• Circus Maximus (Rome): Visitors with Hollywood visions of Ben Hur racing his chariot around a majestic Circus Maximus are in for a major let-down: Pillaged of its marble and stone over the centuries, the circus today is little more than a big dusty oval field beside a Metro station. Yes, there's an archaeological exhibit here that cranks up the interest a little. But still, don't place this high on your must-see list.

  • Ponte Vecchio (Florence): Sorry, lovers, but this isn't even the prettiest bridge in Florence, let alone one of the world's great spots for romantics. It's packed at all hours, and hemmed in by shops that cater mostly to tourism. For a special moment with a loved one—perhaps even to “pop the question”—head downstream one bridge to the Ponte Santa Trínita. Built in the 1560s by Bartolomeo Ammanati, its triple-ellipse design is pure elegance in stone. At dusk, it is also one of Florence's best spots to photograph the Ponte Vecchio… if you must.

  • Capri (Campania): Capri can be enchanting, but the island falls victim to its own popularity. Arrive in midsummer on a day excursion, and you’ll corral through the gardens of Augustus, crowd into a boat on the Blue Grotto, and shell out 5€ for a bottle of water. Solution: Spend the night here, to properly enjoy the scenery and sparkling-white towns after the day-trippers leave, or to walk scented flower paths early on a spring morning. 

 

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.