Pisa, Italy, is more than just its world-famous Leaning Tower; it's a city where history, art, and culture intersect to create a fascinating experience for visitors. The Leaning Tower, part of the Piazza dei Miracoli or Square of Miracles, is an architectural wonder that draws millions each year. Built as a bell tower for the adjacent Pisa Cathedral, its unintended tilt has become a global icon.
Nestled along the south bank of the Danube, this historical Austrian city bursts with charm. A favorite stop on European river cruises, the city's most famous attraction is Melk Abbey, which dates back to the 11th century. The original Benedictine structure was lost to fires and foreign invasion, then rebuilt during the 18th century in lavish Baroque style, including a library and inner church covered in magnificent frescoes and gilded fixtures.
The capital of Crete, Heraklion is a Greek port city and a popular stop on Mediterranean and Greek cruises. The city is an historical marvel, replete with archaeological wonders and remnants of the region's past. Highlights include the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, the Rocca a Mare Fortress, the Venetian Loggia, and just past the city limits, the Palace of Knossos.
Reggio Calabria, located at the tip of Italy’s toe, is a city where ancient history and natural beauty converge in spectacular fashion. One of the city's most renowned landmarks is the Bronzi di Riace, two magnificent bronze statues from the 5th century BC that were discovered off the coast of Riace in 1972.