#italytravel

#summervacay Spending a day immersed in Florence's museums is truly a treat! Here are two fantastic, perhaps slightly less-trafficked, options for a wonderfully enriching "museum day": Museo Marino Marini: This museum is dedicated to the works of Marino Marini, a renowned 20th-century Italian sculptor. His powerful and expressive figures, particularly his horses and riders, are captivating. It's housed in a deconsecrated church, which offers a unique and atmospheric setting for his art. If you appreciate modern sculpture and a more contemplative museum experience away from the biggest crowds, this is an excellent choice. Palazzo Medici Riccardi: Step into the heart of Medici power! This palace was the first significant Renaissance building in Florence, commissioned by Cosimo de' Medici. While it might not be as grand as the Pitti Palace, it offers an intimate glimpse into the early Medici family's private life and their immense influence. Don't miss the stunning Magi Chapel by Benozzo Gozzoli, a small room bursting with vibrant frescoes that truly bring the Renaissance to life. It's a fascinating dive into art, power, and Florentine history. Both offer a slightly different flavor of Florence's artistic and historical richness, allowing for a more intimate and less overwhelming exploration compared to some of the city's larger institutions. #ItalyTravel #Florence #MuseoMarinoMarini #PalazzoMediciRiccardi #FlorenceMuseums #ArtHistory #MediciFamily 🖼️✨

#summervacay It always puzzles me when people complain Milan is boring beyond the Last Supper and the Duomo. Are you kidding?! There's so much to see and do in and around Milan; you could easily spend two weeks and never repeat an experience! As someone who's visited Italy nine times (and would happily go twenty more!), I've decided to start a "Milan & Surroundings" series to highlight some of these beautiful, lesser-known spots. Having already covered Lake Como, Sirmione, and Villa Necchi Campiglio, this post introduces my favorite museum in Milan: the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana. Here, you'll discover masterpieces by legendary artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Titian, Botticelli, and Caravaggio. You can also explore personal items belonging to Napoleon and the enigmatic Lucrezia Borgia. Plus, for those who can't snag tickets to the original, there's even a reproduction of The Last Supper on display here! The museum was established in 1609 by Cardinal Federico Borromeo and is just a few minutes' walk from the Duomo. Over centuries, it amassed an incredible collection, though many works were unfortunately taken to France by Napoleon, some of which are now housed in the Louvre. Despite this, the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana remains an absolute must-visit for art lovers. #Milan #ItalyTravel #HiddenGem #PinacotecaAmbrosiana #ArtMuseum #LeonardoDaVinci #Raphael #Caravaggio #MilanHiddenGems #TravelItaly 🌟

#summervacay I absolutely adore the Italian countryside! And the best part about staying around Lake Garda is the incredible freedom it gives you. You can just hop in the car or on a boat and reach any charming little town you fancy! 🚗🚤 Everywhere we stopped, the atmosphere just begged us to linger. I sent a photo of the harbor to my mom, and she immediately asked, "How do you find such beautiful places?" 🤔 It made me think about what "beautiful" truly means. Beyond the stunning scenery, I think it's really about the human element – the way people here genuinely embrace and enjoy life. That's the powerful feeling travel brings. ✨ Speaking of charming towns, Limone Sul Garda is simply wonderful. Its name, meaning "lemon," is perfectly fitting, as you'll see groves of fragrant lemon trees everywhere! Pro Tip: I highly recommend visiting Limone in conjunction with Malcesine. They're just a 10-minute ferry ride apart, located on opposite shores of the lake. It makes for a perfect combined day trip! 🏞️ #SlowTravel #ItalyTravel #LimoneSulGarda #LakeGarda #ItalianCountryside #TravelItaly #Malcesine #HiddenGems #EnjoyLife ☀️

#summervacay After leaving Verona, we drove south towards Siena, eager to explore its charm and the nearby picturesque towns of Pienza and Assisi. Being in the heart of Tuscany, it was an absolute must to visit the region's famous S-curve road and the iconic Twin Cypresses – scenes straight out of a postcard! Even though these spots are incredibly popular online, arriving there in person was truly special. The rolling, verdant hillsides dotted with those classic cypress trees create an unmistakably Tuscan landscape that feels both grand and intimate. It's the kind of place where every turn offers a new, breathtaking vista. Finding the perfect vantage point for photos was an enjoyable part of the experience, capturing those serene lines and the timeless beauty that defines this region. The natural beauty here is subtle yet profound, offering a quintessential taste of the Tuscan countryside. While it might not be the dramatic, towering peaks of the Alps or the vibrant hues of some Asian landscapes, its gentle charm and classic elegance are utterly captivating. It's truly a place that allows you to breathe in the tranquility and artistry of Italy. #Tuscany #TuscanViews #ItalyTravel #Siena #Pienza #Assisi

#summervacay Lake Como isn't just beautiful, it's a sensory delight! Every single moment spent here, bathed in the sunshine, feels absolutely radiant and sparkles with a unique charm. The air itself seems to carry the fresh, invigorating scent of lemons, making every breath a refreshing experience. It’s truly a place where the light catches every ripple on the water and every leaf on the hillsides, creating a vivid, unforgettable glow. #Italy #ItalyTravel #LakeComo #LemonScented #SunshineVibes #ItalianLakes #TravelItaly 🍋✨

#summervacay I've just experienced pure bliss at Passalacqua, officially crowned "The World's 50 Best Hotels" #1! Seriously, this place is so stunning it'll take your breath away. 🤩 It's a true hidden gem on Lake Como, where you get to stay inside an 18th-century noble villa. This was easily the most divine hotel of my Lake Como trip! Opening the window to reveal the sapphire blue of the lake, you can practically smell money in the air – it's that luxurious! ✨ A Century-Old Villa Holding Time's Secrets: Imagine: the same balcony Napoleon once stood on, and a rose garden where Churchill strolled... every single brick and tile here whispers legendary tales. The antique mirrors in the rooms reflect the lake's shimmering light, making you feel like you've stepped right into a European oil painting. It's utterly magical! 🖼️ A Fairytale Dream in the Gardens: Wander from a sea of hydrangeas to ancient cedar trees, and then turn a corner to discover fragrant lemon trees. In the afternoon, you can lounge on a chair, sipping afternoon tea and watching boats glide across the lake. This kind of blissful, heavenly life? You could live it forever and never get tired! 🍋🥂 #Italy #ItalyTravel #LakeComo #Passalacqua #WorldsBestHotels #LuxuryTravel #HiddenGem

#summervacay After visiting Positano and Amalfi, and seeing that everyone's travel notes were pretty accurate – the real-life colors had much lower saturation than the stunning images you see in National Geographic – I decided to put all my expectations into Ravello. And it absolutely did not disappoint; it was incredibly worth the bit of a winding journey to get there! Along the way, I couldn't help but marvel at how some people get to enjoy the Mediterranean in such a comfortable, luxurious way. Pictures were all taken at Villa Cimbrone, which was truly breathtaking and soul-refreshing! 🏞️ Walking through its gardens and soaking in the views was pure bliss. #Ravello #AmalfiCoast #ItalyTravel #VillaCimbrone #VillaRufolo #MediterraneanLife #HiddenGem #TravelItaly #SouthernItaly #TravelMoments ✨🐱

#summervacay My journey along the Amalfi Coast was absolutely magical! Driving along the winding coastline, with dramatic cliffs on one side and the dazzling blue Mediterranean on the other, was simply breathtaking. The sound of waves crashing against the rocks, the salty sea air mingling with the sweet scent of lemon trees – every breath was pure bliss. Positano is truly a fairytale town perched on a cliffside. Its colorful houses are stacked one upon another, like an artist's palette exploded across the landscape. It's an explosion of vibrant hues, making it utterly picturesque. In Amalfi, the Cathedral of St. Andrew (Duomo di Sant'Andrea) stands majestically. Its Gothic architecture is incredibly solemn and grand, while the intricate frescoes and sculptures beautifully narrate centuries of history. Stepping inside felt like a journey back in time, a silent conversation with the past. One of the highlights was taking the elevator from Amalfi up to the hilltop platform and then hiking along the coastal path down to Atrani. Walking this trail, overlooking the magnificent coastline, was an indescribable experience. Every vista I encountered along the way felt like a precious gift from nature. The Amalfi Coast is truly a secluded dream, leaving me completely enchanted and longing to return. It's an unforgettable escape! #AmalfiCoast #ItalyTravel #Positano #Amalfi #DuomoDiSantAndrea #CoastalHike #Mediterranean #TravelItaly #DreamDestination #HiddenGem 🇮🇹✨

#summervacay Even though a Chinese couple you met suggested Sorrento was small and only worth a brief stop on the way to Capri, you wisely decided to dedicate a full day to it. And what a great decision! It also served as a much-needed day to recover from your intense sightseeing in Istanbul and Rome. 😌 And what a wonderful choice it was! Sorrento surprised and charmed you, offering a perfect blend of dramatic cliffside views and quaint, leisurely alleys. It sounds like you truly found a place to unwind and appreciate the beauty at a slower pace. #Sorrento #AmalfiCoast #ItalyTravel #CliffsideViews #ItalianCharm #SlowTravel #TravelRecovery #HiddenGems #SouthernItaly #VacationMode 🇮🇹☀️

#summervacay The beaches of Cefalù have the hottest sand I've ever stepped on. 🔥 Walking barefoot, the fluffy sand quickly sinks beneath your feet, your soles enveloped by the scorching summer heat. Then, you step further into the waves, and it's an exhilarating rush, like drinking an icy soda. 🌊 The waves here are the most vibrant I've ever seen, one after another, lifting up surfers who are leaping and riding them. 🏄♀️ Sitting by the sea, sipping a beer and just daydreaming, I finally felt like I was experiencing an Italian summer the right way. 🍻 What a perfect blend of warmth and refreshing bliss! #Cefalu #SouthernItaly #ItalianSummer #BeachLife #Sicily #SummerVibes #CoastalEscape #ItalyTravel #TravelItaly #BeachDays #Mediterranean ☀️🏖️

#summervacay Stunning to the point where you literally can't tear your eyes away – that's Palazzo Butera in Palermo! This place masterfully blends old ancient castles with cutting-edge contemporary art. The integration is seamless, yet each element, old or new, tells its own distinct story. The completeness of each room and exhibition hall is astonishing, meticulously detailed right down to the corners of the walls. The aesthetic here is so refined, it's genuinely jaw-dropping every step of the way! For those who love the fusion of old and new art in Palermo, you absolutely must visit this spot. The golden, pink, and black accents are simply incredible! Plus, you can even catch a glimpse of the sea from the rooftop! 🌊 #Palermo #PalazzoButera #Sicily #ItalyTravel #StreetArt #HiddenGems #NicheTravel #UrbanArt #TravelItaly #EuropeanCities #OldWorldCharm #ArtAndHistory #TravelInspiration #MyNicheTravelGuide 🇮🇹💖

#summervacay If you journey west from Palermo, you'll reach San Vito Lo Capo – it's like stepping into a different world of blue! This is a true hidden gem of a town on Sicily's western side. It doesn't have the same "dilapidated charm" as Palermo (though that charm has its own beauty!). It's about an 80-minute drive from Palermo and is primarily a holiday destination for local Sicilians – we only saw a few Americans hiking along the way! Here's what makes this town special: Charming Town: Blue Windows & Flowers: The town is adorned with lovely blue-framed windows and an abundance of vibrant flowers. White Houses & Cacti: With its white houses and cacti, it feels reminiscent of a Greek or Moroccan island, beautifully decorated and picturesque. Jellyfish-Clear Sea: The water here is incredibly clear, like jelly, perfect for swimming and admiring. Zingaro Nature Reserve: This stunning protected area offers the perfect combination of hiking and swimming. You can trek along the trails with breathtaking views. Cliffs & Jellyfish Sea: One side features dramatic cliffs, while the other boasts that incredible, clear "jellyfish" sea. Multiple Beaches: There are four beaches along the route, so you can switch between hiking and swimming based on your energy and mood! Recommended Stays & Eats: Baglio La Porta by Geocharme: This place is absolutely incredible! Infinity Pool: The infinity pool, restaurant, and outdoor views are simply to die for! Breakfast Quality: The breakfast is top-notch. Resort-like Units: The rooms feel like individual resort units, offering privacy and comfort. Crik & Crok: Exquisite Seafood Restaurant: A refined seafood restaurant that local colleagues recommended. Amazing Dish: There's a fresh pan-fried fish dish with pink peppercorns that is absolutely to die for! #SanVitoLoCapo #Sicily #ItalyTravel #HiddenGem #WestSicily #CoastalTown #JellyfishSea #ZingaroReserve #InfinityPool #Seafood #TravelItaly #MediterraneanVibes #ItalianIslands 🇮🇹💙

#summervacay It's both a surprise and not a surprise – generally, Europe's beautifully dilapidated old-school romantic cities tend to have some fantastic street art. Palermo is no exception! The main street art in Palermo is concentrated in two areas, both with a high density, meaning you'll find amazing pieces just a few steps away: Ballarò Neighborhood: Walk through or near the market, and you'll find plenty of art within about 10 minutes. Via Carrettieri and Vicolo Marmorai Intersection Area: This spot is about a 7-8 minute walk behind the Cathedral. These locations offer a truly authentic and moving street art experience! #Palermo #StreetArt #Sicily #ItalyTravel #HiddenGems #NicheTravel #UrbanArt

#summervacay Just a short half-hour boat ride from Venice, there's a rainbow island called Burano! 🚤 The moment I stepped onto this incredibly colorful island, my whole mood lifted! This little town isn't very big; you can probably explore it thoroughly in about two hours. It's not as crowded as Venice, and it's mostly local residents, which means you get a much better feel for their way of life and culture. 🏘️💖 Burano is one of Venice's outer islands, and the initial burst of color in this fishing village came purely from the locals! Fishermen working on the water needed to be able to spot their homes from afar, and the bright, vivid colors made the houses much easier to distinguish across the misty lagoon. This helped them find their way home in the right direction! (I thought this story was so adorable when I first heard it! 🥰) Later, the government even made a rule that adjacent houses couldn't be the same color, turning Burano into what looks like a fairytale kingdom built from LEGO blocks! 🏰 #Burano #VeniceIslands #ItalyTravel #ColorfulHouses #FairytaleIsland #HiddenGemItaly #TravelItaly #EuropeanTravel #LaceIsland #RainbowIsland #PhotoSpot #TravelInspiration #OffTheBeatenPath 🇮🇹🎨

#summervacay I almost didn't come to Venice because I heard weekends were packed, but I ended up loving it! Why? Because I experienced Venice by night on my first evening! ✨ As dusk settled, Venice became so peaceful and serene, completely devoid of the daytime chaos. The only thing was a faint odor along the canals, which I imagine would be worse in the summer. We dove into the maze-like alleys around 8:00 PM and didn't get back to our hotel until around 1:00 AM. Good news is, most public transport runs until 12:40 AM, so no need to rush. Plus, at night, the public boats aren't as crowded, and honestly, even pickpockets are probably home sleeping, so it felt safer! After 8 PM, you don't even have to pay the "head tax" to enter the island, and it's wonderfully cool and pleasant. This historic city is truly meant to be savored slowly and quietly. 😌 #Venice #LidoIsland #ItalyTravel #HiddenGem #NightInVenice #TravelItaly #Underrated #EuropeanTravel #QuietEscape #HistoricCity

#summervacay There's a gorgeous little water city just 25 minutes' drive from Venice that is seriously underrated and stunning! It's called Treviso! Most people flock straight to Venice, but if you're looking for that charming canal vibe without the massive crowds, Treviso is your answer. It's got beautiful waterways, quaint bridges, and a much more relaxed, local feel. Definitely a hidden gem waiting to be explored! ✨ #Treviso #ItalyTravel #UnderratedGem #HiddenCity #WaterCity #VeniceAlternative #TravelItaly #EuropeanTravel #ExploreItaly #DayTrip #ItalianCities #OffTheBeatenPath 🇮🇹💙

#summervacay Venice truly feels like walking through a painting — every corner, every canal, every bridge is overflowing with charm and beauty. 🛶🌅 Even with just half a day on the main island, I managed to visit two absolute icons: 📍 Piazza San Marco – grand, historic, and full of life 📍 Rialto Bridge – classic views and romantic vibes for days And let’s talk food... I had the best pasta of my Italy trip right here: Cuttlefish ink spaghetti 🖤🍝 — rich, flavorful, and totally unforgettable. Venice is the kind of place that makes you want to slow down, wander aimlessly, and just soak in the magic of getting lost among winding streets and glistening waters.✨🌊 Even with crowds, it holds a timeless beauty — definitely worth experiencing at least once in your life 💫 #VeniceItaly #DreamyDestinations #ItalyTravel #PiazzaSanMarco #RialtoBridge #CuttlefishInkPasta #VeniceMagic #Wanderlust

#summervacay Turin is often overlooked in Italian travel plans — but it absolutely shouldn't be! As the former capital of the Savoy dynasty and a cultural hotspot nestled at the foot of the Alps, Turin is a dream for history lovers, film buffs, and chocolate fans alike. ✨ Highlights at a Glance: 🎥 1. Mole Antonelliana Turin’s iconic tower (165m tall) houses the National Cinema Museum. Watch movies lying down or even sitting on a toilet (yes, really!) Take the glass elevator up for sweeping views of Turin and the Alps — sunset is the best time 🌇 🎫 Tickets: Museum €9, Panoramic elevator €14 (combo tickets available) 🛕 2. Egyptian Museum (Museo Egizio) The second largest Egyptian museum in the world, after Cairo! Packed with mummies, pharaohs, and ancient treasures 👑 Excellent multimedia guides Don’t miss the restoration lab on the second floor 🔍 👑 3. Palazzo Reale (Not elaborated in original — presumed Royal Palace with lavish interiors and art) 📝 Pro Tips: Turin is less crowded than cities like Rome or Milan, making for a relaxed visit Its streets and architecture are incredibly cinematic — perfect for photography Try the famous local hot chocolate drink Bicerin ☕️🍫 #ItalyTravel #Turin #TurinGuide #HiddenGems #CulturalTravel #EuropeTrip

#summervacay When I told my German colleagues I was vacationing in Arco near Garda See, they kept correcting me — saying Arco isn’t exactly right on the lake’s edge. And they’re right! Arco is about 5 km from the lake, and many who’ve visited Garda See multiple times don’t even know about this little spot. It’s definitely an off-the-beaten-path destination. Arco sits at the northern tip of Lake Garda, in the Trient region. But since it’s practically connected to the popular tourist town of Riva del Garda, it’s often considered part of the Garda lake area. The town is small and cozy, with a charming pedestrian street and a central square you can easily explore on foot 🚶♀️. Parking is not difficult to find either. Despite its size, Arco offers plenty of dining options — cafés, bakeries, and restaurants aplenty ☕🥖🍝. On weekends, the open-air square fills with a bit of local buzz and liveliness. We visited during the busy summer season, but even then, the town felt peaceful and relaxed. No need to book restaurants in advance, and prices are quite reasonable — a perfect spot to unwind away from the hustle and bustle. #GardaSee #HiddenGems #ArcoItaly #OffTheBeatenPath #ItalyTravel

#summervacay I visited Garda See in early July. These past couple of years, it’s become a super popular vacation spot, but to avoid the crowds, I chose to explore the quieter northern towns instead. The northern part of Garda See feels very different from the south — the lake is narrower, flanked by tall mountains on both sides 🏔️. Hidden in these mountains are some lesser-known lakes where even during peak season, you’ll find very few people. One such gem is Lake Tenno, just a short trip from Garda See. On weekends, a few Italian families come here for picnics and swimming — there are spots along the shore perfect for a refreshing dip 💧☀️. Nearby, there’s a charming medieval village called Borgo Medievale di Canale, famous enough to be ranked among Italy’s most beautiful small towns 🏘️✨. I wanted to rest there, but surprisingly, the town has almost no shops or restaurants. The only café was tiny — just 4 or 5 tables — and it was already full when we arrived. So, we completed the hiking loop and headed back to the lakeside to enjoy our coffee instead ☕😊. If you’re looking for a peaceful hiking getaway in Garda See with fewer tourists and authentic Italian charm, the north side is definitely worth a visit! #GardaSee #LakeTenno #HiddenGems #ItalyTravel #HikingAdventures

In the heart of the old town of Putignano, Italy, there is a palace that was the last residence of the Romanazzi-Carducci family. Today, this space has been transformed into an exhibition hall open to everyone, allowing visitors to experience its history freely. The furniture, wallpaper, and photographs that were in use until the very last moment remain intact, giving visitors the feeling of traveling back in time to the 1900s. If you visit Putignano, this is a must-see destination. 📍 Piazza Plebiscito 16, 70017 Putignano BA, Italia

If you're looking for a unique and special place in Matera, Italy, I highly recommend this spot. It features a blend of ancient cave dwellings and former aristocratic palaces, all arranged like an exhibition hall. Exploring the hidden treasures and discovering fascinating works of art was truly enjoyable. One minor downside is that having audio guides for the artworks would allow for a deeper appreciation of the pieces. Nevertheless, it's a great place to experience the distinctive atmosphere of Matera and admire captivating artworks. 📍Via S. Giacomo, 75100 Matera MT, Italy

This place in Matera offers a stunning view. It is the Museum of Contemporary Sculpture in Matera, Italy. The museum is surprisingly large and features a wide variety of contemporary sculptures. If you're planning to visit Matera, I highly recommend stopping by here. It was an especially unique experience to see works by local Italian artists for the first time. 📍MUSMA - Museo della Scultura Contemporanea Via S. Giacomo, 75100 Matera MT, Italy

The Matera Museum of Contemporary Sculpture, where the works of artist Gianni Dessì were particularly impressive, is housed in a well-preserved, elegant space that was once home to nobility. The museum offers a unique atmosphere, completely different from typical art galleries. The entire exhibition space, with its modern sculptures set against the backdrop of historic architecture, feels like one cohesive masterpiece. If you visit Matera, I highly recommend stopping by. 📍Via S. Giacomo, 75100 Matera MT, Italy

This viewpoint next to Chiesa di San Pietro Caveoso offers a stunning panoramic view of the canyon located in the eastern region of Matera. The scenery, featuring cliffs and ancient caves, is truly unique and unmatched. After exploring the Catholic church, San Pietro Caveoso, make sure to visit this spot to enjoy the breathtaking Matera landscape. It's also a perfect place for photography📷

Marvelous contemporary artworks at the Matera Museum of Modern Sculpture. The museum's greatest charm lies in its harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. Modern sculptures are displayed within ancient residential spaces that seem frozen in time, creating an atmosphere where the past feels alive once more. It's a must-visit for art lovers. If you're in Matera, make sure to explore the Duomo Cathedral and then walk behind it to find the museum. Highly recommended!

The artwork 'Nine Pools,' which was the last piece created by Pino Pascali before his passing, is displayed with explanatory panels next to it, making it easier to understand the artist's philosophy and the meaning behind the work. Additionally, visitors can admire the energetic lines emphasized in the paintings by artists Michele Depalma and Umberto Mastroianni. Despite living in different languages, the works of Italian artists give a sense of 'We Are the World.' If you visit Bari, I highly recommend stopping by the art museum.

The tranquil atmosphere of Matera perfectly complemented the stunning sculptures I encountered in this Italian city. Matera itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the artworks displayed within the historic old residences and ancient palaces felt truly unique. The serene ambiance of Matera allowed me to appreciate the sculptures on a deeper level. If you're interested in art, I highly recommend visiting this sculpture museum in Matera. 📍Via San Giacomo, 47-49, 75100 Matera

Italy is not only famous for pasta and gelato, but also for its captivating church art and historical paintings. If you visit Italy, I highly recommend going on a museum tour. One striking feature is the depiction of the Virgin Mary with a golden halo behind her head, emphasizing her sacredness. The painting of Saint Francis also left an impression with its dark tones and solemn expression. At the Bari Diocesan Museum, I was particularly impressed by the quality and significance of the old religious paintings I saw. Buying a ticket to view the exhibition was definitely worth it, and I highly recommend it.

Standing in front of the Basilica of Saint Nicholas in Bari, Italy, I was struck by its grand scale and profound history. As I explored the interior of this magnificent church, I couldn't help but feel a sense of humility. I was amazed to learn that the relics of Saint Nicholas, who inspired the familiar figure of Santa Claus, are housed here. This place not only offers a glimpse into deep history but also provides an opportunity to understand the devout faith of the Italian people. If you ever visit Bari, I highly recommend stopping by this remarkable site.