brescia

Bergamo and Brescia: Italy’s Joint Culture Capitals

Italy’s Lombardy region is home to two historic cities, Bergamo and Brescia, that are sharing the title of Italian Capital of Culture for 2023. This joint designation highlights their resilience after being severely impacted by the early days of the pandemic. Both cities are eager to showcase their rich cultural heritage and attract visitors, aiming to boost tourism after a difficult period. Bergamo and Brescia are Italy’s first joint Capital of Culture. The collaboration between Bergamo and Brescia is particularly

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Italian Lakes: Dazzling Villas and Palace Islands

The Italian Lakes feel like a collection of jewels, each with its own distinct sparkle. My recent trip, which combined elements from a few different itineraries, felt like uncovering a secret world. It’s a place where historic villas meet mountain peaks, and charming villages dot lake shores, all within reach of magnificent cities. I can see why people talk about falling in love with this region; it has a way of drawing you in. Lake Maggiore Exploration Our journey began

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Lombardy: Taste Italy’s Sweet Life

Lombardy is a region that beautifully blends Italy’s rich history with its forward-thinking innovation. While Milan, its capital, is a powerhouse of business and fashion, the region offers so much more. Imagine medieval villages, sparkling lakeside resorts, and dramatic mountain passes all within reach. It’s a place where iconic landscapes, like Lake Como set against the majestic Alps, truly embody “la dolce vita.” World-class art, from Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpieces to design fairs, draws visitors from around the globe. Lombardy

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Tuscany’s Pienza: Italy’s Most Beautiful Town

I’m standing in the middle of Piazza Pio II, and for a second, I forget that this tiny, perfect square was essentially designed as a stage set. The travertine paving under my feet is warm, the afternoon light hits the cathedral facade just right, and I can see the Val d’Orcia rolling out beyond the edge of town like a painting someone forgot to frame. Pienza, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996, is often called the first “ideal Renaissance

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Your Guide to Italy’s Quietest Destinations

Italy is a dream destination for many, and while the iconic cities like Rome and Venice draw massive crowds, there’s a whole other side to this beautiful country. If you’re like me, seeking a more peaceful and authentic experience, you’ll be delighted to know there are plenty of wonderful places that offer all the charm and beauty of Italy without the overwhelming throngs of tourists. These are the spots where you can truly connect with the culture, savor the local

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Discover Lake Garda’s 10 Must-See Places

Lake Garda stretches for over 50 kilometres between Brescia and Verona, and its sheer size means the character of its shoreline changes dramatically from north to south. The northern basin, where the mountains drop straight into deep teal water, feels entirely different from the southern beaches and flatland promenades. I spent a week driving the perimeter with Michael and the kids, and the biggest surprise was how much the landscape shifted every twenty minutes — from alpine fjord to Mediterranean

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Discover Verona, a City of Love and More

Verona sits in the heart of Italy’s Veneto region, a city often called the city of love. Its charming architecture and connection to Romeo and Juliet make it a romantic spot. Beyond the city itself, the region offers incredible day trip opportunities. I’ve found that renting a car offers the most flexibility, especially for reaching more rural areas. However, Italy’s efficient high-speed rail network connects many major cities, providing a budget-friendly option for many excursions. Ala Just south of Verona,

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