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Travel

Where Italians Actually Go on Holiday

Every August, Italy changes. Cities like Florence and Rome empty out, shop shutters close, and even the barista who made your morning espresso vanishes.
Where do we go? We disappear — but not to the places tourists expect.
We don’t dream of Venice or the Amalfi Coast. We dream of our places. The ones we’ve been going to since we were kids. Places that smell like grilled fish and sunscreen, where the same families return to the same apartments every single year.

For some, it’s Puglia — the heel of Italy, where the towns are white as sugar cubes and the sea glows like liquid glass. We set up our umbrellas at Torre dell’Orso, Gallipoli, Polignano a Mare, or Vieste, and we stay there until sunset, talking, eating, and doing absolutely nothing.

Others head south to Calabria. Tropea, Capo Vaticano, Scilla, Diamante. Names you might not know, but to us, they taste like sweet red onions, spicy pasta, and watermelon straight from the fridge.

Sardinia? Of course — but not the glossy Costa Smeralda you see on Instagram. We go where the ferries land: San Teodoro, Cala Gonone, Santa Teresa di Gallura, La Maddalena, and quiet coves you reach by foot or rowboat.

And not everyone chases the sea. Many of us flee the heat for the mountains. We head to the Dolomites: Ortisei, Corvara, Canazei, Madonna di Campiglio, San Candido. Up there, you trade the beach for cool air, alpine hikes, polenta, and wool sweaters in August.

Others escape to lakes: Lago di Bolsena, Lago di Bracciano, Lago d’Iseo, or Lago di Scanno in Abruzzo — places where you can swim without salt, eat by the water, and hear only Italian.

Families from Bologna and Florence still love the Tuscan coast — Castiglione della Pescaia, Marina di Grosseto, Follonica, Cecina, Baratti. The umbrellas are reserved, the beach toys are inherited, and everyone knows everyone.

In Liguria, we go to Lerici, Sestri Levante, Finale Ligure, Varigotti — still Italian, still old-school, with focaccia in your bag and sand in your shoes.

And yes, in Emilia-Romagna, some still swear by Rimini, Cesenatico, and Milano Marittima — loud, crowded, chaotic, but full of family memories and piadine eaten with sandy hands.
Italian vacations are not minimalist. We arrive at the beach with half the house: umbrellas, chairs, coolers, espresso makers, and sometimes even nonna. We build little kingdoms on the sand, always next to the same families we’ve been “neighbors” with every summer for decades.

This is what vacation means to us. Not rushing, not seeing “everything,” but returning to the same places, the same food, the same rituals — because they feel like home.
So if you ever find yourself on an Italian beach, surrounded by three generations sharing pasta from a tupperware and arguing about who forgot the cheese?
Congratulations.
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​Travel/Italy Apulia
a-drones-eye-view-of-coastal-splendor

​Italy has several coastal areas that enjoy mild to warm weather year-round, especially in the southern parts of the country and on its islands. Here are some of the warmest coastal regions:
🌞 Warm Coastal Areas in Italy Year-Round

1. Sicily
   
   • Cities: Palermo, Catania, Siracusa, Trapani
   • Climate: Mediterranean with hot summers and mild winters. Coastal areas rarely see temperatures below 10°C (50°F) in winter.
   • Highlights: Beaches, ancient ruins, vibrant food culture.
2. Calabria
   
   • Cities: Reggio Calabria, Tropea, Scilla
   • Climate: Very warm, especially along the Tyrrhenian and Ionian coasts. Winters are short and mild.
   • Highlights: Crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and less touristy than other regions.
3. Sardinia (Southern Coast)
   
   • Cities: Cagliari, Villasimius, Chia
   • Climate: Warm and dry, especially in the south. Winters are mild and sunny.
   • Highlights: White sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a relaxed pace of life.
4. Campania (Southern Coast)
   
   • Cities: Naples, Sorrento, Amalfi, Salerno
   • Climate: Mild winters and hot summers. Coastal breezes keep it pleasant.
   • Highlights: Amalfi Coast, historic sites like Pompeii, and world-famous cuisine.
5. Puglia (Apulia)
   
   • Cities: Bari, Brindisi, Lecce, Otranto
   • Climate: Warm and dry, with long summers and mild winters.
   • Highlights: Stunning Adriatic and Ionian coastlines, baroque towns, and olive groves.

Would you like help comparing these areas for travel, retirement, or something else?

​Culture

Italy is renowned for its vibrant cultural events that showcase its rich history, traditions, and regional diversity. Here are some key cultural events you might find fascinating:

1. Carnival of Venice: This world-famous festival features elaborate masks and costumes, transforming Venice into a magical place. It takes place in the weeks leading up to Lent[1].
   
2. Palio di Siena: Held twice a year in Siena, this historic horse race dates back to the 17th century. It's a thrilling event where different city districts (contrade) compete fiercely[1].
   
3. Battle of the Oranges: Taking place in Ivrea, this unique festival involves a massive orange-throwing battle, reenacting a historic rebellion[1].
   
4. Umbria Jazz Festival: One of the most important jazz festivals in the world, held in Perugia. It attracts top international artists and jazz enthusiasts[1].
   
5. La Quintana in Ascoli Piceno: A medieval jousting tournament that brings history to life with knights in armor competing in a picturesque setting[2].
   
6. Regatta of the Ancient Maritime Republics: This event features a historic boat race between the ancient maritime republics of Amalfi, Genoa, Pisa, and Venice[2].
   
7. Festa della Madonna Bruna in Matera: A religious festival with a spectacular procession and fireworks, celebrating the Madonna Bruna[2].
   

These events offer a glimpse into Italy's rich cultural tapestry and are a great way to experience the country's traditions and community spirit.

​Have you ever attended any of these festivals?

References
[1] Italy’s Famous Festivals and Events: A Cultural Guide
[2] Cultural Events in Italy: A Delightful Guide for Enthusiasts
[3] 20 Key Historical Events in Italy: Significance & Descriptions
[4] 15 Most Famous Historical events that happened in Italy

Here are some of the recent winners of Miss Italia and the regions they represented:

• 2024: Francesca Tizzano from Campania
• 2023: Martina Sambucini from Lazio
• 2022: Zeudi Di Palma from Campania
• 2021: Gaia Sabbatini from Abruzzo
• 2020: Marta Murru from Liguria

Miss Italia has a rich history, with winners often going on to successful careers in entertainment and modeling[1][2].
References
[1] Miss Italia - Wikipedia
[2] Miss Italia Hall of Fame and Past Winners | Angelopedia

​Italy has a rich tradition of protecting its authentic foods and cheeses through various designations. Here are some of the key designations you might come across:
​

1. Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) or DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta): This designation ensures that products are locally grown and produced. Examples include Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, and Mozzarella di Bufala Campana[1].
2. Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) or IGP (Indicazione Geografica Protetta):
   

           This designation is for products that have a specific quality, reputation, or other                     characteristics attributable to their geographical origin. Examples include Balsamic               Vinegar of Modena and Speck Alto Adige[1].

1. Traditional Speciality Guaranteed (TSG) or STG (Specialità Tradizionale Garantita): This designation highlights traditional character, either in the composition or means of production. Examples include Pizza Napoletana and Mozzarella[1].

These designations help protect the authenticity and quality of Italian foods, ensuring that you get the genuine product. If you're ever in doubt, look for these labels on the packaging!

References
[1] List of Italian food and drink products with protected status

Italy is renowned for its high-quality food products, and several of its exports are highly sought after worldwide. Some of the largest food exports from Italy include:

1. Wine: Italy is one of the world's top wine producers and exporters, with famous varieties like Chianti, Prosecco, and Barolo[1].
2. Pasta: Italian pasta, such as spaghetti and penne, is a staple in many households globally[1].
3. Cheese: Italy exports a wide range of cheeses, including Parmigiano Reggiano, Mozzarella, and Gorgonzola[1].
4. Olive Oil: Italian olive oil is prized for its quality and flavor, making it a significant export product[1].
5. Processed Tomatoes: Products like canned tomatoes and tomato sauces are also major exports[1].
6. Apples: Italy is a leading exporter of apples, particularly from the Trentino-Alto Adige region[1].

​

These products are celebrated for their quality and authenticity, contributing to Italy's reputation in the global food market.

References
[1] Imports and exports in Italy - statistics & facts | Statista

​Join Association

Authentic Designations

Several picturesque villages across Italy are offering up to $30,000 to attract new residents. This initiative aims to revitalize these communities by bringing in fresh energy and investment. Here are some of the villages participating in this program:

1. Calabria Mountain Villages - Known for their stunning mountain landscapes and serene atmosphere.
2. Emilia Romagna - Famous for its colorful houses and lush greenery.
3. Civita - A charming hilltop village with breathtaking views and historic architecture.

These villages offer a unique opportunity to experience Italian culture in a tranquil setting while receiving financial incentives to help with relocation costs, property purchases, or starting a business[1][2].

​Would you consider moving to one of these beautiful Italian villages?

References
[1] 13 Italian Villages that Will Pay You Up To $30,000 To Move There
[2] 13 Italian Villages that Will Pay You Up To $30,000 To Move There