The Italian Tour
With rolling hills, sparkling seas and an abundance of fresh food worth dreaming of, Italy is a land you can return to on repeat, finding hidden gems every time. Whether by plane, train, or automobile, travelling to each corner of the country is the best way to see the varied and rich culture it has to offer. Here, we explore some of the most coveted spots the Bel Paese owns.
Venture to Venice
We start at the (almost) top. The floating city feels like a dream, backlit by stunning surrounding oceans and basking in the Italian sun. Intriguing canals and alleys draw the eye to hidden paths, winding their way past tiny ristorantes and hand-crafted souvenir shops.
These visits will have to wait - as you approach the island via bus or boat, the thought of gondolas, bridges and gelato fill your mind. You're already plotting your route through this mesmerising landscape, on foot or by water, of course. The sun masks your face in warmth and you breathe in the fresh, sea-breezy air, ready to call Venice your home for this next short chapter.
The day and evening and night all blend into one in Venice. In an array of striped T-shirts, intricate Venetian masks and Aperol Spritz-laden tables, you'll never be spoilt for choice in this colourful setting.
The Hot Spots
🍴To eat: Antico Martini
🥂 To drink: Il Mercante
🏷️ To shop: Galleria Barcella
🏠 To stay: The Gritti Palace
Settle in Sorrento
Nestled within the Bay of Naples, the beautiful town of Sorrento is known for its moreish food scene and cosy, tucked-away streets. You'll need a trusted pair of shoes for this escape - the slalomed roads and walkways will make those sweet treats at the top of the hill more rewarding than ever. Overlooked by the impressive outline of Mount Vesuvius, and with the home of pizza, Naples, just across the water, Sorrento is more than a one-stop visit. In fact, you'll never want to leave.
Heaps of history are founded in the must-see Pompeii and Herculaneum, perfect for history lovers and non-history lovers alike. Those shoes will come in handy when you walk to the top of the volcano. Island day trips are a must, sailing to the beach-brushed shores of Ischia and the forever fashionable Capri. The zesty, powerpunch hit of limoncello will become a daily necessity, accompanying a picture-perfect dinner set along the sea.
Wind your way through the narrow streets, finding treasures along the way and awakening your senses with the true essence of Italy. Don't forget to look up - there's something special to be found in every corner.
The Hot Spots
🍴 To eat: Il Buco
🥂 To drink: Gold Sky Bar
🏷️ To shop: Corso Italia
🏠 To stay: Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria
Belong in Bari
Known as the 'Gateway to the East' due to its long tradition of trade, the capital of Apulia, Bari, is rich in history and culture. With every step you'll be surrounded by intriguing architecture, steeped in historical tales just waiting to be told. The famous Bari promenade overlooks the clear sea and the unique charm of the nearby landscape, so take a few moments to take this in.
Today, this dynamic city still holds memories of its seafaring exploits of the Middle Ages, as well as its precious monuments and striking churches. Carve out time in your schedule for the Caves of Castellana, where stalactites, stalagmites and precious crystals line the labyrinth of underground caves. It truly is a sight that needs to be seen to be believed.
In the heel of the boot holds a plethora of must-see havens. Lose yourself in the maze of enticing streets and return each day to find something new, something evoking, and something unforgettable.