Top 100 best museums in Italy

St. Peter's Basilica, known in Italian as Basilica di San Pietro in Vaticano, is one of the world's largest church buildings. It is a significant site within Catholicism and serves as the center of the Roman Catholic Church. Despite not being a cathedral, it holds a unique position in the Christian world and is considered one of the holiest sites in Catholicism.

The National Monument to Victor Emmanuel II, also known as Altare della Patria or Il Vittoriano, is a significant landmark in Rome, Italy. It was built to honor Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of a unified Italy. This massive memorial is a testament to Italy's history and is a symbol of national unity.

Monreale Cathedral, also known as Cattedrale di Santa Maria Nuova, is a basilica minor often referred to as a cathedral or cathedral church. This architectural marvel is a fusion of Byzantine, Islamic, and Romanesque architecture with early Gothic elements. It is a testament to the rich cultural and historical influences that have shaped the region over the centuries.

The Orvieto Cathedral, also known as Duomo di Orvieto or Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, is a significant historical site in Orvieto, Umbria. This 14th-century cathedral was built by order of Pope Urban IV and is considered a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture. It offers a unique blend of history, art, and spirituality that can be appreciated by all visitors.

The Basilica di San Nicola, a minor Catholic basilica, is situated in Bari, Apulia, Italy. It falls under the jurisdiction of the Archdiocese of Bari-Bitonto. This historic religious site is a significant place of pilgrimage for Italians and Eastern Orthodox Christians.

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 Tower of Pisa, a renowned symbol of Italy, is situated in the city of Pisa in the northern part of the country. It was constructed as a separate bell tower for the city cathedral during the period of 1173-1272. The tower's construction is attributed to architects Bonnano Pisano and Diotisalvi, although there is no definitive information due to the 99-year construction period.

The Piazza dei Miracoli, also known as the cathedral square of Pisa, is the city's most significant religious and artistic tourist destination. It is home to monuments that form the center of the city's religious life, including the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. The square has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987, marking it as a place of exceptional cultural and historical significance.

The Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, commonly known as the San Siro Stadium, is a renowned football stadium located in Milan, Italy. It is unique in that it is shared by two of Italy's most famous football clubs, AC Milan and Internazionale. Despite the intense rivalry between these two clubs, they both call this stadium their home ground.

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

The Palermo Cathedral, situated in the city of Palermo in Sicily, Italy, is renowned for its distinct oriental style. This is primarily attributed to its interior courtyard, which is filled with palm trees. The cathedral's unique architectural style and serene environment make it a fascinating place for tourists to explore.

The Pisa Cathedral, also known as Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption, is a significant landmark located in Pisa, Italy. It is situated on the Piazza dei Miracoli (or Piazza del Duomo), a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cathedral is the centerpiece of this monumental ensemble, making it a focal point for visitors to the city.

Miramare Castle is a historical site located on the Gulf of Trieste, approximately 8 kilometers northwest of the city of Trieste in Italy. This location offers visitors a unique blend of history and natural beauty, with the castle overlooking the Adriatic Sea.

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 for the Doge, the ruler of Venice. Its architectural style is predominantly Gothic, and it is located next to St. Mark's Church at St. Mark's Square.

Among the many towers that were built, the Asinelli and Garisenda towers are the two most famous ones that still stand today. The Asinelli tower, the taller of the two, stands at a height of 97.6 meters. Originally, it was not more than 60 meters tall but was later extended. The Garisenda tower, on the other hand, measures 48 meters. It was originally 60 meters tall but was shortened in the 14th century due to the ground on which it was built giving way.

Villa d'Este, nestled in the city of Tivoli near Rome, is a renowned example of Italian architecture and garden design. Its innovative design and the ingenuity of its garden's architectural works, including fountains and basins, make it an unparalleled example of a 16th-century Italian garden. The villa's design has had a significant influence on landscape creations across Europe.

The Villa del Balbianello is situated in the comune of Lenno, within the province of Como, in the northern Lombardy region of Italy. The villa overlooks the beautiful Lake Como, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is located on the tip of the small wooded peninsula of Dosso d'Avedo on the western shore of the south-west branch of Lake Como, 1500 meters east from the Isola Comacina.

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.

La Fenice, situated in the heart of Venice, Italy, is a significant opera house with a rich history. First opened in 1792, the theatre has faced several devastating fires in 1789, 1846, and 1996. However, like the mythical phoenix it is named after, La Fenice has risen from the ashes each time, showcasing the resilience and dedication to the arts that Venice is known for.

The Royal Palace of Caserta, once the royal residence for the Bourbons of the Kingdom of Naples, was one of the largest palaces in Europe during the 18th century. This grand structure, which was added to the World Heritage list in 1996, offers a glimpse into the opulence and grandeur of the Bourbon monarchy. Its construction began in 1752 under the direction of King Charles VII of Naples, who worked closely with architect Luigi Vanvitelli. However, the king never spent a night in the palace as he abdicated his throne in 1759 to become the King of Spain. The project was then passed on to his third son and successor, Ferdinand I, who completed it.

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 Ancient Theater of Taormina boasts impressive dimensions, with a maximum diameter of about 109 meters and a height of about 20 meters. It was designed to accommodate approximately 10,000 spectators, reflecting the grand scale of performances and events held in ancient times.

Museo Ferrari, formerly known as Galleria Ferrari, is a museum dedicated to the iconic Ferrari sports car brand. It is not just a car museum, but a place where visitors can explore the rich history and heritage of the Ferrari brand. The museum showcases not only the cars but also trophies, photographs, and other historical objects related to the Italian motor racing industry.

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.

Parco Giardino Sigurtà, located in Valeggio sul Mincio in the Italian province of Verona, is a public park that offers a serene and beautiful environment for visitors. The park is named after its owner and renovator, Giuseppe Carlo Sigurtà, who played a significant role in its development and preservation.

Saint Agnes Outside the Walls, also known as Sant'Agnese fuori le mura, is a titular church and minor basilica in Rome. It is situated on a slope that descends from the Via Nomentana. This location offers a unique perspective of the city and the surrounding area.

The Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, located in Ravenna, is a late antique basilica constructed by Theodoric in the 500s. It measures 35 meters in length and 21 meters in width, making it a significant architectural structure of its time. The basilica's size and historical significance make it a noteworthy site for visitors interested in history and architecture.

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 exterior and interior of Siena Cathedral are adorned with white and greenish marble, forming characteristic horizontal stripes. These colors, white and black, are symbolic of Siena, taken from the white and black horses of the city's legendary founders, Senio and Asquio. This unique design element adds to the cathedral's aesthetic appeal and is a notable feature for visitors to observe.

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

The city of Naples, Italy, is home to an underground geothermal zone and a network of tunnels that have been dug over the centuries. This subterranean world is a testament to the city's rich history and geological significance. The tunnels and geothermal zone offer a unique perspective on the city's past, from its geological formation to its architectural evolution.

The villa is designed around the complex network of natural waterfalls of the Aniene river and caves, in the romantic style of the time. The villa was built to control the frequent flooding of the Aniene river, which was undermining parts of the city of Tivoli. The villa's design includes a complex system of gardens and natural caves in the cool, shaded part of the gorge.

Selinunte, known in ancient times as Selinous, is an archaeological site located on the island of Sicily. It is situated approximately 80 kilometers west of the city of Akragas, now known as Agrigento. This ancient Greek city was one of the most westernly located on the southern coast of Sicily.

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

Spoleto Cathedral, also known as Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta or Duomo di Spoleto, is a significant religious site in Italy. It serves as the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Spoleto-Norcia and is the main church of the Umbrian city of Spoleto. The cathedral is dedicated to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and is a prime example of Romanesque architecture.

The Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi, also known as the Stupinigi hunting lodge, is a significant historical site in Italy. It was commissioned by King Victor Amadeus II of Savoy and is considered one of the two baroque masterpieces of the renowned architect Filippo Juvarra. This architectural gem is part of the royal residences of the House of Savoy in Piedmont, which are recognized by UNESCO.

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.

Santa Maria delle Grazie, located in Milan, northern Italy, is a church and Dominican convent that holds the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historic site is renowned for its architectural beauty and cultural significance, making it a notable destination for tourists visiting Italy.

St Mark's Bell Tower, standing at a height of 98.6 meters, is a prominent feature in the cityscape of Venice. Located in the square of the same name, it is the only tower standing in front of the Basilica. The tower is a symbol of the city and is easily recognizable with its simple form and straight brick columns. It hosts five bells and is topped with a pyramid shape, on top of which stands the Archangel Gabriel.

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.

Giotto's Bell Tower, located in Duomo Square in Florence, Italy, is a standalone bell tower that forms part of the complex complementing the Florence Cathedral. This architectural marvel is a significant part of Florence's Gothic architecture and is worth a visit for its rich plastic arts decoration and colorful marble plating.

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 Toirano Caves, a fascinating network of caves, are situated above the town of Toirano, in the province of Savona, in the Liguria region of Italy. This location is not far from the Mediterranean Sea, nestled between the towns of Albenga and Finale Ligure on the Riviera di Ponente. The caves are part of a grey dolomite limestone massif, offering a unique geological experience for visitors.

The Castello di San Giorgio is a significant monument in the city of Mantua and forms part of the Reggia dei Gonzaga. This castle was built on the ruins of the church of Santa Maria di Capo di Bove, starting in 1395 and completed in 1406. It was commissioned by Francesco I Gonzaga and designed by Bartolino da Novara. The castle is a square building with four corner towers and surrounded by a moat with three gates and corresponding drawbridges, aimed at defending the city.

Santa Severa is easily accessible by both train and car. The town has a train station on the regional train line FR5, which runs from Roma Termini to Civitavecchia. Additionally, it can be reached via the same exit on the A12 Autostrada Azzurra motorway, which runs from Rome to Civitavecchia.

The Abbey of Sant'Antimo, a former Benedictine monastery, is situated in the picturesque location of Castelnuovo dell'Abate, within the commune of Montalcino in Tuscany, central Italy. This historic site offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history and religious significance of the region.

The Juventus Museum, also known as the J-Museum, is a sports museum dedicated to Juventus FC, the most decorated football club in Italy. The museum is part of a complex surrounding Juventus Stadium and is entirely bilingual in Italian and English. It was opened in 2012, on the 115th anniversary of the club, by club president Andrea Agnelli and museum chairman Paolo Gamberti.

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

Castel Nuovo, also popularly known as Maschio Angioino, is a medieval Italian castle situated in the city of Naples. This historic structure was built during the reign of Charles of Anjou, who moved the capital from Palermo to Naples in 1266. Despite the existence of other castles in the city, Charles decided to build another castle to house his court. The construction of Castel Nuovo began in 1279 under the direction of French architect Pierre de Chaule and was completed in three years.

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 Palace of the Popes in Viterbo, also known as Palazzo dei Papi, is a significant monument located in the region of Lazio, Italy. This palace is a part of the rich historical and architectural heritage of the city of Viterbo.

Italia in Miniatura is a unique amusement and miniature park that was established in 1970. It is located in Viserba, a charming town in Rimini, Italy. This park offers a unique experience for visitors, allowing them to explore Italy and other international landmarks in a miniature form.

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

Zoom Torino is a zoological garden that was inaugurated in 2009. It is located in Cumiana, in the metropolitan city of Turin. The park covers an area of about 160,000 m² and is home to eighty-four animal species that are located in eleven different habitats. This provides a diverse and immersive experience for visitors.

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.

Masino Castle, situated near Caravino, holds a significant place in the history of Piedmont. The castle was originally demolished in the mid-16th century, but was later rebuilt in the subsequent century. This historical monument stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the time and offers a glimpse into the region's rich past.

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.

Inaugurated in 1883, the Palazzo delle Esposizioni holds the distinction of being the first establishment in Italy entirely dedicated to the Fine Arts. Its primary function is to document and showcase the past and present artistic history of Rome. This makes it a significant destination for art enthusiasts and those interested in the cultural heritage of the city.

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 Nicolis Museum, situated in Villafranca di Verona, Veneto, was founded in the year 2000. The museum was the brainchild of Luciano Nicolis, a Veronese entrepreneur who had a deep passion for mechanics and vintage cars. This museum is a testament to his love for these subjects and his desire to share them with the public.

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.

The Villa of Oplontis, discovered in 1964, offers a unique glimpse into the life of a noble Roman family. This villa, located in the ancient site of Oplontis, now known as Torre Annunziata, was buried under the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. The villa's well-preserved state provides a fascinating insight into the Roman lifestyle and architecture of the time.

The Arezzo Cathedral, a Roman Catholic cathedral, is situated in the city of Arezzo in Tuscany, Italy. The cathedral stands on the site of a pre-existing Palaeo-Christian church and possibly the acropolis of the ancient city. This historical significance adds a layer of intrigue for visitors interested in the rich past of the region.

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.

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