Spanish Steps, Rome
Must-See135 steps connecting Piazza di Spagna to Trinita dei Monti — the world's most famous staircase. Best in spring when azaleas bloom.
Scala dei Giganti, Doge's Palace, Venice
Must-SeeThe Giants' Staircase — where Doges were crowned between Neptune and Mars. Part of the Doge's Palace tour.
Bramante Staircase, Vatican
Must-SeeThe double-helix spiral — actually two staircases, one ascending, one descending, that never meet. The modern one (1932) is the famous photo.
Scala Regia, Caserta Royal Palace
Must-SeeThe grand staircase of Europe's largest royal palace — 117 steps of marble theatre. Vanvitelli's masterpiece of spatial drama.
Scala dei Turchi, Agrigento
Must-SeeNot a built staircase — white marl cliffs carved by the sea into natural steps. A geological wonder and a popular beach access.
Where to start
Italy has the world's greatest concentration of most beautiful staircases in italy. Use this guide to find the masterpieces — then let yourself be surprised by what you discover on your own.