Pompeii

This developed city got buried and preserved under 4 to 6 metres of volcanic ashes, creating a paradise for archaeologists and history enthusiasts, who come here to deepen their knowledge of the olden times.

It is believed that the city was founded in the 7th or 6th century BC. At the time of destruction, it had about 11,000 citizens, a gymnasium, an amphitheatre and a complex water system. After the volcanic eruption, the city disappeared from everyone's mind and memory for about 1,500 years, until it was rediscovered in 1599.

Today, this attraction offers an inside look into how people, the wealthy and the poor, used to live several hundred years ago. Pompeii is visited by around 2.5 million visitors every year.

The archaeological site can get pretty confusing without a guide, so it's highly recommended to get one. There are various high-speed trains from Rome or from Naples that can get you here in no time.