Italy has a large number of museums displaying art and artifacts from prehistoric times to the present day. Whether you are looking for archeology, Renaissance paintings, or modern art, Italy has something for you. Find out which museums have what you want to see with this guide to the best museums in Italy.
Uffizi Gallery in Florence
The Uffizi Gallery is one of the most popular museums in Italy and is one of the best things to see in Florence. The Uffizi has an incredible collection of works of art by many of Italy’s Renaissance masters, one of the best collections in the world. Because it is so popular, it is best to book in advance to ensure you get tickets.
Vatican Museums
Although technically not in Italy (Vatican City is a separate state), the Vatican Museums complex is easily visited from Rome. With more than 1,400 rooms, it is the largest museum complex in the world. Admission includes visiting the museum, galleries with 3,000 years of art, the Sistine Chapel and parts of the papal palace.
Naples National Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum of Naples has one of the best collections of Greek and Roman antiquities in the world. Many of the objects come from excavations in Pompeii, Herculaneum, and nearby archaeological sites. For lovers of archeology and ancient Roman sites, this is a must-see museum.
Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice
The Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice is Italy’s leading contemporary art museum. It is housed in the 18th century palace that was the residence of wealthy art patron Peggy Guggenheim, who collected masterpieces by some of the most well-known artists and art movements of the 20th century.
Florence
Florence is often called a living museum, but it is also a city with several important museums. You won’t want to miss these on your visit with information on visits and what to see in each museum.
Milan
While Milan does not have as many works of art and artifacts as Florence or Rome, Milan has several museums that are worth visiting. In these museums, you’ll see everything from da Vinci’s Last Supper to modern masterpieces.
Naples
Naples has several interesting museums in addition to the National Archaeological Museum and they are also found in interesting buildings, from underground excavations to monasteries and the hunting lodge of King Carlos III. Naples museums contain archaeological treasures, art and the famous Veiled Christ of Sanmartino.
Rome
The museums of Rome cover the ages of Rome from ancient times to the height of the Roman Empire and even the most modern art.
The best museums in Venice
From the magnificent Doge’s Palace to the Peggy Guggenheim Art Collection, Venice has a wealth of paintings and artwork housed in historic buildings.
Egyptian Museum of Turin
One of the best Egyptian museums in the world, the Museo Egizio , is located in the city of Turin, in northern Italy. It has recently been remodeled and is more impressive than ever. Over 6,000 artifacts are on display (and thousands more are in storage). Admission is free with a Turin Museum card.
Museum of the city of Santa Giulia de Brescia
Although it may not be one of Italy’s must-see museums, the Santa Giulia Museum is still excellent. Housed in ancient monasteries, the museum spans 3,000 years of history and includes visits to 3 different ancient churches and a look at Roman excavations.
Buy museum tickets in advance in select Italy
Make reservations and purchase tickets for many of Italy’s museums directly from Select Italy and pay in US dollars.
