Ciao! I’m Marica, a native of Le Marche, Italy. My region is one of incredible beauty, tranquility, delicious food, and outdoor activities. When considering a holiday in Italy, many people – Italians included – don’t even consider coming to Le Marche. Travelers looking for a beach vacation choose Puglia, those interested in visiting small towns …
If you’ve seen a brochure or website for Lake Garda, chances are you’ve seen a photo of Sirmione, a picturesque town with a castle jutting out of the lake waters. Not only is Sirmione known for its castle (Scaliger Castle, or Castello Scaligero), it’s also worth visiting for its: unique view of Lake Garda healing …
Sirmione, Lake Garda – Your 2023 Complete Guide (+ Map & Tips!) Read More »
Florence can be HOT in the summer, so it’s nice to take a break and head to the beach. Are you ready to cool off and recharge but you’re not sure where to go? You’ve got plenty of options, depending on what type of beach experience you’re looking for and whether or not you have …
The 10 Best Beaches Near Florence Italy (+ Map, Transport, & a Local’s Tips) Read More »
Whether it’s your first time driving in Italy, or you’re back for your annual vacation, it’s always helpful to read about Italian road rules and norms so that you’re prepared to drive on Italian roads, with Italian drivers. I’ve been driving here since 2003 – as a travel guide, tourist, and resident. I’m a licensed …
Driving in Italy – 2023 Detailed Guide for Visitors Read More »
Lucca Italy – a charming, relaxing city inside medieval walls. When to visit, what to see, helpful tips, and map. Lucca is famous for its wide walls, topped with greenery, and a cycling and hiking path that’s visited by locals daily. Good To Know: Lucca was named a UNESCO World Heritage site for its …
Lucca Italy – Your 2023 Guide to the Walled City Read More »
You’ve got your International Driving Permit, your rental car is booked… now what? It’s time to learn the Italian road signs! Some may look similar to signs from home, while others may leave you scratching your head. Based on my time driving here as a cycling guide, trip planner, resident, and licensed driver, I feel …
Italian Road Signs – Guide for Visitors + Printable Booklet Read More »
Buongiorno – it’s Clair! Venice is my favorite city in Italy. I’ve been traveling to Venice for years, both on my own and accompanying visitors from other countries. It always amazes me that there’s something new to see and some new corner to discover each time I visit. Last year, I was lucky enough – …
Our family loves visiting Venice in winter *, and we often bring hesitant (and later, grateful) visiting family and friends along with us. Winter in Venice is everything it isn’t during the rest of the year – quiet, calm, peaceful. It’s romantic (always!) and the foggy mornings and twinkling lights in the evening make for …
Venice in Winter – All the Details on Our Favorite Time to Visit Read More »
Venice can be crowded. And hot. Packed streets, busy vaporetti (water buses), and long lines. But you don’t have to see Venice that way. Come to Venice at night! Venice at night is peaceful and dramatic. It’s quiet, the day-trippers are gone, and Venetians have taken back their city. It’s an enchanting time to see …
Venice at Night – 17 Things to Do in La Serenissima Read More »
When you think of Italian Lakes, you probably immediately picture the Italian Lakes District in Northern Italy and its famous lakes – Lake Como, Lake Maggiore, Lake Garda, Lake Maggiore, Lake Iseo, and Lake Orta. While those lakes are gorgeous and definitely worth a visit, Italy is home to over 1500 lakes, and many of …
14 Gorgeous Italian Lakes – Why, When, and How to Visit Them (+ Map) Read More »
