Weekend in Aosta

The main Roman gate to the city, with three arches and two defensive towers still intact. It marks the original entrance on the decumanus maximus.

Tip: Walk through the central arch and look up at the intricate stonework. The gate is also the start of the pedestrianised Via Porta Pretoria – great for a morning stroll.

The original eastern gate to the Roman town, preserved as three arched passages flanked by twin towers. You can walk through both pedestrian arches and see the Roman road pavement

Tip: Stand under the central arch at midday — the light hits the Roman inscription on the keystone. The gate connects to the Decumanus Maximus, the main Roman street, still lined with shops.

Best-preserved Roman city gate from 25 BC, with two archways and a central courtyard. You can walk through it freely.

Tip: Stand in the middle of the courtyard and look up—the stonework is original. The adjacent Via Porta Praetoria has cheap bakeries for a snack.

The ancient Roman city gate from 25 BC, with three arches still in use as a pedestrian passage. The original stone pavement and defensive towers flank the entrance to the old town.

Tip: Walk through at night when the arches are lit; you can see the Roman road level is about 1.5 metres below the modern street. No entry fee as it is always open.

Free entry to the cathedral proper – a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles. The 12th-century floor mosaics and luminous stained glass are the highlights.

Tip: Check the cloister behind the church; it's often unlocked and has beautiful carved capitals. Leave a small donation if you use the audio guide app.

Grand 1st-century BC gate with three arches, part of the intact Roman city walls that encircle the old town.

Tip: Walk through the gate and follow the wall path along Via San Anselmo for a free self-guided Roman tour.

Medieval cathedral with a Baroque facade, Romanesque bell tower, and a treasury museum. The main nave and crypt are free to enter.

Tip: Check the crypt beneath the altar—it has 11th-century frescoes. The treasury costs €5 but skip it unless you're keen on reliquaries.

A subterranean Roman gallery from the 1st century BC, part of the ancient forum. You can walk through the vaulted corridors beneath Piazza Giovanni XXII, seeing original stonework

Tip: Go in the late afternoon when the low sun lights up the arches; the entrance is in the crypt of the cathedral, so it can be easy to miss. No ticket needed.

The original eastern gate of the Roman walled city, built in 25 BC. Three arches under a stone pediment remain, with sections of the Roman road visible through glass panels in the

Tip: Stand under the central arch and look south to see the alignment with the Roman forum.

Romanesque crypt beneath the 4th-century cathedral, with mosaic floors, carved capitals and a quiet, atmospheric feel. Free to enter during church opening hours.

Tip: Visit mid-morning for best light filtering through the small windows.