Bardolino

Bardolino, Italy

One of Lake Garda‘s most popular towns is Bardolino. Located on the Verona side of Lake Garda’s southern point, it has easy access to other surrounding towns. Also, it can make a nice home-base for your lake vacation. Not only is it a delightful, lively village, but it is also the center of wine country since it is surrounded by hills covered with vineyards and olive groves.

Bardolino Lake Garda

We had a beautiful day visiting Bardolino. We started by taking the ferry from beautiful, bustling Sirmione, with a stop in enchanting Lazise and then arriving at the picturesque town of Bardolino.

Lake Garda

One of the first things we noticed, was the tranquil marina filled with colorful motor boats. It definitely made me want to take a picture of the vivid part of daily life here. In addition, long lakeshore promenades add to the charm of village. There are many photo opportunities on the promenade, so definitely take a walk with your camera.

Bardolino’s historic center has a beautiful blend of narrow stone alleys and pretty pastel buildings. The town is fairly compact, therefore it is an easy walk from one end to the other. It is certainly lively with numerous shops, cafes and restaurants. The evening comes alive with several bars and clubs.

Restaurants in Bardolino use the local fish and fresh produce from their crops. In addition Bardolino is famous for it’s namesake red wine, Bardolino and for their Rosé, Chiaretto,

Lake Garda

San Severo is a Romanesque church that has beautiful frescos and is worth a visit. Also visit the church “Santa Maria” in Cisano and the Olive Oil Museum which is on Gardesana state road. 

Things to Do in Bardolino

You can find many things to do and keep busy in this town. First of all land sports include golf and tennis and of course hiking trails. You can even horseback ride, and mountain bike. Secondly there are many water sports available along the lake. Let’s not forget to visit some wineries. You will be able taste the area’s unique vintage, Bardolino DOC.

Bardolino Marina
Bardolino

Villefranche sur-Mer, France

Villefranche sur Mer

Villafranche sur Mer

Certainly one of the most charming villages on the French Riviera  – actually it’s my favorite!

Villefranche sur Mer is positioned on a beautiful bay between Monaco and Nice.  Alongside its attractive harbor are cafes, restaurants and boats bobbing in the Mediterranean. If you are looking for a classic old town village with class and beauty, this is for you. This charming old town winds its way up narrow cobblestone streets with colorful buildings. Moreover, flowers, plants and ivy adorn the walkways, balconies and buildings.  There are boutiques and cafes scattered all around. This town is a feast for your eyes and joy for your soul.                                                                                                                                       Villefranche sur MerMoreover, the restaurants here are incredibly delicious!  I have been lucky enough to travel here 5 times and each and every visit just outdoes the last with the amazing food – just superb! Villefranche is a wonderful summer vacation spot, sometimes more busy than others due to cruise ships visit.

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Lazise boats

Lazise, Italy

Lazise Italy is a charming lakeside village on Lake Garda’s southeast shore with an old town dating back to the 12th century. Not only is it a picturesque, pristine village, but it also has an upscale, impressive vibe. In fact, the lakefront promenade was designed in an exceptionally elegant fashion. Furthermore, you will be happy to discover a wide range of shops and restaurants sprinkled in the charming alleys of town. To be sure, I found it to be one of my favorite southern villages on Lake Garda.

Lazise Harbor
The picturesque harbor promenade.

The first thing to stand out when visiting Lazise, is it’s alluring 9th century medieval castle, Castello Scaliger di Lazise. Moreover, at the center of the village lies Lazise’s attractive busy harbor. Here, the ferries and boats glide frequently alongside the shore. In addition, Vittorio Emanuele Square is a delightful grand piazza containing a beautiful Romanesque church.

Lazise Lake Garda
Lazise with a view of Castello Scaligero di Lazise on the left

The lakeside promenade is bustling with people enjoying the wonderful view or enjoying the many bars, restaurants, cafes and gelato shops.

All things considered, yes, it’s worth the visit! In fact, Lazise is only a 30 minute drive from Verona and a short ferry ride from Sirmione.

Lazise Photo Tour

Lovely little areas to discover

Photos always help me with getting to know a destination. Here is a photo tour of my time in Lazise…..

Vittorio Emanuele Square
Lazise Village
A delightful and attractive old town to browse, shop and find a quaint cafe
Such a enchanting harbor and promenade! Just beautiful!
Lazise
Cute little buildings everywhere!

By and large, Lazise Italy is one of the most important villages on Lake Garda. Especially because of its natural beauty, a white sandy beach, and several water and land sport options. In addition, it is in close proximity to Gardaland and Canevaworld parks – both great for families with children.


Taormina Travel

Taormina Italy

Perched upon a cliff above the shimmering sea, adorned with a backdrop of majestic mountains, Taormina Italy, is the sparkling jewel of Sicily. The natural beauty is definitely a feast for your eyes. In the first place, you will admire spectacular panoramic views of the sea. Secondly, you will also have a stunning view of famous Mount Etna idly smoking in the distance.
Taormina TravelIn addition, Taormina boasts a magnificent town center.  Taormina’s main gathering place, Piazza IX April, has amazing views of the sea below.  It is in the center of town and a great place to eat, drink, listen to music and people watch.

 Piazza Aprile

The ancient city of Taormina is completely walkable and attractive.  For instance, flowers tumbling down balconies of pretty buildings and flowering oleander trees, just skyrocket the level of charm.  Furthermore, narrow cobblestone streets with cute little shops set the stage for delight!  It really is that good! The main pedestrian street, Corso Umberto, is simply charming.  In addition, there are two main gathering places, Piazza Aprile and Piazza Duomo.

Taormina Travel

Piazza Duomo

You will enjoy excellent restaurants and cafes to visit. Soak up the lively atmosphere of magnificent Taormina Italy. It is filled with people strolling along cobblestone streets browsing and shopping in numerous luxury and local stores.

Piazza Aprile is a wonderful gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. It is a joy to hear local musicians play classic Italian songs.  Moreover, as I previously mentioned, the piazza has a magnificent view that will keep you mesmerized.

Read the Best of Taormina

Taormina Sicily

Picture perfect views!

For a bit of history, don’t miss the impressive and famous Greek Amphitheater. Meanwhile, don’t forget to visit the beautiful beaches. Ride the Funicular (cable car) down to the picturesque bay and beaches of Taormina Mare. All the beach clubs have delicious restaurants and also rent beds, towels and umbrellas.
Shopping All things considered; Taormina Sicily should be on the top of your list when you visit Italy

The Best of Taormina Sicily……..

HOTELS IN TAORMINA
Taormina Hotels

Taormina has fantastic world class hotels, luxury boutique hotels and wonderful B&B’s. Some have pools and most have stunning views.  Go to my TAORMINA HOTEL GUIDE for great hotel suggestions.

RESTAURANTS IN TAORMINA
Taormina Restaurants

Italy is known for its delicious cuisine and the amazing food in Sicily is one of the reasons why!  There are so many regional specialties and delicious fresh ingredients, not to mention the wine. Go to my Taormina Restaurant Guide for some great suggestions.

NIGHTLIFE IN TAORMINA

Daiquiri Lounge

The town is energized and alive at night.  You will find a vast choice of things to do and places to go.  Dancing, cocktails, music or just getting gelato.  Check out my guide to Taormina Nightlife.

TAORMINA BEACHES
Isola Bella

THINGS TO DO in TAORMINA

Chiesa di San Giuseppe

Chiesa di San Giuseppe

To me, the Church of San Giuseppe is one of the most splendid.  It was built in the 17th century in grand Baroque style and dedicated to Saint Joseph.  Its beauty dominates the main square of the town, Piazza IX Aprile.

Get ready for an Italian adventure listed on my Things to Do in Taormina post!


Oia Santorini

Oia Santorini

OIA Santorini is Paradise in the Greek Islands

When you visit the village of Oia Santorini, it seems like you stepped into a fantasy.

First of all, Oia Greece is one of the most spectacular places I’ve ever traveled to. It is known for it’s devastatingly gorgeous views, amazing sunsets and sloping cliffs. A volcanic eruption thousands of years ago gave Santorini its distinctive crescent shape, sheer cliffs and shimmering bay called the Caldera. It has entranced visitors and locals alike ever since. Oia is perched high upon a soaring cliff making views of the infinite blue Aegean sea sensational and endless. Furthermore, the charming, iconic whitewashed homes, labyrinth of narrow streets and blue domes truly magnify its beauty. Oia is beyond doubt, a feast for your eyes!Oia Santorini

Oia Santorini is busy with tourists strolling the streets visiting the multitude of shops, cafes, restaurants, and art galleries. In addition, it is a hot spot for honeymooners and long-time couples alike. Most of all, the beautiful village of Oia has hypnotic vistas, jaw-dropping views and colorful sunsets into the sea that you will remember for a lifetime. When you visit Greece, and the Greek Islands don’t miss out on visiting Oia Greece.

Oia Sunset                   

Oia Santorini Sunset
The magnificent sunset-watching hour is a major event in Oia Santorini.  Crowds gather on the terraces, walls steps and main pedestrian street at the tip of the cliff in order to see this beautiful event!  All the cobblestone streets are clogged!  There is actually a spectator look-out area by the Byzantine Castle, but go early in order to get a good seat!  Better yet, grab a spot in a restaurant or cafe and take in the spectacle with some delicious Greek wine.  Opa!

Nightlife in Oia Santorini

The restaurant and cafe scene is tremendously busy in Oia, but for clubs and dancing, you would have to visit Fira. Using public buses is a convenient and inexpensive way to get around, with many departure times. For schedules, check Santorini Public Buses.
Cost: Oia to Fira is EUR 1.80  (EUR 2.30 after midnight) and takes about 25 minutes.

Things to Do in Oia Santorini

Amoudi Bay

Three hundred steps down from the village of Oia Santorini is the charming, quiet port of Amoudi. Here you will find several traditional tavernas that serve fresh caught fish and octopus.  Looking up, you will see the picturesque whitewashed houses of Oia in the distance with red cliffs all around you.  The water is crystal clear and sparkling blue.  You can walk along the bay on the big rocks or take a refreshing swim. Remember to take your camera because you will get some great shots on the steps and by the water.  Believe it or not, walking down gives your legs a workout because the steps are a few strides deep and slanted downward. Consequently walking up is a vigorous hike.  Wear good shoes/sneakers.  Alternatively, you can take a taxi or bus.
Fun Fact:  The movie, Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, was filmed at Amoudi Bay in Oia Santorini Greece.

 Byzantine Castle Ruins

Formerly a 15th-century castle, today you will find ruins of a tower here.  Notably, the best panoramic views of Santorini are seen from these ruins. The view from the citadel boasts picturesque whitewashed buildings, a windmill, and the azure sea beneath spectacular cliffs. A photographers dream!  Also this is the best spot to see Oia’s spectacular sunset.

Catamaran Excursion on the Sunset Oia

Oia Santorini Sunset Oia Catamaran

Sunset Oia 74′ Catamaran

Enjoy a morning or sunset cruise on a 74′ catamaran!  It is a wonderful way to see the beautiful vista of the red cliffs and villages perched above. Included is a delicious BBQ, beer, wine and soft drinks.  You can sun on the catamaran’s trampoline or sit in comfortable lounge seats.  It stops at the Red beach and White beach for swimming and snorkeling. In addition, it stops at the Hot Springs for swimming and a mud bath. The morning cruise time is 9:30-2:30. You can also take an afternoon cruise to see the  spectacular sunset.  A memorable, wonderful day is in store for you!  Departures are from Amoudi Bay in Oia.

The Best of Oia Santorini……….

OIA HOTELS

Note: Check out Santorini Greece Hotels for hotels in other areas of Santorini.

Oia Santorini RESTAURANTS

Jump to Santorini Restaurants  for great food in other villages.

OIA BEACHES

There are several lovely beaches in Oia, some of which are accessible by climbing steps. Although it may be a bit of a strenuous activity, it is definitely worth it. These are the beaches of Armeni, Ammoudi, Baxedes, Katharos and Koloumbos.

Katharos Beach, Oia Santorini

Oia Santorini Katharos Beach

This is a very quiet and beautiful small beach with black sand and pebbles.  From Oia, Katharos Beach is only a 15 minute walk down the cliff steps and on a path.  On the way down, there is a cute cafe where you can get a nice lunch.  There are no facilities, therefore, bring your towels.

Jump to Santorini Beaches for beaches in other villages

Kamari Beach, Santorini
Kamari Beach

A fun suggestion is to rent an ATV or scooter for a 35 minute ride to a very popular beach resort, Kamari Beach.  Karmari Beach is a totally different vibe that Oia.  Kamari’s long  sandy beach is crowded with plenty of sun worshippers.  Oh, did I mention that the sand is black?  Furthermore, the beach is lined with a multitude of cafe’s, restaurants, boutiques, stores and tourists. Public bus to Kamari Beach (Santorini Public Buses) takes about 45 minutes with a change in Fira.

Travel Directions to Oia Santorini

From Athens

By Ferry:  A high speed ferry from Athens to Santorini is about a 5 hour trip. On some ferries you can sit out on the decks and get an awesome view of the cliffs and caldera when entering the port of Fira, Santorini.   The SeaJets Ferries or the Blue Star Ferries leave from the popular Athens port of Piraeus, typically about 7am in the morning arriving about 12 noon.

Once arriving at the Port in Fira, you can get to you destination in Oia Santorini by:

  • Hotel Transfer
  • Private Transfer
  • Taxi
  • Bus:  Take a bus from Fira Port up to Fira town.  Then transfer to a bus from Fira to Oia (30 minutes).  You can pay when you board the bus.
  • Boat:  There are speedboat transfers to Amoudi Port and then take a bus up to Oia village

By Air:  Flights are a much faster option.  From Athens Airport (ATH) into Fira, Santorini (JTR), the flight time is only 45 minutes. Check flights with RyanAir, Olympic/Aegean and Sky Express.

  • Hotel Transfer
  • Private Transfer
  • Rent a Car:  Car rentals are available at the airport.  At the entrance of Oia village is a car park where you can leave your vehicle.
  • Bus:  From Airport to Fira and then a change of bus from Fira to Oia Santorini

SANTORINI FESTIVALS and EVENTS

Santorini Jazz Festival – Kamari

If you love jazz music, the Santorini Jazz Festival will entertain you with famous Greek and international performers.  This three-day summer festival takes place in July,  and attracts a big crowd of jazz music fans.  It is held in the beach town of Kamari.

Aegean Regatta

Aegean Regatta

August 18-26, 2018.  Do you like boats and the gorgeous blue sea?  Did you ever dream of sailing in a regatta? This is the biggest international open sea sailing race in Greece.  The regatta begins in the small, quaint island of Skyros and competitors will make stops at other islands before finishing in Sammos.  This exciting event covers 190 nautical miles.  Check out AegeanRegatta for more information or to register for your experience of a lifetime!

Megaro Gyzi Festival

This annual festival takes place during the month of August and features a series of concerts and art exhibitions.  The iconic Gyzi Mansion in Fira hosts this festival.  For more information, go to gyzimegaron.gr.

Ifestia Festival

The Ifestia Festival (Greek Volcano festival) This festival takes place in August and is all about the history of Santorini’s volcanic eruption.  There are concerts, performances, fireworks and many other happenings at this festival.

International Music Festival – Fira

The International Music Festival welcomes artists from the international music scene to perform at the Nomikos Conference Centre in Fira . This two-week festival takes place during the first few weeks in September. Source: www.greeka.com


Sirmione, Italy

Sirmione Italy

Sirmione Italy is a beautiful, small resort town on Lake Garda’s southern tip. We loved this beautiful, colorful little village and it is definitely worth a visit when you’re in Italy. During the tourist season, it is bustling with people walking the mostly pedestrian cobblestone streets. In fact, I found it to be a perfect home base for visiting other nearby towns of Lake Garda via ferry.

Sirmione Castle Lake Garda Italy

Things to do in Sirmione Italy

Sirmione is picturesque, vibrant and totally walkable. The historical center has no shortage of cafes, restaurants and bars. Of course there are many boutiques and stores for those who love to shop. In addition, you have a choice of two beaches to enjoy fun in the sun. Not to mention, you will find the ferry conveniently located right in the middle of town in Piazza Giosue Carducci. This a a very pretty piazza with many places to sit, eat, people watch, and enjoy the view!

Piazza Giosue Carducci, Sirmione
Piazza Giosue Carducci, Sirmione

Rocca Scaligera – Sirmione Castle

Sirmione Castle
Castello Scaligeri or Rocca Scaligera

Sirmione Lake Garda is well known for it’s medieval castle – the Rocca Scaligera. This beautiful Sirmione castle is an imposing structure at the entrance of the historical part of town. Built in the 1400’s, it is one of the most well-preserved and spectacular castles built by the Della Scala family who once ruled Verona during the late 13th and 14th centuries.

Castle moat – still in use!

Lake Garda

Sirmione Lake Garda

Of course, Lake Garda is one of the beautiful attractions of Sirmione Italy. The water is crystal clear and alive with swans and ducks. The ferry was just a few steps from our hotel which made it so easy to visit other towns. Bardolino, Lazise and Garda were wonderful towns and a short ferry ride from Sirmione.

We see so many swans everyday in the lake – so sweet!

Sirmione Beaches

Lido delle Bionde

Lido delle Bionde, Sirmione

Only a short 20 minute walk from town on a scenic lakeside path, you will find Lido delle Bionde. This has a real sand beach with rentals available for lounges and umbrellas. In addition, there are also water toys to rent such as paddle boats and kayaks. We loved the outdoor restaurant here with a large terrace overlooking the beach. The menu included a large assortment of pasta, pizza, panini, snacks and drinks. All things considered, Lido delle Bionde was my favorite Sirmione beach!

Jamaica Beach

Jamaica Beach
Enjoying the Sirmione Sun!

Jamaica Beach is a pretty 25-30 minute walk from the historical part of town. It has a casual small bar/restaurant area, therefore you can relax with a drink or something to eat. The no-sand beach is mainly limestone formations with a beautiful view of the lake and mountains. Since there are no lounge rentals, bring a towel and enjoy the Sirmione sunshine.

Grotte di Catullo Sirmione Italy

Grotte di Catullo
Grotte di Catullo

Visit the remains of a Roman villa with panoramic views of the lake. Make sure to take your camera for the beautiful views. This villa was built between the 1st century BC and 1st century AD. In addition, the museum has artifacts from this villa and others finds on Lake Garda.

Waiting for the Ferry
Waiting for the ferry
Sirmione Hotel
Hotel by the Ferry

Venice Italy

Venice Italy Travel Guide

 Let me take you on a journey to amazing and romantic Venice Italy. You will discover all that this magical city has to offer. Find top attractions, best hotels, delicious restaurants and much more advice on visiting this amazing city by reading my Venice travel guide.

Venice Italy is one of the most amazing and enchanting places on earth. It is a city of beautiful architecture and bridges, not to mention boats and canals. Delight in riding a gondola with an Italian serenade to charm your ears. Wander in a maze of narrow cobblestone walkways and let your eyes feast on the amazing sights around you. Enjoy every moment of this magical city!

Bridge of Sighs
Bridge of Sighs

Venice ItalyIn my opinion, this is the most enchanting and unique place in the world, not to mention one of the most romantic. Furthermore, Venice not only boasts spectacular scenery but is abundantly rich in art and history. It is a city of canals, bridges and beautiful architecture.  Where else can you get serenaded on a gondola, lost in a maze of narrow cobblestone walkways and let your eyes feast on the amazing sights around you?

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Lisbon

Lisbon Travel

Welcome to Lisbon!

Lisbon is a fascinating, vibrant city that boasts a wide choice of activities. It is filled with large squares, history and monuments as well as a wide number of things to do. Lisbon Portugal will appeal to every traveler’s taste and budget. First of all you will find cultural experiences, a buzzing nightlife, a foodie’s paradise and a shopper’s extravaganza. In addition, it also makes for a great family holiday and relaxing city break. Not to mention, Lisbon also makes a great base for beach and daytrips to other beautiful areas. I was impressed by this city – it has many wonderful things to offer! 

Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon!!
Lisbon, Portugal
Ornate doors with blue ceramic tile decor
Lisbon pastries
Lisbon is built over seven steep hills. Expect a lot of stairs! Bring comfortable walking shoes!

Equally wonderful is finding that the people of Lisboa are extremely friendly. To be sure, it is a spirited city with musicians serenading the streets at every turn. All things considered, Lisbon is truly a happy, energetic place.

The Lisboa Food Scene

The restaurant scene in Lisbon is hopping with outdoor eateries everywhere. Furthermore, there is a plethora of restaurants to choose from. Bacalhau a lagareiro (codfish in olive oil) is this area’s favorite traditional dish. Definitely give it a try! In addition, Octopus is a staple on all the menus. To be sure, you will enjoy the delicious cuisine of Lisbon.

Lisbon, Portugal
You will find an abundance of bakeries and cafes. Portugal is famous for delicious pastries and strong coffee.
Lisbon, Portugal
Ginja – a delicious cherry cordial
Rua Augusta, the shopping area of Lisbon, is worth a stroll
Commerce Square
Praca do Comercio – Commerce Square

Lisbon Insider Tips

Tram 28 is the best tram to see the city

An exceptional value for tourists is to purchase the 24-hour public transport ticket at €6.40. This includes the Elevator de Santa Justa, the Elevator da Gloria and all of the tram routes and bus services. These are sold only at the metro stations. Comparatively, a single tram ticket purchased onboard will cost 3.

Tram 28 Lisbon, Portugal
Famous Tram 28
Lisbon, Portugal
A beautiful viewpoint
Lisbon, Portugal
Wandering around Lisbon
Castelo de S Jorge
Castelo de S Jorge – Saint George’s Castle
Lisbon, Portugal
Saint George – inside St. George’s Castle
Lisbon, Portugal
Beautiful Architecture

Mosaic sidewalks of Lisbon – Calcada

In the first place, I immediately fell in love with the streets and walkways here. For one thing, they sparkle like diamonds in the sunlight and night-lights. In fact, they are public works of art! They are made from little pieces of basalt and limestone. Craftsmen create black and white designs, which form a beautiful mosaic called Calcada. Truly, it is a delight for the public to enjoy. It is important to remember to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes for the many steps and walkways since the Calcada can be slippery!

Lisbon, Portugal
Calcada
Walkways
Sparkling streets at night in Lisbon Portugal
Rossio Square
Rossio Square


Verona - What to see in Verona

What to see in Verona Italy

Visiting Verona?    See these attractions!

First of all, you will be captivated the minute you arrive in this ancient city. Verona is vibrant, lively and totally walkable. You can lose yourself for hours meandering through the attractive lanes and gorgeous piazzas finding a multitude of restaurants and wine bars. Practically surrounded by the Adige River, there are many beautiful bridges as well as waterfront restaurants and pubs. Rich in history and crammed with love, here are the top sights to see in Verona.

Piazza delle ErbePiazza Erbe Verona

This is my favorite and most picturesque piazza. Beautiful pastel buildings with faded frescos. Two clock towers stand at each end. The center has a lovely fountain and also an ornate water-well. Café umbrellas line one entire side of the piazza. During the week there is a festive open-air market in the middle. Tip: If you want to have a bird’s eye view of Piazza delle Erbe, stay at Corte Reali Suites. I enjoyed a huge balcony overlooking this beautiful piazza. This was my view every day!

Piazza BraPiazza Bra Verona

You can enter Piazza Bra through Portoni della Bra which is a double-arched medieval gateway. This tremendous cobbled piazza has a park on one side and a line of restaurants and cafes along the other. Relax, have a cappucinno and watch the people go by. This will also lead you to the oldest Roman amphitheatre in Italy, the Verona Arena. In addition, you can also catch the mini-train here for a Verona tour.

Verona ArenaVerona Arena

Built in 1st century A.D., this ancient arena held up to 30,000 spectators to view gladiator fights and hunting. It is also the third largest ampitheatre in Italy. At the present time, because the stage area is so tremendous, it seats 15,000 people. The Arena hosts various concerts and performances. Moreover, summer opera season draws fans from far and wide. Operas such as Carmen, Aida and The Barber of Seville are on the 2018 schedule. It’s an exciting experience.  Tickets start at 25E with discounts for seniors and those under 30. Tickets in the gold section are 189E.
Dress Code Note: For tickets on floor, men must wear pants, not shorts.

Juliet’s HouseJuliet's House, Verona

Verona and love go together like Romeo and Juliet. One of the most crowed spots in all of Verona is Juilet’s house. Get there early for an unobstructed view of the courtyard and Juliet’s balcony. You can even purchase tickets to enter and see the place where the love letters are answered and walk out on the balcony. This is one of the most popular of ‘what to see in Verona’.

Sant’ Anastasia ChurchSaint Anastasia, Verona

Located by Piazza dei Signori, St. Anastasia is a majestic gothic church and the biggest in the city. The façade is a mixture of colored marble and a beautiful gothic arch. Obviously, this church is simply beautiful inside and out.

CastelvecchioCastlevecchio, Verona

This spectacular medieval fortress was built in the 14th century. It is a masterpiece of gothic architecture and now houses a history museum. There is a medieval bridge attached which crosses over the Adige river. The bridge was totally destroyed in World War II but was rebuilt in 1951. Enjoy wonderful views from both the castle and the bridge.

Basilica of San ZenoSan Zeno, Verona

San Zeno Church is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture.  In addition, it has magnificent bronze doors leading into the church and many artworks inside. The church is dedicated to the patron saint of Verona, Saint Zeno.

Funicular of Castel S. PietroVerona Funicular

Take this funicular up to Castel S. Pietro and get a spectacular view of the city!

Via MazziniVia Mazzini, Verona

Evening strolls and chic boutiques are the highlight of the most popular shopping street in Verona. This is the best place to shop in Verona. Make sure you have room in your luggage to bring home some fashion finds. Not only is the shopping great, but there are a number of cafes and restaurants to stop at between shopping. I was also impressed by the beautiful shiny limestone pavement.

Porta Borsari

Verona things to see

This majestic Gate dates back to Roman times and it still marks the entrance into the city. Porto Borsari was built between the 1st century BC and 1st century AD. It has magnificent double arches and an external facade of white stone. Of course, it is certainly a beautiful historic sight to see in Verona.

Now that you know what to see in Verona Italy, you have to discover what to do when you’re there. Verona offers a wide variety of wonderful tours to take.

Tours

In addition to all these free sights to see, you can pick from a tremendous amount of tours available.  Enjoy wine and food tours in addition to biking, walking and rafting tours.
Jump to my Top Tours to do in Verona.


St. Tropez

St. Tropez Travel

Saint Tropez, France is truly one of the chicest and sexiest places on our planet. The most glamorous town on the French Riviera has sunny weather, white sandy shores and the sparkling Mediterranean to play in. This is just the beginning of the magic. For one thing, St. Tropez has the most spectacular, amazing nightlife and the most glamorus beach clubs. There is an abundance of hot spots with entertainment that only St. Tropez can offer. On the other hand, you can get off the beaten path, finding serene and romantic places to spend your time. Additionally, let’s not forget first class dining with amazing local cuisine. There is so much to discover in this picturesque, vibrant village.


St. Tropez

St. Tropez boasts a charming old town with excellent restaurants. Furthermore, there are exceptional hotels in St. Tropez. As you roam the narrow cobblestone streets you will discover unique and beautiful places that will inspire you. Saint Tropez is filled with fabulous restaurants, cafes, galleries and boutiques. Of course, there are many luxury shops also, such as Channel, Dior, Louis Vuitton, etc. Furthermore, there is a fantastic open air market on Place des Lices every Tuesday and Saturday. The market has delicious food products as well as an array of merchandise from fashion to antiques.

The Harbor – The Gathering Spot

St. Tropez, French Riviera

St. Tropez is also known for its bustling port. Not to mention that it is the focal point of town. You can grab a cocktail or coffee in one of the many open-air restaurants and watch the crowd go by. The harbor is a busy area lined with restaurants, cafes, and stores. Not only is the harbor a magnet for people, but also for the incredible mega yachts that are docked. Part of the allure is walking along the dock and browsing at all the yachts – any Below Deck fans?

The Best St. Tropez Beaches
Bagatelle Beach

Not only is the weather beautiful in Saint Tropez, but the beaches are beautiful as well. Furthermore, the beach clubs are insane! Crazy mad with great food, a great vibe and then voila – a thumping dance club that doesn’t stop till dusk!

Charming Old Town
St. Tropez Restaurant

In St. Tropez you can have it all from a romantic relaxing vibe to a non-stop party vibe. All wrapped up in a gorgeous Saint Tropezian bow!  Oh yes, it is still the home of Brigitte Bardot, who put St. Tropez on the map. Thank goodness!

Rosé Anyone?

Rose Wine

You will be sure to raise a glass of Rosé when you’re in Saint Tropez. This is just a small selection of Rosé that the French Riviera has to offer! Raise a glass and say “santé”

Getting to St. Tropez

Of course, taking a private transfer is always the best, although the most expensive way to go, about 180 euros in 2022. A good, easy option is train to ferry. From the Nice Airport or other coastal towns, take the train to Sainte-Maxime. Next board the Sainte-Maxime to Saint-Tropez ferry which takes about 15 min. If you have light luggage, you can walk to the ferry station in 10 minutes. However with heavy luggage taxis are available. You are able to purchase tickets at the ferry station and there are constant shuttles daily.

Sooo pretty!St. Tropez, Cote d'azur

St. Tropez is a village with winding alleys and colorful façades – a picturesque and characterful maze of pastel homes and cobbled lanes. You will find a picturesque site at every turn.

French Windows