Alberobello the Alluring ‘Capital of the Trulli’

Alberobello is known for its unique whitewashed trulli homes which make it a popular destination in Puglia. It’s a small charming village with narrow streets and gentle sloping hills. Alberobello draws a crowd to see its distinct collection of pretty trulli homes. Therefore, it’s best to do an early morning visit, when streets are quiet for some beautiful photos. Moreover, Alberobello is listed on Il Borgi Pui BellI d’Italia as one of the most beautiful villages of Italy. And for good reason – it seems like a fantasyland.

Alberobello’s Trulli

The trulli date back to the 1400’s. You will see them sprinkled around Puglia, but Alberbello has the largest cluster. Due to their excellent condition and the large amount, Alberobello Italy became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. Trulli are built with stone only, no mortar. Therefore, a round structure is the best for self-support. The pointed roof supports itself atop the structure. The reason for not using mortar was to avoid paying taxes. Structures can easily be disassembled before the tax man came! Note: Trulli = Plural Trullo = Singular

Discover this Charming Fantasyland

When you arrive in town on Via Indipendenza, there are two big parking lots on the right. A few steps after you will find Alberobello’s main piazza, Largo Martellotta. Here, you will find restaurants, shops and market tents. Yum, the local tarelli (pictured below) is delicious. Make sure you buy some to take home. There is a vendor here that has bushels of different flavors. They are small, crunchy bread-rounds that originate from the Bari region of Puglia. This market has the best tasting ones!

Across from the piazza you will find the Alberobello trulli zone with artisan shops and restaurants sprinkled all about. It is really a beautiful area that has about 1,000 trulli built next to each other. You can find many types of trulli here. Trulli bars, restaurants, shops and even a church, Chiesa di St. Antonio. There are many wonderful homemade items and foods to purchase, as well as souvenirs.

Indeed, this town gets very crowded in the afternoon. This summer the throngs of people really surprised me! Think Disney! In spite of this, it is worth a visit. Go in the early morning or evening for dinner so that you avoid all the day-trippers. Alberbello, Puglia is a small village and you only need about two to three hours to see it all.

Getting to Alberobello

Alberobello is between the two airports, Bari and Brindisi. As a matter of fact, it is less than an hours drive from each.
I definitely recommend renting a car. The area is very easy to drive around and towns are close to each other.
Puglia is a wonderful region of Italy. You will fall in love with it, as I did. It is truly beautiful and unique. I suggest staying at least a week. This will allow you to see all its splendor. It will also let you soak up the wonderful culture and enjoy the delicious local cuisine. Other great towns to visit are Polignano a Mare, Lecce, Locorotundo, and Ostuni. Additionally, Matera (in the region of Basilicata) is amazing.

Great news is that Neos Airlines will soon be running non-stop New York to Brindisi flights!

Taralli from Puglia — Pointing to the market area

Polignano a Mare Italy – Puglia’s Treasure

Discover the beauty of Polignano a Mare in Italy, famous for its stunning limestone cliffs and crystal clear sea. Explore top attractions and enjoy delicious local cuisine. Perfect for a memorable visit to Puglia.

Polignano a Mare, Italy is everything you look for in a beautiful village. It is famous for its unparalleled position atop the limestone cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Bright white stone, contrasting against the impossibly clear sea offers magnificent and spectacular views. Certainly, it is a treasure hidden among the rocks. Polignano Puglia is well known for the beauty of its landscapes. Its shimmering sea and charming town add to its allure. It is well worth the visit.

What to See

Polignano’s main attraction is its balcony which overlooks the most photographed beach in Puglia, Lama Monachile. This beach is known for the spectacular beauty of its landscape and its crystal clear sea. Located in a cove nestled between two massive cliffs, it is impossible not to notice from every viewpoint. This is a public beach that we had a thoroughly enjoyable few days at. We had so much fun jumping off the rocks and simply tanning and watching the activity. Bring your own towels and maybe grab something to eat since this is not a full-service beach.

Lama Monacille — Lama Monachile – swimming view from viewpoint in town.

Polignano Rock Jumping — Lama Monachile – swimming view from viewpoint in town.

Here are a few significant sights to find during your visit….
Lama Monachile Beach (Cala Porto)
Santa Maria Assent Church – dates back to the 13th century.
Arch of the Marquis (Port Grande)- the entrance into old town, built in 1530.
Palazzo dell’Orologio Clock Tower located in beautiful Piazza Vittorio Emanuele ll.
Domenico Modugno‘s statue
Finally……savor a spectacular dinner at one of many charming restaurants in Polignano!

Activities

Polignano, Italy has many places to shop for clothes and beautiful ceramics, as well as other items. Of course, it is also perfect for a day at the beach and strolling through its charming town. An afternoon gelato and delicious dinner is always in store for you. On the more exciting side, you can take one of many boat or a walking tours. Moreover, you can rent kayaks or rickshaws.

How to Get to Polignano

Polignano a Mare is only a 35 minute drive from the Bari airport.
I definitely recommend renting a car. The area is very easy to drive around and towns are close to each other. Additionally, you will always find parking nearby.
Puglia is a wonderful region of Italy. You will fall in love with it, as I did. It is truly beautiful and unique. I suggest staying at least a week. This will allow you to see all its splendor. It will also let you soak up the wonderful culture and enjoy the delicious local cuisine. Other great towns to visit are Alberobello, Lecce, Locorotundo, Ostuni. In addition, Matera (in the region of Basilicata) is amazing.

Great news is that Neos Airlines will soon be running non-stop New York to Brindisi flights!

Polignano a Mare is the birthplace of Domenico Modugno. He is one of Italy’s most cherished singer-songwriters. He is famous for the song ‘Nel blu dipinto de blu’ also known as VOLARE. You have definitely heard it, since the song is as popular today as it was in the 1950’s.

Restaurants

Jump to my favorite restaurants here. 🍝🍕

Polignano a Mare Hotels – Where to Stay

San Michele Suite – For a luxurious stay, choose this place perfectly located in the historic center. It is a gorgeous hotel with exceptional service and beautiful rooms. Make sure you book a room with a fabulous view over the beach. Moreover, don’t miss sunset drinks and snacks on the spectacular rooftop. You will love every minute at San Michele Suite.
Address: Via Arco Bellipario 5, Polignano a Mare Puglia

B&B nel Blu Dipinto di Blu – This B&B is clean and modern. It is on the main street in the heart of old town. It is spotlessly clean with a sleek design, and it is cozy and comfy! Of course, booking a balcony overlooking Via Roma is great for people watching while enjoying a drink.
Address: Via Roma 72, Polignano a Mare Puglia

Polignano a Mare Italy Picture Gallery

Experience the exceptional beauty of Polignano Puglia, with its unparalleled sea views and charming town. Delight in a visit to Lama Monachile Beach and savor a spectacular dinner at one of the charming restaurants.

Ostuni Italy is Outstanding!

The charm of Ostuni lies in its white architecture and flowered narrow lanes. Streets and steps gently wind up and down offer glances out to the sea. You will find many places with a view for eats and cocktails. You can enjoy panoramic views that span across the countryside to the Adriatic Sea. Ostuni is known as La Città Bianca (The White City). Colorful flowers and green succulent plants make for a visually stunning appearance in contrast to white buildings. Ostuni Puglia, is one city definitely worth a visit when in this region! Read on to discover Ostuni’s highlights as well as my favorites……

Ostuni Restaurants
Ostuni Bars
Ostuni Hotels

Get lost in Centro Storico! The city’s lively hub is Piazza Liberta. Grab a seat and savor an espresso in the morning. In the evening it is filled with strollers, shoppers and late diners. Ostuni becomes abuzz with activity at night. Enjoy the atmosphere at local cafes and restaurants. You can have aperitivo and enjoy music and drinks all hours of the day.

Directly off Piazza Liberta, follow the sloping steps down to Via Vito Tamborino. It consists of a piazza with plenty of shops and eateries. You’ll hear music in the air and see a beautiful view of the sea.

The Duomo di Ostuni (Basilica Concattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta) is an easy short walk from Piazza Liberta. There is a little square in front that sometimes has a live band. And always has tables for the gelato shop next to it. There is also a beautiful arch opposite the church, making the scenery simply lovely!

Getting to Ostuni

Ostuni is only a 30 minute drive from the Bari airport.
I definitely recommend renting a car. The area is very easy to drive around and towns are close to each other. Additionally, you will always find parking nearby.
Puglia is a wonderful region of Italy. You will fall in love with it, as I did. It is truly beautiful and unique. I suggest staying at least a week. This will allow you to see all its splendor. It will also let you soak up the wonderful culture and enjoy the delicious local cuisine. Other great towns to visit are Alberobello, Lecce, Locorotundo and Polignano a Mare. In addition, Matera (in the region of Basilicata) is amazing.

Great news is that Neos Airlines will soon be running non-stop New York to Brindisi flights!

Ostuni Puglia Eats

Local Cuisine and Delicious Restaurants
First, the Puglia region has certain local vegetables and traditional dishes that are excellent.
The typical pasta in Ostuni is Orecchiette. It originates from Puglia, dating back to around 1500. A typical orecchiette dish is made with turnip greens and a flavorful sauce, usually served with anchovies and breadcrumbs.

Second, mashed fava bean puree and chicory is a rich and flavorful dish – I really loved it.
Next, a Bombette. YUM! A thin sliced pork cutlet topped with breadcrumbs and cheese. Then rolled and baked into a Bombette. Delish!
Finally, Stracciatella is a traditional Italian cheese which is the creamy center of burrata cheese. It is extremely popular in Puglia and is amazingly delicious! We are crazy about it!
Ostuni is a wonderful place especially late at night to wander narrow alleys and see all that is happening. Do yourself a favor and begin the evening with a delicious meal!

Osteria del Tempo Perso

The absolute best restaurant we had the pleasure of dining at was Osteria del Tempo Perso. Everything about it was fantastic! The food was delicious, the atmosphere divine and the staff was wonderful. We tried all the traditional foods and other dishes which were excellent. You must make reservations, especially in July and August.
Address: Via Gaetano Tanzarella Vitale 47

Dish Restaurant

Dish Restaurant offers a stunning terrace with a panoramic view of the old town, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a memorable dining experience. The view alone is worth the visit, but the great music and exceptional food truly make this place stand out. Every dish is packed with flavor, using fresh, high-quality ingredients. The customer service is top-notch. Plus, you’ll be treated to a complimentary glass of Prosecco, adding to the charm of this fantastic restaurant!
Address: Corso Vittorio Emanuele ll 37

Antico Borgo Bristot

Antico Borgo Bistrot is a great hot spot for eats and drinks. This unique eatery is built into zig-zag multi-level steps. The view overlooks the countryside to the sea. It is the perfect place for an aperitivo. Moreover the food is delicious! Everything we had at our table of four was excellent. I would say that it is best for lunch or a light dinner. No reservations are accepted, first come, first served.
Address: Via Fina 8

Ostuni Italy Drinks

Bar Perso

We loved the seats conveniently located on the steps of the alleyway. Additionally, there are a few tables lower down. All have stunning views. Very cute place with good drinks and music.

Riccardo Caffe

Riccardo Caffè in Ostuni is a great spot for an aperitivo. We just love outside seating with lounge chairs on the steps.

Ostuni Italy Hotels

This is an Ostuni Hotel that I highly recommend. It is a wonderful place where we stayed for two nights; Vico Bianco Raro Villas. We had the Superior King Room # 5 (La Terra Junior Suite) with terrace. It definitely exceeded my expectations. I absolutely loved Vico Bianco. Not only was our room, terrace and bathroom terrific. But so was the rooftop lounge area, patios and lobby. The included breakfast was excellent – as well as the staff! Moreover, the location is perfect – just steps away from Piazza Liberta.

In summary, to fully explore the many wonderful restaurants, cafes, bars and shops, I recommend spending 2 days in Ostuni. Still, the whole city can be seen in a day, making it perfect to combine with Locorotundo, Polignano a Mare, Aberobello and Lecce, as well as other areas in Puglia.
Ostuni Italy is certainly charming!

Locorotondo You will love this Town in Puglia!

Locorotondo Italy is definitely enchanting! A maze of white-washed houses adorned with elegant wrought-iron balconies greeted me. Most were dripping with pretty flowers! Not to mention, Locorotondo Puglia is listed as one of Italy’s prettiest small towns in I borghi più belli d’Italia. This lists the most beautiful villages in Italy. This is certainly a well-deserved honor!

Locorotondo (rotundo means round) is a village built in a circular fashion positioned above the beautiful Valle d’Itria. The hillside is filled with vineyards, olive groves and sprinkled with Trulli homes. Furthermore, I found a wonderful maze of pretty narrow streets which wind up to the central piazza.

Things to see and do…..

Via Nardelli is the ‘balcony’ road of town. It’s a wonderful place for you to view the spectacular countryside surrounding Locorotondo, Italy. Definitely take a nice walk and enjoy the panoramic views of the valley below. On Via Nardelli, you will find great places to sit and eat. After all, it’s time for an Aperol Spritz! You can take a staircase down from here. Visit the vineyards of Sirose Bufano Winery for a wine tasting and bites.

We had the most amazing lunch and drinks at Controra overlooking the countryside. An incredible sandwich of prosciutto, stracciatella cheese, and pistachios. Stracciatella is the delicious gooey inside of burrata cheese and is extremely popular in Puglia! I suggest you make a stop here! Ristorante 20m2 also offers the same pretty view if you can’t get a seat and Controra.

Locorotondo Puglia is a town where you can simply get lost for a few hours. You can immerse yourself in it for a enjoyable day or two. The great thing about Locorotondo is that it is not yet crowded with tons of tourists. Therefore, you can stroll around and really get the natural vibe of this special town. Centro Storico has many tiny streets to wander. In addition there are many places to sit in the sun and just take in the atmosphere.

What to See & Do

By all means, roam the white washed streets and take a huge amount of pictures. Furthermore, try traditional Puglian food, such as orecchiette. And let’s not forget the wine! There are several wineries and wine bars with wine straight from the Puglia region.

Palazzo Morelli

At the center of the old town is stunning Palazzo Morelli. The palace boasts an entrance in Baroque architecture which is the finest example in Locorotondo. The ornate balconies have rounded wrought iron railings. In fact, they are a true example of supreme art and engineering from the 18th century.

Be sure to visit Villa Comunale Park. It contains 19th century gardens and has a beautiful view of the Valle D’Itria (valley) below. There is an extremely moving monument honoring all local fallen soldiers from during WW1 and WW2. It was so sad to see the same last names from one war to the next. Generations of families sacrificed their loved ones to fight fascism and Nazi Germany. It is hard to believe this happened, in what is now a beautiful, peaceful town.

I fell in love with Locorotondo, Puglia and its locals – when you visit, you will also. In summary, to fully explore the restaurants, cafes, and shops, I recommend spending one night in Lorocotondo. You can see the whole city in a day. It is perfect to combine with Os tuni, Polignano a Mare, Alberobello, and Lecce, as well as other areas in Puglia.
Indeed, Locorotondo Italy is certainly charming!

Locorotondo is practically in between the Bari and Brindisi airports. If you fly into Bari, start your journey by heading south to Locorotundo. Spend a night or two in Polignano a Mare first.
I definitely recommend renting a car. The area is very easy to drive around and towns are close to each other. Additionally, you will always find parking nearby.
Puglia is a wonderful region of Italy. You will fall in love with it, as I did. It is truly beautiful and unique. I suggest staying at least a week. This will allow you to see all its splendor. It will also let you soak up the wonderful culture and enjoy the delicious local cuisine. Other great towns to visit are Alberobello, Lecce, and Ostuni. In addition, Matera (in the region of Basilicata) is amazing.

Great news is that Neos Airlines will soon be running non-stop New York to Brindisi flights!

My Favorite Restaurant in Locorotondo Italy

U Curdunn is a delicious restaurant serving traditional local cuisine. You can dine outside or in the elegant, stone vaulted rooms inside. Great atmosphere with excellent pastas and wines. You won’t be disappointed!

Locorotondo Hotel – My Favorite

When I booked a suite at Sotto Le Cummerse Albergo Diffuso, I did not expect the value we received. Namely, we had an entire three-floor apartment with 2 bedrooms and bathrooms, a full kitchen and a terrace! Moreover, they owned the best breakfast spot just steps away. That is to say I highly recommend this excellent hotel – you will be very happy! Definitely my favorite Locorotondo Hotel and one of the best on our trip.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Definitely a must-visit destination is Dubrovnik, Croatia. With such a dramatic setting, its title, Pearl of the Adriatic, is well deserved. There are so many reasons to put this amazing city on your list. First of all, Dubrovnik is clean, beautiful, and boasts striking historical architecture amid shiny limestone walkways. Moreover, there is a sensational City Wall to walk, a beautiful beach and great food. Let’s not forget the locals, who are friendly, wonderful and proud of their rich culture. Lastly, for all Game of Throne fans, this is the home of Kings Landing and so much of GOT’s was filmed right in Dubrovnik!

▶︎ The medieval city of Dubrovnik has been a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site since 1979 ▶︎ Dubrovnik is only a 3 hr drive from Split, another wonderful city worth visiting

Things to do in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik Wall — View from the City Walls walk

Dubrovnik City Walls

Dubrovnik’s single best attraction is its towering wall surrounding the historic old town. Offering an unforgettable scenic mile-long stroll, you will get terrific views of the city and its bright rooftops. It is a perfect opportunity for taking plenty of memorable photos. We enjoyed every minute of the walk even though there was a sweltering heatwave! Nevertheless, it was definitely worth it! Wear sunscreen, perhaps a hat, and bring water. It’s a good idea to buy tickets in advance. Purchase at the official City Walls Dubrovnik website. Adult ticket price is 35 euros.

City Walls of Dubrovnik — Along the City Walls walk, you’ll find a few cafes where you can sit for a nice cold drink or ice-cream

Dubrovnik Shopping

The Central promenade, Stradun, is the heartbeat of the city, thriving with shops, cafes, people and fun. Dubrovnik actually does have it all. You’ll find boutique clothing shops, jewelry stores, art galleries and a decent amount of souvenir shops. Moreover, you will like the authentic, handmade crafts and delicacies.
Of course, if you’re not a shopper, there is always an abundance of backstreet, quiet charm to enjoy. You can find many spots to take beautiful pictures. In Dubrovnik Croatia , you will find everything!

Beaches

To escape the heat and the crowds, head for the beach during mid-day. You’ll swim in the panorama of this beautiful city while enjoying the beautiful vista of the sea. Banje Beach is a short 10 minute walk from town. Jump to Dubrovnik Beaches to discover a few great choices of beaches to visit.

Restaurants & Bars

Evenings in town are wonderful. Croatians love their bars and cafes, and so do tourists! There are restaurants, cafes and bars everywhere. Enjoy great food, great coffee and great cocktails!
I have two favorite restaurants to recommend and one bar that you must at least stop by.
🏆 Azur – A small restaurant, hidden in an alley of old town, Azur serves delicious CroAsian food. Asian flavors in unique Mediterranean dishes were amazingly delicious! I loved it.
Amoret – Delicious Mediterranean food. Location, location, location – and this one is fabulous, right at the foot of the Dubrovnik Cathedral. Wonderful staff also.

Walking through a hole in the city wall leads you to a great little bar. Buza is famous for spectacular sunsets and views of the sea. Moreover, Buža is known as a great spot for jumping from rocks and taking a swim.

Dubrovnik Game of Thrones

There were 4 of us and we all LOVED this tour. (two of us saw GOT’s and two did not) Katerina was our guide and she was absolutely fantastic. Not only did she show us the best GOT sites, she made it come alive and gave us interesting, fun anecdotes about the filming. Furthermore, it was a bonus to learn interesting historical and cultural aspects of Dubrovnik Croatia. We HIGHLY recommend this tour.

Beach Bar Dodo

Split Croatia

Split, Croatia is a city that we enjoyed immensely and would love to return to. Old Town is amazingly charming and clean with shiny limestone pedestrian walkways throughout. There is a unique mix of history and architecture on every cobblestoned street. Moreover, you have your choice of many good restaurants and charming shops to visit. One of the things we loved the most is the Croatian people. They couldn’t be nicer or more helpful!

One of the main attractions you will come upon is the Split Riva Promenade. It is a way to enter the pedestrian only Old Town of Split. This bustling waterfront features numerous eateries, scenic views and an expansive boardwalk bordered with flowering trees. It is a pleasure to take in the sights of the harbor during the day. Moreover the evening brings music and lights which fill the multitude of open-air restaurants. It’s a lively and beautiful sight to behold.

Things to do in Split Croatia

Simply walking around Old Town, you will come across many beautiful nooks and crannies. For instance, ancient ruins, centuries-old cathedrals, open-air markets and more.

Diocleatian’s Palace is a beautiful historical landmark. This palace served as the Roman emperor’s residence. In addition, it served as a fortress for the military garrison. It is an outstanding sight to see, with exquisite arches and columns. Today there is a terrific restaurant/bar, Luxor, which occupies the center square of the palace. In the evening, pillows are set on all the steps around the square for everyone’s comfort. Luxor serves delicious cocktails and has live music. It was one of our favorite nights, with everyone dancing and loving their evening!

Marjan Park View Point is a beautiful spot overlooking the harbor and city of Split. There is an easy walking path which brings you up to the park. Along the way you will pass several churches, the last one completely built into the stone wall. Enjoy beautiful views perfect for pictures. Moreover, you will find a cafe for a drink or bite to eat.

Split Croatia Beaches

As for Split Croatia beaches, our favorite was Joe’s Beach Bar. Only a short taxi ride from town, it has beds and umbrellas for rent and great lounge music. The cost was 35 euros per bed including the umbrella. The water was wonderful and the view was beautiful. I highly recommend it!

Additionally, Bavich Beach is within walking distance to town. There are no rental facilities and you need to bring your own towels etc. Honestly, I wasn’t crazy about this beach – sorry!

Shopping in Split

Beside the numerous chic shops in town, Split offers a few markets that were terrific. A popular one is the Green Market. This farmers’ market has stalls of fruits & vegetables. In addition, they offer a large meat selection.

There is another market which we loved – the one with beautiful clothes! This market was at the end of the Riva. Some beautiful beach cover-ups and dresses are now in our suitcases!

▶︎ Split is only a 3 hour drive from Dubrovn ik, which is definitely worth a visit! 🚘

Split Picture Gallery

Best Things to Do in Taormina

Without a doubt, get ready for an Italian adventure as there are countless things to do and see in Taormina. This is an old town that is perfect for history, culture, delicious food and awe-inspiring sights. Let me give you an edge on some of the best things to do in Taormina Sicily. Here they are, in no particular order, since they are all worth it!

Taormina Boat Tour

We loved this excursion! Beautiful scenery, great guide, music and a refreshing swim!

A great way to explore the Ionian Coast. Discover the Grotto Azzurra as well as the beautiful nature preserve of Isola Bella. Be on the beautiful sea surrounded by the breathless landscape of Etna and Taormina. It was wonderful! You will see boats by the beach of Isola Bella, but better to reserve this fun boat tour!

NOTE: Taormina was a major filming location for Season 2 of the hit show, The White Lotus. Cast members lived in Taormina at the San Domenico Palace for four off-season months during filming. Locals working at San Domenico Palace say that cast members were terrific and so very nice – especially Jennifer Coolidge! Immerse yourself in the world of White Lotus as you visit actual filming locations on this guided tour:

White Lotus Tour Taormina

Experience the thrill of White Lotus Season 2 filming locations in Taormina!! Moreover, step into the scenes and capture unforgettable memories on a White Lotus guided tou r! Better yet, book a stay or dinner reservations at San Domenico Palace, (White Lotus Hotel). It is one of the most beautiful and dazzling hotels I’ve ever seen!

Ancient Greek Theatre Taormina

If you are visiting Taormina, try to see a show at the world famous Teatro Greco, possibly the most spectacular venue on earth. The Ancient Greek Theatre is amazing. During the day take beautiful pictures of the ancient ruins. In the evening, take in a show at the Greek Theatre with Mount Etna as a backdrop. There are concerts and operas as varied as Sting and The Barber of Seville. For upcoming shows, click here: events and tickets. Visit the Taormina Opera Festival for their calendar of events.

Mount Etna

A visit to Europe’s largest volcano, Mt. Etna offers an incredible chance to see lava flows up close. You can join a tour of Mt Etna’s lunar-like landscapes for an incredible experience. Mount Etna is one of the highest volcanos in Europe and one of the most active in the world. The volcano shaped Sicilian history and landscape and still affects the island today. It has been an UNESCO World Heritage site since 2013 and the smoking volcano, craters and lava flows are always an impressive experience for visitors.

MT. ETNA WINERY TOUR

Visit the vineyards and taste the wines of Mount Etna. There are wonderful local wineries where you can sample delicious varieties of wine. Visit a splendid winery nestled 900 Meters above sea level, on the northeastern slope of Mount Etna, and sample some of their delicious wines.

CASTELMOLA

Castlemola is a charming little medieval town up the mountain from Taormina. If you have a few hours, it is worth a visit. We took a bus up and walked back down to Taormina on an ancient path between the two. Included in the list of the most beautiful villages in Italy, in Castelmola time seems to have stopped. With its elevated position, Castelmola offers a view of a splendid Mediterranean from its central square.

GODFATHER TOU R

With the Godfather Tou r you will visit some of the iconic film locations of the blockbuster hit The Godfather. Step back in time in Savoca and Forza D’Agrò and become a part of the filming of The Godfather!

AEOLIAN ISLANDS

Lipari Travel — If you have extra time, you may want to take a full day trip to the beautiful Aeolian Islands. It is a 45 minute drive from Taormina to the ferry port of Messina. We loved the island of Lipari, pictured above, where we spent a few nights.

As shown above, these are some of the best things to do in Taormina Sicily! Of course you can simply roam around the gorgeous city for days or relax at one of the beautiful beach clubs on Isola Bella too! You have so numerous options to do whatever makes you happy!

Amalfi Town Italy

Amalfi Town Italy is small, historic, and has a seafront location on the famous Coast. Once you walk through the arched entrance into Amalfi town proper, you will be In the historic main square, Piazza del Duomo. Here you will find a most impressive masterpiece, Cattedrale di Sant’Andrea. This centerpiece looms high over the bustling, crowded square and is really an incredible work of art.

Cattedrale di Sant’Andrea

Not only is the beautiful Cathedral in the piazza, but you will encounter a very interesting fountain, Fontana sant’Andrea. It serves as a meeting point for tourists and a source of free drinking water. In addition, it is the place for a photo opportunity, if you can find a few seconds alone with it!

Fontana Sant’Andrea

I was surprised to see how crowded the square was! This is the Times Square of the Amalfi Coast – at least in August. There are rows of shops, outdoor restaurants, bars, wine shops and street vendors. There is a lot of hustle and bustle. Let’s not forget the many caffe’s and gelato shops to visit. The crowd follows the the main pedestrian road, Via Lorenzo D’Amalfi. It is bliss for shoppers since there is an abundance of stores, one after the other. Clothing, ceramics, shoes, handmade items- you can find anything.

If you head out of the arches toward the water, you will see Piazza Flavio Giola to your right. This is the transit hub of Amalfi town. Taxi, bus and ferry areas are located here. Additionally, you will find a few shops by the ferry station.

Amalfi Town Beach Clubs

You will also find beach clubs right outside of the historic center. It is always great to spend part of a hot day relaxing at the beach. All the beach clubs provide umbrellas and beds as well as a nice lunch and drinks. During high season, all beach clubs need reservations, I really liked the look of Marina Grande, but didn’t make a reservation. Stella Maris was the only one that is first come, first serve, but you must arrive early to get a lounge. We had first row on the water and a beautiful day!

Amalfi Italy Restaurants

My favorite meal was at Taverna deli Apostoli Ristorante. Enjoy this lovely family run restaurant, just left of the cathedral steps, at the top of the first flight. The food was great and it was so nice sitting outside looking at the piazza.

Amalfi Sensi Restaurant — Sensi Restaurant

Sensi Restaurant has a beautiful view and is inside the elegant Hotel Residence. The food, the service, and the ambiance is most excellent. Moreover, they serve a tasting menu only, with an optional wine pairing for each course.

Amalfi Town Italy Hotel

I really loved staying at Terrazza Duomo, which was directly across from the Duomo. I booked it for the fabulous view of the cathedral, and it did not disappoint! It was wonderful to wake up to that view! But I didn’t realize that the room itself would be so awesome! It was a good size, sparkling clean, and beautifully, freshly decorated.
As an added bonus, the hotel has a rooftop terrace to enjoy. This is where breakfast is served. In addition, the staff was so nice and accommodating. I highly recommend Terrazza Duomo when in Amalfi town Italy.

View from my room in Terrazza Duomo!

Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea — View from my balcony in Terrazza Duomo Hotel

All in all, Amalfi town was very nice, but, unfortunately, it does not compare to Sorrento, Positano or Ravello.

Ravello Italy

Ravello Italy is the definition of classy and chic. Located high above the Amalfi Coast’s seaside villages, Ravello offers stunning, panoramic views of the mountains and sea below. White houses cling to cliffs, along with green citrus groves dotted with yellow lemons. What’s more, majestic villas warmly welcome you for drinks or dinners. Enjoy the grandeur, beauty and pleasure of Ravello.

Ravello is perched 1200 feet above the Amalfi Coast. The drive up is a little terrifying for me, since cars and cliffs are not my thing! Yikes! However, it is quite a magical place and definitely worth seeing. You will find beautiful villas, cliffside gardens and stunning vistas.
Getting there: It is a 17 minute drive from Amalfi, 1 hour drive from Positano, and 1.5 hour drive from Sorrento. A preferred way is to ferry from Sorrento/Positano to Amalfi and then taxi or bus to Ravello. This is a compact town which can be seen in a day trip. On the other hand, two nights is a terrific way to relax and enjoy its historical villas, jaw dropping views and delicious restaurants. After all, this charming medieval village is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Piazza Vescovado is the beautiful center hub of Ravello. It is a large square which embraces its ancient Duomo. Built in the 11th century, the Duomo is a dedication to Saint Mary of the Assumption. The exterior bears a stark white appearance. The interior, on the other hand, is adorned with granite columns, intricate mosaics, and a marble chapel.

Piazza Vescovado

In addition, the square hosts an array of cafes to sit, relax and absorb the beauty in front of you. Cafe Duomo happened to be my favorite. Delicious caffe espresso and cappuccino, along with pizza and other delights. In addition, the square hosts an array of cafes with delicious cappuccino, pizza and other delights. My favorite happened to be Caffe Duomo – great service and coffee!

Cafe Duomo

There are so many little corners to discover that are certainly picture worthy. Discover the cobbled steps and ramps that go up and down the town. There is something to see at every turn. Indeed, there is an abundance of vines and bougainvillea as well as fountains and statues.Ca

What to do in Ravello Italy

To begin with, explore the main square Pizzza Vescovado. At the edge of the Piazza is a little park with stunning views – a great place for pictures. Next, at the edge of the square, visit Villa Ruffalo. It is an elegant villa with a small museum containing artwork and historical artifacts. In addition, the terraced gardens are also a beautiful attraction for visitors.

Via Roma

Walk the entire Via Roma. This narrow-cobbled street will tempt you with beautiful ceramics, clothing and a host of other beautiful souvenirs to take home. Don’t forget to purchase some Limoncello so that you can still savor the Amalfi Coast when you get back home.

Villa Cimbrone in Ravello

You must walk up to the spectacular 11th century, Villa Cimbrone. It is the pinnacle of Ravello and offers magnificent views of the Bay of Sorrento and coastline. The villa itself is a 5-star hotel – Hotel Villa Cimbrone. It boasts stunning terraced gardens that are open to the public from 9am till 8pm daily. It is truly a romantic, perfect spot for weddings and honeymoons.

Palazzo Avino Ravello Italy

Villa Avino Ravello — Palazzo Avino’s spectacular terrace over the sparkling Mediterranean Sea is a must!

Delight in dinner, drinks or both on Terrazza Belvedere at this fantastic destination. Palazzo Avino is a stunning 5-star hotel on Italy’s famous Amalfi coast. Originally it was a 12th century private villa for Italian nobility. Currently, it is one of the most beautiful hotels I have ever seen!

Where to Stay – Ravello Italy Hotels

I would love to advise you to absolutely book Villa Cimbrone or Palazzo Avino. But I can only recommend if you are splurging on an extravagant honeymoon or simply have money to burn. I stayed at Palazzo Confalone and loved it. It was in the perfect location, with a beautiful room at a reasonable price in Ravello Italy.

Ravello in Pictures

Ravello Amalfi Coast is more beautiful than any picture can depict! But this will give you a taste of the beauty and magic of Ravello. Enjoy and click to enlarge.

St Paul de Vence

St Paul de Vence is one of the most beautiful destinations in France. This charming town is a feast for the eyes. What’s more, it is a medieval, romantic village with cobbled walkways and beautiful scenery. Among it’s narrow streets, fountains and staircases, it is a village abundant with flowers and vines covering the walkways and buildings. Entirely pedestrian, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is one of those perched villages where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the sweeping views below.

It enjoys a privileged location, located fifteen minutes from the sea and twenty-five minutes from the Nice airport. Definitely an easy destination to get to. We spent one night on our way from Villefranche sur Mer to St. Tropez. I found that one night was perfect for us, since the village is small although exquisite!

This small town, dating back to the 14th century, has been a land of artists since the dawn of time. Artist Mark Chegall made this his home for 30 years until his death at 97 in 1985. St. Paul de Vence is a place where many painters and artisans live today. It is full of art galleries, studios and artisan shops. In fact, there are 60!

Hotel Le St Paul

I highly recomment Hotel Le St. Paul as it was excellent. First, the room was amazing! It had a living area upstairs and then a bedroom downstairs! Secondly, the lobby and outdoor terrace were to perfection. We loved this hotel! Overall it was in a perfect spot and everything you would want for an authentic experience with excellent service!

St. Paul de Vence in Photos

To summarize, I am so glad that I decided to explore this gorgeous village. It was a totally pedestrian town which is a direct 10 minute walk from one end to the other. But expect that walk to turn into a few hours since there is so much to see. It was well worth the visit!

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