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Do you want to plan a trip to Europe? Do you need information like when is the best time to visit Europe, how much is a trip to Europe, and what are the best Europe travel packages to plan a perfect European vacation? You’ve landed in the right spot.
Dreaming of visiting Italy? Rome, Florence, Venice, Perugia, Sardinia, Sicily, many are the places you should be adding to your Italy itinerary.
Do you want to travel to France? A trip to Provence, southern France, will make your journey unforgettable.
Are you planning a trip to Spain? We tell you what are the best things to see in Barcelona and what are the places to visit in Andalusia.
Our Europe travel planner and detailed guides to many European cities will tell you what are the best things to do in Florence, places to visit in Milan, what to do in Rome and many more cities, what are the things to see and do in Provence, such as strolling around its beautiful villages and visiting the city of Avignon.
Our articles will empower you to travel to Europe and visit popular countries such as Italy, France, Spain, and the United Kingdom, and cheaper and more offbeat European destinations such as Turkey or Romania and its fascinating Transylvania region.
Some of our most popular articles about the best European destinations are:
Extensive travel guide to Milan
Top 8 towns to visit in Provence
Things to do in Strasbourg, France
Exploring Barcelona architecture
The best things to do in Cappadocia
7 tips for a long solo motorcycle trip around Europe
Are you planning a trip to Rome? Download our FREE Rome travel guide!
Learn how to use the Budapest Card, which one to choose, how to validate it and use it and its pros and cons. Find out what are the landmarks you can visit for free with Budapest city pass.
There is plenty of mixed feelings when it comes to recommending Bucharest as a travel destination. Is Bucharest worth visiting? Is it one of those cities you should spend money and energy on? Even though a fascinating European capital, Bucharest is not as nearly popular as Rome, Paris, or Barcelona. Even though in more recent …
So you’ve finally decided to travel to Hungary and now you are wondering how to plan a trip to Budapest. To organize our recent long weekend in the Hungarian capital we did a fair share of Budapest trip planning. Our visit was pretty smooth but probably we would have done something different if we knew …
Are you planning a trip to France and worrying about making yourself understood in the local language? I hear you! I grew up bilingual in Italian and French because my mother is French mother tongue but since I’ve always lived in Italy, I admit that the French language is hard! One of the first and …
What can you see in 2 days in Budapest? Is it even possible to visit such a big city in such a limited time? If you are visiting Budapest in 2 days, there is plenty you can do. Of course, proper planning is a must because even though 48 hours is a good amount of …
So you are planning 3 days in Budapest and you are not sure how to optimize your time? Understandably, the city is packed with things to do, historical sights, and restaurants to try. We’ve just got back from a long weekend in Budapest and tried to see as much as we could, with the promise …
Cappadocia, “the land of beautiful horses”. When I visited Cappadocia, one of the most popular destinations in the best Turkey tours, I had already done my homework, so I knew I was going to a beautiful region with so much to offer. This just increased my curiosity about this gorgeous area and finding out what …
Curious about Carnival in Italy? Find your favourite celebrations for the famous Italian Carnevale between thrilling equestrian vaulting, ancient rituals and allegoric masquerades.
Are you planning to see Venice Carnival? Read about its history, what to do, the main events of Carnevale di Venezia and tips for a perfect trip.
Wandering around architectural jewels and getting lost in traditional bazaars are some of the exciting things to do in Istanbul in 4 days.
If there was one way to describe Catania, it wouldn’t be too far from sensory overloaded. Coming from Agrigento, I considered myself already well into the Sicilian mode to soon found out that our next stop was just in for new surprises and revelations. Noisy, smelly and proudly displaying a seductive state of decay, Catania, even though …
After what you study in school, you would think the world has caught up with the evolution. Well, I’m here to tell you that this is not always true. Seriously, after reading about bleeding stones, unexplained facts, globalization-challenging villages, wild horse races and the Atlantis connection, where do you think the place I’m going to …
I can’t remember how many times I’ve been to Sedilo, one of Sardinia’s prettiest villages. Impossible to count them, really. It’s the village where my mom was born, where my grandparents grew up, met, got married, and lived until their sixth child when they migrated to France. After more than twenty years of living beyond …
Many people gape at Rome’s monuments, their authenticity makes it incredibly easy to picture toga-clad muscular men busy organizing naval battles at the Colosseum, but how many have wondered how all this started? To make sure Rome’s foundation sounded as grand as its present and future, historians, writers, and poets back in the BCs produced …
There are two ways to get under the skin of a place: interact with its natives and unearth its traditions. How to achieve both is pretty straightforward: by trying the local food. And wine, that is. Thankfully, sampling Sardinian wine is quite a pleasant way to do that. Traveling the world made me somehow discover …
The smartest thing the Catholic religion could possibly think of has been to incorporate pagan rituals into its own ceremonies. Banning ancestral cults altogether might have provoked too many protests and caused general unrest, so why not take the lead? This is how many ancient festivals in Sardinia, especially the ones locals have always organized …
It’s easy to be seduced by Sardinia’s irregular beauty. The island’s rugged mountains framed by sandy beaches and crystal clear waters make for a pristine landscape one can hardly forget. Most villages proudly boast a great resilience against the waves of globalization, and although some traditions do struggle to survive, locals are very jealous of …
I have already written about Orgosolo stunning street art and about its antimilitarist spirit. Orgosolo, however, is not only politics. This obstreperous town of inland Sardinia’s region known as Barbagia is home to an exclusive form of ancient silk art. Different from how they make silk in China, this is another way of producing and …
When I made the unfortunate suggestion to visit the Museum of the Inquisition in Cordoba on the last morning of our stay, just before catching the bus to the beautiful Granada, my cousin didn’t show much enthusiasm. “Are you sure?” she told me in an evident effort to talk me out of it. But since …
“Does anybody live here in Pratobello?” Smirk. “Who would want to live here?!” A shepherd from Orgosolo was guarding his sheep grazing early morning and didn’t seem to appreciate our question, and due to Orgosolo’s reputation, we opted not to insist. At first sight, from the road, that small cluster of wrecked buildings gives for …
Recently, I was invited by Context Travel to a cultural walk led by Dr. Francesca Barberini through the magnificence of Princess Isabelle’s Apartment in Palazzo Colonna, 66 Piazza SS. Apostoli, just beside Piazza Venezia, in Rome’s city center. As soon as I arrived, something looked familiar. True, I had lived in Rome for seven years, …
The cross-cultural reality of Italian and German traditions, Bolzano is a fascinating city that perfectly blends nature, history, and culture. One of the cities to visit in Trentino Alto Adige, it makes for a great travel destination in both summer and winter. From museums and historic sites to outdoor recreation opportunities, there’s something for everyone …
Find out how to choose the best hookah flavors and some pretty great tips on how to have a perfect shisha experience without a headache or feeling dizzy.
Read our full guide to the best things to do in Florence, what are the best restaurants in Tuscany’s capital, when is the best time to visit Florence and what are the best hotels to make your Florence trip planning easy and smooth.
Find out what to do in 4 days in Rome, what are the main landmarks you can’t miss even in a short time and how to make a perfect Rome itinerary.
Everything you need to know to plan a perfect day trip from Florence to Pisa. How to get to Pisa, what to see and where to eat in the Tuscan city.
Travelling to Florence is always overwhelming. The city might not be huge, but from the first moments wandering around its cobbled alleys and historical buildings, it’s immediately clear that its moniker of the cradle of the Renaissance wasn’t given by accident. However, if you are treating yourself with a longer stay in Tuscany, you can …
When I wrote the post on Pinuccio Sciola’s singing stones, I received many messages from readers asking me to post a video to give an idea of what kind of sound we think the dead matter was releasing. Pretty understandable as you don’t see many people making music out of seemingly silent rocks. So I …
One of the best things I suggest doing in Sardinia is visiting the open-air lab-museum of the late sculptor Pinuccio Sciola. I was lucky enough to meet him and interview him. “What is the first word that comes to your mind when you think of a stone?” Asked Pinuccio Sciola as he welcomed me to …
One of the best day trips from Rome is to Veio, the last Etruscan city that surrendered to the new conquerors’ fury, Rome’s “last big enemy”. It is such a shame that the civilization prior to the Romans in Central Italy has been wiped out by the mighty new dynasties of divine origins, and their …
A fascinating stormy past, cities blessed with sunny days all year round and great food are only some of the reasons to travel to Andalusia, a wonderful region in southern Spain. If you are still planning your next vacation, read on and get inspired to visit Andalusia. Andalusia is a place of wonder. Sunbaked and …
I’m always fascinated by history, society, and art, and when these appear as a combination of styles and civilizations, my passion gets a new spark. If, like me, you love eclectic patterns and expressions in art and society, go to Granada’s Alhambra and your wanderlust will be appeased for a couple of hours. At the Alhambra, …
A fascinating and rich history, a stunning interplay of different architectural styles, beautiful natural landscape, and lovely weather are only some of the reasons why you would want to visit Granada, in the charming southern Spanish Andalucia region, now. Granada has and always will have a special place in my heart. I’ve visited this amazing …
All you need to know about hiking the gorge of Su Gorroppu in Sardinia, one of Italy’s and Europe’s deepest canyons. Read about my own experience and my tips.
A trip to Andalusia won’t be complete if you don’t devote enough time to the best things to do in Granada. Sun-soaked southern Spanish city, Granada is famous for its Alhambra, and although the complex is truly stunning, it’s not the only reason that will keep you here for a couple of days. If you …
After Seville and Cadiz, the third stop of my trip to Andalucía was the beautiful Córdoba. My 3-day stay was mainly focused on the Jewish quarter of Cordoba, the charming and historic neighborhood of La Judería. If Granada boasts a style that mixes Moorish and Christian influences, Córdoba combines these two approaches to art, society …
Pearl of the southern Spanish region of Andalusia, there are so many things to do in Seville and exciting activities that make the city so intriguing and fascinating that hardly a single vacation will be enough. More likely, in fact, you will plan another holiday to complete your Seville sightseeing, sample more of its delicious …
One of the cities in Andalusia you are likely to enjoy the most, despite the unbearable heat if you travel in summer, is Cadiz, the ancient Gadir, one of the oldest European cities located on a peninsula near the border with Morocco. Founded by the Phoenicians and transformed by the Romans into Gades, Cadiz has always …
“Those who look for the laws of Nature as a support for their new works collaborate with the creator.” – Antoni Gaudi. This is possibly the quote that best represents the work and philosophy of this unconventional architect and one that made me want to discover and explore Gaudi’s buildings in Barcelona. My decision to go …
When I first wrote about Sardinia’s mysteries, I focused on popular tales, legends and unexplained facts that from time to time still happen. This second chapter is devoted to some studies that academics, journalists, and researchers are carrying out on the island’s most ancient history trying to answer the long-standing question: Is Sardinia Atlantis? Traveling …
Visit Su Gologone in Sardinia, a wonderful natural spring that has been declared a protected natural park. Find out how to get there, how to visit, where to eat and where to stay.
Discovering the tales and unexplained facts that populate mysterious Sardinia culture and its society rich in traditions.
The ultimate and most complete guide to the best things to do in Rome. Find out what to do in Rome for every type of holiday and traveller.
Find out the best places where to eat in Rome to taste traditional Roman food, the best pizza in Rome, street food eateries and more. Trendy and authentic restaurants for a perfect Roman meal.
Hardly in need of any introduction, the Amphitheatrum Flavium, better known as Colosseum, is one of Rome’s most visited and photographed landmarks. One of those Rome must-sees no guidebooks would ever dare to forget. It must be its look, its majesty, its ancient wisdom overlooking whimsical modernity, what has been attracting thousands of people every day …
Essential tips for planning a trip to Italy to leave out last-minute surprises. From what to pack to where to eat, to how to get around, here is a perfect Italy trip planner.
Italy is one of the most popular travel destinations the world over, but how well do you actually know it? As a real insider (born, bred and currently resident!), let me tell you a couple of things you should know before you travel to Italy and plan your 10-day or two-week itinerary. Even though millions …
Find the best day trip from Florence to explore more of the beautiful Tuscany region. Medieval towns, thermal baths and cities like Pisa and Siena are only some of the the places to visit from Florence.
Are you staying only 1 day in Milan? Check out our perfect Milan one-day itinerary to enjoy the top landmarks of the city and save time.
What to eat in Italy? Find out what is the top traditional Italian food and where to find it. Discover some of the most famous Italian dishes to order.
You’ve been planning a 2 week Italy itinerary for a while and still feel in a stalemate? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. The country is so packed with things to do, wonderful places to visit, and great food to try that anyone traveling to Italy for the first time is bound to feel overwhelmed. Fret …
Orgosolo is a small, apparently sleepy, town of central-eastern Sardinia located in the Barbagia region of the Nuoro province. It’s very well-known both on the island and in the rest of the country for its stormy past. This was, in fact, the place where misunderstandings would be solved with blood feuds involving entire families for …
Whichever region you are going to visit, chances are you will want to find the best souvenirs to buy in Italy whether it’s as a gift or for yourself to keep living your Italian vacation and dream. Jewelry? Food? Fashion? If you are looking for the perfect Italy souvenirs, don’t look further, you have landed …
The epitome of architectural majesty, Tower Bridge in London has always been one of the favorite and most iconic landmarks of the English capital. Symbol of a glorious bygone past, this beautiful building attracts thousands of visitors every day and is being used by over 40,000 people (motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians) daily. A suspension engineering marvel …
Find out everything you need to know to visit Glendalough, Ireland, for its medieval monastery, beautiful lakes and breathtaking views.
History, trendy cafés and exciting day trips are only a few things you can do in 3 days in Amsterdam to spend a fantastic holiday in what is considered one of the world’s happiest countries. Amsterdam in 3 Days: Day 1 Visit Amsterdam Old Town One of the best ways to begin a romantic time …
There are plenty of reasons to visit The Netherlands. And due to budget airlines like EasyJet, it’s cheap to get to Schiphol Amsterdam Airport from most major European cities. So why not plan a visit to the land of clogs, windmills, tulips, and cheese? Here are 10 reasons why you should visit this small but …
On my way down the Luberon mount in the Vaucluse department, my attention was captured by a modest sign pointing towards a tiny entrance. I was about to access the mysteries of the Village des Bories, a cluster of stone buildings reminiscent of ancient times and looking like the remnants of a lost civilization. Located …
S’Ardia, the wild horse race in Sedilo that takes places every 6th and 7th of July, never fails to attract thousands of visitors from Sardinia, Italy, and Europe. Sedilo, a quiet village of some 2000 people in Oristano province in central Sardinia, holds every year one of the island’s most reckless festivals. While I’m not …
Is Strasbourg worth visiting? The capital and largest city of France’s region Alsace and the official seat of the European Parliament, even though known for more political and business reasons, there are many things to do in Strasbourg if you are on vacation. Historically on a delicate balance between France and Germany, the beautiful Strasbourg will …
One of the top landmarks to visit in Rome to better delve into ancient imperial history is the Baths of Caracalla. Also known as Thermae of Caracalla, these Roman baths were built by the will of emperor Caracalla to show off in architecture, style, and luxury. The Baths of Caracalla a must-see Rome attraction Despite being …
Although Provence seems a very peaceful and innocent corner of paradise, it houses what once was the adored residence of the infamous Marquis de Sade. When I learned this piece of information, during my usual research prior to every trip, my passion for history sparkled inevitably, and a visit to the small and quaint Lacoste …
The Basilica Cistern is considered by many, tourists and locals alike, one of the best and most fascinating places to visit in Istanbul. Located in Alemdar Mh. Yerebatan, very close to the Blue Mosque, a visit to this underground Istanbul ancient landmark can take around 30 minutes, even a little longer if you love art and …
Unspoiled crystal waters, a lovely sidewalk for morning or evening jogging and gorgeous sunsets are the main ingredients of a holiday in S’Archittu.
Gordes, Lacoste, Avignon, and Vaucluse are only some of the best places to visit in Provence, a stunning region in Southern France. Discover here 8 of the region’s gorgeous towns.
Not many touristic places can compete with Turkey’s unbelievably rich history and culture that is still very present, just like in ancient times. When we include the surreal landscapes and mouthwatering cuisine from every corner of the country, we get a widely attractive destination that every traveler feels called to at least once. Since there …
Cappadocia is located right at the heart of Anatolia, Turkey, and even though it’s small, it’s one of the most popular regions in the country, more often than not included in the best tours to Turkey. It has a lot of charm and it feels like stepping into a fairy tale, which is why so …
Heading to beautiful Hungary and wondering where to stay in Budapest? Well, look no further. This article gives you a list of the best budget hotels in Budapest, providing you with a full overview of the best hotel deals. No matter if you are planning a trip to Budapest solo or traveling with a group, …
Slightly different, slightly more adventurous and slightly less-known roads is how these eastern Europe holiday packages could be described. Although “slightly” is a relatively mild expression of what awaits you if you decide to book one of these tours. These packages offer cycling adventures, as well as walking and sailing tours. When deciding whether to …
Ever since Budapest emerged as a popular and affordable holiday destination, one of the reasons to visit Hungary’s capital, the palette of accommodation options grew avidly. Along with the great offer of budget hotels, there is an extensive number of 5-star hotels in Budapest located right in the heart of the Hungarian capital. Many of …
Whether you are planning a trip to Budapest for its attractions, events, rich and unique gastronomy, or work purposes, the first thing you need is adequate accommodation that will be a good starting point for any activity. It is vital to find a place that will provide a good night’s sleep, a convenient location, a …
Are you feeling like planning out any future trips to some of the most beautiful and interesting lands around the world? In this article, we’re going to look at some of the best European tours around different parts of the Old Continent, as they can offer a variety of experiences that you wouldn’t otherwise be …
Italy. A country that is stereotyped by pizza, pasta and the Mario brothers. Yet, this boot-shaped piece of land in the Mediterranean has so much more to offer than these stereotypes would allow. Whether it is the alpine experiences of northern Italy, the rolling hills of Tuscany, the crowded city of Rome or the unique …
The world might be shut down at the moment, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t start planning your next great adventure across the world. This time, we’re going to take a look at the land of philosophers, legends and gyros. These are some of the best tours to Greece that you will be able …
Ljubljana (pronounced more or less like ‘jubeljana’) is the capital of Slovenia. Usually, when you think of a capital city, you think a big city with a lot of people, but with Ljubljana that is not the case. Ljubljana is small, charming and the city centre is very walkable. It is a lively student city …
If you are wondering what to do in 2 days in Lyon, check out our rich and easy itinerary to discover the history and the beauty of this lovely French city.
Discover what to do in 3 days in Porto to explore this beautiful Portuguese city between UNESCO heritage sites, beaches and the local food.
Ideally you would be able to spend longer than one day in Istanbul to fully explore this beautiful city, but if you can’t swing it, then you definitely need to be very organised when planning your itinerary. Turkey is a fascinating place to visit and Istanbul the only city in the world that straddles two …
Are 2 days in Barcelona enough? Hardly. One of the most alluring metropolises in Europe, it’s a constantly developing city filled with art, music, endless sunshine and beautiful beaches. The harmony of all these together makes Barcelona a must-visit city in Spain! Imagine walking under palm trees, trying some amazing dishes, and enjoying the vibes …
Wondering what to do in Dubrovnik in 3 days? Check out our cool guide packed with things to see, fantastic day trips and great places where to eat.
The Sartiglia of Oristano is the most colourful Carnival in Sardinia, Italy. Find out what to do and how to enjoy this ancient festival.
Discover the magical ritual of the Mamuthones of Mamoiada as they appear for Carnival in Sardinia and dancing around fire for Saint Anthony.
Discover the most beautiful Sardinia towns and add rare and precious stops to your holiday. Visit traditional villages in Sardinia and snap gorgeous pictures!
What to see in Rome in a day? We put together four different itineraries of things to do in 1 day in Rome if you are in Italy and don’t have more time to see the capital.
Are you planning 3 days in Malta? Check out our great Malta itinerary and enjoy its natural beauty, its cities and its many historical sites.
Find the best underground tours of Rome to explore the city beneath. Visit the Colosseum underground, Rome catacombs, crypts and more of Rome underground.
A detailed review of our apartment in Budapest. Location, how to reach it, how’s the neighbourhood. If you want to rent a flat in Budapest, check it out.
Find out where to eat in Budapest for great traditional Hungarian food, delicious breakfasts and street food. Here are some of the best restaurants in Budapest.
Find the best markets in London for street food, vintage clothes and all types of original gift shopping. Explore the top markets in London, some of which are great attractions and umissable places to visit.
Superga Basilica is one of the most popular day trips from Turin. Find out how to get there and what to see in this beautiful church of the Italian Savoy royal family.
Fascinating and historical, discover some of the most beautiful traditional local markets around the world. Iranian ancient bazaars, Shanghai’s flower and birds markets, Provence weekly markets, Herat bazaar from the Silk Road time. Each local market different products and its own character.
All you need to know before visiting Florence Cathedral: how to book, what to see, what to expect. Plus some pretty interesting facts on Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, dome and bell tower.
Travelling to Portugal? Here are some great insider’s tips on how to plan a trip to Porto. From public transport to safety to where to eat, you will find all you need to organise a perfect holiday in Porto.
Discover the best Bicerin drink in Turin, how this iconic delicacy was invented and how one of Italy’s best bars still carries on the tradition.
One of Europe’s most popular destinations, there are many things to consider when you decide to plan a trip to London. Are you unsure whether you need a visa or not? Are you planning a trip to London and don’t know which places to visit? Are you wondering where to book your hotel? Read our great London …
With so many great places to visit in Athens, the Greek capital is a top European travel destination and always included in the best tours to Greece. Whether you are a foodie, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, the things to do in Athens will make you enjoy your holiday and long for more. …
The majestic English capital is always a dream destination for tourists from around the world. There are so many things to do in London that you can stay busy for a month, but if you are staying for only one week, here are our picks. In our guide, you will find the main places to …
One of the highlights of any trip to Liguria is to take the Cinque Terre hiking trail to explore the five villages dramatically perched on steep cliffs along the region’s coastline. Coming from the scenic Roman coastal town of Levanto, the Cinque Terre hiking tours take you to Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and …
When planning your trip to Andalusia, you need to carefully decide where to stay in Seville. After reviewing several Seville apartments, budget and luxury hotels and also some hostels for some cheap accommodations, we are sure that here you can find the perfect option for you. Where to stay in Seville, the best hotels and …
In very little need for introduction, there are a million reasons to travel to Greece. The cradle of Western civilization, ambrosial food, and fantastic weather are only some of the things that make Greece a wonderful destination all year round. Read on and get inspired to book a tour to Greece now! **Guest post by …
A silent and immersive nature, a delicious cuisine, and a long history are only some of the reasons why you should visit Helsinki. Read on and fall in love with Finland’s exciting capital. Top 10 reasons that will make you want to visit Finland now **Guest post by Evan Kristine Palogan of Pretty Wild World …
The fascinating capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, visit Sarajevo for its tangled history, delicious food and its many things to see and do. From hiking Mount Trebevic to discovering its history in the many museums to having fun with the locals, Sarajevo can make your trip unforgettable. **Guest post by Gemma and Craig from Two …
When he was accepted at the Varignano, the famous diving training school of the Italian Navy in Le Grazie along La Spezia coastline, Domenico Cubeddu couldn’t even swim. Hailing from a small mountain village in central Sardinia, in 1954, when Italy was emerging from the debris of WWII, he was dreaming to join the Navy …
From reckless horse races to local food festivals to hiking UNESCO sites, many are the experiences you can’t leave Italy without.
In Rome shops displaying the latest fashion trends, the smell of fresh bread and ragù and loud car horns make clear to tourists that they are not only visiting the Italian capital, but they are also experiencing it. Because walking in Rome is an all-encompassing experience in itself and a great destination to honeymoon in …
Berlin, the capital of Germany, is a vibrant city brimming with multicultural communities and living a stylish, laid-back life. Boasting a long history and a very trendy contemporary art scene, there are countless things to do in Berlin. Have you made up your mind yet? If not, read on our top reasons to visit Berlin …
Turkish baths, a fascinating architecture and a long history that left its stormy traces. Many are the things to do in Budapest and the reasons to visit.
For years Italy has been one of the most popular travel destinations for tourists from the world over. Culture, beauty, food, history, this small European country has it all and the reasons to visit Italy are endless. Thanks to its huge cultural heritage, the places to visit in Italy can keep you busy for a lifetime. …
Are you planning a motorcycle trip around Europe? This post, packed with useful tips and practical information, will help you do just that. Europe is a fantastic place for road trips, and if you are a passionate rider, you won’t be disappointed. Going on a solo motorcycle trip always requires some extra preparation than just …
I won’t deny that despite having traveled a lot, there are still quite a few places on my radar. I have been wanting to visit Iceland for a while now. Some eight years actually, when a friend of mine told me one of the things she liked the most about her trip was elves’ furtive presence. …
They wandered to and fro, accordingly, and lost themselves among the strange, precipitate passages, which, in Perugia, are called streets, Some of them are like caverns, being arched all over, and plunging down abruptly towards an unknown darkness; which, when you have fathomed its depths, admits you to a daylight that you scarcely hoped to …
Home to Pino Sciola’s sounding stones and great honey, San Sperate, near Cagliari, is one of the places you should visit when planning a holiday in Sardinia. What would happen if bees went extinct? From BBC to Business Insider, we’ve been warned many times about the catastrophic consequences of bee extinction. After reading and listening …
Seneghe, according to the local mythology, is the town that engenders crazy people. It boasts a beautiful mountain, natural spring water, mouthwatering local cuisine and fertile lands. Yet, it generates crazy people. If you are planning a holiday in Sardinia, Seneghe is definitely worth it. But you will need to rent a car in Sardinia as …
With the extraordinary Jubilee, or Holy Year of Mercy, announced by Pope Francis and starting December 8th, from the very moment all sacred doors around the city will be open, Rome will be in the spotlight even more than usual, which is already quite a lot. While I sure am pretty confident getting around the Italian capital, …
Are you thinking about spending a holiday in this beautiful Italian island? Here are some of the things to know before you travel to Sardinia. #1 It’s a desert island. Or is it? #2 Get ready to gain weight #3 If you are offered rotten cheese, don’t take it as an insult #4 Do we speak Italian or Spanish? #5 Are you ready to travel in time?
If you’ve been following my Instagram gallery, you might know that I just got back from a blissful two-week holiday in my hometown Sardinia, which, to brag just a little, happens to be my hometown. This has obviously led me to write extensively about it, with a soft spot for the lesser-known places, customs and …
It was only a coincidence that we happened in Agrigento minutes before the parade for the saint patron Calogero started, but even if we were there in a different time than mid-June, I’m ready to bet that the spirituality that permeated the air would have been just about as thick and inescapable. The balconies framing the …
Many are the things you can’t afford to miss if you go to Sicily for the first time, and one of these certainly is Agrigento Valle dei Templi, in English, Valley of the Temples. Declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997, whether you are a history buff, a photography lover or simply a passionate traveler, the …
Confession time: in all my wanderings, the country I have probably explored less is my own, Italy. This is why when I received a wedding invitation from a friend of mine from Sicily I grabbed my Marco Polo Sicily Guidebook, packed my new swimwear and summer dresses and got ready in a heartbeat to enjoy …
Even though I’m not the biggest fan of very touristy spots, while delving into medieval Europe in Romania, I decided to visit also the Bran Castle, famous for being Dracula’s castle, which has actually nothing, or little to do with Dracula himself. But first things first. Who’s Dracula? A vampire. Do vampires exist? Of course, they …
It was the year 1516, to be precise March 29th, when the Senate of the Serenissima Maritime Republic of Venice declared official the institution of the city’s Jewish Quarter, known also as Venice Ghetto, Europe’s first neighbourhood of its kind. This is how I roughly translate the Renaissance Italian words issued by former Venetian rulers …
It might come as a surprise, especially because we are talking about a country of the deep North where winter temperatures are far from being mild, but outdoor activities in Finland are a crucial part of the local lifestyle, no matter what’s the season. Whatever you like to do in your leisure time, soaking in nature …
Between an outdoor adventure and the other, alternated with the very much sought after sauna evenings, during my recent trip to Finland I had the chance to visit Vuolenkoski, a traditional village in the southern Häme region. Counting some 500 residents, Vuolenkoski is not a newly created village, but what’s remarkable is that its youngest …
The leitmotif of my recent trip to Finland, between a kayaking session and a hiking adventure, has always been one and only: finding the best Finnish sauna in Finland. Sauna in Finland is a truly unmissable Nordic experience and luckily, you will be able to do it anywhere you are. Whether you want to spend …
After our adventure around Päijänne Lake, we headed to the highly densely forested area blessed by Sammalisto and Lapakisto Lakes lapping its shores, and here, as one of the highlights of my recent trip to southern Finland, we went for a scenic and revitalizing hike immersed in the untouched greenery part of Nastola, municipality of Häme region. I was introduced …
As anticipated in my previous post, I just got back from a great 4-day trip to Finland where I had the precious chance to soak in this northern European country’s most unspoilt corners. This is also the trip that introduced to the world of kayaking. Where? In Päijänne Lake. That’s right, since I usually like going the …
While I’ve always spent my school holidays on the beach (clear legacy of my Sardinian origins), recently I’ve been finding myself always more often craving greenery and wilderness, and this is probably why I’m so thrilled to be heading to Finland on two days from now to explore its fascinating nature with the guidance, support and precious insight …
After enjoying the beauty of, and soaking in, the clean nature of the Prahova Valley, the following stop of our Romania trip was the (in)famous region of Transylvania, mainly known for the Count Dracula’s castle, even though, how I will have the chance to better explain in my next post, little he had to do …
As promised in my previous post about my stay in the Prahova county, here I’m publishing a photo essay of beautiful Peles Castle, one of the main highlights in Sinaia, a maze of rooms and corridors, each with a different character, personality and nationality, as its owner, king Carol I, chose to adorn each space with different styles and decorations, both …
Picture yourself wandering around half-empty roads framed by slightly gothic houses with medieval features somehow resembling gnomes’ residences. Here a car passes by every two or three minutes, all in the backdrop of the dramatic, snow-covered peaks of the Carpathian range. You are in Romania’s Prahova county. Visiting Sinaia, the Carpathian Pearl I won’t deny it, I’m very …
After devoting a post to Sinaia’s pretty architecture, I thought it was only fair to show you also its green part, or some of it, since the whole region is surrounded by greenery everywhere. Sinaia is a charming little town nestled in the valley of Bucegi Mountains, dramatic snow-covered peaks part of the Carpathian range. Typical architecture …
Now in July, just for a little summer break from Rome’s hustle and bustle, I came up with the bright idea to spend a long weekend in Sardinia to enjoy some good sun and beach time. Or so I thought. From last Thursday, day of my arrival, right until Monday, when I came back to Rome, …
It’s that time of the year again. Sun, warm weather, summer vacations approaching, yet you haven’t decided where to spend your annual leave. One of the most popular tourist destinations, you might as well join the crowd and travel to Italy. However, if you do wish to travel to Italy but are allergic to big …
A photo-reportage from a typical Sardinian village, Ghilarza, which happens to be also Antonio Gramsci’s and my hometown. Stone walls, a persistent nature, colourful flowers and churches are possibly the main characters of most villages in the big Italian island of Sardinia. Being a small town surrounded by a huge countryside, houses in Ghilarza are …
Touristy yet traditional, Trastevere is one of the most famous areas of Rome. Even though most tourists like to linger here from morning to evening, the younger through the night, it may come as a surprise to learn that with so many hidden spots, there is much to discover about secret Trastevere. Who has been …
So you are planning a 2-week Italy itinerary and spending some 4 days in Rome. So huge and eternal that picking what not to miss in your first trip is overwhelming. Yet, there are some places that you will visit even if you don’t plan it. The Spanish Steps is one of these landmarks. Central, …
Living in Rome has the great benefit of giving me the chance to explore every single corner of such a culturally rich city. When I was traveling constantly and leading a pretty nomadic life I thought I needed to stop somewhere for a while to have more time to regularly update my website. As it …
Climbing to the peaks of and getting lost in the beauty of the Red Valley and Rose Valley in the stunning region of Cappadocia Turkey.
What to see and the best tips to best enjoy your visit to Göreme Open Air Museum, one of the top things to see in Cappadocia, Turkey.
Towards the end of our tour along the Ihlara Valley, one of the best things to do in Cappadocia, my friends and I started feeling hungry. Although we were approaching lunchtime and restaurant, when we stopped for a short break, we couldn’t resist the temptation of sampling some of the traditional food we saw some …
Climb up to Selime monastery in Cappadocia, Turkey, to explore the history of this 8th-century monastic complex and all its functions through history.
Hiking the Ihlara Valley is a great way to explore the nature and the history of Cappadocia. Find out what to do in the Ihlara Valley, near the valley and where to stay.
Imagine an inlaid wooden table with a porcelain tea set comprising of pot and tiny cups with around wooden chairs of the same style as furniture of a simple room decoration. Now picture busy women rushing their just-made warm cookies and pouring the adored hot drink coming from the exotic Orient to gown-clad ladies squeezed …
After my 3-day stroll in Liguria to visit the Cinque Terre, and on my way back I stopped in the region’s capital, Genoa, for a day. I got so swept away by work and travel that somehow my words and photos on this vibrant Italian city were postponed indefinitely, until now, that after Thailand and …
On the day I arrived in Liguria, just before walking to La Francesca village resort, I decided to spend some hours and my first lunch of the region in Levanto, small medieval town a little more than an hour train from Genoa. Although it was cloudy and rainy, the city looked lovely already at a …
During my stay in Liguria, for two nights I stayed at La Francesca, a resort village with its own story and personality. “Francesca” in Italian is a given name for women, so my first thought was that the village was named after a woman, maybe the wife of who built it. Definitely wrong guess. Although …
Devoting an entire day to Viterbo, Italy, beautiful and mysterious city about 80 km from Rome is an experience everyone traveling to the capital should make at least once. Steeped in history and folktales, Viterbo is the City of Popes. Hardly one of those cities you stumble on naturally, for Viterbo you need a proper plan, …
I get it, you are visiting Italy’s capital and all you want is Roman dishes and Italian cuisine. However, what’s vibrant in the city’s culinary scene is a greatly diverse offer. Mandaloun Lebanese restaurant in Rome is one of my picks usually when I want some foreign flavours. My experience at Mandaloun Lebanese restaurant in …
I used to live about 40 minutes drive from Oristano, the town in central Sardinia where they run the Sartiglia equestrian carousel, and I’ve gone past the imposing statue of Eleonora d’Arborea, dominating the square named after her, probably a million times. Woman, mother, daughter, ruler, strategist, Eleonora d’Arborea is a figure of inestimable value …
Would you ever think there was a place inhabited by fairies and giants? I mean for real, not in children stories? If you’ve been following my blog for a while, and have read a post or two about Sardinia, you might have already noticed that the island has its more than fair share of oddities. …