Is it Safe to Travel to Italy Right Now? Yes! Why Now is the Perfect Time to Visit
Sara Braca
For some travelers planning their next trip, a practical question may come up: is it safe to travel to Italy right now? In a world where global events can feel constant and unpredictable, it’s a natural consideration.
The good news is that for those looking at Italy today, the reality on the ground remains steady, with daily life unfolding as it always has — accessible, welcoming, and easy to step into.
More importantly, this moment presents a genuine opportunity. With the right preparation, travel feels not only manageable, but deeply rewarding — and Italy stands out as one of the destinations best suited to this moment.
Why Italy Works So Well Right Now
Some destinations require effort. Italy, more often than not, meets you halfway.
There is an ease built into daily life here — in how people move, gather, eat, and interact. It’s a place where systems are established, hospitality is instinctive, and the rhythm of everyday life continues with a sense of continuity that travelers can step into.
That matters more than ever. Because what makes a destination feel “safe” today isn’t just infrastructure — it’s how intuitive and supported the experience feels once you arrive.
And with the peak crowds from the 2025 Jubilee and the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics now behind us, the following seasons may offer a particularly appealing moment to visit — when Italy begins to feel a little more relaxed again.
How to Travel to Italy with Confidence
Traveling well right now isn’t about eliminating uncertainty — it’s about planning for it in a way that gives you flexibility and peace of mind.
A few key considerations can make a significant difference:
Understand your reservations: Knowing exactly what can be changed — and when — removes a huge amount of stress.
Invest in comprehensive travel insurance: This is one of the simplest ways to protect your trip and your time.
Build a realistic, well-paced itinerary: Allowing space between destinations makes travel feel calmer and easier to navigate.
Make sure you have on the ground support: The unexpected can always happen, so having support on the ground gives you the confidence and space to relax, knowing you will be taken care of.
These aren’t complicated steps — but together, they create a foundation that allows you to focus less on logistics and more on the experience itself.
Why Support on the Ground Makes All the Difference
Even with the best planning, what truly changes the experience is knowing that you’re not handling everything alone.
In Italy, where nuance matters — timing, local relationships, the flow of a day — having someone on the ground can make a meaningful difference. Not only in how smoothly a trip runs, but in how secure and supported it feels throughout.
At Ciao Andiamo, our role is exactly that. We are based here, not planning from afar, which means we can anticipate details, adjust when needed, and ensure that each part of the journey connects seamlessly to the next.
If something shifts — whether it’s a small timing change or a larger adjustment — there is someone nearby to step in quickly and personally. And often, that’s what turns a potentially stressful moment into something barely noticed at all.
Co-owner Cristiana in Tuscany with travelers Touring Florence with our collaborator and tour guide, Freya
When Travel Feels Seamless, It Feels Safe
One of the most common things our travelers say after returning from Italy is how easy everything felt.
Not because nothing unexpected ever happens, but because the structure around the trip allows for flexibility without disruption. Transportation arrives as planned. Guides are prepared and thoughtful. Reservations are confirmed and coordinated. That level of organization creates something subtle but important: the ability to be present. To enjoy the moment instead of managing it.
And in times that feel uncertain elsewhere, that kind of ease becomes part of what makes a destination feel genuinely safe and travel so worthwhile.
A More Intentional Way to Experience Italy
Travel has shifted. Many people are no longer trying to see everything — they’re choosing to experience something fully. Italy lends itself naturally to that approach. A slower pace, fewer destinations, and more time in each place not only enrich the experience, but make it feel more grounded and manageable.
A morning overlooking a lake, an afternoon at a vineyard, an evening in a quiet piazza — these are the moments that define a trip. And they are often the ones that feel the most restorative.
A Final Thought: Traveling with Confidence
So, is it safe to travel to Italy?
For most travelers, the answer is yes — especially when the trip is approached thoughtfully.
More importantly, Italy is a place where travel can feel straightforward, supported, and truly enjoyable. Not because everything is perfectly predictable, but because the experience is structured in a way that allows you to move through it with ease.
With the right preparation — and the right people supporting you — travel doesn’t have to feel uncertain. It can feel exactly as it should: immersive, memorable, and surprisingly simple.
If you’re thinking about a seamless, well-supported Italian journey, you can contact our team or schedule a call. Our team is here to help you design it from start to finish.
10 Unique Italian Festivals Every Traveler to Italy Should Experience
Gina Mussio
When planning a trip to Italy, it’s easy to focus on the iconic landmarks and world-famous cities—but one of the most rewarding ways to truly experience Italian culture is by taking part in a local festival in Italy.
From colorful carnival celebrations, sacred processions or local food festivals, to something more esoteric like fiery cart explosions and races up mountains, Italian festivals offer a unique way to experience the country’s rich history, regional traditions, and culture.
Here are 10 of the best festivals in Italy to add to your bucket list:
Carnevale (Venice, Ivrea, Viareggio and more)
One of the most well-known festivals in Italy, Carnival is a sight worth seeing! Photo by Serge WOLFGANG from Pixabay
Celebrated in the weeks leading up to Lent, Carnevale in Italy is one of the country’s most iconic cultural events. Expect elaborate costumes, festive parades, masquerade balls, and traditional sweets.
Venice’s Carnevale is perhaps the most well-known. With dances, parades, and more, the city serves as a magical backdrop for the elaborate masks and costumes on display. Other favorites are the massive floats of the Carnival parades in Viareggio, Tuscany, or the unique Battle of the Oranges in Ivrea, Piedmont, in which the townspeople and “noblemen” representatives in carriages fight it out in an all-out orange-throwing battle.
The Easter Holy Week holds numerous events and festivals throughout Italy. There are religious ceremonies held every day of Holy Week, especially notable in Rome and the Vatican City. On the island of Sicily, it’s common to find processions during Holy Week. The most famous is perhaps the Procession of The Mysteries in Trapani. Representations of the death of Christ are paraded through the city streets for a whopping 24 hours, with mass participation and a whole lot of emotion.
Another unique Easter festival is the Scoppio del Carro, or Explosion of the Cart, in Florence. It is based on a particularly religious Florentine from the 11th century, who was given three flints from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre after scaling the walls of Jerusalem to claim Palestine for Christianity. Today, the Florentine’s faith and courage are celebrated every Easter Sunday in an elaborate ritual that includes a spectacular fireworks display, exploding directly from a massive cart parked in front of the cathedral.
The Palio di Siena is not just a horse race—it’s a centuries-old rivalry between the 17 contrade, or districts, of Siena.
Held twice a year on July 2 and August 16, the horses race three laps around the famed Piazza del Campo that has been prepared with sand and dirt for the occasion, while thousands of passionate spectators cheer them on. The jockeys ride bareback and the first horse to cross the finish line—rider or not—wins the coveted Palio banner. Whether part of the stands or not, the entire city turns out to eat, party and celebrate the event.
Opera Festival (Verona)
The ancient Verona Arena holds music festivals every summer.
Dedicate some time during your summer visit to Verona to a concert or opera in the ancient Arena of Verona. Built in 30 AD, the Arena served as a precursor to Rome’s Colosseum. It is still used today as an open-air performance space. In fact, the Arena’s acoustics are so remarkable that performers sing without microphones.
Whether you’re an opera fan or not, opera in the Verona Arena is a must-do activity. Go to experience Italian culture, participate in history and enjoy a magnificent Italian summer evening in the biggest open-air opera house in the world.
Originating in Florence in the 16th century, Calcio Storico is a historic game played every June between four teams representing the city’s four ancient districts. The match takes place in the iconic Piazza Santa Croce, right in front of the stunning cathedral. A mix of soccer, rugby, and wrestling, Calcio Storico is an intense, physical game where players use their hands, feet—and often sheer force—to score.
Today, it remains one of Florence’s fiercest competitions, a unique spectacle unlike any other, and a powerful expression of local pride and tradition.
Truffle hunters in Piedmont search for the prized white truffle of Alba.
Every year from October to December, Alba hosts the White Truffle Fair to showcase the region’s gastronomic excellence and, particularly, the finest truffles from the area. Every weekend, visitors can take part in historical reenactments, folk performances, cooking shows and classes, dinners and tastings of the prized white truffle. Those hoping to take home a gastronomic souvenir can stop in the Alba White Truffle World Market to purchase the finest quality-controlled white truffles in Italy.
Festa dei Ceri (Gubbio)
Every year this Medieval “city of stone” holds the Festa dei Ceri. The Ceri are three huge, heavy, wooden artifacts holding statues of Saint Ubaldo (the patron saint of the city), Saint Anthony and Saint George. These are held on the shoulders of local volunteers who run them through the streets of the city, all the way up to the top of Mount Ingino in a massive and physical demonstration. At the top of the Mount, the Ceri are left inside the Basilica di Sant’Ubaldo and the statues are carried back down the mountain. The festival has ancient roots and is a unique religious ritual that is truly something to see!
La Cavalcata Sarda (Sardinia)
The Calvalcata Sarda is a horse race marking the start of spring and commemorates the day King Umberto I visited Sassari, Sardinia to unveil the Piazza d’Italia in 1899. Held on the second-to-last Sunday of May, the Cavalcata celebrates with traditional costumes, parades, and horse-riding stunts in a true display of Sardinia’s proud cultural heritage.
Umbria Jazz Festival (Perugia)
One of the newest festivals on the list, the Umbria Jazz Festival was started in the 1970s and has grown into one of the most important music festivals in all of Italy. Every year in July, the city of Perugia in Umbria permeates jazz with renowned performances in venues, churches and even city streets for an entire week! Past performers include the greats in the genre like BB King, Miles Davis, and Natalie Cole, as well as non-genre performers like Eric Clapton and even Lady Gaga. The Umbria Jazz Festival has been such a success that the city hosts a second Jazz Week Festival in the winter for those unable to make it to the summer event.
Infiorata (Spello, Noto, Genzano)
Leaves and flower petals serve as the materials for massive displays of art during the various Infiorata festivals in Italy. Photo by Antonio Dazzetti via wikicommons
Another festival celebrated in various locations throughout Italy is the Infiorata, or flower decorations. From late spring to early summer, Italy blooms—literally. The Infiorata festivals transform the streets of towns like Spello, Noto, and Genzano into magnificent carpets and mosaics of flowers in an explosion of color. The event is often held during the Feast of Corpus Christi and draws crowds from all over the country.
Italy’s festivals are more than just events—they’re a living expression of the country’s culture, history, and community spirit. Each celebration offers a chance to connect more deeply with Italy, so be sure to check the calendar as you plan your next Italian adventure—you might just stumble upon one of the most unforgettable experiences of your trip!
Ready to experience one of Italy’s best festivals? Join a small-group or bespoke journey with Ciao Andiamo and immerse yourself in the heart of Italy’s most vibrant traditions!
Experience Florence Like a Local: Celebrate San Giovanni on June 24th
Jean Chapman
When most travelers imagine Tuscany, they picture sun-drenched vineyards, rolling hills, and cypress-lined streets. But at the heart of Tuscany lies Florence—elegant, storied, and pulsing with a timeless energy. This Renaissance jewel is more than a living museum; it’s a city that celebrates its history not just through its architecture and art, but in its streets, with traditions passed down through generations.
The Feast of San Giovanni
June 24 marks the Festa di San Giovanni—the Feast Day of Saint John the Baptist, the patron saint of Florence. This vibrant annual celebration blends centuries-old traditions with modern festivities in a city-wide display of pageantry, historic games, and fireworks. And for travelers who want to go deeper—who seek the authentic rhythm of Tuscan life—this is a moment not to miss.
With roots stretching back hundreds of years, the Festa di San Giovanni is a uniquely Florentine tradition where the past comes to life. The city awakens early to the sounds of church bells and ceremonial drums, as a historic parade winds through the center. Participants dressed in ornate Renaissance costumes fill the streets with vibrant color, making their way from Piazza della Signoria to the majestic Baptistery of San Giovanni. This procession is followed by a special mass asking Florence’s patron saint to bless the city for the year ahead.
Historic Soccer, Like You’ve Never Seen it Before
The Calcio Storico teams face off in Florence, Italy, during the Festa di San Giovanni
The highlight of the day is Calcio Storico—a historic game celebrating Florentine spirit and tradition. Though its name means “historic soccer,” Calcio Storico more closely resembles a mix of rugby and wrestling, played in 16th-century costumes. Teams from the city’s four traditional neighborhoods—the Reds of Santa Maria Novella, Blues of Santa Croce, Greens of San Giovanni, and Whites of Santo Spirito—face off in the transformed Piazza Santa Croce, which becomes a sand-filled arena for the day. The winning team earns citywide bragging rights for the year, and a hero’s welcome in their home neighborhood.
Evening Magic Over the Arno
Fireworks end the day’s festivities
As night falls, the festivities conclude with a spectacular fireworks show launched from Piazzale Michelangelo, high up on the hill overlooking Florence. The display is visible throughout the city, and many restaurants—especially those with terraces or rooftops—offer special menus to mark the occasion. Be sure to make reservations in advance, as tables fill up quickly and taxis become scarce. Because with a glass of wine in hand and the city glowing beneath the bursts of light, it’s easy to understand why Florence has inspired artists, poets, and romantics for centuries.
Insider Tips from Ciao Andiamo
Arrive Early: Florence is especially busy in late June. To enjoy the festivities with ease, consider arriving a few days before the 24th to settle in and soak up the atmosphere.
Stay Central: Choose accommodations near the historic center so you can walk to key events and avoid traffic on this busy day.
See the Game: If Calcio Storico piques your curiosity, let us help you book your tickets – the sooner the better because spots fill quickly!
Savor the Night: Join locals along Lungarno degli Acciaiuoli or Ponte Santa Trinita for beautiful, less crowded views of the fireworks.
Why Travel to See the Feast of San Giovanni?
At Ciao Andiamo, we believe Italy is best experienced not just by seeing its beauty, but by stepping into its stories. The Festa di San Giovanni is Florence at its most alive—with a celebration that’s been centuries in the making.
We can help you craft your dream Italian adventure, and many of our suggested itineraries include Florence, including Italy for First Timers, Enchanted Italy, and Italy Immersion. And if you’re in Florence on June 24, join the locals in celebrating San Giovanni—raise a glass, cheer on your neighborhood, and enjoy one of the city’s most cherished traditions.
What to Do in the Dolomites: 7 Unmissable Experiences in Italy’s Mountain Paradise
Gina Mussio
The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for their jagged limestone peaks, fairytale villages, and year-round outdoor adventures. Enjoy the stunning scenery of the Dolomites in summer or winter with whatever activities you have planned!
If you’re wondering what to do in the Dolomites, here are seven unforgettable experiences that showcase the best of this alpine wonderland:
Drive a Mountain Pass
Driving the high-altitude passes in the Dolomites is a must for any visitor. Roads like Passo Gardena, Passo Sella, and Passo Pordoi wind through dramatic alpine scenery with panoramic views at every turn. These scenic drives connect many of the region’s top destinations and they are favorites of cyclists and photographers. Pack a picnic or stop at a mountain hut for lunch with a view!
Tour a South Tyrolean Town
The Dolomites are nestled in South Tyrol (Alto Adige), a fascinating region in northern Italy where Austrian and Italian cultures intertwine. Here, both German and Italian are official languages, and Ladin—a local Alpine language—is spoken in some valleys, adding even more richness to the region’s identity.
Charming towns like Ortisei, Bolzano, Brunico, and Bressanone offer more than just picturesque scenery—they provide a deep dive into a unique Alpine lifestyle. In Ortisei, you can admire colorful Alpine chalets and shop for the area’s renowned hand-carved wooden Nativity figures. Bolzano is home to the famous Ötzi the Iceman at the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, a neolithic man found entombed in ice in the region. Brunico, surrounded by lush forests and mountains, features a medieval castle and access to the Messner Mountain Museum. Bressanone offers its Baroque cathedral, cloisters, and serene riverside promenades.
These towns are ideal for slow travel, where you can soak in the scenery, appreciate the hospitality, and understand how centuries of history and geography have shaped a culture unique in Italy.
Go Hiking
The Dolomites are home to some of the most iconic hiking trails in Europe. Besides the sheer beauty, the Dolomites are unique because you can find breathtaking hikes at every fitness level, from easy family walks to challenging via ferrata routes. Thanks to the Dolomites’ excellent lift system, you can take a cable car or gondola up to higher elevations, meaning you skip the steepest climbs and start your hike already surrounded by stunning alpine scenery. The Seceda, Sass Pordoi, and Lagazuoi cable cars all bring you to jaw-dropping viewpoints in minutes. Also thanks to the excellent infrastructure, you can expect regular rifugi, or mountain huts, along the way. Ranging from rustic to five-star, these mountain huts offer a place to rest your feet and get a bite to eat along the way.
Go Skiing in the Dolomiti Superski Area
With nearly 750 miles of interconnected slopes, Dolomiti Superski is one of the largest ski networks in the world. Covering 12 ski areas and over 450 lifts on a single ski pass, it offers incredible variety and accessibility. Whether you stay in Val Gardena, Alta Badia, Cortina d’Ampezzo, or another resort town, you’ll find well-groomed pistes for every level—from gentle beginner runs to steep black diamonds and off-piste adventures.
A must-do for intermediate skiers and above is the legendary Sella Ronda, a panoramic ski circuit that loops around the Sella Massif, allowing visitors to ski through four valleys in one day. And of course, don’t forget the joy of a wonderful après ski!
Try Another Outdoor Sport
While hiking and skiing are top draws, the Dolomites are a haven for other sports too. Cyclists can tour the valleys or challenge themselves on steep uphill climbs. Mountain bikers can enjoy routes throughout the mountain range, while families and casual riders can rent pedal-assisted or traditional bikes for scenic rides surrounded by dramatic peaks.
The region is also a world-class destination for rock climbing, with opportunities ranging from outdoor climbing walls to legendary via ferrata routes pioneered during World War I. In winter, beyond downhill skiing, you can enjoy snowshoeing, sledding, or cross-country skiing along well-maintained trails.
Adrenaline seekers can try paragliding over the jagged Dolomite peaks for a once-in-a-lifetime perspective of this alpine wonderland.
The Dolomites also hold a special place in Olympic history. Cortina d’Ampezzo, one of the area’s most famous resort towns, hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics and is set to co-host the 2026 Winter Olympics alongside Milan. This Olympic heritage means that visitors can enjoy world-class sports infrastructure and even glide down some of the same slopes used by champions past and present.
Whatever your sport, the Dolomites offer endless outdoor adventure year-round.
Relax at the Spa
After a day of skiing, hiking, or exploring alpine towns, there’s nothing quite like unwinding in a Dolomites spa. The region is home to some of Italy’s best wellness hotels, many of which feature panoramic saunas, heated outdoor pools, and soothing treatments using local herbs. Soak in a hot outdoor bath, warmed from the crisp mountain air with views of the valleys and jagged peaks beyond.
Towns like Merano, known for its historic thermal baths, and luxury resorts in Alta Badia or Val Gardena offer everything from traditional Tyrolean saunas to cutting-edge spa treatments.
Visit a Lake
Whether you hike or drive, an alpine lake in the Dolomites is worth a special visit. Jaw-droppingly beautiful, these lakes are the perfect backdrop to your Dolomites tour. Known for their vivid colors, beautiful reflections, and serene surroundings, the region’s lakes are perfect for a relaxing picnic, paddleboat ride, or even a refreshing foot bath!
The Instagram famous Lago di Braies, Dolomites. Photo by Luca Bravo
With the variety of activities and stunning landscapes, the Dolomites are an ideal destination for nature lovers, outdoor adventurers, and curious travelers. Whether you’re hiking beneath the peaks, tasting Tyrolean cuisine, or skiing through snow-covered valleys, every moment here is surrounded by beauty.
Want to explore the Dolomites without the stress of planning? Join Ciao Andiamo on our Alpine Adventure small group tour to discover the region’s best-kept secrets with expert local guides, or let us help you create your own private adventure through the Dolomites and Northern Wonders!
Believing in the power of writing to enrich travel, Ciao Andiamo teamed up with Michelle to create a small-group travel writing retreat last year in Liguria featuring guided writing sessions led by Michelle herself. And this October, we’ll be offering a new literary spin on last year’s trip – a book-club-style small-group tour with Michelle in Southern Italy.
Travel Writing Tour: An Italy Writing Retreat with Michelle Damiani
The travel writing tour in Liguria was led by Max, our co-owner and expert guide, and author Michelle Damiani, seen here with the books she’s written.
Michelle has written extensively about her own travels in Italy and co-led our Insider Journey Through the Riviera small-group tour in October 2024. You can read all about her experience in Liguria with Ciao Andiamo on herwebsite. On this tour, she not only taught, guided, and edited participants’ work, but also helped them discover the transformative nature of creative travel writing. Meanwhile, Ciao Andiamo managed all the logistics, ensuring a seamless experience for our guests.
Each day, travelers explored Liguria with Max, a Ciao Andiamo co-owner, expert guide, and local insider. With Max handling the details, guests could fully immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Italy.
Mornings began with a writing lesson over breakfast, setting the tone for the day’s exploration. The day’s experiences then inspired a travel journal entry. Each night, Michelle provided insightful edits, helping participants refine their writing through both the lens of their personal experiences and the fundamentals of great storytelling.
Fortunately, Liguria provides no shortage of creative inspiration, from its winding streets and vibrant markets to its dramatic coastline and flavorful cuisine.
The tour made its way from Milan to Piedmont to sample the prized Vercelli rice and delve into the region’s rich history of rice production. You can learn more about Italy’s premier rice and find two of our favorite risotto recipes here. After, the group ventured to Liguria to explore the Italian Riviera. Their first stop in the coastal region was Genova, a city of contrasts and hidden treasures and the perfect setting for a lesson on engaging all five senses in writing.
Participants had a lesson in the morning, then the chance to sightsee in beautiful Liguria during the day.
The tour took participants through Genova, Camogli, Recco, Sestri Levante, Cinque Terre, and glamorous Portofino, offering a well-balanced blend of structured activities and writing time. Highlights included a winery tour, a hands-on cooking class, and plenty of opportunities to absorb the magic of Italy at a writer’s pace.
Even unexpected challenges, like major rain storms and flooding, became part of the adventure. Thanks to Max’s deep knowledge of the area, the group safely navigated a flooded Camogli, making their way through overflowing Ligurian rivers before arriving at a cozy hotel bar in Sestri Levante—safe, warm, and with a story to tell!
As Michelle notes in her blog post, “The challenging bits become content. I particularly loved knowing that with Max at the wheel, I had the freedom to turn in my seat at any time and spark a conversation about the power of words. Plus, experiencing a Ciao Andiamo tour firsthand gave me the confidence to recommend them wholeheartedly.”
The challenging bits of travel become content in travel writing.
We enjoyed our tour with Michelle so much that we’ve planned another – this time, with a literary twist! Instead of writing, this trip will dive into the trend of reading retreats. A trip to Southern Italy will bring the words on the page to life as we tour some of Italy’s most captivating locations. It’s a perfect opportunity to experience an immersive reading retreat in Europe and create a book-club-style community in the heart of Southern Italy.
Join us on our next literary tour, Southern Italy with Michelle Damiani, to see the world – and your reading – in a whole new way!
The Ultimate Guide to a Dreamy Valentine’s Day in Italy
Gina Mussio
Valentine’s Day in Italy is more than just a holiday—it’s a celebration of love woven into the country’s rich history, stunning scenery, and passionate culture. With picturesque cities, breathtaking landscapes and decadent dishes, Italy serves beauty and indulgence on a platter, offering couples endless ways to embrace love. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or looking for ways to bring an Italian touch to your Valentine’s Day at home, let us help you create an unforgettable romantic experience.
The Romantic History of Valentine’s Day in Italy
Did you know that Italy is home to the patron saint of love?
Saint Valentine was a 3rd-century priest from Terni, a charming town in Umbria. During the Roman Empire’s painful transition from paganism to Christianity, legend has it that Valentine was secretly marrying Christian couples in direct defiance of Emperor Claudius’ orders. When he refused to renounce his faith, Claudius had Valentine beheaded on February 14th. After that, Saint Valentine became known as the patron saint of lovers.
Saint Valentine was mostly forgotten until the 5th century when the Catholic Church turned its sights on the Lupercalia festival, a pagan festival celebrating fertility. Pope Gelasius decided to transform this unbridled and “immoral” festival into a day dedicated to love, and he used Saint Valentine to do it.
Today, Terni hosts an annual festival dedicated to Saint Valentine. The entire town gets decorated and couples travel from all over Italy to visit the Basilica di San Valentino and take part in the special Blessing of the Engaged ceremony.
Romantic Places in Italy: The Best Destinations for Couples
The beauty of the Amalfi Coast is innately romantic.
Choosing the right backdrop sets the tone for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day. Whether you prefer scenic coastlines, charming cities, or countryside retreats, Italy has a dreamy destination for every couple.
Take an iconic gondola ride in breathtaking Venice or stroll Verona, the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, and Italy’s veritable city of love.
Enjoy the luxury and tranquility of Lake Como’s glittering waters, elegant villas and alpine views. Head to the coastline to tour the beautiful Italian Riviera or go south for the Amalfi Coast’s colorful cliffside villages and panoramic sea views. Enjoy the intimacy of Puglia’s whitewashed towns or fall in love with the sandy beaches of Sardinia. Sicily, with its mix of dramatic coastlines, charming villages, and rich history, is another perfect choice for a romantic getaway.
No matter where you go, Italy’s enchanting atmosphere makes for the perfect Valentine’s Day escape.
Best Valentine’s Day Gifts: Made in Italy, With Love
The best Valentine’s Day requires a Valentine’s Day gift. Whether big or small, the time, effort and thought behind a gift is a joy to a loved one.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Italy with an authentic Made-in-Italy gift for your valentine, like this Murano glass, handcrafted in Venice.
Finding the perfect Valentine’s Day gift is easy in Italy, where artisanal craftsmanship and culinary delights abound. Look for our favorite Made-in-Italy products right from the source: Italian leather goods, from handcrafted wallets to elegant handbags, showcase timeless craftsmanship and style. Murano glass jewelry and products, crafted in Venice, are beautiful and colorful keepsakes. Hand-carved wood products from Trentino or hand-glazed pottery from Umbria or the Amalfi Coast will add a touch of an Italian vacation to your home forever.
For the culinary or armchair traveler, a beautifully packaged bottle of extra virgin olive oil, such as those available from Ciao’s Negozio, makes for a thoughtful, high-quality gift and adds a touch of Italian flavor to any kitchen. High-quality ingredients, like Piedmont’s Vercelli rice, ideal for risotto, are the perfect touch for a romantic night cooking-in or a delicious present.
Whether it’s a gourmet delicacy, a piece of handcrafted artistry, or a personalized touch, Italy offers endless possibilities for meaningful gifts.
Time for a Romantic Dinner in Italy
Moving on to Valentine’s Day night out, a romantic dinner is an essential part of Valentine’s Day. Luckily dining in Italy is an experience that celebrates both love and tradition.
Linger over a local Italian meal for hours with a loved one for an intimate and memorable Valentine’s dinner. We suggest going seasonal and local for the best dining experience. Enjoy fresh seafood along the Amalfi Coast, savor a truffle-infused pasta dish in Tuscany, or indulge in the rustic flavors of a cozy Roman trattoria. Restaurants across Italy take special care in crafting menus that highlight regional specialties.
No matter where you decide to spend your Valentine’s Day dinner, sharing a meal in Italy is an experience to be savored.
End the Day with a Little Treat
Valentine’s Day in Italy isn’t complete without a bit of indulgence. A bottle of Amarone, with its bold and velvety notes, is the perfect choice for wine lovers looking to elevate a romantic evening, while a crisp and refreshing Vermentino from Liguria pairs beautifully with seafood and lighter dishes.
After the wine, end your perfect Valentine’s Day date with a sweet treat. Choose a delicate tiramisu, a millefoglie with fresh fruit, or keep it simple with a timeless box of chocolates. Give a bacio, or kiss, with Italy’s Baci Perugina, sweet chocolates from Umbria wrapped in love notes, or tour the artisanal chocolate studios of Modica in Sicily and taste their unique dark chocolates on site. Whether sipping wine under the stars or sharing a decadent dessert, these indulgences make for a truly special Valentine’s Day.
The beauty of beautiful Verona, seen here, is the perfect backdrop for a romantic Valentine’s Day in Italy.
Whether you’re strolling alongside Venice’s canals, sharing a candlelit dinner in Rome, or indulging in the finest Italian chocolates at home, Italy offers endless ways to make Valentine’s Day truly magical. From breathtaking locations and handmade gifts to exquisite cuisine and wine, every detail adds to the romance of the occasion.
Contact Ciao Andiamo today to start planning your dreamy Valentine’s Day in Italy and create memories that will last a lifetime.
2025 Jubilee Year in Rome: A Guide for an Unforgettable Visit
Gina Mussio
On December 24, 2024, the Roman Catholic Church opened the doors to the highly anticipated 2025 Jubilee Year. Pope Francis inaugurated this Holy Year by opening the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, marking the beginning of a year filled with spiritual significance, cultural events, and historical resonance.
A Jubilee Year is an extraordinary spiritual event that will bring millions of pilgrims and hundreds of religious and cultural events to Rome.
Millions of pilgrims will travel to the Vatican City for the 2025 Jubilee. Image by Nimrod Oren from Pixabay
Whether you’re a religious pilgrim seeking spiritual renewal or a curious traveler eager to explore the Eternal City in a new light, the 2025 Jubilee Year promises an unforgettable experience. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit:
What is a Jubilee Year?
A Jubilee Year is a sacred tradition in the Roman Catholic Church with the goal of fostering spiritual renewal and reconnection with God, humanity, and creation. The practice dates back to the 1300s when Pope Boniface VIII declared the first Christian Jubilee. Initially celebrated every 50 years after the ancient Jewish ritual of debt forgiveness, Jubilees are now observed every 25 years. For the faithful, participating in Jubilee rituals grants a plenary indulgence—a remission of all temporal punishment for sins.
The theme for the 2025 Jubilee, “Pilgrims of Hope,” emphasizes unity, compassion, and renewal. Pilgrims worldwide are invited to journey to Rome to seek grace and forgiveness. The opening of the Holy Doors in the four papal basilicas is key to the celebration, symbolizing a path to spiritual transformation.
What to Expect During the 2025 Jubilee
With millions of pilgrims and travelers expected to visit Rome in 2025, the city will be abuzz with activity.
Travelers can expect larger crowds and major landmarks like St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Colosseum will experience increased foot traffic. Advance reservations and well-organized itineraries will be essential to a productive visit.
If planning feels overwhelming, consider booking with a trusted travel provider like Ciao Andiamo, which can handle all your reservations and itineraries.
Though this important event will increase the number of visitors, it is also an opportunity for Rome to upgrade and improve its infrastructure, meaning visitors may benefit from improved facilities and transportation.
How to Escape the Crowds
Avoid the Jubilee Year crowds with plenty of advance planning. Photo by Prayitno Hadinata via flickr
While Rome will undoubtedly be bustling during the Jubilee, savvy travelers can still find tranquility by planning wisely and exploring alternatives.
Avoid Major Christian Holidays
To miss the largest crowds, avoid visiting Rome during major Christian holidays such as Easter, All Saints’ Day, and Christmas, when the city reaches peak activity. Opt for weekdays over weekends, and consider early morning or late evening visits to popular attractions. These quieter times offer a more intimate experience of Rome’s iconic sites.
Consider Roman Alternatives
For those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, Rome is full of hidden treasures. Visit Ostia Antica, the ancient port city just outside Rome, which boasts well-preserved ruins and fewer visitors. The Appian Way offers a serene escape with historic landmarks like the Catacombs of San Sebastiano. Alternatively, explore quieter yet stunning churches, such as Santa Maria in Trastevere or San Clemente, which provide spiritual and architectural beauty without the crowds.
Go on a Day Trip
If you wish to venture beyond the city, day trips to nearby destinations offer a refreshing change of pace. Tivoli, home to the exquisite Villa d’Este and Villa Adriana, offers beautiful gardens and Roman ruins. Other options include the historic towns of Assisi and Orvieto in Umbria where history and charm abound. Or, plan to spend time even further afield along the Amalfi Coast or exploring some of Florence’s most beautiful churches and world class museums. These destinations allow travelers to soak in Italy’s rich heritage while escaping the hustle and bustle of Rome.
Jubilee Highlights: What to See and Do in 2025
Pope Francis in front of the Holy Doors of St. Peter’s Basilica, preparing to open them for the 2025 Jubilee Year.. Photo from the Jubilee’s official Facebook page
The 2025 Jubilee offers a wealth of experiences, blending religious significance with cultural richness.
For those seeking spiritual enrichment, the Holy Doors of Rome’s four papal basilicas—St. Peter’s, St. John Lateran, St. Paul Outside the Walls, and St. Mary Major—are central pilgrimage sites. Passing through these doors is a symbolic act of faith, renewal, and grace. Additionally, the year will be marked by special masses, blessings, and other religious ceremonies, providing moments of reflection and connection.
Even if you are not religious, the Jubilee Year offers unique opportunities to experience Rome’s culture and history. The city’s rich traditions, coupled with the celebratory atmosphere, create a vibrant environment for all visitors.
Cultural enthusiasts can immerse themselves in Jubilee-themed historical exhibitions at museums across Rome, shedding light on the tradition and its impact over the centuries. Concerts, theatrical performances, and art exhibits by artists such as Chagall, Dalì and El Greco will also take place, offering unique opportunities to experience Rome’s vibrant artistic heritage.
Whether attending a solemn mass or enjoying a live concert, the Jubilee Year’s events promise to deepen your appreciation of Rome’s enduring spiritual and cultural legacy.
There’s plenty to see for cultural travelers during the 2025 Jubilee. Image by wendy CORNIQUET from Pixabay
The 2025 Jubilee Year in Rome promises to be a remarkable time for both spiritual pilgrims and curious travelers. With thoughtful planning, you can enjoy the rich culture and history of the Eternal City amidst the vibrant atmosphere of this special event.
Start planning now to ensure your visit is as meaningful and memorable as possible. Click here to ask us how!
5 Reasons Why Winter in Italy is the Perfect Off-Season Trip
Gina Mussio
Winter in Italy reveals a side of the country that many travelers miss. As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, the crowds thin out, the prices lower and a more tranquil Italy emerges, making it the perfect off-season escape.
From the snow-capped peaks in the north to the sun-kissed south, Italy in winter showcases all the best of the Bel Paese, without the usual hustle and bustle.
If you’re looking to explore Italy in a more relaxed, intimate way, here’s why winter may be the ideal time to visit:
Cozy Winter Cuisine
Spaghetti alla carbonara is another hearty Roman dish perfect for a cold winter’s night! Image by FatherSecret from Pixabay
Italian cuisine champions local, seasonal ingredients, and its winter cuisine is no exception. Embracing its cucina povera roots, Italy’s hearty winter dishes are a testament to the country’s agricultural traditions. Snack on roasted chestnuts as you wander city streets or savor winter specialties like cheesy cacio e pepe, polenta with rich meat stew or mushrooms, or warming soups such as the classic ribollita. Each paired with the perfect glass of wine, of course!
And don’t stop at the food! Warm up with a decadent hot chocolate, made from pure melted chocolate and served with whipped cream, or sip a glass of spiced mulled wine, a seasonal treat perfect for a chilly evening!
Unique Landscapes and Winter Sports
Winter in Italy offers beautiful winter landscapes with serene, picturesque views. Imagine sunlight shining in the crisp air surrounding Lake Como and Lake Garda, or the beauty of the snow-covered Alps framing northern Italy.
Italians don’t retreat indoors when the temperature drops. Instead, they embrace the season with outdoor activities. Head to the Dolomites for world-class skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. For more relaxed adventures, explore the trails of the central Apennines on foot or horseback. Those looking for something less sporty can enjoy a lively aprè ski event or simply dress properly and stroll through the beautiful parks, towns and cities, enjoying a bit of wintertime sun.
Italy, with its sun, sea, mountains, hills and some of the best food in the entire world, is a prime travel destination. It seems that most agree – approximately 86 million international tourists visited Italy in 2023, with around 65 million of those tourists came in summer alone!
Winter in Italy can offer a more peaceful retreat, with fewer lines and room to see the sights. Iconic destinations like Venice, Florence and Rome take on an enchanting, almost mystical ambiance. While major attractions like the Colosseum, Vatican, and Uffizi Gallery are less crowded, allowing for a more immersive experience. Visit Italy in winter to soak in the beauty of the country without the crowds.
Mild Temperatures Perfect for Exploring
For those seeking to escape the cold, southern Italy boasts a pleasant winter climate. Cities such as Naples, Palermo, and the towns along the Amalfi Coast maintain comfortable temperatures compared to the colder northern regions. Visitors can comfortably wander historic streets, visit ancient ruins, and savor outdoor dining without the sweltering summer heat. The mild Mediterranean climate invites travelers to experience the beauty and culture of southern Italy at a relaxed pace, making it an ideal destination for a winter getaway.
The Holidays, Winter Festivals and More
Lush and exclusive ‘Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II’ in the centre of Milan, next to the Dome and the famous Scala opera house. Photo by Ralf Steinberger on Flickr
Christmas is a magical time to experience Italian holiday traditions, complete with sparkling lights, festive treats and characteristic Christmas markets in cities like Bolzano and Florence, among others. The holiday season in Italy spans from around December 8th, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, to the Epiphany on January 6th. Unique to Italy, the tradition of La Befana—a kind witch who fills children’s shoes with sweets—is celebrated on Epiphany, often accompanied by parades and festivities in various towns. And of course New Year’s Eve is celebrated in town squares, bars and restaurants throughout the country, with concerts and fireworks to ring in the new year.
Finally, visitors in winter can also take part in one of the many Carnival celebrations throughout the country. It’s a time filled with seasonal treats and elaborate parties, parades and costumes. It’s an experience that brings joy and festivity to the colder months and is well worth witnessing!
Winter in Italy brings cultural events, beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities in the sun or snow. Embrace Italy’s quieter, charming winter season for a more intimate and unique travel experience.
Browse Ciao Andiamo’s expertly-crafted private trips to find an off-season adventure perfect for you!
8 Charming Italian Villages to Add to Your Itinerary
Gina Mussio
Italy’s iconic cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice are famous for their rich culture, art, and cuisine, but beyond these well-trodden paths lie Italy’s hidden gems—its quaint villages and charming hamlets. These lesser-known Italian villages offer an authentic slice of Italian life, perfect for a day trip or a quiet stop between major attractions.
Italy is full of charming villages and tiny towns teeming with authentic Italian flavor. Here are eight off-the-beaten-path Italian villages to consider for your next trip.
8 of the Best Italian Villages to Visit
Neive, Piedmont
Neive is a beautifully preserved medieval village in the Langhe wine region. As one of the borghi più belli d’Italia, or most beautiful hamlets of Italy, Neive is a charming, laidback town nestled among some of the region’s most famous vineyards and world-renowned wineries. Tour the characteristic cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and excellent wine cellars and savor a glass of Barbera wine away from the crowds! Read about what to do, see and eat in Piedmont, one of Italy’s top culinary regions.
Varenna, Lombardy
Varenna is one of the most beautiful lakefront Italian villages and well-worth a visit. It’s potentially even more beautiful when seen from the water! Image by Angelika from Pixabay
Located on Lake Como’s eastern shore, Varenna is a picturesque alternative to its busier neighbors, Bellagio and Menaggio. Easy to reach by road or ferry, it is most known for its gorgeous waterfront promenade lined with pastel-colored houses and inviting aperitivo spots, Varenna is easily one of the most picturesque villages on the lake. Go for a romantic stroll along the lakefront pathway and enjoy the beautifully landscaped gardens of Villa Monastero, with wide open views of the lake beyond.
Visit Varenna and beautiful Villa Monastero on Ciao Andiamo’s private Northern Italy Escape.
Colle Val d’Elsa, Tuscany
For a taste of Tuscany’s medieval charm without the tourist crowds, visit Colle Val d’Elsa. This hilltop town, often overshadowed by San Gimignano, offers atmospheric narrow streets, stunning views, and a peaceful escape. Divided into two parts, Colle Bassa and Colle Alta, and connected by elevators, Colle Alta is particularly impressive with its stone roads and walls, creating a unique and historic ambiance day or night.
Spello, Umbria
The medieval gates of Spello are another sight worth seeing in this beautiful Italian village. Photo by chatst2 from Pixabay
Tiny Spello is considered one of the most beautiful villages of Italy. A delightful medieval village known for its flower-filled streets and well-preserved Roman and medieval architecture. The town is particularly famous for its annual Infiorate flower festival, where intricate flower carpets line the streets. Even outside of the festival, it’s a peaceful, beautiful place to explore, one where the locals take pride in cultivating beauty even in small window boxes and expertly decorated balconies.
Orvieto, Umbria
Orvieto’s Cathedral is remarkably royal for such a small village.
Few hilltop towns compare to striking Orvieto, precariously perched atop a tufo stone plateau. Explore the town’s underground tunnels, cantinas, and the city’s famous double-helix well before heading to its statement-making Gothic cathedral. Orvieto offers great views, delicious food and a lively local atmosphere, all within 90 minutes from Rome and Florence.
Ravello, Campania
Though everyone knows of the Amalfi Coast, those looking for a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere will enjoy Ravello, a serene village perched high above the sea. Known for its stunning gardens of Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo, Ravello offers sweeping views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. It’s the perfect place for a peaceful retreat while still enjoying the beauty and cuisine of the Amalfi region.
Tour the most iconic spots of the Amalfi Coast on our Amalfi Coast tour.
Ostuni, Puglia
The White City of Ostuni is a hilltop town with a stunning labyrinth of whitewashed buildings, narrow alleyways, and picturesque squares. Stroll the medieval streets of the charming old town, tour the Gothic cathedral or simply enjoy the spectacular views of the surrounding olive groves and the Adriatic Sea in the distance, just 8 km from the village. Ostuni is a true gem and a memorable stop on any tour of Puglia.
Scilla, Calabria
Scilla is a perfect off-the-beaten-path Italian village to visit for travelers seeking authentic Italian culture. Photo by Anna Majkowska via flickr
Located on the Strait of Messina, Scilla is a seaside village with a relaxed vibe and stunning views. The Chianalea district, often called the “Venice of the South,” is full of old fisherman houses right by the water. The village is dominated by Castello Ruffo, offering stunning views of the sea. Visit the Marina Grande beach to soak in the most iconic landscape of Scilla: the crystal-clear sea beyond and the Ruffo Castle towering above the beach, guarding the town since the 5th century. This village’s vibe is definitely laid back, combining the charm of a small town with the relaxed atmosphere of the best coastal towns.
Modica, Sicily
In the heart of Baroque Val di Noto, in southeastern Sicily, Modica is set apart for its chocolate. Supposedly influenced by ancient Aztec techniques, Modica’s unique chocolate and history add something sweet to the Baroque architecture. The town itself is built on two levels, divided into Modica Alta (upper Modica) and Modica Bassa (lower Modica), with spectacular views from both sides. The Baroque architecture here is impressive, especially the Church of San Giorgio, one of the most striking in Sicily.
Modica is just one of the amazing stops offered on our 11-day Discover Italy tour.
These villages offer an authentic slice of Italian life, perfect for a day trip where you can escape the more crowded tourist spots and experience Italy’s hidden gems
Want to discover Italy’s hidden gems? Contact us for a bespoke Italian itinerary that includes these charming villages, perfect for a day trip or an extended stay.
15 Classic Italian Dishes to Try in Italy’s Top Destinations
Gina Mussio
Italy is a paradise for food lovers. Each region offers an array of local culinary delights, deeply rooted in the area’s geography and traditions. From the rich pasta dishes of Rome to the seafood specialties of Venice, each region has its own unique flavors and iconic dishes. So when in Italy, try reaching for the local specialty no matter where you are! Join us on a gastronomic tour of Italy’s top destinations and their classic Italian dishes.
What to Eat in Italy and Where
Lazio: History and Tradition
Spaghetti alla carbonara is a classic Italian dish that everyone should eat at least once when in Rome. Image by FatherSecret from Pixabay
Rome, the eternal city, boasts a rich culinary heritage. Two of its most famous pasta dishes are Cacio e Pepe and Carbonara. Cacio e Pepe is a simple yet delicious combination of pasta, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper. It’s a grown-up version of macaroni and cheese that will make you wonder how you ever ate the boxed kind. A classic Carbonara pasta creates a creamy sauce by whipping together raw eggs and Pecorino Romano cheese, add pancetta and pepper for a bit of salt and savoriness and indulge.
For those looking beyond pasta, choose one of Rome’s two artichoke dishes: Carciofi all Romana or Carciofi alla Giudia. The first, are artichokes braised with garlic, mint and olive oil and cooked to perfection. The latter comes from Rome’s Jewish heritage. In Carciofi alla Giudia, the artichoke is deep-fried to a crispy perfection.
Tuscany: A Carnivore’s Delight
Tuscany is renowned for its rustic and hearty cuisine. The star of the Tuscan table is undoubtedly the Bistecca alla Fiorentina, or Florentine steak. So big that you can usually only order it with a minimum of two people, this thick, juicy T-bone steak is traditionally cooked over a wood fire, seasoned with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil, and served rare to highlight its rich flavor.
Follow the Tuscan tradition of using game meat with crostini with liver pate, pici with wild boar sauce or pappardelle with hare ragù.
Emilia Romagna, often called Italy’s gastronomic heartland, is home to Italy’s world-famous Balsamic Vinegar production. The region has been perfecting the vinegar-making process since the 16th century when the Este court moved to Modena and dedicated attic space in the palace to vinegar production. Protected by the DOP certification (just like wine), fermented in specific wood barrels and aged 12 to 25 years, don’t underestimate the rich and complex flavor that authentic Italian balsamic vinegar adds to salads, meats, strawberries and even desserts.
Venice offers a unique way to explore its culinary heritage through Cicchetti, small tapas-style dishes served in local bàcari (wine bars). For a few euros, get a small glass of wine and a plate of bite-sized snacks which usually include marinated seafood, polenta or crostini topped with various spreads, vegetables or meats. Try the offering at a few different bàcari to sample a variety of local flavors.
Campania: The Birthplace of Pizza
No visit to Naples would be complete without indulging in a Pizza Margherita. This classic Neapolitan pizza features a thin, chewy crust topped with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil, celebrating the colors of the Italian flag and the simplicity of its ingredients. Some legends claim that the pizza was created to honor the Queen of Italy, Margherita of Savoy, during a visit to the iconic city, others say it was to honor Italy upon unification by using the colors of the flag. No matter the case, a classic Margherita pizza is always a great choice.
Lombardy: Classic Elegance
Milan, Italy’s fashion and financial hub, also shines in the culinary arena. Risotto alla Milanese is a creamy rice dish flavored with precious saffron, giving it a distinctive golden hue and rich flavor. Another Milanese classic is Ossobuco, braised veal shanks cooked with white wine, broth, and vegetables. Diners may fight for the midolo or melty bone marrow in the middle.
Liguria: Fresh, Fragrant and Salty
Pesto pasta is a classic Italian dish from Liguria
Liguria, with its picturesque coastal scenery, offers fresh and fragrant culinary delights. Pesto Genovese, a vibrant green basil pesto sauce made with pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, is a regional specialty. Eat it atop trofie pasta, as a condiment for potato salad or vegetables or on a simple focaccia bread sandwich with tomato and mozzarella.
Liguria’s famous focaccia is all the flavors of the region in one: olive oil and sea salt and an array of toppings to choose from such as local olives, rosemary or tomatoes. It’s the perfect seaside snack!
Sicily: A Melting Pot of Flavors
Sicily’s history as a stopping point for travelers from the time of the ancient Greeks has long made the island a melting pot of various cultural influences. This is perhaps most seen in its food. From the salty-sweet combination of a classic eggplant caponata with local raisinsto the influence of spices like nutmeg, saffron and cinnamon in its dishes, the different invasions of Normans, Arabs, Greeks and Spanish have made Sicily’s cuisine one of the most unique in Italy. While here, try a classic street food item: the arancini. Crispy fried rice balls stuffed with ragù, cheese, peas, or other fillings, these golden delights are inexpensive, filling and delicious.
Or Try a Cooking Class!
Learn how to make a classic Italian dish – like pasta making in Umbria!
Now that you know more about authentic Italian cuisine, why not learn to make some key dishes at home? Learning to make pasta in Umbria, crafting perfect pizza in Naples, or whipping up risotto in Milan will give you a deeper understanding and appreciation of Italy’s culinary traditions.
Italy’s culinary landscape is as diverse and vibrant as its culture and history. Each region offers unique flavors and traditions, making the country a true haven for food enthusiasts. Whether you’re savoring the simplicity of a Roman pasta dish, indulging in a Florentine steak, or enjoying the fragrant flavors of Ligurian pesto, Italy’s culinary delights are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Get access to all these foods and more on Ciao Andiamo’s Grand Tour of Italy with feasts featuring local cuisine, a hands-on cooking class, and behind-the-scenes wine tastings!
In the history of the classic “Grand Tour” of Europe, Italy was a must for any traveler’s itinerary. For many, it was the top destination, with several months spent exploring the peninsula from north to south. Today’s travelers might not have several months to spare, but with a well-organized itinerary and knowledgeable guides, it’s still possible to fully experience Italy’s history, culture and food.
Most first-timers to Italy will surely include Italy’s greatest hits: Rome, Florence and Venice, but a Grand Tour doesn’t stop there. Between those cultural powerhouse cities, there is the idyllic countryside of Tuscany, the medieval villages of Umbria and the romantic towns of Veneto, for example.
Of course if you take part of our Grand Tour of Italy we’ll take care of all the details for you, but first-time visitors can read our guide with everything you can expect while touring through Italy.
The Grand Tour of Italy Destinations
Where to go and what to see on your first-ever grand tour trip to Italy.
The tradition of a Grand Tour in Italy always calls for a stop in Rome! Image by Alexander Naumann from Pixabay
The best trips to Italy have the perfect mix of culture and relaxation, culinary experiences and outdoor activities, and they all have a full immersion into the beauty of the Bel Paese!
Ciao Andiamo has launched itsGrand Tour of Italy with the best of what Italy offers, from the big hits to the smaller town charm of Padua, Orvieto, Assisi and Verona.
The Top 3 Destinations for First-Time Visitors to Italy
Along with the Colosseum in Rome and the canals of Venice, The Duomo of Florence is a must-see for a first time visitor to Italy! Image by Andrea Spallanzani from Pixabay
The capital of Italy, the birthplace of the Renaissance, and the most famous city on water in the world. There’s a reason that Rome,Florence, and Venice are must-see destinations, and they should be for first-time visitors to Italy as well! These big hitters are filled with 2,000 years of history and culture to explore and experience.
The Tuscan countryside is filled with gems to explore, like beautiful Siena. Image by BÙI VĂN HỒNG PHÚC from Pixabay
There’s plenty to see between Florence and Siena, but a trip to Tuscany is hardly complete without a vineyard tour!
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage city center of Siena. Home of the infamous Palio race, the massive Torre di Mangia with spectacular views over the Tuscan countryside and the beautiful Duomo complex, tiny Siena packs a big punch.
After, get into the Tuscan countryside to taste your way through the super Tuscans at ground zero. The long history of winemaking and beautiful rolling hillsides of Chianti and the valleys surrounding Siena are the perfect location to learn about the history of Tuscany’s wine culture and taste some local snacks!
What to See in Umbria
The Cathedral of Orvieto is a masterpiece that merits a visit on a tour of Italy. Image by Peter H from Pixabay
Filled with unique, medieval towns to explore, the scenery, food and lifestyle combine to make the perfect vacation atmosphere. Here’s what to see while you’re there:
Visit Orvieto. The entire town is built atop a volcanic tuff cliff, with the 14th-century cathedral towering above while the wine cellars and infamous double-helix well of St. Patrick are dug into the soft rock below.
Travel to Perugia, Umbria’s largest city and the capital of the region. Home to the oldest university in the region, Perugia’s small city center packs a big personality.
Deep dive into Italy’s religious roots in Assisi, birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi and home to the massive two-level basilica dedicated to the patron saint. One of the best-preserved medieval cities in Italy,the entire city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Between these towns and even smaller hamlets, like beautiful Spello, there’s a wealth of charm to explore in verdant Umbria.
First-timers to Italy should include Verona to their itinerary to add even more romance to their Grand Tour of Italy itinerary
Moving north, visit the romance and long-lost power of Verona. The setting of Romeo and Juliet, travelers can still visit Juliet’s balcony and take a picture with her much-frequented statue, but that’s not all Verona has to offer. Admire the impressive frescoes of the houses in Piazza delle Erbe and the 1st-century Arena, a predecessor to Rome’s Colosseum that is still used for operas and concerts today. Read on to learn about how tosee an opera in the Verona Arena.
Traveling from Verona to Venice, stop in small Padua, a university town and home to the Scrovegni Chapel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its 14th-century frescoes by Giotto, in particular the Last Judgement and its vibrant blue sky.
How to Travel in Italy
When in Rome, do as the Romans do! Here are the top tips you need to know if you want to travel in Italy with ease.
Order Coffee like an Italian
No matter where you go in Italy, authentic Italian coffee is just around the corner. A glimpse into Italy’s culture and identity, Caffè Italiano revolves solely around espresso and the different ways it can be served.
Though a first-time visitor rarely feels like a local, there are some ways that a visitor can look and act more like a local. After all, when in Rome….
From eating to language to tipping, here are some pro tips to help you feel right at home whentraveling in Italy.
What to Pack for Your First Time to Italy
Italians have a reputation for good style. And though it might feel intimidating, with a bit of attention, anyone can make a bella figura when traveling in Italy.
Packing for Italy means a simple but elegant style. We suggest you use light fabrics for the summer, dress in layers for the shoulder seasons and bring smart, but polished footwear. And when in doubt, a comfortable sundress, linen pants and sunglasses will get you far.
Summer in the Mediterranean is hot! Pack accordingly to feel cool, calm and collected on your Italy tour. Image by LUM3N from Pixabay
Relax knowing every detail of travel is taken care of while you experience the best of what Italy has to offer on Ciao Andiamo’s Grand Tour of Italy. Click here to book!
Traveling is good for your health. It can take you away from the stressors of everyday life, give your brain a chance to reset and even improve brain health thanks to stimulating new experiences. Travel can boost your mood and give you much needed social time. Unfortunately, it can also mean long travel days, jet lag that snags sleep and a slip in our usual healthy diet.
Want to gain the benefits of travel without sacrificing your health? You can still do it!
Here’s how to stay healthy while traveling:
Wash your hands
Click on the picture to see the rest of the steps recommended by the World Health Organization
The simplest and most effective way to stay healthy while at home or abroad is to wash your hands often and thoroughly. Our biggest problem seems to be the latter; Most people don’t adequately wash their hands, according to the World Health Organization. Be sure to use clean, running water, plenty of soap, and wash for at least 20 seconds on the palm, back, and between the fingers of each hand. After, air dry or dry with a clean towel. While traveling, be sure to always wash your hands before eating, and if that’s not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol. Be sure to rub sanitizer on the palm, back, and between the fingers of each hand.
Try to keep your normal sleep schedule
Traveling can be physically demanding. You upset your routine by carrying luggage, walking all day, and maybe even crossing time zones – it can be harsh on your body! One of the most important things you can do while traveling is to make sure you get plenty of sleep. If you don’t normally go to sleep in the wee hours of the night, don’t do it while traveling either. With early morning wake-up times, odd hours, and jet lag, it can be hard, but there are some workarounds. Fight jet lag with a brisk walk in the sun – daylight is one of the best ways to reset your body clock – and if that fails, simply listen to your body. Perhaps the time change means you just need that post-lunch siesta. That’s part of vacation too!
Move your body
Working out while traveling is an excellent way to stay in shape, stick to your routine, and combat jet lag. It’s also far more difficult to plan and motivate. Though many hotels throughout the world have gyms and there are plenty of exercises and online workout videos you can follow in your room, it’s hard to justify time out of a busy travel day to work out. If you’re able to do it – good for you! If not, consider that in most destinations in the world, like Italy, you’ll be exploring all day. This means walking the streets, strolling in parks, and standing for hours while touring museums and churches and theaters. One good thing about exploring a new city is that you’re sure to keep moving! You can also schedule exercise into your trip with a hike, walking tour, or bike tour to get moving while sightseeing.
Indulge – but only once a day
Most people want to indulge and experience the local food while traveling – it is vacation after all! You can absolutely, have fun and enjoy some of the local fare, but you can avoid indigestion, constipation, diarrhea and other stomach issues by sticking as closely as possible to your regular diet.
Try getting healthy snacks at a local market or grocery store to keep hunger and temptation at bay, and then consider indulging in that big plate of pasta or that three-scoop gelato just once a day, rather than at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. “One treat a day feels special and pleasurable,” says registered dietician Keri Glassman, “overdoing it, on the other hand, isn’t as enjoyable and leads to low energy and poor sleep.”
As always, if you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, be sure to prepare beforehand. Study up on your destination’s local foods and consider getting a translated card explaining any allergies if you’re worried about language issues.
Hydrate, enjoy wine, and skip the hard stuff
A changed routine and constant motion can make it difficult to drink enough water, but keeping hydrated will help combat dehydration, hunger, stomach issues, and even jet lag.
For this reason, make sure to drink lots of water, and consider limiting your alcohol consumption to reduce dehydration and travel fatigue. While in Italy you are sure to want to try some of the many wonderful local wines the country has to offer, so consider sticking to wine and beer and skipping hard liquor. A glass of wine is an essential part of the local culture and a popular and fun activity for visitors, so enjoy that vineyard tour and wine tasting, but make sure to stay hydrated as well!
Check stress at the door
Vacation or travel is a great time to slow down. Stop to appreciate your surroundings, try spending some time away from technology, and look to connect back with your analog nature. Read the local newspaper or a book, and focus on your travel partners and the new experiences you’re enjoying. Leave the stress of work at home.
That said, we know that a lot of the stress of travel comes from the travel itself. Prepare yourself ahead of time for a seamless trip, try to let go of the travel hiccups you can’t control, and find what you need in order to travel without stress. Or, go for a completely stress-free trip by hiring a travel company and letting them take care of everything for you! At Ciao Andiamo, we love crafting Italy adventures through local eyes, and we can arrange hotels, excursions, and transfers, personalized for you. Contact us to see how we can make your dream trip to Italy come to life!
Bring a smart first-aid kit
Much of the basic medicine available throughout the world is the same, but why not cut the stress and bring your own basic first aid kit for any minor aches or illnesses? A first-aid kit can have all the usual – bandages, sunscreen, an antibiotic ointment such as Neosporin, a thermometer and cold relief medication – as well as medicines for harsher eventualities, including diarrhea, constipation or motion sickness. Like we said, all of these are things that you can find in nearly any pharmacy in the world, but it’s so much more convenient to have them on hand right when you need it. Check out the CDC’s Pack Smart Checklist to help you prepare the best medicine travel kit for your trip.
Consider travel insurance
Finally, cover yourself against any possibilities or eventualities with good travel insurance. Most travel insurance should include emergency medical assistance, medicines and hospital costs, surgery and dental treatments, and urgent medical treatment for accidents, but make sure to choose one that also has emergency evacuation, legal coverage, and repatriation in case of serious illness or accident. The odds that you’ll have an accident or fall severely ill on a trip are low, but why not buy some peace of mind for your next trip with good medical coverage abroad? Details matter, so pay close attention to the specific policies if you choose to book!
Carnevale in Italy: What it Is and Where to Celebrate
Gina Mussio
Carnevale in Italy brings a burst of color to the dark, cold months of winter.
A huge final celebration to eat, drink and be merry before the restrictions and solemnity of Lent, the festivities in Italy aren’t reserved just to Mardi Gras.
Starting about a month before Ash Wednesday, revelers in Italy celebrate for multiple weekends with sweeping parades, elaborate masks and plenty of brightly colored confetti. You can find traditional Carnival sweets in the bakeries and plenty of tricks and mischief. After all, a Carnevale, ogni scherzo vale! That is, anything goes during Carnival.
If the celebrations seem a little over-the-top, consider that the roots of this festival can be traced to Ancient Greece and Rome in celebrations that honored the god Bacchus (of wine) and Saturn. Some say they go even further back to primitive celebrations of the end of winter and beginning of spring.
Though its history is pagan, the festival was so widely celebrated and the tradition so strong that it was quickly adapted to fit into the Catholic rituals. During the 40 days of Lent, parties were forbidden and meat, sugar and fats were off-limits. Carnival fit in perfectly as a last hurrah and a way to finish all the stores of rich food and drink before Lent.
After weeks of mischief and parties, expect a more pious and solemn atmosphere in Italy during the weeks of Lent. Easter in Italy is as strongly felt and celebrated as Christmas.
Officially, Carnevale is held on Fat Tuesday – in 2026 that is on February 17 – but of course the weekend before sees celebrations just as big or even bigger!
Where to Celebrate Carnevale in Italy
Though everyone knows of the masks and parades of Venice, every town in Italy, even the smallest, has its own Carnevale parade. Small towns will have day care centers and school children march in the street or ride atop team-made floats and school bands play. Bigger cities will bring together floats, bands, dance troupes and group costumes for the parades.
There are some cities, however, that regularly outdo themselves. Here are some of the biggest, most famous Carnival celebrations in all of Italy:
Full of mystery, mischief and intrigue, the Carnival of Venice is undoubtedly one of the most famous Carnival celebrations in the entire world.
Though the start of Venice’s Carnival is disputed, most attribute it to 1296, with an official document from the Senate of Venice declaring a public celebration on the day before Lent. Created as an allowance for citizens for some fun and revelry, the mask fit in perfectly, allowing citizens to celebrate independently of social class or religion.
Carnival masks remained a fixture through the Renaissance, and masked comedy troupes would perform in the piazzas of Venice in the 16th century. These same masks and bacchanalia were banned by the Austrians in the 18th century and again by Mussolini in the 1930s.
After many years, the holiday returned in 1979 in a celebration of the history and culture of Venice.
The 2026 Venice Carnival will take place from January 31 to February 17. Visitors can view events like the water parade, mask competitions or the infamous flight of the angel, or simply stroll the UNESCO World Heritage city and to see the elaborate and unique costumes.
Today roughly 3 million people travel to Venice to participate in the infamous festa Veneziana, making it the most important event of the city and the biggest carnival celebration in Italy.
Viareggio, Tuscany
Another one of the most important Carnival celebrations in Italy is in Viareggio, on the coast of Tuscany. Started in the late 1800s by the rich bourgeois class who wanted to freely express their discontent of the high taxes, today the attitude continues with massive papier mâché floats satirizing big political and cultural names.
The celebration is most known for these elaborate and impressive floats, made with extraordinary detail and engineering. The tradition is so important, that float-makers begin their work an entire year before Carnival!
Besides the allegorical floats, the entire Carnival of Viareggio is followed by all night musical dances in the streets. This tradition started in the 1920s as “colored all-night dances” or veglionicolorati, where women dressed in specific colors and even the jewelry, confetti and decorations had to match. That plus the city’s Art Deco architecture make for the perfect scenography.
The Carnevale di Viareggio takes place on Fat Tuesday, as well as the four Sundays preceding it. The final parade is followed by a huge fireworks show. Though admission is charged to view the parade, there are festivals, cultural events, concerts and masked balls for free throughout the season.
Acireale, Sicily
Photo by Carnaval.com Studios (flickr)
Repeatedly described as one of Italy’s most beautiful Carnivals, this is likely thanks to the intricate floats decorated with fresh flowers, adding beauty and perfume to the streets of Acireale.
Allegorical papier mâché floats parade down the Baroque streets of Acireale during the Carnival season, but the surprise is in the flower floats. Dating back to the 16th-century, revelers once celebrated Carnival in Acireale by throwing rotten eggs and lemons, but when those games were officially banned, they were replaced by a much more cultured character: Folk poets, known as abbatazzi, who improvised verses on the streets of the city.
Today, both the floats and poets can still be found and the Carnival of Acireale is widely entitled the “best Carnival in Sicily.” It is so popular, in fact, that the entire thing is reproduced in the balmy summer air of August.
Ivrea, Piedmont
The Carnival of Ivrea is likely the most unique Carnival celebration in Italy. Every year Ivrea, a tiny city near Turin in Piedmont, hosts its famous Battaglia delle Arancie (Battle of the Oranges) in the final days of the Carnival season.
The battle symbolizes an event in 1194 when the people of Ivrea rebelled against the Royal Napoleonic Troops. It is said that the miller’s daughter, “la Mugnaia,” slayed the hated tyrant who ruled the city after he tried to take her, kicking off a rebellion that ultimately won the townsfolk a bit more freedom.
Today, la Mugnaia is always represented by a local beauty, and the event is remembered with an enormous orange battle between helmeted “soldiers” in carriages and unprotected “townspeople” representing different districts on the ground. Those that don’t want to participate wear the traditional berrettorosso, red hats, to be excluded from the battle and can stay protected behind massive nets.
Putignano, Puglia
The region of Puglia in Italy’s heel likely has the most Carnival celebrations of any region, but the most famous is in Putignano.
Located in the beautiful Itria Valley, home of trulli houses and interesting karst caves, the ancient town of Putignano is home to the longest Carnival celebration in all of Italy. Every year it starts on Santo Stefano, December 26th, with the Festa dellePropaggini, in whichpoets recite in local dialect, and ends on Fat Tuesday with a parade and the “funeral” of Carnival, represented as a pig.
Not only is it the longest Carnival celebration, but it is one of the oldest in all of Europe. Putignano’s Carnival dates as far back as 1394, when relics of St. Stephens were transferred inland to Putignano for protection against invaders. The move was so celebrated that peasants left the vineyards to follow the procession, exploding into song and dance upon arrival, as well as improvised lyrics and poems, satirizing against politicians and news, habits and current events in the local dialect.
After December 26, this long Carnival is celebrated every Thursday, but it’s not until the feast day of St. Anthony the Abate, January 17, that Carnival really takes off with parties, feasts, pageants, and parades. From then until Fat Tuesday, every day is Carnival!
It’s not confetti or tinsel or ribbons thrown about during Fano’s Carnival, but sweets. With the “getto” or throw, the masked floats toss hundreds of pounds of sweets, candies and chocolates to the crowds below. (The crowds come prepared with paper cones to catch the goodies!)
Said to have started in 1347 during a rare moment of peace between two rival families of the time, the Carnival of Fano is known as the sweetest Carnival of Italy.
The floats parade up and down the streets of Fano, ending in a final round with a “luminaria” with lights, fire and color added as night falls. Finally, a massive papier mâché puppet known as “Pupo” or “Vulon” is burnt in the main square to large crowds on the day of Mardi Gras, a practice that is said to take away winter together with the sins of the townspeople.
Cento, Emilia Romagna
The Carnival of Cento is known as far back as 1615, thanks to frescoes by hometown painter Gian Francesco “Guercino” Barbieri that document the celebration, but its most celebrated traditions are more recent.
In the early 1900s the people created their own king to symbolize the city’s Carnival, a character to represent his fellow citizens, called Tasi.
During the final parade, Tasi is burned in a bonfire in front of the Rocca while an impressive fireworks show lights up the sky in a scenographic display. Before he is burned, his will is read in the local dialect and his possessions are given to Cento’s most famous citizens – actual citizens of Cento!
In 1993, the Cento Carnival was twinned with the Carnival of Rio de Janeiro and began displaying allegorical floats inspired by the exhibitions of Rio. Running for five Sundays prior to Lent, the parades circle the city multiple times and throw inflatable and soft objects into the crowd.
Technically, the Carnival celebrations in Milan aren’t much different than any of the others. There are parades and parties, confetti and costumes. The difference here is all in the timing.
Milan’s carnival is the last to be celebrated. The Ambrosian Carnival, named after Milan’s patron saint, holds its final party after the Italian Carnival has officially ended.
As tradition has it, the city’s patron saint, Sant’Ambrogio (St. Ambrose) was on a religious pilgrimage and asked to postpone the final Carnival celebrations until he got back. So every year, Milan’s carnival is celebrated four days later on the Saturday after Fat Tuesday, ending the Carnival season in the beautiful Piazza del Duomo.
The Best Destinations to Celebrate the Holidays in Italy
Gina Mussio
The holiday season is a wonderful time to see Italy. Though winter is technically the low season, December sees a peak of visitors and festivities with a wealth of special events and seasonal sights.
No matter where you are in the Bel Paese, you’re sure to feel the festive atmosphere. Italian cities big and small decorate their centers with lights, garland and trees, and shops deck out their windows for the holidays. All of Italy is beautiful in December, but here’s where to go for that something specific.
Italy is a predominately Roman Catholic country and the holiday season reflects that. Even if you’re not religious, seeing or participating in a mass is a chance to get to know the local culture and Italians Christmastime traditions. Each year on December 24th there is midnight mass held by the Pope in Saint Peter’s Basilica. (It’s often held before midnight, so check online). For those with only a passing interest or simply without a seat, join the crowd in St. Peter’s Piazza to follow the mass on a big-screen TV. Come back at noon on Christmas Day for the Pope’s Christmas message which he gives from his apartment overlooking the square. The square itself is decorated with a massive Christmas tree and a life-size nativity scene.
Bolzano for the over-the-top Christmas markets
All of Trentino Alto-Adige is known for its beautiful Christmas market coming from its long Austrian heritage, but known as is large or over-the-top as Bolzano’s. Going strong for nearly 30 years, the Bolzano Christmas Market strictly sells only locally produced options. Here you can find the region’s handiwork at play with wooden statuettes, decorations and nativities, as well as musical instruments, decorative candles, slippers, hats, stationary and more.
Besides the commercial aspect of the market with many handcrafted gifts and artwork, visitors can see the artisans at work in the craft tent, enjoy local dishes like strudel and mulled wine and enjoy horse-drawn carriage wines, a merry-go-round or puppet theatre for the little ones.
Naples for artisanal Nativity masterpieces
Nowhere in Italy is more famous for its handcrafted Nativity scenes than Naples, and ground zero for this work is via San Gregorio Armeno. A long pedestrian street in the historic center, there are hundreds of shops featuring handmade presepi, but each shop will likely have a slightly different style, color, cut or characters. Not only can you find the classic Jesus, Mary and Joseph figurines, but you can expand on your Nativity to create a veritable city with shepherds, blacksmiths and vendors of all kinds, as well as more modern ideas like pizza-makers, politicians and soccer players.
If the crowds get to be too much on “Christmas Alley” (as San Gregorio Armeno is often called) head to the Museo Nazionale di San Martino in Naples to see the largest Nativity scene in the world, with more than 500 different people, animal, angel and object figurines.
Matera for the living Nativity scene
Known as the presepiviventi, a living nativity scene is when costumed people act out some or all of the Christmas story, usually on Christmas Day, St. Stephen’s on December 26 and the Epiphany on January 6 (when the Three Wise Men brought their gifts to Jesus). There are dozens of living Nativity scenes throughout Italy. In Chia, Lazio there are more than 500 actors. Barga in Tuscany includes at least a hundred costumed people walking through the town behind Mary and Joseph asking for lodging and of course Greccio, Lazio is said to be the home of the very first Nativity scene when Saint Francis of Assisi constructed one in a cave there in 1223.
Still, only one has the nearly surreal backdrop of the sassi di Matera. Houses, churches and monasteries were carved and created in caverns of Matera’s rocks. A completely unique destination no matter the time of year, the landscape is even more evocative with these biblical reenactments.
Turin for the heart-warming coffeehouses
A decadent Bicerin is just what you need to warm up after sightseeing in December. Photo by Jeremy Hunsinger on Wikicommons
Turin is known for its chocolate, and what better time of year to indulge in this local treat than the holiday season? You can try the Gianduia chocolate or a creamy hot chocolate, but to experience the coffeehouse culture at its most decadent, order a Bicerin. A traditional drink from Piedmont, it’s a mix of chocolate, coffee and cream that will for sure warm you up on a cold winter day.
Orvieto for the week-long Jazz Festival
Umbria’s winter edition is held each December in the suggestive town of Orvieto for five days. That’s five days of music starting from noon and running late into the night at different times and different venues. From the Emilio Greco Museum to the Sala Etrusca in the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo filled with pianists, food, wine and jazz in the Palazzo dei Sette or the by now annual send off with the Funk Off band in the streets where the city itself is the true location.
Rome for massive Hanukkah celebrations
Though the city is home to the seat of the Roman Catholic religion, Rome, and all of Italy, has a large Jewish population and a long Jewish history. A huge, twenty-foot menorah is set up in Piazza Barberini, with crowds to match the size every night for the lighting ceremony. A smaller menorah can be found in Piazza Bologna for those wanting to escape the crowds. Mid-December you can join a lively Hanukkah street party on Via del Portico d’Ottavia, in Rome’s Jewish quarter with dancing, processions and, of course, food and wine. And instead of a jelly doughnut, go for the Roman version: the Fritelle de Chanuka. Sweet dough fritters mixed with raisins and anise seeds, fried in oil and topped with hot honey, they’re delicious, local and the perfect way to celebrate Hanukkah in Rome!
Milan for the Christmas shopping and panettone
The beautiful ‘Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II’ in the centre of Milan all lit up for the holidays. Photo by Ralf Steinberger on Flickr
Milan and shopping go hand-in-hand and that doesn’t change for Christmas shopping. Beyond the lights and enormous Christmas tree in front of the Duomo, shops big and small go all out on their window displays. Worth it even just to window shop, it also makes last-minute gift buying a breeze. When in doubt, go for the city’s hometown Christmas dessert and buy an artisanal panettone. A sweet bread with candied fruits and raisins, panettone has its origins in Milan, but is now a staple throughout Italy during the holidays.
Agnone for a river of fireparade
Every year in the small region of Molise, the town of Agnone gives a nod to its roots in their Christmas fire festival, called the Ndocciata. On Christmas Eve locals in traditional dress carry large, fan-shapped wooden torches through the town, creating a river of fire and light to vigil the coming of Christmas. The parade ends in a huge central bonfire. Recently, the town has held a symbolic festival another weekend before Christmas Eve to allow even visitors to participate.
Bologna for a unique New Year’s Eve tradition
Bologna celebrates New Year’s Eve with the Fiera del Bue Grasso, or the fat ox fair. The ox is decorated with flowers and ribbons and is the prize for a lottery held to see who will win the ox! People join the procession with candles and fireworks until it ends just before midnight in Piazza Maggiore. There, all of Bologna rings in the new year and symbolically “burns” the old year at midnight by throwing a special dummy known as the Vecchione into a large public bonfire. Designed by a different artist each year, the dummy is worth a look before his destruction and the Piazza has live music, performances and a street market as well.
Venice for a mass New Year’s Eve kiss
There are few places as romantic as Venice. The atmosphere is charged with beauty and love and on New Year’s Eve it’s even more electric with music, fireworks and a plethora of sparkling wine toasts. See the traditional concert in Teatro la Fenice, but hustle to Piazza San Marco before midnight for the classic “mass kiss” when the bells ring in the New Year.
Otranto to see the first dawn of the year in Italy
The white city in Puglia, Italy’s heel of the boot, celebrates the New Year with the “Alba dei Popoli” festival, or Dawn of the People, a local party that ends at dawn. That’s because the Punta Palascia lighthouse in Otranto is Italy’s easternmost spot, separating the Ionian Sea from the Adriatic, and the first opportunity to see the dawn of the new year in Italy.
Florence for traditional Epiphany celebrations
The Epiphany on January 6th is the day the three wise men finally reached baby Jesus. In Italy it’s traditionally celebrated by an ugly but friendly “witch” known as La Befana who comes during the night to fill children’s shoes or stockings with candy, toys and sweets. In fact, most people in Italy refer to the Epiphany as “la Befana” and celebrations throughout Italy feature her. In Florence, however, the holiday’s holier roots are still visible every year with a historical procession through the heart of the city. Known as the Calvalcade of the Magi, participants dress in traditional costume to represent the journey of the Magi to Jesus. The parade starts from Palazzo Pitti, crosses the Arno River and ends at the Duomo, with a stop in Piazza della Signoria for a flag throwing performance!
The Christmas Star leaping from the ancient Verona Arena. Photo by Gianni Crestani from Pixabay
Italians have a saying, “l’Epifania tutte le feste porta via,” meaning with the Epiphany the holidays are over. The holiday season is long in Italy – trees are up well past New Years – but come January 6th it’s time to take down the tree, pack up the decorations and put a close to the festivities. That is, until Carnival season!
Want to celebrate the holidays in Italy? Give yourself the perfect gift with a tailored trip just for you! Contact us today for help designing your dream journey for a no-stress, hassle-free holiday in beautiful Italy.
Most visitors to Italy only think of the Mediterranean summers, but December is a great time to visit the peninsula. Tour Italy’s greatest cities under the twinkling lights of Christmas. It’s the most festive time of the year and the atmosphere and spirit of celebration are addictive!
The holiday season in Italy starts with the Immaculate Conception on December 8th, when cities’ Christmas lights are turned on and Italians officially bring out the Christmas decorations and set up their tree or Nativity scene. Though it’s slightly later than most American’s day-after-Thanksgiving approach, in Italy the holiday season doesn’t end until the Epiphany on January 6th.
A predominately Catholic country, most of the season’s big-hitting holiday dates are from Christmas Eve on December 24th to the Epiphany on January 6th – the original 12 days of Christmas!
Though winter is the low season for travel to Italy, Christmastime does see a spike in visitors, as other Europeans have time off and tourists from all over plan their trip to take in the beautiful sights and smells of the holiday season in Italy. Coming to Italy in December? We’ve got everything you need to know about the holiday season in Italy:
Italian Holiday Traditions
Italians are champions of tradition and there’s no better time to see that than the holidays, when each symbol, event and meal are reminders of the magic of the season. No matter where you’re coming from, there are a few things you can expect to see during the holiday season in Italy:
Christmas markets
A good Christmas market is a feast for the senses, with delicious smells, warm desserts and drinks, handcrafted wares and atmospheric lights. Photo from Pixabay
Though this tradition is mostly attributed to Germany and Austria, Italians love their Christmas markets as much as their northern neighbors. In December, you can find Christmas markets in most cities throughout Italy. Visit Italy’s largest Christmas market in Bolzano, a city in the border region of South Tyrol. In Florence the historical Santa Croce Piazza fills with a market hailing directly from Germany for the entire month of December or head to Piazza Navona in Rome. Some, like those listed above, last all month, others like those in Genoa, Bologna or Syracuse, Sicily last for a week or two or at a specific time period, like Milan’s O Bej O Bej. The market, that gets it’s name from the local dialect for “how beautiful, how beautiful,” usually runs for one weekend around the time of Milan’s patron saint festival on December 7th.
Christmas lights and Christmas trees
Few people in Italy decorate their house or garden with Christmas lights, but each and every town center will be positively lit up with lights and sparkling decorations. Some favorites are Ferrara, Turin, Milan and Rome. Beyond that, you can expect big cities to have a massive pine tree decorated for the season, usually located in front of the Duomo. There’s one in Florence, Milan, Naples and Venice, but perhaps the most impressive is Rome, which has not one, but several Christmas trees throughout the city. You can usually find a tree near the Colosseum, in Piazza Venezia, on Capitoline Hill and, of course, in St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican City.
Traditional meals
Fish is the traditional meal served on Christmas Eve, as Italians avoid meat and large meals in fasting and preparation for Christmas Day. After dinner many families attend their local midnight Mass. On Christmas Day, families feast the entire day, with a large lunch that usually has multiple courses and dozens of servings. Though every family is different, some regions have specific food traditions for Christmas Day, such as homemade cappelletti in broth in central Italian regions or panettone for dessert in the north.
Regional celebrations
As always in Italy, you can expect different traditions from different regions. Italy is a nation of city-states and though it’s one country, each area is fiercely proud of its own traditions and culture. Some dates, like December 8th, are national holidays, but there are other important holiday dates for individual regions. For example, Abruzzo celebrates St. Nicholas on December 6th, the generous saint’s feast day, with the nonni dressing up as St. Nicholas and giving gifts to children. The Milanese celebrate their patron saint, St. Ambrose, in style on December 7th, and those from Bergamo (as well as other towns) exchange gifts on December 13th, St. Lucy’s Day, rather than Christmas day.
St. Lucy, or Santa Lucia, is also celebrated in Syracuse, Sicily, where where she’s celebrated with a huge parade that ends in a firework display over the harbor in one of the biggest celebrations of the year. Research in advance your Italian destinations to see the extra events and celebrations they may have in December.
Caroling or … bagpipes!
Though caroling isn’t such a common practice anymore, in Lazio, Abruzzo, Sicily and other areas of southern Italy you may still see bagpipe players, called zampognari, playing carols the week of Christmas. Originally a practice of shepherds who would play their Christmas hymns as they returned home from their outposts in the mountains, today it’s continued by locals who want to keep the culture alive.
Nativity scenes
Living nativity scenes with local participants are popular throughout Italy. Photo by Michelle Scott from Pixabay
Nativity Scenes, or presepe, are super popular in Italy. They can be found throughout town and in nearly every Italian home. Some families don’t even put up a tree in lieu of a nativity! These can be super small or enormous, elaborate affairs with collections growing by the generation. You can find the oldest Nativity in the museum of Santa Maria Maggiore Church in Rome, but the place to find hand-crafted Nativities is in Naples. Here the artisan craft is still going strong and you can shop, window shop or simply admire the skilled craftsmen at work on via San Gregorio Armeno. Sometimes called Christmas Alley, this long street in the historic city center has nativity scenes on sale year-round!
Besides these small works of art, another popular tradition in Italy is the “living nativity” with actors and sometimes entire villages as the set. Known as presepi viventi, often the locations are just as suggestive as the scene itself. Custonaci in the Trapani region of Sicily holds its living nativity in a cave, Mantova in Lombardy has around 150 people featured, and the rocks, stones and caves of Matera make for the perfect setting for a reenacted Bethlehem.
Good luck and good fortune for the New Year
New Year’s Eve has fewer specific rituals than Christmas. Italians can celebrate at home, at a restaurant (with reservations well in advanced) or in the piazza where some Italian cities organize concerts and events. Throughout the country, New Year’s Eve is often celebrated in Italy with fireworks, especially in Naples where public and private fireworks can be set off long into the night. Italians eat lentils for dinner for good luck in the coming year, usually paired with a large sausage that requires hours of slow cooking called a cotechino. The tradition doesn’t stop there – be sure to pack a pair of red underwear if you’re coming for New Year’s, it’s considered good luck as well!
La Befana, the country’s happy witch
A representation of the Befana, Italy’s Epiphany tradition. Photo by sara150578 from Pixabay
January 6th is another important holiday for the Italian Christmas season. Known as the Epiphany, this is celebrated as the day the three wise men finally reached baby Jesus. In Italy it’s celebrated by an ugly but friendly “witch” known as La Befana who comes during the night to fill children’s shoes or stockings with candy, toys and sweets, similar to a Christmas stocking in America. Remember: l’Epifania tutte le feste porta via, or with the Epiphany, the holiday season is officially over.
Menorah lightings for Hanukkah
It’s no secret that Italy is predominately Catholic, but Italy has a large Jewish population as well. This year Hanukkah starts on December 22 and ends on December 30. The highlight of the Hanukkah celebrations is in Piazza Barberini in Rome’s Jewish quarter where an enormous 20-foot-tall menorah is kept and lit each night. The Jews came to Rome long before Jesus’ time and lived freely until about the Dark Ages, when they were forced into the ghetto for more than 300 years. Today, the Jewish ghetto, or Jewish quarter, is the location of lively events, parties and feasts to celebrate Hanukkah.
Other impressive menorahs can be found in Milan’s Piazza San Carlo, in Florence’s Tempio Maggiore Synagogue, one of the most atmospheric in all of Italy, as well as in Venice where there are not one but five still-active synagogues. Venice’s Ghetto Square includes a Jewish Cemetery and Jewish Museum. Head to the square to see the menorah lighting and the music, dancing and food that follows.
What to Know
The holiday season in Italy is filled with wonderful celebrations and festivities that are well worth seeing. It also, however, is filled with closures for national holidays or reduced opening hours for winter.
Be sure you plan your visits to museums and sites in advance to avoid going when they are closed. If you happen to be there on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day or St. Stephen’s Day on December 26th, expect most everything to be closed. You’ll definitely want to book restaurants in advance for these days, as well as on New Year’s Eve.
Winter in Italy in general means attractions and transportation schedules change, usually with fewer hours or fewer trains running. Winter is Italy’s low season, but Christmastime usually sees a spike in visitors and crowds and prices may reflect that.
Remember also that just how cold it is depends a lot on where in Italy you are visiting. Up north in the Alps you might be skiing, while down in Sicily you’ll be strolling along the sea with a warming sun.
In general you should still bring a heavy coat, hat, gloves and warm, comfortable boots that can take you from day to night. Italian winters are humid, giving the air a chill even when the temperatures aren’t all that low and in northern Italy you might find rain or snow. Find out more on what to pack for winter here.
Though cold in winter, many of the attractions that you’ll want to see are indoors, making winter just as nice a time as others. Not only that, but the decorations, warm food and festivals make touring around a pleasure, even if it’s cold.
Wine in Italy is as ubiquitous as pizza, pasta or gelato – it’s a staple!
Italians are proud of their wine and take it seriously, but they are far from pretentious. Wine in Italy isn’t for just the fancy, elegant or rich. It’s an everyman’s drink, good for any food you’re eating and found everywhere. Once upon a time a dash of marsala or other wine over a raw egg made for an abundant, caloric breakfast and even today many Italians wouldn’t think twice about a glass or two at a work lunch and it’s not uncommon to see Italians enjoying a mid-morning glass at their local bar.
In Italy the wine is mostly, well, Italian. Italians prefer to drink their local wine and many restaurants don’t even offer options from outside of Italy. After all, they have plenty to choose from!
Italy has an exceptionally high quality of wine, more than 400 grape varietals and produces more wine than any other country. That, together with its super open attitude to wine drinking makes Italy the perfect place to dive into the wine culture and try something new! Italians are proud of the history, quality and taste of their wine so if you’re planning on imbibing when in Italy it helps to know a thing or two before you go:
Drinking Wine in Italy
Whether its wine or beer or cocktails, Italians never drink without food. Even if it’s just a bowl of olives or a slice of cheese, you’ll never be served a drink without something to munch on.
When you order a bottle of wine from a restaurant in Italy the process should be nearly the same as back home. The server will bring the bottle to the table unopened. He or she will open it in front of you and ask who wants to taste it (chi assaggia?) then pour a small amount in your glass to taste. This isn’t about deciding if you like the wine or not – you’ve already ordered it! – it’s simply a way to check that the wine hasn’t gone bad. Though it’s difficult if you don’t already have a background with wine, you know it’s gone bad if it tastes moldy or like cork or vinegar.
You can also order wine by the glass and, if you order the house wine, you can usually order a ¼ liter (a little bit more than a glass) or a ½ liter, as opposed to an entire bottle. And don’t scoff – the house wine isn’t bad! The vino della casa is usually a local wine that pairs well with the restaurant’s food and can be the perfect place to start to learn about Italian wine.
It’s customary in Italy to fill the glass halfway, rather than up to the brim. This way it’s easier to manage, gives everyone the chance to have a glass from the bottle and invites those that want more to drink up. Don’t expect servers to come and fill your glass up for you after you finish it (whether wine or water). In general, servers come only when called and are much more reserved than their American counterparts.
DOC vs DOCG and What to Order
Italy has various organizations and classifications to preserve and protect its food and agricultural products. Like Champagne in France, some wines are “protected”, allowing only those grown in a certain way from a certain grape in a certain region to be given the name of that wine.
The two classifications you should be aware of when wine tasting in Italy is DOCG and DOC.
DOCG is the highest designation of quality for Italian wines. DOCG stands for Denominazione di OrigineControllata e Garantitaor Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin. The strictest classification, DOCG wines have to be made in DOCG-protected zones and follow stringent rules.
The second classification is DOC (Denominazione di OrigineControllata or Denomination of Controlled Origin). These wines also have to be made in specific zones and have specific regulations to follow such as the production area, wine color, grape varieties, proportions and alcohol levels, as well as some questions of vinification and maturation techniques.
This classification was the first created in Italy. The DOCG wines were created roughly two decades later to further differentiate the top Italian wines from an already quality stock. All of the defined limits listed above are present, but with even more stringent minimum and maximums allowed, as well as an in-depth analysis and tasting from the Ministry of Agriculture.
The Brunello di Montalcino and the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, both from Tuscany, were the first wines to receive DOCG status in all of Italy followed closely by the Chianti from Tuscany and Piedmont’s Barolo and Barbaresco.
But these classifications aren’t the only measure of quality in Italian wines. The celebrated “Super Tuscans,” Tignanello, Sassacia, and Ornellaia wines, were originally thought of as table wines and had opted out of the DOC/DOCG process because they thought the stringent regulations hindered them from making the best wine possible. Since then, the classification IGT or Indicazione di GeograficaTipicahas been added, which is designated for wine grown in a particular area without specifying the blend, such as the Super Tuscans.
Not only that, but you can find delicious wines without any of these labels, proving that when in Italy, all wine is worth a try!
Ready to taste the best of Italian wines? We can help! Visit wineries in Lucca, Florence, San Gimignano, Chianti, Pienza and Siena on our Essential Tuscany trip.
Everything You Need to Know About Florence’s World-class Museums
Gina Mussio
The birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, Florence is home to some of the greatest art and architecture in the entire world. Florence’s rich art history can be found at every turn, from incredible piazze and palazzi to ancient sculptures and hidden frescoes. The city itself feels like a massive open-air museum. But don’t just see the city from outside – Florence houses more world-class museums than nearly any other Italian city.
From art to sculpture to archeology and even fashion, there’s a museum for everyone in Florence. The entire city seems to have been designed and built by the leading painters, sculptors and architects of the time. Visitors can see priceless works by Brunelleschi, Michelangelo, Botticelli, Caravaggio… the list goes on!
It’s impossible to see them all in one trip, but with a well-planned itinerary you can hit all your must-see sights. Learn the opening days and times, prices and the can’t-miss artworks of Florence’s top museums to best see the incredible art that Florence has to offer.
What to Know Before You Go
Double check closing days
When planning a trip to Italy it’s important to note that museums, restaurants and other sites have at least one closing day per week, and it might not be what you expect. Many museums in Florence, including the Accademia, the Uffizi and even Palazzo Pitti are closed on Mondays.
Unfortunately, it’s not so easy to keep track. Some museums do happen to be open on Mondays. For example the Duomo and Duomo Museum, Palazzo Vecchio and the Bargello, but only sometimes. It closes the first, third and fifth Mondays of the month.
With that in mind, check ahead for each of the sites you plan on visiting to avoid wasting time or being disappointed on your trip.
Book ahead
Though reservations aren’t required, book ahead for Florence’s most popular museums, namely the Uffizi Gallery and the Galleria Accademia, if you don’t want to waste an entire day in line – especially in the summer! April through October and nearly any weekend of the year sees long lines all day long, so your best bet is to make a reservation.
Other Florence sights, like the Bargello and the Pitti Palace, offer reservations but they’re not as necessary as the Duomo, Accademia or Uffizi.
You can book online directly at each museum’s website, via phone (English options available) or check if your hotel can make reservations for you.
Or if that all seems a bit too complicated, you could always visit Florence’s top museums with a private tour.
Consider a private tour
You can choose a tour that focuses on one museum, or a tour that hits the highlights of Florence, such as the impressive Palazzo Vecchio
There is a lot to see in Florence’s museums. So much so that it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the art and history there to take in. The Uffizi is one of the largest museums in the entire world and that’s just one of many impressive museums.
Private tours, even if just for a day, allow you to see the sights with a knowledgeable and expert guide. Not only that, but they help you to skip the line and maximize time. Everything’s taken care of for you!
Both our Uffizi Gallery Tour and our Florence Highlights Tour with David are led by experts in the subject and both grant skip-the-line access to the two most famous museums in Florence. After your visit to see the David statue, see the highlights of the city’s historical center, including the Duomo and Baptistery and then venture off-the-beaten-path to explore our favorite churches, piazzas, artisanal shops, coffee bars and markets throughout Florence. Ensuring that you have enough time to see it all on your trip to Florence!
A Closer Look at Florence’s Three Most Popular Museums:
Uffizi Gallery
The Uffizi Gallery holds the world’s most important collection of Renaissance art. The massive museum covers two floors and holds work by Raphael, Giotto, Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Caravaggio, to name a few. One of the most famous art museums in the world, it’s also one of the oldest. It was designed by Giorgio Vasari, architect and author, and has housed masterpieces since its construction began in 1560.
What to See
You could easily spend an entire day in the Uffizi Gallery, but for those without that kind of stamina or time, there are museum maps with set itineraries passing the most famous works. It’s nearly impossible to list all of the museums incredible pieces, but some favorites include The Birth of Venus and La Primavera by Sandro Botticelli; the Laocoön and his Sons by Baccio Bandinelli; The Annunciation by Andrea del Verrocchio and Leonardo da Vinci, one of his first works; The Medusa by Caravaggio; and Judith Beheading Holofernes by Artemisia Gentileschi, one of the Renaissance’s few known female artists.
Hours and Prices
Open: Tuesday – Sunday, 8:15 – 6:50 pm (ticket office closes at 6:05 pm) Closed: Mondays, January 1, December 25
Full price March 1 – October 31: €20 Full price November 1 – February 28: €12 Reservation cost: €4, online or by phone at +39 055 294883
Free entry on the first Sunday of each month, no reservations permitted.
Note: You can visit the National Archaeological Museum for free with the Uffizi ticket!
Galleria Dell’Accademia
The David in the Galleria dell’Accademia is one of the most captivating statues in the world. Sculpted in white marble by Michelangelo in the 16th century, it’s considered a masterpiece in proportion, beauty and art. And though you can find a copy outside of the Palazzo Vecchio, the original location for the David statue, it’s absolutely worth seeing in a building constructed solely to house this special masterpiece.
What to See
Beyond the David, the Accademia has other incredible works by Michelangelo, including the four Prisoners, four unfinished sculptures designed for the tomb of Pope Julius that today flank the hallway leading up to the magnificent statue of David. Visitors can also see paintings of Florentine artists from the 13th to 16th centuries, musical instruments from the private collections of the dukes and ruling families of Tuscany as well as sculptor Giambologna’s original full-size plaster model for the infamous Rape of the Sabine Women sculpture.
Hours and Prices
Open: Tuesday – Sunday, 8:15 – 6:50 pm (ticket office closes at 6:20) And, from June 4th – September 26th 2019, the Museum will stay open in the evening from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays Closed: Mondays, January 1, December 25
Full price: €8 (Ticket prices may change on occasion of temporary exhibitions.) Reservation cost: €4
Note: The Accademia doesn’t have a coatroom so entrance isn’t allowed to visitors with large bags or backpacks and water bottles over 0.5 l are not allowed.
Il Grande Museo del Duomo
Today, most of the works of art that once were housed inside the Duomo are now on display in the Duomo Museum, where they were placed after the Florence Flood of 1966 that filled churches nearly 6 feet deep.
Though most of the works of art were specifically designed to decorate the interior or exterior of the Duomo’s religious monuments, there are still enough to fill twenty-five rooms on three floors.
Along with the museum, The Great Duomo Museum ticket includes the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (the Duomo), Brunelleschi’s Dome, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistry of San Giovanni and the Crypt of Santa Reparata and is valid within 72 hours of the first visit.
The museum visit itself ends on a panoramic terrace with an incredible view of Brunelleschi’s infamous dome.
What to see
The Gates of Paradise, Ghiberti’s bronze panels made for the baptistery door; Michelangelo’s unfinished Pietà; a striking wooden sculpture of Mary Magdalene by Donatello, titled the Penitent Magdalene; and the silver altar of the baptistery.
Hours and Prices
Open: every day of the week, 8:30 am – 7:00 pm Closed: first Tuesday of each month
Full price: €18
Note: Reservations are mandatory for the climb on the Dome. The service is free.
One of northern Italy’s most beautiful historic cities, Verona is famous worldwide as the setting of Romeo and Juliet. Travelers have long come to enjoy the romance that permeates the city, but there’s so much more to experience in Verona.
Verona is beautiful in any light. Photo by Helge Thomas.
In fact, the entire city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its 2,000 year old architecture and urban structure that is still visible today.
Founded by the Romans in the 1st century BCE, Verona’s strategic location between Milan and Venice, sea, mountains and the Italian peninsula, helped it to grow rapidly in importance.
Today travelers from all over the world come to tour Verona’s cobbled streets and take in its architectural icons. But there’s one architectural icon that outshines all others: The Arena di Verona.
An open-air amphitheater still in use today, the Arena di Verona is the best representation of the city’s important history and rich culture. Today visitors can go to see a ballet, an orchestra concert or a classic opera, and even if it’s not something you’d usually do, we promise you:
There’s no better way to experience the history and magic of Verona than by seeing an opera in the Verona Arena.
What is the Verona Arena?
The Arena di Verona is the city’s magnificent amphitheater built by the Romans in 30 AD. The third largest arena in antiquity, it could once hold up to 30,000 people.
Though it looks like a miniature Colosseum, it was actually built nearly 50 years before the iconic Colosseum. Also, differently than Rome’s most famous ringed amphitheater, the Verona Arena is still used to this day.
In fact, it’s the largest Roman amphitheater still in use. Standing tall for nearly 2,000 years, the Arena has survived pillaging in the Middle Ages, an earthquake that toppled its uppermost ring, countless rulers and World War II. It has been a stage for gladiator fights, a public trial area, cheap housing for prostitutes and more and later shops, offices and a small market before ultimately returning to a theater.
Though the Arena had begun its opera tradition in the 1800s, for various reasons it still sat mostly unused. It wasn’t until nearly a century after the first performance that the Verona Arena became a true opera house with the opening of Aida by Giuseppe Verdi in 1913.
Besides brief pauses during the First and Second World Wars, the Arena has been hosting summer opera seasons ever since.
Today Verona’s Arena still fills with 15,000 – 20,000 spectators ready to enjoy an opera on a warm Italian summer night.
Why You Should See an Opera in the Verona Arena
Set dressing from Tosca sits outside the Arena in Verona. Photo by Boss Tweed
While Vienna and Milan’s infamous opera houses maintain their elegant dress code and extravagant price tag to match, opera in the Verona Arena is available to all. Travelers can choose between assigned seats and cushioned chairs and the stone seating of the amphitheater rings and whatever price range runs between the two. Accessible prices and no strict dress code mean travelers can get tickets for the opera even if they didn’t plan ahead, and if they’ve had enough they can simply get up and leave!
Built in the 1st century AD, the Arena’s acoustics are so remarkable that even today performers sing without the use of microphones and each voice can be heard in any seat throughout the entire amphitheater.
Whether you’re an opera fan or not, opera in the Verona Arena is a must-have experience. At a Verona opera you’re fully experiencing Italian culture, participating in history and enjoying a magnificent Italian summer evening in the biggest open-air opera house in the world.
The Arena’s summer opera season runs from June to mid-September, but check online for exact dates.
The 2019 Arena di Verona Opera Festival opens on June 21st with the Traviata and ends September 7th with Aida, the “Queen” of the Verona Arena. Since it debuted in 1913 on the Arena stage and officially opened the Arena back up to the public, Aida has been performed over 670 times and is a symbol of the Arena.
Spectators can also see ballet and concerts in the Arena as well.
You can purchase tickets online quickly and easily to ensure you have a spot. You can pay with credit card and look at your seating online as well. Otherwise, you can buy tickets directly at the ticket office on Via Dietro Anfiteatro 6/b from 10 am – 9 pm on performance days and until 5:45 pm on days with no performances.
Truly live La Dolce Vita on ourDolce Vita trip by adding an opera performance on your overnight stay in Verona. Click here to learn more today!
ETIAS Travel Authorization: What It Is, Why You Need It and How to Get One
Gina Mussio
Starting in 2021, non-EU citizens will be required to obtain travel authorization to enter the Schengen Area.
But don’t worry – it’s not a visa, it’s inexpensive and as easy as a 20-minute online application form!
Not happy about the changes? We understand. Traveling can already feel daunting at times and even more so with even more bureaucracy to navigate, so let us help you.
Read on to figure out about the ETIAS is and what it means to you:
Do I need a visa to travel to Europe?
No, Americans (along with many other countries) still don’t need a visa to travel to Europe Union countries for less than 90 days.
Americans, Canadians, New Zealanders, Australians and citizens from roughly 60 other countries will, however, need a special authorization to enter and travel in the Schengen Area. The authorization is called ETIAS and you can apply for it online.
If you have a passport of an EU member country, you will not need an ETIAS as long as you travel on that EU passport.
What is ETIAS and why do I need it?
ETIAS stands for the EU Travel and Authorization System. It is a completely electronic pre-screening and registration process that permits and keeps track of visitors from countries who do not need a visa to enter the Schengen Area.
It serves as a way for the European Union to gather information on travelers who currently come to the continent visa-free and strengthen security in across control-free borders.
These types of systems are in place to identify security concerns before travel to the Schengen Area and not in the passport control line, thus saving travelers time and hassle. It is also designed to improve border management, prevent irregular or illegal immigration and fight against crime and terrorism.
The United States issued a similar travel authorization system called the ESTA shortly after the September 11th terrorist attacks to improve border security and Canada has a version called the eTA.
The difference between the ETIAS and the US ESTA is that the latter pre-screens anyone traveling to the United States whereas the ETIAS pre-screens only visa-exempt travelers who wish to enter the Schengen Area.
What is the difference between the European Union and the Schengen Area?
The European Union is a union between 28 member states in Europe. Note: the EU is not synonymous with “Europe” as a continent.
Schengen countries are European countries that have signed the Schengen Agreement. Currently there are 26 countries: all the EU countries except the United Kingdom and Ireland and an addition of Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein, which are not EU member states. These countries have no internal border controls between them.
The European Union is a political and economic union. The Schengen Agreement allows for the free movement between participating countries.
How is ETIAS different from a visa?
A visa is a much more complicated process that involves photos, itineraries and financial proof that you can support your travels while abroad. Americans only need a visa to travel in the EU if they are planning to stay longer than 90 days.
To compare: the visa process may take months and isn’t guaranteed to end in success. My Italian husband who needed an ESTA travel authorization to travel to the United States filled out the form on his smartphone while at the airport and 15-minutes later was checked-in and on his way to the gate. Though we don’t recommend you book any travel before applying for the ETIAS, it is likely to be a very rapid process that is over in minutes if approved.
How do I apply?
To apply for an ETIAS travel authorization you’ll need a valid passport that doesn’t expire within three months, a credit or debit card and an email address.
The online form allows twenty minutes to fill out the application with basic demographic information as well as your country of entry and contact information. You’ll also have to answer a few background and security questions. Follow the prompts and answer honestly – your application is cross-referenced against European border security and criminal databases.
Note that for the ETIAS to work, you have to enter into the country that you stated. Even if your plan is to visit seven different Schengen Area countries, if you state on your application that the first country you will visit is Italy, you must enter Europe through Italy.
If there are no problems, then you’ll receive an email with your authorization in minutes.
Your ETIAS authorization is valid for three years. After that, you’ll have to go through the process again for a new authorization.
They are still implementing parts of the system and the application is expected to open closer to 2021.
Now that you know how easy it is to get an ETIAS travel authorization, contact us today about our full-service, expertly crafted journeys to Italy!
5 Reasons Italy is the Perfect Honeymoon Destination
Gina Mussio
What better way to ride the thrill of your wedding than by strolling through the streets of Italy lost in love? Newlyweds want to celebrate the start of their new life together with a trip to remember, and the jaw-dropping scenery, incredible food and innate passion in Italy aren’t easy to forget! Italy is the perfect honeymoon destination. Here’s why:
1. There’s something for everyone
Whether you’re searching for a dreamy coastal vacation, a relaxing countryside escape or a classic city-break, Italy has it. Between ancient cities, rolling green hills and gorgeous coastlines, the biggest problem is narrowing down your options! Couples with different ideas of vacation can find it all in Italy.
In our full-service City, Sea and Countryside itinerary you can relax on the Amalfi Coast, indulge in amazing food and wine in Tuscany, and get your history fix in Rome, all while experiencing the best of Italy’s landscapes.
Of course museums, art and architecture abound, but those hoping to get outdoors won’t be disappointed. Adventure-seekers can hike the imposing Dolomites up north or head off-coast for snorkeling or sailing. Or, couples can take it slower with a bike tour and wine tasting in Tuscany. Culture lovers, foodies and adventure seekers can all find something to love on the peninsula. Whatever you’re looking for, there’s a landscape and activity for everyone in Italy!
2. There’s no place more romantic
No place does romance like Italy. The country practically breathes amore. Home of Romeo and Juliet, of poets like Virgil, artists, writers, and lovers from time immemorial, the Bel Paese is perhaps most romantic for its sheer beauty. When you’re in front of such magnificence, it’s only natural to want to share it with someone you love.
From coast to countryside, you’ll find romance in the beautiful details of a private balcony, the secret glimpses into Italian gardens and atmospheres that feel like a film set; in the constant displays of love, the romantic two-person tabletops, long conversations and world-class landscapes. Tap into the passion of the Italians on your honeymoon: into their seductive language, mouth-watering food and sun-kissed cities.
3. The islands are as gorgeous as the mainland
Just because you’re coming to Italy doesn’t mean you have to eschew the beach honeymoon entirely. The Italian coast is dotted with hundreds of gorgeous islands, and though they’re not tropical, Italy has beaches that rival the white sands of the Caribbean. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters along the Emerald Coast in Sardinia or mix culture and beach life with a tour around the coastline of Sicily. Smaller island options include Ponza, Ischia or Elba. You can even split your honeymoon between cultural sightseeing and living the high life on the Mediterranean Sea.
Want to see the coast and the islands? Try an Amalfi Coast escape, with luxurious days on the breathtaking coast to private boat tours of nearby Capri and Ischia.
4. It’s a great destination year-round
No matter when your honeymoon falls, Italy is worth visiting. The summer runs hot, perfect for those looking to visit the seaside or mountains, but is also the height of crowds and prices. For that reason the shoulder seasons, spring and autumn are great alternatives to those looking for more moderate prices and moderate temperatures. Keep in mind that Italy often stays warmer for much longer than other temperate climates, especially if you’re in the south. And spring is a lovely time to visit, when the entire country is warming up and in full bloom. Wintertime can be equally romantic, with cozy meals, warm ski lodges and the city dressed in lights during Christmastime. You don’t have to time your trip with hurricane season or the strength of the sun: every season is worth experiencing in Italy.
5. It’s home to the dolce vita
Everyone could use a vacation after the stress of wedding planning, and there’s no better place than the home of la dolce vita. Meaning the “sweet life” in Italian, it’s about indulgence and pleasure – just what you need on a vacation! The dolce vita comes from a life spent seeing beautiful things, talking with beautiful people and eating beautiful food. Tap in to that mentality on your Italian honeymoon to relax and unwind and enjoy the beauty life has to offer.
Those looking for total relaxation can try a smaller, less frequented location for a slower pace of life. But you can unwind anywhere in Italy. Imagine full days on the beach interrupted only by long lunches or soaking in one of the many thermal baths found in spas throughout the country. Take part in the leisurely pre-dinner passeggiata, when the entire town comes out to walk through the center and enjoy the evening air.
It’s time to indulge, relax and enjoy the romance of Il Bel Paese!
Planning a wedding can sometimes feel like work, but planning a honeymoon never should. Ciao Andiamo’s carefully curated, ready-to-book itineraries put all the romance of Italy right at your fingertips. Contact us today to plan your perfect Italian honeymoon.
What better way to enjoy springtime in Italy than a stroll through one of its breathtaking gardens? Springtime is a great time to visit Italy. Visitors during the shoulder season save money on flights and accommodation and enjoy fewer crowds than the jam-packed summer months. Mild temperatures reign with hot days possible in the south as the spring season bursts into bloom throughout the entire peninsula.
Take advantage of the excellent weather to tour some of Italy’s most beautiful gardens and parks, from north to south:
Isola Bella and Isola Madre; Lake Maggiore, Piedmont
Photo by Ed Webster
Two of the five Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore, these two are most noted for their gorgeous gardens. Isola Bella, (literally, ‘beautiful island’ in English) is an Italian-style garden whereas Isola Madre (mother island) was created in the classic English style. Both were made to accompany the beautiful villa dominating the small islands. Huge amounts of soil were shipped over to Isola Bella in the 17th century to create the gardens. Today you can see statues, obelisks, staircases and a remarkable amphitheater, not to mention the island’s infamous peacocks! Isola Madre has served as an orchard, olive tree grove and a citrus grove. Today it’s a gorgeous botanical garden with long, green boulevards and hundreds of different plant and vegetable species.
Villa Carlotta; Tremezzo, Lombardy
Photo by David Spender
This 17th century Villa was built for a local nobleman, and though the opulent house is worth a visit, the real draw is the nearly 20 acres of gardens overlooking beautiful Lake Como. Tucked between the lake and the mountains, the botanic gardens are filled with a variety of camellias, azaleas, rhododendrons, tropical plants, and centuries-old Cedar trees. Though beautiful year-round, see the gardens turn into a veritable heaven-on-earth come spring.
Parco Giardino Sigurtà; Peschiera del Garda, Veneto
Photo by Gabriele Vincenzi
Located near massive Lake Garda, this park is enormous in its own right. In fact, it’s Italy’s largest garden! Covering nearly 60 hectares, the landscaped gardens feature a maze as well as a petting zoo with donkeys, goats, chickens and horses for children. Explore the park on foot or by bike to see the more than 1 million tulips in March and April and nearly 30,000 rose bushes that bloom come May.
The Boboli and the Bardini Gardens; Florence, Tuscany
One of the most iconic views of Florence is seen from the beautiful Boboli Gardens. Photo by stevekc
Behind Florence’s famed Palazzo Pitti is the city’s most celebrated garden: The Boboli Gardens and the Bardini Gardens inside. Covering 111 acres in the center of Florence, this huge park has plenty to explore, from ancient to modern statues, fountains, grottos and greenhouses. Take a break from sightseeing in the city with a relaxing stroll through these impressive gardens. Be sure to visit the Bardini Gardens as well (there is a ticket that allows you to visit both) for one of the best views of Florence you can find.
Borghese Gardens; Rome, Lazio
Photo by Larry Koester
The Borghese Gardens are now a free public park open to all. Once a private garden for the Borghese Villa (now the Borghese Gallery), the Gardens span 148 acres, making them the third largest park in Rome. Though they are a priceless refuge from the Roman heat in summer, come in spring to enjoy this city oasis in full bloom and a pleasant temperature.
Rose Gardens; Rome, Lazio
Opposite the Circo Massimo lies the Roman Rose Garden, first created in the 1930’s and home to over 1000 varieties of roses. It’s an ideal setting for a romantic stroll, but hides a darker past: the area once formed part of Rome’s Jewish Ghetto, and housed the Jewish cemetery. Look closely and you’ll see that the footpaths form the shape of a menorah in a nod to the district’s past.
Ninfa Gardens; Ninfa, Lazio
Photo by Bojana Brkovic
Once a populous medieval town, Ninfa fell abandoned after economic struggles and a malaria outbreak. It sat mostly unused until the 1900s, when it was rediscovered and transformed into a botanic garden. Though you can only see the gardens at certain times and on a guided tour, it’s worth it to learn the history and soak in the atmosphere. Here you’ll find plants of all types among the town’s ruins. There’s even a castle!
Villa d’Este Gardens; Tivoli, Lazio
Photo by Dmitry Dzhus
These Italian Renaissance gardens are perhaps some of the most famous gardens on the entire list. A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tivoli, near Rome, they’re also considered some of the most beautiful gardens in all of Italy. Go to see the unique fountains that dot the gardens, including the large shell-shaped Fontana del Bicchierone, the Rometta Fountain with a wolf-suckling Romulus and Remus statue and the Avenue of the Hundred Fountains.
Buonaccorsi Garden; Potenza Picena, Le Marche
Though few know of this 18th-century garden, the Baroque, Italian-style gardens are an incredible testament to the era’s attention to detail. Perfectly preserved according to its original design, the Buonaccorsi Garden is laid out with perfectly symmetrical geometric patterns of diamond and star shapes. The garden is free to visit, so go to explore the grotto, the tiny lake and the super-romantic secret garden.
La Mortella Gardens; Ischia, Campania
Photo by Andrew Fogg
Invented and created by Susana Walton, the Argentinian wife of British composer William Walton, these tropical gardens completely surround the couples home on the island of Ischia, in the Bay of Naples. Here you’ll find more than 3,000 species of exotic, tropical plants, vertical terraces of plants and enormous tropical waterlilies that fill the pond in front of “La Bocca”, a sculpture of a face with a water sprout out of its mouth. Though created relatively recently, in the 1950s, the gardens are a tropical paradise in the Mediterranean sea.
Villa Rufolo; Ravello, Campania
Photo by Curt Smith
The Amalfi Coast is filled with incredible vistas, but at Villa Rufolo you can enjoy the panorama in a gorgeous atmosphere as well. The 14th-century villa in Ravello is a masterpiece of medieval architecture, but its true draw comes from the flowers that cover nearly every centimeter of the property. Stroll under abundant wisteria arches while enjoying a view of the Mediterranean from on high.
Lama degli Ulivi Botanic Gardens; Monopoli, Puglia
The name is apt for these botanic gardens: the highlight is the olive trees. Gnarled and ancient, these olive trees are a testament to the area’s agricultural history, but that’s not all you can see here. The sun-bleached dirt paths will take you past more than 2,000 species of plants, as well as obscure rock churches.
Kolymbetra Garden; Agrigento, Sicily
A view of the Temple of Dioscuri from among the olive trees. Photo by Giulio Nepi
This botanical garden with a strange name is located in Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples. Dating back to ancient times when the garden was an important lake surrounded by beautiful plants and flowers and filled with fish. Despite this, it sat abandoned for centuries until 1999 when the Italian Environmental Foundation (FAI) took over, drawing out its former beauty with citrus trees, olive groves and tropical plants. Today it’s a verdant oasis beneath the ancient Greek temples.
What if you could explore Italy without the stress of reservations, tickets or travel planning? What if you had an automatic “in” to the culture, people and language?
A small group tour is one of the best ways to really get to know Italy.
On our small group tours you explore Italy with a local Italian guide and a group of eight people or fewer, visiting the kitchens, homes and family businesses of real Italians. Each experience is authentic, off-the-beaten-path and carefully curated by a dedicated tour leader. We like to say our small group tours give travelers the greatest insider access at the greatest value.
But it’s not just us who think so – we asked our clients to share what they loved about their small group tour experience. Each traveler’s story was different, but the same five themes kept coming up again and again.
Here’s why you should choose a small group tour:
1. Small Groups are Fun and Friendly
Our small group tours are capped at eight travelers total. “When they say ‘small group,’ they mean small,” said fellow traveler Sarah. And there’s nothing like traveling together to spark friendship. Linda said her group touring the Amalfi Coast and Puglia was “the envy of other travelers, even Italians! We bonded with our fellow travelers immediately and laughed almost all the time that we weren’t eating.” Other travelers, including Svetlana, ended up liking their group so much, they traveled together again the following year!
2. Travel Like a Local, With a Local
Traveler Lindsay put it perfectly when she said Ciao Andiamo co-owner Max Brunelli “knows everyone in Italy.” As the leader for many of our small group tours, Max builds lasting relationships not only with the travelers, but with the local olive oil producers, cheese makers and guides. Sarah said the welcome her group received at each of their tour stops was “indescribable,” and the whole group was “made to feel like old friends” by the winery owners and chefs they visited on her tour of Umbria and Tuscany. Your tour leader isn’t just showing you Italy, they’re welcoming you into their way of life and giving you an inside-look into the lives of fellow Italians.
3. Deep Dive into the Culture
If you’re looking for an authentic, one-of-a-kind experience in Italy, small group tours are a great way to go. Your tour leader will take you off the beaten path to destinations you wouldn’t find on your own. “We felt like we were living like true Italians,” Meghan said, and Sarah enjoyed that there were few tourists or buses at their tour stops.
Some of our travelers favorite experiences include hands-on cooking classes led by local Italian chefs. In the town of Alberobello in Puglia, an Italian nonna will teach you to recreate recipes passed down by her family for generations inside a historic trullo home.
A cooking class in Umbria takes you inside one of the region’s first agriturismi (farmhouse restaurants), tucked in the hills between Spello and Assisi, where you’ll join the owner in preparing regional delicacies. In each room of the agriturismo, you’ll learn to make a different course, with the help of friendly chefs and local wine. Make pasta by hand, bake bread in a wood-burning stone oven and use fresh produce from the farm to complement your courses. You’ll experience the romance of country life as you feast on your artisanal creations in a rustic dining room with your newly-formed friends.
4. Stress-Free Travel
All Ciao Andiamo trips are designed to give you a seamless experience, but small group tours take it a step further with a dedicated tour leader who is on-hand from the moment your tour begins. Your tour leader is there to take care of every detail – transportation, hotels, food and experiences – and give the group flexibility to enjoy each day to the fullest. Beyond being flexible, your tour leader will also spend time getting to know the group and can adjust the day’s activities based on your interests and preferred level of activity. Their goal is to give you the best day possible, every day of your trip.
As Svetlana says, “all we had to do is show up. From the time we arrived, each day was seamlessly organized, full of surprises, incredible journeys, AMAZING FOOD!, well orchestrated schedules, and provided good balance of personal time and guided excursions through the unique hidden treasures of Italy.”
Our small group tours include accommodations, ground transportation throughout, daily culinary and/or cultural excursions, two meals per day (breakfast plus lunch or dinner) and pick-up/drop-off in a major city.
5. Travel Without Sacrificing Free Time
In addition to daily excursions, your group will have plenty of down time to relax or explore on your own – it’s your vacation! Elaine fondly remembers how Max “arranged free time for us to wander in quaint seaside towns” on her tour of the Amalfi Coast and Puglia, and gave the group “plenty of time to enjoy feasts overlooking breath-taking scenery with the backdrop of a beautiful sunset.”
Since your tour will start and end in a major city, it’s easy to add more traveling on your own before or after your tour. Some travelers, like Sarah, include a small group tour as just one leg of a longer trip. Ask the Ciao team for a recommendation for making the most of your time in Italy, we’re happy to help!
Don’t see a date that matches your vacation schedule? It never hurts to ask! New dates may open up, or we can recommend another trip based on your interests. If you already have a group of travelers, you can also ask us how to the trip private.
What to Know Before You Go on Your Dream Trip to Italy
Ciao Andiamo
You’ve booked your flight, your itinerary is set, and you’re ready to savor each and every day of beautiful Italia. But before you leave, there are a few things you’ll need to prepare to help you have the best trip possible. From the language to your cell phone to power outlets, here’s what to do before you go to Italy:
Learn Some Language Basics
If you want to communicate directly with the locals, don’t worry – you might be surprised how many people will know English as you travel through Italy. But don’t let this stop you from learning a bit of the beautiful Italian language, as it’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture, even with some common greetings and basic phrases. Everyone knows Ciao and Grazie, so why not use them? Or, go a step further and add the more formal buongiorno and buonasera to your repertoire for morning and evening salutes. Scusi goes a long way when asking permission, trying to get attention or simply apologizing and of course, cono or coppa is a must-half for your daily gelato run!
Before your trip, sign up for a free language-learning service to practice some of the key Italian phrases – Duolingo is one popular option. For a deeper dive into the language, the Ciao team loves the Pimsleur method. If you’re not fluent by the time you arrive in Italia, don’t despair! There are translation apps that you can use on-the-go to look up an unfamiliar word on the restaurant menu or respond to a friendly shopkeeper. These range from basic English-Italian dictionaries to apps with audio translations. Check out iTranslate for Apple products or Italian Translator on the Google Play Store.
Prep Your Wallet and Carry Cash
The best way to pay for un cappuccino at the local bar is with a handful of euro, the currency used in Italy. Carry cash to use for souvenir shopping and other small payments such as the daily city tax charged by most hotels. You can use the ATMs in Italy to get cash, as they typically have a good conversion rate. Check with your bank first about flat fees versus percentage-based fees on international ATMs.
If you prefer to arrive in Italy with a full wallet, you can also get euro from your bank or another financial institution in the U.S., Canada or U.K. However, you’ll typically experience a higher exchange rate than you’ll find in Italy, so we recommend only withdrawing a few hundred euro, maximum.
Most restaurants, stores, and establishments in Italy will take credit cards, especially those with a chip. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted cards; American Express can be used at some locations, but not all. Before you leave, tell your credit card company that you’re traveling to Italy so you won’t be surprised with a denied card; if the credit card company thinks your card has been stolen, they’ll freeze it.
Make Sure Your Passport is Valid
One lesser-known tip travelers to Italy should keep in mind involves your passport. Italy requires that a passport must be valid for 6 months after the end of the trip, so it can’t expire five weeks after your adventure ends. Make sure to double check the date before your departure!
Prep Your Phone for International Travel
Bringing your cell phone abroad doesn’t just mean remembering to take it with you! Before you leave for Italy, call your current phone carrier and let them know that you’ll be travelling internationally. Most carriers can easily switch your plan to include an international data plan, and potentially a calling or texting plan, for the duration of your trip.
Even with an international plan, using cellular data can get expensive quickly. Be on the lookout for WiFi if you need to use your phone while in Italy, and turn data roaming off when you aren’t using it. If you’re not sure how much data you’ll be using when abroad, don’t worry; you can easily monitor it during your trip and upgrade if necessary.
Get an Adapter
While vacationing in Italy is the perfect chance to ignore your inbox, you’ll want to keep your phone fully charged for taking photos and looking up the Italian words for “more gelato please.” Power outlets in Italy are circular, with two or three cylindrical prongs in a row. An electronic adaptor will allow you to plug in your devices anywhere in Italy.
Some appliances that deal with motion or temperature, like a hair dryer or electric razor, will also need a voltage converter. Check the label or check online to be sure if your appliance is compatible with wall outlets in Italy. You can buy the correct adaptors and converters online or in stores such as Best Buy, Target, and B&H.
Pack Smart
When deciding what to pack for your Italian adventure, consider the time of year you’ll be traveling. To really go in-depth, check out the best tips for what clothing to pack for your Italian vacation compiled by Cristiana, our very own Italy expert.
In general, pack light, neutral colors that you can layer and comfortable shoes, but also keep in mind if you’re planning activities that require more elegant attire. If you’re planning any nice dinners, be sure to pack long pants or a dress in addition to your shorts. Some fine dining establishments may require jackets for men – if you’re unsure, it never hurts to ask! You’ll also need outfits that cover your shoulders and your legs down to your knees to enter Italy’s beautiful churches and basilicas.
Finally, make sure to pack comfortable shoes, but to best blend in with the locals stick with your favorite pair of flats, boots or walking shoes. In most cities, you’ll find people selling umbrellas on every corner – especially when it rains – so feel free to leave yours at home and get a small one only if needed. Instead, bring sunglasses in the hopes that you will be wearing them every day in beautiful sunny weather!
Read, Watch and Get Inspired
In the months counting down to your Italian adventure, consider reading books, watching movies or binging shows that will best prepare you for your trip – be it the delicious food, beautiful sights, rich culture or friendly locals.
For a romantic and hilarious trip to the Italian coast, dive into the book Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter, about an almost-love affair between an Italian innkeeper and a Hollywood actress. Elizabeth von Arnim wrote her novel The Enchanted April in Portofino, following four English women – all strangers – on their tumultuous vacation in Portofino’s Castello Brown and their journey to find beauty and tranquility together on the coast.
Pop some popcorn for the classic film Roman Holiday (1953), featuring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck as the unlikely lovers in Rome. The Trip to Italy (2014) follows two friends on their hilarious culinary road trip from Piedmont to Capri. For a shorter adventure into the cuisine of Italy, watch the first episode of Netflix’s Chef’s Table, featuring Massimo Bottura and his innovative food, which he serves at Osteria Francescana in Modena. Aziz Ansari also dines here during season 2 of Netflix’s Master of None, which features Dev’s trip through Modena to learn how to make pasta.
Now that you’re ready to go, contact Ciao Andiamo to help make your dream trip to Italy a reality!
My husband and I play a game whenever we travel – “spot the Italian.” Even in the middle of a crowded airport, we can always recognize another Italian by their distinct style. Italians pride themselves on being fashionable and on their own bella figura, or making a good impression, so it’s no wonder that travelers often ask us what they should pack in order to “fit in.”
Beyond fashion, Italy is also a narrow peninsula with distinct weather patterns that will impact your wardrobe. Here’s what you need to know about how to pack for your trip to Italy.
Stay Breezy in Summer
Summer in the north of Italy is very hot and humid, and the south is warmer all year round. Bring lightweight clothes in cotton or natural fibers such a linen to feel fresh throughout the day. Men can wear shorts, but many Italians prefer lightweight trousers. Sundresses are a popular, and breezy, option for women. You won’t see many Italians past high school age in denim shorts and flip flops, and make sure to bring dressier options for dinner. Don’t forget a bikini, sunglasses and sunblock if you’re headed to the beach!
Layer Up for Spring & Autumn
Travel in the shoulder season can be ideal, since prices are usually lower and popular destinations less crowded. The weather during these seasons can change day by day, so be sure to pack layers and versatile items. In spring, the temperature can range from the high 50s to low 80s depending on the city and time of day. Pants, a lightweight shirt and a jacket or sweater should carry you through the day. Rain showers are common in the early afternoon, so don’t forget to pack an umbrella.
Cover Up in Winter
Though we might imagine this Mediterranean country as the home of eternal sunshine, the winter can be cold in Italy. Northern Italy is cold in winter and even the more mild south can still get quite chilly. The weather can be windy but snow is usually reserved for the mountains. If you want to dress like an Italian, tour around with a puffy jacket, scarf and boots, but even gloves and a hat. Italians don’t shy away from the outdoors in the winter, but they do tend to dress for the occasion. Winter travelers can expect some sunshine in the afternoons to warm up an Italian winter day.
Accessorize Like an Italian
Comfort is key when traveling, especially in major cities where you’ll do a lot of walking. In summer, canvas shoes or sandals will work best. Italians only wear flip flops on the beach or at the pool, so you may stand out by wearing them in a city. Some restaurants will not allow flip flops, so bring a change of shoes for dinner. Boots or canvas shoes are good options for fall, winter and spring, and make sure they’re waterproof. If you want to take a page out of an Italian’s stylebook, you can also buy leather shoes during your trip, especially if you’re visiting Florence.
Italians have a love affair with pashmina scarves. In the colder months we wear cashmere or wool scarves, but we even have silk and cotton options for summer! Pashminas make a great souvenir as well, so look for them in local shops and markets.
Pro Tip
Italian churches require visitors to cover their shoulders when entering. Avoid any entrance issues by carrying a scarf or sweater in your bag to cover up – even in summer – and be sure your hemline is low enough to be respectful.
And remember, for packing or any other needs or questions, Ciao Andiamo travelers can reach out at any time to their travel specialist before and during their trip.
Reading a menu at an Italian coffee bar can feel like more than just a foreign language – it’s a glimpse into Italy’s culture and identity. Unlike American coffee, Caffè Italiano revolves solely around espresso and the different ways it can be served. Here’s an in-depth guide to your options for all things caffeinated.
The Basics
Caffè: A simple espresso. Though caffè means “coffee” in Italian, it isn’t your standard American coffee. If you’re unfamiliar with espressos, you’ll be getting a small cup of strong coffee served on a saucer with a spoon.
Cappuccino: An espresso with steamed whole milk and foam, an Italian favorite typically served in a slightly larger cup than the espresso.
Caffè Latte: An espresso with hot milk, served in a glass. Make sure to order caffè latte and not just latte, as you’d be getting a glass of milk from the barista instead!
Caffè Macchiato: An espresso with a bit of foamed milk on top. Macchiato means “marked” or “stained,” so it is an espresso “marked” with a little foamed milk.
Latte Macchiato: A glass of steamed milk with a bit of espresso, or “marked” with a small amount of espresso. If you want a bit more espresso, like a double latte, order a dark version, or latte macchiato scuro.
More Than Milk
Caffè con Panna: An espresso topped with sweet, often fresh, whipped cream. This drink is especially for those who want a sweeter version of the caffè macchiato.
Caffè Corretto: An espresso with a drop of liquor. Popular choices are grappa, Sambuca, or cognac.
Caffè con Zucchero: An espresso with sugar added for you. Most bars have patrons add their own sugar from a packet or container at the bar.
Less Caffeinated
Decaffeinato or Caffè Hag: A decaffeinated espresso. Hag is the largest producer of decaf coffee in Italy, so some bars will write their name on the menu instead of decaffeinato.
Caffè Lungo: A “long” espresso, when the barista allows the machine to run longer, adding water and making the coffee a bit weaker.
Caffè Americano: An espresso diluted with hot water, the closest drink to American filtered coffee you’ll find in an Italian bar.
Caffè Americano Decaffeinato: A decaf espresso diluted with hot water, the closest drink to American filtered decaf coffee.
Cold Coffee
Caffè Shakerato: An espresso shaken with sugar and ice, typically served in a martini or cocktail glass. Some bars add chocolate syrup for an extra layer of sweetness.
Caffè Freddo: An espresso served iced or cold, typically served in a glass. If you order a caffè freddo alla vaniglia, you can add vanilla syrup or vanilla liquor to the mix.
Granita di Caffè: An espresso-flavored icy slush, typically with added sugar, almost like a coffee snow cone. Not all places will have this available but some ice cream shops will!
Regional Specialties
Espresso in Naples typically comes with the sugar added. If you don’t like your coffee sweet, order un caffè sense zucchero. Or try caffè alla nocciola, an espresso with froth and hazelnut cream,for a special local treat.
In Milan, coffee bars serve an upside-down cappuccino called a marocchino. Served in a served in a small glass sprinkled with cocoa powder a marocchino starts with a bottom layer of frothed milk and is finished off with a shot of espresso.
The Piemontese enjoy a traditional drink created from layers of dense hot cocoa, espresso and cream, called bicerìn.
Planning a getaway to Italy? Whether it’s your first time to the bel paese or you’re a travel veteran, here are some pro tips to help travel in Italy like a local.
1. Buongiorno Will Only Get You So Far (in the Day)
Your guidebook may have told you that boungiorno means “hello,” but Italians use it to mean “good morning.” Switch to buonasera (good evening) in the mid-afternoon, or, if you’re feeling ambitious, use buon pomeriggio to wish someone a good afternoon. Only say buona notte (good night) at the end of the night, when it’s time for bed!
2. Lunch Like an Italian
Lunch is traditionally the biggest meal of the day, and an important social occasion when families get together. Meal times can vary by region; the further south you go, the later lunch typically begins. As a rule of thumb, restaurants won’t open for lunch before 12:30 pm, or 7:30 pm for dinner. Shops typically close between 1-4 pm for lunchtime, especially in smaller, less touristic towns, so make like a local and relax after a big meal.
3. Say Arrivederci to Spaghetti and Meatballs
You won’t find spaghetti and meatballs or fettucine alfredo on any true Italian menu! Embrace la cucina Italiana and try some of the local cuisine, which can vary across the country. Each region features dishes that highlight its own local ingredients and unique cooking styles. In Rome, you’ll find cacio e pepe, pasta with pecorino cheese and peppercorns, and carciofi alla roman, Roman-style artichokes. Milan is famous for its risotto, and Tuscan cuisine features bistecca fiorentina, Florentine steak, and simple dishes like panzanella, bread salad.
4. When in Rome, Do as Romans Do
If you are seeking an experience that is authentic and off-the-beaten-path, look no further than the local Italian favorites. Some of the most authentic Italian jaunts may appear simple and nothing special from the outside, but they make for some of the richest and most delicious dining experiences you can find. These places are often unassuming and removed from the most heavily toured sites. For instance, if you want an authentic dining experience in Venice, you shouldn’t eat right in Piazza di San Marco. Be adventurous, and embrace the real local culture!
5. Visit the ‘Bar’ Morning, Noon and Night
In Italy, ‘bar’ has a different meaning – it’s a place where you can go to get a caffé (espresso) or cappuccino, or perhaps a little pastry or sandwich. Italians stand at the counter just long enough to drink an espresso and chat with the barista before heading on their way (for more, read our tips for navigating an Italian coffee bar). Italians often visit their favorite bar multiple times a day for a little caffeine boost, so be sure to taste your way through the menu of espresso options.
6. Take a Break From Brunch
Italian breakfast is typically a lighter meal, with maybe some cereal and yogurt or toast with nutella or jam. If you are eating in a hotel, you can enjoy a buffet with these options and some cheeses and sliced meats. If you venture out to a coffee bar, order a cappuccino or espresso and pastry with chocolate, jam, or cream. Italians only really drink cappuccino in the morning, and never after lunch or dinner.
7. Take It Slow at the Table
In Italy, there is a standard order of Italian courses (antipasti, primi, secondi and contorni, dessert and espresso). You don’t have to eat a full 4-course meal every time, but this is the order in which they serve the different dishes. Primi are ‘first courses’: a pasta, soup or rice dish. Secondi are ‘second courses,’ being meat, fish or poultry. When dining, waiters typically won’t check on a table very frequently, as it is custom to let diners linger and enjoy pauses between courses without being disturbed. Instead, if you need your waiter, flag them down. Dining in Italy is a social experience, so take your time soaking in the amazing food and wine with family and friends!
8. Tip (or Don’t Tip) Like an Italian
If you come from a tipping culture, it can be tough to get used to the idea of not leaving tips for waiters, taxi drivers, and hotel service. But Italians do not tip. In a restaurant, locals will often leave nothing at all, or at most 2-5 Euro, regardless of the bill. If you can’t help yourself, a good rule of thumb is to leave the change from your bill or at most 5-10%.
9. Master Public Transportation
When riding the bus or train, don’t forget to get your ticket stamped before getting on board. Look for the little yellow machines at the train terminals or on the bus, where you can stick your ticket in to get it validated. In some places, like Venice, when riding on the public water taxi, tickets are electronic, and you can hold your ticket up to the machine for it to scan.
10. Get Behind the Wheel
Driving from town to town in the countryside or on the highway is often manageable, with easy-to-follow signs pointing the way towards different destinations. However, the arrival and departure from big cities can be harder to manage and very stressful, especially in cities like Rome where there are no rules and lots of vespas weaving in and out of traffic aggressively. Don’t be intimidated by Italians’ reputation as aggressive drivers. Driving beyond the major cities and towns is sometimes the best way to discover the real Italy – all the local favorites and hidden gems Italia has to offer!
Don’t let visiting a new country intimidate you! Instead, let us handle all the details on our Italy for First Timers tour.
From espresso to caffè latte, Italian coffee is famous throughout the world. The delicious roast and small shots of caffeine are ubiquitous to Italy – and necessary for a jet lagged traveler! When in Italy, make your way to the local coffee shop (called a bar here) and order your favorite. Ordering coffee in Italy is taking part in an ingrained ritual of Italian culture. Here are five tips on how to navigate a coffeeshop and order coffee like an Italian.
1. Milk is for Mornings Only
The only people drinking coffee with milk after breakfast time are surely not Italian. The rule? You shouldn’t drink any coffee beverage that includes milk, be it a cappuccino or caffè latte, after 11 am or after a meal. Italians believe that the combination of hot milk and food in your stomach has an unsettling effect, so make sure to order your cappuccino before you start your day. Many Italians will have a breakfast of un cappuccino and a pastry, like a brioche al cioccolato. After lunch Italians order un caffè which means a normal espresso or at most un caffè macchiato, which is an espresso topped with a dollop of foamed milk.
2.Stay on Your Feet
If you’re ordering un caffè in an Italian coffeehouse, you’ll probably notice that most Italians are standing and drinking their coffee. In Italy, cafés are known as bars, and for good reason – Italians order their coffee at the bar, drink their coffee at the bar, and pay for their coffee at the bar, all while standing. This is for a variety of reasons. For one, the coffee is short and taken almost like a shot. There’s no need to sit down and nurse an espresso cup. Not only that, but Italians usually have their morning coffee with just a small pastry or nothing at all, so there’s no need to sit down. Finally, some bars will even charge a bit more if you have your coffee at a table!
3. Pay Like a Local
Different bars have different methods for their patrons to pay for their coffee. Some cafés have you order and pay at the register before bringing your receipt to the barista to make your drink. Others allow patrons to order and drink their coffee at the bar first, and then tell the cashier what they had to pay before leaving. To be certain, take a look at what the other customers are doing and follow suit.
When ordering your coffee, there’s no need to say espresso – a single espresso is un caffè. For those unfamiliar with espresso, you’ll be getting a small cup of strong coffee served on a saucer. If you ask for a latte, you’ll be getting a tall glass of milk. Order a caffè latte instead. There’s also typically no extensive list of flavored coffee, so try to keep your order simple. For a more detailed list, check out our guide to Italian coffee.
5.Become a Regular
Italians typically don’t drink un caffè doppio, a double espresso, but it’s not because they don’t consume as much coffee. Rather, Italians visit their local bar multiple times a day to drink several small cups of coffee, often chatting with the barista before going to their next appointment or errand. There’s no better break during the day then a visit to the local coffeehouse. In just a few minutes customers share information, make business deals, gossip and reset for whatever comes next in the day, all with a delicious sip of Italian coffee.
If you don’t have the Italian coffee rituals memorized, don’t worry – the servers will be there to assist you, as most of them are friendly and happy to help.
Enjoy your caffè!
Let’s have the CTA be for our Italy Immersion package (perhaps language about immersing yourself in Italy’s cafe culture, or experiencing cafes in 4 different corners of the country)
Immerse yourself in Italy’s coffee culture across the boot on our private Italy Immersion tour.
Summer may seem like the obvious choice for vacation, and more travelers are embracing the shoulder season, but we’d like to make a case for the off-season: Italy in December. With its festive atmosphere and mild weather, the holiday season can be the best time to experience Italy.
Here are five reasons to add a December vacation to your wish list:
1. Festive Lights & Open Air Markets
December marks the season when cities and small villages throughout Italy shine brightly with Christmas lights. Locals flock to open air markets to buy holiday gifts and enjoy December nights with friends and family. Not only is it simply beautiful, it’s also a unique way to take part in the Italian experience.
Christmas lights and massive trees add to the festive atmosphere of December in Italy
2. Plenty to Do Outdoors
Italians spend the winter hiding inside. Besides the wonderful Christmas markets to explore, you’ll find outdoor ice rinks set up in most major cities during the holiday season – and they’re not just for the tourists! The rinks are filled with families, teenagers, and children enjoying the holiday cheer and a festive way to ward off the winter chill. If you’re not feeling up to lacing up your own skates, you can grab a cappuccino at a nearby cafe and people watch to your hearts desire. Cafés in Italy will often have outdoor tables available throughout the winter, with heat lamps, fires or even blankets to keep guests warm. Do like the locals do and find one during the day to soak in every ray of sun available. Beyond that you can ski in the mountains, go snow-shoe hiking, window shop and generally enjoy your time outside, no need to hide!
3. Sweet Treats Galore
In December, stores and markets throughout Italy are stocked with traditional Italian dessert breads – panettone and pandoro. Both are sweet yeast breads found only during this time of year. Pandoro, traditionally from Verona, means bread of gold and was a staple on the tables of the rich Venetians during Christmastime. Today it’s a Christmas classic for all Italians.
Panettone is the Lombard answer. A tall loaf, panettone is filled with dried fruit and candied citrus and is a Milanese tradition. Of course at any Christmas market you can find a wealth of sweet treats, but it isn’t Christmas in Italy without one of these traditional sweet breads!
You can only find this delicious Italian sweet bread in December.
4. The Weather is Just Right
Sure, you might need to pack a winter coat and scarf, but Italy in December is actually quite moderate and for many preferable than the scorching summer for touring. Temperatures in the north range from 25 – 45 degrees Fahrenheit (though the mountains have their own microclimate) while the south easily enjoys an average of 50 degrees and in Sicily it may get as high as 60 degrees Fahrenheit in December. January and February run colder and November rainier, but December is a sweet small in-between.
5. It’s Italy Without The Crowds
Plain and simple: December may be the best time to visit some of Italy’s most popular and heavily touristed destinations such as Venice or the Italian Riviera. Imagine all the picture-perfect beauty of Italy, but without the crowds and selfie sticks. It’s a whole different experience to stroll through the enchanted city’s winding side streets, walk through Piazza San Marco and overlook bridges and canals or hike one of the famed Cinque Terre trails when it feels like you have all of the city to yourself.
December in Italy means having small towns like Camogli all to yourself
Ready to experience the magic of Italia for yourself? Contact us to begin planning!
