Places chrissyml Wants to Go

A fairytale island floats in the middle of Italy's little-known Lake Orta.

Crushed coral and crystals give the sand its signature coloration.

This medieval Italian town is a sheer (and beautiful) cliffside defense.

The plague quarantine island home to the alleged "Vampire of Venice."

Filled with goldfish swimming in a shallow pool of sea water, this ancient crypt is more wishing well than burial site.

This domed temple was built in a hidden cave mouth as a refuge for sinners seeking absolution.

Pilgrimage site for star-crossed lovers.

This immaculate and historic water garden culminates in a massive stone dining table with an inset fountain for chilling the wine of the Cardinal's guests.

This ritzy Italian market is built around a statue of an unforgiven heretic who was burned for his belief in an endless universe.

This former Roman Catholic Church still contains the embalmed hearts and organs of 22 popes.

These "anatomical machines" are only one of the many strange items in this Italian crypt.

Natural cathedral designed by Italian artist Giuliano Mauri.

Abandoned medieval hill town.

A collection of objects supposedly singed by the hands of souls in purgatory.

This enchanting 600-year-old tree is so magical it inspired the beloved tale of Pinocchio.

The last moments of the ill-fated Pompeiians, frozen forever in plaster.

The glowing blue Nymphaeum of Emperor Tiberius.

Hidden in an Italian forest is a completely homemade amusement park that has taken a lifetime to create.

The final resting place of the poets Shelley and Keats.

Venice's "Island of the Mad."

Sitting on an Italian hilltop is this surreal fortress built by the mad inventor of electrohomeopathy.

Stalactites and stalagmites in a beautifully lit cave.

The underground sanctuary of a mysterious ancient cult.

Pompeii's less famous neighbor is still revealing her secrets.