Travels with my teen

After two years of pandemic-imposed travel restrictions, Lorenza Bacino enjoys an extended trip to Lake Como, the Cinque Terre and Sardinia with her teenage daughter… It was with some trepidation that I embarked upon a month-long trip with my 16-year-old daughter as a post-exam treat. She’d been involved in the decision-making from the start, using […]

Living in Veneto

Jewel-like cities, golden beaches, sleepy hills and dramatic mountains – this sophisticated northern region has it all. From elegant urban apartments to low-priced rustic retreats, Veneto is a great place to buy property, says Fleur Kinson.   Tucked up in the northeastern corner of Italy, Veneto encompasses an extraordinary array of landscapes. The region’s feet […]

48 hours in Portoferraio

Spending a weekend in Elba’s capital Portoferraio is the best introduction to the island, says Jane Gifford Mythology has it that Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of beauty and love, was visiting one of her many lovers on the Italian mainland when she accidentally broke her string of pearls, and in doing so formed the Tuscan […]

An at-a-glance guide to Florence in Winter

Winter is a great time to visit Florence, and you will see the city in a new light – though if it does happen to snow while you’re there, you’ve been very lucky! You might not find an excuse to stop for a gelato quite as often, but you will avoid the worst of the […]

Parmigiano Reggiano Pull-Apart Garland

This gorgeous garland of pull-apart bread makes a spectacular centrepiece for special occasions ➤ SERVES 8 ➤ PREPARATION 30 minutes (plus time for rising and proving) ➤ COOKING 20-25 minutes Ingredients: 500g White bread flour, plus extra for sprinkling 1 tsp Salt 1 tbsp Caster sugar 1 Rounded tsp. easy-blend yeast 300ml Warm water 4 tbsp Red pesto […]

A tour of the Porticoes of Bologna with Tom Benjamin

Bologna’s historic porticoes, a pervading symbol of the city’s hospitality, have been granted UNESCO World Heritage status. We join novelist and Bologna resident Tom Benjamin for a guided tour of his highlights. (1) The heart and soul of Bologna is Piazza Maggiore, Bologna’s main square, and the porticoes of Renaissance ‘PAVAGLIONE’ prettify what might otherwise […]

A complete Tuscany travel guide: The best towns, seasons, sights and travel tips

Thinking of visiting Tuscany? This complete Tuscany travel guide covers the climate, accommodation, and best places to visit in every region. When many people think of Tuscany, they imagine rolling hills bathed in golden light, scattered with olive groves, vineyards, and timeless stone farmhouses. That postcard-perfect image is real, but it’s only one side of […]

Captivating Castelli

We’ve rounded up some of our favourite Italian castles, so if you’re looking for a memorable day out or a place to stay that’s oozing with history, you’ll find the perfect destination here, says Jenny Oldaker. Italy is so liberally sprinkled with castles, it’s difficult to choose just a few favourites. From solid medieval stone […]