Venice Carnival 2022

Make a dream come true and visit Venice during the Venice Carnival 2022. This is a truly amazing, one of a kind event in Venice!  First of all, the exciting and world-famous Venice Carnival is about three weeks long. During this time there are daily competitions for beautiful costumes and masks. In addition, there are also exhibitions, cultural events, ceremonies, theatrical readings and DJ Sets.   Furthermore, night visits to main museums and other places of culture are available. A festive atmosphere fills the streets and waterways.  Surely, you will encounter countless people in traditional masquerade costumes and masks.

Secondly, there are many exclusive events and dinners and available to attend. Have a magical evening at an authentic Venetian Ball.

DINNER SHOWS AND BALLS

Costume

Definitely dress up in masquerade and have the time of your life.  There is nothing more exciting than soaking up the atmosphere and becoming a part of Venice Carnival. Not only are carnival parties and masked balls held at the best hotels and palaces of Venice but they also have international entertainers, musical guests and comedians. Not to mention, there are so many to choose from, therefore learn about what each offers and the dress code before you purchase your tickets.

VENICE CARNIVAL 2022Carnival Mask

Dates: Saturday, February 12th to Tuesday, March 1st 2022

Plan your Carnival experience to perfection.  Take a look at Balls and Parties for Venice Carnival 2022 in this calendar of events! Stay tuned for comprehensive information on Venice Carnival 2022.

Highly Recommended

Venetian Reflections Carnival Ball 2022

This is the official Dinner and Ball of the Carnival – where the pleasures of palate and party come together!

  • February 19th & 20th, 2022
  • Venetian Reflections is the new and sparkling ball of the Venice Carnival which will take place in the prestigious Palazzo Labia.
  • Live animations, entertainment and music
  • Historical costumes mandatory
  • After dinner and dj set with open bar

Mascheranda Grand Ball

“Mascheranda” is an historical event of the Venice Carnival. International guests and the fancy atmosphere of this Masked Ball makes for an unforgettable evening.

  • Sunday, February 27, 2022 – Enjoy a sit down gala dinner in the elegant frescoed rooms of this breathtaking palace, PALAZZO PISANI MORETTA
  • Compulsory dress code for the Mascheranda Grand Ball is full period costume. Therefore, evening dresses and tuxedos are not allowed
  • Entertainment

The Ball of Dreams

The dress code for the Ball of Dreams is historical costume with mask or elegant (evening) costume with mask

Carnival PackagesVenice Carnival

You can even choose a Carnival Package.  Packages includes, hotel, transfers, costume rentals with fitting, lunch, dinner and Masquerade Ball, gondola tour etc.

To learn more about the fabulous Venice Carnival click here.

VENICE CARNIVAL EVENTS 2022

Amazing and thrilling performances occurred  during this 17-day event. To begin with, the official kick-off features the Marie Festival*.  The festivities started with a water procession of chosen girls. The procession departs from San Giacomo dall’ Orio and arrives in Piazza San Marco where they made their public debut in traditional costumes. At that point, the Doge crowns one lucky girl to be Maria of the year – the most beautiful maiden of the Venice Carnival.

Festivities continue with the traditional Flight of the Angel.  The Flight of the Angel is one of the most awaited events in Venice. It is held from 12 noon to 1:00pm in Saint Mark’s Square. An Angel flys along a rope from the top of San Marco bell tower to the middle of Piazza San Marco.  A multitude of participants dressed in traditional costumes welcome the Angel. In addition, the first two days also kicks off with a water parade transforming the Rio di Cannaregio canal into a water stage!

The Ballad of Masks and the beheading of the bull is performed on Fat Thursday, February 28th.  Then the final stage of the competition for the most beautiful mask. In addition was the Flight of the Eagle and performances of various musical concerts. Mardi Gras, brings the proclamation of the Maria of Carnival and the Svolo del Leon.

*The Marie Festival

The Marie Festival harkens back to the abduction and liberation of twelve brides in the year 1039. Every February 2nd, the day of the purification on Mary – since the 9th century – twelve beautiful maidens represent the city and gathered with their betrothed in the Church of S. Pietro di Castello, to receive the Wedding Sacrament.

Costume

Carnival Costume


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?

Read More

Venice Airport to Venice City Hotels

VENICE AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION

The official international airport in Venice is called the Venice Marco Polo Airport.  It is an extremely busy airport and is very easy to reach by plane from all over the word. From Venice airport, it is convenient to get Venice City Centre and the surrounding islands.  Many questions surround the topic Venice Airport to Venice city hotels.  Read this page for transportation information on Private Transfers and Vaporetto tickets and prices.

AIRPORT NAME:  Marco Polo International Airport

AIRPORT CODE: VCEVenice Transfers

Marco Polo Airport Transfers

Depending on your wallet, the best and most convenient way to to get from the Venice airport to your hotel is a private water taxi.  Book in advance especially during busy season between May and October. When you come out of the arrivals gate, you will be met by someone holding a sign with your name on it.  You will be walked to the dock, your luggage will be put on board and you’re off to your hotel. The usual cost is about a 110 euros if your hotel is in the city and about 125 euros if on Lido Island. The ride takes approximately 25-30 minutes. Here are some recommendations:  Venice Quality Transfers, Consorzio Motoscafi,

Semi-Private Boat Transfer
Venice Boat Shuttle

Shared transportation is a pre-paid, cost effective way to reach the closest boat stop near your hotel. Once you’ve cleared customs, you’ll be greeted by your driver in the arrivals hall and climb aboard your boat. It is a great alternative to the high cost of a private transfer, waiting in long lines for taxi boats or squeezing on the Vaporetto.  Book early especially during high season. For more information, go to VeniceLink.com.

Marco Polo Airport Vaporetto
Venice Vaporetto

You can also take the Vaporetto  (Water Bus) to your hotel.  This option is probably less money depending on how many people you are paying for.  You should keep in mind that the Vaporetto is very crowded, you will have to haul your luggage on and off the bus and then to your hotel. In addition you will have to walk from the bus stop to your hotel. Packing light would be a wise thing, since you will probably have to walk a few blocks and navigate a few bridges.

Vaporetto Tickets:  REMINDER! Validate your tickets in the ticket machines by boat embarkation before you board! If not, you will get fined.
Ticket Prices:  From airport to the city of Venice –  $14 one-way  or $25 Round-trip per person.  Return ticket is good for 30 days.
Buying Tickets: You can purchase your tickets at the ticket office in the Arrivals Hall or the ticket office on the boat dock.  There are also ticket machines in Arrivals by Carousels 3 and 5.  In addition, you can also buy tickets on board.  If you want to save time, you can also purchase tickets online at Alilaguna.it
Getting to the Vaporetto: From the Arrivals Hall exit, go left and walk seven minutes until you reach the boat dock.  There you will find the Vaporettos.  Make sure you get on the one that goes to your destination and don’t forget to validate your ticket.

Once you arrive, enjoy the magic!

Venice Travel

 

 

 


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


Best Hotels In St. Tropez

St Tropez France Hotels…..

are some of the best in the world. Welcome to St. Tropez! Here are my recommendations on the best luxury and moderately priced hotels in fabulous St. Tropez.

Hotel Byblos St Tropez

Hotel Byblos St. Tropez

Luxury with pool: The Hotel Byblos is an iconic hotspot for international jet-setters and is spectacular in many ways. It is in a perfect location in the heart of the village. From the moment you arrive, you will be in the lap of luxury and treated like royalty. Byblos is one of the best in St. Tropez if not in all the Cote d’azur! Brand new luxury suites were added last year as well as the Cucina Byblos and Arcadia Restaurants. Not only is staying here fabulous, but it is one of the best hot spots in St. Tropez. With a nighttime summer party around the pool and the famous Cave du Roy Club, Hotel Byblos is a destination for all who want to party and stay the St. Tropez way!
Address: 20 Avenue Paul Signac, St. Tropez

Pan Dei Palais

hotel st. trop

Luxury with Pool – This elegant hotel is located in the center of the village, although when you step inside it is an oasis of zen and calmness. With an excellent staff, beautiful gardens and superior rooms this is for the traveler who wants calm after the hustle and bustle of St. Tropez
Address: 52 rue Gambetta, St. Tropez

Le Yaca

Le Yaca St Tropez

Luxury with Pool – Le Yaca is a charming 18th-century residence with excellent service in a superb atmosphere. The rooms have been fully renovated in the best taste. In addition to the luxurious comfortable rooms, Le Yaca has a pool and a beautiful garden. This 5* hotel is also in an excellent location in the center of everything.
Address: 1 Boulevard D’Aumale, St. Tropez

Hotel La Ponche

LuxuryHotel La Ponche is fantastically situated in the old town of Saint Tropez, with views over the bay, and an excellently situated restaurant terrace. In addition, there is a small local beach at their doorstep.
Address: 5 rue des Remparts, St. Tropez

Hotel Sube

Moderately Priced: Hotel Sube is a 3-star hotel in a fantastic location directly on the port. The rooms are simply decorated but lovely. Rooms with balconies will catch an amazing sunset and all the happenings of the yachts and people below. It is great value by St. Tropez standards. Enjoy!
Address: 23 Quai du Bailli du Suffren


Best Restaurants in St. Tropez

Discover the best restaurants in St. Tropez with me!  St. Tropez will dazzle you with an array of amazing restaurants, delicious food and unique dining experiences.  You will savor the freshest seafood and the very best of traditional culinary delights, not to mention the creamiest tarts. Of course, food plays an amazing part in the culture and daily life of Saint Tropez, which is certainly a place for foodies. All my suggestions are within walking distance from the port. Remember that Rose wine is the life blood of St. Tropez! While you are there, forget the reds and whites – drink the pinks! Santé! (to your health)

We all have priorities in restaurants. For some it’s strictly the food – others require ambiance or a chic scene and for yet another service is tops. My recipe is to mix all these ingredients and suggest the very best to you!
Bon appétit!

Caprice des Deux

Caprice des Deux

Moderately Priced – This happens to be one of the most amazing dinners that we had in St. Tropez. Everything we ordered was exceptional. Not only was the staff welcoming and attentive, but the atmosphere was just magical. Outdoor seating had the view of a quaint street with the beautiful dome in the background. Musicians stopped and did an array of songs during dining. It was just a perfect spot with and excellent meal. Please make reservations in advance since they are very busy during the vacation season. I highly recommend visiting this wonderful restaurant.

L’Auberge des Maures

St. Tropez Restaurants

Romantic, Fine Dining – Since, L’Auberge des Maures was recommended by our hotel we decided to go. It certainly did more than impress us! As a matter of fact, it is an oasis of culinary excellence which serves traditional provencal cuisine at its best. In addition, delicious wine, incredible service and a charming atmosphere definitely makes this one of the best restaurants in St. Tropez. 
Address: Château de La Messardière, 2 route de Tahiti , St. Tropez

Restaurant Le G’ envie

Restaurant Le G'envie

Moderately Priced – Not only does L’e G’envie have superb food, but it is combined with excellent service. The menu of French/Mediterranean cuisine is beautifully plated and tastes divine. Furthermore, you will enjoy the view of the beautifully domed Chapel of Mercy (la Chapelle de la Miséricorde). Since it is a small, cozy place, I suggest making a reservation.
Address: 67 rue de Portail Neuf, St. Tropez

RIVEA at Byblos

Rivea Restaurant, St. Tropez

Romantic, Fine Dining – Perfectly located in the beautiful Byblos Hotel Rivea offers delicious Mediterranean cuisine in a gorgeous atmosphere. Enjoy a charming terrace, lounge music and a casual chic vibe. After dinner head over to the pool area and enjoy one of the best lounge scenes in St. Tropez. I love it here!
Address: 24 Avenue Foch, St. Tropez

Le Patio

Le Patio Restaurant, St. Tropez

Romantic, Fine Dining – Enjoy delicious Italian cusine in a beautiful poolside garden under the stars. One of my favorite restaurants is Le Patio located in Le Yaca Hotel. The menu is refined Italian cuisine. Excellent food and great service in a beautiful atmosphere! Surely try the tagliatelle with lobster – it is delicious! One of my favorite of St. Tropez restaurants.
Address: 1 Boulevard D Aumale, St. Tropez

L’Opera

L'Opera, St. Tropez
L'Opera, St. Tropez

Lively, Fine Dining –  In the first place, this is the best restaurant/club I have ever been to in the world! My favorite nights out in St Tropez are always spent at L’Opera. The food is delicious and service is excellent. That is only the beginning – together with unbeatable atmosphere and entertainment so amazing – you won’t want to leave! Try the truffle gnocchi, it was superb! If you are looking to really party, book the 10 PM seating. It turns into a club. By all means, don’t miss it! I think it may be the best restaurant in St. Tropez.
Address: Residence du Port, St. Tropez

Le Senequier

Sénéquier, St. Tropez

Moderately Priced – Le Sénéquier is in a prime location on the port. Not only is its red awning an iconic part of St. Tropez, but the entrees are excellent. Enjoy dining al fresco while looking at the harbor under the stars. Also, Sénéquier is a perfect sunny daytime spot to have coffee or lunch on the harbor. Great for people watching and celebrity spotting!
Address: Quai Jean Jauras, St. Tropez

BanH-Hoi

Moderately Priced – If you would like a change from French cuisine try BanH-Hoi. This restaurant offers the best authentic Thai and Vietnamese food on the French Riviera. Inside you will find a plush, sexy and intimate atmosphere. You can also dine outside under the stars. It is one of the most exclusive restaurants in St. Tropez.
Address: 12 rue Petit Saint Jean, St. Tropez

La Villa Romana

Lively, Fine Dining –  La Villa Romana offers great food with an Italian Mediterranean flair. There is entertainment, fun bar and dancing. 
Address: Chemin des Conquetes, St. Tropez.

The Best Restaurants in St. Tropez

Writing about St. Tropez restaurants happens to be a difficult task since there are an abundance of excellent ones! Although French cuisine is one of the most excellent in the world, St. Tropez is a small cosmopolitan city with foods from different countries. My wish for you is to savor the culinary delights of this marvelous city and country. While you are there, enjoy dining at the best restaurants in St. Tropez!


Things to do in Verona Italy – Tours

Captivating Verona offers something for everyone! Your options will be overflowing when it comes to things to do in Verona. Wine enthusiasts, foodies and culture vultures will be in heaven! In addition you can find bike, Segway and rafting tours. Furthermore, if Verona is your home base, I can suggest a few fantastic day trips to take. You will love it here, there is so much to do in this fantastic, vibrant city. Here is my list of top tours in Verona.

What to do in Verona

Of course, you will find plenty of free attractions in Verona. On the other hand, here is a great list of tours and things to do during your visit which I highly recommend. Immerse yourself in the culture of this wonderful area of my favorite country, Italy!

Tip: Book early! In order to get your first choice of the day and time, schedule your activities a week or two before you arrive. This is true especially if you’re only here for a few days.

Food and Wine Walking TourVerona food and wine tour

This is a fun, delicious tour that we loved! Take a 3.5 hour walking tour with a friendly enthusiastic foodie guide. Enjoy visiting the local bottega’s and wine stores as you walk through old town on narrow streets and cobblestone lanes. Try local cheeses, fresh pastas, homemade bread and handmade gelato. Of course, let’s not forget the wine! Enjoy amazing Amarone wine, which is only produced in Verona. Then try some other Valpolicella wines, while hearing interesting stories behind the flavors. This was a great way to spend a morning. We really enjoyed and recommend the Veronality Food and Wine Tour.

Biking ToursVerona Bike Tour

I highly recommend going on the Veronality Bike Tour. Not only is it a great way to explore Verona, but you will learn interesting bits of history and culture on the way. Enjoy an easy 3 hour tour through the city’s main squares and ancient monuments. Some of the highlights will include; Piazza Erbe, Piazza Bra, Juilet’s House, the Verona Arena and the Medieval Bridge among other sites. The local guides are warm, friendly and knowledgeable. It was a really fun morning for our group – we loved it!

Verona Winery ToursVerona Winery Tours

Verona is located in the most prestigious wine making regions in Italy, Valpolicella. Therefore, there are countless – and I mean countless – winery tours to choose from. This is where you have to do your homework. There are full day, half day, far drive, short drive, with meal, with snack, this wine, that wine, private, semi private, group….the list goes on and on. It literally took me a few weeks to finally decide on a tour that was just right for us. Finally, we picked an AirBnB Experience at  Santa Maria Valverde Estate which was great for us. Anna picked us up and drove us to her beautiful winery for a private tour. Here are other great options for wine tours: Get Your Guide Tours, Veronality Tours, Viator, and AirBnB Experiences.

Verona ArenaVerona Arena

When in Verona you must experience an opera at the Arena. Summer opera season draws fans from far and wide. Operas such as Aida, Carmen, La Traviata and Tosca are on the 2019 schedule. It’s an amazing experience. Furthermore there are various concerts and performances. Placido Domingo will perform on August 4, 2019.  Verona Opera Aida
Opera Dress Code Tip: If your seats are in the gold section, men must wear pants. If a man wears shorts (even though it may be sweltering outside) he will not be admitted. For his convenience, black pants are sold at Gate 1 for 35 euros. Of course, this was the case with us, but the pants are really nice! We consider them a souvenir from Verona!
Prices: Opera tickets range from 25euro (top rows, non-numbered seats) to 192 euros in the gold section. Discounted for seniors and those under 30. Concert prices vary according to the artist. For schedule and tickets go to the Official Ticket Site.

Verona Rafting TourVerona Rafting Tour

Discover Verona from the river. Rafting is a unique and fun way to admire the charm of Verona. This city was built and developed on the banks of the Adige River. As a result, you will ‘soak up’ a different perspective from the water. Enjoy an unforgettable experience with Adige Rafting Tours.

Mini Train TourVerona Train Tour

Of course, it is always fun to take the mini train tour around town! It is a short 25 minutes and brings you past all the major sights. Ticket prices: Adult 5 euros, Child (5-15) 3 euros.

Verona Segway Tour

Experience historic Verona from a unique perspective. Glide through the historic center and see the main attractions. A Segway Tour is definitely a fun way to explore this beautiful city.

Romeo and Juliet Experience

This is a unique multimedia exhibition. Thanks to a careful use of state-of-the-art immersive technologies, it will give visitors the possibility of physically and emotionally immersing themselves in different environments, experiencing first-hand the essence of the famous tragedy.

Obviously, it is so easy to fall in LOVE with Verona!

Verona Italy


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.


Getting from Naples to Sorrento

Naples to Sorrento

The closest airport to Sorrento is Naples Capodichino (NAP)

You can easily reach Sorrento from Naples by car, train, ferry, or private transfer. Getting from Naples to Sorrento by driving can be more than a thrill (terrifying for some) since most of the road zigzags on the edge of a cliff!  Even so, if you elect to rent a car, you will be rewarded with stunning vistas and scenery. Other than driving, there are several other options for transportation to Sorrento. Naples to SorrentoI’ve found that the least expensive choice (train) takes the longest time. Furthermore, it could be the most crowded and inconvenient with luggage. I find that the moderately priced option (ferry) is an easy way to go. The fastest and most comfortable (private driver) is the most expensive. In my opinion, there are things worth splurging on, and things worth skimping. Safety, time, and convenience may be worth the splurge for you.

Naples Airport to Sorrento Options:

Sorrento by Car:

From the Capodichino Airport or the Naples Central Train Station start by following signs to Tangenziale-Autostrade. Then take the A3 Highway/Salerno-Reggio Calabria. Continue to Castellammare di Stabia exit. Then take the 145 state street and follow directions to the Penisola Sorrentina. Welcome to Sorrento!

Naples to Sorrento Train

Naples to Sorrento TrainThe least expensive way is to take the train to Sorrento. From the Naples airport, take the free shuttle to Napoli Centrale Garibaldi Train Station. Go to the lower level and take the Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento which is the last stop. Trains depart every 30/60 minutes and the journey can be up to an hour and a half. Warning: in the summer months the train from Naples to Sorrento is jammed, with standing room only, and not air conditioned! It may be a very unpleasant ride. You can buy your tickets from an automated ticket machine or ticket office.
Tickets: Naples to Sorrento 4.50e each
Important Note: Remember to validate your train ticket before you get on the train! If you don’t, you can be subject to a fine and must purchase another ticket. Also, be aware of pickpockets on the train.

Ferry to SorrentoFerry to Sorrento

The first step is to take the airport shuttle to Naples Beverello Harbor. The shuttle departs every 10 minutes. Once at the harbor, find the Alilauro ticket office to purchase your tickets. The Hydrofoil journey is 40 minutes. Go to Alilauro for ferry times and prices. This is a beautiful way to arrive in Sorrento. Be prepared for a gorgeous view of the cliffs and town above!! Be aware that the ferry pier is on beach level and there is an uphill climb to the hotels. However, if you stay to your left when exiting the marina, you will find an elevator lift to take you up to town (cost 1 euro. Of course, taxis are available or you can walk up and enormous flight of steps.
Note: CASH ONLY! Many people waited on line only to be turned away to find an ATM.
Ferry times: 9am 11am 1pm 3:05pm 5:15pm and 6:25pm – varies during seasons.
Tickets: One way from Naples to Sorrento is 14.10e per person – Luggage is 2.10e per piece.

Private Transfer to Sorrento
Private Transfer to Sorrento

In my opinion, the most hassle-free way is via private car transfer from Naples. If you decide on door to door transport, I highly recommend Renato Como Transfers. They will pick you up at the airport arrivals point, and take you directly to your hotel in Sorrento. In addition, if you want to sightsee for a few hours, you can stop in Pompeii or Herculaneum. Your luggage is safely stored in the vehicle. Furthermore, you can also stop for delightful lunch at a cliffside restaurant.  Anything you desire they will accommodate.Getting to Sorrento

Whatever option you choose, enjoy getting from Naples to Sorrento. Relish the breathtaking views and appreciate the locals! Of course, when you are on the Amalfi Coast, make your way to Capri, Positano, Ravello and Almafi.