Posts about Italy

The coastline near Ostuni, Puglia's celebrated "White City," stretches for approximately 20 kilometres along the Adriatic Sea, offering an extraordinary collection of beaches that have earned the prestigious Blue Flag designation for their pristine waters and environmental excellence. Just 8 kilometres from Ostuni's historic hilltop centre, this coastal paradise known as Marina di Ostuni presents an enchanting blend of golden sandy beaches, dramatic rocky coves, towering coastal dunes, and protected nature reserves surrounded by lush Mediterranean scrub.

Sicily is a destination where history, devotion and joy are woven into daily life, and its calendar of events reflects the island’s kaleidoscope of culture. In 2026, there are moments worth planning your travel around in every season: from Baroque floral pageantry in May to vibrant patron saint feasts in July, ancient theatre under starry skies in summer and harvest celebrations in autumn. Whether you time your stay with epic processions, sensory food festivals or centuries-old rituals, Sicily’s events unfurl a deeper layer to this island of turquoise seas and dramatic landscapes.

Sun-splashed towns, ancient olive groves and baroque hilltops: Puglia is a region where tradition is lived as much as it’s observed. In 2026, spring processions, summer music and harvest gatherings unfold against the Adriatic and Ionian seas, inviting travellers to experience the region’s food, folklore and faith in a deeply local way. This 2026 Puglia events calendar weaves together the region’s most compelling moments, from early spring to winter lights, with the cultural context that makes each one meaningful.

Florence or Firenze, as Italians lovingly call it—is the birthplace of the Renaissance, a living museum where every cobblestone street whispers tales of artistic genius and architectural brilliance. Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, this compact city packs more cultural treasures per square kilometre than almost anywhere on Earth. Whether you're standing before Michelangelo's David, climbing Brunelleschi's magnificent dome, or savouring a scoop of artisan gelato whilst watching the sunset over the Arno River, Florence offers experiences that will stay with you forever.

Discover Putignano, Puglia's hidden gem. Explore Europe's oldest carnival, stunning karst caves, historic churches, and authentic Italian cuisine in this charming hilltop town.

Tuscany captivates travellers with its rolling hills draped in vineyards, medieval hilltop towns frozen in time, and artistic treasures that shaped the Renaissance. Whether you're drawn to world-class museums in Florence, wine tastings in Chianti, or natural thermal springs cascading through ancient forests, this comprehensive guide reveals the very best experiences across Italy's most beloved region.

Our Local Specialist in Sicily, Chiara, shares her top picks for the best food, activities, villas and more, all on the Italian island of your dreams.

Puglia, Italy's sun-drenched heel, has transformed from a well-kept secret into one of Europe's most captivating destinations. With its whitewashed hilltop towns, crystal-clear Adriatic and Ionian coastlines, centuries-old olive groves, and baroque architecture, choosing where to stay in Puglia can feel overwhelming.

Nestled in the heart of Tuscany's rolling hills, San Gimignano and Siena represent two of Italy's most captivating medieval destinations. San Gimignano is a small walled medieval hill town in the province of Siena, famous for its medieval architecture and preservation of about a dozen tower houses, whilst Siena captivates visitors with its Gothic grandeur and vibrant cultural heritage. Together, these destinations offer an unforgettable journey through Tuscany's rich history, stunning landscapes, and authentic Italian culture.

Discover Trapani's best beaches with our complete guide. Pink sand shores, hidden coves, crystal-clear waters, family beaches & Mediterranean beauty

Deciding where to stay in Tuscany represents one of the most consequential decisions of any Italian holiday. This isn't a region with a single character—Tuscany encompasses radically different experiences stacked within 23,000 square kilometres. Renaissance masterpieces and medieval streets in Florence differ profoundly from cypress-studded vineyards in Chianti, dramatic coastlines at Monte Argentario, or the ethereal landscapes of Val d'Orcia.

Planning a trip to Palermo and wondering where to stay? You're not alone. Sicily's vibrant capital welcomes over 900,000 visitors annually, yet many arrive without clarity on which neighbourhoods suit their travel style, what accommodation offers genuine value, or how to avoid the tourist traps that plague Italy's popular destinations.