Boats at Marina Grande embankment in Capri Island in Tyrrhenian sea, Italy
Boats at Marina Grande embankment in Capri Island in Tyrrhenian sea, Italy

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Live like a Citalian

Citalia Blog

Are you ready to discover the real Italy? Take a look at our blog articles below and be inspired by all of the wonderful places and hidden gems that make up this beautiful country. Give our Italy Experts a call today and start turning those dreams into a reality. Andiamo!

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Hidden Italy: Aeolian Islands
The Aeolian Islands are a true gem off the coast of Sicily. With plenty to see and do, your holiday here will be unforgettable.
View of Turin city center during summer day-Turin,Italy,Europe
Tuneful Turin
Eurovision fans unite! With the contest taking place in the UK last week, we take a look at last year’s hosts, Turin and showcase the music of the city.
Beautiful view of traditional Gondolas on famous Canal Grande with historic Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute in the background in romantic golden evening light at sunset in Venice, Italy
Top 5 Things to Do in Venice
Venice is a unique city with lots to offer those who travel there. Come with us as we take a look at the top 5 things to do in Venice.
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Hidden Italy: Palermo
Capital of Sicily, Palermo is a true melting pot of cultures. Have a look at some of our favourite hidden gems.
Verona, Italy. Night picture of the famous Arena
Italy's Great Theatres
Enjoy a night at one of Italy’s Great Theatres and be in awe at the opera. A particular highlight is the 100th anniversary of the Verona Opera Festival!
Aerial cityscape view from the tower on Bologna old town center with Maggiore square in Italy
Hidden Italy: Bologna
Bologna, the gastronomic heart of Italy, offers plenty of delicious dishes as well as beautiful architecture and fascinating history.
Lonely white wine glass in distance from people, past famous bridge of Florence, Italy. Empty european city.
The Wine Windows of Florence
Enjoy a special experience in Florence, the Beating Heart of Tuscany, with a visit to a wine window for a glass.
Rich variety of chocolates, candies and biscuits with a gift box in display window of italian pastry shop at the street of Florence city
A Chocolate Lover’s Guide to Italy
If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll love our chocolate lover’s guide to Italy. Andiamo! 
Morning view of Amalfi cityscape on coast line of mediterranean sea, Italy
Italy Inspiration: 6 Great Multi-Centre Ideas
Combining destinations allows you to discover more of the real Italy in one trip. Allow us to inspire you with our top 6 multicentre ideas.
ocean with train alongside the coast Taormina Sicily Italy September 2016
Hop on Board: From Rome to Sicily by Train
Slow down with a leisurely journey through southern Italy’s historic railways. Choo choo!
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Hidden Italy: Naples
A city filled with history and hidden gems, Naples should be on your list of places to visit in Italy.
Positano, amalfi, Italy
Gennaro Contaldo: My Childhood on the Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast really is spectacular. Have a read of our Brand Ambassador, Gennaro Contaldo’s love for this captivating coastline.
Panoramic view of the resort town of Lazise on Lake Garda, north of Italy. Aerial photography with drone.
The Glittering Great Lakes of Italy
Ever wondered what Italy's great lakes are like to visit? Citalia’s very own Jitender Sokhy shares his experience travelling around Lake Como and Lake Garda.
The famous wineyard and beautiful riviera of Cinque Terre,Manarola town,Italy,Europe
Locations of Love
Italy is such a romantic country with special memories. Take a look at our locations of love and enjoy la dolce vita.
Aerial view of Verona historical city centre Veronetta, medieval buildings with red tiled roofs, cypress trees, blue sky background, Veneto Region, Italy. Verona cityscape, panoramic view.
Hidden Italy: Verona
Verona is a beautiful city in the north of Italy, famous for the world class Verona Opera Festival which will be celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2023. 
Verona, Italy. Night picture of the famous Arena
Citalia’s Guide to Opera in Italy
Italian operas are one of life’s greatest pleasures, take a look at our comprehensive guide to the opera in Italy. 
Christmas Manger scene with figurines including Jesus, Mary, Joseph, sheep and magi.
How to Celebrate Christmas like an Italian
Christmas is a time for gathering with loved ones and feasting on a delicious meal. Here’s how to celebrate Christmas like an Italian.
New Years Fireworks in Florence
The best places to spend New Year in Italy
As we approach the end of another year, we take a look at the best places to spend New Year in Italy. 
The Po river aerial panoramic view in the centre of Turin city, Piedmont region of Italy
Hidden Italy: Turin
There’s lots to do in Turin, Italy’s fourth largest city. With a stunning backdrop of the Italian Alps, the views are incredible.
View of Grand Canal and Basilica Santa Maria della Salute in Venice
Italian City Guide: Venice
Transport yourself to another world with a trip to the iconic city of Venice. A holiday to Venice offers you the delights of historical buildings, majestic waterways and romantic ambience. If you are thinking of visiting the beautiful city, below we have created an ultimate guide to Venice to help you along the way.
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Italian Christmas Traditions
The Christmas season in Italy boasts one of the longest celebrations in the world and is undoubtedly the most delicious type of Christmas you’ll find. Come with us and discover some Italian Christmas traditions! Buon Natale! (Happy Christmas!) 
FLORENCE in Italy with the great dome of the Cathedral called Duomo di Firenze
Festive Florentine Favourite
Delightful Florence, Italy’s city of flowers and lovers, is teeming with history. Why not experience a luxurious and historic stay in one of its landmark locations this winter? 
Glass of rose wine on rustic table. Food and drink background
Perfect Dinner Wine Pairings with Gennaro Contaldo
Looking for the perfect dinner wine to pair with your delicious dish? Our favourite Italian chef Gennaro Contaldo lets you in on some secrets.  
View to Village of Pettenasco at Lake Orta,italian Lake district,Piedmont,Italy
Hidden Italy: Piedmont
A foodie’s paradise, Piedmont has lots to offer – take a look at some of our favourites.
The Gaiola Island, one of the minor islands of Naples, a coastal scenery close to the Underwater Park of Gaiola, a protected marine area. Some boys take a swim by the rocks.
The Cursed Island of Gaiola
The Cursed Island of Gaiola has led to the ill-fate of so many, are you brave enough to explore?
Aerial cityscape view from the tower on Bologna old town center with Maggiore square in Italy
5 Italian Cities to Fall in Love with this November
Fall in love with an Italian city this November. It’s hard to choose, but here’s a list of five of the best. Take your pick… 
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Hidden Italy: Umbria
A hidden gem, Umbria is Italy's 'green heart' and is filled with lots of secrets for you to discover.
The beautiful village of Santa Maria di Castellabate, Cilento, Campania, southern Italy.
Hidden Italy: Cilento
One of Italy's best kept secrets, Cilento is the perfect choice for your next holiday to Italy. Not far from Naples, it is just waiting to be discovered.
cityscape and panoramic view of old bridge with warm sunset sky water reflections and dome of St. Peters cathedral church with old buildings and architecture in Rome, Italy
Italian City Guide: Rome
Rome still captivates all that visit. With its hundreds of historic sights around every corner, there is no wonder why they call it the Eternal City. Rome's culture, food and people make it such a special city, and we have put together a guide to our favourite things to see, eat and where to stay to make planning your city break that little bit easier. 
The picturesque town of Riva del Garda on Lake Garda. Province of Trento, Trentino Alto Adige, Italy.
Citalia's guide to Lake Garda
Lake Garda is considered to be the most beautiful Italian lake, and it's easy to see why. Every corner you turn you are awe-struck by stunning scenery, manicured gardens and picture-perfect, peaceful towns. With so much to explore, it can be hard to know where to start. That's why we have put together a guide to our favourite things about Lake Garda...
Taormina is a city on the island of Sicily, Italy. Mount Etna over Taormina cityscape, Messina, Sicily. View of Taormina located in Metropolitan City of Messina, on east coast of Sicily island, Italy.
Citalia's guide to Sicily
As one of Italy's most diverse islands, Sicily is the perfect trip away. From the historic cities to the inviting crystal-clear waters, there is plenty of choice to make the most out of your holiday. To help you get started, below is a guide to our favourite things in Sicily...
Red wine bottle and wine glass on wodden barrel. Beautiful Tuscany background
What could be better than Italy in October?
Psst! Not many people know this, but autumn is gorgeous in Italy. 

In fact, it's possibly the best time to go. Why? Because the crowds have gone home, along with the intense heat. Yet it's still warm enough to sunbathe. 
View of the street in Sorrento, Italy. Sorrento beautiful way to the sea between the rock
Citalia's guide to Sorrento
If you are looking for picture-perfect postcard Italy, then you've found it. Sorrento is one of the most beautiful, quintessential towns in Italy and with so much to explore both in the town itself and nearby it is the perfect base for an authentic Italian escape. 
Beautiful cityscape skyline of Firenze (Florence), Italy, with the bridges over the river Arno
Italian City Guide: Florence
If you are planning a city escape to a beautiful Italian city this year, how about Florence? 
Home made limoncello served in stemmed glasses. Summer still life
Love for Limoncello
The fresh lemons of the Amalfi Coast create the most delicious summer spirit - quite literally! Read this zesty blog and get intoxicated by the citrus tang of sweet limoncello. 
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Venture into Verona with Michael
Looking to capture some of Verona’s top spots? Follow along in Michael’s footsteps as he recommends some of his favourite historic and cultural landmarks in fair Verona.
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Ellie's Adventures: A Sicilian Road Trip

In May 2022, our Marketing Executive Ellie Harding went on her latest Italian adventure, this time was a road trip around the sensational island of Sicily. Flying into Catania–Fontanarossa Airport and departing from Palermo Airport after a week of exploring. Ellie shares Sicily’s secrets with us as well as the benefits of hiring a car for your next Italian escape.
Beautiful view of traditional Gondolas on famous Canal Grande with historic Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute in the background in romantic golden evening light at sunset in Venice, Italy
Michael's tips for getting around Venice
If you’re looking for tips on the best way to get around Venice, look no further! Our very own Commercial Executive Michael, has pulled together the best forms of travel to suit your budget and preferences.
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Michael's tips for culture enthusiasts in Venice
With an abundance of museums, galleries and cathedrals, Venice is the ideal spot to enjoy the centuries of rich culture that Italy offers. Follow Michael on his trip around Venice enjoying taking in this art lovers dream.
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Michaels Adventures: Exploring Venice
Our very own Commercial Executive Michael, visited this beautiful famous Italian city last month whilst stopping over at a few of our hotel partners to say hello. 
Digital fresco. Venicie
Exploring Italy In May
Thanks to the bright sunny days, mild temperatures and quietness that May offers, it's widely considered one of the best times of the year to visit and explore Italy. So if you're thinking about a last minute getaway, Italy is the perfect option.
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Secrets of Italy's Streets
There are several major cities in Italy, yet each one has a distinct character that’s worth exploring in its own right.
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Ellie’s Adventures: Venice to Verona by Rail
In November 2021 our Marketing Executive Ellie Harding went on her own Italian cross-country rail adventure to Venice, and Verona, flying into Venice Marco Polo Airport and departing from Malpensa Airport, Milan. Capturing moments along the way, Ellie shares her trip with us.
A man holding mushrooms black truffles in front of a Cocker Spaniel dogs. Dogs in a car
A Nose For Italian Truffles
Venture into the undergrowth with Citalia’s field guide to truffle hunting in Italy. November is considered the ultimate month for a truffle-themed holiday, as this is when you’ll find the best truffles and most of the truffle fairs and sagre (food festivals).
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Exploring Authentic Tuscany
Explore the beauty of Tuscany with Marie Kidd our Tuscany expert.
empty wooden table on the background of vines, tuscan landscape at sunrise
The Beauty Of Italian Culture
If you’re a culture vulture, Italy is filled to the brim and ready to be explored. 
Lake Garda, Italy
James Bond in Italy: 007's Most Scenic Settings
Italy has played a starring role in the iconic James Bond films since the 1970s, and the forthcoming 2021 film, No Time To Die, is no different. Here’s our round up of 007's most scenic settings in Italy.

Call us today to speak to one of our Italy Experts for further travel advice, hotel recommendations or to begin planning your next Italian holiday.

01293 765055 Or Make an enquiry
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