Milan can certainly feel like the center of the universe sometimes, but venturing just a short distance away opens up a whole new world of charming Italian towns and stunning natural landscapes. For me, it’s always about finding those places that offer a little bit of history, a touch of beauty, and a chance to truly disconnect, even just for a day. I’ve found some fantastic spots not too far from the city that are perfect for a getaway, whether
From the moment we arrived, Italy felt like a breath of fresh air after a long winter in Boston. This trip, focused on Italy, was inspired by a desire for both stunning scenery and the chance to explore a region rich in history and natural beauty. We decided to spend our time around Lake Como, a destination that promised just that, and it certainly delivered. Springtime Awakening Around the Lake Visiting in early April, we were greeted by the gentle
Milan, or Milano as the locals call it, is a city that truly captivates. As the second-largest Italian city, it offers an incredible blend of history, fashion, art, and a food scene that’s second to none in Europe. I recently spent several days exploring its avenues and hidden corners, and I’m excited to share some key insights that will help you make the most of your first visit to this Northern Italian jewel. Getting Your Bearings in Milano Milan is
Milan unfolds as a city of captivating contrasts, where centuries of history blend seamlessly with an undeniable modern energy. From the intricate spires of its magnificent cathedral to the timeless allure of Leonardo da Vinci’s most famous fresco, there’s an overwhelming sense of artistry and design that permeates every corner. It’s a place that truly lives up to its reputation as Italy’s fashion capital, but also offers so much more for any curious traveler seeking culture, beauty, and a touch
A new chapter in luxury hospitality has unfolded on the shores of Lake Como, marking a significant transformation for a beloved Italian landmark. The historic Hotel Britannia Excelsior has been reborn as The Lake Como EDITION, a testament to blending timeless elegance with contemporary luxury. This highly anticipated opening in March 2026 introduces a refined destination to one of Italy’s most iconic locales, promising an elevated experience for discerning travelers. Discovering Lake Como EDITION Stepping into The Lake Como EDITION
Italy offers so much more than just extended summer holidays. I’ve found that even a short trip, or a focused city break, can be incredibly rewarding, especially if you’re looking for unique experiences that won’t break the bank. Northern Italy, in particular, has some wonderful spots perfect for a few relaxing days, reachable by car for a quicker getaway or even by plane if you plan ahead and aren’t tied to specific holiday dates. These destinations truly surprised me with
Italy’s coastline is famously beautiful, and it’s always exciting to discover new places to explore. This year, spotting that prestigious Blue Flag is a great way to find beaches that meet high standards for water quality, safety, and environmental care. It means you can arrive knowing the water will be clean, there’s good supervision, and the facilities are top-notch. For anyone planning a summer trip to Italy in 2026, looking for these flags is a smart move for a truly
Italy isn’t just a destination; it’s a feeling, a deep dive into a culture woven with threads of history, family, and, of course, food. Coming here with my family in 2026, I wanted to go beyond the postcard views and really understand what makes this country tick. This journey through five distinct regions—Tuscany, Lombardy, Trentino-Alto Adige, Abruzzo, and Lazio—offered just that: a chance to connect with the heart of Italy through its culinary traditions and the people who cherish them.
Imagine winding roads, breathtaking mountain vistas, and charming villages that look like a storybook. While I’ve explored many corners of the globe, there’s something truly magical about the Italian Alps and the Dolomites, especially from the seat of a motorcycle. The combination of incredible scenery, exhilarating rides, and Italy’s renowned hospitality creates an unforgettable travel experience. Discovering Italy’s Mountain Majesty My recent motorcycle journey through Italy’s northern landscapes was an absolute dream. Starting in Rome, the adventure quickly moved north,
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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The Sentiero dei Limoni connects Maiori and Minori with roughly 400–800 stone steps, climbing through terraces where the sfusato amalfitano lemon has been grown for centuries. – Amalfi Outdoor Experience I was standing in the main piazza of Minori, coffee in hand, staring up at the hillside behind the Basilica di Santa Trofimena. Terraced rows of green and yellow climbed the slope in tight lines, held up by dry-stone walls that looked older than the church itself. A few minutes earlier I had asked a local shopkeeper about the lemon groves visible from town. She pointed to a narrow
I first heard about Marina del Cantone from a friend who grew up going to the Sorrento coast long before the influencers arrived. She described it as the place her family went when they wanted to escape the crowds, a little fishing village with a pebbled beach and a pasta dish so good it has its own name. I’d been to Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi, and loved them, but I also felt the strain of the crowds. So when I finally made it to Marina del Cantone, I understood exactly what she meant. Marina del Cantone is a refuge
I stood on the pebble beach at Marina del Cantone, squinting at the water. It was a shade of blue so deep and vivid that I thought my eyes were playing tricks. I pulled out my phone, lined up the shot, and watched the screen turn the color into something flat and ordinary. The water in Nerano simply does not photograph correctly. That’s not a complaint — it’s a challenge. Nerano is a tiny fishing village in the municipality of Massa Lubrense, about 70 km from Naples, tucked between the Amalfi Coast and the Sorrento Peninsula. Nerano is a
Cava de’ Tirreni has reinvented itself. It is no longer just a beach destination. It is a place where people come for the art, the history and the peace.” – Pasquale Schiattarella, local tour guide, via The New York Times I stepped out of the car in Cava de’ Tirreni and the first thing I noticed was the air. Cool, clean, carrying pine instead of salt. After days on the Amalfi Coast, where heat bounces off limestone and the sea breeze is a constant companion, the shift felt immediate. This town sits on the steep slopes of the Lattari
I stood on a terrace carved into rock so steep I had to brace myself with one hand. Below me, the Mediterranean glittered. Beside me, vines twisted out of soil that barely looked deep enough for a houseplant. In August 2025, the Food and Agriculture Organization added Amalfi’s terraced farming system to its Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems list — recognizing that these stone-walled plots let people grow food on terrain most would call impossible. – lavocedinewyork.com Emily’s Take Yes, the vineyard terraces of Furore are worth a detour — but only if you’re okay with steep roads, manual
I stood at the edge of the path in Bomerano, looking down at the terraced lemon groves and the sea stretching toward Capri, and I finally understood why they call it the Path of the Gods. The Sentiero degli Dei runs 7.8 km from Bomerano (in the municipality of Agerola) to Nocelle, a hamlet above Positano, and it’s the kind of walk that shifts something in you. Most people start from the other end, but the real magic happens when you go this way. The trail runs 7.8 km from Bomerano (Agerola) to Nocelle, mostly downhill, with views of
