An absolute marvel! The Syracuse Cathedral is not only a stunning example of Baroque architecture, but also a place where history truly comes alive. Built directly over the ancient Temple of Athena, it still preserves the original Doric columns, seamlessly integrated into the cathedral walls — a breathtaking fusion of ancient Greek and Christian heritage. Located in Ortigia, the historical heart of Syracuse and an island of extraordinary charm, the cathedral stands as a symbol of a city that was once among the greatest in the ancient world. Long before the Roman Empire flourished — when Rome had only around 50,000 inhabitants — Syracuse was already a thriving metropolis with over 300,000 people! The entire island is a scenery of an amazing past, echoing the grandeur of a civilization that shaped the Mediterranean. A must-visit for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to walk through millennia of human achievement.

Unfortunately, the facade of the building was under renovation and we couldn't see it, but even so, the visit was worth it because inside you can see and touch the original ancient Doric columns from the Temple of Athena. It's quite impressive how parts of this place have survived nearly 2500 years and are so well preserved.

The Cathedral of Syracuse (Cattedrale metropolitana della Natività di Maria) was built over the ancient Temple of Athena (Minerva), erected in 480 BC after the victory of Himera. Parts of the original Doric columns are still visible in the structure, a reminder of the great monument that once stood here. While the Baroque architecture is remarkable, the transformation came at the cost of destroying an ancient Greek temple. It is an important historical site, but the loss of the original sanctuary cannot be ignored.

A stunning church with breathtaking architecture and rich history. The intricate details of the interior, combined with the peaceful atmosphere, make it a must-visit. The blend of ancient and baroque influences is mesmerizing, and the stained glass windows are truly beautiful. Whether you're here for spiritual reflection or historical interest, it's a place that leaves a lasting impression. Highly recommend taking a moment to admire its beauty and serenity.

Beautiful Baroque church with a stunning façade and serene interior. One of the chapels offers a peaceful moment of reflection. Free entry and popular with visitors — definitely worth a stop while exploring Ortigia.

Unique. A cathedral construction with ancient Greek pillars from the temple of Athena mixed with 18th century Rococo! Set in a lovely plaza. Sit with a beer in the restaurant opposite the cathedral and watch humanity wonder by.

Absolutely breathtaking. I went in with curiosity, but I left completely speechless. The Syracuse Cathedral took me by surprise in the best possible way. Truly one of the highlights of my visit to Sicily. I highly recommend it!

One of my favourite places on a trip to Sicily. Quaint, wonderful architecture, excellent market with grocery and stalls to eat. Some of the best cheeses and calamari. Wear running shoes and take lots of water. It is hot - little shade. We parked in Syracuse just before the bridge in a parking lot. Well work not driving on the island.

A must do destination if you are in Sicily.... Its got everything, markets, churches, fab food, quaint streets, ruins, friendly people, swim in the sea, lots of shops with local handmade clothes and other items

Ortigia, Sicily is a captivating place to explore—rich in history, charming streets, and stunning landmarks. We visited in May when the weather was pleasantly warm but not too crowded. Sunscreen, a hat, and comfy walking shoes are essential. It felt very safe, and the local Sicilian cuisine is a highlight—fresh, flavourful, and varied. Booking a guided tour is highly recommended to truly appreciate the history and stories behind the key sights. A perfect blend of culture, food, and relaxation.

Love Ortigia! So many interesting stories, so much to see and do and taste. If you are in Sicily you need to out this on the list. Tip: take one of those convertible piaggio tours, perfect to see everything

Ortigia came as a ‘must do’ when on Sicily from one of my Italian colleagues And we weren’t disappointed It’s a charming little place to lose yourself in small alleys or just follow the coastline When crossing on of the bridges from Siracusa, make sure to say hi to Arcimede’s statue. If you use your eyes you can find some artisinal treasures amongst the mass produced tourist junk. There’s no shortage of places to sit and enjoy food and drinks Where Ortigia is reasonably well kept snd efforts are being made to keep it that way, sadly Siracusa itself doesn’t fare as well. Still, a nice place to spend a day The one thing we absolutely didn’t like was the sudden influx of elderly tourists when a huge cruise liner moored.

The old town is a nice size. A leisure walk to see it all

I loved spending a day at Ortigia for its stunning architecture, warm climate, vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and cultural heritage. It is worth to take the side streets. A truly charming and unforgettable place to explore !

Austere baroque building. Its facade is the most exuberant part of the building. The grave of Bellini is an impressive site and obviously still loved by the locals given the flowers. The music line on the grave talks of the fire dying with his passing. The remnants of the Norman Basilica give an idea of the prior building’s grandeur, it is a great pity it did not survive (given also how beautiful other Norman buildings are) Well worth a short visit!

The Basilica Cattedrale di Sant’Agata is an extraordinary place of worship and a must-see for anyone passionate about culture, religion, and art. Rich in history, it stands as one of Catania’s most iconic landmarks. The cathedral is truly spectacular – both in its impressive exterior architecture and in the beauty and detail of its interior. A visit here leaves you with a deep sense of awe and appreciation for Sicily’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

We visited this Cathedral early in the day, then came back that evening for a classical music event. This is a very special place with a deeply spiritual vibe. The marble work is exquisite and not overly ornate. This is a lovely, lovely place.

The Kathedrale Sant’Agata (Catania Cathedral) is a magnificent piece of architecture that anchors the Piazza del Duomo. The building itself is historically rich and absolutely beautiful, showcasing the striking Baroque style typical of the city. The surrounding garden area is also well-kept and provides a lovely, peaceful contrast to the busy piazza. Top Tip for Photographers: If you want to capture truly amazing pictures of the Cathedral and the piazza, I highly recommend visiting right before or during sunset. The light hitting the facade at that time is spectacular and creates unforgettable views. This is not just a place of worship, but a true architectural and photographic landmark in Catania.

The Basilica Cattedrale di Sant’Agata in Catania is one of the most captivating landmarks in Sicily, offering a powerful blend of history, spirituality, and architectural beauty. Located at the heart of the city’s main square, the cathedral immediately draws attention with its grand Baroque façade, a striking contrast against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Etna. The exterior is richly ornamented yet harmonious, showcasing elegant stonework that reflects both the resilience and the artistic heritage of the region. Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by a spacious and luminous interior. The soaring columns, intricate chapels, and ornate altars create an atmosphere of reverence and serenity. One of the most memorable aspects is the cathedral’s connection to Saint Agatha, the patron saint of Catania. Her presence is deeply woven into the basilica’s identity, and the relics displayed within lend a powerful sense of tradition and devotion. The cathedral also offers a unique insight into the city’s turbulent past. It has been rebuilt multiple times due to volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, and this layered history adds emotional depth to the experience. The blend of Norman, Baroque, and later architectural influences makes wandering through the basilica both visually engaging and historically enriching. Outside, the bustling square provides a lively contrast, making the cathedral a perfect starting point for exploring Catania’s cultural and urban life. Whether you are drawn by faith, history, or architecture, the Basilica Cattedrale di Sant’Agata is a must-see destination that leaves a lasting impression.

Some cathedrals are beautifully painted with fresccos and adorned with gorgeous artefacts. This cathedral was almost simple but had grandeur instead. Absolutely magnificent and that made it beautiful. There catacombs under that I did not visit (3 euros). Beautiful cathedral.

Very beautiful, although the church is starting to show major damages to the outside structure. The inside is not well maintained. See this marvel before time takes it away

It's a good drive 3/4 of the way up then cable car then guided tour. We didn't go further up as a we were in a thunder rain cloud when we got up there so decided to go back as viability was poor. Recommend you go when the weather is good and clear which I am assured it normally is

A must if you’re in Catania! Warm clothes, windbreaker and long pants are recommended for mid October visit. Be aware of the terrain, the climb will get your shoes and clothes ashy, especially descending where there’s “volcanic sand”

Absolutely MUST BE in SICILY! The Iconic Etna Volcano is a place definitely worth visiting. You can take a hike but it's also accessible for everyone by cable car to the high of 2500m, then you can take 4x4 bus to about 2800m. From there rest of the trip have to be done by foot. But views are the reward! Especially when you can look at the clouds below where you are. Best consider going in good weather condition and good visibility to get best of it!

A must do if here! We only went to 2,500 but you can get a bus to 3000 ! Great views and getting cable car up makes it so much easier. Tip don’t wear white sneakers (trainers). Also check weather as can get cold! If we had longer we would have gone to top. Plenty of parking.

Spectacular! Tip; wear a hoody, and maybe also a scarf even, so that you can cover most of your head and face, as there can be very strong winds and the lava sand is quite sharp. Trip to the top is definitely worth it, spectacular views!!

An extraordinary experience in a truly unique place. Our guide, Dario Lo Scavo, proved to be a top-class professional – highly knowledgeable, passionate, and able to present information in an engaging and accessible way. The organization of the tour was flawless, combining strong emotions with valuable insights and unforgettable impressions. Highly recommended for anyone wishing to fully discover the beauty and power of Mount Etna.

Pictures don’t do justice! You’ll have to go on one or the tours to visit Mt Etna to view and experience this iconic volcanoes! At the end of the tour we were taken to an area to view one of the most incredible sunsets! Mount Etna is a dominant feature of northeastern Sicily and the highest active volcano in Europe, reaching an elevation of around 10,900 feet (3,320 meters), although its height can fluctuate due to eruptions.

This city park is really lovely and very pleasant to walk around. There’s plenty of space with wide paths and lots of benches, perfect for sitting and enjoying the surroundings. The greenery is beautiful, a mix of palm trees and regular trees, and in the late afternoon when the sun starts to set, it looks especially nice. There are small fountains with fresh drinking water, several decorative fountains, and even a historic building adding some charm. There’s also an outdoor gym with various exercise machines, though a few of them are slightly damaged. A few small vendors sell ice cream, drinks, or snacks. From some spots in the park you can enjoy views of the rocks and the sea. There’s a playground for children and overall it’s quiet and peaceful, a great place to relax and spend time outdoors.

Wonderful place! Such tall cacti there so beautifully placed. We took a lot of pictures and the sea view was amazing. Totally worth to come back to Taormina.

The park was stunning. We made sure to dine close by so we could wander back after nightfall and experience it in a different light. Darkness didn’t make it unsettling—it felt timeless, almost like walking through a preserved moment in history.

The Villa Comunale, Taormina is a beautiful gem tucked away that we came across while wondering through the city. It is filled with so much history and serenity. It's so calming and quiet. My boys even played on the little playground in the middle of the park. Picturesque ocean views can be seen at certain points and there are tons of photo opportunities throughout. A great family place to just stroll through after the hustle and bustle of the center city to gather ones self before dinner or even early in the morning. This is a must see on your itinerary.

Such a gorgeous and unique place! Definitely visit, you won't regret it. It's absolutely stunning and has amazing views over the bay

Sit here a while. Let the silence speak. In this suspended garden above the sea, even time forgets to hurry, between the sky and the Ionian Sea, Villa Comunale feels like a secret garden dreamt by someone who once loved too deeply. Built upon the vision of Lady Florence Trevelyan, an English noblewoman who found exile and rebirth in Sicily, the park carries her quiet longing — a dialogue between stone, sea, and solitude. Walking through its shaded paths, you move through fragments of her memory: terracotta towers draped in ivy, benches kissed by sun and time, and the whisper of jasmine carried by the wind. Every corner feels like a page of an old diary — half-forgotten, yet still alive. Then, as you reach the terrace, the world opens. Below, the coastline curves like a sleeping myth; beyond, Mount Etna breathes faint smoke against the horizon. You can almost hear the sea humming — a slow, endless hymn that has watched lovers come and go, artists paint and dream, and strangers rediscover the beauty of stillness.

Wonderful park on walking distance fron the center of taormina. Beautiful large trees and lots of cozy benches and shadow places to escape the heating sun. The view is amazing too. There are a few old buildings that remain from the english garden era. Also there is a great playground for the youngsters among us. The park is very well maintained.

⭐ A truly extraordinary site. The Ancient Theatre of Taormina is stunning — its size, location, and breathtaking views make it unforgettable. The setting is fantastic, especially with the sunlight shining through the old stone arches, creating a magical atmosphere. The ticket price is around €14–15 per person, which may feel a bit high, but it’s worth it. We planned to stay for a short visit and ended up spending about an hour, simply because the place is so peaceful and makes you want to linger. A must-see in Taormina. 🌿

Brilliant piece of history and still in use today. Not overly priced and the views are fabulous on a good day. We spent 2 hrs going around in the late afternoon so it wasn't too busy or to the point, too hot. Take a breather and soak up all the beauty that surrounds you and watch as the stage hands prepare for the evenings musical event. So glad we did it and would recommend it to you all while here in this beautiful part of Sicily.

One of the most stunning ancient sites I have ever visited, with fantastic views over the Ionian Sea. We had a guided tour which I would thoroughly recommend as it was really interesting to understand a more in depth history of the site compared to the information boards on site. Our tour guide was an archaeologist and her enthusiasm for the subject was palpable. Great cafe/bar on site with great views and draft beer!

At 16 Euro entry its an absolute steal. If you enjoy history and unbelievably stunning views you cannot go wrong. It is probably the most photographed spot in Sicily. Carved into a natural amphitheatre there was 5400 spectator seats. Built in the Hellenistic style in the 3rd century BC with Later Roman additions. Also referred to as the Greek theatre due to this part of Sicily at the time being a Greek colony.

Another must see place to put onto the list when visiting Sicily. Greek theatre is an atmosphere of ancient ruins with great views over the city of Taormina, Ionian sea and mount Etna. The price was €16 per adult, it was quite quiet, not overcrowded - maybe because we were there right at opening just after 9am, and it was November. But even then weather was great. Fantastic views!

Here's a polished version of your review: This location is truly breathtaking, with its stunning scenery. However, the prices are steep - we paid almost $50 for a family visit that lasted only 15 minutes. On the plus side, there's a convenient free shuttle from the parking area, and the walk to the attraction isn't too long. We visited with a stroller and toddler, and managed okay. Long line to buy tickets, original website didn’t work for me to buy tickets in advance.

Nice to visit just to sit on top of the sitting area and enjoy remarkable view towards the stage with panoramic view on Mount Etna in the background. The designers knew their job back then in 300 BC.

Excellent museum! We were 2 of 20 people allowed in the room at a time to see the Riace bronzes! What a luxury compared to incredibly packed museums in Rome! It is a beautiful, clean building with clear directions to take you through all the artifacts. The Riace Bronzes are incredible and it’s hard to comprehend how perfect & how old they are. Worth a visit while in the lovely city of Reggio Calabria

Really worth the visit, particularly enjoyed the smiling figurines on the bottom floor that seemed to be quite typical of the region. Well curated with a chronological structure starting from oldest period on the top floor to earliest, a lot of well preserved artifacts and historical context on these

Very nice museum. Not big, but having impressive two bronze statues from the Greek period in Calabria. Those are two out of totally five survived statues. Manybother interestibg expinats to be seen. You will need about two hours, maximum three, to explore the museum. However worthwike to visit it!

The bronze statues are amazing. Admission is free on the first weekend of the month. It's an interesting place to learn a little about the history of Reggio Calabria.

The museum is very well organised and it’s very welcoming. There’s a lot to learn. The statues are also very beautiful but it was very disappointing to see they’re in a room with white walls and no context whatsoever (contrary to the rest of the museum). Good thing we read about them before visiting because otherwise we wouldn’t know exactly what we were looking for.

Wow! Seriously impressed! Perfectly organized with clear paths to follow, explanations in Italian and perfect English, touch panel with 3D reconstructions, perfect diffused lighting. Very interesting collection from the Neolithic and Greek time, very informative, I discovered brand new facts I didn't know (i.e. there were lead bullets you would throw with your hand during war). Impressed despite I've visited Louvre, El Prado, British museum, Vatican museum etc. An unexpected gem

Really interesting explosion about other bronze statues. I felt really immersed in the atmosphere. Also at some point I was the only visitor in that room, which felt very cool. They even let me to come back to see Bronzi statues up close due to the fact it was closed for investigation and could see only through glass.

Stromboli will appeal to nature enthusiasts who enjoy the raw beauty of an active volcanic island and are fascinated by geology and natural phenomena. However, it’s not for everyone. I didn’t enjoy the time spent waiting on the island with little to do and the lack of amenities. The mosquitoes were unbearable, and the language barrier on the boat tour made the experience even more challenging. If you prefer comfort and a more dynamic experience, this may not be the best fit.

We took the 5 pm hike to the volcano. It was a 9 km hike with steep sections so be prepared for a 4 hour hike with one hour for viewing. The company provided helmets and headlamps as the return trip was in the dark. It was an amazing hike, but I thought our group was way too large for one guide. There were several other groups out hiking that evening.

June 2023. Took a trip to Stromboli and loved it. If you’re nearby then take an organised trip. You can spend some time in one of the villages and get to see the volcano. Even got to see some small eruptions. What’s not to love.

Stromboli, one of earth’s thriving active volcano and one of the Aeolian islands in Italy, is an absolute gem that left me in awe. The towering volcano, also known as the "Lighthouse of the Mediterranean," provides a breathtaking backdrop that is both impressive and humbling. As the sun sets, the volcano comes to life with spectacular eruptions, casting an enchanting glow over the island. The picturesque villages of San Vincenzo and San Bartolo offer a glimpse into the island's rich history and vibrant culture. For adventure enthusiasts, a hike to the summit of the volcano is an unforgettable experience, providing panoramic views that are simply breathtaking. Stromboli is a hidden paradise that promises a perfect blend of natural wonders, tranquility, and authentic Italian charm. It's a must-visit destination for those seeking an unforgettable island getaway.

We enjoyed a boat trip from Salina island to Stromboli to watch the lave eruptions after sunset. Un fortunately cloud cover over just the top of Stromboli meant we couldn't see anything. Boat trip was nice and we had a couple of swims and a short stop at Panarea. There is nothing much at Stromboli port and poor choices for dinner, however the scenery on the trip is spectacular.

Simply stunning! It's an active volcano, which constantly emits bursts of molten lava, creating a mesmerizing natural spectacle. The island's rugged beauty and unique geology make it a haven for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.Stromboli offers a truly unforgettable experience. We went with Tarnav minicrociera.

It was a great trip to Stromboli to see one of the few active volcanoes in the World. I shuttled from Tropea with my friend Doriyana for an enjoyable boat ride. The journey took 90 minutes, the boat was comfortable and the sea very calm. Upon arrival in San Vincenzo we had 3 hours to walk around the small town and enjoy some excellent food. We found the locals to be very friendly but you need to be careful of their crazy road use on scooters and small trucks. Above us the volcano was rumbling away with smoke bellowing from the top, which the locals just completely ignored. At 1900 we departed the island and went out to the opposite side of the volcano and witnessed the most amazing natural light show ever. The volcano was spewing hot lava in to the night sky and it's a spectacle I will never forget.

The unique beach with white sand under the rock has ceased to exist. The beach is surrounded by picturesque cliffs and offers a breathtaking view of the historic town center and the Santa Maria dell’Isola church.This is an amazing beach. Pretty crowded but all Italian beaches are if they are any good. Water was a little dirty at the shore but once you got out of it it was amazing.The beach is beautiful but be aware it is full of people during peak time.The sea has a bustling color like in the Caribbean. No Garbage and packages in the water. The sand is soft.

A sandy beach with a crystal clear blue sea. If you need some relaxation then the public beach at Tropea will help. It has an amazing backdrop with the old town perched above on the cliffs and the church on top of the rock. There is a beach bar also which sells cold drinks and coffees etc.

The beach in Tropea is undeniably beautiful and the view of the town from the shore is breathtaking. The rock formations are stunning and worth seeing, especially if you can get closer by boat which we did and it was much more enjoyable. However, the sheer number of people can be overwhelming and for me it was just too much. If you don’t mind the crowds you will probably love it but if you prefer peace and space there are plenty of other beaches nearby that are far less crowded. Because of the mass of people my rating is lower which is a shame given how beautiful this place really is.

A really unique beach with soft white sand tucked under the cliffs where the town of Tropea sits. The views are amazing, with dramatic cliffs all around, and there’s even a beach inside a big cave! You’ll see lots of people cliff jumping too. The water near the shore was a bit murky, but once you swim out, it’s crystal clear and beautiful. It can get super crowded during peak times and really hot since there’s not much shade—definitely bring sun protection. Still, it’s a stunning place and totally worth a visit.

The place is amazing! So vivid and so peaceful at the same time. And the water is just perfect, clear and refreshing. The people are very friendly and nice. It’s a great place to be with friends or family, but it’s also a place for a wonderful solo experience. 🥳

Very wonderful place! Beautiful white good beach. Convenient descent to the water. The sea has a bustling color like in the Caribbean. No Garbage and packages in the water. The sand is soft. View on the background of the white cliff and the sea: a great surroundings for unusual photos! In the evening you can see Stromboli volcano! I recommend this beach for all who love silence and clear sea! It is unfortunate, but at 7.30 am on April 7, 2023, part of the island fell ashore into the sea. The unique beach with white sand under the rock has ceased to exist. I hope the local authorities have enough resources to restore and strengthen the coast in this place!

Very populated but great water and view

Quite an amazing representation of of The Christ, welcoming all people and leading fishers back to safe shores. Beautiful views of land, sand, and sea. The stories behind the its origins are also fantastic. Parking a short distance away for a short, hilly walk or shuttle ride. Recommend checking hours that 6 shuttle runs.

For the hikers out there. Google maps might recommend you to take the road, but there is a walkable path up there. The path rail is broken in a few places but the path is wide. Scary but somewhat safe (I'm the chicken here, my wife was fine). We crossed a mountain biker coming down.

€1.50 per person to enter paid to the Municipality of Maratea, price includes parking in the car park at the top and join the minibus up to the top. 3min drive. Try to arrive early in the day or late in the afternoon, due to the heat.

Truly amazing experience! It's a must see in Maratea, the views are spectacular. Do go to the town center to have a caffe, pastry, gelato and shopping!

Beautiful place. We took a shuttle bus from Maratea main square which costs €0.60 per person. Worth visiting.

Very recommended at sunset. It’s very colossal and splendid!!! There are also little souvenir shops and a bar if you wanna grasp a drink for enjoying the sunset!!! There is also a little bus that is gonna take you from the parking to it if you don’t want to walk

A challenge to get to but well worth it to view this statue and gor the views it provides of the sea and countryside. You have to mark 1 kM away and then have to take a bus to the statue. The bus is €1.5 and parking is €5.

Really lovely castle and free to visit. Worth day visit or night. Nice small beach around with 3 lidos near by.

It is the highlight of the village and it has free entry. Ok, you still must get a ticket even if it is free from the person just inside the gates. We visited in October and the castle closed at 7pm. Closing time changes depending on the month/season, so please check. The castle is out on a rock and is connected by a small spit. It is impressive even just walking out there. We went in the evening and the light made for good photos. There is a drawbridge to cross to get to the main part of the castle. Inside they have made a glass floor so you can see the foundations and the original Greek parts of the castle. There is a hard to see fresco that is the only one remaining in the church ruins. We couldn’t go up the tower but you get high enough in the walls for very good views of the village. We spent more than 30 mins there.

Unfortunately the tower part was closed off, so it couldn't be visited. There were also signs of a video room, but that wasn't available either. This was a bit of a downer, because it was quite a drive to get here, and this landmark was on my shortlist. On the plus side, admission was free of charge. The structure looks very imposing from outside, and the access bridge "between waters" adds to the building's uniqueness.

This place is so cool, we unexpectedly ended up needing to stay in the town for a couple of nights and came across the castle during an evening walk as the sun was setting. As it appeared to still be open we wandered in and walked around - it’s free entry but they still give you a ticket at the gate. We were the only ones there, it was awesome

What an amazing castle, stunning views and sunsets. Very well kept and informative and when we went there was no charge.

Not in a good shape. The castle is worn down and everything seems very rotten. Entrance is free, but the should take money to restore the staircases and the castle. Only half of the area can be visited, the rest is barred of. Views from the top are nice though.

This impressive Argonese castle built on top of a an Ancient Greek castle is well worth the visit if you're in this part of Calabria. I've visited here on three different occasions and even stayed in the town of Le Castella for a few days nine years ago. Admission is free and the views at spectator.

More than wonderful!! Very preserved, incredible paintings and art all around Certosa. For me, much better than the vatican museum, because besides beatiful it is a quiet and peacefull place.

Awesome monastery in the town of Padula in Salerno province. It's a standing evidence of remarkable architecture. It's huge and spread across thousands of square meter area. It also encompasses a history artifact museum where artifacts from 2nd century B.C. are put on display. These artifacts were discovered from near by areas like sala consilina during excavation around 1950s. The town and the view along with this monastery is also remarkable. The town is located on the downhill and provides a picturesque view when viewed from the bottom of the hill and also the monastery which is located at the bottom of the hill and the beginning of the town. If you are in this region and you are looking for an interesting place to visit, this must be in your list.

Lovely day out in stunning medieval Italian abbey in the countryside. Easy to reach from motorway just 1h south of Salerno. Lots of space to run around for children. Complete of its own little archeological museum with lovely greek and italic artefacts from the region. Trattoria degli ulivi nearby offers a lovely and cheap meal after all the walking around

The Certosa di San Lorenzo is the biggest cartheuse in the world. Inside, you first get introduced to monastery life by a walk through the cellars where you see multiple video sequences explaining everything you need to know. Afterwards, entering the main monastery, you get greeted by the first of three cloisters. Through the church, kitchens, meeting rooms and chapels, it all leads up to the highlight of the visit, the monumental cloister, which is bigger than a football field. Throughout the cartheuse, there are many interesting artworks and stone cuttings for the people who care. Overall, the Certosa is a must visit if you are in the region.

A beautiful place that we visited in about two hours! All spectacular from the quiet cloister, the library with the floor covered with Vietri sul Mare ceramic tiles, the church decorated with precious marble, the large kitchen, the spiral staircase, the Sala delle Campane, of the Chapter and the Treasury, the various Chapels, the largest Cloister in the world with the Carthusian Cells really a marvel !!! Despite its majesty and beauty, the place has lost that mystical and sacred dimension typical of religious places. There is a large outdoor parking cost € 3.00. In the courtyard you can admire the beautiful seventeenth-century façade in Baroque style where there is the ticket office together with the bookshop point, which is usually located at the end of the route. We wanted to buy a little book but finished in Italian language! Besides the fact that it is a unique place and therefore absolutely to visit but it could really does much more!

Carthusian monasteries are of interest to me (due to my job) so obviously I enjoyed the visit but my family loved it too. It's a well preserved example even though the monks are no longer there.

This gem was a great experience, I wish we had more time to visit everything. It deserves s visit even if short on time but plan at least 2 or 3 hours for a more relaxed experience.

This was our second time visiting this water park and it would be our last time. The staff are very rude. I was not allowed to go on the slide with my phone and the cover. I asked why some people were allowed to go on the slide with the goggles, the guy started to shout at me that these were the rules and he wouldn't explain the reason. Lack of education and politeness. I wouldn't recommend this place!!! I attached two pictures of the two staff.

Mid park. Wasn’t the best I would say. I just have one big complaint that I really hated. When I slide down any slide, my back gets hurt and red because where the slide parts connect there’s a slight edge! Also do NOT take the white steep slide. It’s one where there’s two next to each other and it has a green roof. That one was PAINFUL!!! It was like sliding on a cheese grater!!!

Very fun place, but your small child has to slide on her own, you can’t even help her get up the stairs. Also I wasn’t allowed to sit near the pool for some reason like in the picture 😀 The foods were awful. They heat cold food up and it tastes like it’s old. Also they allowed smoking near the childrens pool which was disgusting!

Great day with the family. Wasn’t so busy on Monday in June. Was no hot water in the shower. My only complaint 👌

Very nice park! There is a lot of attractions and places to eat. Price for the entrance go from 18 to 23 eur depending in which season you go. Prices for food and drinks inside are honest prices: a sandwich with Calabria sausage+soft drink 40ml was 5,50 eur. Coffee (espresso) 1 euro. It was Friday, end of July and it was good amount of people... Lines for the slides were very short (max 10 minutes) and there was the possibility to do slides also note than once. It is advised to go during the week (mon-fri) or not in August, otherwise there is the risk that the lines for the slides are too long and it is gonna be difficult to enjoy the park. There is both a good area for children and a good area for adults. The staff working in the park is young, very kind and helpful.

Fantastic place. Clean, great rides, good fun

Great Aqua park, staff are all very friendly and safety conscious at all times , get place to visit for all ages Some local supermarkets offer half ticket vouchers, but are limited availability. On site food restaurant will not disappoint you, the food is is good. Enjoy your visit

The castle itself is very impressive, but everything around it simply ruins the experience. Parking is paid, as is the shuttle. There's a con man standing by the free restroom trying to take money for admission. After parking and the shuttle, there's a ticket to the castle itself, which costs 10 euros for a tour inside the castle, which is actually quite small; it takes no more than 15 minutes to explore.

Amazing castle, stunning to look at, but not really much to see inside. Reachable only via rather questionable roads. Still a definite must see when you are in the area.

Amazing Swabian castle dating back to about 1290! It is surrounded by a forest and you only need a few hours to see everything. Bring some good hiking shoes, unless you are able to pay for parking close to the castle. We went during the week and it was not very busy. There are a few great videos inside the castle, which stays amazingly cool in the summer heat!!

We went in early November so it wasn’t too crowded. We parked in the nearby private lot for €5 but I think if you park in the lot ~2km away it’s free. The museum was great. Text panels in Italian and English and braille. Video and tactile exhibits. Audio guide in multiple languages available at an extra cost. Bathrooms on the premises. A restaurant nearby as well. Can be seen in its entirety in under an hour.

Super interesting octagonal castle from the 1240s built by Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor, Hohenstaufen of Swabia and King of Sicily. Example of Medieval architecture located on a hill some kilometers away from Andria overseeing a large plain. Castel del Monte is surely one of Apulia’s symbols: a medieval fortress erected in the 13th century on the western Murge plateau on the outskirts of the beautiful town Andria, along the Adriatic coast of southern Italy. Built on a hill 540 metres above sea level, the fortress of Castel del Monte in Andria is considered a brilliant example of medieval architecture, reflecting the humanistic culture and vast education of its founder, Holy Roman Emperor and King of Sicily. The octagonal castle is surrounded by an octagonal tower at each corner. Mysterious and an almost inhumanly exact geometric shape, some theories claim that the octagon represented the union of the circle and the square. The octagonal layout gives Castel del Monte the configuration of an elegant stone crown, and is present in all the castle's rooms. There are eight rooms on the ground floor, and eight on the first floor. There are eight towers surrounding the building, all with an octagonal layout and each arranged on one of its eight corners. This obsessive recurrence of the number eight makes the fortress of Castel del Monte an esoteric place that has fascinated the best scholars for centuries. But the fortress has more mysteries for you to slowly discover during your visit. The building is accessed through the entrance portal, a large Arab-style arch with a Greco-Roman tympanum and Gothic double-arched windows. The light colour of the limestone and white marble façades also characterises the interior, now stripped of the decorations that once adorned it. The light illuminating the ground floor comes from eight single-arched windows located on each of the eight sides of the floor plan. The same number of windows can be found on the upper floor, with one small difference: seven windows are double arched, while only one, that facing Andria, is triple arched. You really cannot miss to visit it if you are in Apulia. #castle #fortress #apulia #italy #monument

Compared to other castles in Europe, this is rather lackluster and unimpressive. Unless you have nothing planned near Bari, I would skip a visit.

Take the local guide Maria Zingaro! She will guide you through the importance of this monument. What was ment to be and it's very important history for mankind, not only Italian. The details I leave for local guide

The castle are still a functional and working marine barracs, so you have to take the free tour. Otherwise no entry. It didn't work with our schedule

Astonishing scenes of old and new. The Ponte Girevole (swing bridge ) opens for ships and connects too seas. Castello has free tours but in Italian only

Entry is only by the free guided tour at set times during the day and evening. It is still an Italian Navy facility therefore the restrictions. It is still is worth viewing from the outside. We couldn’t wait 2 hours for the next tour so we had to skip it. Definitely would do it next time.

A very nice visit at the castle. A navy official provides a guided tour for free (in Italian) every hour. The tour gives information over the history of Taranto and the castle. I found it very informative and entertaining. I would recommend doing it if you are visiting Taranto. Also I was amazed that by the sunset, they displayed the Italian flag with lights on one of the sides of the Costello while playing some anthem (I wish I knew what was it), I loved that moment.

A beautiful castle belongs to the Italian navy, but an unpleasant surprise awaited us, you must have booked a tour guide, that's the only way you can enter...!!! It doesn't even matter so it's worth a visit. Highly recommended.

Very interesting history and friendly staff! Visit with the group is free and scheduled.

We wanted to visit the castle, but the experience at the reception was rather unpleasant. The information provided was very insufficient. We asked for a tour in English, but it was not available, and they also refused to let us join the Italian-language group.

We were able to visit at sunset and it was so beautiful. I cannot believe the colour of the stone. What a beautiful church.

Cathedral is one of the best places to see in the region. There is a lot of history, monuments to see. Unfortunately you can not take a guide inside. It’s located in lovely area, near the park and the port. The liturgy are normally about 10 pm. Inside is a little bit cold, but it’s normal like in this kind of buildings. You can go also to the underground.

Basilica at probably the most beautiful place in the world and a gem of a structure

Another great place to visit. Good place for eating fish and city views. Enjoy coffee. Do something else and avoid the cappuccino. Italians do not drink it after 1500. Get an espressino. Take a wild side around the Basilica.

The Catholic Cathedral of Maria de Santos is famous in Trani for being made of local pinkish-white marble and its majestic presence by the sea.

A beautifully restored church — definitely worth stepping inside. Please be respectful, keep noise to a minimum, and avoid taking photos. It’s wheelchair accessible, and entry was free when we visited. We enjoyed stopping by during an evening walk along the waterfront, followed by some gelato — a lovely experience overall.

Beautiful cathedral. Definitely worth a visit 👍

The place is a paradise but is covered in cigarettes stubs and rubbish. We collected a 70L bags of rubbish in 20minutes. Sad and enraging.

The local restaurant explore the visitors. If you want to stay on the sand you have to pay a lot of money for umbrellas leaving no option. They took all the sand area over leaving a tiny bit outside for free. Ridiculous Exploitation,exploitation and exploitation

Awful business. You'll have to pay 6€ for the parking. Then 30€ for two beds. And you'll all be parked like pigs in a farm. Please avoid going there at all cost, they don't deserve your money and the beach should belong to everybody and be public. Period.

Prices too high for everything. Two uncomfortable beds and umbrella 40 €, very close to each other. Overloaded bar, dirty toilets. No comfort. Fortunately, sea is clean and refreshing.

Favourite beach in Salento! Not too small, not too big :)

A great beach with water so clear that some girls make fake videos from the Maldives for Instagram. 😂

Beautiful beach with crystalline waters,carribian like,a splendor

I honestly can’t stress enough how important it is to book this wonderful tour if you are planning a trip to Alberobello! Especially if the wonderful Mimo is your tour guide. He is funny, informative and educational and makes for a very insightful and informative tour ending in visiting an actual Trulli house doubling as a museum then a perfectly prepared lunch served in a secret garden whilst being serenaded by a beautiful live music! Epic experience!

Great and experienced tour guiding company, they have a house museum of their own.

nice

(Translated by Google) Beautiful city already visited twice, you always discover something new. Anyone who has time and is in Puglia should take a look at the trulli in Alberobello. (Original) Wunderschöne Stadt bereits zum 2 mal besichtigt, man entdeckt immer wieder etwas neues. Jeder der Zeit hat und sich in Apulien befindet sollte sich die Trullis in Alberobello ansehen.

(Translated by Google) Pleasant, uncrowded during the week in June (Original) Agréable peu fréquenté en semaine de juin

(Translated by Google) Very beautiful and characteristic, one of the most beautiful cities in Puglia (Original) Molto bello e caratteristico , una delle più belle come città pugliesi

(Translated by Google) Wonderful experience (Original) Meravigliosa esperienza

Not the most ornate cathedral I've seen but the crypt underground is amazing. Unearthed buildings that were there before the cathedral with lavis mosaic floors

This is a jewel not to be missed. One of the most amazing sites in all of Italy.

9€ for a combined ticket to the church and museum - well worth it. The building is beautiful and the crypt with the mummy and relics is super interesting. The archaeological site underground is very cool too.

Beautiful cathedral. Too shame that, like most religious places in Italy, they find a way to charge people. The main church is free but you need to pay to visit the underground crypt €3-€7 Lots of other churches in the same area that are free

The crypt is wonderful. Very relaxing and the ruins are quite interesting.

A very beautiful historical church, a must visit if first time in Bari.

Romanesque gem in Bari’s Old Town. Elegant white stone façade with a beautiful rose window and carved lintel of mythical beasts. Inside, three naves divide into 16 slender columns and arcades—simple yet powerful. The crypt holds the relics of Saint Sabinus and the ancient Madonna Odegitria icon. Quiet, spiritual, and steeped in history: a must‑visit beyond the more crowded Basilica. 

I visited this place recently and it was amazing!I saw saturn and the moon from a telescope that was on top and it was amazing.The view is stupendous. The people that worked there were very nice!Overall I had a great experience.

Iconic tower of the Salento western coast. Beautiful and well preserved.

This is maybe one of the most amazing towers to visit on the southern side of Puglia, the view on top is priceles as is the fresh breeze relieving from the summer hotness!

Is was the and of may, so it was not open, but still it was worth it walk over there and fight with mosquitoes 🦟

I came to visit this tower twice during my vacation. The first time it was closed to only private visits, but to compensate they made a really interesting show in collaboration with the local dance club, I quite enjoyed it. The lesson I learned here is that one should always inform him/herself about the location to visit. It's not too bad that you can't enter, the tower is still quite impressive from the outside too and at night it gets illuminated. During the day you can also chill on the small open pond there and enjoy the sea.

One of the many incredibly well preserved watchtower that dot Apulia coast.

EN: Exciting experience going inside this medieval tower used in past to defend local people against Saracens. The view from the top is really nice IT: Bellissima. E' possibile visitare l'interno di questa antica torre di difesa contro i saraceni e perfino salire su in cima per godersi un bel panorama ES: Hermosa! Antigua torre de defensa contra los sarracenos hoy abierta a todos para visitarla adentro y subir hasta la parte superior desde donde se puede disfrutar un panorama precioso

Amazing experience! We took the train from Bari and a bus from the train station + a 30 min walk from Fasano, as there was no shuttle bus during weekdays, but was totally worth it. We did not have a car, and were planning to take the bus, but we were given a spare car, which made the experience unforgettable.

Amazing experience! One literally feeds giraffes amd zebras out of the car window. Animals are so near that it cannot be compared with any other zoo. Bring 3-5 kg Carrots and buy peanuts for the monkeys! Totally worth it for any age.

The safari tour was great but the rest more la la.. Rest is the second part of walking tour including a funny train and many closed attractions. Also they forced me to pay extra parking 4 EUR although I paid a family ticket 140 EUR and they know the tour ends with parking and proceeding by foot once through the safari with the car🤣 . Pretty low and embarrassing 👎 But!! The camels are over cool. 🐫

Loved it! Safari from the car was definitely the best part! Bring carrots with you, animals will love it. It can get slow and crowded in the season, so have patience and enjoy the ride. Bring water with you cause it can take 2 hours to just go through the first part in car. You don’t have to buy tickets in advance, you can do it at the gate from your car when you arrive.

Great time spent with the family in the Safari and the park! The park is huge, you can see the animals very close, pet them! The animals are well looked after, there is no bad smell at all! Their territory is large, it looks like the animals are happy in the park! I highly recommend it!

Me and my family had a great time! Every penny was worth it :). The animals seemed happy and freely ran around the park. After our family went through the safari we left without knowing how much is left there,so make sure you don’t make the same mistake! But even if you do,you can come back the same day with the same tickets and you can make sure you don’t miss any more fun! 5 stars❤️

It's well managed and unique (for Europe) place to see lots of exotic animals considerably free in a wide space from the close but safe approach of your car. There are many areas that you are allowed to touch and feed the animals (please don't give them junk or human food, you can buy carrots, peanuts etc. specially for them at the entrance) and areas where you need to stay in your car at all times but it's all worth it. The animals looks like the staff take good care of them which is very important for me considering other similar places or zoo parks in Europe. It's really family/kids friendly place. In the pedestrian area you can find other animals and different zones like reptiles and insects, lake with birds and monkeys where you can have a paid boat ride, there is a rail car (zoo metro) which you can take from one zone to another, a special monkey zone which you can visit with a caged safari style truck and feed peanuts to the animals through a special holes. There is an amusement park in the pedestrian area where you can find food and drinks and have some fun before you take off. Overall a great place for kids and families, we had amazing time there.

Pretty but... I can't help feel that Polignano is a victim of its own "beauty". Certainly worth a visit, but I felt I kept on waiting for it to deliver, and it never did. It does have an impressive setting, built above and into the shallow cliffs, and it had the typical bars and restaurants to enjoy, with a "new" viaduct where an old Roman one used to be, above THE beach - pebble and crowded, so for viewing from a distance rather than enjoying as a beach. You also run out of things to experience pretty quickly, so give it an hour for a coffee, beer or glass of wine, and move on! Free parking up by the station.

A special place to visit! The tall narrow houses clinging to the cliffs with the crashing waves below. Let your eyes soak up the beautiful clear Adriatic sea. Walk the narrow passages in centro storico. Experience the poetry of the little village. Dive back to Roma times.

What a charming place to stay for a long weekend. Polignano a Mare looks like it is straight out of a movie set. This part of Italy (the heel) does not suffer over-tourism so I found it peaceful. The small town is very eye catching, as it's perched precariously on steep sea cliffs. The houses have flower laden balconies and are separated by tight alleyways. You really feel like you are stepping back in time by decades. Your standard run of the mill restaurant here, would be a top class Italian restaurant at home, and the prices are great. There is a statue here dedicated to their favourite son - the famous Italian singer, composer, and actor Domenico Modugno. There is not much English spoken here, so you are better off making the effort to learn some Italian words. If you are in the Bari area, I would advise coming here for a day trip at least, it's that special here.

A very nice small city with narrow streets and fresh sea air. If you dare, you can try swimming down at the rocks because this area is always full of visitors and tourists. While walking at the streets don't miss the beautiful sea view!

I had the pleasure of visiting the historic center of Polignano a Mare at night, and it was truly breathtaking. The area was bustling with tourists, yet it maintained a charming, intimate atmosphere. The streets were lined with numerous eateries, offering delicious gelato and pizza, perfect for a late-night snack. The art on the walls and light installations added a magical touch, making every corner a visual delight. The small churches scattered throughout the area were adorned with stunning religious art, a testament to the town’s rich cultural heritage. Walking through the narrow alleys, I discovered hidden gems like the Vicolo della Poesia, where poetry adorns the walls, and the picturesque Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II. Polignano a Mare’s historic center is a must-visit, especially at night when it transforms into a vibrant yet serene haven. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply enjoying local cuisine, this place has something for everyone. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore its beauty and charm!

If the weather is good, it will be even more beautiful! It's beautiful here

Not a bad city centre but very busy even in the off season.

Absolutely breathtaking Baroque cathedral in the heart of Lecce. The façade is richly detailed, with statues, symbols, and elegant columns. Inside, the atmosphere is serene and spiritually uplifting. A must-visit landmark in Puglia. Un capolavoro del barocco leccese, da non perdere!

A beautiful square with connecting little streets. This church and its surroundings are truly stunning. However, tickets are required here, which is a bit disappointing, as one wouldn’t expect it for this type of monument. Moreover, they are sold on the other side of the square.

Going into the crypt is a must. Seeing the skeletal remains is a bit scary. The best value is the 11€ ticket that gets you into the Basilica (7€ just for this), Cathedral (this one) and 2 other churches as well. Now that is worth it and it is like a treasure hunt by following the map and getting you around the old city.

Baroque cathedral basilica with transept build in 1669 by architect Giuseppe Zimbalo. Inside cathedral entrance to 12th century crypt with 92 columns. Tickets available in Palazzo del Seminario-11€, with tower 21€.

Gorgeous. Such a lovely place to visit, so quaint and relaxing and the architecture and buildings is stunning.

Beautiful. Download the app for the interesting story. Stunning carvings and especially loved the crypt.

Impressive cathedral, interesting marble work and ceiling. The crypt was also quite impressive.

Beautiful beaches. During the off season we were almost the only ones as you basically need a bike to get to the ones more east. Unfortunately there is a lot of plastic everywhere but you cannot blame the national park for that...

Our favourite beach in Ostuni area. White sand and beautiful sea, we didnt witness any plastic garbage on the beach.

Interesting natural reserve with lots of animals, like birds and snakes.

This is a fine example of a conservation area and yet very accessible to the public . A shuttle bus service is provided from the main parking area. There are different zones of protection , no fishing , sailing and water sport areas and swimming is not encouraged in some areas . The areas are clearly designated and the public seem to be cooperating. There is a turtle hospital not open to the public due to stress that this would cause the animals. There are long scenic , tranquil paths to walk but beware of the erosions and danger in some of the cliff tops. The beaches and bays are a haven for wildlife and the public alike this place deserves more publicity but maybe its better left to the public to discover how wonderful it is?

Sorry but calling Torre Guaceto a natural reserve is a joke... The beach is dirty, with microplastics and other waste, and due to the shallow water the dirt remains in the water almost up to the buoys. Beach is overcrowded in August as could be expected, yet it has only two toilets and not even a shower. Booking online or not makes no difference: the parking is huge and accepts anyone who pays the 5€ at the entrance, and then everyone queues up for the shuttle. But the small „train“ doesn’t bring you to the beach, instead it drops you off some 700m away... and even in peak periods there is only one "train". Queues under the scorching sun are very long for both journeys (wait at least 20 minutes). The sea is ok, but neither better nor worse than the other coves along the coast. Don‘t waste your time & money here!

Just beautiful, a bit of everything white beachside, grotto's, ruins. Love that so much of this area from Bari on down the coast isn't the over devolved beaches of Spain and France.

- It's a wonderful place for a good walk along the seaside, the sea is simply amazing, only downside the rubbish coming from the sea get stuck on the beaches and doesn't get removed because "it's a reserve". - Posto fantastico per una giornata di mare immersi nella selvaggia macchia mediterranea, è un peccato però che i rifiuti portati dalle mareggiate non vengano rimossi

📣ATTENTION 📣 DONT PARK THERE, OUR BELONGINGS GOT STOLEN FROM THE CAR !

20 June 2023. None of the machines work and all covered up so good to park here without paying! Good luck! Also no fees entering the cave of poetry as no attendants present either

Stuff got stolen from the boot/trunk which wasn’t visible. They block or copy your key remotely and take any valuables whilst you’re away. Don’t keep any valuables in the car!!! Don’t open the boot whilst in the parking lot!!!

Expensive car park but convenient for Grotto della Poesia. 1.80€ per hour paid at the start of your stay. No shade so bring a sun shield. We didn’t end up parking here but drove south and parked on the street for free in the shade only 5 minutes further from the Grotto to walk. For reference we stayed at the Grotto della Poesia for 4 hours swimming and sunbathing (did not visit archeological site).

People blending into the crowd and hanging out here to break into cars and rummage through bags etc. if you come here come without anything in your car. To be honest, not worth the visit- locals treat their sites like trash, broken glass, cigarette butts and vandalism on the historic artifacts.

Someone broke into our car and stole some of our belongings. Please don’t park here if you have anything valuable in the car.

Just another way trying to make the most money of tourist. >1,50€/ Hour in the middle of nowhere is just ridiculous.

Some great walks around headlands, lovely restaurants, easy bus/taxi to old town.

Beautiful place at night.

This is a great place to spend a sunny day and it is a must to enjoy the sunset at least once at Sunset Beach in Lapad. Lots of food options in the promenade or local hotels and at the DOC centre, good shopping spot with large grocery store, DM, a bakery, restaurants, and cafes. The best part is walking from Orsan to Sunset beach even all the way to the Palace Hotel for an amazing seawall and beach experience in the heart of Dubrovnik! Best swimming option in the area with a variety of free and paid for experiences.

So close yet so far. Lapad is beautiful place to stay and explore without the busyness and expense old town. Beautiful Riva, sunsets and Views.

Lapad is a nice town with a bit high society vibes. It also has a tennis court and really good restaurants like Tutto-bene restaurant and Mexicana Canteena!

Lovely place near old town and Gruž Lapad is a large peninsula (not an island ! as some websites claim) situated just outside of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, on its Western side (check its location on the map). The distance to the airport is about 22 kilometres (14 miles approx) and to the Old Town is about 4 km (2.5 miles). Getting there: To reach the peninsula from the Old City you can take a bus from Pile Station  – Libertas bus number 2, number 6 or 4 (see a map of public transport). The ride takes anything between 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the area of the suburb you are going to.

Great views!