Rome, Italy
Rome's great amphitheatre, opened in AD 80, with the ruins of the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill beside it.
The Colosseum opened in AD 80 and held around 50,000 spectators for gladiator fights and public shows. Even in ruins it is astonishing: four storeys of arches outside, and below the arena floor the tunnels where animals and fighters waited.
The visit continues next door in the Roman Forum, the heart of the ancient city, and up the Palatine Hill, where emperors built their palaces and the view over the Forum is superb. A guide brings the stones to life, and children love the gladiator stories.
Entry is by timed ticket and sells out in peak season, so we book ahead. In summer go at opening time or in the late afternoon, wear comfortable shoes and carry water, as there is little shade.
Vatican City
Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling, the Vatican's art collections and the vast basilica of St Peter's, in the world's smallest country.
Discover : Vatican Museums and St Peter's Basilica
Rome
Rome's most famous Baroque fountain, where tradition says a coin tossed over your shoulder brings you back to the city.
Discover : Trevi Fountain
Venice
A gondola ride through Venice's quiet side canals and out onto the Grand Canal, past palaces, the Rialto Bridge and St Mark's.
Discover : Venice Grand Canal Gondola Ride
Pisa
The tilting bell tower of Pisa Cathedral on the Square of Miracles, an easy half-day trip from Florence.
Discover : Leaning Tower of Pisa
Florence
Brunelleschi's great red dome over Florence, with Giotto's bell tower, the Uffizi Gallery and Michelangelo's David nearby.
Discover : Florence Duomo
Positano
Pastel villages stacked above the sea, a famous cliff road and boat trips to Capri, best enjoyed on an unhurried honeymoon.
Discover : Amalfi Coast and Positano
Milan • Como • Florence/Pisa • Rome • Capri • Amalfi Coast.
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