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

Is there a better place to spend an unforgettable summer vacation than the Greek islands? We don’t think so! Greece is very renowned for its ancient history and the beautiful cultural heritage that it conserves in the main museums and archaeological sites. Athens is definitely a charming site to see at least once in a lifetime alongside the beauties found in the Dodecanese Archipelago. Moreover, some of its beaches are extremely beautiful, as the transparent waters of the Mediterranean Sea touch splendid sandy coastlines and impressing rocky cliffs. However, we all know that groups of young friends in their 20s are not looking for museums or culture when they travel abroad. Of course, they might appreciate charming landscapes or an interesting museum tour, but summer is when young people want to have fun, meet new friends of their age and enjoy an amazing nightlife. And yes, Greece can offer this and can transform their holiday into a real dream! Here’s a list of the best destinations to choose in case you’re a group of young people looking for fun: follow our travel tips and discover which islands are most suitable for your holiday! 6) Corfu Thousands of young groups choose this destination for their special holiday because fun is guaranteed and prices are moderate. You will always find a nice bar to have a drink, especially in the lively town of Ypsos. Disco clubs such as the Edem Beach Club, Montecristo or 54 Dreamy Nights will make you dance until the first lights of dawn, while pubs like Passoa or Mojitos will start setting your night on fire with some good cocktails! Looking for a holiday rental in Corfu? Choose our Villa Di Giovanni! 5) Ios Ios is a famous party island located between Naxos and Santorini. The main centre for nightlife is Chora, a beautiful town bursting with life in its eastern side and downtown, as it offers a wide variety of charming bars and nightclubs. The wild fun starts on the major beach party scene of Mylopotas and continues in clubs like Disco 69 or the Scorpion Club, where friends between 18 and 25 years old enjoy some crazy nights. 4) Santorini Santorini is one of the major destinations for couples because of its romantic and relaxing atmospheres. However, it is also a lively locality for young people looking for a good nightlife, as it offers many beautiful bars on the beach in Perivolos, Kamari and Perissa and some elegant disco clubs in the town of Fira. And what about an unforgettable apéritif in front of an amazing sunset behind the sea? You really don't want to miss this spectacular scene! 3) Rhodes More than one hundred bars, disco clubs and pubs is what you will find in the main towns of the beautiful island of Rhodes! Here, paradisiac landscapes will be the background of your relaxing days on the beach and the charming frame of your nights of fun. While "Bar Street" in Rhodes City offers bars with any kind of music, discoclubs like Paradiso Beach Club or Blue Lagoon will be open until 7am to make you dance on the music of the best-known DJs. 2) Zakynthos This wonderful Ionian Island presents some of the most photographed beaches of the world. Though it is definitely a romantic place to visit in couple, the summer season is when the best nightlife events are organized and when hundreds of visitors looking for crazy fun crowd its towns. If you are looking for wild dancing nights, you can't miss Tsilivi, Boschali, Vassilikos and their amazing clubs, while if you prefer enjoying a good cocktail in front of the sea you should spend an evening at the bars of Laganas. And why don't you take part to a buzzing boat or beach party? It's the best way to enjoy Zakynthos to the fullest! 1) Mykonos The island of Mykonos is the craziest nightlife destination of the Mediterranean. This “Greek Ibiza” is a wild mix of beach bars, parties on the beach, famous disco clubs and memorable nights dancing with the best DJs of the world. While Mykonos Town is a charming locality with typical Greek buildings and lovely mills to capture in a photo, those who are looking for great places to dance and make new friends are clubs such as Tropicana, Cavo Paradiso, Space Club and the Skandinavian Bar. Enjoy these endless nights in one of the livelier summer destinations and watch the dawn next to your best friends! © Alice Pilastri

He’s one of the main Italian Baroque artists, known in every part of the world for his wonderful masterpieces. What distinguishes his artworks is the complexity of the positions, the fake perspectives, the great dinamism and the incredible scenographic composition. We’re talking about Gian Lorenzo Bernini, a sculptor who spent most of his life in Rome and who produced some beautiful works of art for Popes like Urban VIII or Innocent X. Almost all his statues are conserved in the Roman museums, but it’s not easy to orient yourself between the tons of monuments that embellish this city. Here’s why we offer a guide to the places you need to visit to admire his wonderful sculptures to be able to see all of them in a few days! If you are looking for a property to rent in Rome, choose our Rielli Apartment, Villa Aloe or Casale Fiano Romano, which are some beautiful holiday rentals near this city. - Galleria Borghese The museum is located inside Villa Borghese Pinciana in Rome, a palace dating back to the 17th century. Further to Berninis’ works, the rich collection that belonged to Scipione Borghese includes some masterpieces by Caravaggio, Canova or Titian. The first statue made by Bernini is the “Capra Amaltea”, a work dating back to 1609 presenting a goat breastfeeding Jupiter and a faun which was firstly believed Hellenic. There are also “Enea, Anchise and Ascanio” and the famous “Rape of Proserpina”, a wonderful work of art representing Pluton in the act of kidnapping the woman. Erotism, tragedy and an excellent technical ability in the making of soft silhouettes are the main features of this work. In the Gallery you will also find the “David”, which is a scenographic statue with a Biblic theme, the busts of Scipione Borghese and “Apollo and Daphne”, a stunning masterpiece portraying a nymph in the moment of her transformation into a laurel oak. If you wish to visit this museum, we remind you that it is necessary to book a ticket in large advance. - Basilica di San Pietro Bernini worked inside the main church of Rome for many years. For example, he made the majestic Canopy located in front of the altar under the commission of Pope Urban VIII and the resulti s just amazing: the monumental masterpiece is 30 meters high and it is richly decorated with various kinds of materials. Also, he worked on the square’s Colonnade in 1657 and chose to locate the columns in a way that tey “hugged” the worshippers reunited in front of the Pope. Bernini even produced the famous Saint Peter’s Pulpit, the funerary monument of Urban VIII, which is decorated with the allegories of Charity and Justice, and the wonderful monument of Pope Alexander VII. - Piazza Barberini This is one of Rome’s main squares and it hosts the amazing Fontana del Tritone, further to Palazzo Barberini, where Bernini worked for long. - Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie In this church, a wonderful work of art is conserved. It is called “Ecstasy of Saint Teresa d’Avila” and it is famous for the theatrality of expressions and incredible scenography. - Piazza Navona In this charming square of the old town center there is a stunninf fountain clleed Fontana dei Fiumi, representing the four main world riversa s allegories of the four continents. It’s a work that needs to be observed from different points of view and it is located in front of Palazzo Pamphilij, where Bernini also worked for some years. © Alice Pilastri

Tuscany is not just sweet hill and arts towns, but much more! In summer, the famous islands forming its Archipelago get huddled with thousands of tourists came to appreciate their beauties and dive into the wonderful sea. The seven paradises included in the National Park of the Tuscan Archipelago are the islands of Elba, Giglio, Giannutri, Pianosa, Montecristo, Capraia and Gorgona. Schools of colored fishes and a special type of flora grows in this protected and uncontaminated area. This is why it is not easily accessible and, in some cases, you even need to book your visit in large advance or to take advantage of extraordinary occasions that allow visitors to reach their coasts. However, if you are lucky enough to be part of these "chosen ones", you will admire some views and visit beaches that will certainly make this experience unforgettable! But what should you see on these islands and how can you reach them? Follow our travel tips and start planning your memorable tour in this Thyrrenian Sea atoll! Also, if you are looking for the perfect holiday rental to book for your stay, choose Casale Argentario in Porto Santo Stefano! 1) Elba Island The largest island of the Archipelago is the perfect base for your tour to the discovery of the nearby places! Elba is an ideal summer destination: breathtaking views, splendid beaches and countless ways that young people have to enjoy their vacation to the fullest make it popular in the months of July and August. The narrow streets immersed in the green Meediterranean scrub conceal some marvellous glimpses and important monuments, like those connected to Napoleon's exile period. How to reach it? Elba Island is connected to the ports of Piombino, Livorno and San Vincenzo with a daily ferry line. It's also possible to get there by plane landing at the small Marina di Campo airport. 2) Pianosa Island This island is a small trait of emerged land known for being very flat ("piana" in Italian), as its maximum elevation is 29 meters above the sea level. For years, Pianosa has been a maximum-security prison and it was closed to the public, but as soon as it was shut in 1998 it became a well-loved tourist destination! Who reaches the island can enjoy this exclusive location, have fun on a kayak tour to see its hidden caves or relax on the large beach of Cala Giovanna, while sleeping in this desert island under a flaming starry sky surrounded by an incredible silence is a privilege reserved to the lucky guests of its only hotel. How to reach it? A daily ferry connection departs from the ports of Rio Marina and Marina di Campo, but it is better to book the trip in advance as places on board are limited. 3) Giglio Island Lily Island is the second biggest islet of the Archipelago. As well as being famous for the Costa Concordia shipwreck in 2012, Giglio offers some stunning beaches in the area of Campese and tourists can experience wonderful boat trips, scuba diving or incredible snorkeling activities. While the area of Giglio Porto looks like a pictoresque fishermen village, the center of Giglio Castello presents some splendid Medieval buildings to see at all costs. How to reach it? It is possible to get to the island departing from Porto Santo Stefano, which is a coastal locality near Grosseto. 4) Montecristo Island The island of Alexandre Dumas's Count is a remote and uncontaminated place with a fragile ecosystem that it is only possible to visit with a special permission. The purity and the extreme tranquillity of this unique islet fascinates all the fortunate guests and it conciliated the meditation of a community of monks that has resided here until 1971. How to reach it? You need to request a permission to "Corpo Forestale di Follonica" paying €50, but waiting times are very long and they can last for more than two years. 5) Capraia Island Steep seafront cliffs, isolated beaches, a blooming vegetation and an arid inland are some of the characteristics of Capraia Island, which is a tiny volcanic island near Gorgona. It's an authentic and wild land with rocky coasts and small inhabited centers near the port and the castle of San Giorgio is frequented by rare species of birds and is chosen by many tourists looking for a relaxing ambiance. How to reach it? The island can be reached from Elba, Livorno or San Vincenzo, where daily ferries depart everyday. 6) Giannutri Island Giannutri is the southernmost island of the Archipelago and its rocky coast hides some beautiful marine caves. Snorkeling lovers and scuba divers will find a treasure of coral and rare fish species, while history enthusiasts have the opportunity to visit the majestic Roman Villa dating back to the first century BC. How to reach it? You can get to the island with one of the boats departing from Giglio Island or Porto Santo Stefano. 7) Gorgona Island The minuscule island of Gorgona is a heaven on Earth located north, in the middle of the Ligurian Sea. Visitors are welcome to explore its private beaches, the hidden caves and the numerous natural wonders behind each corner as this is a real eden of tranquillity. Howver, it is also a famous prison and it is only possible to visit it in small groups accompanied by a guide. How to reach it? The ferries directed to Gorgona Island depart from Livorno, but available tickets are limited. © Alice Pilastri

Every year, millions of tourists crowd the localities forming the famous Amalfi Coastline to admire the wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, a day trip to this place can transform into a frustrating and unpleasant experience if you forget to organize it properly. The very high temperatures, the confusion and the endless queues might ruin a visit to this wonderful tourist destiation! Here's why we prepared a guide to the best towns to visit during your tour in the Amalfi Coastline to allow you to choose your favorites spending a sensational time here! - Sorrento Sorrento rises up at the beginning of the Amalfi Coastline and it undoubtedly is the best place to start your tour. As it's comfortable, extremely accessible and near Pompeii and Naples, Sorrento is the ideal base to choose for your visit, although it is huddled all-year. The footsteps left by the various civilizations that dominated this ancient tourist locality mixed to create some stunning ambiances in the middle of some of the best landscapes of the world. This "land of colors" known as the "city of gardens" is a treasure of art and culture to be discovered step by step. - Sant'Agata and Nerano Sant’Agata is an adorable town separating two nice gulfs whose panorama includes the majestic figure of Mount Vesuvius. This trait of coastline is absolutely spectacular and breathtaking views combine with some inestimable remains of the Greek civilization. Next to it we have Nerano, a lovely fishermen village located inside the Marine Reserve of Punta Campanella whose crystalline waters and rocky sea bottom attract scuba divers from all Europe. But don't worry: not only nature lovers will enjoy this destination, but also "bon vivants"! Taste the delicious spaghetti with zucchini pesto, Monti Lattari cheese or Sant'Anna tomato in one of the local specialties prepared in this heaven on earth! - Positano In Positano, pastel-colored houses built on top of steep cliffs face the waters of a wonderful sea. This "vertical town" must be explored hiking a staircase after the other, but the panoramic views seen from the highest spot are worth the effort! Many celebrities choose it as their summer holiday destination, as they like the lively nightlife offered by the exclusive seafront clubs, where fun is always guaranteed. But generally, if you love shopping, luxury, sandy beaches, chic and glamour localities, Positano is certainly the perfect destination fro you! - Conca dei Marini and Praiano These two towns situated between Amalfi and Positano are considered the most romantic localities of the whole Costiera. Their beaches are fabulous, the views become incredibly beautiful at sunset and the glimpse found along the "Sentiero degli Dei" are something unique. The two small "borghi" near the sea are inhabited by less than a thousand people and their tranquillity will make you enjoy the true Italian "dolce vita" next to your beloved ones! - Amalfi and Atrani Amalfi is the biggest city found in the Costiera and surely one of the best-known alongside Positano. This town is a destination that can adapt to every visitor's need and it can be appreciated by everyone, both those who love luxury and those who look for art and culture. In fact, the past of Amalfi as a Maritime Republic enriched the city of some wonderful buildings dating back to the Middle Ages and to other important monuments. Then we have Atrani, one of the smallest villages of Southern Italy whose beauty is just as great as Amalfi's. Are you looking for a holiday rental in Amalfi? Choose La Maison dei Desideri! - Ravello Ravello is a small village castled on a seafront rock cliff. It does not have a direct beach access, but it is the perfect place to be to relax and enjoy the quiet surrounded by stunning panoramas. It is surely one of the most romantic localities and it's very famous for its colorful gardens and splendid villas. - Maiori e Minori Are you travelling with your family and you're looking for a place where your children can have fun as well? Then Maiori and Minori are tthe ideal destinations for you, thanks to their large sandy beaches with equipped lidos! Here you will even find the remains of a splendid Roman Villa, a charming cave called "Grotta di Pandora", countless panoramic terraces to take pictures from, lemon trees cultivations and excellent typical restaurants to taste a good pasta! - Vietri sul Mare Vietri sul Mare is a tiny town near Salerno that became famous because of its rich production of ceramic objects. The village itself seems to be covered by majolica and the magnificent colors of its decorations make it incredibly wonderful! Are you looking for a holiday rental? Choose one of our Villas on the Amalfi Coastline! © Alice Pilastri

Corfu is a wonderful gem of the Mediterranean Sea. This fabulous Greek island is part of the Ionian archipelago and can be easily reached from Italy, as ferries sail everyday from ports like Brindisi or Ancona. A lively nightlife, innumerable natural beauties, splendid beaches and historical treasures are just some of the reasons why millions of young tourists or families decide to spend here their summer holidays. The Ionian Islands offer an immersion in Greek mythology, nature with their sandy beaches and beautiful olive groves. But which are the best places to visit in Corfu? If you would like to plan your trip to this Greek island in the best way, follow our travel tips and check our list of the top 7 places you absolutely need to see! If you are looking for a holiday rental for your stay, we suggest booking our Villa Di Giovanni or Beach Villa Blue, that will surely guarantee a dream stay near the sea. Don't miss our selection of villas in Corfu. 7) Relax in Paleokastritsa This village located on Corfu west coast is intimate and extremely beautiful. Famous for its ancient monastery, visited by pilgrims and worshippers looking for the magic of such a sacred place, Paleokastritsa is also a major summer destination in Corfu because of its wonderful beaches. It presents six stunning bays and it is the ideal site to spend a relaxing afternoon under the sun! 6) Explore the streets of Corfu Town The main city of the island is a pastel-colored gem built in wood and stone that presents countless Venetian buildings. Corfu Town is a UNESCO “World Heritage Site” to explore and discover in all its corners that will certainyl stun you with beautiful places such as the Liston, the Old Fortress, Spilias Square or Saint Spyridon Church. 5) Visit the amazing Cape Drastis We are on the northern point of the island and definitely one of the most charming. Near Sidari, on the north-western coast, there is a stunning clay cliff called Cape Drastis which is surrounded by woods and olive trees. Its beauty is undescribable and it is a stop you really do not want to miss! 4) Swim in the famous Canal d'Amour The “love canal” is a romantic site where it is believed that those who swim in its waters will marry soon. The beauty of its rock formations is stunning and it is very visited in summer, both by lovers and tourists. 3) Go out on an adventure trip to Paradise Beach Paradise Beach is the name of a wonderful destination near Paleokastritsa that can only be reached by boat. The silence and the quiet of this natural context will make you fall in love with this natural reserve that many visitors choose to reach to escape the confusion of the crowded cities. Board on a boat departing from harbors such as Ypsos and discover its unique white cliffs, blooming vegetation and transparent waters! 2) Get to the magical island of Vlacherna Monastery You have probably spotted a small island in the middle of the sea from one of Corfu’s main roads. This charming piece of land hosts the small Vlacherna Monastery, a sacred site built in 1685. It is connected to the coast with a stone bridge, but we suggest sailing on a boat to enjoy a beautiful tour. 1) Take a picture to the wonderful Porto Timoni This is maybe the best beach of the island! Porto Timoni is located a few kilometers from Paleokastritsa and its strip of land separating the two stunning coves is what distinguishes Corfu. Visit this site and spend a memorable time there! © Alice Pilastri

A trip to Sicily...why not? What Italians call “Sicilia Bedda” is a treasure full of beauties and different cultures that mix in the middle of wonderful natural atmospheres. An area that will certainly make you fall in love is the North West coastline, corresponding to the three provinces of Palermo, Trapani and Agrigento. Here, you will not be able to find the words to describe the beauty right in front of your eyes and you will really think to live inside a wonderful dream. Do you have few time to visit Sicily but you still desire to discover the best tourist attractions of this region? Here's a list of the best must-dos and must-sees in Western Sicily! This top 10 will be essentail for your tour and it will make you come back home with no regrets, happy for being able to see everything that was worth a visit. 10) Discover the charm of Erice It is one of tourists' favorite destinations in Sicily, as they love its splendid location, the wonderful panoramic view of the city of Trapani and the beauties of the old town center. Erice if considered one of Italy's most charming "borghi" and it presents ancient monuments such as the castle of Venus and Balio, Torretta Pepoli, Phoenician-Punic city walls or the magnificent Spanish District. Are you looking for a holiday rental in Erice? Book our Villa Erice! 9) Walk along the streets of Mazara del Vallo center The historical center of Mazara Del Vallo is certainly one of the most peculiar of the island. Here, different cutlures weave together in an amazing way and transform the town into an adorable place. Do not forget to go see the Moroccan Kasbah, the rests of Sant'Ignazio Basilica or go walking along the seaview promenade to spend a relaxing and pleasant afternoon! Are you looking for a holiday rental in Mazzara del Vallo? Book our Villa Oasi! 8) Visit San Vito lo Capo Those who love sandy beaches and clear sea waters can have a great time on San Vito Lo Capo coastline, which is one of the major Sicilian tourist destinations! Moreover, the history of San Vito is rich of interesting events and there are innumberable centyr-old monuments that you can admire during your city tour, like the beautiful San Crescenzia Chapel. Are you looking for a holiday rental in San Vito Lo Capo? Book our Villa Afrodite! 7) Taste the Pane Cunzato One of the dishes you should really try is the “pane cunzato”, which is a special kind of "seasoned bread"! This Sicilian loaf is produced by many town bakeries and was invented in Scopello, where it is traditionally flavored with a lot of extra-virgin olive oil, first-salt Sicilian cheese, tomatoes, anchovies and oregano. Taste it and discover its explosive gusto! Are you looking for a holiday rental in Scopello? Book our Villa Contrada! 6) Dive from the amazing Scala dei Turchi Scala dei Turchi is the name of a singular white reef located on Realmonte coast, not far from the main city of Agrigento. This cliff emerging from the sea water is now a popular tourist attraction that became famous for being the location of a famous Italian series called “Il Commissario Montalbano”. Are you looking for a holiday rental near Realmonte? Book our Villa Agorà! 5) Admire the picturesque views of Cefalù This splendid seafront village does not really need a description! Cefalù is located in the province of Palermo and its charm was even awarded by UNESCO, which recognized it as a "World Heritage Site". The sandy beach, the Cathedral, the "Rocca" and its beautiful old town center donates unique emotions to all its visitors (discover more about Cefalù here)! Are you looking for a holiday rental in Cefalù?Book our Villa Nettuno! 4) Travel on the roads of the Natural Reserve of Saline Both Marsala and Trapani are two centers that deserve to be visited at least once during your trip. However, what is considered as one of Sicily's most impressing places is the road connecting the two cities, which becomes particularily charming when the sunrays reflect on Saline's waters at sunset. This "Salt Road" presents some incredible natural landscapes and an unmissable museum! Are you looking for a holiday rental near Trapani? Book our Villa Salinella! 3) Take a picture to the beauties found in Palermo and Monreale Arab, Christian, Greek, Phoenician, Norman and Ostrogoth, the history of Palermo (discover more about Palermo here) is an incredible mix of cultures and arts! Monuments and places of interest are countless: enter Palazzo dei Normanni, Palazzo della Zisa or the Palatine Chapel to admire its magnificent decorations, otherwise visit the beautiful city of Monreale to see the stunning Dome. Are you looking fora holiday rental in Palermo? Book our Villa Vincenzo! 2) Spend a day at "Tonnara di Scopello" and Riserva dello Zingaro Staying at San Vito Lo Capo, you have the opportunity to visit Scopello and its famous Tonnara. This 17th century town is a relaxing and quiet place which is well-known for the sea stacks that come out from the splendid sea. Don't miss the Riserva dello Zingaro, which is a natural oasis that will surely surprise you leaving you speechless. Are you looking for a holiday rental near Riserva dello Zingaro? Book our Villa Contrada! 1) Time travel in the wonderful archaeological parks of Agrigento, Segesta and Selinunte It's in Sicily that you can find the remains of some splendid Magna Graecia's polis. The best-known is Agrigento, whose “Valle dei Templi” conserves ten ancient temples (discover more about Agrigento here). Other interesting destinations are Selinunte, where there is Europe's biggest archeological park, and Segesta, a Greek city founded in the 9th century BC that exhibits an inttact temple. Are you looking for a holiday rental in Agrigento? Book our Villa Agorà! © Alice Pilastri

Who hasn't drunk a glass of a good Chianti red wine at least once? It is almost impossible to resist to such a delight in Tuscany! This variety of wine is one of the famous enogastronomic specialities you can find in Central Italy and it is produced in a large territory between Florence and Siena. Maybe someone who was drinking it also noticed that on the neck of the bottle there is the figure of a black rooster in the middle of a yellow and red circle. And, who knows? Maybe he also visited the magnificent Salone dei Cinquecento inside Palazzo Vecchio on the same day and heard guide pointing out a specific detail on the wonderful ceiling that represented a black rooster inside a shield. But then...what does this mean and where does this symbol come from? The abovementioned fresco shows the ”Allegory of Chianti”, which is the name of a beautiful territory guarded jealously by the Florentines. The representation on the shield is the coat of arms belonging to Lega del Chianti , which was an important alliance between the cities of this region dating back to 1384. In fact, the emblem of the Black Rooster has a mythical nature. In the Middle Ages, the Republics of Florence and Siena incessantly fought against each other and the main clash concerned the definition of the border between the two States and the control of the territory that separated them. After decades of battles, the two parties decided to cease the hostilities leaving the fateful decision to...two roosters. They established a date and agreed that the first rooster to wake up and start singing would make its knight depart from the city he represented to race towards the rival town. The spot where the two knights would meet would establish the new definitive borderline between the two States. Chance assigned a black rooster to Florence and a white one to Siena. Seneses began to take care of their "champion" with good manners, feeding it abundantly. On the other hand, Florentines adopted a different strategy and put the animal inside a dark cage, leaving few food to make it hungry and desperate. As the D-Day dawn began, the black rooster exited the cage rapidly and started to sing loudly. His signal came to the Florentine knight, who began his horse race galloping for kilometers. Instead, the white cock did not want to leave the place where it had received all kinds of attentions and did not wake up before the sun had got up in the sky. When it sang, the Senese knight left his town but he couldn't fill the gap of time between him and his enemy. He ran for a bit more than 12 kilometers and met the other knight in a locality called Fonterutoli: the Florentine had arrived there after running for more than 100 kilometers! Here's the reason why the region of Chianti almost completely passed under Florence's control, a few years before even the city of Siena was conquered by the rival. Since then, the grapes growing in this region would produce a type of wine called “Chianti”. In 1716,the Grand Duke of Tuscany set the borders of the region of production instituting one of the first examples of "Denominazione di Origine Controllata"or DOC (registered designations of origin). In 1932, the “Consorzio Gallo Nero” was founded, but it changed its name to “Consorzio Chianti Classico” in 1992 because of the verdict of an American Court, which assigned the exclusive use of the name "Gallo" to identify a wine to the Californian Ernst Gallo Winery society. So, here's the history hidden behind what is considered the best wine of the world! Wouldn't you like to taste its unique flavor in one of the most charming locations ever? Then choose one of our Wine Tours in Tuscany or book a memorable holiday in Chianti with us!   © Alice Pilastri

Since the beginning of April until the end of October, all those who are staying in Florence have the opportunity to visit a charming park located north of the city center. We are in Pratolino (Vaglia), on top of one of the innumerable hills that distinguish the Tuscan countryside and which are crossed by wonderful panoramic roads, where the simple act of travelling becomes a great pleasure. It is here that you will find the Medici Park of Pratolino, and enormous garden surrounding the modern Villa Demidoff. This is a magical place with an ancient history that hosted some of the most important Florentine noble families and whose decorations were made by prestigious artists. Today, it is also the day trip destination chosen by hundreds of people who wish to spend a relaxing afternoon under the trees' shadow and who are always left speechless in front of the incredible beauty of the artistic frame they see around them. The Park is situated in front of a Medici Villa built in 1568 by Buontalenti, who worked for Francis I. He wanted to make a luxurious and richly decorated building, where art would mix with nature and science to create a fairytale place. Its enormous "garden of wonders" extended for 20 hectares and included fountains, games of water, labyrinths, artificial caves, magnificent gardens and some impressing artworks. However, the building was abandoned following the death of Francis I and his wife and the first restoration works were carried out in the 19th century by the Lorraines, who almost demolished it completely. The family sold the property to a Russian prince called Pavel Demidoff in 1872 and it was him who built his own villa above the reamins of the previous strusture. This new Romantic-style villa was then bought by the Province of Florence in 1981 and in 2013 the site has been included in UNESCO's "World Heritage Sites" with other Medici Villas in Tuscany. Hopefully, the wonderful Park still conserves some of the wonderful Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces. The most famous one is certainly the statue of the "Apennine Colossus" made by Giambologna in 1580 ca. representing the allegory of the mountain as a giant who seem to come out from the lake waters. The sculpture also hides some caves and rooms which are accessible through an internal staircase. Furthermore, this splendid place is ideal for trekking and nordic walking lovers, who can enjoy its nature at the fullest. As the Park is a natural reserve, it also hosts many protected animal species, small woods and century-old trees. The huge garden is the perfect spot to choose for a picnic or a relaxing day out with your family, especially on sunny days! If you are looking for a property to rent for your stay, we suggest booking one of our countryhouses, like Villa Mugello, Villa Caruso and Villa Tenuta Lonciano, or our Suite Michelangelo if you prefer staying in Florence's center. © Alice Pilastri

Cefalù is a splendid fishermen village near Palermo, located in Northern Sicily. Some of the best beaches of the entire region are hidden here, alongside some stunning sites of interest that you cannot miss to visit during your tour. Its unique beauty has been awarded by UNESCO as it inserted its Cathedral, the Cloister, the Seminary and Palazzo Vescovile among its "World Heritage Sites". In summer, thousands of tourists come to throng this picturesque town embedded in the stone which is also defined one of Italy's most beautiful "borghi". The monuments and places of interest are innumerable: discover where you can find them to plan your short trip in best way! First of all, you must take advantage of a sunny day to go to the seaside and spend a nice day on the beach! The Lido di Cefalù is located near the city and it will allow you to look at the center from a new wonderful point of view. Its crystalline waters, the various services offered and the shallow seabed make it a perfect place to visit with your family, as you'll have the opportunity to enjoy this special atmosphere in total tranquillity. Another beach we recommend is Spiaggia Caldura, which is suitable for those who love diving from cliffs and doing water sports. A stop of your tour should definitely be the magnificent Cathedral built by Ruggero II in an Arab-Norman style in the 12th century. This church presents a Latin cross planimetry and a façade with two majestic stone towers, while its interiors feature some wonderful golden mosaics. Instead, one of the best panoramic views of Cefalù belongs to its Rocca, which is a stone fortress located on top of a hill 340 meters high connected to the center through a pathway immersed in the green. Another beautiful spot to take photographs is Porta Marina, the only still-existing arch part of the stone city walls built in the 5th century BC. However, Cefalù is a treasure chest containing countless artistic wonders which are hidden in every angle of its center and date back to ancient times. Here, you will find a magnificent 19th century theater, a Medieval wash house, Roman findings, Renaissance buildings and other bijoux that mix with the splendid landscape to create a place you will really not want to leave. Book one of our villas in Cefalù to spend a memorable time in Sicily! We suggest our Villa Rocca or Villa Nettuno! © Alice Pilastri

Only about ten kilometers from the sea rises the beautiful town of Pisa, which is divided in two by River Arno. It is believed that its origins are ancient and that the city was founded by the Ligurians, although it soon passed under the control of Longobards and then to the Marquisate of Tuscany. During the following three centuries, it became a major Maritime Republic and won innumerable battles, while the 11th and 12th centuries saw the flourishing of the arts thanks to artists such as Nicola Pisano or Arnolfo di Cambio, who built the famous monuments that millions of tourists still come to see and photograph. Further to be a wonderful arts towns to visit during a holiday in Tuscany, it hosts some of the best universities of the world, such as the "Scuola Normale Superiore". Pisa became part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1860 and it is now a young, lively student city full of architectural wonders. Would you like to visit this wonderful city? Then follow our travel tips and discover which are the best things to see in this ancient Tuscan town to organize your tour in the best way! Moreover, have a look to our wonderful holiday rentals near Pisa to get the best out of your time: we suggest our Villa De Ranieri or Villa Bonriposo! 1) The Cathedral This Romanesque-Pisan masterpiece was built in 1063 by the architect Buschetto, but the works were carried out by Rainaldo. It has a Latin cross shape and a well-decorated façade presenting five order of arches and three bronze portals. The church is made with the prestigious white Carrara marble and its interiors present several artworks. The most impressing is the pulpit made by Giovanni Pisano in the 14th century, which features some decorative scenes inspired by the Bible. Enter this magnificent building and get astonished in front of its beauty! 2) The Baptistery This majestic white building built by architects Diotisalvi and Nicola Pisano is 55 meters tall and it has a diameter of over 35 meters. The external decorations were added later and inside it there is an imposing Baptismal Font, further to a gorgeous pulpit made by Nicola Pisano. If you are in Piazza dei Miracoli, you cannot skip to enter this major monument! 3) The Tower The Hanging Tower of Pisa has been called one of the world's seven wonders and it is a really unique monument. Its gradient is due to a collapse of the ground during its building, which started in 1194 under the direction of Bonanno Pisano. Every year its gradient increases, so mant restoration works has been carried out recently to avoid its falling. It is fully visitable and it is possibile to reach its top climbing a staircase: from its beautiful terrace, you'll enjoy a wonderful view over the whole city! 4) The Museum of the Cathedral This special museum was organized in 1896 in a pre-existing building called "Casa dei Canonici". It develops in 23 halls and it includes corridors, galleries and a beautiful cloister. Its amazing works were transferred here from the Baptistery, the Cathedral and the Tower, so it presents various important art masterpieces. Buy a ticket and get inside! 5) The Monumental Cemetery The so-called "Camposanto" is a churchyard which is today the seat of an important museum and it is divided from Piazza dei Miracoli by a long marble wall with blind arches. Entering the building, you will be struck by the elegance of the architecture and by the beautiful frescoed walls, which overlook halls with statues, sarcophaguses and important Italian artworks. 6) Piazza dei Cavalieri This Piazza is a vast irregular square around which rise many artistically important buildings. The most important is the palace hosting the "Scuola Normale di Pisa", which was built by Vasari in the 16th century, but you will also find the splendid Palazzo dell'Orologio, Palazzo dei Cavalieri, Chiesa di Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri, the Fountain and the Statue of Cosimo I de'Medici. While you can appreciate the luxuriant beauty of this site by day, you will see a very different scenario by night, when the square gets crowded by students and young groups of friends that like to spend here their free time. 7) The Museum of the Sinopie This museum overlooks Piazza dei Miracoli and it was built in 1257 by Giovanni de Simone as a home for the sick and the poor. Later, it was turned into a hospital and it is now an interesting museum conserving "sinopie", which are the first sketches of frescoes drawn on prepared walls. Its masterpieces were made by art geniuses such as Giotto, Buonamico di Buffalmacco or Spinello Aretino. 8) The Church of Santa Maria della Spina If you have been to Pisa, you have certainly seen this peculiar building near River Arno. This church was built in 1323 in Gothic style and, for some time, it contained a thorn from Jesus crown on the Cross. It is definitely a place to see and photograph if you are walking on the Lungarno Gambacorti! 9) The National Museum of San Matteo This museum is placed on the banks of River Arno, next to the beautiful palazzo medici. It is one of Italy's major museums, as it contains some inestimable works by Maestros from the 12th-13th centuries. Marble sculptures, lovely paintings, statues and frescoes will make your visit very pleasant! 10) The Old Cittadella The Cittadella is an ancient fortress built near the city walls and it was built in the 13th century. After the destructions caused by the wars between the Pisans and the Florentines, it was rebuilt by Ferdinando I in the 15th century. Unfortunately it is not possible to visit it, but you can stil admire its beauty from the outside. 11) The Luminara and the historic Regatta of San Ranieri The Luminara takes place every year on the night between June 16th and 17th in honour of San Ranieri, the town's Patron Saint. It is an incredible event, during which all the building overlooking the river are lit up and the fireworks reflect their colors on its waters. On June 17th, Pisa organizes the beautiful "Regata Storica", in which men dressed in historic costumes row richly decorated ancient boats. © Alice Pilastri