Italy, a land of incomparable art, history and culture, offers a wide variety of wonders to be admired without spending a penny, from extraordinary monuments to thermal springs and bucolic gardens.
Here are the 10 unmissable places which you can visit for free:
1. Basilica of Saint John Lateran, Rome
A Basilica of Saint John LateranThe Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, one of the must-see landmarks on a visit to Rome, is considered one of Borromini's masterpieces and is called the "mother of all churches".
It is one of the four papal basilicas in Rome, alongside St. Peter's, St. Paul Outside the Walls, and St. Mary Major, and forms part of a monumental complex that includes the great obelisk, the Lateran Palace, and the Sanctuary of the Scala Santa.
2. Castel dell'Ovo, Naples
Castel dell'Ovo, the oldest in Naples, is located on the Megaride isolotto. Today, it hosts important exhibitions and cultural events and offers a splendid view of the gulf, dominated by Vesuvius.
Access is only permitted with reservation on the official website of the Naples Municipality.
3. Church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore, Milan
Known as the “Sistine Chapel of Milan”, the church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore contains beautiful frescoes from the 16th century, many of them from the workshop of Bernardino Luini.
Located next to the Civic Archaeological Museum, just a few minutes' walk from Sforzesco Castle and the Duomo, it's a must-visit.
4. Terrazza del Fondaco dei Tedeschi, Venice
For a panoramic view of Venice without spending anything, the right place is Terrazza del Fondaco dei Tedeschi.
This symbolic building of the city offers a stunning view of the Grand Canal.
The visit lasts a maximum of 15 minutes and online reservation is required.
5. Giardino Bellini, Catania
The Giardino Bellini, known by the Catanes as 'the Villa', is a green lung of the city, ideal for walks and relaxation.
Visitors can admire free flower beds, squares for sporting and musical events, benches for resting and reading, shaded boulevards and fountains.
Entrance to the Botanical Gardens of Catania, also free, is an equally charming alternative.
6. Superga Hill, Turin
For a stunning view of Turin, the Superga hill is one of the highest in the city, located around 10 km from the center.
At the top, Duke Vittorio Amedeo II of Savoia decided to build the magnificent Basilica of Superga, which can be admired free of charge in all its splendor.
7. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, known as the Duomo of Florence, is an impressive monument designed by Arnolfo di Cambio in the late 13th century.
Filippo Brunelleschi's iconic dome was added in the 15th century. Inside, visitors can admire the beautiful frescoes by Giorgio Vasari, including the extraordinary Last Judgment.
8. Castello di Miramare, Trieste
Castello di Miramare, an elegant avorio-white building, is located on the tip of the karst promontory of Grignano, a few kilometers from Trieste.
Entrance to its beautiful park, the result of many years of work by Maximiliano d'Asburgo, is free all year round, offering a unique atmosphere.
9. Basilica of Saint Francis, Assisi
The Basilica of Saint Francis, the sacred site par excellence of Assisi, is the most famous site in Umbria and one of the most visited in Italy, recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
The good news is that entry for individual visitors is free.
10. Mill and Gorello Waterfalls, Saturnia
The Mill and Gorello Waterfalls, near the village of Saturnia, are an unmissable attraction in Tuscany.
The Saturnia Thermal Baths allow visitors to immerse themselves in the sulfurous thermal waters, which have multiple therapeutic properties and emerge at a constant temperature of 37,5 degrees Celsius, providing a natural and relaxing experience.
These sites not only highlight Italy's rich cultural and natural heritage, but also prove that it is possible to enjoy unforgettable experiences without spending anything. (Photos: iStock)
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