Here’s my guide to visiting Nero’s Domus Aurea, or Golden House, in Rome. If you’re a history or archaeology buff like me, you’ll be smitten with this secret underground palace. I think it’s a must visit attraction in Rome. But, because it’s only been reopen on a limited basis since 2007, the Golden House is … Read more
Here’s my guide to visiting the Borghese Gallery in Rome Italy. The magnificent museum is one of my favorite museums in Europe. It’s one of the world’s most perfect small museums. The museum houses a jaw dropping art collection in a luxurious garden villa. If you’re an art and architecture lover, the Borghese is a … Read more
Here’s my guide to visiting Villa Farnesina in Rome Italy. Designed by artist-architect Baldasarre Perruzi, Villa Farnesina is a magnificent off the beaten path museum, located in Rome’s lovely Trastevere neighborhood. It’s home to torrid love stories and secret Raphael paintings. If you know me, you know I hate crowds. Blissfully, this small museum on … Read more
Here’s my wanderlusty guide to the 25 best museums in Italy. Bella Italia! Italy is one of the most popular countries on earth — with a rich ancient Roman history and some of the world’s most iconic landmarks. Italy is also home to some of the world’s most revered museums and artistic masterpieces. Italian museums … Read more
Here’s my guide to the Bernini Trail in Rome. No artist defined 17th century Rome more than Gian Lorenzo Bernini. He worked under nine popes and left an indelible mark on the city. In this guide, I give you an overview of Bernini’s fascinating life and tell you where to find his magnificent art works … Read more
Here’s my complete guide to visiting Florence’s beloved Uffizi Gallery. The Uffizi is one of the world’s best classical museums. People come in droves to the Uffizi to see history’s greatest hits, from when Florence was the cultural and artistic center of the world. The Uffizi is the third most visited attraction in Italy. And … Read more
Here’s my guide to an absolute must visit museum in Florence, the Duomo Museum. It’s officially called the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo or “OPA.” This translates to the museum of the cathedral’s building or works committee. The Duomo Museum is a fabulous treasure box of sculpture. It boasts an unparalleled collection of Medieval and early … Read more
“No other artwork is equal to David in any respect.” — Giorgio Vasari Here’s my guide to seeing Michelangelo’s David at Florence’s Galleria dell’Accademia. David is one of Florence’s top attractions. The Accademia is one of the world’s most famous museums. David is arguably the world’s most famous sculpture. It’s a beautiful piece of art displayed in a beautiful … Read more
Here’s my guide to visiting the Palazzo Vecchio. The palace is the civic heart of Florence and one of its most hallowed historic sites. The Palazzo Vecchio is a doughty medieval fortress on the outside. In contrast, on the inside, it’s a resplendent Renaissance palace filled with artistic treasures. It’s one of Florence’s most important … Read more
Here’s my complete guide to the Basilica of San Lorenzo in Florence Italy. I tell you everything to see inside and give you must know tips for visiting and getting tickets. The San Lorenzo complex is vast. It includes the basilica itself, Brunelleschi’s Old Sacristy, the Medici Chapels, the Medici Crypt, and the Laurentian Library. … Read more