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Whatever kind of holiday you are looking for, Sicily will surely satisfy your expectations. This large island is one of the most beautiful Italian regions and its wonderful secrets are countless. Art, architecture, centuries of precious history, excellent local cuisine and incredible natural wonders mix together to create a lovely paradise on earth with Caribbean features. It is out of question that the best time to visit Sicily is summer! There is no better time to enjoy the sun, the pleasant temperatures and to fully appreciate the breathtaking views offered by this island. Also, summer allows you to visit some of the most charming beaches located along the coast, which are one's prettier than another. Actually, a beach holiday in Sicily guarantees an unforgettable experience that the enchanting places can easily turn into a daydream. But how can you choose which to see among all the beaches in Sicily? Don't worry: here is a list of the eight beaches to see at all costs in Sicily to make you fall in love with the most beautiful spots during the trip! 1. Isola dei Conigli The most famous island of the Pelagie archipelago has been awarded for having the most beautiful beach in the world. The name of this dreamy place, "Rabbit island", derives from an ancient Arabic word meaning "connection", which emphasizes its strategic position. Located near Lampedusa, the coast is rocky and the colors of its waters shine in an incredible way. Immerse yourself in this postcard-like scenery and watch out for the Caretta Caretta sea turtle, an animal species living in this area! Are you looking for a holiday home near Favignana? Choose Casa Marsala! 2. Isola Bella The islet in front of Taormina is one of its most fascinating corners, especially if admired from above. Connected to the mainland with a short stretch of beach, Isola Bella offers a wonderful shore of white pebbles and crystal clear waters. If you love snorkeling, this is the place for you! Are you looking for a holiday home in Taormina? Choose Villa La Bohème! 3. Cala Rossa Another pearl of the island of Favignana is the famous Cala Rossa, presenting splendid cliffs and rocky inlets. The Mediterranean scrub colors this Polynesian wonderland, where sea is azure and waters are always calm. The beach can be reached by sea or by a steep path. Although it is quite difficult and tiring to travel, the panorama waiting for you at the end of this road will repay all your efforts. Are you looking for a holiday home near Favignana? Choose Villa Arangea! 4. Scala dei Turchi If you are travelling Western Sicily, you can't skip a stop on the famous beach of Scala dei Turchi! This is one of the most beautiful places in the entire region and is found near Realmonte and Porto Empedocle. Scala dei Turchi is a place that simply leaves you speechless: its famous white cliffs rising in front of the sea create a unique contrast with the turquoise waters. The extraordinary beach will turn your day at the sea into a fabulous experience! Are you looking for a holiday home near this beach? Choose Villa Agorà! 5. Beach of Calamosche This fascinating beach is situated between Vendicari and Noto and it is included in a Nature Reserve inhabited by a rich flora and fauna. A large beach of almost 200 meters stretches between two splendid headlands, which hide wonderful caves and other natural beauties. It is impossible to resist the temptation to dive into the transparent waters of the colorful sea! Are you looking for a holiday home near this beach? Choose Villa Vendicari! 6. Tonnara di Scopello The Tonnara di Scopello is one of the most famous places near San Vito Lo Capo, a locality in Western Sicily. The ancient "Tonnara" building overlooks a small beach,which has fortunately opened to the public after years of privatization. The view is majestic: the stacks, the two medieval towers overlooking the sea and the splendid colors of the water make Scopello a place you cannot miss! Are you looking for a holiday home in San Vito Lo Capo? Choose Villa Bellini! 7. Bay of Bue Marino Still in San Vito Lo Capo, there is a beach of white pebbles surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation. The turquoise waters of the bay of Bue Marino meet reddish rocks and creating a romantic scenario. The contrasts made with the mountains rising in the background and the beautiful colors of the landscape leave every visitor breathless. Are you looking for a holiday home in San Vito Lo Capo? Choose Villa Afrodite ! 8. Pollara Beach We could not forget to include the stunning beach of Pollara in our ranking! This bay is located on the island of Salina and its volcanic origin gives it a timeless and unique charm. The transparent sea waters amazingly changes color according to the daylight and the beach is made of splendid black pebbles. Don't miss it! © Alice Pilastri

Gallipoli is a gem in Salento, as well as a top tourist destination for the young in Southern Italy and one of Apulia's best towns.The stunning beauty of this commercial port derives from the numerous invasions that interested it and left visible traces of architecture in its streets. Today, this tourist city presents a splendid historic center nestled on an island in the middle of the sea, protected by ancient stone walls and connected to the modern district with an arched bridge. This village is made of contrasts, as modernity combines with timeless glimpses and natural wonders mix with modern entertainments. This makes Gallipoli the perfect summer destination for all visitors, as it is suitable for both families and groups of young friends. Would you like to discover more about this town? Here is a summary of the things you need to see and do if you are staying in Gallipoli! Also, don't forget to book one of our holiday rentals near this center, like Cotriero Apartments! Don't worry: Gallipoli will offer you plenty of places to see! The city presents two harbors, located near the Greek Fountain and in the old district. While centuries ago they were important commercial ports in the Mediterranean, now the ancient port is a tourist attraction hosting cultural events and festival. Above, the imposing Angevin Castle stands on its waters and invites visitors to explore its towers, halls and internal corridors. Another old costruction is the defensive city wall, which now embellish the center's look and protect it from high sea tides. After all, the old town centre hasn't changed much in these centuries. The paved alleys are suggestive streets passing between historical buildings and they all converge in the square of the famous Greek Fountain, a monument built in the Renaissance. Here, the restaurants overlooking the sea are special places to stop to eat some local dishes and to have a tour between beautiful tourist attractions, like the Cathedral of Sant'Agata and the Church of San Francesco d ' Assisi. Don't forget to visit the fish market, where you can buy fresh food from local fishermen to prepare your delicious lunch. Surely, one of the best times to visit Gallipoli is summer, when the sun shines on the white beaches and shines on the walls of the historical buildings. How can you resist the temptation to take a dip in the turqoise water? June and September are the ideal moments to visit Salento, because it is less crowded, temperatures are cooler and you will enjoy your holiday to the fullest. The so-called "Pearl of the Ionian" offers dozens of natural beauties and dreamy beaches in its large gulf, which extends between Punta Pizzo and Lido delle Conchiglie. In addition to these two bays, the most wonderful beaches to see are Punta della Suina, Baia Verde, Lido San Giovanni and Padula Bianca. This stretch of coast is easily accessible and is suitable for families with young children, as it offers many comforts and services. The sea bottom degrading gently and the lovely colours of the sea make the beauty of Gallipoli's beach simply unquestionable. Gallipoli is also one of the most popular destinations for young people looking for nightlife and fun! While the town centre is ideal for an aperitif or an after-dinner cocktail, Baia Verde is where you can find the most exclusive Italian clubs to dance all night long, like Praja and Zen. Music keeps playing during the day on the beach of Samsara, where young people gather to take part to spectacular beach parties. Finally, how can you leave Apulia without immersing yourself in its wonderful culture? In occasion of town events and festival, you will have the chance to listen to the traditional "pizzica" melodies, to dance on its notes and to taste some local food delights, like some "orecchiette" pasta or a delicious fish dish accompanied by an excellent local wine! © Alice Pilastri

February is the month of Carnival in Greece and it’s time to get ready for celebrations! Greece will surprise you with its huge celebrations taking place in villages and towns, where thousands of dancers and masked participants have fun together in the name of joy and happiness. There is no better period to enjoy the cheerful Greek life: get accompanied by traditional music and by your fellow masquerades and taste the local food specialities in the best city bars and restaurant! Do you want to know more about Greek Carnival and how it is celebrated? Read more and take part to the next events booking an unforgettable holiday in Greece! The name of Carnival in Greece is “Apokries”, which means “abstention from eating meat”. The festival starts ten weeks before the Orthodox Easter and ends with the beginning of Lent, so it takes place on the three weeks before the so-called “Clean Monday”. Actually, Greece was Carnival’s homeland. The tradition began in Ancient Greece, where people celebrated the god of wine Dionysus with pagan rites that were already associated with earthly pleasures and transgressions. Nowadays, Carnival has adopted a deep religious meaning and it is celebrated in almost every country of the world! In Greece, the first week of Carnival is called “Profoni” and starts with the “opening of the Triodon”, an event referring to the three odes sung in Orthodox churches before Holy Saturday. The second week, called “Kreatini”, is when Greeks cook roasted meat in every house, filling streets’ air with a delicious, irresistible smell. On Thursday, called “Tsiknopempti”, families and friends gather to have a nice meal together, dancing and drinking wine listening to traditional music. With the beginning of the third week, called "Tyrinì", people are no longer allowed to eat meat and “Cheese Week” officially starts! These will be the last days of parties and celebrations, as the following Monday marks the beginning of Lent period. "Kathara Deftera” or “Clean Monday” is a day of purification and sobriety that puts a definite end to the excessive Carnival celebrations. However, Clean Monday is a festive day symbolizing harmony, hope and happiness: traditionally, families spend this day out to have a picnic together, tasting some special foods such as “lagana” bread, “taramosalata” sauce or “halvas” cake. Also, children make their kites fly in the blue sky, as this game is a symbol of the positivity associated with this day. As in other countries, Carnival is a wonderful occasion in which children and adults can dress up in fanciful ways, wearing masks and costumes. Although Carnival is celebrated everywhere in Greece, usually with the symbolic “Carnival King” figure, there are some towns that organize it in a very special way. Let’s discover where they are! One of the most singular events is the one taking place in Patras, hosting a one-week fantastic party featuring colorful floats, dancing parades, firework shows and traditional events like the “chocolate battle”. This is the largest of its kind in Greece and one of the biggest of Europe! Another nice place to visit in this occasion is Rethimno, a small town organizing a humoristic Carnival with a unique Venetian style. Besides, in Spiros men usually dress up as goats to take part to the singular “Goat dance” in the main streets, while the celebration taking place in Naoussa is beautifully different from all the others, as it’s dedicated to freedom and independence. Take part to the next Carnival celebrations in Greece! Check out our selection of holiday rentals in Greece to book your favourite one and spend a memorable stay in this beautiful country! © Alice Pilastri

Are you looking for a special destination for your next summer holidays? Milano Marittima is the ideal solution if you are a family with children or a group of young friends seeking fun in this world of entertainment! Glamour pubs, fantastic events, comfortable beaches, natural wonders and cultural initiatives are just some of the infinite opportunities offered by this charming seaside locality, which will surely render your stay an unforgettable experience. What is popularily known as MiMa is a lovely toiurist destination located on the Adriatic coast, not far from Ravenna. Famous for its beautiful pine grove dominating the seaside promenade, it has become a renowned località attracting millions of Italian and foreign visitors every year. The buildings of this "garden town" perfectly integrate with the surrounding vegetation, guaranteeing tranquillity and quiet to all its guests. While the ones who love relax have the occasion to enjoy the pleasing pine trees' shadow from the balcony of a luxurious accommodation in front of the beach, party-goers will be dancing in the best disco clubs of Italy having fun during the best holiday of their life. The best period to visit MiMa is certainly summer, when the city becomes livelli and full of unmissable events. It is better to book the stay in advance, or to visit this locality in June or September, as high-season months are very requested and crowded. Still in Summer, nightclubs host the best-known international DJs and organize some sensazionale parties. Do not miss a night in the famous Pineta by Visionnaire, a classy club with a an elegante design inviting many VIPs. Villa Papeete is another must-do in in Milano Marittima, as this 19h century villa immerse in the green is an exclusive location with a matchless charm offering shows, live music and concerts. But first, remember to start the evening in the most adequate way! Everybody stop in a central street bar before going to the clubs, as thousands of people gather here every night to have a good "aperitivo" together! Caino Fashion Club, Vanquish or Zouk Santana are just some of the nice pubs you will find along your way. However, Milano Marittima is not just for the youngest visitors! Inside the century-old pine wood, you will find the modern "Terme di Cervia", a termale centre where couples and families decide to spend a realxing day out. Kids will also love the exciting Butterfly House, where they will be left with their mouth open in front of the explosion of colors of the wonderful animals. Do not forget to walk inside the splendid Natural park and to visit the thrilling adventure park called "CerviAvventura", where children and adults can have a great fun! And, last but not least, a day in Mirabilandia park will make your kids live the experience of a lifetime! Are you ready to plan your trip to Milano Marittima? hurry up and book now Villa Guidi or one of our charming properties for rent in Emilia-Romagna! © Alice Pilastri

Among the numerous travel destinations that we have recommended one of the most beautiful and unmissable for the summer is certainly Greece. If you decide to spend a holiday outside of Italy, Greece and its islands are the most spectacular places in the Mediterranean and the most suitable for all needs and tastes. This ancient, beautiful destination offers a stunning cultural heritage, as well as relaxing beaches to visit in summer. In Greece, there are also infinite places to choose for a great family holiday, as children can have fun in safety in some of the best Mediterranean localities. Let's discover together the best islands to visit with children in Greece and choose where to spend your next summer holidays! We are here to give you advice on the most beautiful, economical, fun and relaxing places for your well-deserved summer break. Crete offers various nice opportunities for families, both for its accommodations and for the beautiful localities. The pink beach of Elafonisi, the splendid Balos lagoon are just two of the countless places to see, which also include historic towns like Candia, the museum of Heraklion or the ancient palace of Knossos. In this island full of history, you will find some suitable beaches for children near the main tourist areas, such as Herakleio, Chania and Malia. If you want to discover more about Crete, read our useful travel tips in the blog article! A holiday on the island of Corfu offers a variety of activities for everyone. As well as being a wonderful island, it is child-sized and an ideal place for a family holiday. The beaches are equipped and comfortable, the seabed degrades gently, and the temperature is mild. Moreover, getting to Corfu by ferry or airplane is very easy and comfortable. The best places to go with children are the beaches of Avlaki and Glyfada, two equipped white beaches with crystal clear water, Agios Giorgios, Stefanos Beach or Paleokastritsa, an impressive beach by families on holiday. Are you curious to discover the most charming places to see in Corfu? Read our exclusive article about the top 7 tourist destinations! Are you ready to discover Greece? Check out our holiday rentals Crete or Corfu to spend an unforgettable holiday with your beloved ones! © Alice Pilastri

You probably did not know that Corfu hided a beautiful ghost town. With no inhabitants, Old Perithia has turned into an abandoned place in the middle of nature chosen by many people for a unique Greek getaway. Time in Old Perithia has stopped around 40 years ago and today it is considered Corfu’s best-preserved and oldest heritage. Awarded as a “heritage protected” in “a designated area of beauty”, this is certainly a place that deserves at least a visit if you are staying in the wonderful island. Why don’t you spend a day far from the wonderful beaches and Greek tavernas to discover the real, authentic spirit of the island? Surrounded by an incredible silence, in older times it was a populous and charming village made of stone houses and iconic churches. Once, it was inhabited by more that 1200 people and has flourished basing its economy on vines and agriculture, as the immense countryside framing its walls was suitable for this kind of activities. However, 40 years ago the last inhabitants abandoned the city seeking fortune away during a positive economic period, leaving Old Perithia forever. Now, a city tour turns into a magnificent time-travel. You will pass next to old ruins and walk on grassy roads stumbling into some imposing stone palaces which beauty was not lost with the passing of centuries. Their walls still present frescoes and decorations, recreating a wonderful Venetian atmosphere, and the cozy houses that were once so warm and friendly still look charming. Above all, the churches are particularily fascinating, as their position in the village seems chosen to protect it from foreign attacks. Actually, even the localization of Old Perithia aimed to avoid pirates’ menaces and made it a safe place to hide and install. The settlement developed on the side of a mountain invisible from sea and unreachable by land. Today, it has become a nice tourist destination and some restaurants and bars have opened to offer some delicious local specialites. This is certainly an unmissable opportunity to discover one of Corfu’s nicest and oldest corners! Plan your visit and do not forget to book one of our charming holiday rentals in the region, like Villa di Giovanni! © Alice Pilastri

If you are looking for charming locality in Corfu for your next vacation, Kassiopi is the ideal destination for you. Relaxing, beautiful and immersed in the vegetation, this seaside town is a magic place that will make you explore the local culture in a unique way. Kassiopi is a traditional fishermen village located in the northern part of the island of Corfu. It is now a vibrant tourist destination with two wonderful beaches that attract many visitors with their stunning beauty. Born as a small coastal town, during the Roman Empire Kassiopi was a flourishing village where economy was totally based on fishing. Later, it enlarged the dimensions of its picturesque centre and featured a lovely byzantine castle that still partly exists. Kassiopi was not born as a touristic town. Situated in front of Pantokratos Mount, it is surrounded by a beautiful vegetation and still conserves the typical simplicity of the rich Greek culture. Of course, an excellent period to visit Kassiopi is summer to enjoy its three nice beaches! The first stony trait of coastline is equipped with facilities and offers various activities like water-ski or scuba diving that will make you live a memorable experience. The other two beaches are smaller but present some charming scenarios adorning them. The things to do in Kassiopi never lack. As it’s become a popular vacation locality, it offers numerous cafés, pubs and good restaurants of local cuisine where you can taste some Greek specialities. In the afternoons, you can enjoy a bike tour or a wonderful mini-cruise to discover the secret spots of paradise along the coast. How can we not mention the great events and festival organized in Kassiopi? Easter is definitely an excellent occasion to visit the town and to take part to its festivals, while August 15th and May8th are two important religious festival not to be missed. Are you ready for your trip? We suggest choosing the wonderful Villa Armonia to enjoy your stay to the fullest, as this beautiful villa located 2 km far from the town centre guarantees an unforgettable stay to all its guests. © Alice Pilastri

Crete is a magical island considered one of world’s best holiday destinations. Also called “Megalònisos”, meaning “Great Island”, its territory is so large that it might also be considered as a country itself. Its amazing localities satisfy everyone’s needs: art, culture, history, natural wonders, beautiful beaches and a lively nightlife are the highlights of a trip to this charming Mediterranean gem! Discover more about Crete and follow our useful travel tips to spend an unforgettable time on this Greek island! Centuries ago, Crete was the main centre of Minoan civilisation, which flourished until a natural disaster that made Achaeans and Dorians dominate the island. After a long period of Classical Greek civilisation, Crete was occupied by Romans and became an important Christian site. After various centuries of wars and battles, Crete was finally united with Greece in 1913. Crete is divided in four regional units. Chania’s capital presents a wonderful old town to discover on a tour, Rethymno offers many popular attractions to see, in Lasithi you can find the charming coastal town of Agios Nikolaos, while Heraklion is a treasure of art and history. When is it the best period to visit Crete? Even though this island presents an unbelievable charm in each period of the year, summer months are surely great to enjoy warm temperatures and get suntanned on the nice sandy beaches. However, this high-seasos is always accompanied by crowds of tourists that will not make you appreciate your stay to the fullest. Here is why we suggest visiting Crete between May and June, when the weather is already very agreeable. What to see in Crete? This island is famous for its numerous Minoan excavations, presenting some inestimable ancient ruins and works of art. An example is the wonderful palace of Knossos (discover more about this attraction here), the sites of Phaistos or Agìa Trìada. Many of these findings are now conserved in some museums, like the splendid Heraklion Archaelogical Museum, which is one of the largest and most important of the whole Greece. Looking for a holiday rental? Choose among our villas for rent in Crete! © Alice Pilastri

Santorini’s fame comes before any description. It is probably one of the most iconic Mediterranean islands and its glimpses come to mind when it is time to talk about Greece. This volcanic island emerging from the Aegean Sea presents unique landscapes and stunning sunsets that add a wonderful touch of romanticism to a lovely holiday with the beloved one. But which are the best things to do in Santorini? There are activities you cannot skip to do and places you absolutely need to visit before returning home full of regrets. Discover them with us! If you are looking for a holiday rental in Santorini, don't forget to check Villa Dreams and Lighthouse Villa, two charming properties that we rent on this island. 1) Watch the Sunset in Oia Oia is a small but very charming village located north that mixes tourist attraction with traditional atmospheres. Its sunset are stunningly beautiful and will leave you speechless. The perfect spots to watch the sun go down is the Byzantine Castle, Akrotiri lighthouse, Santo Winery or at a romantic restaurant. 2) Spend a day at the beautiful beaches What’s better than spending a hot summer day at the beach? Santorini offers various beaches with different features that fit the need of every visitor. While Red Beach is wild and colorful, Perissa Beach is very frequented , White Beach can only be reached by sea and Kamari Beach presents an endless trait of fine white sand. You just need to choose your favorite and relax. 3) Take part to a delightful Wine Tour One of the things that distinguish Santorini is its unique viticulture, that differs from any other around the globe. It is not a holiday without a glass of wine, right? And why not choosing an incredible 18-Greek wine tasting in the famous Santo’s Winery? 4) Visit an archaeological excavation site The western coast of Santorini presents the wonderful archaeological site of Akrotir. Here, an ancient Minoan civilization was discovered, after being buried for centuries under the ashes of a 15thcentury BC eruption. Don’t miss it! 5) Discover the beauty of Fira Fira is Santorini’s largest town and certainly the most visited by tourists. Its attractions are countless: spend some time shopping in the numerous boutiques of have a coffee in a panoramic café! Then, continue your tour between picturesque churches and don’t forget to take some gorgeous photographs. 6) Hike to the top of Santorini Volcano This island presents a famous “caldera” born from volcanic activities. Get the most out of your experience and try to hike to the top of the volcanic island of Nea Kameni that you can find in this area! You will spot smoking craters, lava formations and beautiful landscapes that you will not be able to see in any other place. Also, the panoramic view will be worth the long walk! © Alice Pilastri

Puglia is a splendid region of Southern Italy full of artistic and natural wonders. As well as being a renowned summer tourist destination with stunning beaches (discover the best beaches here), Puglia can offer unforgettable experiences and stays in every period of the year, surprising each visitor with its beauty. It's right in "Italy's heel" that you'll spot some splendid cities, distinguished by historical centers filled up with art and beauty to discover in each single angle. Have you booked a holiday in Puglia? If you wish to organize it in the best way, read more about the best five localities to visit in this region to choose the most charming to see during your tour. Follow our travel tips and get ready to have the holiday in Puglia you've always been dreaming of! 5) Otranto Otranto is a gem found in Salento area presenting a splendid Romanesque Cathedral and an imposing Aragonese Castle dating back to the 15th century. This town rises on a cliff overlooking the cliff and offers various charming spots with wonderful panoramic views. Suitable for a nice summer vacation, Otranto features some beautiful beaches to visit in the warmest days, such as the famous Baia dei Turchi. Are you looking for a holiday rental in Otranto? Choose Villa Safiria! 4) Ostuni Located in Brindisi's province, Ostuni presents a splendid historical center made of dozens of lovely white houses. The so-called "White Town" is a charming locality castled on top of a hill in the area of Murge and is surrounded by ancient city walls. As well as walking along its peculiar streets, its steep stairways and discovering the wonderful Cathedral, we suggest renting a boat to admire a new nice panoramic view from the sea. Are you looking for a holiday rental in Ostuni? Choose Trullo Santo Stefano! 3) Polignano a Mare Not far from Bari you will find one of the best-loved tourist destinations in Puglia: Polignano a Mare. This ancient town built on top of a beautiful white cliff overlooks the sea and offers countless panoramic views. The most photographed glimpse is definitely the one of Lama Monachile, which is a very popular beach in the summer months. Are you looking for a holiday rental in Polignano a Mare? Choose Masseria Lamacerase! 2) Lecce Thanks to the Baroque-style palaces, to the numerous churches and to the beautiful historical center, Lecce is also called "the Florence of the South". Italian art lovers will get astonished in front of the inestimable treasure conserved in this town, where they will have the opportunity to see Piazzetta dell'Addolorata or Basilica di Santa Croce and where must-sees are never missing. But there's more: Lecce is also the perfect place to visit if you'd like to spend a "gourmet" holiday appreciating some Italian "Dolce Vita" and good local food specialties! Are you looking for a holiday rental in Lecce? Choose Tenuta Arcadia! 1) Alberobello Alberobello is an unmissable stop of your Apulian tour! The characteristic "trulli", which are the typical cone-shaped buildings famous in all the world, have also been recognized as a UNESCO "World Heritage Site". In the two ancient city districts, called Rioni Monti and Aia Piccola, you will spot some fabulous views and buildings such as the wonderful Casa Pezzolla or Casa d’Amore. Alberobello is a unique, stunning destination that will certainly give you incredible emotions! Are you looking for a holiday rental in Alberobello? Choose Trullo Oak! © Alice Pilastri