It may not be as well known as the other attractions on this list, but that certainly does not mean you should miss out on visiting this amazing villa. It stands just outside the city of Rome, where the museum and ruins are both splendid and a great respite from the busy city. We recommend taking a guidebook or buying the reasonable audio guide so you know what you are looking at. The villa was built by the Quintili brothers who lavished it with thermal baths and other extraordinary features. Lusted after, the brothers were actually killed by Emperor Commodus so he could take over the villa. Today the ruins are in great shape, and you can still clearly see the baths. The museum houses several sculptures that are worth a look. If you happen to be here on the first Sunday of each month, you get in for free.