Top 100 best museums in Italy

The Bourbon Tunnel (Galleria Borbonica), Tunnel Borbonico or Bourbon Gallery is an ancient underground passage that was constructed to connect the Royal Palace to military barracks in Naples. Presently the tunnels are open for tours, and contains decades of debris, including vintage cars and a disca

The Museo delle Scienze, also known as MUSE, is a science museum located in Trento, Italy. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore various scientific concepts and phenomena in an engaging and interactive environment.

The Vatican Museums, situated in Vatican City, are recognized as some of the largest museums globally. They were constructed by the Roman Catholic Church during the Renaissance period and are renowned for housing a vast collection of significant sculptures. These museums offer a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and artistic heritage of the Catholic Church.

The Uffizi Gallery in Florence holds a huge collection of valuable works mostly from the Italian Renaissance. The building was designed by Giorgio Vasari in 1560 for Cosimo I de' Medici, the second Duke of Florence, to house administrative offices and the state archive. Over the time, the Medici fam

The National Railway Museum of Pietrarsa is situated near the Naples–Portici railway. The museum is housed in the former 'Bourbon works' Officine di Pietrarsa, which was established in 1840 to build steam engines for ships and boilers for locomotives. This historical site offers a unique insight into the industrial history of Italy and the development of railway technology.

The National Railway Museum of Pietrarsa, located near the Naples–Portici railway, is a significant historical site. It was originally the 'Bourbon works' Officine di Pietrarsa, established in 1840 to manufacture steam engines for ships and boilers for locomotives. This museum offers a unique insight into the history of Italian industrialization and the development of railway technology.

Castel Sant'Elmo is a medieval fortress that sits atop Vomero Hill, adjacent to the Certosa di San Martino, and offers a panoramic view of Naples, Italy. Its strategic location makes it a significant landmark in the city. The castle's name, 'Sant'Elmo', is derived from a 10th-century church dedicated to Sant'Erasmo, which was later shortened to 'Ermo' and then altered to 'Elmo'.

The 17th century Villa Borghese Pinciana, built for Cardinal Scipione Borghese as his suburban manor, is located in the Borghese gardens. It houses the Borghese Gallery with a spectacular collection of renaissance and baroque paintings and sculptures by the most famous artists. You can admire the pa

Ostia, located on the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea in ancient Latium, Italy, was an important port city for ancient Rome and is believed to be one of its first colonies. This historical significance makes it a fascinating destination for those interested in the history of the Roman Empire.

Originally built in the second century AD by the Roman emperor Hadrian as his mausoleum, in the 14th century, it was decided that the building should be turned into a castle and a special corridor was added in order to connect the castle with St. Peter’s Basilica. Today, the castle serves as a museu

The National Museum of Cinema (Museo Nazionale del Cinema) is an Italian motion picture museum, that is housed in the Mole Antonelliana tower in Turin. The collections includes pre-cinematographic optical devices (magic lanterns), earlier and current film technologies, stage items from old Italian m

Hadrian's Villa, also known as Villa Adriana, is a significant historical site located in Tivoli, 25 kilometers east of Rome. The villa is situated 107 meters above sea level, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. This ancient Roman imperial villa is a testament to the grandeur of the Roman Empire and offers a glimpse into the life of Emperor Hadrian.

The Doge's Palace, also known as Palazzo Ducale, is a significant historical building in Venice. It has served various functions throughout history, including as a government building, a courthouse, and the residence of the Doge, the ruler of Venice. Its architectural style is predominantly Gothic, and it is located next to St. Mark's Basilica in St. Mark's Square.

St Mark's Basilica, situated in the heart of St Mark's Square, is a renowned example of Byzantine architecture. This cathedral is one of the most iconic church buildings in the city, showcasing the rich history and architectural prowess of Venice.

Leonardo da Vinci's mural painting, 'The Last Supper', is a significant cultural asset located in the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, Italy. Often incorrectly referred to as a fresco, this masterpiece was created using a 'dry' mixed technique on plaster. The painting depicts the biblical episode of Jesus' Last Supper with his Apostles before his arrest and crucifixion. It is one of the most well-known and valued cultural assets in the world.

Built by the Scaliger family in the 14th century, this military castle once served as Verona's main defense point. It is a marvelous and functional gem of Gothic architecture which now houses a history museum. You can easily spend a few hours just wandering around and taking in the splendid views.

The Egyptian Museum of Turin (Museo Egizio) is an archaeological museum in Turin that is dedicated to Egyptian archaeology and anthropology. The museum houses one of the largest collections of Egyptian antiquities, with over 30,000 artefacts. Highlight in the collection of the Egyptian Museum of Tur

The Valley of the Temples, known as Valle dei Templi in Italian, is an archaeological site located in Agrigento, Sicily, Italy. This site, originally known as Akragas in Ancient Greek, is a significant attraction for those interested in history and archaeology.

Palazzo Madama, located in Rome, is the building where the Senate of the Italian Republic is housed. This historic building is situated within the complex of streets known as the Trident. The history of the current Senate building began in the late 15th century, during the pontificate of Pope Sixtus IV, when Rome was transitioning from a medieval city to a modern one.

Literally "Holy Field", this peaceful cemetery holds the sacred soil from Golgotha. Built in the 13th century, it served as a burial place for wealthy Pisans. It is enveloped by beautiful arcades with many frescoes. Enjoy a tranquil stroll and marvel at imposing funerary monuments, historical sarcop

The National Automobile Museum (Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile) is an automobile museum in Turin that holds a collection of almost 200 cars, representing 80 automobile brands from 8 countries. The museum is situated in a building from 1960 that has three floors. The collection of The National Autom

The Accademia Gallery in Florence was founded in 1784 and holds Michelangelo's masterpiece - the statue of David. Apart from this famous sculpture, it holds other artworks by Michelangelo and a collection of Renaissance paintings. The marble statue of the Biblical hero David was created between 1501

The Milan Natural History Museum, founded in 1838, is housed in a 19th-century building located in the Indro Montanelli Garden, near the historic city gate of Porta Venezia. This location not only offers a rich historical context but also a serene environment for visitors to explore the museum's vast collections.

Come and see what remained of a Roman theater which foundation dates back to the 1st century BC. It is also a great place to get some panoramic views of the city. In summer, the theater serves as an open venue for concerts and other shows. There is also an archeological museum here, offering its vi

The National Archaeological Museum of Naples (Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli) is an hisotry museum in Naples mostly known for its ancient Roman remains. The collection the museum holds however, includes artifacts from Greek, Roman and Renaissance times, and especially Roman artifacts from ne

The Palazzo Pubblico is a significant civil monument in Siena, with its construction dating back to the late 13th century and completion in the mid-14th century. The building is a prime example of Sienese Gothic architecture. It is situated at the lower end of the Piazza del Campo, Siena's central square, which is also the venue for the biannual Palio horse race.

The Palazzo Grimani of Santa Maria Formosa is a state museum situated in the Castello district of Venice, near Campo Santa Maria Formosa. It can be accessed by land from Ruga Giuffa. The water entry, which was frequently used in ancient times, is located on the San Severo canal.

The Basilica of Santa Chiara, located in Assisi, Umbria, Italy, is a church dedicated to Saint Clare of Assisi. This historic site is a significant place of worship and a testament to the life and works of Saint Clare. Visitors can explore the church's architecture and learn about its rich history.

The Palazzo Bonaparte, previously known as D'Aste Rinuccini, is a historical palace located in the Pigna district of Rome, with a view overlooking Piazza Venezia. This location offers visitors a chance to experience the rich history of Rome, while also enjoying the bustling atmosphere of the Piazza Venezia.

The Piccolomini Library, located within the Siena Cathedral, is a significant historical site dedicated to the life of Pope Pius II. The library was established by his nephew, Cardinal Francesco Piccolomini, who was also the Bishop of Siena. The library houses precious book collections of the humanist Pope, Enea Silvio Piccolomini, who passed away in 1464. The library's entrance is from within the cathedral itself.

More than five centuries old, the Musei Capitolini, the Capitoline Museums (which is a single museum) was the oldest public museum in the world, composed of three main buildings (the Palazzo Senatorio, the Palazzo dei Conservatori, and the Palazzo Nuovo) surrounding the Piazza del Campidoglio and li

The city of Taormina has one main street, Corso Umberto, which is lined with numerous restaurants and shops. This makes it a vibrant and lively place for tourists to explore and enjoy local cuisine and shopping.

Villa San Michele, situated in Anacapri on the island of Capri, is a testament to the vision of Swedish writer, philanthropist, and doctor Axel Munthe. Constructed in the final decade of the 19th century, the villa stands as a symbol of Munthe's dedication to art, nature, and philanthropy.

The Pfanner Palace, also known as the Controni-Pfanner Palace, is a palace located in the city of Lucca in Tuscany, on the edge of its fortified enclosure, the Mura di Lucca. It can be accessed via 33, Via degli Asili. This palace is a significant part of Lucca's architectural heritage and offers a glimpse into the city's rich history.

The Tempio Voltiano, also known as the Volta Temple, is a museum located in the city of Como, Lombardy, Italy. It is dedicated to the scientist Alessandro Volta, who was born in 1745 and died in 1827. Volta is a renowned physicist, known for inventing the first electrical battery, the voltaic pile. He was born in Como and spent a significant portion of his life there.

The Santa Maria della Scala museum complex is a collection of museums in Siena, Italy. These museums are located within the Santa Maria della Scala Hospital, which is accessible from the forecourt of the Duomo. This location makes it a convenient stop for tourists visiting the Duomo and looking to explore more of Siena's rich history and culture.

Since 1927, the Ca' d'Oro has been functioning as a museum, known as the Galleria Giorgio Franchetti. The palace is considered a prime example of Venetian Gothic architecture, making it a significant site for those interested in architectural history.

Museo Nazionale del Bargello is a museum in Florence that is housed in a 13th-century palace which is the oldest public building in Florence. It opened as a national museum in 1865 after it was used as barracks, a prison, and finally the residence of the Bargello, the head of the police. The art gal

Villa Carlotta, located in Tremezzo on Lake Como, Lombardy, Italy, is a summer residence dating back to the 18th century. Today, it serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the past and a chance to appreciate the architectural and historical significance of the villa.

The Castello di Avio, also known as Castello di Sabbionara, is a significant historical site in Trentino. Dating back to the 11th century, it is one of the oldest fortifications in the region. Its strategic geopolitical importance is due to its geographical position, overlooking the historically important fords of the Etsch valley, which was a main connection route between Northern Europe and the Mediterranean.

The Castello Maniace is a fortress situated in Syracuse on the east coast of Sicily. It is located at the southern tip of the Ortygia peninsula, where the old town of Syracuse is also found. This strategic location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore both the historical fortress and the charming old town in one visit.

Ca' Rezzonico is a palace situated on the Grand Canal in Venice. It is located at the point where the canal connects with the Rio di San Barnaba. This location offers a unique view of the city's waterways, making it a fascinating spot for visitors.

Labirinto Della Masone, constructed by Franco Maria Ricci, was at one point the largest maze globally. This unique attraction, located in the town of Fontanellato near Parma, Italy, offers a unique experience for visitors. Although it lost the title of the world's largest maze in 2018, it remains the biggest bamboo labyrinth, making it a distinctive feature in the world of mazes.

The Natural History Museum of Venice, also known as Museo di Storia Naturale di Venezia, was inaugurated in 1923. It is located in the city of Venice, Italy, and has been a significant point of interest for visitors since its opening.

The Palazzo Piccolomini, also known as Palazzo Todeschini Piccolomini, is a Renaissance-style city palace located in Siena. This grand structure served as the main residence of the Piccolomini noble family. Its architectural style and historical significance make it a notable point of interest for visitors to the city.

The villa features a large park, agricultural buildings, and a stately main house with a cycle of frescoes in the Rococo style from the 17th to 18th century. Visitors can explore the grandeur of the main house, admire the intricate frescoes, and stroll through the expansive park that surrounds the villa.

Located just behind the cathedral, the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo was founded in 1891 to hold the works of art that were originally decorating the Baptistry of San Giovanni, the Duomo and Giotto's Bell Tower. There are over 750 medieval and Renaissance statues and reliefs situated over three floors

The Pisa Baptistery of St. John is a significant Catholic ecclesiastical building located in Pisa, Italy. The construction of this historic structure began in 1152 and was completed in 1363. It is part of the architectural ensemble and World Heritage Site of the Piazza dei Miracoli, alongside the Duomo di Pisa, its campanile, the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Camposanto.

Sant'Agnese in Agone is a church located in the famous Piazza Navona in Rome. The church is steeped in history and tradition, with its origins tied to the story of Saint Agnes. According to legend, Saint Agnes was exposed naked to the public, but was miraculously covered by her hair. This event is said to have taken place on the very site where the church now stands.

Villa Pisani at Stra is a monumental, late-Baroque rural palace located along the Brenta Canal near the town of Stra, in the Veneto region of northern Italy. This villa is one of the largest examples of Villa Veneta located in the Riviera del Brenta, the canal linking Venice to Padua. The villa and gardens now operate as a national museum, and the site sponsors art exhibitions.

Pombia Safari Park, located in Pombia, Piedmont, northern Italy, is a combination of a safari park, zoo, and amusement park. The park, which was established by Angelo Lombardi in 1976, spans an impressive area of 400,000 square metres.

Villa Necchi Campiglio is a villa in Milan that was built in the 1930s, where visitors can discover the way of living for the upper class in the 20th century. Tours in several languages are held in the Villa Necchi Campiglio. Check the specific times on the official website.

The Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a renowned museum situated on the Grand Canal in Venice. It is housed in the historic Palazzo Venier dei Leoni and is a part of the globally recognized Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation. This museum is a significant destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike, offering a unique blend of history, architecture, and art.

The Correr Museum, also known as Museo Correr, is a municipal museum situated in Venice, Italy. It is strategically located on St. Mark's Square, facing the basilica that shares the same name. This location makes it easily accessible and a central point of interest for tourists exploring the city.

Pinacoteca di Brera is a gallery where visitors can admire one of the greatest collections of Italian paintings in the world. The artworks exhibited here range from renaissance to modern art and includes works of masters such as Raphael, Caravaggio or the Bellini brothers. Most of the art here is of

The Museo Ferrari, formerly known as Galleria Ferrari, is a museum dedicated to the iconic Ferrari sports car brand. It's not just a car museum, but a place where you can explore the rich history and heritage of the Ferrari brand, its technological innovations, and its significant contributions to the motor racing industry. The museum is conveniently located just 300 meters from the Ferrari factory in Maranello, near Modena, Italy.

Museo Nazionale Romano - Palazzo Massimo is the National Museum in Rome, housed in the Palazzo Massimo alle Terme. Erected between 1883 and 1887 in a neo-cinquecentesco style, it was a prestigious school until 1960. The ground floor features the notable bronze statues of the Boxer at Rest and the At

The Gallerie dell'Accademia, located in Venice, northern Italy, is a museum gallery that showcases pre-19th-century art. It is situated in the Scuola della Carità, which is on the south bank of the Grand Canal, within the sestiere of Dorsoduro. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of Venice through the lens of its art.

The Anagni Cathedral, located in Anagni, Lazio, Italy, is a significant Catholic cathedral. It is the home to the cathedra of the Diocese of Anagni-Alatri. This cathedral is a Marian church dedicated to the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary and serves as the episcopal seat of the Diocese of Anagni-Alatri.

The Dallara Academy is a multifunctional museum situated in Varano de' Melegari, Italy. It was inaugurated on September 21, 2018, and is located near the headquarters of the namesake company. The museum offers a unique blend of history, technology, and education, making it an interesting destination for tourists interested in automotive history and design.

The Museo dell'Opera Metropolitana del Duomo is a museum located in Siena, Italy. It is dedicated to preserving the works of various artists who have contributed to the city's rich cultural and artistic heritage over the centuries. These works were created for the dome, baptistery, and oratory of San Bernardino, some of the city's most significant architectural landmarks.

The Abbey of Santa Maria di Cerrate, situated on the provincial road that links the towns of Squinzano and Trepuzzi to Casalabate, is a remarkable example of Otranto Romanesque architecture. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique glimpse into the region's historical and architectural heritage.

The Castello della Manta is a medieval manor that sits atop the hills of Manta, in the province of Cuneo. This historic castle offers a glimpse into the past, with its architecture and design reflecting the styles and trends of the medieval period. Visitors can explore the castle grounds and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The Marciana National Library, also known as the Library of St. Mark, is a significant cultural institution in Venice and one of the largest libraries in Italy. It is located on the part of St. Mark's Square called Piazzetta dei Leoncini, on the edge of the Grand Canal. The library is home to one of the world's richest collections of manuscripts, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in history, literature, and culture.

The Ducal Palace of Lucca, also known as the Palace of the Province, is a significant historical site located in Napoleon Square. Over the years, it has been known by several names, including the Palace of the Illustrious Lords and the Main Palace of the Republic of Lucca. This reflects its varied history and the different roles it has played in the governance of the city.

The Puccini Museum is situated in the birthplace of the renowned composer Giacomo Puccini in Lucca. This historic site, where Puccini was born on December 22, 1858, offers a unique insight into the life and work of the composer. The Puccini family had settled in this house in 1815, and Puccini himself lived here until 1880 when he moved to Milan to complete his studies.

The Castello di Serravalle, also known as the Malaspina Castle or Bosa Castle, is a fortified complex located on the Serravalle hill in Bosa, Sardinia. It was built in the second half of the 13th century by the Tuscan family of Malaspina dello Spino Secco, following the dissolution of the power of the Giudicato of Torres in the territory. The castle offers a dominant view over the town of Bosa, making it a significant landmark in the region.

The Botanical Garden of the University of Siena, also known as Orto Botanico dell'Università di Siena, is a botanical garden that spans across 2.6 hectares. It is situated in the beautiful city of Siena, Italy. This garden is a part of the university and is a member of the Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI).

Certosa e Museo di San Martino Napoli (Charterhouse of St. Martin) is a museum in Naples and is a former monastery complex on top of the Vomero hill. The museum houses collections of Spanish and Bourbon era artifacts, as well as displays of the presepe (Nativity scene) that is considered to be one o

The Galleria Doria Pamphilj is a museum in Rome, housed in the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, the palace of the Doria family (who still lives there), which could very well be the largest in Rome still in private ownership. The museum mainly exhibits paintings. However the collection contains paintings, fur

The Basilica Palladiana is a significant Renaissance building located in the central Piazza dei Signori in Vicenza, a city in north-eastern Italy. This architectural masterpiece is a testament to the Renaissance period and is a key attraction for those interested in historical architecture.

Located in Rimini, Romagna, in northern Italy, Castel Sismondo is a historical castle with only the central part of the structure still standing. This central nucleus is a testament to the castle's past and offers a glimpse into its historical significance.

The Church of Madonna di San Biagio, located approximately a kilometer southwest below the city fortification of Montepulciano, is recognized as one of the most impressive central buildings of the Tuscan Renaissance. It is situated in an open field at the end of a cypress avenue and served as a pilgrimage church. The church, dedicated to Saint Blaise, was built from travertine between 1519 and 1540 based on the designs of Florentine architect Antonio da Sangallo the Elder.

The Guttuso Museum, named after the renowned artist Renato Guttuso, is situated in the city of Bagheria, within the metropolitan city of Palermo. The museum is housed in the Villa Cattolica, a historic building located on the outskirts of the city. This location provides a serene and picturesque setting for the museum, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

The Lamborghini Museum, located in Sant'Agata Bolognese, Italy, is an automobile museum owned and operated by Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. This museum is a testament to the rich history and legacy of the Italian car manufacturer, Lamborghini. It offers visitors a chance to explore the evolution of Lamborghini's iconic models and understand the brand's commitment to innovation and design excellence.

Inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List, this monastery is a must-see! Visit the church, ancient Roman house and the museum of art, too.

The Sforza Castle is a 15th century Renaissance castle surrounded by massive walls and built by the Duke of Milan (Francesco Sforza) as his residence. Today, it houses many museums, including The Museum of Ancient Art, the Egyptian Museum, the Applied Arts Collection, the Museum of Musical Instrumen

The Scuola Grande di San Rocco is a significant building located in Venice, Italy. It is particularly renowned for its extensive collection of paintings by the artist Tintoretto. These works are generally considered to be some of his finest, making the Scuola Grande di San Rocco a notable destination for art enthusiasts.

The Museo di Palazzo Mansi, situated in the heart of Lucca, is home to a significant national art gallery. This museum offers a unique opportunity to explore a wide range of artworks, making it a worthwhile destination for art enthusiasts.

The Charterhouse of St. Giacomo, located on the picturesque island of Capri in the Bay of Naples, Italy, has a rich history dating back to the 14th century. It was founded in 1371 by Giacomo Arcucci, who later became a monk in this very monastery. This historical site offers a glimpse into the monastic life of the Carthusian monks who once resided here.

The Domus Aurea, literally translated as the 'House of Gold', was a grand palace constructed by Emperor Nero on the Oppian Hill in the heart of ancient Rome. This construction was initiated after the great fire of 64 AD. The palace was a symbol of opulence and extravagance, with its luxurious inlays of gold, precious stones, and ivory.

The Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Reggio Calabria (MArRC), previously known as the Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia, is a museum situated in Reggio Calabria, Calabria, Italy. This museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, showcasing a vast collection of archaeological findings from Calabria and beyond.

Museo nazionale di Capodimonte (The National Museum of Capodimonte) houses galleries of ancient art, one of contemporary art and a historic apartment. The collection mainly consists of paintings, from two main collections, namely the Farnese collection, which includes Italian as well as internationa

Museo Galileo is a museum in Florence where visitors can learn about the history of science. Housed in Palazzo Castellani, the museum boasts a great collection of scientific instruments from the Medici Collection dating back to the 15th century. The permanent exhibition is devoted to Galileo, even G

The Galleria Nazionale delle Marche is a museum situated in the Palazzo Ducale of Urbino, in the Marche region of Italy. This museum is home to a vast collection of artworks, primarily gathered during the 19th century from churches and convents in the Marche region. The museum is renowned for its Renaissance section, which features major works by Piero della Francesca and other artists from the court of Federico da Montefeltro.