Dubrovnik, Croatia

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

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

Things to do in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik Wall — View from the City Walls walk

Dubrovnik City Walls

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

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

Dubrovnik Shopping

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

Beaches

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

Restaurants & Bars

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

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

Dubrovnik Game of Thrones

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

Beach Bar Dodo

Bellagio Italy the Pearl of Lake Como

My favorite town in Lake Como is beautiful Bellagio! It is a charming, attractive town with the lake in front and the hills behind. Moreover, the views are spectacular. Here you will enjoy a pedestrian old town with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. The food is great and the locals are so friendly. Bellagio Italy, known as the Pearl of Lake Como has everything I look for in an Italian town.

Of course, Bellagio, is considered the highlight of Lake Como. It has a wonderful blend of cute shops, caffes and delicious restaurants on active cobblestone streets. Not to mention spectacular views. It is a small town and completely walkable – perfect for taking a long leisurely stroll. Narrow streets run uphill from the lake giving you a beautiful lake view from the top of town. Moreover, there are some special hotels here.

Things to do in Bellagio Italy

Exploring the streets, especially with your camera, is one of the best and first things to do, since there are so many picturesque spots. Undeniably, Salita Serbelloni is one of the most beautiful. It is a long straight flight of stairs which runs from the harbor and goes straight up the hill. All along the street there are shops, small cafes, colourful houses and lots of plants and flowers. Indeed, you will definitely enjoy soaking in 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.

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.

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!

Eze, French Riviera

Words are hard to describe the charm!

Eze is perched high up on a mountain top with stunning views of the sea in the French Riviera. It is one of the most beautiful medieval villages I’ve ever visited. There are narrow cobblestone streets that twist and turn among stone houses. The only way to access this village is by foot as there are no roads or cars. You’ll find hot pink bougainvillea, ivy and flowers growing everywhere. Browse or shop in the boutiques, art galleries and jewelry stores along the winding walkways. The twelfth century church dominates one aspect of the unique hilltop village, and is classified as an historical monument.

In addition, let me say a word about the food here – excellent!!! Really amazing, fresh, delicious French food. Everything – fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats, etc. are all carried up to the restaurants by foot, as the village is totally pedestrian. Eze is well worth a visit if you are in the French Riviera.

The BEST of EZE……..

Here are some of my favorites in and around Eze.

EZE HOTELS

Chateau de la Chevre d’Or (Castle of the Golden Goat)

Luxury: This is a one of a kind luxury hotel perched on a hilltop in the village of Eze. The views are stunning and the rooms are scattered throughout a portion of the medieval streets. Take in the magnificent scenery as you are in a very special area.
The accommodations, service and staff are amazing, as well as the beauty of the entire property. In addition, there is a gym and small pool. Please be aware that this is quite an expensive hotel, however, you will feel like you’re in paradise.

EZE B&B’s

Bastide aux Camelias

Village Suite

This B&B owns two properties. The first is a XVI century charming guesthouse in a quiet, relaxing area only a 5 minute drive from Eze Village. It has an amazing sea view, pool and beautiful garden.

Next, they have the Village Suite, which is tucked away in Eze Village. I highly recommend the Village Suite for a wonderful experience because you are right in the heart of the medieval village. The rooftop terrace has stunning views of the coast. You really feel like you are walking back in time.
Address: 23 C route de l’Adret,

EZE RESTAURANTS

La Chevre d’Or (The Golden Goat)

Fine Dining: Upscale gourmet restaurant and bar with stunning views and delicious food. Expensive but worth the splurge. Amazing food that matches the incredible views of the French Riviera. World class food and service. Note – Elegant attire required.
Address: Rue du Barri, Eze

Le Nid d’Aigle (The Eagles Nest)

Moderately Priced: Delicious fresh food with a beautiful view set on the top of the mountain. Great salads, pizzas and omelettes. Dining is available on the outdoor terrace and the view from the indoor dining room is fantastic. A terrific regional wine list.
Address: 1 rue du Chateau, Eze

Deli’

Casual Dining: This is a great little place for lunch. The food is absolutely delicious. Deli is a small cozy outdoor space in beautiful surroundings. The freshest ingredients are used. The tomatoes were so perfectly ripe and the cheeses were amazing!!! The salads and foods are so flavorful! They bake their own bread and use infused olive oils and balsamic. They also sell items in a little olive oil shop. I wish I could go back to eat again! Very kind and friendly staff/ family. You cannot be disappointed!
Address: 5 rue du Chateau, Eze

EZE BEACHES

La Plage d’Eze

Eze has one beach located at the bottom of the mountain in Eze-sur-Mer. It is a great beach for swimming. You will find two beach clubs; posh Papaya and casual Anjuna Bay. Both clubs rent beds and umbrellas for about 20 euros. Access the beach from the Eze-sur-Mer train station’s underpass. Make a right and walk along the beach to reach the restaurants/clubs. Enjoy your day in the French sunshine!

THINGS TO DO IN EZE

Le Jardin Exotique d’Eze

These beautiful gardens have species of plants from all around the world. The garden offers spectacular panoramic views of the Mediterranean as it perched on the highest point of Eze. Admission is 6 euros.

Tropaeum Alpium (Victory Monument of the Alps)

These historical ruins were built in 6 BC in honor of emperor Augustus. It sits at the highest point on the mountain. Take in the breathtaking views of the entire French Riviera and the beauty of the architecture of this amazing historical monument.

Nietzsche Path

Do you like exercise and the great outdoors? Then this activity is for you! Hike down from Eze Village or up from Eze-sur-Mer (aka Eze-Bord-de-Mer) and enjoy the magnificent scenery. First of all, get an early start before the sun gets hot. In addition, take water and wear sneakers not flip flops. Most of the trail is stone and pebbles – you don’t want to slip. Depending upon your personal pace, this is about a 45-60 minute vertical hike, about 1650 feet, therefore expect a strenuous workout on the way up. Of course, you can always take it slower.

Hiking up the trail, I use the Eze-Bord-de-Mer train station as a landmark. At street level, with your back to the train station, make a right. Continue 5 minutes and on your left you will see a little sign ‘Sentier Nietzsche’. Follow ramp to the left and enjoy a healthy hike up to amazingly beautiful Eze Village.

The hike down from Eze Village gives you full views of the Mediterranean, so have your camera ready! When you finish the hike down, visit the lovely Eze-sur-Mer beach. Access to the descending trail from Eze village, is located at the bottom of the village (where the car parks are) on the cliffside. You will see a sign that says ‘EZE/MER – Gare Plage’. Enjoy the amazing scenic beauty on the way down.

Villefranche-sur-Mer

Enjoy a fabulous day of sightseeing, shopping or the beach in this charming French old town. There is so much to see and do in this fantastic village! Villefranche-sur-Mer is definitely one of my favorite places on the French Riviera. Visit my Villefranche-sur-mer blog post to read more about this wonderful, charming town.

Monte Carlo, Monaco

Casino of Monte Carlo

Monte Carlo, the land of the ultra rich and famous, is a mere 9 minute train ride from Eze. Visit the renowned Casino and if you get lucky, go shopping in the ultra high end stores! If not, enjoy sitting at a cafe in Casino Square and watch the people and exotic cars go by.

NEARBY EVENTS

Monaco Grand Prix

The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious automobile races in the world. The 2018 Monaco Grand Prix will begin on Thursday, May 24, 2018 and end on Sunday, May 27, 2018. For tickets and packages, click HERE for the official Formula 1 Monaco site.

Nice Carnival (Carnaval de Nice)

The capital of the French Riviera, Nice, hosts the area’s first winter event. This is amazing, world famous event attracts millions each year. The weather is mild even in the winter. In 2018, this carnival will be held from February 17th to March 3rd. Since this carnival spans a two week period, there are numerous festivities. Therefore, join in the fun!

Click HERE to see the Carnival’s official program and prices for grandstand or promenade tickets.

Travel Directions

Nice to Eze – Take bus 82 about a 30 minute ride.
Monte Carlo to Eze – Take bus 112 about a 30 minute ride
Villefranche-sur-Mer to Eze – walk to Beaulieu-sur-Mer and take bus 83. About a 15 minute ride. Or you can take the Neitzsche Path and hike up to Eze.

Eze is easily accessible by buses that run regularly. Most noteworthy, for your return trip, please make sure to check the bus schedules. Once you are in Eze, taxis are hard to find. Therefore, they will be an expensive option when you find one.

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. Moreover, 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.

(more…)

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.
In 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.

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

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.
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 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

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

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

THINGS TO DO in TAORMINA

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 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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

In 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?

(more…)

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 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 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

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

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?

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 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.

Verona Italy the City of Love

Discover Verona

I just spent 4 amazing days in Verona Italy. It is known as the city of love and the story of Romeo and Juliet. I found it to be one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. For example Verona boasts stunning architecture, Roman and medieval bridges, ancient frescos on building facades, beautiful churches, lovely piazzas – the list of WOW just goes on and on!

Not to mention that flowers and greenery are everywhere. It’s a photographers dream city. In addition, it is also the home of Valpolicella and Amarone wines! That raises the wow factor to the roof! This ancient city is built on the banks of the Adige River and it is one of the main tourist destinations in Northern Italy. Once you visit, it is easy to see why. This city of love and passion is a must see.

Every step is a surprise….

To truly discover Verona is to take hidden little streets. There are wide roads dating back to Roman times, but also little, narrower medieval ones which hide treasures and amazing sights.

Explore Verona

As you can see from the map above, the historic center of Verona is built between a narrow river bend. It has many popular attractions and is a totally walkable city. For example, to walk from the top of the map to the bottom is no longer that 20 minutes.

‘What to see in Verona’ – Get the scoop on the most popular attractions.

‘Things to do in Verona’ – Check out the best tours – walking, biking, rafting, wineries……

Pictures of Verona Attractions

Piazza delle Erbe

This is my favorite and most picturesque piazza.

Piazza Bra

This tremendous cobbled piazza has a park on one side and a line of restaurants and cafes along the other.

Castelvecchio

A spectacular medieval fortress which now holds a museum.

Verona Arena

This ancient arena still has performances to this day.

Juliet’s House

Verona and love go together like Romeo and Juliet. This is a must-see attraction.

Sant’ Anastasia Church

Located by Piazza dei Signori, St. Anastasia is the biggest church in town.

Basilica of San Zeno

San Zeno Church is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture.

Via Mazzini

Evening strolls and chic boutiques are the highlight of this most popular shopping street.

Pictures

Sorrento Italy

Explore charming and delightful Sorrento. It rests atop a cliff on one of the most beautiful and loved coastlines in the world. Sorrento Italy guarantees stunning views. You can see the glistening Mediterranean sea below from Mount Vesuvius to Capri – it is truly breathtaking. Certainly it is one of Italy’s most popular vacation destinations since ancient Roman times. Check out Getting to Sorrento from Naples for any travel help.Sorrento Italia, known for appetizing food and unique lidos, also has beautiful art and architecture. The charming historic center is made up of lovely narrow cobblestone streets. There are many cafes, boutiques and shops catering to your every taste. It is impossible to avoid lemons and delicious limoncello here – it is known as the land of lemons! Not only is Sorrento is a perfect base for visiting the Amalfi Coast Italy, but also nearby islands. A short ferry ride can whisk you away to gorgeous Capri and Ischia. Moreover, if you are historically minded, it is easy to get to Pompeii and Herculaneum. Also, a short 35 minute drive will take you to Positano. Excitement and wonderful possibilities await you on your Sorrento holiday.

Things to do in Sorrento

The town itself does not have a great deal of attractions. Therefore it is mainly used as a base from which to explore the surrounding areas. I recommend a two night stay if you are going to visit Capri. Also, It makes for a beautiful wedding backdrop, if you are inclined to tie the knot. On the other hand, it is so sweet to see a lovely bride and groom!

Explore Sorrento

First of all, take a stroll on Corso Italia. It is the main street in town with plenty of stores, hotels and eateries. During the evening, it turns into a lively pedestrian only walkway. Equally important is to explore all the alleys and lanes in this historic town. There are many cafes, shops and boutiques to discover. During your stroll, you will frequently stumble onto sculptures and art randomly mixed into the surroundings. Consequently you may find sweet surprises as you walk around.

Especially make sure to take a walk to the Villa Comunale Park which is at the edge of the cliff. There you have a spectacular panoramic view of the sparkling Bay of Naples. By the park you will find a winding walkway carved into the cliff. It leads down to the sea and lidos. The walk is a photographer’s dream – don’t forget your camera. Conversely, there is also a lift to take you up and down for 2 euros.

Moreover, here you will find Chiesa di San Francesco, a 14th century church. It boasts a gorgeous garden/courtyard with occasional art displays and showings. All are welcome to enjoy the tranquil beauty you will find here.

Piazza Tasso

Piazza Tasso is the main square of Sorrento. Live music, horse carriage rides and a mini tourist train are found here. Tasso is the town hub. It is lined with cafes, restaurants and shops. Be sure to order a cafe and enjoy the scene as people go by. During the evening, live musicians perform wonderful Italian music! Additionally, you will find another staircase here that will lead you down to the port and lidos.

On the whole, Sorrento is a fun, lively and wonderful town to visit. It is easy to get here from Naples and is a great first stop on the Amalfi Coast. I suggest staying a night or two before heading to Positano, Amalfi or Ravello. Also consider staying on Capri for a night or two.

Sorrento Beaches

Definitely make time to enjoy a day at the beach. Sorrento has unique lido’s with piers that jut out into the water. Check our my Sorrento Beach page for comprehensive info and rental prices.

Sorrento Restaurants

Of course, there is nothing better that great Southern Italian food! There are so many restaurants in Sorrento to choose from! Savor these amazing flavors at some of my favorite restaurants in Sorrento.

Sorrento Hotels

Get information on the best Sorrento Hotels from luxury to budget on my hotel post!

Nightlife in Sorrento

Fauno Notte Club

Fauno Notte in Piazza Tasso is a late night dance club. DJ and dancing fun. Most arrive after midnight and it closes at 5am!

Filou Club

This club/piano bar is so much fun! Sing with the piano man to great Italian and American tunes. It gets an after dinner crowd and is a definitely a blast! Sorrento Italy has a fun nightlife!

Day Trip to Capri

Take a hydrofoil to the gorgeous island of Capri.

Tag Archives: Impressed