When in Florence, don’t miss out on these

There are so many fascinating sights in Florence, so many it could become overwhelming! Use this advice… Opera Di Santa Maria Del Fiore di Firenze A statue by Michelangelo, Brunelleschi’s death mask, a Magdalen by Donatello and the Baptistery’s original bronze-gilded panels are just some of the treasures in this dramatic new museum that displays everything that didn’t […]

Top Picks of the month

In this month’s round-up, take your pick from wall art, scented candles and stylish chairs, chocolate treats, luxury perfume, and even some clever ideas for the kitchen… Angel spice A sprinkle of this wild fennel pollen from Calabria releases heavenly flavour – think aniseed and honey. £15 for 15g, from www.souschef.co.uk Light a candle Her […]

Q+A: Buying a property in Veneto

Our experts are here to help with all your questions about Italy. This week, we are looking at buying a property in the Veneto region… Q: My partner and I are frequent visitors to Venice and are looking into the possibility of buying a modest property in the Veneto – somewhere quieter and more rural […]

A Grand Tour of Puglia

The expression ‘Grand Tour’ was coined by Richard Lassels, a 17th-century Roman Catholic priest and travelling tutor, in his book The Voyage of Italy, Or a Compleat Journey Through Italy. Lassels included many northern Italian towns and central locations, but the remarkable region of Puglia does not get a mention. Perhaps lost to him were […]

Top 5 Italian Cheeses

With so many wonderful regional specialities, it’s a hard choice to make, but these five formaggi could rival cheeseboards from anywhere in the world… 1. Mozzarella di bufala Campania It may seem controversial to place mozzarella above Parmigiano Reggiano, but few could argue that this luxurious, creamy delight now has an unassailable place in kitchens worldwide, and […]

Things to do in Italy on Valentine’s Day

Whether you’re loved up or free as a bird, here are three great things to get involved in around Valentine’s Day in Italy Cioccolentino 10-14 February Terni It might be something to do with the fact that it’s an aphrodisiac, but romantics have been treating their significant others to chocolate for years. If you fancy […]

Top Italian Valentine’s Day Gifts

How do the Italians celebrate la Festa di San Valentino in Italy? Well, only couples celebrate this festival, it doesn’t matter whether they are married or engaged, as long as they are together. They don’t send secret anonymous cards or gifts so our advice is to decide how romantic you want to be and pick a price. We […]

Q+A: Taking an early summer holiday in Puglia

Our experts are here to help with all your questions about Italy. This week, taking an early summer holiday in Puglia. Question: We are planning to rent a family villa in Puglia this year, probably in May. We all like cycling, so are there any rural locations you would recommend? Does Puglia have a cycle […]