Locorotondo

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

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…..

Locorotondo
Sirose Bufano Winery

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. 

Locorotondo

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 Ostuni, 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.

Be sure to see these other charming Puglian towns…..
 Alberobello, Grottaglie, Lecce, Martina Franca,  Monopoli, Ostuni and Polignano a Mare. In addition, Matera (in the region of Basilicata) is a must visit! If you’re thinking of a personal or group yoga retreat, discover a special Puglian Retreat in the beautiful wine countryside of Manduria.

My Favorite Restaurant in Locorotondo Italy

U Curdunn Ristorante

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.

Locorotondo

VENETO REGION

The Veneto Region of Italy should be tops your travel bucket list! In the first place, one of the most spectacular cities in the world is located here. Of course, it is Venice! Another city that we absolutely fell in love with is Verona – the setting of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”! Furthermore, there is lovely Lake Garda. In addition, the Veneto wine region is one of Italy’s major wine producing areas. Have you enjoyed Prosecco, Soave and Pinot Grigio? All delicious, and all from Veneto.

Outstanding places in the Veneto Region

VENICE

Venice Italy

Venice is romantic, magical and amazing! In fact,, you will fall in love the moment you see the canals, gondolas and beautiful architecture. Read all about this spectacular city in my travel guide! Venice and it’s lagoon are both listed as UNESCO‘s World Heritage Sites

VERONA

Verona Italy

Verona is the City of Love! Not only will you fall in love with your significant other, but you will definitely fall in love with this walkable, medieval city. In addition, Verona is known as the setting of Shakespeare’s “Romeo & Juliet.”  Moreover, if you are a wine lover – this is definitely the place to be. Named a UNESCO world heritage site.

LAKE GARDA

Lake Garda, Veneto Region

The area of Lake Garda is considered a major Italian tourist destination in the Veneto region. There are many lovely towns to visit on the Lake from the north to the south. Read my Lake Garda guide to explore some of the destinations. My favorite is Sirmione.

Discover more of the Veneto Region

The Veneto Region is very diverse with many little charming towns to visit. Therefore, if you are in Veneto, get to know the entire area. Try to visit some of these towns and let me know how you liked them!!

Padua, Vicenza (on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites Belluno, Montagnana, Asolo, Este, Marostica, Bassano del Grappa and Arqua Petrarca. The Veneto Region of Italy is a wonderful area, and you will love it!


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.

Piazza Flavio Giola

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

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 Italy

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.

Villa Cimbrone
Villa Cimbrone’s Terrace of Infinity

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

Ravello Dumo
White Duomo of Ravello

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

Ravello Amalfi Coast

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
Entrance to Villa Cimbrone – at the top of Ravello

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!

Palazzo Avino
Terrazzo Belvedere

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.


Como Italy

Como Italy

The city of Como Italy is clearly worth a visit! Thousands of people throng here to enjoy Como and the lake area. It has natural beauty and plenty to see and do. Moreover, since the train from Milan stops here, it is the perfect spot in Lake Como to stay for a day or more as a starting point for your vacation. In fact, Lake Como boasts an abundance of other beautiful towns and picturesque villages. Without a doubt, add Bellagio and Varenna to your list, as well as Como.

Como Italy

I found the city of Como lively and exciting. It has a multitude of fine restaurants, large piazzas, historical churches and beautiful architecture. Of course, the town center has delightful streets full of shops. Ideal for a fashion lover at any budget. Lastly, you will have your choice of cafes, where you can relax and sip coffee while you people-watch.

Piazza Duomo
Piazza Duomo

Things to do in Como Italy

Lose yourself in the delightful cobbled streets in town center. Wander to Piazza San Fedele. It is the main square of Como in the historical center of town.  You will find the Basilica of San Fedele, a beautiful Romanesque church dating back to 1120. Moreover, every Saturday there is a market here with handcrafted items and antiques.

Como Church of San Fedele
Church of San Fedele

Next, stroll toward the magnificent Piazza del Duomo, and visit the Como Cathedral (Duomo di Como). This is the main church of Como, dedicated to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It was built between the 14th and the 18th centuries. Although the Gothic style is predominant, the cathedral also hosts many Romanesque, Renaissance, and Baroque elements.

Como Cathedral
Duomo di Como

The Como Lakefront

You will find some of the best places to take pictures along the lakefront. Start at Piazza Cavour and go west (left) along the water. First, you will find the Volta Museum. It is a beautiful neoclassical temple built in 1927. It is dedicated to Alessandro Volta, the inventor of the electric battery, who was born and died in Como Italy. This photographic museum will wake up your camera!

Como Temple Volta
Volta Museum

Continue walking on Passeggiata Lino Gelpi and you will come upon Villa Gallia. There is a public walkway along the lake which is perfect for pictures! Next you will find historic and impressive Villa Olmo. It is a beautiful neoclassical villa dating back to the 1780s.

Como to Brunate

A fun thing to do is to take the funicular from Como Italy to the small adorable town of Brunate. From Piazza Cavour walk east (right) to the Como Brunate funicular. It is nearby the train station. The cable car scales the mountain and you arrive within a few minutes. Going up was easy, but going down…..I confess that I screamed from fright!! LOL

Como Funicular
The funicular route up the mountain to Brunate

You will find stunning views when you reach the top. Of course there are places to eat, sip coffee and enjoy the wonderful views of Como, the lake, and the mountains.

Como Beach

l love to have a beach day on vacation. We walked to Lido di Villa Olmo, just a few steps away from the beautiful Villa. This lido has a small beach, two swimming pools, and a large meadow. In addition the Beach Bar offers drinks, hot and cold dishes, snacks and cocktails. It was a fun few hours and a good light lunch in Como Italy!

Lido di Villa Olmo
Lido di Villa Olmo

Lake Como Italy – Villa d’Este

Overlooking one of the most romantic lakes in the world, Lake Como, Villa d’Este is magnificent! If only my wallet could afford it! Located in Cernobbio, it is only a 15 minute car ride away. Definitely go for a drink on the most luxurious terrace on the lake! You can also walk the grounds and gardens. Worth the drive, for sure!

Villa d'Este
Luxury 5 Star Villa d’Este is gorgeous!

Varenna Italy

Varenna Italy

Varenna Italy is yet another enchanting town on Lake Como. You will find magnificent scenery, beauty, charm, and perfect spots for photos at every turn. Bellagio may be my number one, but Varenna is definitely next!

Varenna

Recognized as one of the most picturesque towns on popular Lake Como, Varenna is enchanting and definitely worth a visit. In addition, it is one of the easiest places to access. Since Varenna has its own railway station, you can take a direct, one hour train ride from Milan. Upon arrival, you will find magnificent scenery, beauty, charm, and perfect spots for photos at every turn. 

Varenna

This adorable small village flourishes with cobbled lanes, colorful shops, elegant villas and art-filled church galleries. Varenna, Lake Como is a smaller, slower paced town than Bellagio.

It is perfect for relaxing by the lake and taking a stroll to see its beauty. You will be free of the touristy crowds who tend to gather in Como and Bellagio.

Things to do in Varenna, Lake Como

Other than experiencing colorful town center itself, my highlight was exploring Villa Monastero. It is truly breathtaking and a photographer’s dream! We took a long stroll in the Villa’s botanical gardens. It has the most beautiful view of the lake. This spectacular villa is 8 centuries old, hosts a museum and conference center. Of course, the main attraction is a gorgeous botanical garden.

Varenna Trellis
Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Lover’s Walk)

Take a scenic walk on the trellised path of Passeggiata degli Innamorati. It displays wonderful views of both Varenna, Lake Como and the mountain backdrop. It is aptly named, since it is truly a romantic walk through a dreamlike lakeside town.

The Church of San Georgio is located in the town’s main square, Piazza St. Georgio. The church dates back to the 13th century and has many frescos and works of art dating between the 15th and 18th century.

Among other things to do is to explore the medieval Castello di Vezio. Next, visit Villa Cipressi, which is now an outstanding hotel. Then, take a boat tour of the lake. Lastly, make sure that you visit other towns along the lake; especially the nearby towns of Bellagio, Menaggio, Tremezzo and Lenno! Enjoy your visit to Varenna Italy!


Bellagio

Bellagio, The Stunning Pearl of Lake Como

My favorite town on Lake Como is Bellagio! It is truly a gem and is often called the “Pearl of Lake Como”. Nestled between the shimmering waters and beautiful mountain peaks, Bellagio exudes charm at every turn. Its picturesque old town, with winding cobblestone streets and vibrant, colorful buildings, invites you to wander and soak in the atmosphere. The views are simply breathtaking, the food is exceptional, and the locals are incredibly warm and welcoming. For me, Bellagio has everything I could hope for in an Italian town.

Bellagio Italy

You’ll fall head over heels for Bellagio the moment you arrive. This dreamy little town is bursting with charm — from its adorable boutiques and cozy cafés to its mouthwatering restaurants tucked along lively cobblestone streets. The views? Absolutely magical. Bellagio is delightfully walkable, making it perfect for slow, scenic strolls. Wander up the narrow lanes that climb from the lake and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views from the top of town. And if you’re staying the night, you’re in for a treat — some truly special hotels are nestled right here, adding a little charm to the fairytale.

Things to do in Bellagio Italy

First, exploring town is one of the best things to do, since there are so many picturesque spots. Undeniably, Salita Serbelloni is one of the most charming. It is a cobbled staircase which begins at the lakefront, and runs to the top of town. Here you will find cozy shops, quaint cafes and delightful restaurants. Furthermore, delight in seeing colourful homes adorned with plants and flowers. Indeed, you will definitely enjoy soaking in the Italian sights and sounds of this special town.

Melzi Gardens

Secondly, to see stunning views of the lake, beautiful plants, trees and walking paths, take a stroll to Melzi Gardens. They are on the grounds of a 1800’s villa once owned by the President of the Italian Republic. The gardens are free to the public and worth the 15 minute walk.

Melzi Gardens
Melzi Gardens

Third, take the time to visit other towns of Lake Como. You will fine Varenna, Lenno, Tremezza and Mennagio close by. The ferry in Bellagio is connected to many other Lake Como towns that criss cross the lake. This public boat service easily connects the shore towns. Go to Navigazione Laghi to see timetables and costs.

Bellagio Lake Como Italy
Ferry Service throughout the lake

Lido di Bellagio

Then, I always try to fit in some fun in the sun! If you would like to relax in the sun with gazebos and sun beds, Bellagio offers Lido di Bellagio. It is on the shore of the lake between Bellagio and Villa Melzi. It is a fun little ‘beach’ where you can sip a cocktail and have a light lunch.
Subsequently, in addition of things to do, visit the Romanesque basilica of San Giacomo (St James). The church was built in the 12th century and the iconic bell tower is seen from the shore.

Bellagio, Italy

At this point, follow your footsteps and your heart will be happy just to live in the moment of amazing Belligio Italy. Defiitely a must visit!


Lake Como Italy

Lake Como is one of the most beautiful and popular places to visit in Italy. It is an upscale resort area known for its stunning scenic beauty. In all honesty, there is nothing like it! Without a doubt, the lake itself is a beautiful sight. What’s more, the dramatic backdrop of the Alps makes it even more breathtaking. You will definitely find jaw-dropping natural beauty here. The lake boasts a coastline of scenic, charming towns, elegant old villas, and amazing private homes. Make sure to visit Bellagio, Varenna and Como among others. Say YES to Lake Como Italy, as you will definitely fall in love with everything it has to offer.

Lake Como

Getting to Lake Como

You can conveniently travel to Lake Como from Milan with a direct 1-hour train ride. Your destination station will be the historic city of Como. Lake Como is shaped like an upside down letter Y, and Como is at the tip of the southwest leg. From Como, you can take ferries or hydrofoils everywhere along the lake. Lake Como is alive with charming villages to visit and explore along the shore.
If you have a rental car, driving around the entire lake would take 4 hours.

Lake Como Map

Villages on the Lake

Como city is a delightful, lively place to explore. It is filled with culture and history. You’ll find beautiful piazzas, historic villas and it’s worth a visit on your way up the lake. Moreover, it has great shopping and delicious restaurants. You can explore the city and partake in fun activities. For instance, take the funicular up to the cute mountain town of Brunate, and enjoy the view. From Como, use the public ferry service which connects all the major villages along the shores of the lake. Visit Navigazione Laghi to see schedules and costs.

Bellagio
Bello Bellagio!

Explore the Towns

There are so many attractive, charming towns along the lake. Notably, Bellagio, which is a perfect choice as my home base. A fast speed ferry got us there in 40 minutes. Bellagio has stunning scenery and is known as the Pearl of Lake Como. You’ll enjoy fine dining, wine tastings, a flower filled promenade and great boutiques. Moreover, it’s in a great central location, between the two legs of the Y. We simply walked onto a ferry every day to explore the uniqueness of other towns.

Time to explore yet another beautiful spot! Varenna is another beautiful village on the lake.

Varenna is absolutely worth visiting! It has a charming old town, botanical gardens and gorgeous villas, all on a stunning lakeside location. What’s more, you can visit a medieval castle with jaw-dropping panoramic views. Varenna is another of the most beautiful and most picturesque towns of Lake Como. So yes, it’s absolutely a must.

Lake Como
Varenna

Lake Como Italy is loved by many people, you will fall under the spell too! I would definitely spend a few days here, if not an entire week!

Lake Como
Bellagio

Lake Garda

Lake Garda Italy

Lake Garda, located in northern Italy, is a popular Italian vacation destination, and is Italy’s largest lake. Scenic and charming, it is only a 57-minute train ride from Milan, a day trip from Venice, and a short 14-mile ride from the beautiful, must-see city of Verona.

A trip to Lake Garda will surely give you the opportunity to engage in many activities and excursions including hiking and swimming. In addition, the lively and picturesque towns will keep you entertained and busy. Additionally, you can enjoy relaxing beaches or people watch sitting at one of the many cafes.

A Sirmione anacronism – finding an ancient castle moat being used by a modern boat!

Southern Lake Garda

We were lucky enough to visit some towns in the southern area of the lake.  Exciting and beautiful, Sirmione, which is my favorite! Chic and delightful, Lazise. Garda Town with a shoreline filled with restaurants and views of the mountains. Lastly, Bardolino with a beautiful marina filled with colorful boats.  All of these towns were so nice and special in their own way.

Bardolino
Bardolino

We visited southern Lake Garda for 3 days and made Sirmione our home base. It was a great decision for us because we loved it there! We found Sirmione to be a bustling town with so much to see and do. Furthermore, there is a beautiful castle, a few beaches and everything within walking distance. We found many vistiors strolling the streets, eating ice cream and shopping.

Lake Garda Town
Lots of shopping!

Discover moated castles, wineries, as well as ancient ruins sprinkled in between. There is truly a lot to discover and worth the trip if you are in northern Italy.

Lake Garda

Lake Garda has a wonderful fleet of ferries that can transport you from town to town. All the coastal towns are beautiful and special in their own way. If you have the time and plan carefully, you would be able to visit all the towns from north to south. Go to Navigazione Laghi for ferry information. Print out the timetable for advanced planning or just wing it!

Lake Garda

Visit my other posts regarding the southern coastal towns in Lake Garda which we visited. Moreover, you will find in-depth information about Sirmione, Bardolino, Lazise, Garda Town and Salo. All of them are worth a visit, especially Sirmione, which was my favorite and perfect as my home base.

Of course there are the northern lake towns which are supposed to be wonderful also! Limone was wonderful! Lake Garda is really a delight. Take the time to see it all and let us know what you think. Feel free to send a comment below.


Italian Festivals

ITALY – FESTIVALS & EVENTS are Spectacular!

Italian festivals, carnivals and competitions are spectacular occasions! Festivals in Italy are so much fun – you can build your vacation around them. All Italians love to come together and celebrate their culture. Steeped in tradition, centuries-old festivities come alive all over Italy. You can attend amazing carnivals, grueling sporting competitions and see beautiful art. Surely, you will never forget the thrill of these festivals in Italy!
The following amazing events are in order of calendar year.

Carnival of Viareggio 2026

Viareggio Carnival
Carnevale di Viareggio 2026 VIAREGGIO, TUSCANY – Feb 1st through Feb 21st
Thousands of spectators gather. Spectacular floats join them. These elements make this the most amazing carnival for the Lenten season. This is an extravaganza that you will remember forever!

Venice Carnival 2026

Venice Carnival
Carnevale di Venezia 2026 VENICE – Feb 22nd through March 4th
Attending an extravagant masked ball is truly unforgettable. This experience is set in one of the most magical cities in the world. During this 10-day event, the streets are filled with masked people dressed in Venetian 18th century clothing. If you are in Venice during this exciting time, you will enjoy the parades and many activities throughout Venice.  

Battle of the Oranges 2026

Battle of the Oranges Turin
Storico Carnevale di Ivrea 2026 TURIN, PIEDMONT – February 15 – 17th.
Imagine a battle waged with almost 900,000 pounds of oranges! It’s an exhilarating experience. Well, you can relive the experience in Ivrea’s most historic struggle between ruling tyrant and all the residents. Teams, rules, and horse-drawn carts, make for a mighty battle – not with weapons but with oranges!

Venice Art Biennale 2026

Venice Art Biennale
Biennale Arte 2026 VENICE – Runs from May to November.
Artists from all over the world gather and display their works in the Beinnale Arte. This is an international art exhibition that will thrill art enthusiasts the world over! Venice is magical, and the Arte Biennale is a bonus to see.

Italy Flower Festivals 2026

Italy Infiorata Festival

Infiorata di Noto 2026 NOTO, SICILY. Late May or early June

Infiorata di Spello 2026 SPELLO, UMBRIA June


Infiorata di Genzano di Roma 2026.
ROME -June
This is a festival for the eyes. It should not be missed! Works of art, made with thousands of flowers, carpet the streets of many Italian cities. The best of these can be found in Noto, Genzano and Spello. Enjoy this explosion of color and art as a centuries-old tradition carries on. In 1625, Bendetto Drei, the head florist of the Vatican, created a mosaic of flowers. The artwork was for the basilica on the day of St. Peter and Paul. As a result of his creativity, this historic tradition flourishes and carries on.

Opera Festival 2026, Verona Arena Italy

Verona Arena
Arena di Verona 2026 VERONA, VENETO – June to September.
We were lucky enough to enjoy the opera, Aida, in this amazing arena! Built in 30AD, this venue seats 30,000 people! Since staging and backdrops are enormous during Opera season, it only seats a mere 15,000! If you find yourself in the beautiful city of Verona, make sure to see one of the many spectacular Operas at the Arena. It’s an experience worth having. Tickets start as low as 24 euros up to 300 euros for ultimate seats. In addition, there are also student discounts. No matter where you sit, the stage is so tremendous that the view is great!
NOTE: Men cannot wear shorts in the platinum, gold or silver areas – but don’t worry – they sell black pants there!!

Joust of the Saracen 2026

Joust of the Saracen Italy
Giostra del Saracino 2026 AREZZO, TUSCANY – June & Sept
Citizens of Arezzo march from their own sectors. They engage in this Medieval ritual twice a year. It has become this city’s obsession! In other words, the Joust is a passionate Italian competition with thousands of spectators! Although the pageantry and costumes are a spectacle, in reality this is a skilled and serious competition. The Golden Lance is a trophy to be revered. This is one event that I really must attend! After all, this is a competition not to be missed!

Battle of the Bridge Competition 2026

Battle of the Bridge Pisa
Gioco del Ponte 2026 PISA, TUSCANY – June 25th
Dating back to the 11th century, teams put their strength and endurance to the test. In order to maintain control of the Ponte di Mezzo, teams must push their opponents carts to the opposite end. Moreover, there is a parade along the riverbank before the historical reenactment of the battle begins.

Siena Horse Race 2026

Siena Horse Race
Palio di Siena 2026 SIENA, TUSCANY – July 2nd & Aug 16th
This is the most exhilarating event that I have ever been to in my life! Please go to this!!!! Piazza del Campo, the heart of Siena, is the pulse of this centuries-old challenge between the different Sienese areas. The Palio is not just a horse race. It is an extravaganza of pageantry and courage by the riders. It is also a complete explosion of passion by thousands of spectators. Try your best to attend this once in a lifetime Italian event!

Medieval Festival Monteriggioni Italy 2026

Medieval Festival Italy
Monteriggioni Festa Medievale 2026 MONTERIGGIONI, TUSCANY – July 2-5th
Relive the magic of medieval times at this colorful festival. Castles, knights, dancing, fireworks and more make this a memorable event for all!

Venice Film Festival 2026

Venice Film Festival
Festival del cinema di Venezia LIDO, VENICE – Sept. 2- 12th
Celebrities, awards and glitz in one of the most magical cities in Italy! Venice – What more can you say?

So much to see and do! If you have the opportunity, try to visit some of the festivals and carnivals in Italy. You will make wonderful memories for years to come!

Verona Opera
Here we are outside the Verona Arena on the night we attended the opera, Aida – such a sight to behold!