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

Greece is a land made of millennial history, natural wonders, charming beaches, crystal-clear waters and…excellent food! In fact, this cuisine is one of the most appreciated in the entire world and typical Greek restaurants are found behind every corner. However, there is nothing like eating a warm pita gyros in the country where it was invented! Meat, cheese and vegetables are the main ingredients that transform each dish into the succulent discovery of ancient local traditions. This cuisine is simple, but still surprisingly flavourful. Are you ready to discover some new fantastic flavours? Here are the best 6 traditional dishes you need to taste at all costs during your holiday in Greece! 1- Baklava This dessert made using phyllo pasta presents itself as small pastries made of honey and dried fruit. It is perfect for breakfast, as it makes you start the day in a very sugary way! 2- Moussaka It looks like an Italian "Parmigiana", but it is one of Greece's iconic dishes. This is a flan made of aubergines, potatoes, minced meat, bechamel sauce and cheese. Its incredible flavour is imitated by many, that often fail to reproduce its rich taste. Don't miss it! 3- Kolokythokeftedes Despite its complicated name, this dish is made of few, simple ingredients. Kolokythokeftedes are meatballs composed by feta cheese, zucchini, parsley, mint and dill, which are fried to get a crunchy consistency. They can be perfectly accompanied by some tzatziki sauce for an entrée or a main course of a light lunch. 4- Greek salad Another idea for a light summer lunch is a fresh Greek salad, one of the most popular salad varieties. Red tomatoes, green pepperoni, black olives, slices of cucumber and plenty of delicious feta cheese are the ingredients of this appetizing specialty. 5- Souvlaki Souvlaki is the name of grilled pork skewers that are often served as a street food with pita bread and french fries. The meat is marinated in oil, lemon juice and some spices and its flavour is mouth-watering. 6- Pita Gyros Pita Gyros is the dish you can't forget to taste before leaving Greece! This famous street food is a round flat bread cooked on a hot-plate stuffed with strips of lamb, chicken or pork. It can be seasoned with vegetables like olives, cucumber or tomatoes, as well as with sauces like the traditional tzatziki dressing. You can find variants of this dish in other areas of the Mediterranean, such as Tukey of Northern Africa, but nothing tastes as good as a typical Pita Gyros! Have you already booked a seaside property for your stay? Choose your favorite holiday rental among our selected villas in Crete or Corfu! © Alice Pilastri

Montepulciano is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful villages in Tuscany. Located on top of a hill in the province of Siena, it dominates the Val di Chiana and the Val d'Orcia offering some breathtaking views. Its look still conserves a Medieval charm and the legacy of a century-old history. In fact, in the 13th century Montepulciano was the center of the war between the Republics of Siena and Florence, which fought to gain the control of the whole valley. Even today, his position is considered strategic for the visitors who wish to reach other centers of interest, such as Siena, Pienza, San Quirico d'Orcia or Bagno Vignoni, and is therefore a famous tourist destination. His fame as a tourist destination has increased after that it's been chosen as location for the filming of the movie "New Moon" of the Twilight saga! Do you dream of visiting the most beautiful area of ​​Tuscany? Then Montepulciano is the perfect destination for you! Discover its must-sees and start planning your trip now! Montepulciano old town center is a beauty. Its highest point is Piazza Grande, which is also the place where events such as "Bravio delle Botti" are organized. This traditional festivity is a competition between the representatives of eight contradas, which must push barrels through the streets of the town. It's here that some of the main monuments of the city are located,that is to say the Dome, Palazzo Comunale, Palazzo Tarugi and Palazzo Contucci. While the Cathedral of Sant'Assunta is the major place of worship in town, the other palaces are magnificent noble buildings. The most important one is Palazzo Comunale (Town Hall), which was commissioned by Cosimo I De'Medici during the Florentine dominion and presents the wonderful Torre dell'Orologio (Clock Tower). Other buildings you should see are the Medici Fortress, which is an ancient castle built in 1261, the Church of Sant'Agostino and the Torre di Pulcinella, a bell tower with a statue of Pulcinella beating on the bell which is shrouded in mystery, as nobody knows the reason why this Neapolitan symbol is put there. After taking some photographs of these splendid monuments, why don't you stroll a little in the elegant "Corso"? The charming road crossing the whole city from Porta al Prato to the Church of Santa Maria dei Servi is where you will find restaurants, bars and many shops to purchase some souvenirs of your fantastic trip! Another symbol of the city is the Church of San Biagio, a chapel located at the foot of the hill and immersed in the typical countryside. The church and its dome can be reached by walking along a path adorned with cypress trees, which also conserves an incredible charm. You'll find yourself in a fabulous place, surrounded by a lovely landscape that seems stolen from the background of a nice postcard. Otherwise, if you'd prefer spending your day in an interesting museum, you can't miss the famous Torture Museum, the Civic Museum or the Pinacoteca Crociani, some art galleries that contain works made by important Sienese and Florentine painters. If you wish to visit Montepulciano, one day is not enough. Take some time to discover the beauties of the historical center or the neighboring villages and enjoy your holiday to the fullest! You can walk along the countryside streets adorned with cypress trees, cross the wheat fields, immerse yourself in the authentic Tuscan beauty or visit the lake of Montepulciano to practice some bird watching. Also, you have the unmissable opportunity to take part to a memorable wine tour inside a local "agriturismo" and taste some food specialties in a good typical restaurant! Some of the dishes you must try are the pappardelle pasta with a meat sauce, the croutons with livers and the pore mushrooms with "ciaccia" bread, which can be accompanied by a glass of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, one of the best red wines in the world. Are you ready for your vacation? Book our Villa Lauretana or Villa Corolle to turn your holiday in Southern Tuscany into a daydream! © Alice Pilastri

If you planned your holiday in the Balearic Islands, you’ve certainly made a good choice! We are talking about a beautiful archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea including five nice islets: Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, Formentera and the small island of Cabrera. The temperate weather is one of the distinctive traits of these so-called “islands of the eternal spring” and they have recently become a major tourist destination. Thus, it is not easy to spot an uncontaminated beach where nature dominates, as they are particularly crowded in the high season. However, these places still have an unparalleled charm and a unique beauty that make it the one different from another. While Ibiza and Formentera are world-known for their incredible nightlife, Mallorca and Menorca are the favourite destinations for couples and travellers looking for some relax. Are you ready to plan your trip? First of all, check out our selection of holiday rentals in Menorca to book your favorite one! These islands can be comfortably reached by plane or boat, offering dozens of options to its visitors. It’s also easy to move from one island to another, thanks to a well-organized series of lines connecting the various ports. Regarding the best time to visit the Balearic Islands, you are lucky: they’re beautiful all year round! Their beautiful weather will make you enjoy pleasant temperatures in each period of the year. And what about the main features of the islands? Let's discover what to see and visit in each of them! The biggest island of the archipelago is Mallorca, a wonderful tourist destination that combines beaches, sea, breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders in a perfect way. Palma de Mallorca is the main city and among the numerous things you need to see, we cannot forget to mention the imposing Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece. The most beautiful beaches are located along the Northern coastline, where you can find the splendid Cala de Sant Vincent and Plaja de Formendor, and in the Southern region, which presents Es Tranc and Cala Egos beaches. The other lovely destination for couples and families in the Mediterranean is Menorca, a cosy islet with a stunning vegetation. In fact, Menorca is part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, as its ecosystem is one of its kind. Its 200 kms of coastline present an infinite series of bays, beaches, cliffs and crystal-clear waters, including the famous beaches of Cala Mitjana and Cala Macarellata. Don’t forget to visit Mahon and Ciutadella, two charming towns with Italian and Arabic architectures. Ibiza doesn’t need any description. Everybody associates it to endless fun, awesome parties, cool nightclubs and large crowds of young people dancing. But as well as owning some of the best clubs of the world, Ibiza also possesses wonderful natural landscapes and historical towns. Its unique ecosystem and architecture have rendered it a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 and a place to discovering its corners through special excursions. It’s an island made of contrast: while the music plays 24h/24 in Playa d’En Bossa and in clubs such as Pacha, families are invited to visit the beautiful centre of Dalt Vila,Puig des Molins necropolis or some charming cathedrals. Ibiza is much more than just parties! Finally, Formentera is Ibiza’s neighbour and the smallest of the Balearics. Its spectacular white beaches and natural walking trails are the main reasons why millions of visitors fall in love with it. Those who are looking for some relax and calm after some days in Ibiza can enjoy the ambiance of some isolated paradise beaches surrounded by nature. Some of the bays that you cannot miss are Playa de Ses Illetes and Plaja de Migjorn, the most famous beaches of the island. The luckiest ones might also meet some of the pink flamingos that come visit Formentera in some periods of the year! © Alice Pilastri

Sicily is a region that should be explored in every corner. Palermo, Agrigento, Cefalù and San Vito Lo Capo are just some of the countless places to visit at least once in your life. Unfortunately, the island is too big and its beauty cannot be appreciated all during a single trip. One of the favorite tours for tourists to discover the so-called "Sicilia Bedda" crosses Eastern Sicily starting from Messina and ending the southernmost point of the whole island, including fascinating beaches and some famous arts towns. Would you like to find out which are the localities you shouldn't miss to see in this area? Here are the 6 places to visit at all costs during your vacation, along with some essential travel tips to guarantee a fabulous experience in Sicily! Starting from the north, the first stop of your journey will inevitably be Taormina, one of the best known tourist destinations in Sicily. Taormina is a wonderful village located on the east coast that preserves a priceless historical and artistic heritage, but also attracts many young people with its lively nightlife. In addition to the wonderful Greek Theater, this city is known for the breathtaking views that overlook the sea or the imposing Mount Etna. Right in front of the historic center is Isola Bella, a small corner of paradise bathed by crystal clear sea. It is inevitable to fall in love with Taormina, which satisfies the expectations of every kind of visitor, including the beach lovers who can dive into its beautifully shaded waters. Once in Taormina, you can't miss the opportunity to do an excursion on Mount Etna,which is located a few kilometers away! You can climb the summit of Europe's highest volcano riding a mountain bike, driving a Jeep, or walking along one of the many hiking trails to fully enjoy this memorable experience. In every season, Etna offers different and unique views. If you are lucky, you will also have the opportunity to watch one of his eruptions and admire the incredible tongues of fire touching the sky. Another place to see at all costs is the beautiful Syracuse and its historic center located on the island of Ortigia. This islet is connected to the mainland with three bridges and preserves countless beauties, including the catacombs, the 7th century Duomo and the so-called "Ear of Dionysius". Buildings of different eras are placed side by side with typical restaurants in the narrow streets of the center. The unparalleled charm of Syracuse is just waiting for you to leave you speechless! Otherwise, if you'd prefer enjoying some sea, sun and beautiful beaches during your holiday, then you need to visit the lovely Vendicari Natural Reserve! This oasis located in the south of Syracuse is a pristine place, where wild nature grows near the turquoise sea. It is the ideal place for excursion lovers, but also for those who would like to rediscover the charm of an ancient environment like the Tonnara, a building located inside it. Here, you will also find some of the most beautiful beaches of the Ionian coast: these small paradises immersed in the green are wonderful places where you can enjoy some relax! Near the Reserve, you will come across the splendid Noto Valley, the area including towns such as Noto, Ragusa Ibla, Modica and Scicli. These famous places are the capitals of the Mediterranean baroque and present some beautiful historical centers, where you can also stop to taste some delicious local specialties. The Cathedral of Noto, the Cathedral of Modica and other charming churches are small architectural jewels that you will not resist to photograph once you arrive. We end our list with the delightful village of Merzamemi , a small fishing village located on the southernmost tip of Sicily. Its colorful houses by the sea embellish the beauty of the old town center, from which it is possible to observe part of the African coast on the horizon. The old "Tonnara", the pretty little port, the bright wall colors and the crystal clear sea make it an absolute "must-see" of eastern Sicily! Ready for your road trip in Eastern Sicily? Start planning your tour booking one of our holiday rentals in the region, like Villa La Plage, located near Siracusa, Villa Vendicari or Villa Rosmarino, both situated next to Noto.

You’ve probably just booked a summer holiday in Mallorca and are looking for the best things to see and do to make your trip memorable, or maybe you are searching for the perfect destination for your next trip to Spain. Actually, there is no better decision than visiting Mallorca! This charming Spanish island offers plenty of activities, tourist attractions, beaches and lovely towns that fascinate all kinds of guests. Also called “Sa Roqueta”, meaning “the small rock”, the largest Balearic island presents a unique territory with both mountains and beaches. Thanks to its temperate weather, a summer vacation in Mallorca is relaxing and pleasant, as it is not as boiling as in other Spanish localities. If you wish to learn more about the precious local traditions and to spend some days immersed in natural beauties, this is surely the perfect summer destination for you! Here are the top things to see and do once you arrive in Mallorca: 1. Get to Soller by train The most enjoyable way to get to the charming harbour of Soller is travelling on the historical wooden train. This historical vehicle retraces old traditions and crosses the enchanting countryside of Sierra de Tramuntana to get to the wonderful town of Soller, a coastal city with a good cuisine and stunning views. 2. Visit the cathedral of Palma de Mallorca The majestic church of La Seu in Palma is incredibly beautiful. It is located in the old town centre and it is a nice example of Gothic architecture in the Mediterranean. There is also the opportunity to book a guided visit to see its amazing terraces, where you can a beautiful view of the city from the top of its roof. 3. Explore La Cuevas Every single tourist itinerary includes “Las Cuevas del Drach”, a series of spectacular caves presenting games of light and shadow. The tour between the four caves is half by foot and half by boat, as they are included between two underground lakes. This natural wonder made of galleries, passages and grottos are breath-taking! 4. Spend a day at the beach As it presents more than 300 beaches, Mallorca is a renowned summer destination. The beaches of Can Pastilla, Es Trenc, Cala Major and Playa Formentor are stunning sandy bays offering comfortable services to its visitors and splendid scenarios. Otherwise, in case you are looking for something quieter, you should visit the beautiful beach of Sa Ràpida and enjoy some pure relax. 5. Enjoy the lively nightlife The Balearic island is known for its amazing clubs, entertainments and parties. The main centres for nightlife are Magaluf, where the youngest can dance until the first light of dawn, Playa de Palma, where there are plenty of pubs and places to have a good beer, and Palma de Mallorca, a chic town offering many elegant clubs in front of the sea. 6. Visit Menorca The small island of Menorca should definitely be your summer escape! This serene destination is where you can enjoy natural beauties, stunning beaches and an absolute relax. Wish to discover more? Read our article about the top beaches to see and the travel tips to read before the beginning of your trip. Looking for a holiday rental near Mallorca? Browse our selection of luxury seaside villas in Menorca to get the best out of your stay! © Alice Pilastri

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

Athens is where it all began. Philosophy, art, democracy and politics were born in a single city in the middle of Greece, which still contains a priceless treasure of architectural beauties. Although Greece is often chosen as a great place to spend summer holidays, benefiting from its beautiful beaches and nightlife, its unique history is the main reason why millions of tourists visit it very year. If you are looking for a lively city with countless things to see, several museums to explore, ancient monuments and a special history to retrace, then there's no place such as Athens to do that. A cultural trip to this town is a spectacular experience that has something magical in it. But which are the best places to see and the top attractions you cannot miss in Athens? Check out our list of the best 6 places to visit and start planning your amazing journey! If you are looking for a charming villa to rent for your stay in Greece, we suggest choosing among our selection of exclusive villas along the coast, which will guarantee a dream holiday to you and your beloved ones. 1. Acropolis it dominates the entire valley and it is visible from almost every corner of the city. Yes, we are talking about the unmistakable Acropolis of Athens, the universal symbol of Greece in the world. The cradle of Ancient civilizations is the largest monumental ensemble in the country. The rocky cliffs dominating the city center is where the most important philosophical ideas and the classical spirit were born. It includes buldings such as the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erectheion and the Propylaia. Although most of the original works of art are now conserved in museums, the Acropolis still conserves a precious charm that has no equals. 2. The National Archaeological Museum This museum is included in the top 10 museums in the world as its art collections are incredibly rich. Retracing the steps of the various civilizations that dominated Greece, the gallery contains masterpieces dating back to the Neolithic, Cycladic, Mycenaean and Ancient Roman periods, fascinating visitors with its wonderful treasures. Among its best-known pieces of art, you will admire th Mask of Agamemnon, the zeus or Poseidon and several Kouroi. 3. The Agora Not far from the Acropolis, you will come across the Agora, the ancient political, religious, administrative and social centre where Socrates was condemned to death in 399 BC. Thanks to a large restoration work, you are able to see the remains of the majestic Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos, the only building to have been completely rebuilt. Surrounded by the lively city, the Agora is still a magical place to make a wonderful journey through time. 4. The Plaka Plaka is the heart of Athens and its most touristic district. Typical tavernas, bars and restaurants fill the lovely paved roads pleasing your tour, making you enjoy beautiful scenarios and live music concerts while you enjoy your Greek meal. The traditional stores offer lots of charming souvenirs to bring home after your stay and each corner of the borough conceals wonders that will make your visit simply unforgettable. 5. The Acropolis Museum At the foot of the Acropolis, there is a modern building inaugurated a few years ago containing some of the beat-known Greek treasures. The Acropolis museum is absolutely a must-see: hosting innumerable artifacts, including the ones found in the area of the Acropolis, this gallery presents a fantastic reproduction of the Parthenon at its top floor made with its original parts. 6. Syntagma Square The heart of Athens is called Syntagma Square! Here, the most important historical events and protest marches took place. The large building dominating it is the Greek Parliament, where “Evzones” wearing typical costumes exhibit during the changing of the guard. © Alice Pilastri

A trip to Tuscany cannot end before making a stop in San Quirico d’Orcia, one of the most famous and photographed villages in the world. Located in the heart of Val d'Orcia, the landscape of San Quirico is simply unique. The grove of cypresses appearing in the middle of the rolling hills and the famous Romanesque chapel standing out in the countryside are two iconic symbols of Tuscany. Countless postcards, magazines, paintings and photographs portray a landscape that has also been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although you might have seen this scenario somewhere, its charm is so immense that it cannot be described by words. San Quirico d'Orcia and Bagni Vignoni are two magical places that need to be seen and discovered in first person to fully appreciate their charm. Start planning your trip to Val d'Orcia and get ready to fall in love with its beauty! Here is a list of the best things to see and visit during your visit. If you are looking for a vacation rental in this region, choose one of our wonderful villas like Villa Cerretalta or Villa Cassia! San Quirico is a small village with Etruscan origins standing on top of a hill halfway between Pienza and Montalcino, along the Via Francigena. This lovely destination can be easily reached from the main roads and it will allow you to discover the most beautiful corners of the Orcia Valley comfortably. Walking along the streets, you will pass next to Romanesque churches and ancient buildings, which confer to the town a unique Medieval aspect. Entering from the door of the defensive walls called "Porta Cappuccini", you will reach a charming town where time seems to have stopped centuries ago. The tourist attractions are many: further to the Medieval remains of the tower called "Torre del Cassero", you can visit noble palaces such as Palazzo Chigi , the beautiful Italian gardens of Horti Leonini and some important century-old churches. Some of these are the Church of Santa Maria Assunta and the Church of San Francesco, which contains a splendid statue made byAndrea della Robbia. From the streets of San Quirico, some some breathtaking landscapes open to the eyes of the toursit. The Val d'Orcia presents contrasts of light, colors and shapes that match perfectly. An alternation of Medieval castles, small villages, woods and vineyards covers the sweet hills. Also, some dreamy nature trails cross golden wheat fields and the bright green meadows, which can be traveled both by foot and bike. This is certainly the most beautiful part of Tuscany, a welcoming region that gives wonderful emotions and positive moments of relax to its guests. In addition to the famous cypresses, another tourist attraction is the Chapel of Madonna di Vitaleta , a small stone church built on a hill overlooking an infinite valley. It is a surreal and mystical place that represents one of the most spiritual sites in Tuscany. Looking for some additional relax? Bagni Vignoni is a town near San Quirico d'Orcia and a renowned thermal destination welcoming all types of guests. Its waters have beneficial properties that have attracted some of the most illustrious personalities of all time, such as Caterina de 'Medici and the artists of the Grand Tour. These places also offer many opportunities for fun and entertainment, as they offer a variety of interesting events throughout the year. The Orcia Wine Festival, the EVO Oil Market, the Eroica cycling race or the "Bagno di Birra" festival are events that welcome thousands of tourists making them discover the local culinary delights in a very special way. © 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

We all know that Spanish cuisine is one of the most delicious and rich. Each region presents plenty of fantastic local dishes and ancient traditions that just wait to be discovered by first-time visitors. Among hundreds of unique food specialties, it is not easy to orient. Those who do not arrive informed just wait to taste the two top symbols of Spain, which collect the best Iberian flavours and mix them in an amazing way: paella and sangria. The sangria is a typical Spanish drink made using red wine, fruits and various types of spirits. The name derives from "sangre", a word meaning "blood" that refers to its dark red colour. Each Spaniard make it in a different way, using homegrown products and inventing variants of all kinds. You might even find a "spicy" sangria, a strawberry sangria or a weird white sangria, made with white wine that confers it a transperent colour. But how can you prepare the perfect traditional sangria? The ingredients you need are a bottle or red table wine, various fruits (like oranges, limes, apples, peaches and strawberries), spirits (Brendy, Sherry and/or Porto), some tablespoons of sugar and spices, especially cinnamon. The procedure is easy: cut the fruit in slices and mix all the ingredients in a large bowl. Dissolve the sugar over a low flame and make a syrup before adding it to the drink. The most important thing is to let the cocktail sit for a few hours, at least two to blend all the flavours in the perfect way. Then... get ready to taste your sangria! The amazing taste will certainly surprise you for its intensity. But drink carefully: Sangria has a 4-12% alcohol content! The history of sangria is controversial. Some suppose it was invented by Romans thousands of years ago, when they conquered the Iberian Peninsula and planted vineyards on its territory. As water could contain bacteria and was not a safe drink, they started to prepare alcoholic drinks such as the Hippocras, made with sugar, wine and spices. Instead, other believe that its origin dates back to the 19th-20th century, specifically in 1964, when the Spanish pavillion presented the Sangria for the first time at the New York World's Fair and made everybody fall in love with it, especially Americans. If you are going to visit Spain soon, do not forget to taste this tasty drink! Perfect with tapas, tortillas, paellas and fish, it will accompany your meals in a very special way. In a restaurant, remember to not mistake it with the "tinto de verano", another local drink made with red wine, which can be sometimes offered as a sangria if mixed with fruits and lemon soda when it is served. Still looking for a holiday rental for your stay? Discover our selection of villas for rent in Menorca and visit this wonderful paradise in the Mediterranean! © Alice Pilastri