Italy

The Visitor’s Guide to the Venetian Lagoon

The only thing better than visiting Venice is visiting the Venetian Lagoon, especially if you’re not looking for a typically touristy Italian experience. Everyone goes to Venice, but not everyone makes it off the beaten track – and how are you supposed to stumble across hidden Venetian gems that way? A walking tour is the perfect answer. Ferries and your own two feet will whisk you from cathedrals with bell towers just begging to be climbed to museums filled with

Gaeta

Gaeta Shore Excursions

Located on the coast of central Italy overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, the seaside resort of Gaeta has long been a popular holiday destination for Italian families. Its small harbour attracts relatively few cruise ships compared with the better-known ports of Civitavecchia (Rome) to the north and Naples to the south. Passengers whose itinerary does include Gaeta, however, are in for a treat as this former Roman fortress town is a real hidden gem of the European cruise circuit.

Crotone Shore Excursions

Located right in the south of Italy, the historic port of Crotone has a colourful history dating back to 710 BC when it was founded by the ancient Greeks. It is one of the oldest Greek colonies in a region filled with reminders of the Magna Grecia period, not only in terms of its architecture but also in its culture and cuisine. Indeed the Greeks were responsible for establishing vineyards and olive groves in the region, traditions which have stood the test of time considering the exceptional quality of locally produced olive oil and Cirò wines.

Milán

Hostelling in Style: Milan for the New Generation Traveller

Hostelling in Style: Milan for the New Generation Traveller Fashion, food, football. These three words rule in Italian culture, especially in Milan. But with precious time to waste and faced with an incredible number of options, how do you know what to do, and most importantly where to stay? Luckily, there’s a new kid on the hostel block. The modern traveller is looking for more than just a holiday: they’re looking for an authentic experience to share with a community of

Agrigento

Agrigento (Sicily) Shore Excursions

Some 2500 years ago on the south-west coast of Sicily there existed a vast city inhabited by more than half a million people. Originally known as Akragas, this city was one of the highlights of Ancient Greece which lies just south of the modern-day city of Agrigento. Today this magnificent World Heritage Site is better known as the Valley of the Temples and is the main shore excursion for cruise ship visitors arriving in the nearby port of Porto Empedocle. Other popular attractions include the Turkish Steps and Roman Villa which are located just a short ride to the west of the port near Realmonte.

Springtime Sensations, Part III: Artichokes

Artichokes get a raw deal. Odd-looking and inaccessible, they’re like the armadillo of the vegetable world. Personally, though, they’re among my favourite foods. Their delicate yet robust flavour is impossible to describe but addictively moreish – a combination of bitter and nutty, it only requires a dash of good olive oil to bring it out into the open. What’s more, there’s a wealth of history and heritage lying behind the humble choke. For such an unassuming vegetable, they have a

Milan: A Footie Fan’s Paradise

Looking to explore a different side to Milan? If you know your sport, then forget the big sunglasses and high heels; we’re talking stadium tours and footie studs. Milan is home to two of the biggest clubs in Europe: AC and Inter, and here is how you can visit one of the busiest homes of the Beautiful Game. See San Siro If you can’t think of anything better than a walk around an Italian football stadium, then you simply have

Mailand

The Essential Milan Travel Guide

Ah, Milano! While the capital city of Lombardy may not be at the top of most Italophiles’ bucket list, it really should be. Whether you’re looking to spice up your wardrobe, go wild at a football game or treat your ears to an opera, Milan’s sights and sounds never fail to impress culture vultures, sports fanatics, foodies and party animals. If you’re ready to wave buon giorno to Italy’s hub of fashion and business, say grazie to The Culture Trip,

Venetië

A Walking Tour of Mestre, Venice

Who doesn’t think of glitz, glamour and romance when they think of Venice, the jewel in Italy’s crown? Stunningly beautiful it may be, as well as famous for its incredible history, unique layout and celebrity visitors, but that doesn’t mean that this place is out of reach for the regular, more budget-conscious traveller. In fact, if you choose your accommodation wisely and opt to stay in the neighbouring but very accessible Mestre, you are in for a real treat at

Let Italy Inspire You: Our Transfer from Bari to Naples

Our airport transfer from Bari to Naples cuts straight across the breadth of Italy, giving a fascinating tour from east to west. The three hours of the journey fly by as the panorama of southern Italy unfolds: medieval fortresses, Roman ruins, vineyards zig-zagging the gentle slopes, and above all that the unmistakeable turquoise arc of the Italian sky. This route guide outlines just some of the fascinating locations situated on the road from Bari to Naples. Let holiday inspiration commence!

Ravenna

Ravenna Shore Excursions

Lying in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy some 125km south of Venice, the city of Ravenna is relatively unknown on the Italian cultural circuit yet it is home to numerous monuments which appear on the UNESCO World Heritage List. These attractions have been recognised for their exquisite mosaics which date back to the 5th century and are representative of the Roman, Arian, and Byzantine civilizations which settled in the region.

Portofino

Portofino Shore Excursions

Tucked away in a secluded harbour on the Italian Riviera is the stunning port of Portofino which is one of Europe’s most desirable destinations within the superyacht community. Since the 1950s this tiny fishing village which is overlooked by colourful houses built on the surrounding cliffs has been a popular getaway for well known celebrities. Today it retains that air of exclusivity with prices to match ensuring that less wealthy visitors don’t hang around for long after admiring the beauty of the place.

Savona Shore Excursions

Located on the Ligurian coast of Italy between Monaco and Genoa, Savona has served as an important port since it was occupied by the Romans in 180 BC. During the Middle Ages it was regarded as a significant maritime power before being defeated by the Genoese in the early 16th century.