The small hill town once had 72 towers, built by rich families in the middle ages. Torre Grossa, the tallest of the surviving towers, was built in 1298 and is 177 feet tall. Climb the stone staircase to the top for countryside views. Palazza del Podesta, the ancient town hall, sports another of the tallest towers, Torre della Rognosa. La Collegiata...

If you have been to Italy, you know it: there are some street names you’re bound to find everywhere, from the largest of cities to the tiniest village. Just like you find a Market Square or Shop Street everywhere in England, the Belpaese is the place of Garibaldi Squares and Vittorio Emanuele II Avenues … Giuseppe Garibaldi, the hero of Italian uni...

The mosaics of a mediaeval cathedral in Sicily, built by the island's last Norman king, are set to regain their golden lustre thanks to careful restoration work and new lighting. The Monreale Cathedral, erected in 1174–89 near Palermo on the orders of King William II, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that combines Western, Islamic and Byzantine styl...

Step into the world of Cesare Pavese and explore the places that shaped his writing and worldview. This literary tour takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Langhe, with its rolling hills and vineyards that inspired much of his storytelling, and into the vibrant streets of Turin, the city that marked his literary career and personal l...

Italy, a land renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and its extraordinary culinary heritage, is a gourmand’s delight. A recent poll found that Italian cuisine is the world’s most popular ethnic food and it’s not hard to see why. However, there’s more to explore than pizza and pasta, despite how popular those iconic dishes are, with pl...

The choice of a summer destination is never an easy one, especially when time is at a premium, be it for a weekend or even just for a quick getaway from the heat that is the city. There is, however, a place not far from Rome that has more to offer to those who are looking for a perfect mix between relaxation, vivacity, authenticity and the breathta...

Nestled along the shores of Lake Como, the charming village of Varenna offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. While it may be smaller than its more famous neighbors like Bellagio and Como, Varenna has a peaceful allure and is an ideal destination for travelers seeking to escape the crowds. Whether you’re drawn to i...

Nestled in the heart of Cinque Terre lies the picturesque village of Manarola. Characterised by its pastel houses that cling to the dramatic cliff face, in the shadow of landscaped terraces which have been hewn out by humans over many centuries. The town is rich with history and vibrant with colour, here’s an insider’s guide to the best things to d...

The city of Rome is a book of stone, monuments and ancient artefacts which make up and pass on the intriguing and complex chapters of an endless chronology. A thousand-year history to browse with the many vectors of mnemonic restoration. But its museums, which along with the ancient monuments are probably the most visited tourist locations, are not...

Italy's Costa Smeralda (Emerald Coast) is one of the most beloved and appreciated tourist destinations in Sardinia and all of Italy. The reason is simple: here, you’ll find some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe and the sea is crystal clear. Moreover, in the various towns along the coast, there are plenty of things to do and see, with numerou...