Italy

venezia

Venice, Italy

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 Also known as La Serenissima for its  ‘serene’ atmosphere, Venice is unique in its style and architecture. It will enchant you by simply walking around the canals and crossing the city’s bridges. Here’s my top recommendations to get the most out of the city and its surroundings.


BEST BAR

Treat yourself and mingle with the locals at Harry’s bar for an all time classic – Italian Bellini drink. A historical bar which was a favourite of E. Hemingway.

 

BEST RESTAURANTS

Cantina Do Spade – best pick for typical Venetian dishes in a friendly atmosphere in the centre of the city. The reason why I particularly recommend this place is because it is more than just a ‘restaurant’. Italians use the word osteria: a place often visited by locals going far from just eating simple food and sipping house-wines. It is a recreational place in which to socialise, play cards and spend a pleasant evening. Try the “frittura mista” and the zucchini filled with cod (aka baccalà mantecato).

VENETIAN TAVERN

What I love about Italy (beside the good weather and people) is their high standards for food. There is no better place to dine than an Italian Tavern. Try the meat branzino-agnolotti cooked with dry Martini or the Tagliatelle with prawns, zucchini and prosecco at Taverna al Remer (steps away from Rialto bridge). Full Italian menu: here.

 

TRY BIGOLI

An excellent dish of quality – bigoli is a traditional pasta from the Northern region of Veneto (IT). A thicker spaghetti slightly lighter and denser than most pasta. Due to its rough texture it is simply perfect for any sauce to cling onto. Something you don’t find (or try) often: worth a go!

TRY CICCHETTI

Cantine del Vino gia’ Schiavi – enjoy a glass of wine with ‘cicchetti’: the Venetian version of Spanish tapas. Go for an assorted selection of those with meat, fish, fried fish and vegetables (good and cheap alternative as dinner option). The place itself and its location are inviting enough already but the food, wine and atmosphere will do the rest to leave you with a proper Venetian experience.

RELAX

Campo Erberia – once you have passed the iconic Rialto bridge, enjoy a spectacular view of the Grand Canal from this local spot. From this same place you can experience the acqua alta phenomenon: as the water level rises towards the late afternoon you can witness the campo(field) below slowly disappearing, creating a beautiful scenario. It almost seems like the surrounding buildings sink. (Watch your feet: you might get wet!).


Image by Filippo Murano

YOUR SUNSET SPOT

Zattere – stretching alongside the Giudecca canal you can enjoy a pleasant walk around Zattere area. On a clear day you can witness a spectacular sunset whilst enjoying an italian special: aperol spritz or a tasty Italian gelato (because, why not?!?). I recommend the historic ice-cream producer Gelati Nico. Try the ‘Gianduiotto‘ flavour: delicious!

 

DAY TRIP – (Murano)

Escape the crowded island of Venice to explore and discover the less touristy island of Murano – basically a little version of Venice but less busy (cheaper!), colourful and equally beautiful. Murano is known for its finest glass production so I would strongly recommend visiting a few manufacturers in town as well as walking through and witnessing a few handicraft artisans in action. Avoid the expensive water taxi (or gondolas) and find out time tables and departure points here.

Where to stay

 Whilst Venice has so much to offer your trip would not be complete without experiencing the true Italian Dolce Vita in the surrounding Northern Italian countryside. 50-mins drive from Venice, treat yourself to a stay in bespoke built Villa with pool and idyllic scenic views.

Above all, the host is an extremely welcoming lady with detailed knowledge of the best local places which will allow you to get so much more out of your stay.

More detail and booking here.

Closest Airport

Venice Marco Polo – 30 mins away to Venice city centre. Alternatively try the Venice-Treviso Airport – 45 mins away to Venice. Check out flights to Venice with Ryanair.

How to get around (Airport service)

Professional and reliable taxi service: Stefano: +39 3286613285 (Whatsapp)

 

 

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Milan, Italy

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Milan: financial and fashion heart of Italy, only a few hours drive to Switzerland, France and Germany. Out of all Italian cities, it is not my favourite but still worth a week-end visit to experience its unique designer boutiques, finest restaurants and glamorous lifestyle.

Milan in TWO DAYS

DAY 1

START OFF with a visit to the DUOMO Cathedral: monumental and iconic where to admire Milan’s skyline from above. Tickets are about 6 euros/pp. When at the top the view is pretty surreal due to the dozens of gargoyles, flying butresses and other statues all scattered around. Look carefully and you will also able to spot the golden statue of the Madonnina (Virgin of Milan) which also signs the highest point of the city.

CONTINUE your visit to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, one of the world’s most ancient (and glamorous) shopping malls. What makes it peculiar are the astonishing glass roofs and a central glass dome and its mosaic walls depicting the coat of arms of Florence, Rome, Milan and Turin.

END your day walking alongside the Navigli canals at sunset to enjoy a classic italian aperitivo in one of the multiple fashionable bars. If you head down between 7pm -9pm with a set price of 12 euros you’ll be getting a drink and all you can eat platters of regional nibbles.

NIGHTLIFE, The Navigli area is undoubtedly the most economic and vibrant part of the city populated with locals Milanesi (residents of Milan). So after enjoying an aperitivo proceed your walk to Naviglio Grande and back to Naviglio Pavese for more bars and clubs.

DAY 2

With perhaps a sore head I would recommend a more cultural and historical visit to appreciate Leonardo da Vinci‘s masterpiece: The Last Supper. This is undoubtedly something local citizens and indeed Italians are very proud of. For this, given the popularity, I recommend getting tickets (10 euros pp) 2-3 weeks in advance.


BEST GELATO

Gelateria della musica – if you are looking for the perfect gelato, this place it the one! A sublime variety of flavoured ice-creams. Find the nearest one here.


AUTHENTIC FOOD

Trattatoria All’antica – as the name suggests ‘the old way’, this restaurant will serve you traditionally cooked dishes at a reasonable price.

BEST RISOTTO

Trattoria Masuelli S. Marco – you cannot leave Milan without trying an authentic Risotto alla Milanese (they are the expert on that!) or one of their broths. This trattoria is one of the fewest places which adopts traditional recipes; one of them includes preparing a broth with five different types of meat. Meat eaters: THIS IS IT!

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Rome and Vatican, Italy

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If you have never been to Rome before expect to truly fall in love with its unrivaled history, culture and character. No matter where you go or if you opt out of visiting local museums, the beauty of this city lies in the fact that it is an open museum in itself. Ancient history meets modern-day society with countless monuments to the might of the Roman Empire dispersed among chic shops and refined restaurants. Often referred to by locals as RHome, La Dolce Vita in the Eternal City will delight all your senses and leave you enchanted.

Where to stay

Upgrade your stay in Rome and do it in style by staying in an historical Atelier in the heart of the city (5mins walk to the Spanish Steps). Conveniently located by all major sights in Rome: hassle free. This is your ideal location that enables you to walk anywhere you want to go. Apply this DISCOUNT credit  here for your stay and check this place out and book it by clicking on the image above.

DO what the Romans do

See the Pope! Attend the Papal Audiences on Wednesdays at St Peter’s Sq at 10AM. Recommending to get there before 8AM to reserve a good seat.

EAT like the Romans eat

Eat with the locals and avoid those chain/commercial ‘restaurants’. Instead look for those ‘trattoria’ signs to delight yourself with some authentic family owned, casual, rustic neighbourhood restaurants. Best area for the best traditional trattorias are away from the city centre. Head to the charming Trastevere  area by the Vatican City. if you like meat try fettucine with wild boar ragu or For fish go for fettucine with mussels. My TOP recommendation is Trattoria Da Enzo. A real gastronomical treat as they carefully select and pick the best ingredients from the best producers/farmers around the country.

Where to get that GELATO

Cannot go wrong with a century old traditional Italian gelateria, Giolitti. A 7 minutes walk from Trevi Fountain. Treat yourself with triple (or more) flavoured ice-creams. Pick the special cone for a proper treat. You will be amazed by the assortments they have also for handmade fresh desserts and cakes.

Best PIZZA in Rome

Thin, crispy, light and delicious. Your best call for pizza in the city centre is at La Montecarlo, few steps away from Piazza Navona square.

 

Hire a local tour guide

If you want to make the most of your visit treat yourself to a personalised tour with ExploroTour. This will enrich your experience to an extend far beyond what you would otherwise glean from wandering around the ancient Empire.

Top 3 panoramic views

Top of the Spanish Steps

Climb to the top of the Spanish Steps. As you have the Church in front of you turn left as if you were to go down the road and you will see on the left hand side an entrance to a local bar/restaurant. From that balcony you will appreciate an AMAZING view of the city for some great sunrise/sunsets.

Pincio

Pincio – this is one of your unmissable spots in Rome, daily frequented by locals for romantic walks and stunning sunsets. It would be a mistake to skip it as one of the best places to realise how monumental and imperial this city is.

Basilica’s dome

Top your visit by reaching the top of the Vatican City’s St. Peter’s Basilica (yes, the big Vatican Dome!): one of the holiest Catholic temples. However please note it is a bit tricky to get to the top due to the narrow and spiral staircase at the end (not ideal if you’re claustrophobic!) but totally worth it if you can brave it.

Colosseum Special

TIP: when visiting the Colosseum make sure to buy tickets from the OFFICIAL Italian website, CoopCulture, that offers the entry to both the amphitheater and other MUST-SEE places, Foro Romano and Palatino. Additionally the ticket from CoopCulture includes FREE entrance to some local exhibitions (these vary across the year). All for 12 EUR. Great value for money.

Make sure to take a walk ALL around this magnificient masterpiece (still standing!) and to visit it at night for a SURREAL night-version experience.

2-DAY Itinerary

DAY 1

Spanish Steps

Trevi Fountain

Pantheon

Piazza Navona

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Sistine Chapel

Vatican Gardens

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Trastevere – nightlife and dining area

DAY 2

Colosseum

Roman Forum

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Piazza Venezia

Pincio Terrace

 

Did you know…

The Pope’s army is one of the oldest (and finest) one in the world. The guards you will see around Vatican City are known as Swiss-guards. To apply for it you must be a Swiss male, younger than 30, at least 5,8 inch tall, have a diploma, be Catholic 9of course) and have already completed military training with merits.

 

GO PRO

As I have already gone through the above journey and traveled around South America, if you require further specialised support on an itinerary and extra tips and discount feel free to contact me directly.

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Sicily, Italy

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Diverse and gorgeous island of the Mediterranean. Having been colonised by over 14 different civilisation, Sicily is your best call to explore and learn from several Mediterranean cultures and mythological beliefs. In fact Sicily is also known as land of Cyclopes, often praised and mentioned by Italian and Greek poets. You will be surprised and amazed on how much there is to explore and see. Below are my top city recommendations and must-eat dishes whilst there.

Where to land

Catania – Make a spectacular entry to the island and land in Catania, overlooking the majestic volcano, Etna (active). Many airlines land/depart to/from here. My favourite being Norwegian due to its comfortable planes at a very competitive (if not unbeatable price!).

Palermo – Start by exploring the western coast of Sicily and enjoy some of the most beautiful beaches, gulfs and landscapes. Given a strong influence and dominance of Arabs and Normans, the architecture is predominantly Arab-Norman, giving it an extra uniqueness touch to this city.

How to get around

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If you wish to travel between East and West coast of Sicily (ie Catania-Palermo) and do not want to rent a car, I strongly advise to avoid the train as it takes a very long time and get on a bus instead.  Please also note that Sicily is not equipped with good taxi services (not even in major cities), and buses or trains are not always reliable (sad but true reality). I have lived in this beautiful country most of my life (19 years) so it is a genuine local advice I give: rent a car if you can!

EAST COAST

Taormina

Spectacularly located on the side of a mountain, Taormina is one of Sicily’s most popular summer destinations to experience and enjoy a taste of Sicilian dolce vita.It is also home of UNESCO world heritage Greek’s masterpiece from the 3rd century BC: The Teatro Antico. This was originally born to accommodate dramatic performances or musical, was transformed during the Roman times to host games and gladiator battles. Now? It hosts concerts and movie premieres. Imagine watching a movie here at sunset. Events tickets at teatrogrecotaormina

Belvedere and Isola Bella 

An elegant and fashionable terrace, which recently seen hosting G7 leaders is commonly used as a meeting point for locals before meandering up and down Taormina’s Corso (main street characterised by its petite arts and crafts boutiques and designer fashion outlets). This is your perfect spot fro watching the sun as it disappears behind the mighty volcano, Etna against the backdrop of sicilian musicians playing in the Piazza.

Another lesser known panoramic view point is the Piazza IX Aprile where best appreciate idyllic beauty of Isola Bella (beautiful island) as you make your way down to the water front. Part of the attraction of the island draws from it only being accessible by foot at low tide. The more adventurous among you can still swim to the island during high tide (from 7-8pm). Also note that you can visit the inner island and climb it to the top whilst exploring its flora and fauna by paying a nominal fee of 3euros.

BEST SEAFOOD WITH A VIEW

Al Saraceno – Treat yourself and end your evening watching the sun setting over the Volcano, Etna whilst enjoying some of the best local dishes of the island.

Other Restaurants

Tiramisu Taormina – fish, meat and pizza dishes

Try granita witch brioche

BAM BAR (a favourite bar among celebrities and locals) – if you like ice-cream (who doesn’t) this is a must-eat Sicilian specialty. However it is not an ice-cream: it is like a semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water and various organic flavorings/fruits. Served with a hot brioche and whipped cream on top (depending on the flavour you go for). My favourite combo is: Strawberry and lemon. Bam Bar Taormina is your BEST CALL out to try this glorious breakfast-meal as they offer a wide variety of flavours.

DAY TRIP

Caltagirone, Agrigento and Acitrezza

Hire a car and visit nearby places which will impress you for their historical and natural beauty.  I recommend driving from Catania to Caltagirone, reknown for its finest ceramic. If you are looking for an unique souvenir THIS is the place to get it from.

Scala dei Turchi and Agrigento

Among the many stairways you know, this is definitely one of the most unusual. This is where locals go to sunbathe from the nearby city of Agrigento. They come here to chill and wait for the sunset on surprisingly smooth and ‘soft’ rocks: just like I did. Only 15′ mins drive from ‘Valley of the Temples’/Agrigento City.

 ENTRANCE

Free-access stairs from Lido Restaurant Scala dei Turchi. This is your easiest access point to the beach.

BAR

Lounge Beach (try their amazing cocktails and take them to the rocks for the perfect moment)

EAT

IlMediterraneo – for amazing an pizza or delicious sword and tuna fish steaks. Ask for medium rare.

Temples Valley

VISIT A VOLCANO

You cannot go to this side of Sicily and not pay a visit to the might lady, Etna. Go PRO and hike all the way up to the summit (3k meters). Start the experience from Crateri Silvestri and then opt to either walk around dead craters in the area or get cable cars all the way to the top from the ticket office (the only one there by the parking space). Alternatively explore a variety of tailored made tours here.

Acitrezza

 

VISIT NEARBY ISLANDS