Roman Holiday – The Ultimate Travel Guide To Italy

Roman Holiday – The Ultimate Travel Guide To Italy

by admin June 03, 2019
Discover Italy Travel Guide

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Exploring Italy | Things to do in Italy

Top Ten Vacation Destinations in Italy

Last Updated July 27th, 2020
 
Italy is a luxury vacation destination for the individual, couple, group or family that values history, architecture, the arts, music, theater, and cuisine. Aside from many Hollywood movies portraying the country in its magnificent splendor, it boasts of the most number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the entire world.

Why is Italy the best place to visit?

Italy is beautiful, versatile, full of passion, and inspires the soul and stirs the mind. Here are the top ten vacation destinations in Italy for those memorable vacation holidays.

Joint us as we discover the who, the what, the where and how in planning that perfect getaway to Italy
 

    • 1.

Rome

    • ( The capital city )

2. Florence

3. Venice

4. Positano

5. Amalfi

6. Siena

7. San Gimignano

8. Taomina

9. Raccione

10. Selva di Val Gardena

 
 
Other awesome location in Italy,

Milan Palermo ( Sicily ) Island of Sardinia Tuscany

From the above you may now notice that Italy literally has some of most interesting travel destinations around the world.

 

1) First on the list is definitely Rome–the capital of Italy.

Is Italy worth visiting?

Rome is the most popular tourist location in Italy, with million of visitors each year. It has mind blowing art, incredible historical sites, fantastic food, and is an important musical center in the country. The main sights of the city include the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon.

The Colosseum is the historical site of the famous gladiator fights and is a great testament of Roman engineering. The Trevi Fountain is Rome’s most famous fountain and is a great focal point for people watching. It is said that whoever throws a coin into the fountain will eventually come back and visit Rome.
 


Italy Vacation

 

Rome, Italy

Whether you are a Woody Allen fan and have fawned over To Rome, with Love or dream of someday riding a Vespa with a Gregory Peck look alike as Audrey Hepburn did in Roman Holiday, Rome has, in some way pervaded our consciousness at least once in our lives. Rich in history, art and literature; rife with gorgeous places to eat and discover, Rome is definitely worth a thought when you are planning your next vacation.
 


Rome Italy

 

Getting There

Rome is an international hub, so getting there should not be a problem. The easiest way would be to fly into Leonardo Da Vinci -Fiumicino Airport, also known simply known as Fiumicino Airport. Most major airlines have flights to Rome, and if you are travelling within Europe, you can avail of any of the train services, such as Eurostar.

Travelling In Rome

You will find plenty of ways to get around the city. Like most European cities, Rome is beautiful to walk around. In fact, you will probably see and discover more if you are on your own two feet (hopefully encased in Italian leather!).

However, many Roman streets are not exactly pedestrian-friendly. Being a tourist haunt, the roads are generally packed with people at any given time of the year, so much so that it gets difficult to walk. Traffic is heavy and sidewalks tend to cater only to people of Kate Moss’ size.

What’s the most beautiful city in Italy?

Some streets have no sidewalks at all, and that is when it gets a little difficult to breathe, with pedestrians moving in packs and jostling for space. Make sure you keep a tight hold on your purse and stay alert at all times.
 

Tip: A good time to visit the Italian capital would be in August, when most of the urban population go on vacation.

 
If you’d rather not walk, the city has a variety of public transport you can avail of. Taxis in Rome are…exactly what you’d expect Italian cabs and drivers to be like. Some will try to fleece, so be sure you always pay according to the meter and never by a pre-arranged fare.

You can’t step out onto the streets of Rome and hail a cab either – you either wait for one at the taxi ranks, or you call for one over the phone. Always make sure your taxi is either white or yellow, which is how you know they are licensed.

The bus service in Rome is fairly frequent and punctual, with buses running from 5.30 am to midnight. Some buses run through the night, though not on all routes. Alternatively, you could take the subway, or the Metropolitana, which, being away from the crowded roads is the swiftest way to get around the city. Look for a big red ‘M’ which marks the entrance to the Metropolitana station
 
 


Discovering Italy

 

Things To See And Do

If you’re a Dan Brown fan and have read Angels and Demons, you’ll want to follow the book trail and see some of the world’s most splendid pieces of art and sculpture, housed in Rome. The city is called a living museum, and has been home to many great artists.

What can you see in Italy in 7 days?

Don’t miss the Colosseum, The city’s ancient amphitheater that was used for gladiator fights. There are usually massively long lines outside for tickets, so try and book yours online in advance.

Be sure to stop by at the Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi), the world’s largest Baroque fountain designed by Nicolas Salvi. They say there is a hidden gelato shop near the fountain that serves the world’s best gelato. And don’t forget to toss a coin into the fountain, to make sure you return to Rome at least once more.

The Campo de Fiori is one of Rome’s oldest marketplaces. During the day, this spot is a regular market, with stalls selling fruits, vegetables and flowers. By night however, it comes alive with restaurants and bars, and little tables and chairs spring up out of nowhere.

If you want to watch a piece of history being sustained against every kind of odds, the Pantheon in Rome is a perfect example. One of the best-maintained buildings from ancient Rome, since it was converted into a Christian nation; this is truly history come to life.

La BoccadellaVerita which means the ‘mouth of truth’ is another place worth a visit. It has become famous after being featured in nearly every movie shot in Italy.

 
 
Discover Italy
 

Shopping And Dining

Shopping in the Eternal City is an experience. One of the first words you need to learn is ‘saldi’ which means ‘sale’. Summer in Rome, when the Romans themselves are away, bring ‘saldi’ by the dozen – you will see massive signs in nearly every store window.

Even designer like Roberto Cavalli and Christian Dior bring down their prices by a significant amount and if that is not enough, smaller boutiques in the Piazza de Spagna and across Rome sell beautifully-made clothes from lesser-known, but equally stylish designers.

Dining out in Rome ought to be a gourmand’s dream come true. You are in the land of pasta, pizza and antipasti; not to mention some very fine wine. However, do not just go into upscale eateries unless you really are on a big budget. Ask your hotel concierge or, if you can, a cab driver and find out about some little-known local eateries.

Some of these will be bare and basic as far as décor goes, but their seafood will be the freshest, the pasta handmade and you’ll be treated to flavors like never before. Ask for the local wine and don’t forget to make a gelato stop.
 


Planning Vacation to Italy

 

Nightlife & Entertainment

Rome pulsates with life at night – it’s almost as though every night is a festival. Whether you’re up for a dance party at one of the city’s many bars, or you’d rather just stop at a café and have the house wine while you watch people go by, there’s something for everyone on a Roman night.

If you have brushed up your Italian, you could catch the theater or an opera. Rome plays host to some wonderful theater groups – classical as well as independent, and some dance performances as well.
A trip to Rome is a journey through the ancient and the modern.
 

2) The second top vacation location in Italy is Florence.

It is the capital of the Italian region of Tuscany and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Forbes named the city as the most beautiful city in the world. It serves as a great inspiration to artists and poets who’ve made their works of art by being inspired by the city.

There’s an old saying that you must visit Rome first and then die peacefully. The truth is, though, that Rome is a wonderful place to get in touch with the centuries’ old Roman culture. These, of course, are great, but let’s not forget that Italy’s hardly like the ancient Roman Empire.

So, if you actually want to taste Italy – pure, authentic and stripped of all worthless embellishments – you have to see Florence. Being the birthplace of the Italian (and later – the whole European) Renaissance sure says a lot about this place.

Witness its tiny cobbled streets, wonder at its great cathedral frescos, smell its rich air and then – just then – be prepared to leave this world.

Satisfied as can be by life at its best.

It is also believed to have the greatest concentration of art in the entire world. Famous sights of Florence include:

 

Little Known Facts about the Statue of David and the Florence Cathedral

 

Planning a trip to Florence?

Here are some little known facts about two important landmarks of this Italian city: the Statue of David and Florence Cathedral.

 

Michelangelo’s Statue of David

It goes without saying that Michelangelo’s masterwork, the original Statue of David housed at Florence’s Accademia Gallery is the piece that most visitors to Florence want to see. David is one of the most copied statues of all time and even the city of Florence itself has two copies of its own located around town.

But nothing is like feasting your eyes on the original David, often referred to as the most outstanding piece of artwork ever produced by man.

But David has had a tough life….

Statue of David, Florence

David was created out of a mammoth block of very fragile marble – so fragile that 2 other sculptors before Michelangelo had tried to produce the statue but had given up. This chiseled block of stone lay abandoned for over 20 years out in the cold.

In 1501 Michelangelo took on the challenge. The great master worked on his sculpture for three years in total solitude as he didn’t want anybody to see the work in progress. Finished in 1504 and standing at over 5 meters tall (16 feet), it took 4 days to move the completed work from Michelangelo’s workshop near the Duomo (which you can still visit today by the way…) to Piazza Signoria, a distance that’s usually a mere 10 minute walk!

Nowadays David lives a protected existence in a museum (some say over protected!), but for more than 300 years this great masterpiece of high renaissance art had stood out in the open in Piazza Signoria – the political center of the city.

Of course the statue incurred damage, the worst of which took place in 1527.

A political revolt broke out and furniture was thrown out of the windows in protest from Palazzo Vecchio (the seat of government). A bench hit David’s left arm which broke off and fell to the ground in pieces.

Destiny is a funny thing though. These bits of marble could easily have been trampled and destroyed in the uprising and the statue damaged forever. Had it not been for Giorgio Vasari, a young boy and aspiring artist just 16 years old at the time.

Vasari was there and saw what happened. He collected the pieces and stored them away in secret waiting for political stability to be re-established.

Later, when he was older and a budding artist in his own right, it was Vasari who did the restoration on Michelangelo’s statue with the pieces he’d been keeping in safety (and as a much older man, Vasari also went on to paint the frescoes in the Florence Duomo as well).

The Florence Cathedral

Florence is often referred to as an open-air museum. This is mostly thanks to its harmonious, elegant and stately Medieval and Renaissance architecture.

But even in architecture, Florence has its ‘Star’: The Duomo – the Florence cathedral – and particularly the Cupola, its mammoth yet majestic dome which can be seen from most anywhere in town.

This dome, with its octagonal egg-shaped cupola, is the iconic image of Florence and remains still today the largest dome in existence to cover any cathedral.

But such architectural feats are not carried out in a day…

Not many people know that although the church was started in 1294, and the opening to place the dome was ready to be covered by 1313, it wasn’t until 1436 – over one hundred years later! – That the dome was actually built.

The city of Florence had lived for over 100 years with the embarrassment of having an incomplete basilica and, even worse, one which had a gaping hole over it where the rain would pour in during bad weather flooding the entire cathedral.

But why 100 years to cover the church?

The problem was that nobody could figure out HOW to construct and physically build a dome as large as the one that was needed to actually cover the cathedral.

Scaffolding was not possible to set up due to the height (over 50 meters) and width (45 meters) of the hole to cover. And no wood could have withstood the weight of all the bricks (just the cupola alone weighs 25,000 tons!)

But thanks to the architect Filippo Brunelleschi Florence was able to get its basilica finished. Brunelleschi came up with an ingenious solution, a solution which today still makes architects and engineers scratch their heads in wonderment.

By creating a dome within a dome, basically an inner shell on which to ‘lay’ the outer cupola, he managed to construct the Duomo of the church in 15 years time. Today it is possible to climb up into the dome and to walk in the space between these two domes to see firsthand and right up close the enormity of Brunelleschi’s vision and the mind-boggling feat that he was able to construct with the most rudimentary of resources (except of course for his genius!).

Florence Italy – the most artistic city on Earth

What to see & to do:

Florence in Italy is like a gorgeous piece of machinery that never seizes to produce historical and cultural landmarks, breathtaking views and dazzling monuments. As if everything here has been made at once and with the single purpose of being perfect – that’s simply Florence – Italy in its perfection.

Florence has been the most important city in the whole world during the most important era for Europe – the age of Renaissance. This used to be a thriving, rich city, whose culture bloomed and scandalized the puritans, who stilled lurked in the Dark Ages.

Florence was home to some of the most notorious Renaissance explorers and scholars, who invented the most significance inventions that laid the base of all of today’s scientific discoveries. Some of the most notorious artists and painters resided here – such as Leonardo da Vinci himself, Michelangelo and many, many others.

Famous composers also found their inspiration while strolling around the city’s gorgeous gardens and while viewing its majestic landscapes. And let’s not forget that he very genre of opera was actually first created here. Of course, this was also a hub for poets and writers who vastly inhabited this most flourishing culture capital of the present world.

Dante probably wouldn’t be Dante if he hadn’t lived in Florence and we might’ve never had the pleasure to read “Decameron” if it wasn’t for Boccaccio’s fascination of the city.

The Uffizi Gallery

Florence in Italy boasts with more than 80 galleries and that’s only natural – this is probably the most artistic city in the world. However, this is Florence’s most popular and most tourist-visited gallery. Renaissance paintings and sculptures make for one of the most precious fine art museums in the world. Here you can see with your own eyes The Birth of Venus and Primavera by Boticelli – that should say enough.

The Accademia Gallery

You can never get tired of visiting local galleries, but if you do anyways, make sure not to miss this one. Here you can witness probably the most famous piece of art in the world – Michelangelo’s David. Here you can also find his unfinished work of sculptures – the Slaves.

The Pitti Palace:

Now, Florence is as majestic and artistic as can be and that’s largely due to its great royal past. Let’s not forget that this is the home of the (in) famous Niccolo Machiavelli. And, of course, the notorious Medici Family. The Medici was one of the most prosperous and dignified families in Europe.

They are responsible for much of Florence’s majesty. So, naturally, this is a must-visit palace, boasting the family’s unmatched sophistication.

The Duomo di Firenze (Santa Maria del Fiore)

Probably the most recognizable building in Florence, the Duomo has become signature for the Italian high-class culture. Gorgeous frescoes, high domes and the never-leaving feeling of being just a mere mortal human being – this is definitely worth experiencing. And if you manage to climb to the top, you can witness some of the most remarkable views of the city.

The Giotto Tower

Yet another prominent landmark, this is also a great place to enjoy Florence’s magnificent panorama.

The Gucci Museum

If you’re into fashion, and you probably are, since you’re in Italy, this is just the place for you. Take a curious sneak-peek into the fashion industry of one of the world’s most famous designers.

Institute and Museum of the History of Science – and if you’re a science geek, you might never want to leave this place. Here you can see all instruments that were used to make some of the most ground-breaking discoveries and inventions of all times. They seem so simple and raw that it must’ve taken a pure genius to use them in such a great way. There’s a special room, dedicated to Galileo Galilei, with some of his original instruments and… a middle finger from his right hand. Strictly scientific, even after death.

The Mercato del Porcellino – this is Florence’s lucky charm. The bronze boar grants your wishes come true and you’re sure to come back to Florence, if you only rub its head and put a coin in its mouth.

The Ponte Vecchio

Yet another signature landmark, Florence’s most famous bridge is a true artistic masterpiece. Spanning over the Arno River, this is the city’s oldest and most beautiful bridge. It’s full of small shops, selling local goods and handicrafts. Just like it used to in the old times.

The Santa Croce cathedral

This is the final resting place of the most notable persons of Florence – Michelangelo, Dante, Galileo, Machiavelli and many others.

Actually, wherever you go and whatever you do in Florence, do it in style. You can never wrong with this one – the city’s so magnificent and so full of monumental beauties that it’s easy to say, everything here is of utmost importance to be witnessed. If you want to escape he busy streets and touristy places, go on the back alleys, follow the medieval routs, don’t be afraid to explore – after all, experiments have led to what Florence is nowadays.

What to eat:

 

Well, well, you’re in Italy and you’re wondering what to eat. You don’t need Google to give you an idea. Whatever you pick for breakfast/lunch/dinner would be fantastic – this is Italy, after all. Use your imagination and try to order things you’ve never heard of (although it’s hard to imagine there are such).

 

Don’t worry about the prices – there’re quite expensive restaurants, but there’re also others which are quite bearable. You can take your food to go or order in a restaurant.

Plus, the lampredotto is Florence’s unique fast food. We won’t spoil it for you and go telling out the ingredients, just trust us and try it.

Of course, a genuine multi-flavored gelato during the hot summer days while having a break from sight-seeing is a must.

What to drink:

Chianti. This is the local type of wine, it’s cheap, but it doesn’t mean its bad – just on the contrary. Make sure to try other wines, as well. You can’t miss that when in Italy.

Where to sleep:

There’s a wide range of accommodations in all prices, so don’t worry about finding a place to stay.

How to travel:

Public transportation is well-developed here and, of course, largely tourist-oriented. SO you shouldn’t have a problem with getting around the city. Plus, most of the famous landmarks are within a close walking distance in the city center and it’s easy to visit them on foot.

Useful tips:

If you want to save on museum tickets, make sure to visit during the first Sunday of the month. All state museums are free then. However, it’s almost impossible to get in line for them, even when they’re paid. So, if you’re planning on visiting Florence’s top-landmarks that require a ticket, book yours earlier and hope for the best.

Anyway, long lines are inevitable so load yourself with loads of patience. Buying a combined card is the surest way to visit all main attractions and even use the public transport for free.

Remember that most cafes and restaurants charge for sitting on their tables. So, if you want to dine out and not to take away your meal, ask for the price first. A coffee might cost 1$, but if you sit to drink it, it might go up as much as 4$. Ouch!

 

3) A great place for honeymooners and couples, Venice is one of the most alluring cities in the world.

The city is separated by canals and bridges and is one of the most important tourists destinations, not only in Italy but in the world, attested by its more than 50,000 visitors each day. Couples will find gondola rides on the canals as absolutely romantic, with its perfect line of Renaissance architecture. Famous sights include the Palazzo Ducale, a perfect example of Gothic masterpiece, and the Musica A Palazzo, with nightly Opera shows.

Each year, Hollywood stars light the city during the Venice Film Festival.
 



 

The Romantic ‘Queen of the Adriatic’

Bruised and battered by war and disease between 14th and 16th centuries, this romantic city survived and became recognized as the most elegant European city in the 18th century, greatly influencing literature, art and architecture. This Italian city was initially built by the Romans.

It formed the setting for some of the world famous theatrical plays like Shakespeare’s ‘Othello’, Voltaire’s ‘Candide’ and was home to famous music composers like Antonio Vivaldi and Giovanni Gabrieli. It is also the home of Marco Polo, the famous explorer and the resting place of St Mark, the Apostle.

 

Known as the Queen of the Adriatic, this Floating City is a marvel put together by man and nature, attracting several people to visit and experience the treasures she hides within.

 

If you have not already guessed the name, I speak of none other than Venice that exudes her charm to visitors in myriad ways- visit her famous museums, take a ride on the gondola, watch a glassmaker make beautiful Venetian glass, travel on board the vaporetto, or just settle yourself at one of the roadside cafes to drink in Venice and her magnificent sights.

 


Discover Venice in Italy

 

How Does The City Float?

Even before you get here, you may be forced to dwell on the curious phenomenon on how the city actually floats. Venice was built in early 1500’s on an archipelago consisting of 117 low islands in the middle of a shallow lagoon. Its 177 canals acted like a moat and formed a natural defense against possible foreign attacks.

What is Venice best known for?

The early Roman architects had to build a stable foundation for Venezia to be built above water. They achieved this by resting it on a bed of compounded silt, sand and mud that lay on a hard layer of compressed clay below water. The stones used in the foundations also have a unique property of possessing high strength and extremely low water absorption which could withstand the weight of the buildings above and the water body around. Wooden piles of native alder trees were chosen and closely placed together. Even after centuries, most of these piles are still intact because the submerged wood, in the absence of contact with air, did not rot or deteriorate. To overcome the constant movement of the tides, the wood provided a strong and flexible support. The soil was later dredged to raise the marshy ground higher than the tides.

What are The Most Popular Things To Do In Venice With Kids?

Travelling to one of the most romantic cities on the world doesn’t need any particular reason. But just to let the mind and wallet follow the heart, let’s look at a few.
 


Things to do in Venice Italy

 

What are the most popular things to do in Venice?

Tourism has always formed a major part of Venice’s economy since the 18th century. Her beautiful landscape and rich cultural heritage made it the center of the Grand Tour. Venice became known for its haute couture and cuisine through the 19th and 20th centuries. People from the world over have been attracted to Venice for major festivals, international conferences and cinematic, musical, cultural, theatrical and artistic productions that include the Carnival of Venice, the Venice Film festival and the much impressive Venice Biennale (a festival of dance, film and arts) and Biennale of Architecture and Theatre.

The other industries that contribute to its economy are lace production (in Burano) and glass production (in Murano) and services.
Venetians are spirited, self determined people who rely on their creative energy, industriousness and talents to revive what had once been lost. They speak the Venetian Language.

Climate

Venice enjoys a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and cool winters. Spring and fall are the best times to visit. Winter months are quiet and may find you as the only few tourists around but it can get foggy, windy, cold and damp with a possibility of ruining your experience. Summers are when the maximum tourist traffic can be seen.

Getting Around Venice

City of Water – How to Navigate Your Way Around Venice.

Venice, a city in Northern Italy, is thought to be one of the most elegant and romantic cities in the world. It spans several small islands in a marshy lagoon within the Adriatic Sea. It was an important centre of spice trade commerce and art during the Renaissance.

The city is a tangled maze of islets, canals and 435 bridges, but it is not as difficult to navigate as you might think. If you are going to be visiting Venice on your holiday, honeymoon or vacation, here are some tips for finding your way around the city.

Venice’s 177 canals are connected by over 400 bridges. Little wonder then why Venice is also called the City of Bridges. Being the only pedestrian city in the world, the canals serve as the only ‘roads’ here.

However, if you get tired of walking there are also some other options. The public transportation system in Venice is based on the water and it is very easy to use. Unfortunately, tickets for public transport can be expensive so it is important to know what you are doing so that you get the most for your money.

Transport by water include

  • vaporetti
    (water buses),
  • gondole,
  • the classical Venetian boats used mostly for tourists, weddings and funerals,
  • sandolo (smaller version of gondola),
  • foot passenger ferries and
  • traghetti used to cross the Grand Canal in the absence of a bridge nearby.

 

What is a traghetto in Venice?

These boats are used to enable people to cross the Grand Canal at points where there isn’t a bridge spanning the water. They are a short crossing which simply takes you from one side of the canal to the other and most people stand up along the way.
 


Travel to Venice in Italy

 
This can be very convenient, as sometimes you will want to get to the other side of the water without having to make your way to the nearest bridge.

A traghetto crossing usually costs around 1-7 Euro.

There is no need to book a ticket in advance, simply walk up to the gondolier and hand them the coins.
The boats will not follow a set schedule; they will simply go back and forth across the river whenever they are full.

When you imagine Venice, you probably picture these long and elegant boats being steered by a mustachioed man with a striped shirt who is serenading you in Italian.

The truth is that this cliché experience will cost you a fortune. If your perfect Italian holiday really won’t be complete without going on a Gondola ride you can hire one, but this is definitely not a budget experience.
You can expect to pay at least 80 Euros for a 40 minute ride, plus tip. Beware of gondola drivers who might attempt to charge you more.
These are just a few tips to keep in mind when you are making your way around Venice.

Enjoy the timeless elegance of this beautiful city and the romantic atmosphere of its medieval buildings and canals.
 

Is Venice easy to walk around?

There are no cars in Venice as it is the world’s only pedestrian city. This makes it an ideal place to walk around as there are no traffic jams and no smog. The city is not very big and it is possible to walk from one end to the other in approximately one hour.

Can you walk around Venice on foot?

One of the pleasures of visiting Venice on your Italian adventure will be strolling alongside the canals through the traffic-free streets and narrow medieval alleyways.

This city has changed very little in the last 600 years and it has so much wonderful romantic architecture to get lost in.

In order to truly experience Venice, it is recommended to simply start wandering in whatever direction suits your fancy and get completely lost in the winding streets.

Can you walk all of Venice?

You are on an island so you won’t be able to get too far, but you will find yourself discovering the most beautiful hidden architecture, canals and artwork.

When you have had your fill, you can ask for directions back to the main attractions such as San Marco or Rialto.
 


Things to do in Venice Italy

 

How do you get around Venice for cheap?

The main form of public transport is the vaporetti or the water taxis. They are one of the best ways to get around and the typical fare for one journey is around 7 Euro. This can get expensive so if you are trying to save money you should try to walk to your destinations as much as possible. Taking a vaporetto every now and then can be a convenient way to get around and save time.

You can get a discount card which will save you money if you plan on being in Venice for more than a few days. These days, it is possible to book online for public transport which can make things cheaper than the on-site prices.

If you want to take a “cruise” down the Grand Canal to get the best overview of the city, the main vaporetto line is #1. It runs the length of the Grand Canal and stops between the train station and the Piazza San Marco, taking about an hour to go the entire way. This is a lovely way to see the sights and experience a ride on the canal.
 

What should I see in Venice Italy?

Venice is very walk-able with sufficient breaks in between. The main part of Venice which is the Rialtine Islands can be walked from one end to the other within an hour, provided you know the areas well. But for others, public water transport is always the best option.

A Venice card entitles you to visit the museums and use transportation in a combination of choices. But it makes sense to buy one only if you are in Venice for more than 3-4 days. You could also visit the other islands of Murano for seeing how glass is made and visit the famous glass museum there; or travel to Burano, famous for its lace production, textiles and streets lined with houses, each painted in a different pastel shade and color.

Whatever you hope and anticipate for on your trip, Venice gifts you a holiday beyond your expectations.

Canals of Venice – the most romantic ride ever

Canals of Venice: Truman Capote once said that

 

“Venice is like eating an entire box of chocolate liqueurs in one go.” And never get sick of it, we may add.

 

This is a place so dreamy and exciting, that it’s simply disrespectful not to explore it to its fullest. And the best way to do that is to go around its canals.

What to see & to do: All major attractions in Venice could be explored by riding a boat along the city’s vast system of canals. So if you don’t feel like walking or you just want to experience Venezia Italy at its best, that’s the way to do it.

Taking a ride on the canals could be a tricky thing. First of all, you should be aware of the prices. Venetian Gondolas are usually more expensive than all other means of transportation and that’s pretty much it. They don’t give better service or anything. However, riding a gondola when in Venice is the ultimate experience, even if it’s just for taking a few pictures.

The Vaporetti are probably the most convenient and inexpensive means of public transportation and the private water taxis are also a great way to get around.

The Grand Canal (Canal Grande) –

naturally, this is Venice’s biggest attraction when it comes to canals (and it always does around here). Start from the lagoon near the Santa Lucia railway station and end up to the Saint Mark Basin; or vice versa. Enjoy the surrounding landscapes of small, colorful structures and decaying (but in a good way) cobbled narrow streets. Most city squares (piazzas) deserve your attention as they show off the former Venetian Republic’s welfare and grandeur. You’ll pass under the famous Rialto Bridge and enjoy it from beneath.

Useful tips: Many tourists complain about the smell in the city. Remember that such an extensive channel system could not go without some minor stink. The intensity of smell also depends on the weather conditions, time of the year, and so on. This is one of the city’s charms and you’re experience here wouldn’t be the same without it.

Pass down the Bridge of Sighs on a gondola, on sunset, when the bells of San Marco toll in the distance and kiss your loved one right at that very spot. It’s said to grant you eternal love and happiness with your sweetheart.

 

4) For those who want a peaceful and relaxing vacation, Positano is the perfect Italian destination.

It is located in Campania, Italy, and is most famous for it being a sophisticated resort at the center of the Amalfi coast. During the 1950’s, famous author John Steinbeck wrote an article about the location, praising it for its beauty. Soon after, Positano attracted droves of tourists and many poets and songwriters have written their works of art in cafes that overlooked the sea waters.

Famous sights include:

  • the Footpaths of the Gods, with breathtaking picturesque views of the village,and
  • the Spiaggia del Fornillo-a fashionable beach resort area.
  • Positano also has charming boutiques that cater to the tourist who love collecting local artistry and fashion.
     

    Beauty Abides On This Positano Italy Vacation

    Spend a day or two in picturesque Positano, Italy and you will find yourself lost in its indescribable beauty and amazing architecture. Located on the Italian coastline, the homes and businesses appear as though they are built right into the side of a cliff (which in most cases, they are!). Known for its mild and comfortable climate, Positano has become a busy tourist market for those wanting to experience the beautiful Italian coastline without the addition of the blazing hot sun that generally accompanies these little seaside towns.

    The homes and businesses are all clumped together in sort of a maze, which simply adds to the allure and mystery of this beautiful city.

    The white rock buildings with brightly colored roofs, doors and flowers are a fun and interesting contrast to each other overlooking the turquoise blue water and are a dream comes true to photography lovers who spend hours upon hours each day capturing the many characteristics of these buildings.

    Commerce in Positano

    Positano is well known for their fabric. From plain white to bright floral patterns, the town has become infamous for creating beautiful fabrics and is widely used around the world.

    When you visit this lovely town, do yourself a favor and pick up some of this beautiful fabric. You’ll be glad you did! Strangely enough, Positano is also well known for their shoes! From sandals and clogs to flip flops and bedroom slippers, there are many different types of shoes that can be made for you, by hand, by one of the many cobblers making their living in Positano.

    A custom pair of shoes can be made in a very little amount of time as you wait outside taking in the breathtaking views! How many times do you think you will be able to say that you got a custom pair of designer shoes on a vacation? Not many, I suspect, so take advantage of it while you can!

    Simple Beautiful

    The beauty that encompasses a Positano is truly a sight to behold. Besides the breathtaking views of the pristine seaside waters and the unbelievable architecture surround all of the hillside homes and businesses, you will also bear witness to a plethora of other gorgeous sights that will take your breath away.

    Countless groves of lemon and orange trees full of fruit so large, you will not think it is real (I assure you it is!) welcome you around every corner. Cars are not allowed inside of the city and your bags can be transported throughout the city (to your designated hotel) with the aid of Porters.

    Positano is meant to be explored on your feet, so if you are not in the best shape, or have trouble walking on cobblestone streets, it is best to skip this town. However, it would be a shame to miss the beauty of this glorious town, so do whatever you can to make sure that you fit in a day or two in lovely Positano this place rock!

    5) Amalfi is a municipality in the province of Salerno, just southeast of Naples, whose trademark is its popular lemon stands along the coast.

    British upper class in the twenties and thirties made Amalfi a popular holiday destination and it has remained such ever since. Its must see sights include:

  • the Museum of Handmade Paper and
  • the Gothic architecture of St. Andrews Cathedral.
  • Take an Enchanting Vacation to the Island Of Capri Italy

    The Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful places in the entire world. Not just for the gorgeous turquoise blue waters and warm climate, but for the many small little islands located up and down the coast. The island of Capri is one of these islands which attract thousands upon thousands of visitors each year with its enchanting buildings and glorious views.

     


    Vacation Rental Marketing

     

    Once a favorite of Roman emperors, the island of Capri is now one of the must see places reserved for all. A Capri Italy vacation gives you a taste of the beautiful Italian coastline while it charms you with an endless amount of fragrant lemon trees (with lemons the size of your head) and sweet smelling flowers which seems to put in a euphoric trans as you experience the beauty of this island.

    A day trip is usually all you need when visiting the island of Capri.

    You certainly can choose to spend a night or two on this beautiful island (a perfect romantic getaway from a special occasion perhaps), but a good full day on Capri can give you a hearty dose of what this island is about. You can access the island of Capri via ferries and hydrofoils from Naples and Sorrento. You can expect approximately 10,000 tourists each day (especially during the busy tourist season), so visiting on the off season (spring and fall) may be a wise choice if you are only able to visit for a day.
     


    Capri Italy Travel Guide

     

    Capri’s Limoncello

    The island of Capri is well known for their lemons, more specifically, their limoncello which is a lemon liquor in where the lemons are fermented and soaked in a highly concentrated alcohol resulting in a very strong and very pungent (but aesthetically pleasing!) taste. You will find many shops specializing in the sale of limoncello on Capri as well as many limoncello tastings! You will also find lovely ceramic pieces, handmade by local artisans as well as aromatic perfumes made by locals as well.

    The Blue Grotto

    One of the most spectacular sights to behold on your Capri Italy vacation is a visit to the Blue Grotto. It is a cave on the island made famous by its refraction of sunlight which turns the water into a startlingly blue color. The cave is only accessible via a small row boat. There comes a point during your ride where you must lie down flat inside of the row boat in order to enter the cave.

    This in and of itself is a thrilling event. Once inside the Grotto, you will bear witness to the spectacular crystal blue water. Since only a few boats are allowed in the grotto at one time, your trip, though short, will be quiet and appreciated.

    6) Siena is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a city in Tuscany, Italy.

     


    Montecatini Lucca Italy

    Montecatini Lucca Italy



     
    It is one of the country’s most visited tourist locations but is most famous for the Palio. Palio is a horseback race that is held twice a year–in July and August. It is considered to be infamous and dangerous with bareback riders racing on cobblestones. Aside from the Palio, Siena is also famous for its art, museums, and cuisine. Its main sights, the Sienna Cathedral and the Piazza del Campo will make visitors feel like they were transported to the Middle Ages.

     
     



     

    Tuscany

     


    Lucca Italy

    Lucca Italy



     
    Tuscany’s Heritage: The Legacy of the Medici Family

    Who were the Medicis and why were they so important?

    Visiting Tuscany is a treat for travellers. You get to experience natural beauty, the highest concentration of renaissance art in the world which is still protected in its place of birth, as well as stunning architecture, and the amazing wine and food for the region. What you might not realise is just how much of this is thanks to one Italian ruling family: the Medici family.

    They shaped what we know as Tuscany and changed the landscape of Florence. Following their arrival on the stage of Florence over five hundred years ago, they brought forth a massive output of fine art, architecture and even science, thanks to their support and patronage.

    The Family Held Art in Highest Regard

    Where did the Medici family live in Florence?

    The family rose to power in Florence in the 15th century. Giovanni Medici set up the famous Medici Bank in the heart of the city, bringing with it the double ledger system that’s the basis of all modern business, and the advocacy of proportional taxes depending on earnings.

    Is the Medici family still rich?

    The great success and popularity of the family lead them to become basically the heads of the city, and then the region of Tuscany, in the same century. From this position the family began to devote money to architectural restoration in the city, and the patronage of individual artists.

    These conditions, which suddenly meant talented artists were of great worth and had time and freedom to devote to their best possible efforts, lead directly to the Florentine Renaissance. From there the renaissance spread across Europe.

    It’s hard to emphasise just how important this was to the development of Europe and European ideas. The whole culture up until this point was trapped in the shadow of Classical achievements. The common feeling was that true civilisation had passed, and that what was left was meagre survival and waiting for the apocalypse. The Medici’s investment in art and progress meant that suddenly there was a symbol of things being done better than ever, right in the heart of the continent. This feeling of optimism and ambition fed directly into the modern age.

    Medici Patronage Included Some of the Greatest Artists of the Era

    Medici patronage at one time or another included Donatello, Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, which speaks for itself. Without a rich patron artists couldn’t make much of a living in these times. It’s also remarkable that Galileo, one of the most important scientists of the early modern age, was employed by the Medici family as a home tutor, and was protected from execution by their influence when he proposed that Earth was not the centre of the universe.

    Are there any descendants of the Medici family?

    Not everyone welcomed the wealth and lavish investment of the Medici family, and in fact a lot of the work they patronised was destroyed by puritans in the famous bonfire of the vanities, or decried by critics later as too grotesque in its splendour, but it’s undeniable that the central attractions of Florence today – the Uffizi and the Belvedere to name two – would not have been possible without them. And many of the greatest works that they contain owe tribute to that family too.
     

    Holiday Planning to Italy

     

    7) San Gimignano is a small town in the province of Siena that is famous for its well kept towers.

     
    Perfect for vacationers who value history and architecture, it is also called The Town of the Towers. The town is also enclosed by a wall that makes visitors feel like they’re inside an enclosed city. The location boasts of fine examples of Roman and Gothic architecture and is also known for its famous white wine. The wine is derived from the Vernaccia grape which grows on the hillsides of San Gimignano.

    8) Taormina is a popular vacation location on the east coast of Sicily.

     
     


     
    It is perched on a cliff and overlooks the Ionian Sea. It boasts of many old churches, popular beaches, fine restaurants, and countless antique shops. Its main sights include the Corvaja Palace and the Ancient Theater that still holds performances and concerts today.
     

    Palermo Sicily

     


    Travel Tips for Palermo Italy

     

    Touring Palermo Sicily

    Noted for its colorful history, intricate architectural design, as well as its distinctive culture and culinary traditions, Palermo is the capital of the southern Italian region of Sicily. When, during the 9th century, the Arabs conquered the city, they turned it into a thriving center of Islamic culture in the Western world.
     


    Travel Tips for Palermo Italy

     

    Exploring Palermo’s Cultural Mosaic

    The Normans arrived in 1072, creating what some people refer to as Palermo’s “Arabo-Norman ” period. All of the city’s other conquerors, such as the Spanish, have left their mark in the form of art, architecture and culture. Palermo thus treats its visitors to an endless list of things to see, explore, experience and taste; a formidable challenge for even the most proficient travel itinerary planner.

    If you find yourself overwhelmed, engage the services of a Palermo tour guide. Touring services in Palermo come in all forms, and appeal to a variety of travel styles.

     
     



     
    Hop-On Hop-Off Palermo Bus Tours

    Palermo’s hop-on, hop-off tours offer the most flexible option for guided tours of the city. These bus tours feature recorded guides in the language of your choice. One ticket lets you explore two different routes. As its name implies, hop on or hop off as you please.

    The first route takes you past the the Massimo Theater , then meanders toward Piazza Quattro Canti. It passes by Palazzo Steri, and the botanical gardens. Next, you ride takes you near the royal palace, the flea market and the cathedral. A Ride along the ancient Via Roma brings you back to the starting point. The second route wanders through the villas, gardens and castles of Palermo.

    Walking Tours of Palermo

    Associazione Guide Turistiche di Palermo e Provincia, called AGT, was Palermo’s first independent guide service. These licensed, multilingual guides will design a tour based on your interests. They provide free tours during specific events, such as the International Day of the Tourist Guide, National Day of Urban Trekking and the International Culture Week.

    The organization’s four standard tours include a 12th century Arab-Norman itinerary, a 15th and 16th century Palermo itinerary, a Baroque period tour and a gardens and theaters tour.

    Palermo Segway Tours

    And now, for something completely different, we present (drum roll please) the Segway Tour! CST Rents offers guided segway tours of Palermo. All of the tours begin with an introduction, where you learn how to maneuver the device. Segway tours ride past most of the major sights and attractions of the city of Palermo.

    A guide narrates the tour as you ride throughout the city. The price of the tour includes equipment rental.

    Horse and Carriage Tours: The Old Fashioned Way

    If you just want a visual overview of Palermo, Sicily, you might enjoy a horse and carriage tour. This type of tour is strictly old-school. There are no websites, and the drivers work on a cash-only basis. You will have to negotiate a price, and that may require some haggling skills. The drivers usually line up near the Teatro Massimo, the Cathedral, or on the Via Maqueda at Piazza Pretoria.

    Palermo Sicily Food and Wine Tours

    Sicily Tour guides offers a full day walking tour of Palermo’s wine shops and medieval street markets. The tour group stops for lunch at Antica Foccacceria di San Francesco, founded in 1836. Your day ends at Antico Caffé Spinnato, founded in 1860, where you sample a Sicilian cannoli.

    Should the cuisine inspire your inner culinary god or goddess, the organization also offers cooking classes at Ristorante Cin Cin . The day begins with a tour of the local markets to select the fresh ingredients.
     


    Places to Dine in Sicily Italy


     
    Palermo Sicily Vacation Rentals

    Speaking of local markets, fresh ingredients and Sicilian cuisine, at the end of one of these tours, you might feel an overwhelming desire to try out your newly developed cooking skills. Unfortunately, that’s kind of hard to do if you are staying at a hotel, with, alas, no more than a microwave oven, if that, in your room.

    A Palermo Sicily vacation rental will usually have a full kitchen– exactly what you need for creating tasty Sicilian dishes. Venues range from small apartments, to penthouses, to entire villas, where you can pretend to star in your own Italian movie. Many have multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, making them a cost-effective choice for families and larger groups of people.

    In addition to the money you save on renting more than one hotel room, you’ll save money by buying your food at the local market, and preparing it in your home away from home.
     


    Traveling to Siciliy in Italy

     

    Palermo awaits! Andiamo!
     

    Unique Things to Do
    A Guide To Tarantella in Southern Italy
    What is the Italian tarantella?

    Limoncello, cliff hugging towns and draping bougainvillea all embody southern Italy for many. And while I am never one to turn down a glass of limoncello or a chance to explore the streets of Positano, tarantella remains an integral part of southern Italy for me. I studied this Neapolitan song and dance tradition on my first stint studying abroad in Sorrento. What I would find through observing countless performances was a practice that should be very much a part of a traveler’s southern Italian vacation.
     



     

    Where is the tarantella performed?

    The Tradition: The dance tarantella supposedly began in the town of Taranto in the mid 14th century. However many believe the dance first sprung up in the 1700s. Regardless, legend has it the tarantella began as a way to ward off spider bites, specifically tarantula nibbles.

    Townspeople believed that if they danced, played music and sang around a person bitten by a spider, they would be cured from the poison. The afflicted person was also tasked with singing and dancing to rid himself or herself of the poison.

    The Music: Many classic tarantella shows in Italy involve certain staples in the music department. If you attend a tarantella show in southern Italy, you can expect to be singing along to classic Italian folk songs such as Torna a Sorrento, O Sole Mio and Funiculí Funiculá. Tarantella shows usually incorporated a medley of the most famous Neapolitan songs of the ages. The music and words tell of the culture and traditions of the land and people in this part of Italy.

    What does the Tarantella symbolize?

    The Stories: Tarantella is much more than just a song and dance performance. The stories of tarantella are what keep many tales alive in southern Italy. Those who attend a show will go through the ages in southern Italy, beginning in 1558. The performance aspect revolves around the most important occurrences in Sorrento and the Kingdom of Naples throughout the last 500 years.

    What is the origin of the tarantella dance?

    The Performances: Many travelers in southern Italy, in search of the Amalfi Coast, base themselves out of Naples or Sorrento. If you select Sorrento for your holiday rental destination, there are several tarantella shows you can catch in town including Favnonoteeclvb Tarantella Show and Sorrento Musical in the Tasso Theater.

    Sorrento Musical takes on a more traditional approach to the tarantella. The show traces two centuries of Neapolitan dance, customs and music, honing in on the daily life of southern people throughout four scenes. Guests will go from the fisherman’s story down at Marina Grande to the square were southern life transpired.

    The Favnonotteclvb Tarantella Show goes through many of the historical events in the area from the Saracen Landing on June 13, 1558 to the scars of World War II. Both tarantella shows utilize the same songs and costumes but they are two very different tarantella interpretations.

    If you are traveling to southern Italy in the near future, be sure to schedule a tarantella show into your itinerary. Not only will you be exposed to song and dance from 500 years in this corner of the world, but you will also gain a valuable history lesson all with the banging of the tambourine and the blast of fireworks.

    9) Riccione is said to have beaches that are a beautiful as the people who sunbathe on its shores.

    A popular main summer destination in Italy, it attracts droves of young people due to its active and lively nightlife. The Riviera Romagnola boasts of many discos catering to this market. But Riccione is also ideal for families with children since this municipality in Northern Italy also has several theme parks. The Playa del Sol is a top destination for it being one of the best beach villages. Many aqua parks, beach resorts, and aquatic shows are available for the entire family.

    10) And the last on the list is Selva di Val Gardena–a luxurious ski vacation destination in Italy.

    It is located on the foot of two mountains–the Sella Group and the Langkofel and they loom over luxurious ski resorts, hotels and bed and breakfasts. The location is perfect for mountain and ski enthusiasts. Aside from these, the location also boasts of ruined castles, churches and bars. It’s the perfect destination for a luxurious and activity filled vacation.

    There are many other worthwhile vacation destinations in Italy and you can choose from a wide variety of themes–from the Alps, to historical sites, to art museums, and beaches–the nation definitely has everything you need to have that luxurious and indulgent vacation.
     

    Milan

     


    Milan Location Italy

     

    Milan, Capital of Fashion

    Milan, Italy’s second capital often called “Roma secunda” for its strategic position on the map of the country and its vibrant rhythm is a city of contradictions. Modern and ancient at the same time, it offers a large number of attractions both for the idle tourists and business people alike.

    Gothic-Lombard architecture

    The city’s history began as far as 2400 years ago and in 222 BC it acquired its name which then sounded as Mediolanum, from the Romans. Historical monuments of world importance stand side by side with numerous entertainment centres, sightseeing and attractions, including hundreds of lounges, bars, cafes, restaurants, etc. The nights are often as bright as the days and you certainly won’t have time to get bored.

    The following is the list of Milan’s greatest tourist attractions that you are most probably to be willing to visit during your travel Italy.

    • The Duomo, an outstanding example of Gothic-Lombard architecture, gives way only to the Roman Cathedral of St Peter’s. The impressive 3500 statues are located on the 12,000 m2 area, and the figure of Madonnina (the Virgin Mary) is covered with 3900 gold leafs.
    • Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio – Another important religious symbol in Milan is Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio, housing a number of priceless artefacts and artworks narrating the city history.
    • The beautiful basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore will amaze its visitors with the variety of architectural styles combined in it as a result of numerous renovations it was subjected to.
    • And of course one thing that cannot be missed under any circumstances during the Milanese part of your Italian tour is Santa Maria delle Grazie with the splendid “Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci painted on a refectory wall.
    • Music connoisseurs will not miss a chance to get to La Scala Theater Museum, and the luckiest ones – may get to visit the opera house itself.
    • If the above is not comprehensive enough for your travel to Italy, come to Pinacoteca Ambrosiana, Milan’s oldest museum with masterpieces by such artists as Leonardo da Vinci, Raffaello, Botticelli and Caravaggio.
    • Fashion show in Milan

    A trip to Milan, the world capital of fashion, would be incomplete without a shopping tour. May it only be window shopping, but do view some works of Gianfranco Ferre, Giorgio Armani, Miuccia Prada, Versace and Dolce & Gabbana to fully immerse into the city’s glamorous atmosphere.

     

    Travel tip – You can do this during the fashion weeks Milano Moda Uomo or Milano Moda Donna.

     

    Run with the Fashion Pack

    The design capital of the world does not sound like the ideal location for running, but the catwalk is not the only place to strut your stuff in Milan: There are some wonderful running routes in this city, which bursts at the seams with great parks and running courses.
     


    Milan the Fashion Capital

     
    Whether you’re in the mood for a casual jog or a heart-racing run, a good starting point is outside the Duomo. Under construction since 1386, this is the world’s second-biggest Gothic cathedral and the focus for the entire city, with north-pointing streets directing you to Milan’s two great running parks.
     



     
    Giardini Pubblici

    The Giardini Pubblici is a lovely park less than a kilometer from the Duomo, where a few loops will give you your daily running fix. Head northeast from Duomo Square through the Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele, past La Scala Theatre, and keep north on Via Alessandro Manzoni. You’re skirting Milan’s most affluent neighbourhood now, so slow down and enjoy the the designer boutiques and beautiful people on Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga.

    Once you reach the Giardini, you’ll be virtually alone until school finishes in the afternoon, but you’re sure to provide entertainment for the local bistro-goers, bemused by anybody moving beyond stroll speed. The gaping is not malicious, though, so forget your self-consciousness and enjoy the authentic feel of Milanese culture.

    Parco Sempione

    For a longer run, try Parco Sempione. Northwest from the Duomo, enter car-free Via Dante and you’ll see the Castello di Milano directly in front of you. Behind it is the sprawling park. With its blossoming trees, bridge-spanned ponds, and soft gravel paths, this is a wonderful oasis in a busy metropolis.

    A run around the perimeter will clock up about 4km, but the dozens of paths within the park give you options for longer sessions. Head for the west end for the Arco della Pace (Arch of Peace), the monument facing Paris that was built to celebrate Napoleon’s arrival in Milan.

    Bosco in Citta

    Milan has introduced a pioneering green project called Bosco in Citta (Woods in the City), which gives the very convincing impression that the city has disappeared into a pastoral country setting. More than three decades in the making, this initiative provides Milan’s residents with farmland and freedom right at their back door.

    If you like, you can spend hours running the paths around the vegetable gardens, lakes, and forests. With one turn, however, you’ll find yourself back in the city, on a main street such as Via Novara.

    Escape the City

    Head outside the city limits for more secluded runs. The 5K pedestrian circle around Idroscalo Lake is idyllic, with kayakers and picnickers making a pleasant backdrop for your exertions.

    If you feel like a bit of competition, come to Milan in March. Stramilano weekend involves an elite half-marathon on Saturday and a 15k for 50,000 non-elite runners from the Duomo on Sunday There’s even a 5k Stramilanina for kids.

    Run With a Local

    Everyone knows that running is good for your health, but a new Milanese initiative means it could be good for other people’s health too.

    Run in Milan is a new project to pair up volunteer Milanese runners with visitors who want to run. The initiative was launched in July 2012 and involves a partnership with local nonprofit groups aimed at raising money and awareness for the Milan-based cancer association LILT.

    Visitors can run in safety, while taking the local attractions and supporting a scheme that provides accommodation for children undergoing cancer treatment.
     

    Island of Sardinia

     
    Discovering the Best of Italy
     

    Road Tripping Southern Sardinia
    What is Sardinia famous for?

    Sardinia tends to fall off of the radar of most travelers, losing out to Italy’s mainland or more talked about islands like its southern neighbor, Sicily. However upon closer inspection, Sardinia leaves plenty of crystal clear sea and white sandy beaches to explore. Seeing the entire island on a quick 5-day road trip simply will not do.

    And so, instead, travelers can begin their addiction to Sardinia just as I did by road tripping their way through the island’s south. From ancient temples to the sparkling lights of Cagliari, 5 days will quickly transition into an insatiable appetite to return and explore yet another piece of this great Italian puzzle. The south of Sardinia is just a taste of a whole meal of a destination.
     

    https://beiruttojupiter.tumblr.com/post/618354275952820224/via-roman-holiday-the-ultimate-travel-guide-to



     

    Is Sardinia safe for tourists?

    Begin in Cagliari: Cagliari serves as Sardinia’s main port and capital city. Travelers can easily fly into the city or come by way of boat. The city’s foundations lie with the Phoenicians in the 7th century B.C. Cagliari would be a hot spot of contention throughout its history, conquered by the Carthaginians, Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Pisans, Argonese and the Piedmontese.

    It is easy to see why so many wanted a piece of this port town. Opening up to the Golfo degli Angeli, Cagliari is most alluring in the evening hours throughout its Castello Quarter. The neighborhood overlooks the marina and surrounds in thick walls, the work of the Pisans. Its Saint Mary’s Cathedral glows in the evening hours, providing the perfect perch from romantic couples on a nightly passeggiata.

    Is Sardinia cheap or expensive?

    Discover the wrinkles in time at Nora: Just 30 kilometers west of Cagliari, road trippers can cruise to Nora, the ancient settlement just beyond the town of Pula. Some claim Nora to be the first town on the island. The Phoenicians founded it in the 9th century B.C. However most of its remains hark on its days under Roman rule.

    Travelers can troll through Norma’s ruins including thermal baths, an open amphitheater and the mosaic floorings on a few patrician villas. Try to visit on a sunny day for some of Nora’s remains can be seen underwater along the coastline.

    Slip into Sardinia’s Silky Sands at Porto Tramatzu: Near the town of Teulada, travelers should seek out the beach at Porto Tramatzu. The sands are certainly silky, velvet to the touch. The views rival the sands as the waters crash into shore in crystal clear fashion. The main eye candy is Isola Rossa, otherwise known as Red Island. Just off shore, the island glows in a coppery shade and covers in lush Mediterranean vegetation.

    What language do they speak in Sardinia?

    Go green up Costa Verde: Sardinia’s southwestern coastline has donned the nickname, Costa Verde. For non-Italian speakers, the name translates, “The Green Coast”. It is easy to see for why for the waters along this stretch take on jade hues.

    A must stop along the coastal road is Scivu, where the beach is backed by sand dunes and coral colored cliffs. The waters uphold the Costa Verde’s claim of being an infectious, enviable shade of green.

    Play God or Goddess at Tempio Antas: A final stop on any southern Sardinian road trip requires a look at Tempio Antas. Just outside of the town of Fluminimaggiore on Sardinia’s southwestern coast, the isolated temple harks back to Sardinia’s Roman days, specifically the first century B.C. Dedicated to Sardus Pater Babai, visitors to the site can walk right up to the temple and imagine themselves a god or goddess.

    A footpath from the Tempio Antas leads down to a Roman quarry, where the very stones used for Tempio Antas originated.
     
     



     

    Italy Travel Tips and Stories

    Why Venice Is Unlike Any Other Destination
    What do I need to know before going to Venice?

    Every year, millions of people from all over the globe head to some of the world’s most iconic cities to enjoy a short break. They make plans to visit a series of instantly recognizable landmarks, to tour some wonderful historic houses and palaces, and to take hundreds of photos of various bridges, monuments and parks.

    And while cities such as Paris, New York, Sydney and London are all well worth a visit, they all have a number of common characteristics that make them all just a little bit predictable to the experienced traveller. Wonderful destinations, of course, but ultimately London’s Hyde Park isn’t that different from the Jardin des Tuileries in Paris.

    What are the best outdoor activities in Venice?

    This homogeneity is one of the main reasons why every fan of city breaks should include Venice in their itineraries. This beautiful collection of islands, canals and bridges is perhaps one of the last remaining truly unique destinations in the developed world, and if you haven’t been there yet, it’s high time you made the trip.

    Avoid the hotter months

    It should be pointed out that Venice can be extremely busy in the summer months, and the heat and humidity will only add to the discomfort, so if you are able to visit outside of the June through August period so much the better. You’ll want to get the maximum pleasure from your break, so be a little flexible about the dates if you can.

    Most tourists come to Venice a little unprepared for the amount of walking that’s generally involved. The best way to get a true flavour of Venetian life is on foot, so make sure you bring some sensible shoes.

    There are times when you’ll want to relax on a gondola or on the Vaporetto (water bus), but there will be plenty more when only walking will do.

    How much money do you need per day in Venice?

    A lot of first-time visitors to Venice expect to see just the occasional canal snaking through hundreds of traditional streets, but this isn’t the case at all. In this wonderful location, the canals ARE the streets, and you’ll find hundreds of boats where you would have expected to see hundreds of motor cars instead.

    What are the best day trips from Venice?

    There are a number of beautiful historic buildings in Venice, many of them located in and around St Mark’s Square. The Piazza San Marco, as it’s known locally, is breath-taking, dominated as it is by St Mark’s Basilica and the 98-metre high Campanile. Be sure to bring a camera with you when you visit the square, because there are photo opportunities at every turn.

    Dos and Don’ts For Packing For Italy in the Summer
    What should you not wear in Italy?

    As a traveler in Italy, you might start to feel a bit inadequate in the fashion department. Italians are known for their sense of style, seemingly always donning the perfect outfit for a night out on the town or just down to the supermarket. When the weather heats up and the humidity rises, packing can pose even more of a challenge for visitors looking to fit into the scene.

    Should I carry a purse in Italy?

    If you are planning a holiday in the country this summer, keep in mind these dos and don’ts when you pack your Italy bound bag.

    You might think it is hot and balmy in Italy in the summer and in large part it is. However, Italy is one of the few places in Europe where you still need to cover up to enter churches and other religious attractions. As many rent holiday properties in Florence, Venice and Rome, some of the most famous churches are right at your disposal. A large scarf solves this problem.

    If you wear that sleeveless sundress but you still want to enter St. Mark’s in Venice,
    be sure to throw a large scarf into your day bag. You can cover up your shoulders easily and in an instant. Once you leave the church or religious site, you can ditch the scarf and still keep cool.

    Italy is crawling in uneven, cobblestone streets. If you are headed to the country for a summer vacation, you are no doubt going to be doing loads of walking. Most of Italy’s major cities are easy to handle on foot if you have the right footwear.

    What can you not bring to Italy?

    While I have made this mistake on several trips to Italy, never pack brand new shoes to conquer the country. Broken in walking sandals will help save your feet. High heels might work for a night out on the town, but they are largely impractical in Italy.

    The heat of Italy can be dehydrating no matter how long you might spend outdoors. Rather than coughing up a euro here and there for water, a water bottle is a nice solution to keep hydrated, to save a few euros and to help the environment. Most Italian towns and cities have their own public water fountains that are safe to fill up your waters bottles.

    Should I bring a water bottle to Italy?

    When I go to Italy in the summer, it can be tempting to toss in my suitcase my favorite pair of shorts. However, I never end up wearing them in Italy. Italians don’t really wear short-shorts in public. If you do, you will face unwanted attention. Shorts tend to distinguish the tourists from the locals.

    For men this is less of an issue, but women should stick to loose, breathable fabrics for pants and dresses and skirts to keep cool in Italy. Have you been to Italy in the summer? What are your dos and don’ts for packing?

     
     


     
    Joint Post by Eva Krakowski, Suzy Guese, Elizabeth Dcosta and Angella Grey, the marketing manager at The Vacation Rentals Experts – an online and offline digital marketing agency that creates marketing solutions for vacation rentals, holiday homes and brands.
     
    Joint us on twitter, Pinterest, follow our LinkedIn company page to learn more and get great tips on market strategy and solutions for your holiday properties.

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