Work

While many people worry about being able to find a new job (and especially one that will give them enough free time to continue to enjoy their hobby walking in Italy), there is an alternative that can be overlooked. Telecommuting has become a realistic option for plenty of people with office jobs, and advances in the quality of video conferencing (as well as the free high-quality services by Facebook, Google, and Skype) make meetings and reports as effective as they would be in person. With a little organisation to overcome any time differences between home base and your new ‘office’, telecommuting can become a simple solution to the dilemma of finding more work.

Housing and Travel

Depending on the place where you originally travel from, the size and scope of housing available in Italy might be a bit different to what you are used to. Visitors from the USA, for example, often find that the living quarters are far smaller, and a little older. The public transport, though, may be substantially better than you expect, especially living in a more urban area in Italy. Almost everything a newcomer needs to find, such as shopping, groceries, and business services is often a just brisk walk or a quick jaunt on public transport away.

Cooking

If there’s one reason that lures travellers to a permanent relocation after a holiday walking in Italy, it’s the idea of being able to experiment with Italian and European cuisine in the heart of a country famous for its recipes. You could spend a small fortune eating in the usual tourist restaurants on a short trip to Italy, but with the opportunity to buy fresh groceries every day, create your own meals and discover the smaller, lesser known eateries and cafes local people enjoy, you might just discovery a culinary odyssey waiting for you.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Join us walking in Italy to see scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries.

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The Colosseum

One of Rome’s most famous tourist attractions, the Colosseum was built somewhere between 70 and 80 AD, and is one of the most iconic historical buildings in Rome, and the one that is often selected to depict the grandeur of the ancient Roman civilisation – along with its bloodthirsty and brutal nature! During its heyday, the Colosseum could hold 50,000 or more spectators for its different events.

The Vatican

Another location in Rome (although technically it is its own country), the Vatican is the official residence of the Pope, and also boasts some of the most stunning architecture you’re likely to see in the whole of your travels walking in Italy. One particular attraction of the Vatican is the Sistine Chapel – its roof painted by Michelangelo and its dome being a timeless piece of artwork that never fails to impress visitors

The Tower of Pisa

This is one architectural marvel that was amazingly not intended at the time of its creation. In Pisa, a tower constructed in 1173 began slowly to lean to the side; viewed today, the famous leaning tower of Pisa is a marvel, and has become one of the most-visited sites in the country.

Venice’s Canals

Venice (sometimes known to those on holidays walking in Italy as the ‘Sinking City’) is a legendary destination. Many people regard visiting Venice as an essential experience in life, partly due to the unique canals which provide transportation around the city. The architectural beauty of the city is unmatched, and the cuisine is to die for! Visitors can have a break from their travels on foot by taking a gondola ride through the city – a romantic experience that has to be tried to be believed.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Join us walking in Italy to see scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries.

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The City

Until the year 79 AD, the city of Pompeii was a bustling, thriving Roman city of about 20,000 inhabitants. During the peak dominance of the Roman Empire, it was a popular destination for wealthy Romans to visit on holiday, much as people go walking in Italy in modern times! The city, having been built at least in 300 BC, was older than the current age of the United States, and life would have featured several surprisingly modern developments. There were theatres, temples, a central swimming pool, a gymnasium, a hotel, and numerous restaurants. Many of the buildings had running water, brought by an aqueduct.

The Eruption

While there were signs leading up to the volcanic eruption (residents of the city were used to regular rumblings!) until a string of earthquakes began, residents of the city had continued about their everyday business. The very day Mount Vesuvius erupted, the inhabitants of the city were celebrating the feast day of Vulcan – the Roman god of fire, amongst other things. This coincidence is one of the key points in the story of Pompeii lasting to this day, and thrilling groups walking in Italy. A 20ft high column of smoke and ash rose from Mount Vesuvius then rained ash and pumice stone all over the city – burying Pompeii about 18ft deep.

History Come To Life

The buried city remained underneath the layers upon layers of ash, stone and dirt until it was accidentally discovered in 1748 – that’s 1669 years after it was originally destroyed! Luckily for those walking in Italy with an eye for the historical sites, everything was miraculously preserved as the lack of air and moisture prevented deterioration. Today, Pompeii is a world heritage site, and one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. The ruins of the city are extensive, and you can wander through at your leisure while exploring this tragic and captivating place.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Join us walking in Italy to see scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries.

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Think about your clothing: Unfortunately, even today, this applies more to women than men. It is especially pertinent when trying to access one of the thousands of churches or religious sites that occupy the Italian landscape. In some, such as St Peter’s Basilica, there is a strict policy regarding ‘summer/inappropriate clothing’. When walking in Italy, this means no shorts, no short-skirts, and certainly no swimwear.

Best foot forward: one of the most important things to bear in mind is the fact that you will be on your feet for much of the day. While this means comfortable shoes, it can also mean at least two pairs of shoes. A strong pair of walking boots will be all important when you are stomping around the rugged Italian hills, but you may well want something different for the evenings, especially if you want the opportunity to eat at a slightly more formal restaurant – the Italians love to dress to impress.

This is the Modern World: One of the greatest strengths of modern technology is the ability to fit lots of information on to small digital devices. If you want music while walking in Italy, you can take your entire record collection with you. Instead of taking a pile of books, you can fit them all (and many more) onto an e-reader. If you have a more sophisticated system, then you may well be able to combine digital maps, lectures and podcasts – providing you with a full multi-media experience.

On Call: Related to the above post, your phone is most likely a multi-media device these days. This means that you can have podcasts on your phone, in order to immerse yourself in Italian language or lifestyle lessons, and also means that you can possibly use the GPS on your phone to help you navigate. Even without this option, one of the most important things is to ensure that your phone will work on local networks. If you are walking in Italy, make sure that your phone is able to ‘roam’ in the country. In case anything goes wrong, it is also important to make sure that you have access to your emergency numbers whenever you need them, as well as Italian emergency numbers for police and ambulance.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Join us walking in Italy to see scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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The Edge of Italy

The Province of Trieste, the area that is home to the walk, is a narrow strip at the end of Italy, squeezed by neighbouring Slovenia. As a result, the area is home to a cultural and linguistic mixture of both Slovenes and Italians, making it a unique experience for those walking in Italy.

Taking in the gorgeous Mediterranean coast and the stark beauty of the Karst region, the Passeggiata Rilke is one of the most beautiful walks in north-eastern Italy. The route stretches for just over a mile along the coast, taking in the Regional Nature Reserve of the Falesie di Duino. The route of the walk begins in front of the tourist office in Sistiana, just to the north of the city of Trieste.

History of the Route

The route of the Passeggiata Rilke concludes at the beautiful Duino castle. Legend has it that the castle was home to a woman and her evil husband who threw her from the cliff. Before she plunged into the water, the gods intervened to turn her into stone. The stone, apparently resembling a veiled lady, remains in the bay to this day. The path takes in the cool pine woods of the area and the coast above the Bay of Duino. Those who choose this route while walking in Italy will find the path passes four panoramic viewing terraces that were formerly used as shooting platforms during the Second World War.

Those walking in Italy with a literary or philosophical interest will be interested to know that the route was formerly known as the Passaggeiata Duinese, but was later renamed to honour the Czech poet, novelist and philosopher Rainer Maria Rilke, who stayed in the area as a guest of the Princes of Thurn and Taxis. While residing in the region, Rilke regularly walked the route along the cliff tops and through the forests, leading him to compose the first two verses of his ‘Duino Elegies’. Even for those without a poetic bone in their body, the sublime beauty of the region is both relaxing and inspirational, and it is an often-overlooked party of Italy.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Join us walking in Italy to see scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries.

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Where to stay?

When it comes to choosing hotels in Milan, people often have very strong views: some think that you should stay on the outskirts of Milan to explore the quirky out-of-the-way areas, whereas others say that you should definitely stay right in Milan centre. Hotels are also passionately discussed: some will only stay in a boutique or bijou hotel, others feel that the hotel should be part of a global luxury chain and still others insist that family run hotels are the best experience. So, just how do you make the choice?

The centre of action in the city

There are lots of reasons why it makes sense to stay in Milan centre. Hotels right in the city are known for their opulence and luxurious facilities while being within only a few minutes of the major attractions in Milan – such as the Duomo, the third largest Christian church in the world. If you have the energy you will be afforded fabulous views from the top. There are lots of other sights, such as the Galleria, Naviglio Grande or Leonardo da Vinci’s painting of The Last Supper. If that much culture is not to your taste, you are in for a treat of the retail kind with a plethora of shops and designer boutiques.

Walk the walk

Whilst it is possible to drive in Milan it is certainly not stress free. The traffic can be absolutely horrendous, whereas if you walk everywhere (or seven use the canal system) instead of frustrating jams you can soak up the ambience and absorb the special ‘feel’ of Milan.
As you wander the streets you can get a sense of what it is like to be an integral part of such a dynamic and exciting city. Driving doesn’t allow that same experience, and going everywhere in taxis is also a sure fire way to miss out on the ambience.

So, now we’ve convinced you to stay in Milan centre, hotels are the next subject. Within Milan centre, hotels are plentiful and you can go as grand or as boutique as you like. Choose from opulent, fashion inspired establishments with vibrant colours and art filled foyers, or small, bespoke luxurious hotels with shadowy halls and a whiff of celebrity.

Wherever you choose to stay, Milan is truly a city that can be all things to all people. No matter your style, your tastes, your age or even your budget, you will fall in love with this true Italian treasure.

Looking for Milan centre hotels? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for World Hotels, a company offering the best rooms at Milan centre hotels and a selection of unique and four and five star hotels around the world.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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The ultimate in luxury

If you’re looking for the finer things in life on your holiday, choose a luxury hotel in Milan that offers a butler service. He can run your bath, chill your drinks, ensure that your clothes are pressed and source anything your mind can conceive. This opulence will cost you upwards of €600 per night, but it really will be worth it to stay in Milan centre hotels that can offer this kind of pampering.

The ultimate in style

These kinds of hotels often have affiliations with famous Italian fashion designers, and they stamp their mark on everything from the décor to the cuisine. Style was never more in style than in Milan centre hotels! Some of the smaller bijou hotels also offer their own unique and idiosyncratic takes on fashion, boasting tastefully decorated interiors in strong, vibrant colours. This trend is reflective of the importance of fashion in Milan – inherent style is viewed as being and important and valued part of Italian culture.

The ultimate fashion escape

As well as this fabulous culture of fashion, Milan is, quite simply, a wonderful city to explore on foot. Milan centre hotels are situated perfectly to take advantage of the out-of-this-world shopping opportunities, and it won’t take you long to realise you have landed in fashion paradise – and it’s all within walking distance. Milan’s fashionable designer shops are world-renowned for their cutting edge take on style. What’s seen in Milan is often seen the world over within days of hitting the catwalks and the city’s fashion and furniture designers are considered among the world’s best.

As you wander the streets, having taken in the Duomo or Galleria, why not pop into the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II or the Naviglio Grande to pick up some fashionable treats – but don’t expect a bargain!

There is no doubt of Milan’s standing as a style icon; pay this beautiful city a visit for a week, or just a weekend, and you can’t help but be inspired by her elegance – and hope that just a little of the gold dust may rub off on you.

Looking for Milan centre hotels? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for World Hotels, a company offering the best rooms at Milan centre hotels and a selection of unique and four and five star hotels around the world.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Shop ‘til You Drop on the World’s Most Famous Fashion Block

Milan is known worldwide as one of the leading global fashion centres. This is the city where such couture superstars as Armani and Versace made their name, and you can visit their stores, along with plenty of other fashion giants, at the Golden Rectangle, Quadrilatero d’Oro. Just about any fashion house you care to name has a store on this rectangle of four central Milan streets: Moschino, Prada, Gucci, La Perla, Louis Vuitton, Valentino, YSL – and the list goes on. Make sure that you pay a visit to the immense Armani Superstore – even if you don’t intend to buy anything there. When you book to stay at a Milan centre hotel, you will be conveniently close to this fashion heartbeat of the city.

A few blocks east of the Golden Rectangle is Il Salvagente, which has a massive array of designer unisex clothing available at wholesale prices. DMagazine is another shopping arcade close to the centre of the city, filled with overstock from the leading Milan designers. Alternatively, exploring the medieval alleyways that span out from your Milan centre hotel is a great way to find fashion boutiques that may just be the next big thing.

Fashion as Far as the Eye Can See

Corso Buenos Aires is one of the longest streets in Europe, and it is filled with fabulous fashion stores. This street is more commercial than the high fashion Golden Rectangle, with stores such as Kookai, Timberland, Benetton and so on. Another popular shopping haven is Serravalle, which is Europe’s largest shopping mall. Although Serravalle is not in the city centre – you will probably need to set it aside as a day trip – it is well worth a visit as there are massive savings to be had on high-end fashion, as well as plenty of commercial brands too. To get there it is best to ask your Milan centre hotel organise to have the shuttle pick you up.

Alternative Purchases

In addition to the malls, stores and outlets, Milan locals also have a great many outdoor markets where you can pick up some unique items. Two of the best known are Feria di Senigallia, which is held every Saturday in the wharf area, and the Mercatone del Naviglio Grande, which is held on the last Sunday of the month. In addition, around the Navigli area of the city you will find a plethora of fashion shops devoted to street style.

Looking for a Milan centre hotel? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for World Hotels, a company offering the best rooms at a Milan centre hotel and a selection of unique and four and five star hotels around the world.

Thank you for visiting Travel Articles Directory. Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

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Last Supper

The Last Supper, by Leonardo da Vinci, is widely considered the most important painting of the entire Renaissance and you can view this masterpiece in the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. The evocative painting depicts the moment when Jesus tells his disciples that one of them will betray him. Despite damage caused by early restoration efforts, Napoleon’s troops and World War II bombing, the painting remains a stunning piece of artwork. Booking tickets ahead of time is essential; if you just turn up – even in low season – you are likely to miss out. Only 25 visitors at a time, in 15-minute slots, are permitted.

Try on Milan Fashion for Size

When staying in a Milan centre hotel, you will find that you are right in the heart of the global fashion epicentre – the Rectangle of Gold, or Quadrilatero d’Oro. Regardless of whether or not your budget extends to the purchase of Armani, Prada, Versace or Missoni items fresh off the runway, it is still a lot of fun to have a sticky beak at one of the world’s most famous fashion centres.

Climb the Duomo

The Duomo is the fourth largest cathedral in the world and took and mind-blowing six centuries to complete. Not only is this one massive church, it is Milan’s chief landmark and an impossible to miss ‘must-see’ for any visitor to the city. If you are staying at a Milan centre hotel, then you will be within a stone’s throw of the Duomo – it is located in the very centre of the city with streets either circling it or spanning out from it. Taking the elevator to the top of the dome and gazing out over the cityscape is definitely a ‘wow’ moment; it has inspired such great writers as Alfred Lord Tennyson and Mark Twain to pay homage to it.

Get Cultural at Pinacotera di Brera

The Pinacotera di Brera is a popular art museum in the Brera neighbourhood – which is worth a visit in itself for its alfresco cafes and quaint shops. Although the museum is not huge, it is packed with masterpieces by the greats: Caravaggio, Rembrandt, Rafael, Tintoretto, Mantegna and many other giants of the art world. Taking a guided tour through the museum is recommended in order to get the most out of the experience. From your Milan centre hotel, you can easily access the museum by taking the southbound green line train from Central Station and alighting at Lanza Brera.

Looking for a Milan centre hotel? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for World Hotels, a company offering the best rooms at a Milan centre hotel and a selection of unique and four and five star hotels around the world.

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The Work of Leonardo da Vinci

Leonardo da Vinci needs no introduction, and when you stay in a Milan centre hotel you will have plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with some of his finest work. The first place to visit, which is one of the most popular tourist sites in the city, is the Santa Maria delle Grazie. Here you will find one of his greatest masterpieces, The Last Supper. This is one of the most famous paintings in the world, alongside The Mona Lisa, and you should not pass up the opportunity to see it. The work may be undergoing restoration, but don’t let that put you off. It is still visible in almost all its glory, and is something that anyone who appreciates art should make a real effort to witness.

If you want to find out more about the great artist and inventor himself, take a trip to the Science and Technology Museum. Here you will find a display dedicated to his inventions and you will realise that his work went far beyond paintings. You can view sketches for inventions which were far ahead of their time, and some of these have been made into wooden models which bring them to life.

Famous Monuments

There are plenty of famous monuments to explore within easy access of your Milan centre hotel. The first on your list should be the mighty Duomo, the gothic cathedral in the centre of the city. It is the largest gothic cathedral in the world, and is a stunning building both inside and out, adorned with stained-glass windows and thousands of statues.

Although the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio is not on the same scale as the Duomo, it is historically important for being one of the oldest churches in Milan, dating back to 368 AD. For anyone with an interest in ancient buildings it should certainly be on the list, and it also contains a beautiful 13th-century mosaic.

Art

Your holiday in a Milan centre hotel is not complete without exploring the fabulous art of the city. Milan boasts a vast collection from some of the greatest artists of all time. You could spend your entire trip going from gallery to gallery, but some of the highlights include Pinacoteca di Brera with its impressive collection of Renaissance and Medieval art, the Museum of Historic Art in Sforzesco Castle, and the Gallery of Modern Art.

Milan – A Cultural Wonder

Milan is a fascinating city to explore, mainly due to the cultural treasures it contains. A stay in a Milan centre hotel provides you with the perfect opportunity to explore the cultural delights the city has to offer, so make sure that you visit a few of the above attractions while you are there.

Looking for a Milan centre hotel? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for World Hotels, a company offering the best rooms at a Milan centre hotel and a selection of unique and four and five star hotels around the world.

Thank you for visiting Travel Articles Directory. Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

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1. Palazzo Bagatti Valsecchi

The Palazzo Bagatti Valsecchi is located on Via Santo Spirito in the centre of Milan and is easy to visit whilst enjoying a stay in a Milan centre hotel. It is an impressive palace on the outside, and inside you will find one of the best museums in the country. Although the collection mainly comprises works of art by such artists as Zenale and Bellini, you will also find lots of historic furniture, glassware and more.

2. Natural History Museum

If you need a break from art and culture during your stay in a Milan centre hotel then the Natural History Museum, or the Museo di Storia Naturale, is the place to head to – you will find it on Corso Venezia. Founded in 1838, this impressive building houses a large number of fascinating natural exhibits, including dinosaur bones, mammals, lots of fossils and also an extensive library. It makes a great trip for all the family and is a wonderful way to while away an afternoon.

3. Museo Poldi Pezzoli

This old aristocratic residence first opened in 1881 and still remains one of the highlights of the city. A must-see when you stay in a Milan centre hotel, it is located on Via Manzoni. The entire building and its contents have been beautifully preserved, and you will marvel at the impressive collection of sculptures, jewellery, armour, paintings and much more.

4. Duomo Museum

After you have visited the Duomo (cathedral), if want to find out some more about it make sure you take a trip to the Duomo Museum situated on Piazza del Duomo. Founded in 1953, it contains a number of items of interest from the Duomo, including stained glass, sculptures, paintings and religious items, as well as an amazing model of the city from the 16th century.

5. Science and Technology Museum

The Science and Technology Museum provides great fun for the whole family and is located within an easy walk of your Milan centre hotel. Situated on Via San Vittore in a former monastery, here you will find a plethora of exhibits involving astronomy, travel, cinema and more. But the highlight is definitely the collection of sketches for inventions by Leonardo da Vinci, some of which have been turned into wooden models.

Discover the Fascinating History of Milan

When you spend a vacation or even just a weekend break in a Milan centre hotel, you will have plenty to keep you busy. However, to find out more about the history, culture and art of the city, make sure you visit some of the fascinating museums above.

Looking for a Milan centre hotel? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for World Hotels, a company offering the best rooms at a Milan centre hotel and a selection of unique and four and five star hotels around the world.

Thank you for visiting Travel Articles Directory. Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

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1. Duomo

The Duomo is the main landmark of Milan and it is so large that it is hard to avoid even if you wanted to. In fact, Gothic cathedrals don’t come any larger than this. It is an impressive sight to behold: with over 3,000 statues, nearly 100 gargoyles and amazing stained-glass windows, it can hold up to 40,000 people. If you plan your stay in a Milan centre hotel between May and September, then you will also be able to see a nail from Christ’s cross on display.

2. Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio

The Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio was built in 368 AD making it one of the oldest churches in Milan. It is worth visiting due to its historical significance, and if you have an interest in architecture it will be particularly special. It also contains a mosaic dating back to the 13th century. The Basilica is located in the Piazza Sant’Ambrogio.

3. The Santa Maria delle Grazie

Santa Maria delle Grazie is most famous because it houses one of the great masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, ‘The Last Supper’. Although it has been undergoing restoration work for some time, it is still an awesome piece of art to witness.

4. Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science & Technology

To discover more about da Vinci’s work and ideas head to this museum which is easily accessible from any Milan centre hotel. Here you will find a large collection of a Vinci’s original designs on paper, and even some models that have been constructed to show what they would have looked like when completed. You can find the museum on Via San Vitttore.

5. Aquarium

Milan Aquarium is one of the biggest in Italy and is a real treat for young and old. If you are staying in a Milan centre hotel with your family, this is an ideal attraction. With huge tanks containing countless species of sea creatures, including piranhas, it is a great way to spend some time if you need a break from the cultural offerings of the city.

Enjoy Exciting Milan

When you stay in a Milan centre hotel, even if you are only spending a few days in the city, make sure that you visit as many as the highlights as you can. The above five are some of the best, but there are plenty more to keep you busy.

Looking for a Milan centre hotel? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for World Hotels, a company offering the best rooms at a Milan centre hotel and a selection of unique and four and five star hotels around the world.

Thank you for visiting Travel Articles Directory. Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

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1. Gallery of Modern Art

One of the first places to visit if you want to see some fantastic works of art when you are staying in a Milan centre hotel is the Gallery of Modern Art. Milan may be more famous for its connection to historical artists, but in this gallery you will get a real treat – with paintings on display by Matisse, Cézanne, Picasso and Renoir amongst others. You can find the gallery on Villa Reale in a building that was once the summer palace of Napoleon.

2. Pinacoteca di Brera

For Medieval and Renaissance art, there is no better collection of paintings from Northern Italy than in the Pinacoteca di Brera. A lot of the art here was actually originally confiscated by Napoleon and stored here for safe-keeping. There are works of art from some of the most famous artists of all time, but the highlights here are ‘Betrothal of the Virgin’ by Raphael and ‘Madonna with Saints’ by Piero della Francesca. The gallery is located on Via Brera, well within walking distance of a Milan centre hotel.

3. The Santa Maria delle Grazie

This is not a gallery, but it is still one of the best places in Milan for art lovers. In fact, it houses one of the most famous paintings of all time – The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci. Although the masterpiece is not in great condition and is currently undergoing restoration (hence the presence of scaffolding), the majority of the painting is visible and it is an awesome sight to behold.

4. Sforzesco Castle

Sforzesco Castle dates back to the 15th century and is one of the most important landmarks of the city. When you stay in a Milan centre hotel, it is easy to make the trip here to visit the Museum of Historic Art – one of three museums inside the castle. Here you will find a huge collection of famous works from names such as Leonardo da Vinci, Andrea Mantegna and Filippo Lippi. But the highlight is the Rondanini Pietà, which was the final sculpture of the genius Michelangelo.

Explore the Fabulous Art of Milan

If you are lucky enough to stay in a Milan centre hotel, don’t miss the opportunity to explore some of the wonderful art to be found throughout the city. There are more than the above locations to visit, but start with these four and you won’t be disappointed.

Looking for a Milan centre hotel? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for World Hotels, a company offering the best rooms at a Milan centre hotel and a selection of unique and four and five star hotels around the world.

Thank you for visiting Travel Articles Directory. Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

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Let’s get lost

For couture, there’s Quadrilatero d’Oro, the Golden Rectangle; for opera, La Scala; and for effortless cosmopolitan chic the business district is hard to beat. But straying from the well-worn streets around the city’s most famous attractions is just as worthwhile. Leave the luxury of your Milan centre hotel and spend a day getting pleasantly lost among the city’s lanes. A lot of Milan’s best-kept secrets are to be found in little corners, through courtyards and unexpected doorways. Closing the guidebook and turning the corner on a whim could lead to your best holiday story, or to a gem of a shop that you would never have found otherwise. Wondering where to start? Try the streets around the Duomo. For a walk with more historical focus, the Castello Sforzesco, a collection of museums linked by courtyards and passages, is a perfect place to wander. Or head north to Groane Park where you can walk or cycle through acres of uplifting natural beauty, surrounded by the splendour of 17th century villas.

Fashion off the beaten track

Canals once carried trade from all over Italy to Milan, and although most of them have now been replaced by roads there are still some picturesque canals to be explored in the city. A little further afield than the high-end stores near your Milan centre hotel, the Navigli district with its quaint canals is worth the journey. The boutique fashion outlets here are a delight waiting to be discovered, and the district also boasts an antiques market, where the intrepid shopper is sure to find some one-of-a-kind vintage treasures. Round off your adventure with an evening on the canal banks – their live music and bohemian cafés provide a perfect change of pace from the busy city centre.

Secret histories

Every building tells a story, but some are buried deeper than others. The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a true historic shopping mall, built in 1867. Like the oldest Milan centre hotels and opera houses, the dedication to style and splendour here is evident. Nestled beneath the iconic Duomo, the mall boasts lavish mosaics and a glass vaulted ceiling. These days it houses luxury outlets such as Prada and Louis Vuitton, and is a great spot for people-watching, but it also played an important part in the evolution of Europe’s modern architecture – the covered space inspired the modern indoor mall, and the ironwork in the dome itself is said to have influenced the design of the Eiffel Tower. For a more sobering piece of history, if travelling through the Stazione Centrale, look out for the plaque on the main concourse inscribed with a line from Primo Levi: Bearing witness matters, since everyone’s anguish is our own. Little evidence remains of the hidden platform beneath the Stazione Centrale, from where Italian Jews were deported during the Second World War – a campaign to turn the underground space into a memorial centre is underway, but for now the plaque is their only monument.

Looking for a Milan centre hotel? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for World Hotels, a company offering the best rooms at a Milan centre hotel and a selection of unique and four and five star hotels around the world.

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Just Cavalli-Hollywood—If you are looking for a fashionable place to wear your sky-high Guccis, Just Cavalli-Hollywood, near many of the Milan centre hotels, is the place to have your driver take you. Located in the largest city garden in Milan, it was created in 2009 by designer Roberto Cavalli, and often hosts after-show parties for some very famous faces.

Gold—Gold is a cocktail bar designed by Dolce & Gabbana inside their Milan store. A concierge at any luxury Milan centre hotel will tell you that Gold is one of the most sophisticated places to show off your designer fashions, while sipping exclusive cocktails among the city’s elite. The smart bar is clean-cut, elegant and draped in gold – much like the clientele. Gold’s concept “a new dolce vita, signifying a taste for beauty and for sensual pleasure” says it all.

Hollywood Rythmoteque—With over twenty years in the business, it is no wonder that Hollywood Rythmoteque is one of the best-known clubs in Milan. Over the years it has garnered a reputation for being the go-to nightspot for models, sports heroes, international TV personalities, actors and actresses as well as rock/pop stars (including Aerosmith, Bon Jovi, T.I., and Pink-to name just a few) – many of which are listed on their website, just in case you wanted to see who you might expect to see! But if the crowd isn’t enticing enough, then the world-renowned DJs will be. This is a perfect place to party in Milan with the world’s rich and famous.

H Club Diana—If you are too tired to bother having your driver take you across the city for a cocktail, then H Club Diana is the place for you. Located in the Milan centre Hotel Sheridan, this ‘fashion bar’ occupies the exclusive ground floor, and is the place to go if you want to mingle with the jet-setters but not venture too far from your suite. Each season (spring/summer) the club restyles itself with a new theme to keep the interiors as fresh as the private garden the club overlooks. This Art Nouvo bar even has a ‘black garden extension’ of their famous ‘black label room.’

Giardino d’Inverno—Is another cocktail bar located in a superb Milan centre hotel. In the centre of the fashion world, Giardino d’Inverno is part of the Principe di Savoia Hotel, and everyone who is anyone is here during Milan’s Fashion Week. Interior designer Thierry Despont utilised the original features of the space – such as glassworks, mirrors and Italian fabrics – to create a hip cocktail bar that is as sleek and opulent as those it serves. Designer clothes and a ritzy attitude are a must for this über chic locale.

Looking for a Milan centre hotel? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for World Hotels, a company offering the best rooms at a Milan centre hotel and a selection of unique and four and five star hotels around the world.

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There is no shortage of high-end dining in Milan centre. Hotel maitre d’s will be glad to reserve you a place at one of Milan’s Michelin starred restaurants. With the new 2011 Michelin Italian list recently presented, these four restaurants are not only the crème de la crème, but are the place to see and be seen among Milan’s elite.

Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia (2 Star) — Officially ‘born’ in 1962, this restaurant has since continued to thrive in the same location (Via Montecuccoli 6) by Aimo, Nadia and their daughter Stefania. Their food is known more for its fresh quality than chemical, or gimmicky alterations, and is a blend of regional Italian sourcing such as: Piedmont veal, Tuscan suckling pig and Sicilian capers. And, of course, the sommelier is on hand to match these sumptuous delights with wines from their extensive wine cellar.

Sadler Milano (2 Star) — Via Cardinale Ascanio Sforza, 77. This is a beacon of how architecture and interior design lends itself to the perfect union of modern culinary art. Under the creative eye of Claudio Sadler, the menu reads like a blend of the traditional, modern and experimental, with each dish dated to mark its year of conception. Sadler’s Ristorante Milano is listed as a ‘Le Soste’ restaurant, denoting it as part of an association of restaurants that show original, creative paths that ‘increase the value of Italian cuisine in every aspect’.

Cracco (2 Star) — Conveniently located a short walk from one of the most exclusive Milan centre hotels, Cracco insists on being the place to be seen in the heart of the city. Having been part of the team awarded the first Italian Michelin Star, Chef Carlo Cracco is a name that is synonymous with dining at its finest. Amidst an elegant setting designed by architects Gian Maria and Roberto Beretta, Cracco serves up modern interpretations of light Italian classics. The wine cellar specialises in 1800s labels selected to complement the changing menus.

Il Ristorante Trussardi alla Scala (2 Star) — Piazza della Scala, 5. Revamped in 2009, Il Ristorante Trussardi alla Scala is the epitome of clean, contemporary Italian dining. Guests are offered two seating options in a restaurant designed to feel like an affluent, welcoming suite in a Milan centre hotel: views over Piazza della Scala from luxurious plush seating, or you can opt to sit in the dynamically designed open-kitchen area. Chef Andrea Berton creates intricately balanced menus with organically sourced ingredients that showcase the rich sumptuousness of Italian cuisine at its best. As expected, this restaurant also has an exceptional wine list.

Looking for a Milan centre hotel? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for World Hotels, a company offering the best rooms at a Milan centre hotel and a selection of unique and four and five star hotels around the world.

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Milan has the remedy for any real or imaginary aches and pains. Why bother with an excuse? You deserve to be pampered. The solution – visit any one of Milan’s top-rated spas. Close to many Milan centre hotels you can head out and discover some of the most relaxing and pampering spas in the city.

Bulgari E’Spa

Many Milan centre hotels have their own wonderful spas. The Bulgari Hotel happens to be one of them. Even if you are not staying at the hotel, you can receive the best in intense massages and soothing facials. With a wonderful calming atmosphere, the lighting is subdued, the wicker chaise lounges comfortable and the service excellent. Glowing candles bathe you in soft light as you lie beside the gold-mosaic swimming pool. This is total bliss in a minimalist setting.

Aquae Calidae

Within easy reach of Milan centre hotels, seek out the fabulous Aquae Calidae. If you want Roman authenticity, this is the spa for you! It features the temperate room, the Tepidarium, the steam or hot room the Calidarium, and the aptly named, ice cold Frigidarium. You can throw a toga party for your friends or drop in for a face, foot, body, or hair treatment. The Aqua Calidae Massage combines both Western and Oriental elements.

Dolce & Gabbana Beauty Farm

For those who want to pull out all the stops, leave your Milan centre hotels and spend a day at the Dolce & Gabbana Beauty Farm. The use of the latest Kanebo products is behind the ‘face flash’ and ‘body firming’. The setting is very clinical, and the methods rely on the latest in technology.

ESPA at Gianfranco Ferré

This is a luxurious spa, ideal for the ultimate in pampering. Relax in custom-built chairs as you look over the walled, private garden and the gold and black themed pool. Enjoy a unique light show when you take a shower, combining water with chromotherapy. You can also opt for other aromatherapy-based treatments as well as the basics and the popular back massage, mud wrap or scalp massage.

Terme Milano

For a touch of history within easy reach of Milan centre hotels, consider heading over to the Terme Milano. Steam baths, saunas and open-air pools find their place within a magnificent Art Deco palazzo dating from 1908.

Other Options

Milan, considering it started late in the spa business, has several world-class facilities. Others you may want to consider are Lepri, Habits Culti – with its altar-like platforms serving the baths – and Culti Day Spa. You can find them easily, not far from or even within the best Milan centre hotels.

Looking for Milan centre hotels ? Nina Hilgemann works in e-marketing and CRM for World Hotels, a company offering the best Milan centre hotel accommodation and a selection of unique four and five star hotels around the world.

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Early Christian

Abandon your hotel – Rome centre is the start of your journey to the past, when Christianity was at its earliest stages. The Catacombs are cemeteries constructed underground by ancient specialists– the fossores or gravediggers. They carved the walls of dirt and stone creating gallery after gallery for the dead.

The most famous catacombs date from the 2nd century. To reach them, you will have to travel beyond your hotel in Rome centre, along the former consular roads to the former suburbs of their time. Currently, you can visit any or all five of the following Catacombs:

1.    The catacombs of St. Agnes, Via Nomentana
2.    The catacombs of Priscilla, via Salaria
3.    The catacombs of Domitilla, via delle Sette Chiese
4.    The catacombs of St. Sebastian, via Appia Antica
5.    The catacombs of St. Callixtus, Via Appia Antica

While it may seem slightly ghoulish to visit the Catacombs, it does give you a chance understand early death and burial customs – especially noting the funerary paintings on the walls.

From Temples to Churches

The survival of many an ancient pagan Roman temple has depended on its conversion into a Christian Church. You can find examples throughout the city where the early religious buildings were taken over by the newer form of religion. Put on comfortable shoes, even though you may be taking a taxi, and leave behind your hotel. Rome centre is a significant part of this history.

Your expedition should firstly take you to the Forum. Here stands the former Temple of Romulus. It became the vestibule of the Church of Santi Cosma e Damiano sometime in the 6th century. This semi-circular brick temple is topped by a cupola with other points of interest being the concave porch and two original heavy, bronze doors. The church also occupies a former hall of Vespasian’s Forum of Peace. Visit to see the 18th century carved figures making up the Nativity scene.

The Pantheon was designed by Emperor Hadrian to celebrate the pantheon – the collective name of the Roman Gods.  Its noted feature was its magnificent dome. Hollow decorative coffering helped to decrease the overall weight of the dome. This made the entire structure more stable with the help of the structurally embedded brick arches. The dome features an oculus – an eye or hole in the centre. It is the only source of light to this remarkable and beautiful building. Of particular beauty is the marble floor with its restored Roman pattern.
Many people come here to pay homage to the artist, Raphael who is entombed within, some to admire the architecture, and others to see the tombs of Italy’s former kings.

Santa Nicola in Carcere is a small medieval church in the Campo de’ Fiore. It stands on the sites of three Roman temples: Juno, Spes and Janus. Inside, several columns are integrated into the walls and testify as to the origins of this church. The Roman columns and an early bell tower are points of interest.

San Clemente, with architectural elements from the 4th century, is one of the earliest Christian churches. Beneath it, however, lie the ruins of several ancient Roman buildings, including a temple dedicated to the all-male cult of Mithras. Several frescoes illustrating his life are of interest.

Rome also has many early Christian churches. Not all were built on the foundations of pagan temples. Among them are Santa Pudenziana, with its extraordinary 4th century mosaic, and San Cecilia in Trastevere,with an altar canopy by Arnolfo di Cambio. Beneath San Cecilia is another Roman ruin worth visiting – the ruins, not of a temple, but of a Roman tannery.

All these historic sights are well within easy reach of your hotel – Rome centre and her history await!

Looking for a hotel Rome centre? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for World Hotels, a company offering the best rooms at a Rome centre hotel and a selection of unique and four and five star hotels around the world.

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Coffee Casanova Style

Think Italian gastronomy and very soon your mind will drift to coffee. Drinking coffee and cafes are a way of life here in Rome, and every Roman has their favourite. One café that has been serving up espresso for hundreds of years is the Antico Café Grecco. This is considered to be one of the world’s three oldest cafes, having been operating since 1760. During its expansive history, characters such as Casanova, Lord Byron, Keats and Goethe have all enjoyed their beverages here among the charming décor.

Dining in Trastevere

Across the river from your city hotel, Rome’s oldest suburb Trastevere offers a range of authentic dining experiences away from the tourist glare. There are many typical trattorias here filling local Roman tummies each day. One of the most popular of these is Dar Poeta – ‘the place’ to try out the very best of Roman pizza. Their bruschetta is also a work of art – make sure you try out their honey and gorgonzola variety.

Browse the Markets

Every Roman knows the importance of using the freshest ingredients, and many of them purchase supplies each day at the city’s oldest market, the Campo dei Fiori. Wandering the stalls taking in the sights and smells, as well as munching on freshly made street food, is a simple pleasure that has to be experienced while in Rome. The market is open until 1:30pm daily. If you are looking for a sit-down meal around the market, then you ought to pull up a chair at Ristorante Grappolo d’Oro Zampanò, with the tranquil sound of the piazza’s fountain serenading you as you munch on one of their specials. The panzanella – tomato and bread soup – is particularly delectable. Rome’s other great food market is the Mercato di Testaccio, which is a marvellous place to sample locally produced cheeses.

Do it Yourself Roman Cuisine

Having experienced such a symphony for the senses as you ate your way around the city, you may also want to learn how to recreate some of these rich Roman dishes yourself at home. By taking a cooking course during your stay, you can do just that. Gambero Rosso Cooking School offers courses that last between one day and several weeks.

Satiate the Sweet Tooth

If you have a sweet tooth, then you should head for one of the city’s best kept secrets – Dolce Maniera on the Via Barletta. This is a 24-hour bakery that offers affordable and delicious pastries made fresh on site. The nutella-filled cornetto is to die for, and there are so many choices you will be hard pressed to just choose one. Memorise the way to the bakery from your city hotel – Rome can be confusing – and you can return time and again to sample all the goodies on the menu.
While staying in a city hotel Rome, sampling the full range of Roman fare on offer is an absolute must. Knowing where to eat can be intimidating with such an abundance of choice on offer. If in doubt ask a local, as every native Roman has their swathe of personal favourites they are passionate about.

Looking for a city hotel Rome? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for World Hotels, a company offering the best rooms at a Rome centre hotel and a selection of unique and four and five star hotels around the world.

Thank you for visiting Travel Articles Directory. Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

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Lesser Known Michelangelo at Via Liberiana

First gem on the list is Michelangelo’s Sforza Chapel in Santa Maria Maggiore. The chapel is not within the main church itself, but rather off to the side and it is a charming and tranquil place to take in some of the original Renaissance architectural brilliance. A little down the road is the Basilica di Santa Prassede, which boasts exquisitely intricate 9th century mosaic murals. You can easily reach these sites by heading for the Via Liberiana by bus from your city hotel. Rome also offers an all-day bus pass that makes getting to these, and other, sites around the city both easy and affordable. Additionally there is the Hop-On-Hop-Off Guided Coach Tour, where you can stop at sites that interest you along the way.

Vespers at the Church of Sant’Anselmo

If you are in Rome on a Sunday evening and at a bit of a loss as to what to do, then you must head to the church of Sant’Anselmo on the Aventine Hill for vespers with the Benedictine Monks. The monks enter and leave in complete silence, but sing remarkable hymns dating back to the Middle Ages as part of the service. Religious or not, there is something decidedly celestial and sublime about this experience. The service begins at 7:15 and you can access the church from Via di Porta Lavernate.

Sip on a Little Liquid History

Before heading back to your city hotel, Rome offers some incredible coffee drinking experiences, and one place that has to be experienced during your time in the city is the Antico Café Grecco. Romans have a long standing love affair with coffee, and this is one of the most famous cafes in the city, as well as being one of the world’s oldest. Opened in 1760, the café is located on a busy and prestigious shopping street, and has been graced by such famous historic and literary figures as Casanova, Goethe, Keats and Lord Byron.

Trot around Trastevere

Leave the tourist traps and head to one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods, Trastevere, located just over the Tiber River from your city hotel. Rome’s quaintest medieval streets and alleys are located here and you will find many hidden gems of your own by wandering through its narrow streets. There are plenty of places to grab affordable Roman food and drink the way that the Romans really eat. The Church of Santa Cecilia here is one of the city’s most fascinating, where the body of the patron saint of music, Saint Cecilia, was exhumed undecayed in the 16th century.

Looking for a city hotel Rome? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for World Hotels, a company offering the best rooms at a Rome centre hotel and a selection of unique and four and five star hotels around the world.

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The City within a City

The Vatican is the home of the Roman Catholic Church. It is actually an independent state and the world’s smallest country – in the middle of Rome itself. You can get to the Vatican from your city hotel in Rome by taking the Metro or a city bus. There are two choices of tour that you can choose between: a guided tour with the official Vatican tour guides, or an audio tour. These tend to take in St. Peter’s Basilica, Pio Clementino Museum, the Sistine Chapel, the Map Rooms, the Gallery of Candelabras and the Raphael Rooms. Additional tours are available to the Necropolis and the archaeological excavations of St. John Lateran, but you will have to book these well in advance.

Walk the Appian Way

So if all roads lead to Rome, then they probably led to the Appian Way, which was one of the most strategically important roads in all of Rome. Construction began in 312 B.B and it was often referred to as the “queen of all roads”. Today it is one of the most fascinating walking tours in the entire city, with the inclusion of many important ancient Roman ruins. Get to the beginning of the walking tour by taking bus 118 or 218 from your city hotel. Rome’s Republic constructed the road to allow their armies easier access to, and departure from, the city. It fell out of favour when the Western Roman Empire fell and was then restored during the Great Jubilee celebrations as a tourist attraction. You can walk or cycle the route and take in ancient catacombs, the Baths of Caracalla, the gate of the Aurelian Walls, the Church of Domine Quo Vadis, the Circus of Maxentius, the Baths of Capo di Bove, the Villa dei Quintili, with its theatre and nympheum, and the Torre Selce. Devote a whole day to this tour in order to really see and experience all the fascinating ancient Roman sites along the road.

Wandering Rome by Night

After a busy day out and about exploring Rome, head back for a little rest at your city hotel. Rome night walking tours are an amazing way to experience the city and its sites from a totally different perspective, and shouldn’t be missed. One of the classic evening guided walking tours takes in the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, an external visit of the Colosseum, the Piazza Navona and Capitoline Hill. This tour is an excellent choice in the summer in order to avoid the warm sunshine and the crowds. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as the lighting of these attractions by night is simply magical.

There is so much to see and do in Rome that it can be hard to pick and choose. Taking a walking tour is an excellent way to discover many of the Italian capital’s attractions, but also gives you the chance to explore at your own pace and find interesting local hidden spots at the same time.

Looking for a city hotel Rome? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for World Hotels, a company offering the best rooms at a Rome centre hotel and a selection of unique and four and five star hotels around the world.

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The first time you glimpse the Colosseum, one of the world’s most famous buildings, you’ll probably be a little overwhelmed by its sheer size. Also known as the Flavian amphitheatre, the massive building takes its common name not from its height, but from a statue (or ‘colossus’) of Nero that once stood close to the spot. In its heyday up to 50,000 spectators enjoyed extravagant gladiatorial shows of death and violence. With the Colosseo metro station just a short distance away, it’s easily accessible from any centre hotel. Rome was famed for its gladiators, and just across the road from the Colosseum is a partially-excavated (and much smaller) site – the Gladiator’s barracks.

Tasting Spaghetti a la Carbonara

An Italian pasta dish based on spaghetti, eggs, pecorino romano or parmesan cheeses, guanciale (a type of Italian bacon), and black pepper, you’ll never forget your first taste of this authentic Rome recipe! It’s served at any restaurant or centre hotel; Rome is famed for its pastas and the city’s chefs try not to disappoint. The origin of the dish is shrouded in mystery, but the name originates from ‘carbone’, the Italian word for coal, and some believe it was first cooked as a hearty meal for coal miners. Others say it was originally cooked over charcoal grills, or that squid ink was used in the recipe, giving it the colour of carbon.

Stepping inside the Pantheon

Despite the many tourists rushing in and out of the great doorway, the moment you step into the Pantheon, you may strangely feel a sense of peace and calm. The majestic building has stood for nearly two thousand years as the city of Rome has crumbled and risen around it. It’s worth a pilgrimage from your centre hotel – Rome has many areas suitable for a scenic walk, and the Pantheon sits in the heart of the beautiful Centro Storico district.

Listening to the Talking Statues

You may not imagine that you’d hear much from Rome’s ‘talking’ statues, but there’s nowhere better to put a finger on the pulse of the city, past or present. The talking statues have been used as popular soapboxes for social and political discussions, and for people to voice their satirical opinions. The two main statues are the Pasquino and the Marforio, and both can be reached from a centre hotel. Rome’s residents and visitors have used the statues for centuries. They’re often covered with placards or graffiti expressing political ideas or points-of-view, and they’re a little-known way to really connect with Rome.

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Underground Rome

If you want something a little quirkier than the usual tour of the Vatican to get you out of your centre hotel, Rome has a little treasure of a tour.  You can descend into the Eternal City’s underground world of burial chambers, catacombs, a pagan temple, and Christian artefacts. You will learn about the Imperial and early Christian Rome and all its mysteries and secrets hidden buried beneath the vibrant city.

Vegetarian Rome

If you are a vegetarian food lover, or any food lover, then you can experience many tasty tours, all on the doorstep of your centre hotel. Rome offers the chance to experience the vegetarian side of Italian cuisine by cooking in a traditional Roman kitchen and being privy to all the delicious secrets hidden within the aromatic dishes.

Italians use a wide variety of beautiful fresh fruit and vegetables in their cooking and this makes the cuisine perfect for vegetarians or vegans.  The tour starts in the local bustling markets populating Rome, where you will buy fresh produce with which to cook.  You will be taught about the ingredients traditionally used in Italian cooking and about the seasonal food you can expect to find.  You will be given lessons in how to shop for the important ingredients such as herbs, wine, honey and balsamic vinegar. Then you return to the kitchen and learn how to prepare, cook and serve the ingredients in the traditional Roman way.  This is a great experience, even if you are not vegetarian!

Religious Rome

If you like sightseeing with a hint of the macabre, then head to the Church of Santa Maria della Concezione. From the street-level door, you can descend into the basement of the church where you will be faced with an intriguing sight – the bones of 4,000 Capuchin monks.  These bones have been arranged around the crypt in a variety of artistic designs reflecting the Baroque and Rococo style.  Entrance is free but donations are requested, and if you can get past the Capuchin monk who guards the entrance, then well done you! This is definitely a sight worth leaving your room in your luxurious centre hotel.  Rome has a great tradition and many intriguing sights, so make sure to add this one to your list.

Shopping Rome

If you need to shop for presents and souvenirs, but fancy something a little more ‘real Rome’ than plastic statues, head to Porta Portese in Trastevere. Trastevere is almost a city in its own right, and its inhabitants claim to be the only true Romans left.  The flea market consists of over 4,000 stalls selling a multitude of bric a brac, antiques, junk, second-hand goods, food, books and craft goods. Due to the increasing popularity of this market, it is getting harder to find a bargain, but if you have the nerves to enter into a bartering match with an Italian, you will always leave with a good deal.

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Thank you for visiting Travel Articles Directory. Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

This article was provided by LeadGenerators – the smartest SEO agency in London, and the proud host of a series of Internet Marketing training seminars and Social Media breakfasts.

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I sometimes think of myself as somewhat of a tour guide, rather than just a shuttle driver taking people from Palermo airport to their hotels. Through my experiences of driving through the region, I have come to know Palermo like the back of my hand. I can tell you about the history of the area, and about the cathedrals and palaces that you can see there. I can tell you the best sites to visit which areas to avoid and where to have dinner. I see my task as being more than just providing a ride from the airport to Palermo, but rather as an educational trip where you can learn about the destination you have arrived in.

A Spiritual Guide

Being a shuttle driver, I have a lot of time to consider the best places to see as I drive past them so often from the airport to Palermo. In my opinion, the churches of Palermo are top of the list of sights to see, and they are both beautiful and peaceful.

When on a Palermo airport transfer, I often spend quite a bit of time advising my passengers on which churches to see. Palermo Cathedral, I tell them, is definitely worth a visit. It is a grand sight to behold, and this architectural complex shows a range of different styles. Being a passionate historian myself, I am fascinated by its history. It was erected in 1185 by Walter Ophamil, an Anglo-Norman archbishop of Palermo and King William II’s minister. Since its original development, it has been added to, altered and restored a countless number of times, creating a mixture of different architectural styles as they developed over the centuries.

I don’t get much time to visit this beautiful site myself, but I always recommend it to passengers when driving from the airport to Palermo. I think it’s a great way to spend a quiet afternoon, and it really captures the architecture of the region.

A Trip Fit For Kings

I always try to think of the sites I would like to see if I were a tourist in Palermo, and I try to inspire my passengers on their Palermo airport transfer before their holiday has even begun. Conjuring images of grandiosity and important historical events is the Palace of the Kings, Palazzo dei Normanni. The palace was created in the 9^th century by the Emir of Palermo, and was to become the seat of the Kings of Sicily.

In the 12^th century it was extended by King Roger II and the Norman Kings. It contains the Capella Palatina, full of wonderful mosaics, marble walls and elaborately fretted and painted ceilings. I’m really passionate about this site, and I talk about it on nearly every transfer from Palermo airport.

The castles of Zisa and Cuba are also worth going to see, the former houses used by the kings of Palermo for hunting. Zisa is particularly interesting because it houses an Islamic museum, and the history of Cuba is intriguing as it was formerly surrounded by water.

Entertainment at the Opera House

Many of my passengers on Palermo transfers haven’t yet planned their activities for every night. Being a fan of classical music, I often recommend an evening out at the Teatro Massimo, ‘Greatest Theatre,’ which is the largest Opera house in Italy, covering an area of 8 000 square meters. It opened in 1897, and has enjoyed an active performance schedule ever since. Enrico Caruso performed La Gioconda during the theatre’s opening season, and performed Rigoletto towards the end of his career.

As I say to all of my passengers on their drive from Palermo airport, Palermo is a culturally rich region, and the activities to focus on should give you insight into this dynamic cultural history.

Giulio Monreotti is a shuttle driver, driving from the airport to Palermo and other routes for Shuttle Direct. They provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

For breathtaking walks in the Tuscany region head to the historic centre of San Marcello. History buffs will enjoy strolling through the town’s historic centre, which contains buildings such as the Consortium T’Delizia and The Observatory from where it is possible to view the star-clad skies of the region. Another important monument that you may want to visit on your walks in Italy is the Mammiano Suspension Bridge. Brave walkers may even wish to attempt to cross the rope clad bridge, which joins the two banks of the Lima River.

The Lima River is bordered by verdant woods, which offer a number of opportunities for tourists on their walking holidays in Italy. It is not only possible to spend a day horse-riding or mountain-biking in the thick forest, but you can also arrange excursions kayaking and even paragliding in this area.

Located nearby to San Marcello is the scenic town of Gavinana, a popular spot for walks in Italy. The town is the site of a former 16^th century fortified castle and still retains much of its medieval architecture. On your walking holiday in Italy spend a day exploring this town, which has an equestrian monument in memory of its local hero Francesco Ferrucci at its very centre.

All this walking is bound to make you hungry so head back to your hotel in order to learn some Tuscany cooking skills that you will astound your friends with at your next dinner party. Tuscan cookery is typically very home orientated with many casserole based dishes containing cannellini and borlotti beans all, of course, with a generous splash of olive oil. Roast suckling pig and wild boar are also two typical Tuscan dishes that you may find yourself cooking whilst on your walking holiday in Italy. The Tuscan chefs are particularly passionate about the food which they cook and will happily give you hints and make sure that you cook the best possible dish on your walking holiday in Italy.

Walking in Italy’s cultural capital of Florence is a great way to burn off the calories, so spend the next day on your walking holiday in Italy visiting the many art galleries and monuments of the region. Unmissable is the Accademia which houses Michelangelo’s David and the Uffizi Gallery containing works by Botticelli and other giants of the Italian Renaissance. It is possible to spend a whole day in Italy’s premier art gallery, but the city has many incredible sights to visit including the Duomo (Cathedral) and the Ponte Vecchio.

You’ll need to take a great wine home in order to complement the Tuscan cookery skills that you have picked on your walking holiday in Italy. So before the end of your holiday head into the Chianti region between Florence and Siena and spend a day sampling the local produce. After all you don’t want to spoil all the effort you’ve made on your Tuscan dinner party by offering your guests cheap wine.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing for Ramblers Countrywide Holidays. Ramblers Worldwide have been operating since 1946 and now offer over 250 holidays in more than 70 different countries.  They are dedicated to providing the very finest holidays walking in Italy at the best value prices.

Wine and Walking in Italy

There’s more to the wine region of Tuscany than the much-coveted Brunello. The wine buffs would tell you that from the 1980’s Tuscany has been producing new wines called Super Tuscans that have found international popularity. It’s not uncommon to combine wine and walking in Italy into wine-tasting and walking holidays. The vineyards in Tuscany range from a small winery to a large producer in the grounds of a stately Castello, (a castle-like house) and walking here offers the chance to take in the views as you walk among grapes growing on the vines. Most vineyards are open to visitors and many arrange events or tours for groups.

Walk in Italy to Work Up an Appetite

Of course, nothing goes better with wine than food, and the Tuscan cuisine knows how to please. Some walking holiday packages offer the chance to try your hand at cooking delicacies as well as eating them. Such packages let you experience the Tuscan lifestyle in the kitchen as well as in the hills; the trouble is you’ll want to eat so much that afterwards you’ll find it hard to walk! Italy is proud and protective of its pasta, and Tuscany is no different. Each shape of pasta is said to be as individual as the region it comes from. One of Tuscany’s pastas is Pici, a hand-rolled pasta made from long solid fat tubes. After a day Walking in Italy’s hills, sit down to sample a local speciality meal such as rabbit stewed with olives, pasta with a local sauce, or perhaps artichoke pie.

The Tuscan Scenery

What will make that meal special though is the scenery. The towns of Tuscany are linked and surrounded by the gentle green slopes and pretty valleys of the countryside. Walkers can enjoy the mountain paths, some of which are strenuous enough for more serious hiking. Italy is big on cycling too, so you’ll hear the spokes spinning along the rolling hillside roads. The Tuscan landscape has something for its summer vacationers, too, with the sea coast and islands.

Walking in Italy’s Artistic Cities

This scenery has inspired generations of Italian artists to produce an enviable collection of art. Tuscany contains the magnificent cities of Florence, Siena and Pisa, which are filled with eye-catching architecture, famous galleries and sculpture. The best way to take it all in is to walk. Italy is a nation so rich with renaissance art that six of Tuscany’s cities have been made UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Why not take a sightseeing walk at Italy’s famous icons such as the leaning Tower of Pisa and the black and white Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral at Siena?

In true Renaissance style, there’s no reason why you can’t combine all the specialities of Tuscany into one, with the popular package walking Holidays in Italy. A hiking, drinking, eating, and inspiring walk in Italy is waiting for you.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. A long-established and highly respected company, they have been operating since 1946 and are dedicated to providing the very finest walking in Italy packages at the best value prices.

It’s a pleasant journey from Palermo airport to the centre of the city. The road runs along the north shore of the region, so you’ll see the sparkling waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. On the way, the route takes you past the classy resort of Mondello with its palm trees and cafes. I have to say that Sicily is a beautiful part of the world, but being a shuttle driver who regularly takes the journey from the airport to Palermo, I must confess that I am biased.

Travelling on one of the Palermo airport transfer buses, it takes just about half an hour to get from the airport to Palermo’s hotels in the town centre. Once here, many tourists are advised to visit the Palermo Cathedral; it is certainly a grand structure with its dome and its archways extending across the road. It is decorated with spiral carvings and a roofline adorned with triangles. However, in terms what there is to see inside, I prefer the Cappella Palatina, a chapel at Piazza del Parlamento. The ceiling within is elaborately painted with a gold setting behind the churchly images and scenes.

The Cappella is part of the Palazzo dei Normanni which houses the regional parliament and is located in the old centre of the city at the Quattro Canti. Also known as Teatro del Sole, it lies only about thirty five minutes from Palermo airport and is an open area where you can always see the sun, with curvaceous cast iron lampposts and buildings bedecked with statues.

The Museo Archeologico Regionale, and the Palazzo Abatellis containing the Galleria Regionale are popular places to visit in Palermo. One of the stranger attractions I hear tourists talk about during my Palermo airport transfers are the Capuchin Catacombs. If you have the stomach for it, you can see the remains of thousands of corpses that have undergone the regional equivalent of mummification. These are arranged in galleries and themed rooms, featuring some remarkably well-preserved residents of Palermo. Airport transfer buses will pass near the Catacombs on their way from the airport to Palermo’s centre.

Palermo Airport goes by the names of Punta Raisi and Falcone-Borsellino, which can sometimes appear confusing to tourists, especially at the end of their holidays when they are looking to get from the city to Palermo airport. Luckily the Palermo airport transfer drivers will know where they are going.

The airport is Sicily’s gateway airport to Palermo’s neighbouring regions and attractions. Beyond Palermo is Caccamo, a countryside town that also has catacombs to visit; Castelbuono, with its castle; and Monreale on the mountainside to the south of Palermo, with its ornate cathedral.

Mount Etna is a full three and half hours from Palermo airport, situated nearer to the port town of Catania on the east coast, so be sure to choose a comfortable mode of travel. It is well worth the journey, of course. This is one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and of the active ones in Europe, it is the second largest, reaching a height of over 3300 metres. It is serviced by 4×4 buses, cable cars, and an observatory. There are awe-inspiring guided walks that enable a safe visit to the crater. Like the beautiful Sicilian landscape and Palermo’s historic sites, Mount Etna will ‘blow you away’.

Giulio Monreotti is a shuttle driver, driving from the airport to Palermo and other routes for Shuttle Direct. They provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

Walking in Italy doesn’t usually conjure up images of a peaceful city break sauntering around the sites of Rome, but there’s no reason why this shouldn’t be the case.  The term ‘flaneuring’ was coined by Charles Baudelaire in 1917 and is defined as’ a person who walks a city in order to experience it’. With ancient history and Roman architecture around almost every corner in Rome, there has never been a more apt city to ‘flaneur’.

An ‘Angels and Demons’ themed walk is a beautiful and unique way to see the main sites of Rome and whilst many tour companies offer themed tours there’s no reason why you shouldn’t go it alone.

Earth

The first stop on our walk in Italy is the Church of Santa Maria Del Popolo, a notable Augustinian Church which stands to the north side of the Piazza Del Popolo. The church has five smaller chapels located inside and the most notable of these is The Chigi Chapel. This features in ‘Angels and Demons’ as the element of earth and here the statue of Habakkuk and the Angel point out the path of illumination. The skeleton cupermiento covers the subterranean crypt, and a demon’s hole where the first Cardinal is found murdered inside the book.

Air

The second element mentioned in ‘Angels and Demon’s’ is air and the next stop on our walk in Italy is St. Peter’s Church and square.

The site is famous for being the largest Christian church in the world and the lavish piazza commissioned by Bernini has the effect of humbling all those that visit it. The church features the beautiful Papal altar with a golden coffer surrounded by ninety-nine glowing oil lamps which are said to burn until the end of time.

Fire

The fourth Cardinal in the book is hung by incensor cables and burnt alive in the Santa Maria della Vittoria, the next stop on our walk in Italy. This church is notable for featuring the beautiful and astonishing Ecstasy of St. Teresa, which was also designed by Bernini. At the time the statue was built it was described as the “most unfit ornament to be placed in a Christian Church’ and deemed pornographic.

Water

The beautiful and intricately designed Fountain of Four Waters located at Piazza Navona is the final stop on your Angels and Demons tour. The piazza was once a stadium built by order of Emperor Domitian, but is now one of the most peculiar squares you’ll encounter on a walk in Italy. In the middle of the piazza is Bernini’s tribute to water with the four male figures portraying the four continents where the Catholic Religion had spread at the time the fountain was commissioned in 1650, and, of course, the four most important rivers of the Old World: the Rio della Plata, the Nile, Ganges and Danube.

In the film these locations make up the ‘Four Altars of Science’ and are believed to hold the key to the meeting place of the Illuminati. However, even if you’re not a fan of Dan Brown’s books these sites should be experienced, even if for nothing other than the sheer beauty of their ancient architecture.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. A long-established and highly respected company, they have been operating since 1946 and now offer over 250 holidays in more than 70 different countries. Their dedication to quality and experience of all things related to walking in Italy make them a superb choice for the discerning traveller.

The birthplace of opera, Italy is well known for its classical music. The piano and violin were invented in Italy, and the influence of Italian composers is notable, with their development of musical forms such as the symphony, concerto and sonata, establishing the foundation for centuries of musical development.

The home towns of each classical composer have a long musical heritage, and you can get a feel for the musical atmosphere of each town by visiting them on a walking holiday in Italy. Stroll through the streets as you learn about its musical mysteries, and if you’re lucky, you might get a chance to see some live performances.

Venice and Vivaldi

Antonio Lucio Vivaldi was born in Venice in 1678. During this time, opera was the most popular music form, inspiring much of Vivaldi’s bold works and resulting in his many operatic compositions. Walking in Italy, particularly in Venice, will allow you to see the grand Baroque architecture of the time to which this music belongs.

Vivaldi’s father, Giovanni Battista, taught him how to play the violin. Finding musical inspiration in walking in Italy, they toured together performing for locals. Walks in Italy will allow you to tread in their footsteps, as you make your way around this musical country.

Scarlatti’s Operas in Palermo

Scarlatti was born in 1660, in Palermo. Walking in Italy is particularly beautiful in the south, where Palermo lies. Scarlatti’s musical influence extends from the south to Rome, where he studied under Giacomo Carissimi. Rome is one of the best cities for a walking holiday in Italy, and a stop in this city will not only give you insight into Scarlatti’s music, but also into its ancient history.

Scarlatti’s sister was an opera singer, and he composed many operas inspired by her singing. Some of his finest works were produced at the Teatro Capranica in Rome, one of the city’s most famous opera houses. On a walking holiday in Italy, visiting these musically noteworthy sites is a must.

Touring Genoa and Parma with Paganini

Niccolo Paganini was born in Genoa in 1782. He is known as a pillar of modern violin technique, with his Caprice in A minor being inspirational to many composers. Listening to the country’s music when walking in Italy will give you some indication of Paganini’s influence on its musical development.

Growing up, Paganini sought musical guidance from Paer and Ghiretti in Genoa. He then spent many years touring through the area, performing frequently and gaining local support. But it was not until 1813 that he began to receive recognition across Europe. His concert at La Scala in Milan was hugely successful, spreading his name across the continent. Walks in Italy can lead you in this composer’s footsteps, from Genoa and Parma to the exciting city of Milan.

Verdi’s Opera’s in Busseto

Giuseppe Fortunino Francesco Verdi was born in 1813 in Le Roncole, a small village just outside of Busseto. Known primarily for his operas, Verdi’s works have had great influence all over the world. Hum the tune of ‘La donna e mobile’ on a walking holiday in Italy, as you wander through the towns and footpaths once trodden by this great composer.

Later in his life, Verdi moved to Milan, a musical centre at the time. His operas are still performed all over Europe today, and are pillars of excellence for classical operatic composition. When walking in Italy, you could enjoy an evening of opera at one of the many theatres performing Verdi’s works.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing for Ramblers Countrywide Holidays. Ramblers Worldwide have been operating since 1946 and now offer over 250 holidays in more than 70 different countries.  They are dedicated to providing the very finest holidays walking in Italy at the best value prices.

If you are lucky enough to spend an extended break in Florence you will be able to explore at your leisure and really get under the skin of this enigmatic city. However, if you are like the many visitors, perhaps on a holiday walking in Italy, who arrive in Florence with only a short time to spare, there are certain experiences that you really shouldn’t miss.

Morning

After rising early to the sounds of Florence awakening, set off for a stroll through the empty streets. Walking in Italy in the early hours through the echoing cobbled streets and alleys of Florence can be a truly magical experience. Say “Buongiorno” to the cafe owners as they set up their tables around the piazzas; smell the aromas of fresh coffee and pastries as they waft down the deserted streets; and enjoy the magnificent architecture in peace without the crowds jostling for the best vantage. Feel free to run your hands along the cool stone of the Duomo and marvel at the intricate craftsmanship. Finish your walk in the piazza by enjoying a traditional breakfast, of coffee, pastry and people watching.

A Day in the City

With only a day in Florence, you’ll need to be choosy as to how you spend your time. One could, in reality, spend the entire day just walking. In Italy there is a wonderful surprise around every corner, and Florence is no exception. However, you will always regret it if you don’t visit at least a few of the famous sights.

Obviously the Duomo should be high on your list, and you will certainly not be disappointed by the awe-inspiring interior and fabulous sweeping views from the top. However, the Baptistery, just next door, is sometimes overlooked in the rush and is every bit as breathtaking. The intricate mosaics which adorn the ceilings are nothing short of stunning. Another must see on your one-day agenda would have to be the famous Uffizi gallery. Pre-book so you can avoid the queues, and then wander through the rooms and corridors filled with one of the most extensive collections of art in the world. If you still haven’t had your fill of culture, then head to the fabulous Pitti Palace or the Accademia which are both extraordinarily beautiful.

The Evening

By the time the sun begins to set you will probably be footsore but happy, and full to the brim with your memories of an inspiring day. Florence will now have become Firenze, and your experiences walking in Italy’s most beautiful city will be embedded in your heart and soul forever. As you sip an aperitivo at a tiny out of the way bar and plan to try and find your way back to that amazing restaurant you saw earlier for your dinner, you will gaze around you in awe and realise with surprise, that you have fallen head over heels in love – with Florence.

About The Author:

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, they now offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in more than 90 different countries. While walking in Italy with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, you can walk the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices.

When I transport people from the airport to Palermo, I find myself discussing the aspects of Palermo that most appeal to me. It’s the festivals of Palermo that I really love, where the whole atmosphere of the city makes me want to dance and sing, and celebrate with the other members of the community. As I drive passengers from Palermo airport, I find myself talking about festivals even if they have already past! But I believe it is still inspirational to know about these things, because it teaches people about the spirit of Palermo and its rich history.

U Festini Festival

U Festini is my favourite of the summer festivals. It has such a great atmosphere and it features fantastic music and dancing throughout its duration. It’s probably the festival I talk about most when I’m on Palermo airport transfers. For 5 solid days, the people of Palermo dance, sing and drink (not excessively, of course!), and the city is alive with happy people and exciting entertainment.

The festival is dedicated to St Rosalia, the patron saint of Palermo. She means a lot to the locals, and she almost always comes up when I’m talking to my Palermo airport transfer passengers. During the festival, relics of St Rosalia are paraded through the city streets, and she is honoured by the community. The festival usually runs from the 10^th to the 15^th of July, making 5 days of summer celebrations.

Palermo di Scena Festival

Another fantastic festival that I always tell my passengers about on transfers in Palermo, is the festival of Palermo di Scena. This festival is great because it stretches right over the summer months, so often the information I can give to my passengers is relevant to their stay.

Summertime is great in Palermo, with children playing in the sunshine and the long days being made even more entertaining by festivals and performances that take place during the summer months. I always recommend coming to Palermo in summer to all my passengers on transfers in Palermo.

During Palermo di Scena Festival, you’ll have a wide range of theatrical and musical performances to choose from, and you certainly won’t be bored during your stay. If you’re a cinema-fanatic, you’ll certainly enjoy the cinema screenings, and as I always say to my Palermo airport transfer passengers, there’s something for everyone at the Parlermo di Scena Festival.

Palermo Puppet Festival

The Palermo Puppet Festival is really all about having fun. But it’s an art too. And the festival showcases some of the most brilliant puppeteers in the world. I always recommend this festival when chatting with passengers on the drive from Palermo airport, as it is an interesting event to attend. It’s held in September, when Palermo is still enjoying the milder autumn weather, so it’s the perfect time to visit the city.

Winter Carnival

One of the best ways to escape the winter chill is to attend a carnival of fun. Whenever I’m transporting tourists from Palermo airport during the winter months, I always recommend the annual Carnival.

Held in the Termini Imeress suburb of Palermo, this jovial carnival will lift your spirit during the chill of winter. The festival takes place in February, and marching bands, float processions and dancing revellers in colourful attire line the streets.

Giulio Monreotti is a shuttle driver, driving from Palermo airport and on other routes for Shuttle Direct. They provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

The Duomo

The iconic cathedral is one of the first things Milan’s holiday makers are keen on seeing when they visit. Generally speaking, people who have visited the famous building are full of praise for it’s beauty and stunning architecture, though a few have noted that its insides are comparatively drab and dull. What everyone says though is that you should be sure to head up to the roof for the highlight of your Milan holiday. Although it costs a few Euros to take the stairs or lift, I have lost count of the number of passengers who haven’t been able to praise the stunning views of the city enough! The consensus is that a visit to the Duomo is an essential part of your Milan sightseeing, even if you are not Catholic!

La Scala Opera

The opera house isn’t to everyone’s tastes, by any means, but if you love your classical music or simply think that La Scala is something you should experience, Milan holiday makers are blown away… if they can get a ticket! Most of the tickets are like gold dust – and paying a small fortune does not even mean you will be able to see. Indeed, many of the seats are labelled listening only, while others will suffer neck strain trying to get a decent view of the performance. That said, those who have been have nothing but positives to say about the atmosphere and the wonderful architecture of the old theatre.

San Siro/Stadio Giuseppe Meazza

The home of Inter and AC Milan gets special praise from visitors to the city. Although many just take the stadium tour (which, be warned is not available on matchdays), plenty of my shuttle clients have taken in full matches. The advice is to take the 3^rd tier seats if possible – as you get to walk up the spiral ramps get to your seat, taking in some great views along the way, as well as getting a splendid view of the whole pitch. Prices compare favourably to watching football in the UK – between £10 and £20. Far cheaper than watching a Premiership match, and arguably a better standard of football! It may not be a conventional part of Milan sightseeing, but my passengers have nothing but praise for one of the most famous stadia in Europe.

Castello Sforzesco

Many castle buffs I’ve met on my Milan airport transfers state that the Castello Sforzesco is not only visually appealing, but also a fascinating insight into the country’s middle-age history. It is not – like many British castles – furnished in period fittings, but instead houses hundreds of artefacts, antiques and relics from the city’s history. If that’s your thing, I’m reliably told you could be busy here all day!

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

This architecturally appealing boutique shopping area of Milan is a favourite for visitors on their way from the airport, but often they have been left disappointed by the limited array of shops and aesthetics. Others seem to feel it’s an outstanding day out though, so perhaps it’s a case of expectations too high for those who are disappointed.

In all my years in providing Milan airport transfers, I’ve never met anyone who has been disappointed with their stay in Italy’s cultural city. What’s more, a fair proportion of them declare that they’ll be back again in the next few years, given the amount there is to see and do. And when they do – assuming they take my Milan airport transfer – I’ll be on hand to offer them advice based on what my other customers have recommended!

Mauro Autista is a Milan airport shuttles driver for Shuttle Direct. They provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

A Walk after Breakfast

If you want to get the most out of a holiday walking in Italy you’ll do well to set off early in the morning. Especially if you’re travelling in the hotter months, the Tuscan sun can be fierce and it’s best to take advantage of the cool of the morning. But if you’re going to be full of energy and ready to tackle those sometimes not-so-undulating hills, you’ll need to be fuelled up with a good breakfast. The traditional Tuscan breakfast has not changed much over hundreds of years, so what you sit down to today, is, by and large, the same as the peasants would have enjoyed before a day at work in the fields. The Italians do not really have an equivalent of the ‘full English’ fry up or a bowl full of sugary cereal. Instead, their breakfasts consist of an assortment of fresh, sweet pastries, some hearty Tuscan bread with home-made conserves or farm-fresh honey, and several different varieties of cheese. Of course, you will have several cups of the ubiquitous Italian coffee, and perhaps an accompaniment of fresh fruit as well. One thing you will never feel in Tuscany is hunger – and while walking in Italy you’ll burn off plenty of calories, but there’s plenty more to be had at your next meal!

Relax Over Lunch

Let’s set the scene, you’ve been walking through rolling Tuscan hills since early morning, skipping through sunflower fields and exploring tumble-down stone barns; but what’s that in the distance? Ah, now it becomes clear; it’s the wonderfully verdant local vineyard where you’re scheduled to stop for lunch. This is no fantasy, but in fact very commonplace when you’re on holiday walking in Italy. You will arrive at the vineyard to be greeted by the famous Tuscan hospitality in the form of your host, the proprietor, and immediately your taste buds will be assailed. Delicious anti-pasti of pecorino, prosciutto, carciofi and other delightfully Italian-sounding treats will appear in a continuous stream of gastronomic offerings. Accompanied by the house vintage, these dishes will make you wonder why you never thought to try cheese dipped in cloudy honey before; or how a clump of solidified pigs fat can take on the name ‘lardo’ and become such an irresistible delicacy! Then, just when you know for sure that you can eat no more, the main course arrives…

Work Up an Appetite for Dinner

Often, Italian lunches and dinners blend into one long social occasion, so in a lot of instances, the food is the same for either. In Italy, pasta is actually a starter course and you will be expected to eat a hearty dish of home-made fettucine or spaghetti, and then follow it with the main attraction. On a holiday walking in Italy, you may be surprised at the size of your appetite from all that exercise and, after a few evenings, you will be eating like a local! So, what to expect for your ’secondi’? Traditional Tuscan dishes are heavily meat-based using rabbit, pork, beef and the ultimate meat-lovers taste treat – wild boar. Delicious, seasonal vegetable dishes accompany the meats and exotic wild treats like fennel, chestnuts, sage and thyme are basic staples of the Tuscan cuisine. Leave room for some fabulous Tiramisu like you’ve never tasted before or, if you’re feeling a trifle heavy, opt for some authentic Italian gelato – just don’t forget to leave room for breakfast tomorrow….

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, they now offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in more than 90 different countries. While walking in Italy with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, you can walk the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices.

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Pizza-making in Italy certainly isn’t a slap-dash affair and, it’s only right that, a nation that loves its food so much, may lay down a few rules in order to prevent just anyone claiming to produce an authentic pizza. In fact, for a pizza to be classed as an authentic Neapolitan it must abide by rules proposed by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana. There are three different types of Neapolitan pizza; the Marinara made with tomato, garlic, oregano, basil and olive oil; the Margarita with tomato, mozzarella, basil and extra virgin olive oil; and Margarita Extra where the mozzarella is served in fillets from the Campania region. A Neapolitan pizza,that abides by these rules is classed as a Traditional Speciality Guaranteed product, under an EU regulation that protects food from a certain region. In fact, all the ingredients for an authentic Neapolitan pizza can be found locally, and walking in Italy’s Campania region should allow you to pick up everything you need to make Italy’s most famous pizza.

San Marzano Tomatoes

Walking in Italy’s south instantly conjures up images of a few places that you simply can’t afford to miss. One of these is Mount Vesuvius, a dormant volcano that occasionally emits a few streams of lava. From the top of this breathtaking mountain you can see images out over the Bay of Naples, Capri, Ischia and the Almafi Coast. However, walking in Italy’s most active volcanic region certainly isn’t an easy affair and walkers should be warned that the hike is quite strenuous. There is, however, another reason that you may be tempted to visit the fertile soils of Mount Vesuvius and that is to collect the first of your ingredients, juicy San Marzano tomatoes which grow on the fertile soils to the south of the volcano.

Buffalo Mozzarella

Another scenic walk around the Campania region is in the rustic area of Lazio. In this area, verdant hills give way to sprawling rustic towns, and the region is one of the most attractive and traditional in the whole country. Lazio is home to the Abruzzo National Park and, in the town of Opi, mountain-life is still very prevalent. Whilst walking in Italy you’ll be able to watch the locals hand-make pecorino cheese and ricotta, but the cheese that you’re here to collect is buffalo mozzarella; made from the milk of the water buffalo that roam in a semi-wild state in this area.

Cooking Your Pizza

Now that you’ve collected these two ingredients, you’re well on your way to making an authentic Neapolitan pizza. The first part of your lesson involves making the dough or the base of your pizza. You’ll be shown the traditional way to work the dough in an Italian cookery class. The dough needs to be both formed and kneaded by hand and should be no more than 3mm thick. You can then choose your Neapolitan topping to place on the dough, before baking it in a traditional stone oven for no more than 90 seconds. However, if you’re not yet convinced by your own culinary genius, you may want to eat out at one of any number of Naples’ famous pizzerias. The Antica Pizzeria Brandi, which still stands in town, is the pizzeria where pizza was first invented and once you’ve tried your hand at creating your own authentic Neapolitan pizza it’s worth going back and seeing how it compares to the original.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, they now offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in more than 90 different countries. While walking in Italy with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, you can walk the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices.

Thank you for visiting Travel Articles Directory. Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Apart from its stunning natural setting, which offers arguably the most beautiful walking in Italy, and its fascinating Etruscan history, Siena is most famous for the unique bi-annual ‘Palio’ horse race. The Palio di Siena is one of the most exciting events on the Italian calendar and the thrill of attending this frenetic, heart-stopping race is a true once in a lifetime experience.

The race is steeped in the loyalty and history of the town’s ‘Contrade’; the districts into which it is divided. Each individual Contrada has its own coat of arms, emblems and patron saints, and each is fiercely loyal to their ancient roots. There are seventeen Contrade today, but the number was originally as high as fifty-nine, and ten take part in the pageantry of the Palio which is held in July and August every year. The Campo – the central town square – is transformed into a sawdust-strewn track, and thousands of people pack tightly into the central piazza around which the race is run. The only entrances to the square are closed off minutes before the race begins, and once you’ve been locked out there’s no way to enter, even by walking in. Italy’s most celebrated traditional horse race is all year in the preparation; three days of festivities in the build-up; yet unbelievably, the race itself is over in a mere two minutes.

The preparation for the Palio begins as soon as the previous year’s race finishes, but the true party kicks off with the three-day festival which precedes the race. The entire city is adorned with the brightly coloured flags and emblems of the Contrade, and the carnival atmosphere is contagious. There are banquets, parades, blessings of the horses and all other manner of pomp and circumstance which the Sienese so love. If you are lucky enough to be in Siena for the Palio, it is hard not to get tangled up in the allegiances of the Contrade and everyone will find a favourite to cheer on.

When the hour of the race approaches you must join thousands of spectators jostling and shoving for a prime position in the square. If you are one of the very, very lucky, or know a local with an apartment overlooking the square, you can sit back from a prime position and watch the crowd, like so many thousands of ants, walking in. Italy’s most famous horse race is about to begin.

It is hard not to get caught up in the excitement of the moment, and the roar of the crowd from the piazza as well as the overlooking apartments is deafening. After several circuits of the track by traditionally dressed horsemen, musicians and race participants, the race proper is ready to start. The steward calls for silence and after an obligatory two, three and sometimes many more, false starts – they’re off! Two hair-raising laps around the piazza, with many thrills and quite a few spills, and the victor is decided. It’s over for another year, but the festivities continue well into the next few weeks for the winning Contrada – the prestige associated with winning the Palio is the best prize of all, and next year, they’ll be back to do it all again.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, they now offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in more than 90 different countries. On walking in Italy with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, you can walk the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices.

3 Italian Cities to Explore on Foot

Italy is not short on spectacular scenery. The Dolomites, Tuscany, and the Pelion Peninsula are some of the most popular and beautiful places to go walking in Italy, but if you like to stroll around a city as much as you enjoy hiking up a mountain or along a spectacular coastline, you’ll be well served by the Italian cities.

Whether you want to enjoy exquisite Renaissance architecture, fine churches or cathedrals, or outstanding art and museums, you are sure to find plenty to keep you occupied. Here are three of the finest cities to explore whilst walking in Italy.

Venice

With its interlocking canals and traditional houses, it is regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and Venice more than lives up to the hype. The major sights, such as St Mark’s Square and the Rialto are always crowded, but take a few turns off the main streets and you’ll have the city to yourself.

Venice is a city that endlessly rewards explorers, and days can be spent simply wandering the back streets and enjoying the totally unique architecture and design. Apart from the streets themselves, Venice has long been an important place for European art, with numerous museums showcasing the very best in Renaissance and contemporary artwork. The city is also home to numerous beautiful churches that are filled with paintings by Old Masters. Whatever your interests, Venice is truly one of the best cities to go walking in Italy.

Rome

The Italian capital was at the very heart of the mighty Roman Empire, and today the city is a delightful blend of the ancient and the modern, historical sites combined with a energetic cosmopolitan vibe. The Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum, and the museums of Vatican City are amongst the most famous sights in the world, but the city is filled with galleries, parks, and classical buildings that it will take weeks to fully explore. Some of the very finest restaurants in the world are to be found in Rome, and for a destination that combines major sights with a vibrant and exciting atmosphere, it is hard to beat Rome.

Florence

The beautiful hills of Tuscany are one of the best places to go walking in Italy, but the nearby city of Florence, the capital of the region, should not be neglected if you take a trip to this area. Home to one of the best preserved medieval city centres in Italy, Florence is great place to walk around, with the enormous and spectacular domed cathedral forming the dramatic centrepiece of the city. Florence was at the very centre of the Renaissance movement that transformed Europe, and is home to the most important galleries in Italy. The Galleria dell’Accademia is home to the city’s most famous work, Michelangelo’s David, but there are dozens of other galleries that you shouldn’t miss. Florence combines architectural beauty with great art, all within easy reach of the stunning Tuscan countryside. What more could you ask for?

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, they now offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in more than 90 different countries. On walking in Italy with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, you can walk the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices.

When transporting people on Rome airport transfers, I like to give people a history of the city they are visiting, and I tell them about the different historical sites to see to give them a good overall picture of what Rome is like. People are usually amazed at the history of the city, and they go on to see its fascinating historical sites. You can trace the history of Rome through its architecture, with structures and ancient sites emerging from ancient Rome, renaissance and baroque periods, where the history of the city will intrigue its visitors.

Ancient Rome

I always encourage my Rome shuttle passengers to visit the sites dating back to the ancient Roman period. The Coliseum is one such site, and is a visit I always recommend to my passengers. It is the largest amphitheatre ever built in the Roman Empire, and its intriguing history centres around the fighting of the gladiators there. When I visit the site I imagine the 60,000 spectators that fill the amphitheatre, watching the gladiators in full combat in the arena below. My Rome airport shuttle service really does cover so much more than simply getting from one point to another!

While on the topic of Ancient Rome, I also recommend a visit to the Baths of Casacalla to the passengers on my Rome shuttles. A far more peaceful expedition than one to The Coliseum, strolling around these ancient baths will be a relaxing, yet interesting, trip. Built in about AD 212, these enormous baths can host up to 1,600 bathers. As an example of Ancient Roman architecture, these baths make for an interesting trip out.

Medieval Period

Another period with interesting architecture is the Medieval Period, where my favourite site to chat about on my Rome airport transfers is the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. This fascinating structure is one of the four papal basilicas, and it dates back to the period of Pope Sixtus III who was in the papal seat from 432 to 440. This beautiful site is made of grand Athenian marble columns and many artworks are housed inside.

Below the basilica lies the Crypt of the Nativity, which is something that I always talk about with great excitement to the passengers on my Rome shuttles. I may not be a tour guide, but I certainly have come to know Rome fairly well through my job, and I have an in depth knowledge of the good sightseeing spots. This crypt is the burial place of prominent Catholic figures, making it a deeply spiritual site for many Roman Catholics. But whatever the spiritual beliefs of my Rome airport transfer passengers, I always recommend visiting this site on their holidays.

Renaissance and Baroque

Some of the most beautiful features of Rome are the superbly designed city squares. One of the most famous of these squares is the Piazza del Campidoglio, the result of Michelangelo’s urban design. Surrounded by Renaissance palaces, this is a truly spectacular site, and I highly recommend it to all my passengers on any Rome shuttle ride.

Fabio Carrozi is a Rome airport transfer driver for Shuttle Direct. They provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

Luxury Milan – Tips on the Top Five Luxury Experiences in Milan

Lombardy, the home of Milan, accounts for almost one quarter of the economy of Italy. With the huge economic success of the area, and of Milan in particular, it has become a perfect place for luxury holidays and short breaks. I’ve been driving the Milan shuttles for a fair few years now, and thought I’d explain why we have the best of everything here in Milan; if you can afford it, Milan can offer some of the most luxurious experiences in the world. I’m going give you a rundown of the top five experiences Milan can offer so you can see what I mean…

5. Restaurant: Cracco Peck

Voted one of the world’s top 100 restaurants, Cracco Peck offers sumptuous food and drink at the table of Carlo Cracco, know to many as the last word in Italian cuisine. The restaurant was recently redesigned by top designers Gian Maria and Roberto Beretta, and is even more elegant and inviting than before. Cracco Peck is, without doubt, the best place for luxury cuisine in Milan (and arguably in all of Italy)!

4. Hotel: The Hotel Principe di Savoia

The Hotel Principe di Savoia has been a centre for foreign travellers since the early 1920’s, and has everything you could possibly want from a five star luxury experience. Having been a driver on the Milan shuttles for so long I know all the hotels well, but this has to be the cream of the crop. They have a first class spa, restaurant, meeting rooms and a pool. The rooms are also what you’d expect from five star luxury, with a variety of suites to suit your personal choice and all the usual refinements.

3. Scenery: Lake Como

While not in the city itself, you can get a train, taxi or one of several shuttles from Milan to the area. Lake Como is one of the most beautiful places on earth, and is the backdrop for some of the best spas, short break hotels and lake cruises in Italy. Crowned by the thrusting mountains, the smooth, deep blue lake water is breathtaking, and shows off natural luxury at its greatest.

2. Entertainment: La Scala

La Scala – or Teatro alla Scala to give it its full name – is one of the world’s most famous opera houses. It has played host to hundreds of famous productions and directors, including Daniel Barenboim and Toscanini. Inaugurated on 3 August 1778, the theatre has weathered World War Two bombings and rough renovations, and remains a meeting place for the wealthy and influential in Milan. Seeing an opera or recital there in the luxury boxes is magical, and the height of Milanese entertainment and culture.

1. Shopping: Via Montenapoleone

One of the most ommon things people on Milan airport transfers ask me is “Where’s the best shopping area?” Milan is known for its fashion boutiques and high end shops, and my answer is always the same. For luxury shopping, you have to go to the Milan fashion district, and specifically to the Via Montenapoleone. With boutiques representing Armani, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Prada and more, this is the epitome of stylish, luxury Milan.

Mauro Autista drivers one of the Milan shuttles for Shuttle Direct. They provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.