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
Dreaming of Italy? I know I always am! It’s a country that has endlessly inspired travelers for centuries, conjuring images of sun-drenched landscapes, rich history, and, of course, incredible food. While I love diving into travel guides, there’s something truly magical about experiencing a place through stories. Books set in Italy can offer a unique perspective, transporting you to different eras and regions without ever leaving your armchair. On my recent trip, I found that these literary connections deeply enriched
Italy has always felt like a country of endless discovery, a place where beauty unfolds around every corner, from grand, iconic landmarks to tiny, forgotten villages. After sharing an itinerary of our family trip with my readers, I realized just how much ground we’d covered and how many distinct experiences we’d managed to weave into one memorable journey. This country truly offers something for everyone, and I found myself constantly reaching for my camera, eager to capture the atmosphere of
Italy conjures images of ancient ruins, rolling vineyards, and the sweet sound of opera. While the postcard-perfect visions of Rome, Venice, and Florence are undeniably alluring, our last trip there showed me the magic that can be found off the beaten path. Escaping the crowds of the major hubs offers a chance to truly connect with the local rhythm of life. For a more relaxed and authentic Italian adventure, I’ve found that delving into the smaller towns can reveal an
Italy is a country overflowing with remarkable destinations, many of which are recognized for their outstanding value to humanity. While Rome, Florence, and Venice often steal the spotlight, I’ve discovered that stepping off the beaten path reveals even more profound beauty and history. This year, I was eager to explore some of Italy’s lesser-known UNESCO World Heritage sites, places that offer a truly authentic and unforgettable experience, away from the biggest crowds. Spectacular Mountain Vistas The Majestic Dolomites My journey
Planning a holiday in Italy this December offers a magical blend of festive charm and stunning winter landscapes. From snow-kissed mountains perfect for skiing to historic cities aglow with Christmas lights, Italy presents a diverse range of experiences for travelers of all ages. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of winter sports or the warmth of seasonal markets, December in Italy promises an unforgettable escape. Here’s a look at some of the best places to explore during this special time
Easter in Italy, or Pasqua, offers such a profound connection to tradition, blending solemn religious observances with vibrant springtime celebrations. It’s a time when the country truly comes alive, showcasing centuries-old rituals alongside joyful gatherings. If you’re considering a visit in 2026, knowing when Easter falls is key. In 2026, Easter Sunday is on April 12th, with Holy Week running from April 5th to April 12th, leading into the beloved Pasquetta, or Easter Monday, a public holiday perfect for enjoying
Italy is a treasure trove of history and art, and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence stands as a monumental testament to this. It’s a place where centuries of artistic genius converge, offering an unparalleled journey through the Renaissance and beyond. I love that the scaffolding is finally gone from the courtyard; Florence’s skyline feels so much more complete without it. Exploring the Uffizi The Uffizi building itself has a fascinating origin story. It was originally conceived in 1560 by Cosimo
I’m standing in Piazza del Duomo in Florence, watching a mechanical dove zip along a wire toward a cart piled high with fireworks. The crowd gasps, then cheers as the cart erupts in a controlled explosion of smoke and color. This is the Scoppio del Carro, a tradition that dates back to the First Crusade, and it’s one of the most visually dramatic Easter events in Italy. Around 15,000 people gather in the square each year to watch, according to
Italy is packed with incredible destinations, but sometimes the most unique experiences lie just a little off the beaten path. Today, I want to share a place that feels like stepping back in time, a country within a country. It’s the Republic of San Marino, the world’s fifth smallest nation and one of Europe’s oldest. It’s completely surrounded by Italy, nestled between the Emilia-Romagna and Marche regions. I’ve found that many travelers overlook this gem, but it offers a truly
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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
