Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Trip to Pontremoli
Pontremoli is a well-preserved medieval town in a scenic setting between two rivers. Above the town is a restored castle with a museum of prehistoricstelestatues. Pontremoli is the principal town and northern gateway of the Lunigiana region, a less-touristed area of Tuscany, where you’ll find remains of many Malaspina castles, picturesque medieval villages, and nature areas with good hiking trails.
Top 14 Attractions and Activities in Galway City
Visiting Galway City and looking for things to do? This lively yet quaint city near the Atlantic Ocean has a variety of attractions you won’t want to overlook. The harbor city is home to poets, artists, and musicians—all of whom contribute to the creative buzz that pulses through Galway’s charming streets.
Ultimate Guide to Montecatini Terme Travel
Montecatini Terme, one of the top Tuscany spa towns, is in the heart of Tuscany near Florence, Lucca, Pisa, and Viareggio on the coast. It’s a pleasant and peaceful town reminiscent of bygone days with a big park in the center, three thermal establishments, an elegant wellness center, high-quality shops, and nice bars and restaurants.
Ultimate Guide to Visiting Mantua, Italy: Travel Tips & Essentials
Mantua, or Mantova, is a beautiful, historic city in northern Italy surrounded on three sides by lakes. It was one of the greatest Renaissance Courts in Europe and home to the wealthy Gonzaga family. The town’s center consists of three spacious and lively squares that join together. In 2008, Mantova became a World Heritage Site, recognized for its Renaissance planning and architecture and is part of the UNESCO Quadrilateral, a district of historic cities in northeastern Italy.
San Gennaro Festival in Naples: A Celebration of Culture and Tradition
If you plan to visit Naples, Italy in mid-September, it is essential to secure your accommodations well in advance. September 19th marks the annual Festa di San Gennaro, the city’s most significant religious festival. This event attracts substantial crowds of both locals and visitors, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Naples.
Top Destinations to Experience Michelangelo’s Art in Italy
Michelangelo Buonarroti (1475-1564) was a renowned artist, sculptor, painter, architect, and poet, celebrated for his pivotal role in the Italian Renaissance. His masterpieces, which include the iconic sculpture of David and the magnificent Sistine Chapel ceiling, remain some of the most significant works in art history. Art enthusiasts should embark on a journey through Italy to appreciate Michelangelo’s artistry, which can be found mainly in Rome, Vatican City, and Tuscany, with additional works scattered across the country.
Essential Travel Guide to Tarquinia
Ancient Tarquinia was one of Etruria’s most significant cities. Today, Tarquinia is renowned for being one of the best locations to explore Etruscan tombs, while also standing as one of central Italy’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visitors can enjoy an excellent archaeological museum boasting Etruscan artifacts along with an intriguing medieval center featuring the main piazza,Piazza Cavour. The cathedral showcases impressive frescoes dating back to 1508, and there are numerous churches to explore. Tourist information can be found inPiazza Cavour.
Must-Visit Museums in Naples, Italy
Naples may be famous for its pizza, but this vibrant southern Italian city also boasts several excellent museums. One standout is the highly acclaimed National Archaeological Museum, recognized as one of the best museums in Italy.
Discover Italy’s Stunning Caves and Grottoes for Adventurers
Italy boasts more than 10,000 documented caves, making it an exceptional destination for cave exploration. From mountain caverns to coastal grottoes, these caves offer unique experiences for visitors. Most caves can only be accessed via guided tours, although advance reservations may not be necessary. With specially designed lit walkways, many of these caves also contain varying numbers of stairs. It’s advisable to wear sturdy walking shoes as temperatures in the caves can be chilly. Below are some of Italy’s most remarkable caverns and caves to explore.
Explore Portofino: A Jewel of the Italian Riviera
The fishing village of Portofino on the Italian Riviera is renowned as a resort for the elite. This picturesque, crescent-shaped seaside village features pastel houses lining the shore of the harbor, complemented by a selection of shops, restaurants, cafes, and luxury hotels. Moreover, the clear green waters around Portofino are teeming with marine life, while a castle perched atop a hill offers stunning views of the village. Visitors can enjoy a myriad of activities including hiking, diving, and boating.
Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Central Italy
Italy boasts 51 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with 14 located in central Italy, spanning from Rome to Tuscany. Notably, many of these locations are historic centers rich in Medieval and Renaissance history. Below, we explore these iconic sites inscribed in chronological order, starting with Rome in 1980.
Explore Southern Italy’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Summary of World Heritage Sites in Southern Italy
Essential Travel Tips for Porto Venere
Porto Venereis an enchanting town in the Italian Riviera, celebrated for its picturesque harbor adorned with vibrant houses and the iconic San Pietro Church, which is dramatically situated on a rocky promontory. The narrow, medieval streets lead visitors up to a historical castle, while the main street, accessed through the ancient city gate, is bustling with shops and quaint eateries. Not far from the town is Byron’s Cave, a rocky area by the sea known for its connection to the famous poet.
Must-Visit Attractions in Puglia, Southern Italy
Puglia, or Apulia, is the region of southern Italy often referred to as the “heel of the boot.” Much of the region is coastline with picturesque seaside towns, great beaches, and clean sea water. Inland, visitors will discover unique sights, castles, and historic towns.
Experience Authentic Masseria Stays in Beautiful Puglia
Address: SP90, 72015 Savelletri, Fasano BR, Italy
Must-See Artworks in Rome: A Guide to Renaissance and Baroque Masterpieces
Rome, Italy is rife with ancient ruins, but it is also awash in artworks from some of the most famous artists of the Renaissance and the Baroque. Discover the Eternal City’s most famous artists and where you can see their iconic works on display.
Exploring Trastevere: Rome’s Charming Neighborhood
Trastevere, the neighborhood across the Tiber River from Rome’s historic center, is a must-visit area of the Eternal City. It is one of Rome’s oldest residential locations, characterized by narrow, cobbled streets, medieval-era dwellings, and numerous restaurants, bars, and cafés filled with lively locals. Its large student population, including institutions like the American Academy in Rome and John Cabot University, contributes to Trastevere’s vibrant, bohemian vibe. The area has traditionally attracted artists, making it possible to find unique gifts in its boutiques and studios.
Explore Saint Paul Basilica: A Historic Gem in Rome
Basilica Papale San Paolo Fuori le Mure, or Saint Paul Outside the Walls, is one of Rome’s most significant churches. It ranks among the four papal churches, including Saint Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, the cathedral of Saint John Lateran, and Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, all located in Rome.