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The White Lotus Itinerary: A Tour of Sicily

January 13, 2023 by Luxury Italian Tours Leave a Comment

If you’ve watched the latest season of The White Lotus on HBO, you might be yearning for an unforgettable vacation in Sicily. Luxury Italian Tours has you covered with highlights of the jaw dropping destinations and locations featured in the smash hit show.

The latest season is filmed around the Sicilian coast in Taormina, Noto, and Palermo. The San Domenico Palace Hotel, the five-star hotel where The White Lotus takes place, sits atop a rocky cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea in Taormina.

San Domenico Palace Hotel, the five-star hotel where The White Lotus takes place

Taormina

Visible from the San Domenico, the main attraction in Taormina is the Teatro Greco. This ancient and majestic theater was built in the 3rd century BC by the Greeks and later expanded by the Romans. Now a cultural center that puts on plays, concerts, and film festivals, it’s a great place to catch live entertainment.

Taormina

While in Taormina, stroll along the medieval Corso Umberto, the pedestrian-friendly main road, and find the Palazzo Corvaja, a palace with Arab, Norman and Gothic architectural characteristics from Taormina’s rich history. Continue your journey down Corso Umberto and reach Piazza IX Aprile, a square with spectacular views of the ocean and Mount Etna. Stop in one of the many cafés along the way for some afternoon granita or espresso. BamBar is known to have the best granita,

The Baroque Towns: Noto, Modica and Ragusa

In The White Lotus, Harper and Daphne visit Noto, a small town on the southeastern coast of Italy known for its baroque architecture. Its most famous sight is the 18th- century Noto Cathedral that sits atop the Piazza Municipio. Across from the Cathedral is the Palazzo Ducezio where you can access a terrace that overlooks the Cathedral and Piazza for the most stunning views.

The Baroque Towns: Noto, Modica and Ragusa

A quick drive away is the town of Modica, another charming historic town. The town is split into two parts: Modica Alta and Modica Bassa. Modica Alta is older and you will find buildings carved from stone. Modica Bassa is the lower, more modern part of town and was built after the 1693 earthquake. Visit the Duomo di San Giorgio, a beautiful baroque church, where 250 steps connect the upper and lower parts of the town.

Don’t leave Modica without stopping for some renowned chocolate. The chocolate-making methods in this area date back to the ancient Aztecs, when the Spanish conquered this region. This scrumptious and crumbly chocolate can be flavored with cinnamon, vanilla, chili, coffee or citrus and is not to be missed.

Another noteworthy stop on this baroque excursion is Ragusa. Attractions at Ragusa include the Ibleo Regional Archaeological Museum, the Hyblaean Garden and over 50 baroque churches. Stop for a snack to try some of Ragusa’s delicacies: the pastieri, small pastries filled with goat and lamb, and scacce, thin dough balls stuffed with ricotta and spinach or sausage.

A Tour of Sicily

Agrigentoand Marzamemi

While in the South of Sicily, it’s worth visiting the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. A UNESCO World heritage site, this is the home of eight Greek temples and ruins that are over 2,500 years old. You can find statues dedicated to Zeus, Icarus, and Heracles.

Marzamemi

Before you head back north, check out the seaside fishing village of Marzamemi. Here you can visit the original tonnara (tuna processing plant) built by the Arabs in the 10th century. The tonnara overlooks the old fishermen’s harbor and is used for extravagant private events.

Marzamemi is known for its seafood delicacies including canned tuna, smoked swordfish, and marinated anchovies. Stop by and have lunch at La Cialoma – and enjoy delectable seafood dishes while taking in the magnificent view of the sea from their terrace.

A tour of Sicily

Siracusa and Ortigia

Heading back North, you can visit Siracusa and its old town center Ortigia. Ortigia is a small island, only 1 kilometer long and 600 meters wide, connected to the rest of Siracusa by 3 bridges. Similar to other parts of Sicily, Ortigia’s architecture has Arab, Roman, and Spanish influence due to its rich cultural history.

As you walk through Ortigia’s historic streets, explore the outdoor markets where you can find artisanal almonds, sun-dried tomatoes, and capers. Walk along Siracusa’s beautiful lungomare, or promenade, and enjoy the calming sights of the ocean. Check out the Temple of Apollo and the Fountain of Diana for more ancient relics.

Outside Siracusa’s historic center, the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis deserves a visit. Here you’ll find the Greek Theater, the largest in Sicily, where you can attend a theater performance in the summer months. Another highlight of the park is the Ear of Dionysus – a quarry with excellent acoustics where prisoners of war were kept in ancient times.

Palermo and Cefalù

Although Daphne and Harper visited Noto, the palazzo they stayed in, a 20 acre private residence named Villa Tasca, is actually located in Palermo. An interesting visit in Palermo is the Palace of Palermo and the elegant and elaborate mosaics inside the Palantine Chapel are not to be missed. Experience local street food at the ancient Ballaro market with origins from the 10th century when the city was under Arab domination.

As you head back to Taormina, you might choose to stop in Cefalù for a beach day. Because of the close proximity to Mt. Etna, the beaches in Taormina were too rocky for filming and so the beaches in Cefalù were used to get the sandy beach shots you see in the show.

If you’re ready to book your White Lotus Itinerary, Luxury Italian Tours and Luxury Italian Villas are here to help. Let us know where you’d like to go and what you’d like to do and we’ll ensure a vacation filled with memories, unmatched luxury, and adventure.

Filed Under: Italy, Travel

A Holiday Blog: Christmas Markets

December 13, 2022 by Luxury Italian Tours Leave a Comment

When you visit a Christmas market in Europe, it’s like stepping inside the pages of the best Christmas story ever written. Glittering lights, dazzling displays, delicious food and drinks, and entirely authentic handcrafted goods are on hand. It’s that magical feeling of Christmas that we have craved since our childhood, mixed with shopping and mulled wine. What’s not to love?

This holiday season, why not put Christmas markets on your wish list and make this holiday dream a reality? If your holiday plans include a trip to Italy, France, Croatia, Greece, or Malta, Luxury Italian Tours has the inside scoop on must-see markets and authentic attractions that are sure to make this Christmas season magical and memorable.

European Markets

What Makes European Christmas Markets So Special

Christmas markets have been a mainstay of European culture dating all the way back to the Middle Ages. The first recorded market of this kind happened in Vienna all the way back in 1298! This original concept was a winter market that allowed local vendors to sell goods to fellow locals in preparation for the long winter ahead.

Over time, the idea grew in popularity and spread across Europe, evolving into something festive and special to be held ahead of the Christmas season. It was a natural evolution as the goods sold at these early markets were often used as Christmas gifts and the spaces lent themselves perfectly for decorations, choral performances, and other events.

These markets were primarily commonplace in German speaking areas at first, but that changed as the tradition became increasingly popular and more widespread. In modern times, Christmas markets are found all over Europe and there are some very special ones to visit in Italy, France, Croatia, Greece, and Malta.

Christmas Markets in Italy

If you are planning this holiday season, we recommend a visit to Tuscany where you can get your Christmas fix there. Montepulciano and Siena have wonderful Christmas markets to visit. Montepulciano has the biggest market in Central Italy and is known for its wooden vendor stalls where visitors can indulge in specialty foods and artisanal goods. Siena is known for its dazzling lights and Christmas village where visitors can find food, wine and crafts from all over Italy.

Rome is also an excellent destination for celebrating the season. From the 8th of December through the first week of January, the Christmas market at Piazza Navona bustles with local vendors, live performers and amusement rides. Another option is the Christmas Village at the Auditorium Parco della Musica. With fair trade items for sale, an ice rink and appearances from Santa, visitors will leave enchanted with the holiday spirit.

The Weihnachtsmarkt market in Florence has been an annual tradition for over 500 years. The market fills the piazza Basilica di Santa Croce with delicious treats from Italy, Austria, Denmark, and Germany. Visitors will love shopping for gifts among the original jewelry, handmade scarves, and one of a kind Christmas ornaments.

The people of Venice take celebrating Christmas to the next level with beautiful Christmas lights and decor all throughout the city. The biggest Christmas market can be found at Campo San Stefano. Known for its Italian specialty foods, visitors can snack on gourmet cakes and homemade pasta while shopping and enjoying live music.

If you want to be fully immersed in all the twinkle and glow that Christmas time offers, look no further than the presepi, or nativity scenes, in Naples. Hundreds of presepi are displayed around town transforming the entire village into a fantastical kingdom fit for the father of Christmas. Visitors can enjoy the largest nativity scene in the world at the Museo Nazionale di San Martino or build their own presepi by purchasing artisan figurines at the historic Via San Gregorio.

Christmas Markets in France

Alsace is a cultural region in Eastern France that borders Switzerland and Germany. Naturally, this area is ripe with Christmas markets due to the proximity and blend of culture in the region. If France is your destination of choice this holiday season, you are in luck. There are several Christmas markets that are worth visiting which are typically open from St. Catherine’s Day (November 25) until just after Christmas.

Capital of Christmas

Strasbourg is affectionately known as the Capital of Christmas. A visit to the Christmas market in Strasbourg is sure to impress. For over four centuries, the Christkindelsmärik has wowed guests and with good reason. You will enjoy gazing into the massive lighted Christmas tree, walking along the hundreds of wooden chalets offering handicrafts and libations, and checking out the unique goods on offer at the “Off” portion of the market that prides itself on giving guests something entirely different.

Colmar has architectural features that make for storybook charm every day of the year. During the Christmas season, the market and its lights, smells, and sounds further the effect. A special aspect of the market here is a wine cellar that focuses on wines from the Alsatian region. Colmar is a quintessential destination during Christmas and one you will not want to miss on your holiday trip to France.

Christmas Markets in Croatia

Croatia

Croatia is an absolute must-visit destination in the Mediterranean. If you plan to spend the Christmas holidays in Croatia, there’s a fantastical Christmas market to visit during your stay. In fact, the Christmas market in Zagreb was voted the best in Europe for the maximum allowed three years running. Jewelry, ceramics, ornaments, and other handicrafts are all available. On top of that, the region is known for its handmade wooden toys that are a UNESCO recognized cultural tradition of significant importance. You will find them in abundance at the Zagreb Christmas market.

Celebrating Christmas in Malta

Malta

Malta is the holiday destination for you if you yearn to be surrounded by people who celebrate the season to its fullest. The spirit of Christmas is alive and well, celebrated both for its religious significance and the social aspect of the season.

Throughout the islands you will find nativity scenes, elaborate displays of cribs, or nativity scenes, made to symbolize the birth of Christ. Cribs are everywhere, from private houses to small chapels. Visiting cribs is a popular activity at Christmastime and many locals spend time going round touring the various ‘presepju’ displays. Some are very artistic and elaborate, with figures moving around mechanically and a degree of detail that comes from hours of meticulous work by dedicated craftsmen.

Christmas carol services and other events are abound. One such event that is a true standout happens at St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta. The congregation hosts a beautiful carol-singing event by candlelight that is equal parts moving and memorable. Other Baroque parish churches across the islands offer events that are just as awe inspiring during advent.

Celebrating Christmas in Greece

Greece

Greece makes us think of sparkling blue water, coastlines dotted with white abodes, and ancient ruins unmatched elsewhere. Many travelers think of Greece as a warm weather destination, but it has so much to offer in the Christmas season as well.

There are some notable Christmas markets in Greece. Athens offers a Christmas market that will certainly inspire good feelings of tidings and joy. However, if you want to see the best Christmas market there is to see in Greece, you have to go to the town of Drama. There you will find the market called Oneiroupoli, which is lined with wooden houses containing the magic of Christmas within.

Christmas markets don’t necessarily steal the show during the holiday season in Greece, however. Visitors will be swept away in the spirit of Christmas with enchanting folktales, specialty cookies and pies, and boats decorated with lights and ornaments. As an added bonus, snow falls in the mountain regions creating a picture-perfect scene.

If you have your spotlight set on a European destination Christmas vacation this year, Luxury Italian Tours is ready to help. Christmas Markets, dazzling decorations, and twinkling lights are abundant and sure to make your holiday season special. Let us know where you’d like to go this Christmas and we will ensure that it’s a Christmas of ease, delight, and beauty to satisfy the most discerning of

Filed Under: Travel

Indian Summer on the Tuscan Coast

September 26, 2022 by Luxury Italian Tours Leave a Comment

When travelers want to head to the coast in Italy, they flock to the Amalfi Coast. But, Italians prefer to enjoy the sea and sandy beaches in some of the lesser known coastal towns along the Tuscan Coast in an area known as Versilia which includes the beachfront towns of Forte dei Marmi and Viareggio. These towns are easily accessible to Florence, Pisa, Lucca, the Cinque Terre and Pietrasanta.

Tuscan Coast

In less than two hours via a direct train from Florence, you can be relaxing at one of Forte dei Marmi’s beach cubs along a sandy seven mile stretch. Here you will enjoy a five star experience with your very own tent, cabana, sun loungers and chairs for a “modest” free. Andrea Bocelli owns Bagno Alpemare, one of the nicest beach clubs in town that has a café, restaurant and a collection of artwork on display.

The best way to explore the area is by bike. There are several rental shops in town and many hotels offer them. There is a bike path that runs along the seaside promenade.

Tuscan Coast

Shopping and dining is another highlight in town. If you are looking for high end shopping, all of the major brands can be found and there is a weekly market held on Saturday and Wednesday that sells a wide ranges of goods from cashmere sweaters to household goods. You will also be spoiled with a number of Michelin starred restaurants and other vibey beachfront restaurants service the daily catch of the day.

Tuscan Coast

Viareggio is another seaside town that is more low key than its posh neighbor. It is also less than two hours from Florence via a direct train and you can also enjoy the beach clubs and seaside atmosphere. It is best known for its annual Carnival, one of the most important in Italy and Europe. Held for five weekends between the second half of January through March, the carnival is renowned for its colossal and colorful floats.

medieval artist town, Pietrasanta

If you are seeking some culture in between swims, the medieval artist town, Pietrasanta, is worth a visit. Many international artists have come to work in the town and have established marble workshops and contemporary art galleries. Many have also donated their work to the town making in a real open-air museum.

Bar Michelangelo in Piazza Duomo

Even Michelangelo came to this town to source the purist white marble from the nearby quarries. He traveled through the hills on foot and by mule, personally checking for the best blocks. Be sure to stop at the popular Bar Michelangelo in Piazza Duomo where a plaque testifies that in 1518, Michelangelo worked there while selecting the marble for the façade of the San Lorenzo church in Florence.

Piazza Duomo

Filed Under: Italy, Travel

The Art of the Aperitivo

June 4, 2022 by Luxury Italian Tours Leave a Comment

Ah, the aperitivo. It is a uniquely Italian tradition that every traveler learns to love during a trip to any region in Italy. When we think of Italy, we naturally think about a vast array of mouth-watering culinary delights and of course, palate-pleasing wines that enhance the dining experience. But there is another time-honored tradition in Italy that centers around Italian cocktails. It’s known as aperitivo and it’s a ritual you will want to enjoy time and again before you tuck into a leisurely meal.

The Art of the Aperitivo with a drink

The Art of the Aperitivo

The word aperitivo comes from the Italian verb aprire, which means “to open.” In this context, we are not talking about opening a door or opening your mind. The art of the aperitivo is intended to open your appetite to all of the delicious delicacies you will be enjoying later. It’s a pre-meal tradition that makes your stomach ready for all the food that is to come.

Although the origins cannot be proven, it is supposed to have begun in Piedmont back in the 18th century. At that time, King Vittorio Emanuele II preferred to have a serving of vermouth before his dinner. This habit was popularized in the next century in Tuscany, where Count Camillo Negroni mixed up a cocktail by chance that included vermouth and was later named the Negroni. It didn’t take long for the aperitivo to become widely practiced and a staple tradition of Italian culture.

What Happens During Aperitivo Time

Italians are known for taking long meals at later hours than what most Americans would consider normal. Aperitivo takes place just as the sun is beginning to set. Bars, restaurants, cafes, and tables on corners are host to this daily routine.

Snacks are set out, which the Italians call cicchetti. These could be small plates with nuts, cheeses, fruits, bite-sized meats or fish, and more. The common thread is that pieces are small and easily eaten by hand. These small snacks are paired with a cocktail and over the course of an hour (or so…) the small bites and carefully-curated cocktails leave you ready for more. In the season premier of Season 2 of Searching for Italy, Stanley Tucci devoured cicchetti and washed it down with un’ombra di vino, or a small glass of wine.

Choice Aperitivo Cocktails

Naturally, there are a number of choices you can make when selecting a cocktail or two to activate the appetites. In Italy, the aperitivo tends to have offerings of some of the best and most well-known Italian cocktails. They are light on alcohol and high in spice and enzymes, herbs and bubbles, making them perfect pre-dinner drinks. Prosecco is a star player in many of the concoctions.

Aperol Spritz: A delightfully bitter and bubbly cocktail made with prosecco, aperol, club soda, and garnished with a slice of orange. See the full recipe here.

Negroni: The “original” drink popularized for the aperitivo, this cocktail is made of gin, Campari, and vermouth served with an orange garnish. Make yourself the perfect one with this recipe.

Americano: James Bond himself famously ordered this drink in the opening scene of “Casino Royale.” It is mixed with Campari, vermouth, and a heaping helping of club soda. This one is also garnished with a wedge of orange. Mix it up like Bond by following this recipe.

Bellini: For a sweet and refreshing option, you can’t go wrong with a Bellini. It’s crafted from peach puree and prosecco and naturally, it is garnished with a fresh slice of peach. Impress your friends by following this recipe before your next dinner party.

Sgroppino: Making a rare appearance at the aperitivo is a vodka-based drink that is created with prosecco, vodka, and a scoop of lemon sorbet. Oooh la! One sip of this drink and you will be sold on the daily aperitivo in no time. Check out the full recipe here.

No matter where your Italian travels take you, the art of the aperitivo is sure to be available. If you are considering taking your next trip to Italy, we can help. Luxury Italian Tours is poised to take care of everything you need from the finest villas available for rent to tours designed to indulge the most discerning of travelers. Contact us today to learn how we can make your Italian tour the trip of a lifetime.

Filed Under: Italy

Cinque Terre is Only the Beginning of Discovering Liguria

May 4, 2022 by Luxury Italian Tours Leave a Comment

Tourists flock to the region of Liguria to visit Cinque Terre, which is home to five picturesque seaside towns connected by a walking path, but this coastal region has so much more to offer. Visitors looking to enjoy breathtaking scenery, delicious food and wine, and less crowds–for now–need to consider adding Liguria to their Italian tour itinerary.

Touching the Borders of Tuscany and Piemonte

The Liguria region of Italy is perfectly located between Piedmont and Tuscany, making it an absolutely ideal stop in between visiting these two popular tourist regions. Liguria is composed of a narrow coastline that curves around the Ligurian Sea due north of the island of Sardinia. A part of the Italian Riviera, it boasts stunning landscapes of seaside cliffs and mountain ranges.

Cinque Terre: The Path Connecting Five Towns

Cinque Terre: The Path Connecting Five Towns

The Cinque Terre, a collection of five seaside towns connected via a walking path, has mesmerized travelers and they flock in droves. The villages of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso have their own characteristics.

The largest village is Monterosso, which is also the least ‘vertical’ meaning that you won’t have to climb as much as in the others. The town also boasts the only sandy beach in Cinque Terre.

Proceeding east you reach the most famous village, Vernazza, characterized by its small harbor and seafront medieval church. It’s full of restaurant and bars, and often quite crowded – as opposed to its neighbor, Corniglia, which is the quietest of all.

Manarola is probably the most photographed village, thanks to its terraced vineyards that overlook the delightful port and the dramatic cliffs.

Riomaggiore features tower homes, a castle and a small rocky beach. It is the starting point of different hiking trails, most notably the Passeggiata dell’Amore (love path) which is slated to reopen in 2023.

Chic City of Portofino and Casual Seaside Towns

Chic City of Portofino and Casual Seaside Towns

Visitors to Liguria would be remiss to skip a visit to the chic city of Portofino. Dotted with colorful houses, luxury shopping, quaint cafes, and extensive outdoor activities make it a city with options for everyone. For discerning palates, travelers can enjoy a Michelin-starred dining experience at Cracco Portofino and savor creative prepared dishes while perched over the sea. For breathtaking views, let us plan an experience at a local farm where all of your senses will be touched at the table and in the garden.

Camogli: One of the most picturesque villages

Camogli is one of the most picturesque villages off the beaten path that rests under the radar. It’s a typical fishing hamlet with candy-colored homes and a small harbor. The pedestrian promenade is magical to stroll along and oozes the ancient atmosphere of this maritime village.

Chiavari

Chiavari possesses a different vibe than its laid back neighbors. Its historic center is characterized by wide porticoes, stately palaces and artisan workshops. Here you local artisans welcome visitors in their workshops as they proudly carry on centuries of family traditions with great passion

Genoa, Liguria’s capital, is one of those captivating Italian cities that also remains off the tourist radar. You can easily get lost in the carruggi, or narrow cobblestone streets, of the medieval quarter, one of Europe’s largest.

Historical Sites

Travelers with an interest in history and architecture will find ample opportunities for learning and exploration. The abbey of San Fruttuoso provides an iconic image of the region itself. Part of its allure is due to its hard-to-reach location, which finds it surrounded by lush woods on either side and the sea to the front.
The abbey of San Fruttuoso

Local Culinary Delicacies: Pesto

If pesto is something that delights your palette, you are in the right place when visiting Liguria. Pesto can be used to describe any paste or sauce that is made with mashed herbs and oils but the “real thing” in Liguria is a protected recipe, which must be made with exact ingredients in a very specific way. Authentic pesto is made from basil grown in Genoa, pine nuts, Parmigiano-Reggiano, Pecorino, garlic, salt, and olive oil. The simple, but wildly delicious sauce is wonderful when spread on top of trofie, the queen of Genovese pasta, which holds the pesto best given its particular shape.

Also “born” in Liguria is the flat bread known as focaccia and there is no better place on Earth to indulge in its crispy, lightly-oiled, goodness. This is commonly found on the street, where you can grab it fresh from the oven and eat it as-is, dipped in sauce, or smothered in a tasty spread. Our favorite spot is Focacceria Revello in the heart of Camogli. These pillowy slices of bread are airy and light, but our preference is a thinner, crepe-like version stuffed with local cheese that oozes out with every bite. If you are lucky enough to be there when a batch comes out of the oven, you will experience a slice of heaven.

Regional Wines

Wines have been produced since the Etruscan and Roman times. Liguria is home to over 100 varieties of grapes and there are eight DOC wines (DOC stands for Denomination of Controlled Origin: an Italian certification with the aim to protect the quality and authenticity of Italian wines).

However, the landscape of Liguria with its steep slopes and cliffs makes wine growing an absolutely valiant pursuit. Grapes must be harvested by hand and the grapes are transported in baskets on the shoulders of the farmers. This results in small batches of precious wines that have been painstakingly produced. Be sure to try a crisp, dry white Vermentino or Sciacchetrà, a sweet wine that is typically paired with desserts or cheese.

the landscape of Liguria

Set Sail

A private boat trip is one of the great ways to discover the beautiful coastline with its rugged cliffs, turquoise water and colorful fishing villages away from the crowds.

The region of Liguria has so much to offer, with options to suit every traveler’s tastes. Although tourists flock to Cinque Terre making it quite crowded, visits further afield will allow for a more open, less congested experience–at least for now. Luxury Italian Tours can help plan the ideal itinerary to this region, while crowds remain less thick.

Filed Under: Italy, Travel

Tips for Drinking Coffee Like a Real Italian

April 13, 2022 by Luxury Italian Tours Leave a Comment

Coffee lovers who travel to Italy have the opportunity to drink some of the finest coffee found anywhere in the world. In fact, the agricultural ministry to Italy’s national UNESCO commission is presenting a bid to the U.N. body’s headquarters in Paris to have their espresso be given heritage status.

Italy currently holds such status for a slew of customs and traditions including truffle hunting, Neapolitan pizza, the Mediterranean diet, Sicilian puppet theater, and the craftsmanship that created Stradivari violins. Soon, the country may very well have official bragging rights for their espresso, too.

The art of drinking coffee is embedded in Italian culture with almost the entire population drinking a cup every day. Italians take their coffee seriously…very seriously. And the last thing you want to do as a tourist is fumble the time-honored tradition with a faux pas.

Show your appreciation by preparing yourself in advance to enjoy this ritual like a true Italian. If you want to drink like a local, you need to follow some basic coffee rules while in Italy. The keys to your coffee-drinking success? You need to know what you order, at what time of day to drink a certain style of coffee and where and how you drink it.

Tips for Drinking Coffee Like a Real Italian

Italians Drink Espresso

When you saunter up to the counter to order a “caffè”, there is only one type of drink you will get: an espresso. There will not be a plethora of options in size, flavors, or sweeteners. This is not Starbucks.
Don’t call it an espresso, either. Just call it a caffè because for Italians, a “coffee” IS an espresso. The espresso will be served in a shot glass and it is served up strong. If you need an extra jolt, order a doppio espresso which are two espresso shots.

If you care for milk in your espresso, don’t order a latte. Latte is the Italian word for milk so ordering a latte will simply get you a cup of milk. However, if you like your coffee creamy, you can lighten up that espresso by ordering a macchiato, which gets you an espresso with a dash of steamed milk.

If you’re looking for something more like what you get back home, you can have it but you will certainly not be ordering like a true Italian. In fact, you will have to order a caffe ́ Americano, which is an espresso with added hot water served in a regular coffee cup, with or without milk and sugar.

Finally, you can enjoy the mother of all white coffees, the cappuccino, which tops an espresso with a generous dollop of frothy steamed milk and may be accompanied by a sprinkle of chocolate.
Which leads us to our next set of tips…

Italian espresso with a generous dollop of frothy steamed milk and may be accompanied by a sprinkle of chocolate

Never Order Cappuccino After a Meal

If you want to honor the Italian coffee culture, you will never, ever order a cappuccino after a meal. It’s not that Italians don’t drink coffee after meals, because drinking an espresso is acceptable, even after dinner.

It’s that Italians believe that dairy interferes with the digestion process so they never, ever order anything with milk after eating. In fact, if you want to adhere strictly to the unwritten rules of drinking coffee in Italy, milky coffees are only consumed in the morning.

If it is after 11 am, stick to the one-worded order, caffè. Before 11 am, be daring and order up a frothy variety if it suits you. After a few successful counter encounters, you may want to branch out and try one of these other iterations of espresso:

  • Ristretto: a little bit of water added to a caffe
  • Lungo: a bit more water added to coffee
  • Macchiato: coffee with a splash of milk
  • Corretto: coffee with a shot of grappa
  • Schiumato: espresso capped with a dollop of hot milk foam and
  • Granita: a Sicilian recipe made with coffee and ice topped with whipped cream. A popular drink in summer.

Master these choices and you will be sipping like a pro!

Coffee is Sipped at the Bar

Coffee is meant to be sipped and savored at the local bar. Most Italians order right at the counter, which provides an opportunity to socialize, gossip, and discuss football before beginning their day.
If you ask for a coffee to go, be prepared for some glares as you will have violated the most important cardinal rule. So, hang out at the counter and maybe you’ll even pick up a few Italian words. You will certainly be warmly welcomed.

Coffee is Sipped at the Bar

Heading to Italy?

If you are planning to visit Italy to partake in the rich culture, tastes, and sights found in the cafes and well beyond, we can help. From finding the perfect luxury villa for your friends and family to organizing a custom itinerary , we are the partner every discerning traveler needs.

While there, test your Italian style coffee techniques at these favorite spots:

  • Rome – If you are searching for the ultimate espresso, head to Café Eustachio in the Eternal City. Located behind the Patheon, it has been an institution for Romans since 1938. The thick foam that tops each coffee is made by a secret technique. So secret that the baristas’ hands are hidden by a barrier. The espresso is exceptional. Don’t miss the experience. Piazza di San Eustachio, 82
  • Florence – With three locations across the city, Ditta Artigianaleis Italy’s original specialty coffee company. Coffee beans are sourced worldwide and roasted in Tuscany and brewed daily in Firenze. Here you can order your cappuccino with almond milk, flat whites, or coffee made using AeroPress or V60 filtering techniques. The menu items are worthy too. Via dello Sprone, 5n(near the Ponte Vecchio), Via dei Neri, 30/32 R (near the duomo) and Via dei Carducci 2R (largest location in the Sant’Ambrogio neighborhood).
  • Venice – Opened in 1720, Café Florian is the oldest café in the world. Sip your coffee in Baroque splendor under the arches in San Marco’s Square. The café is pictured below. Piazza San Marco 57.
  • Milan – Owned by Prada, the Italian iconic fashion powerhouse, Marchesi 1824 embodies Milanese style since its opening in 1824. The café is seeped in history and is faithful to traditions and artisanal products. Specialties are prepared by hand using high quality ingredients. Via Monte Napoleone, 9.
  • Naples – In the center of the city, Café Gambrinus is a landmark 19th-century coffee house with an elegant interior – a contrast to the laundry strewn across the neighboring narrow streets. In a bygone era, this café was a meeting point for intellectuals, politicians and businessmen. Via Chiaia, 1 and Piazza Trieste e Trento, 42.
  •  Noto – For the best view of the Baroque cathedral and the best cannoli in Italy, Caffe Sicilia is a must stop. Opened in 1892, Carlo and Corrado Assenza are the fourth generation in their family to run this institution. Corrado incorporates his chemistry and biology background to create awe-inspiring flavors to its pastries which are perfectly paired with a café! Corso Vittorio Emanuele, 125.

Café Florian in Venice

Filed Under: Italy, Travel

Italy’s Piedmont Region is the New Tuscany

March 8, 2022 by Luxury Italian Tours Leave a Comment

Nestled alongside the borders of France and Switzerland and surrounded on three sides by the Alpes, lies Piemonte or the Piedmont region of Italy. Piemonte is a rising star for travelers looking to explore something different. There are endless reasons to consider Piemonte for your next Italian adventure. It is a gastronomic paradise for food and wine lovers too. Let us open your mind to the delights that await you in this magical region of northwestern Italy.

Since the Renaissance period, artists have been bewitched by the dazzling landscape of Tuscany. Piemonte is every bit as alluring. In every direction, as far as your eyes can see, you will take in hills covered with vineyards, medieval castles and towers, ancient farmhouses, Romanesque churches seamlessly integrated into the natural surroundings. 

Stellar Wines 

Stellar-Wines

Named a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Langhe area has vineyards that produce Italy’s best-known tannic red wines: Barolo and Barbaresco, from Nebbiolo grapes. Naturally the wines of Piemonte are a significant draw to this region of Italy. Celebrated alongside Tuscany as one of the top wine regions in all of Italy, Piemonte also gives wine lovers the opportunity to taste types of grapes not found anywhere else.

The region’s weather experiences varied temperatures because it is situated between the icy Alps and the warm Mediterranean sea. This push and pull results in dense fog on a daily basis that burns off throughout the day. The land above the fog gets more sun, leading to healthy, happy grapes that produce light, acidic wines.

The most recognizable wines coming out of Piemonte are Barolo, known as the “king” of wines, and Barbaresco, which is dubbed the “queen” for its softer tannin profile. The Barolo DOCG vineyards are found only on the hills facing south. They are brick red in color, but deliver different tastes based on the soil type in which the grapes were grown, which are either limestone, clay or sandstone. 

Barbaresco vineyards receive DOCG status only along the best southward facing slopes. Although the soils range from limestone to sandstone, the resulting wines are typically more approachable than Barolos. 

Dedicate two separate days to explore each of these wine areas. And, if you are a true wine lover, also explore the Roero area, home to the Arneis grape which produces a light floral white wine and Monferrato, where the Barbera grape dominates. Be sure to sample other indigenous red varieties such as Dolcetto, Grignolino and Ruchè. Luxury Italian Tours can book tastings, treks and bike rides through the vineyards. 

Prized Whites Truffles

Prized-Whites-Truffles

One of the main reasons travelers embark on an Italian tour is to taste the food, which rarely disappoints even the most discerning of palates. The Piemonte region is no exception. For as long as people have debated such topics, Piedmont is one of two contenders for the unofficial title of Italy’s absolute best region for food. (The other is Emilia-Romagna.) Its fertile calcareous soil and unique geography of this region produces some of the world’s best food delicacies such as risotto rice, porcini mushrooms, toma and gorgonzola cheese, hazelnuts and the famous white truffle of Alba. The Slow Food movement, which preserves Italian and international local food traditions, was birthed in the region in the town of Bra.

Foodies from around the globe come to taste the world’s highest prized white truffle, making it a worldwide standout and major draw to the region. Visitors flock to the International Alba White Truffle Fair which occurs annually in the fall. The precious mushroom can fetch several thousand euros per kilo. Luxury Italian Tours can arrange a truffle hunt for you alongside a personal experienced truffle hunter (or trifulau in Piedmontese dialect) and his hound to search for these treasures in the forest. Unearth one or two and enjoy these fragrant shavings of mushroom on your pasta. 

Whatever your palate prefers, your taste buds will roll into a journey full of flavor and excitement in the region. There are so many varied dining options from numerous first-rate establishments, ranging from humble trattorie and osterie, where you can eat very well for moderate pricing, all the way up to Michelin-starred restaurants, that are among the critically acclaimed in the world.  

Castles, Roman Ruins, and Museums

Castles-Roman-Ruins-Museums

Travelers looking to take in culture and history and find themselves dazzled by ancient architecture will be delighted by all that Piemonte has to offer. The landscape is positively covered in castles, many of which are open to tourists. 

This region enjoys a rich Roman history as well and offers visitors plentiful opportunities to visit well preserved and impressive Roman ruins. The triumphal Arch of Augustus, built in the 1st century BC, is highly regarded as the most extraordinary of all. The Acqui Terme is a very well-preserved Roman site dating back to imperial times. Visitors can also explore an amphitheater which would have accommodated 100,000 spectators from the 1st century. 

The Piemonte region is also home to the oldest Egyptian museum in the entire world. Located in Turin, the region’s capital and the former capital of all of Italy, it is considered second only to Cairo’s national museum in terms of quantity and quality of the exhibits. It is filled with relics and artifacts uncovered by the Italian Archeological Mission from 1900-1935. While in Turin, coffee and chocolate is another must for all visitors. Luxury Italian Tours will share its favorite spots in your itinerary. 

These are just a few of the very compelling reasons you should consider the Piemonte when planning your next Italian adventure. Luxury Italian Tours is ready to plan an exquisite itinerary to Piemonte, with the expertise and refined taste you have come to expect. Luxury Italian Villas has several options for accommodations in the countryside or in the town center. You will love discovering this region!

Filed Under: Italy, Travel

Why Etna Needs to Be on Your Sicilian Tour Itinerary

February 11, 2022 by Luxury Italian Tours Leave a Comment

Whether you are a lover of wine, an Italian adventure seeker, or an admirer of lush and beautiful landscapes, the Etna region of Sicily has so much wonder to offer. The region is receiving more notice as a travel destination due to the critical acclaim that is being lavished on the wines of Etna.

Read on to learn a bit about what makes this area and its wines so special and how you can make sure Etna gets a spot on your Italian tour itinerary.

The Unique Qualities of the Territory of Etna

The region gets its name from the highest active volcano in all of Europe, Mount Etna. Often referred to as “an island within the island,” Etna’s volcano is at the heart of what makes this territory so radically different from the rest of Sicily.

Myth tells us that buried deep below Mount Etna lives giant Enceladus, who was eternally trapped there by his arch-rival, Greek Goddess Athena. The volcano’s eruptions and emissions are said to be the inflamed breath of the giant, escaping in puffs and blasts.

Though the myth adds to the sense of magic and lore of the region, the truth is just as fascinating. The volcano’s ash, lava, and steam are responsible for creating an entirely distinct climate in the area as well as unique and varied soil composition.

From day to night, temperatures swing widely. The volcanic soil can vary from sandy to pebbly, ashy to gravelly. On top of that, the slope itself, ascending from the volcano, makes wine growing in the territory difficult and tiresome.

But oh, how the wines have flourished for centuries!

Wine historians date production in the Etna territory back to the 8th century BC. There are active vineyards in the designated territory that have been continuously producing wine for well over one hundred years using methods no longer seen elsewhere.

All of this combines for a delightfully different and delicious result in the wines of the Etna DOC.

All About the Grapes of Etna

There are four different vines that comprise the Etna DOC wines. There are two native varieties, Nerello Mascalese and Carricante. Additionally, Narello Cappuccio is used for reds, rosés, and sparkling wines and Catarratto is used to produce whites.

Nerello Mascalese is grown in the greatest abundance of the region’s varieties. It is made to produce wines that are ruby red with a fruity aroma. The wines are well balanced with a nice level of astringency.

Carricante is a white grape from ancient times that has always been cultivated on Mount Etna’s slopes. The resulting wines have scents that are refined and delicate to the senses. Citrus comes through intensely in the deeply yellow wines produced from it.

Narello Cappuccio are responsible for the production of wines that are ruby red in color with just a hint of purple. The medium structure and freshness coupled with subtle floral hints make for a delightful combination.

Catarratto is a white grape of great vigor and bold character. It is the least cultivated wine of the region but is still used in the production of Etna Bianco, a white blend brimming with character and depth.

Day Trip to Etna while Visiting Sicily

Now that your taste buds and adventurous spirit have been sufficiently enticed, it’s time to discover how easy it is to access this region and fully sate your appetite.

The fairytale town of Taormina is about an hour away so a break from the beach will have you on the slopes sipping a cool crisp Carricante or a fruity NerelloMascalese. Catania is a major metropolitan area on the island of Sicily and home to the main airport. Etna is just 35 km (22 miles) away from Catania and reached by car in one hour. This makes Etna an ideal destination for a day trip.

Wine aficionados and novices alike will find time in Etna well worth the trip. The wine tastings alone are reason enough to book a tour but there is more on offer when popping over to this part of Sicily.

Luxury Italian Tours has a variety of jeep tours to take in the sights and surroundings. Hikers can opt to book a guided trek on the volcano itself! And when the day’s adventures are done, delicious local wine will be ready to savor.

Instead of stocking up on magnets and t-shirt, visitors to the region’s vineyards opt for souvenirs of the bottled variety, which wineries are happy to pack up securely and ship home to enjoy later.

Make Etna a Part of Your Luxury Italian Tour

Discerning travelers who want to fully immerse themselves in the Sicilian way of life can find what they are looking for with Luxury Italian Villas. Clients can choose from a vast array of hand-selected villas, many of which are nestled within vineyards themselves. Dreamy does not quite cover it.

Contact us today to discuss how we can make your Italian tour a trip for the record books.

Filed Under: Travel

What To Expect When Honeymooning In Italy

February 19, 2020 by Luxury Italian Tours Leave a Comment

An Italian Honeymoon

The very phrase conjures images of romantic dinners in hidden piazze or overlooking the Mediterranean sea, charming gondola rides in the intimate canals of Venice and walks through Tuscan vineyards. Whether you are strolling along the ancient streets of Rome, savoring the scenic Amalfi Coast, basking on the sand on a secluded beach in Sardinia or sailing to the diverse Aeolian Islands in Sicily, Italy is a dream destination for many honeymooners.

When you’re honeymooning in Italy, you can expect to find romance and charm around every corner, whether you opt for a historic tour of the Roman ruins or a relaxing, pampered vacation on the shores of the Mediterranean while sipping prosecco. Everywhere you turn, it seems like Italy was simply created to be the perfect destination for newlyweds on their honeymoon.

As a newlywed couple, romantic dinners are a must. Now is the time to enjoy each other’s company and celebrate the lives you have ahead of you. In Italy, you can expect to find simple, authentic cuisine no matter where you are traveling. Relax over a pasta dish, served with locally crafted wine, or visit a world-class restaurant and dress to the nines for the evening. On your Italian honeymoon, you can expect to indulge.

During your Italian Honeymoon

You can expect accommodations that are perfect for a honeymooning couple. From 5-star hotels to quaint countryside villas, Luxury Italian Honeymoons can find and book just the right spot for you to use as your home base during your travels. Perhaps you’ll opt for a mix – a quaint farmhouse or a medieval castle in Tuscany overlooking the magical rolling hills, but a 5-star hotel overlooking the sea when you’ve made your way to Capri. In Italy, you can expect the unexpected, and know that you have options available to craft the honeymoon you’ve always wanted.

Our bespoke honeymoons will balance relaxation, unique activities, culture, food and wine. You should expect never to be bored. Italy has centuries of art and architecture to explore, beaches for sunbathing and relaxing, stores and boutiques for shopping, piazzas for people-watching, vineyards for strolling and sipping…the list goes on. On your Italian honeymoon, you should expect to be dazzled.

Check Out Luxury Italian Honeymoons!

With an Italian honeymoon designed just for you by Luxury Italian Honeymoons, you can expect a honeymoon that is your dream vacation. Check out our sister site: www.luxuryitalianhoneymoons.com

Filed Under: Honeymoons

Visiting The Luxurious and Legendary Amalfi Coast

January 28, 2020 by Luxury Italian Tours Leave a Comment

On the Amalfi Coast,

you can immerse yourself in the Italian vacation of your dreams. Amid the vistas of cliffside villages including Positano, Amalfi and Ravello, you can bask in the sun alongside the Mediterranean, sipping on the locally-made limoncello. You can rest easy knowing that you are in one of the most iconic vacation locales in the world. The Amalfi Coast is a place to explore, a place to relax, a place to indulge.

Where to begin

Start your visit to the Amalfi Coast by flying into Naples International Airport. As you travel to your accommodations, be sure to take in the scenery that has made the Amalfi Coast such a famed region of Europe.

Among the pleasures of visiting the Amalfi Coast is staying at one of the many fine hotels that line the beaches, providing you limitless access to the shore and hours of relaxation. The iconic Hotel Santa Caterina has over a century of history and has hosted legendary actors such as Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton and Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt. It remains a glamorous and luxurious hideaway today. At Luxury Italian Tours, we can help you find accommodations that meet your vacation dreams – whether a beachside hotel or the privacy of a villa from the collection offered by Luxury Italian Villas.

When visiting the Amalfi Coast, you can explore one town, or travel around. Positano is an iconic cliffside village; a place to explore history, art, and natural beauty. Here, you can spend time on the beach, then take a boat trip or go on a hike to other coastal villages. The Path of Gods offers spectacular scenery along paths that wind the coast and take you through lesser-known but no less beautiful villages.

Sorrento, another iconic cliffside town, offers sweeping views of the Bay of Naples and the opportunity for enjoying the charm of a historic Italian Piazza. Explore the 14th- Century Chiesa di San Francesco, then explore the work of local craftspeople as you wander the village. Perhaps the most notable feature of Sorrento is the lemons which are often mistaken for small grapefruits. Book lunch at a lemon farm and savor lemon-flavored pasta drizzled with lemon-spiked extra virgin olive oil and a lemon-flavored dessert. Or, learn the tricks to making creamy mozzarella cheese and pizza, one of the region’s most famous specialties.

Offshore,

you’ll find the islands of Capri and Ischia. Glamorous Capri offers opportunities for high-end shopping and perhaps even celebrity sightings. For a truly luxurious, high-end vacation, stay at one of Capri’s upscale hotels and immerse yourself in the island’s peak Mediterranean lifestyle. Slip into a pair of handmade sandals crafted by Canfora, a favorite of Jackie Kennedy Onassis, or bring home the scents of Capri from the Carthusia perfumery.

For local charm, Ischia is the place to be. A fishing village where locals will welcome you to experience a bit of authentic Italian living, Ischia is a must-stop for any traveler hoping to get intimately acquainted with the local culture. Here you can escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature, in part by indulging in the thermal waters at Negombo Thermal Gardens.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site with beachside glamour, the Amalfi Coast truly has something to offer every traveler. The best time to visit is between mid-May and mid-October. At Luxury Italian Tours, we can help you craft an itinerary for your ideal Amalfi Coast excursion. Contact us to start planning your trip today.

Filed Under: Amalfi Coast, Italy, Travel

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