Visiting Isola Bella Italy – home to the quirky and interesting Palazzo Borromeo and its spectacular gardens. Hi, I’m Clair – a travel planner and wine expert based in the little town of Stresa, on Lake Maggiore (Lago Maggiore). I’m lucky enough to have a view of Isola Bella, one of Italy’s most spectacular islands. […]
ISOLA BELLA (ITALY) – A Local’s Guide Read More »
Brera, Milan – What to see, where to eat and drink, in Milan’s hip artists’ neighborhood Brera is known as the artists’ quarter of Milan, because of its art school, historic museum-gallery, and contemporary art galleries and studios. It is lively, elegant, and quirky. Strangely enough, it’s a place that many tourists miss on their
BRERA, MILAN – A Quick Guide to the Artists’ Quarter Read More »
Teeny tiny Orta San Giulio is a real undiscovered gem. It is often overlooked by tourists – so overlooked in fact that its nickname is Cinderella. Lake Maggiore and Lake Como may be its (not by any means ugly) big sisters, but this charming village on an idyllic lake is well worth a visit. Where
ORTA SAN GIULIO – A Local’s Guide to Lake Orta’s Gem Read More »
Good To Know: This guide focuses on travelers visiting from the United States and Canada. If you’re traveling from another country, your recommendations may differ. If you’re packing up for your trip to Italy, you’re probably packing plenty of electronics – your smartphone, noise-canceling headphones, maybe a fitness tracker, or a laptop. If you’re traveling
ELECTRICITY IN ITALY – Basics for Travelers (including which adapter to bring) Read More »
Updated on January 14, 2024 I know I didn’t ‘discover’ Dozza, but I do feel like it’s still a little bit of a secret. I heard about it from a friend who had visited with a vintner from the Emilia Romagna region. She told me seeing the colorful hilltop village was worth the white-knuckle ride
DOZZA – A Mural-Filled Gem in Emilia-Romagna Read More »
You’ve booked your flight to Italy and your hotels and now it’s time to pack! I know, it can be overwhelming. Don’t worry, by the time you finish reading this article, you’ll be ready to fare la valigia (pack your suitcase) for your trip. Why listen to my advice? I’ve been traveling here since 2003
ITALY PACKING LIST – Tips and Advice Based on 20+ Years of Experience Read More »
Updated on January 9, 2024 Parking in Italy may seem more difficult than in your home country because the spaces are tight and the cars here seem to be getting bigger and bigger. It can also be stressful looking for a spot while you’re driving on a narrow one-way street with a line of cars
PARKING IN ITALY FOR VISITORS – Complete Guide & Parking Sign Translations Read More »
Visit Bologna’s essential landmarks and monuments on this 2-day itinerary. Our tips for restaurants, hotels, and getting around Bologna Italy! Bologna has always been known as Italy’s food capital, but it continues to gain even more recognition. Condé Nast Readers voted it the city with the best food – not just in Italy, but in
HOW TO SPEND 2 DAYS IN BOLOGNA – Our Itinerary for a Quick Visit to Italy’s Food Capital Read More »
You’ve seen Michelangelo’s David, walked across the Ponte Vecchio, marveled at the art in the Uffizi, and filled your belly with bistecca fiorentina and gelato during your time in Florence. Now, it’s time to move on to the home of the Palio, the Torre del Mangia, and ricciarelli! So, fasten your seatbelt (or buy your
BEST WAY TO GET FROM FLORENCE TO SIENA + 5 Other Options Read More »
Are you a car enthusiast on your way to Bella Italia? Are you trying to decide if you should visit a car museum in Italy during your trip? Car lovers shouldn’t miss visiting at least one (or two, or three…) of these incredible car museums in Italy! This isn’t a complete list, there’s a museum
TOP 10 CAR MUSEUMS IN ITALY BY INTEREST – Supercars, History, and Factory Tours Read More »
