Exclusive Places to Visit, Things to do and Experiences in Italy, Greece, Spain and Croatia

Syracuse is surely one of the most beautiful cities in Sicily. It boasts an incredibly long history, as it was founded in 733 BC and it has been an important Magna Greece's town. Actually, Siracusa could compete with Athens' greatness! Even today, its artistic heritage is invaluable and the cultural diversity of its center makes it a spectacular place to visit. Precisely for this reason, "Syracuse and the Etruscan Necropolis of Pantalica" were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005 and have become a popular tourist destination. The oldest part of the city is its historic center, which is located on an island connected to the city by some bridges. The beautiful Island of Ortigia is a rocky islet full of breathtaking monuments and places to see, including numerous freshwater springs that distinguish its unique environment. Would you like to organize a trip to Syracuse and Ortigia? Discover the best monuments, places of interest, most beautiful streets and the 10 stops you should absolutely make during your city tour! Stop n.1: Have lunch or dinner in a typical Sicilian restaurant You probably already know that Sicilian cuisine is one of the best in the world. Once you arrive in Syracuse, whether it's noon or sunset time, why don't you start your tour tasting some delicious local specialities? Dishes such as arancini al ragù, cannoli with ricotta, pasta with pistachio pesto and grilled fresh fish will accompany you on an unforgettable journey through the best flavors of the Sicilian land. The restaurants of Ortigia to choose from are endless: if you are looking for a café overlooking the sea, a place located in front of a famous monument or in a quiet central street, you will surely find the option that suits you. Stop n.2: Temple of Apollo The tour starts from Piazza Pancali, where the remains of the majestic Temple of Apollo are located. Dating back to the 6th century BC, this is the oldest Doric temple in Sicily and one of the first examples of peripteral temples with stone columns. The original plan is still visible, although the temple has been largely destroyed. Located in the heart of a green park, the Temple is surrounded by modern buildings that create a beautiful artistic contrast. Stop n.3: Fontana di Diana Crossing Corso Matteotti, you will reach Piazza Archimede and the Fountain of Diana, a monument built in 1907. It depicts the goddess of hunting, who was the protector of the city in Greek times, as well as Aretusa and Alfeo. According to the legend, the god Alpheus fell in love with Arethusa, who fled from him and took refuge on the island of Ortigia. Here he asked for help from Diana, who turned it into a source. Stop 4: Piazza Duomo Take via dell'Amalfitana, pass by via Landolina and reach Piazza Duomo, the most enchanting place in the city. You will be able to see buildings like Palazzo Senatorio, which is the Town Hall, Bishop's Palace, the Monastery, the Church of Santa Lucia, Palazzo Gaetani and Palazzo Beneventano del Bosco. But, above all, you'll be surprised by the beauty of the Cathedral of Ortigia which, following the advent of Christianity, incorporated the ancient Doric temple dedicated to Athena. The marvelous façade presents elements in Baroque and Rococo style, while the interior also features classical and medieval motifs. Don't miss it! Stop n.5: Piazzetta San Rocco From Via Picherali, you can get to Piazzetta San Rocco, which is the ideal place to spend a lively evening. In fact, every weekend after 10pm the square offers live music and DJ sets. It is a landmark of the Syracuse nightlife frequented by many young people where you can have a cocktail with your friends! Stop n.6: Largo Aretusa If you want to stop on a bench and relax in front of a beautiful view, then don't miss the stop in Largo Aretusa! This large square offers a beautiful panoramic view of Syracuse and its main port, both at day and night. Stop n.7: Fonte Aretusa Right next to the panoramic square you will find the famous Fonte Aretusa, a magical place where legend meets reality. Born from a source of fresh water, Fonte Aretusa looks like a small lake of crystalline water where the only papyrus trees of the European continent grow. Stop n.8: Castello Maniace Walk along Lungomare Alfeo, admire the seafront view and reach the tip of the island of Ortigia to see the wonderful Castello Maniace. It is one of the most important Frederick castles and a magnificent example of military architecture from the Swabian period. You can choose to visit its interior or admire it from the outdoor, where elegant bars prepare cocktails with background music in the evening. Stop n.9: Marina di Siracusa Return to Fonte Aretusa and now take the road descending towards the sea. This walk is called "Marina di Siracusa" and it is a beautiful promenade offering dozens of nightclubs, bars and pubs where hundreds of people like to spend the night. Along the main port of the city, you will pass by an enchanting park of secular trees which will give you a pleasant shade in the warm days. Stop n.10: Get lost in the streets of the historic center Before leaving Ortigia, immerse yourself in its maze of narrow streets and lose yourself in its beautiful streets! Get away from any tourist itinerary and discover the beauty of the ancient heart of Syracuse: the magical atmosphere of this area will surely steal your heart. Are you ready to leave for your trip? Book your holiday and have a look at our villas for rent near Syracuse, like Villa la Plage, Villa Floridia or Villa Cuorematto! © Alice Pilastri

The Adriatic Coast in Emilia-Romagna, which is also called Riviera Romagnola by Italians, is simply the perfect holiday destination. Whether you are seeking a spot where you can have a lot of fun or you'd rather prefer spend your days relaxing on the beach, the Riviera will satisfy all your desires. Actually, there is always something to do, as the activities and the places to see are many. Families, elderly people, children and groups of young friends will find endless ways to have fun! That's why in a few years places like Riccione, Rimini and Milano Marittima have turned into exclusive tourist destinations for the summer, where even VIP love to spend a holiday away. Do you want to discover the best things to do on the Adriatic coast? Keep reading and check out the list of the most beautiful beaches and the best places to enjoy the nightlife in Emilia-Romagna! If you like dancing until the morning lights, the Riviera is the perfect place for you! Every evening, international DJs play in some of the most famous Italian clubs and organize some amazing parties. There is nothing better than spending the night in a seafront club dancing under the stars! Riccione is certainly the best known city for nightlife lovers. Clubs like "Villa delle Rose", "Baia Imperiale", "Byblos" and "Peter Pan" are sassy discos where high-level guests like to have elegant evenings. Instead, the town of Milano Marittima hosts the splendid "Pineta" club, a chic place with a glass ceiling where the first lights of dawn create some spectacular effects. The party already starts in the afternoon in "Papeete Beach", a beach club organizing parties under the sun everyday, featuring music and excellent cocktails. After dinner, the location changes and the party moves to "Villapapeete", a disco with commercial music that offers a dreamy atmosphere. However, if your idea of the perfect holiday includes infinite days on the beach, don't worry: the Adriatic Coast offers innumerable options to relax by the sea! Each city offers various areas, each suitable for different kinds of visitors like families, couples or groups of friends. The beaches on the Riviera are appreciated for being equipped with every comfort, like bathing establishments with children areas, bars, restaurants and even DJ sets with music in some cases. The main seaside destinations are Rimini, Riccione, Cervia, Cattolica, Cesenatico and Milano Marittima , which offer lots of miles of golden beaches. Many of them also boast the "Bandiera Blu" (Blue Flag) award due to their cleanliness and beauty. These are actually the most charming beaches of Italy! © Alice Pilastri

Discover the beautiful landscapes of Emilia Romagna, swim in the waters of the Adriatic coast and run on the vast golden beaches during IRONMAN Race, one of the most famous sporting events in the world! This year,Cervia and Milano Marittima have been chosen as location of this incredible competition, where athletes from all over the world challenge themselves to reach the final goal. Discover more about this special sporting event and take part to the next edition! This is the longest and toughest triathlon competition in the world, as it is much more demanding than the Olympic triathlon that includes 1500m of swimming, 40km of bike and 10km of running. The so-called long distance IRONMAN, in fact, includes a first session of 3.8 km swimming, 180 km of bicycle and a final running session of 42.195 km. As well as being a very demanding race, it is also one of the most scenic, since its route passes through the most beautiful places of the region where it takes place. There are various editions of the event throughout the year , as they are organized in a different part of the world. The first competition took place in the 1970s in Hawaii and it was called " Hawaiian Iron Man Triathlon ". The idea of the triathlon was born from the intuition of two friends who were discussing about what was the hardest discipline between cycling, running and swimming. Since then, hundreds of thousands of athletes challenge each other to become "the first iron man" to cut the finish line and to show that "everything is possible"! The 2019 edition will start on Thursday September 19th with the 10 km Night Run taking place on the Romagna coast. On the next day, there is a running race for children and kids called IRONKIDS, while Saturday September 21th is when the real IRONMAN Long Distance begins. The event does not end here: on Sunday September 22nd there are the "5150 Cervia Triathlon Emilia Romagna" (a triathlon with the Olympic distance) and the first edition of "IRONMAN Italy Emilia Romagna 70.3". The IRONMAN Long Distance will start with a first swimming lap in the sea of ​​Cervia and will continue with a bike ride through some of Emilia-Romagna wonders. As well as the beautiful countryside, athletes will visit the Natural Park of the Saline and the splendid vineyards where Sangiovese wine is produced. After a tour between pink flamingos, verdant hills and unique landscapes, the race will end in the center of Cervia. here, the running race will begin and it will run along the beautiful sea promenade, ending in the town of Milano Marittima. Here is where the new IRONMAN will be awarded! IRONMAN is a spectacular event where every athlete challenges himself in an unbelievable competition. Unfortunately, the registrations to take part to this September's edition are closed, but attending the event is a unique experience that you will not easily forget! Organize your trip to Milano Marittima and discover the beauty of Emilia-Romagna by booking our splendid house with a luxury property with private pool. © Alice Pilastri

We all know that Greece is one of the top summer destinations in the Mediterranean. Whatever kind of holiday you are looking for, there is place that will meet your high expectations. Culture, art, nightlife and natural wonders are the main things that distinguish this country, especially its beautiful islands, from any other. But what if you are travelling in couple? What is the perfect destination for your next trip to Greece? Actually, the options are many, as each island seems to be the most charming and romantic one. We created a fantastic top 5 of the best Greek islands to choose as your next trip destination to guarantee a relaxing and lovely holiday to you and you partner. Check it out! 1. Santorini Could we really choose another island for the first place? The magic of Santorini is indisputable, and we could hardly find a dreamier spot in the whole world. Most of the couples choose it for the unique mix between luxury, beauty and romance offered by the lovely panoramic views. The typical white and blue house walls stand atop rocky hills created by ancient eruptions, as this island has a visible volcanic origin. There’s nothing quite like the chic ambiances and breath-taking sunsets that you won’t easily forget. 2. Zakynthos Zakynthos has all the elements to be perfect for a romantic holiday in couple. The tiny villages located along the coast are plunged into stunning natural landscapes that leave visitors speechless. The environment is very special: while the Northern coast is wild, the South is more touristic and presents some long, golden sand beaches. The most famous site is Shipwreck Beach in Navagio, a stunning place where the remains of an ancient vessel are still visible. 3. Corfu Corfu has some splendid places to visit in couple, both on a honey moon and a special trip together. The most romantic spot is Canal d'Amour, a rocky trait of coast whose name derives to a legend telling that the couples that swim in its waters will love each other forever. However, we also need to mention the wonderful Paleokastritsa Beach, as its waters are inlcuded inside a bay with the shape of a heart! Looking for a holiday rental in Corfu?Choose Beach Villa Blue or Beach Villa Nancy! 4. Crete Crete is the largest Greek islands and is particularily suitable for a romantic escape. Each part of its territory presents a unique variety of culture, mountains, villages and beaches, which are what makes Crete so popular among tourists. Bays such as Balos or Elafonisi are some of the tropical paradises found along its infinite coastline, some of which are hidden in magnificent scenarios. There's never shortage of things to see in this beautiful island! 5. Folegandros The "island of the couples" owns this name for a clear reason. Its stunning panoramic views and sunsets are some of the most beautiful in the whole Greece and the turqoise waters make every couple fall in love at first sight. The typical bouganvillas adorn the white streets of Chora, the main city, making it extremely precious If you are looking for a quiet place to relax surrounded by nature, Folegandros is definitely the place for you. © Alice Pilastri

Summer is the perfect time to organize a dream vacation! You do not need to go far to see some natural wonders, as Italy is a dream destination to discover! From North to South, this country offers splendid panoramas and fabulous places that make visitors fall in love at first sight. Along with the beauty created by nature, many villages stand out for their splendid monuments and ancient buildings. Art, architecture and the precious cultural heritage that distinguishes Italy is so unique that it has no equal in the world. The ideal tourist destinations for couples, groups or families can be chosen among man, because each one owns a breathtaking charm. Here is a list of the six most beautiful places to see during an unforgettable vacation in Italy: discover them all! 1. Tuscany The real question is not "whether" you should go to Tuscany, but "what" to choose to see during your trip! With its cities of art, marvelous hills and dreamy beaches, this region offers panoramas of all kinds. A tour between Siena, Pisa, Florence and Lucca is a must for culture lovers who wish to take a photograph to some of the most famous monuments in the world. On the other hand, travelers who want to discover the natural beauty hidden in the countryside will surely yield to the temptation of a tour between the hills of Chianti and Val di Chiana, between fields of wheat and rows of cypresses. However, can you really resist a dip in the crystal clear sea? The beaches of Maremma, Elba Island or Versilia are very popular in summer and they are the ideal places to enjoy some fun and relax! Looking for a holiday home in Tuscany? Discover our villas nel Chianti, in the Tuscan Coastline or in Florence! 2. Amalfi Coastline Few places are as romantic as the Amalfi Coast! Ravello, Amalfi, Minori and Positano are some of the beautiful villages located in front of the sea, where they leave visitors speechless with stunning panoramic views. Steep stairways and narrow alleyways separate the beautiful colored houses, which recall the charm of the ancient fishermen villages. A tour of the prettiest towns on the Amalfi Coast is a must, but a boat trip to reach the hidden paradises on the cliff is a true daydream! Also, don't forget to spend an afternoon on one of the small beaches along the coast: the crystal-clear sea will be irresistible! 3. Sicily Sicily is a region you should entirely discover during a memorable road trip! In fact, every Sicilian city hides incredible beauties and buildings presenting various architectural styles, because they were made in different eras. There is nothing more fascinating than a tour between the monuments of Palermo, a visit of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, or a walk through the splendid streets of the center of Catania! Specifically, the Eastern coast is a lovely place to discover, as it includes beautiful cities such as Taormina, Siracusa and Noto. These are all included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites along with the Etna Regional Park. However, there is no need to say that the fabulous sea is what makes Sicily so beloved! From North to South and from East to West, Sicily offers wonderful beaches and some of the most beautiful bays in the world. A visit to the island of Favignana, to the Aeolian islands or to the area of ​​Sna Vito Lo Capo is a real must! Looking for a holiday home in Sicily? Discover our villas in the Northern Region, in Eastern Sicily or in the South! 4. Sardinia This happy island found in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea is a paradise on earth that includes beautiful beaches and a priceless historical heritage. As the beauty of nature is widespread throughout its territory, it is almost impossible to choose the best place to visit in Sardinia. The ideal destination for those who love unbridled luxury and fun is surely the Costa Smeralda, while those who are looking for heavenly landscapes can go to La Maddalena Archipelago, which is a set of beautiful islands protected as nature reserves. Are you looking for a holiday home in Sardinia? Choose Lentischio or Villa Vera! 5. Cinque Terre The beauty of Cinque Terre is unique, and when the sun shines on the colorful houses' walls it becomes even more special. The villages of Vernazza, Monterosso al Mare, Corniglia, Riomaggiore and Manarola can be comfortably visited with the shuttle train that connects all of them, guaranteeing a relaxing visit to all its tourists. Thanks to the splendid views that will accompany your tour and to the charming alleys crossing the towns, your visit will also turn into a fabulous experience you will hardly forget. Unfortunately, there is only one beach to go to enjoy the crystal clear sea, but visiting these places will be enough to make you enjoy a fantastic daydream. Looking for a holiday home in the Cinque Terre? Choose Casa al Bosco! 6. Apulia How could we not include Puglia in our ranking? The so-called "heel of the boot" of the Italian peninsula is famous for the fairy buildings called "Trulli", for the beautiful beaches and for the fantastic nightlife. The cities you should see during a tour of the region are many, because each of them welcomes beautiful ancients monuments. However, the sea is certainly the part of the trip that tourists love the most! Beaches such as Baia Verde, Torre Lapillo or the bays found in Salento Coastline are some of the destinations you will not want to miss during your summer trip! Looking for a vacation home in Puglia? Choose Trullo Santo Stefano or Trullo Oak! © Alice Pilastri

If you are in Tuscany on the first Sunday of October, than you cannot miss one of the most beautiful cycling races in the world: l'Eroica! Driving along the marvelous roads that cross the Chianti region, you will meet dozens of people riding their vintage bikes and wearing vintage clothes. Actually, this is what makes the Eroica race so unique! This is not an ordinary competition, but a journey back in time that will also accompany you into the beauty of nature. More than 7000 bikersparticipated to last year's edition and thousands of other people went to watch this show, as they wanted to taste its magical atmosphere. In fact, the competition is also a wonderful opportunity to visit the villages where the route passes. Every year, Gaiole in Chianti, the town hosting the departure, gets literally crowded by tourists who want to see the beginning of this epic race! L'Eroica is also lived as an opportunity to share some unforgettable moments with those who have the same passion for the beauty of Tuscany. The participants are lead into another dimension, where time flows slower and the soul enters into a symbiosis with nature to enjoy its smells and colors. The route can be chosen among various itineraries: the easiest one extends for about 46 kilometers, while the "long route" includes 210 kilometers and a very challenging total climb (about 3,890 meters). Those who choose this itinerary arrive to the finish line at night and begin the competition in the so-called "French way", as they can choose any departing moment between within a time slot between 5 and 6 am. Hundreds of kilometers to be traveled with old bicycles and vintage equipment... this is not just a tourist event, but a truly heroic experience! Actually, the Eroica is a race against yourself to overcome your limits. There is no other competition that can give you the same emotions you can feel traveling through the fabulous wonders of Tuscan countryside. Gaiole in Chianti, Castelnuovo Berardenga, Asciano, Buonconvento, Montalcino, Montaperti and Radda are towns which names evoke ancient families, bloody battles and magnificent wines that you surely won't resist to taste during your splendid journey. In fact, Eroica is not a race with winners and losers, but an event where a large group of people riding charming bikes can't wait to get to the various stages to stop, sit on a stone bench, eat a tasty sandwich with "Cinta Senese" ham and sip a good glass of Brunello wine. In this competition, there is no hurry to reach the finish line, nor the need to exaggerate with the physical effort. Enjoying the route is what really matters and nobody really wants to get to the end of this dream trip! You don't necessarily need to visit Tuscany in October, as you have the opportunity to travel the Eroica all year to discover the beauty of Chianti! It's a fantastic tour to do at least once in a lifetime, which will make you experience unique emotions and enjoy the magic of one of the most beautiful places in the entire world. Are you ready to go? Book one of our villas for rent in Chianti, like Villa Barbischio, Villa Ulivacci or Villa Aria! © Alice Pilastri

There are few other places in the world that conserve the charm of the Amalfi Coast. Romantic, poetic and colorful, the "Costiera" is one of the most popular tourist destinations for Italian and foreign tourists, who crowd its streets at any time of the year. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997 and includes thirteen localities, which are Amalfi, Atrani, Praiano, Ravello, Maiori, Minori, Vietri on Sea, Positano, Scala, Tramonti, Furore, Cetara and Conca dei Marini. Once there, it is difficult to choose which villages you should visit first during your tour, especially if it doesn't last more than a few days. Also, you must consider that the "Amalfitana" road connecting all the villages is very busy in high-season periods such as summer. It is not easy to park you car either: parking lots are few, difficult to reach and they can cost up to € 3/hour. This is why planning your itinerary to perfection is what can make the difference during your holiday, which can turn it from a nightmare to a beautiful daydream. We suggest a list of five beautiful views you absolutely need to see, as they will surely leave you breathless. You do not need to stop in each town getting out of your car to wander in some unknown village streets, because finding the right places to capture your dreamy pictures will be enough to make your trip memorable. 1- Ravello Located 365 meters above the sea level, Ravello is the highest town of the whole Coast. Perched on a cliff overlooking the entire gulf, it offers a breathtaking view of Maiori, Minori and Salerno. The sea is 20 minutes away by car, but it can also be reached by foot taking one of the splendid pedestrian streets with steep staircases connecting Ravello to the beach of Minori, which also offer some breathtaking views. The most famous view can be seen from the garden of Villa Rufolo, a splendid park overlooking the bell tower of the cathedral of Ravello and the entire Gulf of Salerno. In fact, what really distinguishes Ravello from all the other towns are not its monuments, but its stunning panorama. No other place offers such views! 2- Positano This suggestive village separates the Amalfi Coast from the Sorrento Peninsula. The "vertical city" is where you can enjoy some shopping in the lovely stores selling precious linen clothes. The main square and the magnificent church located near the beach can be reached getting down the typical narrow streets connecting the upper part of the city to the beach. A visit to the village of Positano is a wonderful experience, but can also be very tiring. Therefore, you can also choose to just stop for a few minutes on the sides of the road coming from Conca dei Marini to appreciate a magnificent panorama, which will nevertheless give you some splendid emotions. 3- Fiordo di Furore The deep rocky inlet that takes the name of "Fjord of Furore" is a real natural wonder. An old arched bridge stands over a small beach overlooking a natural pool, which makes the view even more magical. Unfortunately, the beach is no longer reachable on foot, because a fire ruined the stone staircase. However, those who choose to take a boat trip can still admire it from a beautiful point of view! 4- Villa Comunale in Vietri sul Mare Vietri sul Mare is the first town of the Amalfi Coast and it can be easily reached from Salerno. Its charm is enhanced by the wonderful glazed ceramics that adorn walls and streets, which are the symbol of the ancient craft tradition that distinguishes this center. In fact, the narrow streets of Vietri present dozens of local shops selling dishes, souvenirs and other gift ideas in ceramics that can be offered to friends and relatives. The most beautiful glimpse of Vietri is in "Villa Comunale", a large park with colorful decorations looking like Gaudì's masterpieces in Barcelona. The stairway covered with brightly-colored pieces of ceramic snaking above the sea offers a very special view to all its visitors. 5- Amalfi's Dome The Costiera takes its name from the town of Amalfi, the ancient Maritime Republic that still conserves a stunning look. The main square is a place you must see: bars, typical restaurants, pottery shops and historic hotels surround the famous steps of the Cathedral of Amalfi, a pearl of Romanesque architecture with a unique Arab taste. The polychrome decoration, the gilded stuccoes and the pointed arches embellish its majestic façade, which always amazes those who admire it from below. Are you looking for a holiday rental? Choose one of our Villas on the Amalfi Coastline! © Alice Pilastri

UNESCO is a United Nations organization specialized in enhancement the values of education, science and culture. Every year, new monuments and beautiful places located all over the world are added to the list of World Heritage Sites as they stand out for their historical, artistic and cultural importance. The magnificent places of Sicily could not miss on this list! Its ancient monuments, splendid landscapes, century-old churches and the traces of a unique history are the elements that make Sicily one of the most fascinating Italian regions. Here is a list of the seven Sicilian places recognized as "World Heritage Sites" by UNESCO: discover them all and start planning your dream trip to Sicily! 1. Archaeological area of ​​Agrigento The splendid Valley of the Temples in Agrigento (discover more!) contains the remains of this ancient Greek city-state. This magnificent archaeological area contains ten Doric temples, some of which are still intact and visitable. The timeless scenery that characterizes Agrigento is breathtaking and an indescribable experience for each tourist. Looking for a villa for rent in Agrigento? Choose Villa Agorà 2. Villa Romana del Casale and Piazza Armerina The Roman Villa in Piazza Armerina is a masterpiece of late Roman art dating back to the 4th-3rd century BC. This luxury villa is located in the Contrada Casale, a locality in the heart of central Sicily. Its enchanting mosaics are the best preserved in the world and their colors still shine like centuries ago. 3. Aeolian Islands The islands of Stromboli, Panarea, Vulcano, Alicudi, Filicudi, Lipari and Salina form one of the most beautiful Italian archipelagosy. These heaven-on-earth sites have a volcanic origin and have been awarded for their naturalistic and landscape value, as they are one of the main places for volcanology studies. The beautiful panorama and the turquoise sea adorn this magic place making it extraordinary. 4. Baroque cities of the Val di Noto "Val di Noto" is an area of south-eastern Sicily, extending between the provinces of Syracuse, Catania and Ragusa. The localities of Modica, Noto, Palazzolo Acreide, CataniaRagusa, Scicli, Caltagirone and Militello in Val di Catania are known for their priceless architectural value, because they are unique examples of European Baroque art. These picturesque villages, especially that of Noto, preserve some wonderful art masterpieces that stand out for their homogeneity. 5. Syracuse and the Rock Necropolis of Pantalica The Necropolis of Pantalica is located a stone's throw from the center of Syracuse and contains more than 500 prehistoric tombs dating back to the 13th century BC, as well as some splendid natural rock caves and the famous Palazzo del Principe. Even the city of Syracuse (discover more!) is part of the UNESCO heritage, as it conserves a unique artistic and historical treasure. The old town center, situated on the island of Ortigia, contains numerous testimonies of Greek and Roman times, such as the ear of Dionysus, the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, the Temple of Apollo and the Greek Theater. Are you looking for a villa for rent in Syracuse? Choose Villa del Mito or Villa Angelina! 6. Mount Etna Mount Etna (discover more!) is a volcano whose cultural and mythological meaning mixes with the scientific value. Europe's highest volcano is a naturalistic beauty that can be visited at any time of the year to appreciate its charm, both during an excursion under the sun and skiing on its snow-covered slopes. Its stupendous panoramas present steaming vents, verdant woods and rocky terrain that get illuminated by incandescent lava in occasion of the extraordinary eruptions. Looking for a villa for rent near Mount Etna? Choose Villa La Boheme or Villa Torre Etnea! 7. The Arab-Norman itinerary of Palermo, Monreale and Cefalù This magnificent UNESCO heritage is formed by a group of civil and religious monuments in Palermo, the cathedrals of Monreale and Cefalù. All these buildings stand out for the unique artistic style, based on the coexistence and interchange of different cultures. The result is an original kind of architecture, made with Byzantine, Islamic and Latin art elements. Inside Palermo (discover more!), which is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe, the town of Monreale and the delightful maritime village of Cefalù (discover more!) there are splendid treasures that fascinate tourists taking them along a wonderful time travel. Looking for a villa for rent near Palermo?Choose Villa Vincenzo! © Alice Pilastri

There is much more than just the Leaning Tower and Pizza dei Miracoli in the splendid city of Pisa! Statues, ancient buildings, beautiful churches and centuries of a unique history are the features that distinguish Pisa from any other city in the world. In fact, Pisa was an important "City State" in the thirteenth century, as well as a rich "Maritime Republic" that has dominated the Tyrrhenian and the Mediterranean Sea for several decades. The pride of belonging to this noble city has never completely disappeared, neither after the territorial conquest by Florence in the 16th century. One of the strongest symbols of the so-called "pisanity" is the Game of the Bridge, an annual event where two quarters of the city called "Mezzogiorno" and "Tramontana" face each other to conquer "Ponte di Mezzo", the main city bridge that also symbolizes the dominion over the whole city. It is a unique event in the world that was born in the 16th century that is considered part of the Tuscan culture. Ready to discover more about it? The "Gioco del Ponte" is a tremendous event in which 240 men divided into teams of twenty "fighters" face off pushing a heavy cart with their back, to take it to the opposite side of the bridge. The first edition was held on February 22, 1568 and was completely different from the current one. In fact, it was the so-called "War with the Stones", a popular type of combat in Florence that was later banned by Francis I. Later, the event turned into the "Gioco del Mazzascudo", that is to say a battle of fighters equipped with armor, bats and shields taking place for a whole day. As time passed, Pisans started to appreciate this event, which started to undergo some transformations. Initially, the Game became a complex combat with soldiers and small towers that served as a training for the war. There were thousands of participants and the battle tended to be very bloody. In 1785 the Game was suspended by the Grand Duke of Tuscany and it did not take place in the following 150 years, until the period of fascism. Since 1957, the Game has been organized every year and it has completely changed its characteristics. Now, it's a non-violent event based on the competition between two teams of 20 fighters that must push of a large wooden trolley on rails on the other side of the bridge. Teams are led by a "Captain" who shouts his commands, just like the captains of the great Pisant ships of the 13th century did with their crew. The Game of the Bridge takes place every year on the last Saturday of June and includes two parts, the "Historic Procession" and the "Battle" . More than 700 participants attend the parade where each one has a specific role and wears typical Renaissance costumes. The main moment of the Game takes place at night, under the light of thousands of torches put on the streets and next to the Arno river. The atmosphere is very lively, as thousands of Pisans and tourists watch the battle with passion, enthusiasm and transport. This is an event you cannot miss! This year, the Game of the Bridge will take place on June 30 and tens of thousands of people are expected to participate. Wouldn't you like to take part to it? Book one of our holiday rentals near Pisa, like Flavia or Il Fienile di Giovanna and discover this wonderful Italian tradition! © Alice Pilastri

The historical, artistic and cultural heritage of Tuscany is simply unique. Towns of art, archaeological sites, Italian paintings and other masterpieces are some of the beauties enriching the charm of this wonderland. The Etruscan period is one of the most important historical eras. This powerful civilization settled in southern Tuscany, Umbria and Latium between the 9th and the 1st century BC, and then expanded its territory towards Campania, Emilia-Romagna and Lombardy. Thanks to the numerous architectural traces left in our territory, it has been possible to reconstruct the main aspects of their culture, especially as regards the singular funerary traditions. Many Italian cities still conserve some beautiful necropolis, which were the ancient Etruscan tombs that could have different forms depending on the social status of the deceased. These centers were part of the "Dodecapoli", which was the federation of the twelve most important Etruscan city-states. Are you curious to follow the traces of the Etruscans in Tuscany? These beautiful summer days are just perfect to plan a visit to the main archaeological sites in the region or to look for the remains of the heritage that thiscivilization left in some splendid localities! In Tuscany, in fact, you can visit six of the twelve cities that were part of the ancient federation: discover where they are and organize your itinerary to see them all! 1- Populonia (LI) Populonia was the only city-state facing the sea and it guaranteed a strategic position for maritime trade. This ancient Acropolis is located at the top of a promontory overlooking the magnificent Gulf of Baratti, right in front of the coasts of Elba Island. It is famous for its beautiful Archaeological Park, an open-air museum containing thousands of artifacts found in the region, many of which are related to the iron work that was carried out in this area. The fascinating necropolis, on the other hand, is a stone's throw from the beach of Baratti and it presents tombs of various types (newsstand, pit, mound, sarcophagus, caisson and chamber). Looking for a holiday rental in Populonia? Choose Castello Leopoldo 2- Chiusi (SI) The small town of Chiusi is situated in the midst of greenery, in the heart of a quiet countryside with fertile soil which was largely exploited by the Etruscans. One of its most important monuments is the beautiful Labyrinth of Porsenna, an ingenious hydraulic work dating back to the first century BC that can be explored in its tunnels by entering the Cathedral Museum. The necropolis is a few kilometers from the center and contains more than a thousand ancient tombs. Looking for a holiday rental in Chiusi? Choose Casale Giulio 3- Arezzo It was here that one of the symbols of the Etruscan civilization was found, specifically the marvelous Chimera of the 4th century BC which is now preserved in the Archaeological Museum of Florence. Arezzo offers the possibility of visiting some interesting museums containing rich Etruscan collections, such as the Gaio Clinio Mecenate Museum, which preserves earthen vessels found in the Necropolis of Poggio del Sole, or the Etruscan Academy Museum, with bronzes and other objects coming from the Tumulus of the Sodo. Other traces of the Etruscan civilization can be found in Piazzetta San Niccolò, where the remains of the city walls are still visible, or walking towards the ancient "city of the dead" located in the surrounding valley, where you will find several burials. Looking for a holiday rental in Arezzo? Choose Villa Lo Scoiattolo! 4- Cortona (AR) This splendid city presents the famous MAEC museum, a unique and original exhibition space collecting all the objects found in the territory of Cortona, such as the Tabula Cortonensis, the third Etruscan text by length. Its historic center still contains the remains of the walls dating back to the 4th century BC and offers the possibility of visiting other wonderful museums which will make your culture tour extremely interesting. Looking for a holiday rental in Cortona? Choose Villa Calcinaio! 5- Fiesole (FI) Fiesole was the ancient locumonia of Vipsul, where the Etruscans left numerous testimonies. One of these is the magnificent city walls, which can be seen along Via delle Mura Etrusche. In this important archaeological area many of the finds preserved in the Archaeological Museum of Fiesole were found, as well as the remains of dozens of tombs and of the acropolis, which stood near the Convent of San Francesco. Looking for a holiday rental in Fiesole? Choose Villa Ancora! 6- Volterra (PI) The city that in the 4th century BC was called Velathri presents numerous necropolises, such as those of Portone, Badia, delle Ripaie and Ulimeto. The Etruscan acropolis of Pian di Castello also presents some wonderful cisterns like the Augustan Pool and the ruins of temples dating back to the III-II century BC. Many of the findings discovered in this area are now preserved in the Guarnacci Museum, one of the most beautiful Italians collections of Etruscan art. Looking for a holiday rental in Volterra? Choose Villa Picchio! © Alice Pilastri