Destinations

12 Oct The best time to visit Puglia: Discover the perfect seasons for travel

Posted at 14:38h in Destinations, Travel Tips by Italian Tours

The best time to visit Puglia: a seasonal guide for travellers

Planning a trip to Puglia and wondering when is the best time to visit Puglia? While this stunning region in southern Italy has something to offer year-round, the shoulder seasons, including spring and autumn, are often considered the most pleasant. With fewer tourists, comfortable weather, and vibrant local festivals, visiting Puglia during these times allows you to fully experience its natural beauty and rich culture.

Springtime Bliss: April and May

Spring in Puglia is nothing short of magical. April sees the landscape come to life with blooming wildflowers and lush greenery. The weather during this month is mild, with average temperatures between 15°C and 20°C, although you’ll notice the temperatures start to rise towards the end of April. This makes it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing, allowing you to wander through ancient olive groves, explore charming towns, and enjoy the local cuisine without the sweltering heat.

May is particularly delightful, as the temperatures rise slightly to a comfortable range of 18°C to 24°C. The days are longer, and the sea begins to warm up, inviting you for a refreshing dip. It’s also an ideal time for food lovers, as local markets overflow with fresh produce, and you can indulge in seasonal delicacies like artichokes, broad beans, and strawberries.

Summertime Heat: Late June to August

While Puglia is undoubtedly beautiful in the summer, it’s worth noting that the temperatures can soar during late June, July, and August, often exceeding 30°C. If your idea of a perfect holiday involves lounging by the sea or a pool, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the slow pace of life, then this might be the season for you. The coastal towns are vibrant, the beaches are buzzing, and there’s no shortage of festivals and events. However, if you prefer a more active holiday, the intense heat can be a bit overwhelming.

Autumn’s Charm: September and October

As summer transitions into autumn, Puglia reveals another side of its charm. September offers a beautiful balance of warm temperatures, averaging between 20°C and 27°C, and a slight drop in tourist numbers. The sea is still pleasantly warm, perfect for swimming, and the vineyards are in full harvest mode.

October, too, is a great month to visit. The weather remains mild, with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 23°C. The autumnal hues transform the landscape into a picturesque setting, ideal for leisurely strolls and enjoying the region’s natural beauty. The pace is slower, the crowds are thinner, and you can savour the authentic, unhurried Puglia experience.

Quiet Escapes: November to March

Visiting Puglia in the low season, from November to March, offers unique advantages and disadvantages. On the plus side, you’ll experience the region at its most tranquil, with significantly fewer tourists. Additionally, accommodation and travel costs tend to be lower during these months. However, the weather can be pretty chilly and unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C, and some hotels, restaurants and attractions will be closed altogether, particularly in the coastal areas. While not ideal for sunbathing or swimming, the low season can be perfect for those seeking a peaceful, budget-friendly getaway focusing on Puglia’s rich history and cuisine.

Why Choose the Shoulder Seasons?

Travelling during April, May, September, and October not only ensures better weather and fewer tourists but also offers a more authentic and relaxed experience. You can explore Puglia’s rich history, vibrant culture, and exquisite cuisine without the rush and heat of the summer months. Plus, you’ll have more opportunities to interact with locals and enjoy the traditional way of life that makes this region so special.

If you’re thinking of visiting Puglia on an escorted tour, check out our exclusive small group tours to Puglia in the beautiful Italian spring and autumn. We offer personalised itineraries that let you experience the region’s charm at its best, with expert guides and intimate group sizes for a truly immersive journey.

Discover our Puglia tours here.

13 Jun Discover the charm of Villa Lante – a new highlight in our Great Gardens of Italy tour

Posted at 07:12h in Architecture, Destinations, Gardens by Italian Tours

Image by Jeff from Sacromento, CA, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

In 2024, we were thrilled to include the enchanting Villa Lante in our Great Gardens of Italy tour for the first time. Nestled in Bagnaia, near Viterbo, Villa Lante is a masterpiece of Renaissance garden design, celebrated for its remarkable blend of architecture, sculpture, and landscape art.

A Glimpse into History
Villa Lante was conceived in the late 16th century and primarily designed by the renowned architect Giacomo Barozzi da Vignola. Commissioned by Cardinal Gianfrancesco Gambara, the villa and its gardens were intended as a grand statement of the cardinal’s status and taste. After Gambara’s death, his successor, Cardinal Alessandro Montalto, further enhanced the estate, adding his personal touch to the gardens and buildings.

The villa itself comprises two nearly identical small palaces, or casini, known as Gambara and Montalto. These buildings are adorned with frescoes and intricate architectural details that reflect the Renaissance love for classical antiquity and humanist themes.

The Gardens: A Symphony of Water and Art
The gardens of Villa Lante are a testament to the artistry and engineering of the Renaissance period. Designed to delight and surprise, the gardens feature a series of terraces that cascade down a gentle hillside, each level revealing a new marvel of design. Water is a central theme, ingeniously integrated into the landscape through fountains, cascades, and water chains.

At the heart of the garden lies the Quadrato, a perfectly square parterre enclosed by high box hedges. Here, you will find the magnificent Fontana dei Mori, a complex fountain featuring life-sized statues of Moors holding the heraldic symbols of the Montalto family. This fountain is a focal point, surrounded by meticulously sculpted boxwood and ornate stone decorations.

Another highlight is the Fountain of the Lamps, a circular, multi-tiered fountain where water jets mimic the flickering of oil lamps. This playful use of water continues with the Cardinal’s Table, a long stone table with a central water channel designed to keep food and wine cool during outdoor feasts.

The upper terraces of the garden showcase even more water features and grottos, culminating in the Fountain of the Deluge, a dramatic representation of the biblical flood, complete with sculpted river gods and a water chain that symbolises the rejuvenating power of water.

Experience Villa Lante with Us

In 2025, come to Italy and visit Villa Lante, a place where art, nature, and history converge. These visually stunning gardens are not just a feast for the eyes, but also rich with symbolism and historical significance, making your visit a truly immersive experience.

For more details and to secure your spot, visit our website and download the full itinerary of our popular Italian garden tour. Take advantage of this extraordinary journey into Italy’s botanical treasures!

We are in the process of finalising our 2025 tour programme, so keep an eye on our website, as we are constantly adding new tours.

If you’ve been eyeing a particular tour from our 2024 lineup, please send us an email, and we’ll give you the latest updates on our plans for that tour in 2025.

13 Jun Italy’s Quiet Masterpieces: Some lesser known museums in Rome, Milan and Venice

Posted at 07:12h in Architecture, Art, Destinations by Italian Tours

If you’re a lover of history and art or simply curious about these cities’ rich heritage, we’ve assembled a selection of museums that provide a unique glimpse into Italy’s vibrant past. Away from the usual hustle, these spots offer a more tranquil and rewarding visit.

Be sure to add these spots to your trip plan!

Rome

Centrale Montemartini
Address: Via Ostiense, 106, 00154 Roma RM
Located in the Ostiense district, about a 15-minute metro ride from the Colosseum, Centrale Montemartini is a unique fusion of industrial architecture and classical art. Once a power plant, this museum now houses an impressive collection of ancient Roman sculptures, dramatically set against a backdrop of old machinery. It’s a fascinating contrast that brings history to life in a truly unexpected way.

Palazzo Altemps
Address: Piazza di Sant’Apollinare, 46, 00186 Roma RM
Tucked away near Piazza Navona, just a 5-minute stroll from the bustling square, Palazzo Altemps is a Renaissance palace that houses a collection of ancient Roman and Egyptian artifacts. The museum is a quiet oasis where you can admire beautifully preserved sculptures and frescoes in an opulent, historic setting. It’s a perfect stop for those seeking art with a touch of grandeur.

Milan

Poldi Pezzoli Museum
Address: Via Alessandro Manzoni, 12, 20121 Milano MI
Located in the stylish Brera district, just a 5-minute walk from the Teatro alla Scala, the Poldi Pezzoli Museum is an elegant former residence turned museum. It houses an eclectic collection of Renaissance paintings, decorative arts, and armour. This museum offers a quiet, refined atmosphere where you can appreciate art in a beautifully curated setting.

Museum of Science and Technology (Leonardo da Vinci)
Address: Via San Vittore, 21, 20123 Milano MI
Found in the Sant’Ambrogio neighbourhood, about a 10-minute walk from the Last Supper, this museum is a haven for science and history enthusiasts alike. Dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci’s genius, it features models of his inventions and exhibits on space, transport, and energy. It’s a fascinating, educational experience ideal for those wanting to delve deeper into the mind of one of history’s greatest thinkers.

Scuole Grande di San Rocco – Photos by Alexandru Ionescu on Unsplash

Venice

Scuola Grande di San Rocco
Address: San Polo, 3052, 30125 Venezia VE
Situated in the San Polo district, just a 10-minute walk from the Rialto Bridge, the Scuola Grande di San Rocco is a hidden masterpiece. This historic confraternity building is adorned with dramatic works by the Venetian painter Tintoretto. Every inch of this grand hall is covered in art, offering a breathtaking glimpse into Venice’s artistic golden age, away from the usual tourist trail.

Fortuny Gallery
Address: San Marco, 3958, 30124 Venezia VE
Nestled in the heart of the San Marco district, a short walk from La Fenice Opera House, the Fortuny Gallery is a lesser-known gem. Housed in a Gothic palace, the museum showcases the work of Mariano Fortuny, a multi-talented artist and designer. From textiles to lighting design, this museum offers an intriguing look at Fortuny’s innovative contributions to the arts.

Visiting these lesser-known museums allows you to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Rome, Venice, and Milan without the usual crowds. Each of these venues offers not only the opportunity to view extraordinary art and artifacts but also to journey back in time, uncovering narratives that are often missed by the typical tourist path.

We hope these recommendations inspire your next Italian adventure. We’d love to hear about your experience if you visit any of these museums!

MAIN IMAGE from the Centrale Montemartini by Carole Raddato from FRANKFURT, Germany CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

23 Jan Monza – An undiscovered treasure on the doorstep of Milan

Posted at 07:12h in Architecture, Art, Destinations by Italian Tours

Image by James Steakley, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Nestled in the heart of Lombardy, just a short drive from Milan, Monza is a largely undiscovered destination steeped in history and culture. If you’re looking for a day trip from Milan, Monza might be just the thing. This charming city is a treasure trove of historical significance and architectural wonders.

Monza’s history dates back to Roman times, but it truly rose to prominence during the Middle Ages, when it was a more significant centre than Milan.

The city’s crown jewel is the stunning Basilica di Monza, a masterpiece of Romanesque-Gothic architecture. This cathedral houses the Iron Crown of Lombardy, said to contain a nail from the True Cross and to symbolise the unity of the Lombard people. Legend has it that the crown was used in the coronation of Charlemagne in 774 and was definitely used throughout the Middle Ages in the coronations of various Holy Roman Emperors, including Napoleon. The Iron Crown is a circlet made of gold and set with precious gems. Recent scientific studies indicate that its current form can be traced back to modifications made between the 4th and 5th centuries and the 9th century. It is likely a late antique royal symbol, potentially of Ostrogothic origin, passed down to the Lombard kings and eventually acquired by the Carolingian monarchs.

Other things thing to see in Monza:

Chapel of Teodolinda: A chapel set on the northern side of the Basilica di Monza, the Teodolinda Chapel houses the Iron Crown. It contains a beautiful fresco cycle, recently restored, that depicts scenes from the life of Teodolinda, the 6th Century Queen of the Lombards.
Villa Reale (Royal Palace of Monza): Wander through the expansive park surrounding the Villa Reale, a neoclassical masterpiece commissioned by Empress Maria Theresa of Austria. The palace and its grounds offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Autodromo Nazionale Monza: For racing enthusiasts, visiting the famous Monza Circuit is a must. This historic racetrack has hosted Formula One races since 1922 and is a shrine for motorsport fans.
Arengario Palace: Explore the Arengario Palace, which houses the Civic Art Collections and Contemporary Art Gallery. The palace itself is an architectural gem, and the collections inside showcase historic and contemporary Italian art.
Monza Park (Parco di Monza): Enjoy a leisurely stroll or a bike ride through Monza Park, one of the largest enclosed parks in Europe. The park features lush greenery, charming bridges, and the historic Royal Villa.

Culinary Delights:

No visit to Monza would be complete without trying the local cuisine. Indulge in traditional Lombard dishes at one of the many charming restaurants around the city. Local specialities include Risotto alla Monzese, a creamy risotto featuring saffron, a nod to the Lombard countryside’s agricultural heritage. Another must-try is Cassoeula, a savoury pork and cabbage stew, representing the hearty fare enjoyed during colder months. Also try the local cheese and Brianza salami, which are made in the area just outside Monza.

We visit Monza on our Italian Lakes and Lombardy tour in June 2024.

05 Jan Five Hidden Gems of the Veneto

Posted at 07:12h in Architecture, Destinations, Food and Wine, Travel Tips by Italian Tours

The Veneto boasts some of Italy’s most popular tourist attractions, like Venice and Verona, but it also contains hidden gems that are often overlooked and underestimated. You can discover these treasures that lie off the usual tourist path, even in popular destinations. Whether it’s the tranquil trattorias and the serene lagoon at Torcello in Venice or the symmetrical and breathtaking Giardino Giusti in Verona, there’s something to captivate everyone.

Here are five lesser-known places you should consider if you visit this extraordinary corner of Italy. We include each location on our The Lands of the Serenissima tour of the Veneto in June this year.

1. The Scrovegni Chapel: A Frescoed Masterpiece

Padova’s Scrovegni Chapel is an artistic jewel housing a series of breathtaking frescoes by Giotto. The chapel was consecrated in 1305 and is renowned for its narrative cycle depicting the lives of the Virgin Mary and Christ. The artist’s masterful use of perspective and emotional depth was celebrated at the time; it revolutionised art and influenced the newly emerging style, which would later be known as the Renaissance. The meticulous preservation of the chapel and its enormous cultural significance make it a must-visit location. Even for those less excited about art, the experience of being part of a small group walking into this space where vivid colours surround you is spellbinding.

2. Prosecco Hills: A Toast to Tranquility

The Prosecco Hills is a stunning landscape of soft green contours in the foothills of the Dolomites. Part of the area features the vine-covered slopes that make its much-appreciated wine. But it’s also an area for cultivating chestnuts, corn and cheese. It has castles, abbeys, and hilltop churches with impressive views and thousands of years of history. At Follina, the Abbey is a quiet witness to the passing years. The Molinetto della Croda, a nearby watermill, was built in the 1700s. Not far off, the Pieve di San Pietro, a historic church, adds its presence to the unmistakable charm of the surroundings. In the Prosecco Hills, the muted atmosphere lets the heritage of the land speak for itself.

3. Marostica: Living Chess and Medieval Charms

Marostica is a small town with a charming medieval feel. It is famous for its twice-a-year chess game, which takes place on a giant chessboard in the town square and is played with live actors in pageant costumes. The town has meandering cobblestone streets and mediaeval walls watched over by the Lower and Upper Castles. It is not on the regular tourist trail, and the atmosphere resembles a typical provincial town, albeit with impressive attractions.

4. Cittadella: A Fortress Frozen in Time

Cittadella is a small walled city. It was built in the 13th century, and its walls remain largely intact, making it a fascinating spot to visit. You can walk along the walls and explore the city’s many towers, gates and other architectural features. The town also boasts several beautiful churches, museums and galleries, and restaurants and cafes serving local cuisine. Cittadella is a charming and picturesque town that offers a glimpse into medieval Italian life.

5. Vicenza: Palladian Elegance

Vicenza holds a remarkable collection of architectural wonders and a deep cultural heritage. The city is an ideal destination for architecture enthusiasts, who can marvel at the Palladian Basilica and the Teatro Olimpico, among other notable landmarks. The charming streets offer plenty of opportunities to take a leisurely stroll and soak up the local atmosphere. Surrounding the city is the natural beauty of the Berici Hills, which is perfect for outdoor activities.

Discover these hidden gems and others on our Veneto tour, Lands of the Serenissima, which aims to reveal Veneto’s unique secrets by including a mixture of culture, scenery, food, personal time and fun.

21 Nov Discover the Valtellina – An Alpine Paradise

Posted at 07:12h in Destinations by Italian Tours

Known as the “Alpine Jewel of Lombardy,” the Valtellina valley offers an enchanting getaway for travellers seeking a blend of rich history, captivating architecture, and the majesty of the Alps. Nestled in the heart of Lombardy, this hidden gem is a true revelation. Nature, culture, and adventure blend perfectly to create an unforgettable experience.

Key Attractions

Discover the region’s rich history through visits to historical sites, including well-preserved Roman ruins, medieval castles, and churches that showcase the area’s cultural heritage. Immerse yourself in the stunning alpine panorama of the Valtellina, where snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and pristine rivers define the landscape.

Sondrio’s Charm
Sondrio, the capital of the area, is a vibrant hub of culture and traditions. It hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating the region’s music, arts, and folklore in grand style.

Winemaking Wonders
The valley boasts a rich tradition of winemaking, where Nebbiolo grapes reign supreme. The region’s unique climate and terraced vineyards conspire to craft exquisite Valtellina wines, a delight for connoisseurs.

Historical Treasures
Step back in time as you explore charming historical towns and villages, each showcasing its unique architectural heritage. Medieval castles, churches, and traditional stone houses reveal the region’s rich history.

Spectacular Railway Journeys
Tirano, a quaint mountain town, is the gateway to a breathtaking journey. The Bernina Express starts from here, treating you to awe-inspiring mountain vistas all the way to St. Moritz in Switzerland.

Culinary Delights

The Valtellina’s cuisine reflects the region’s diversity, with different areas offering their own specialities and variations on classic dishes. This regional diversity adds depth and complexity to the local food culture. The area’s proximity to the Alpine region means its cuisine incorporates ingredients and flavours typical of the mountain cultures. This includes hearty, nutrient-rich foods such as buckwheat, cheese, and air-dried meats.

Pizzoccheri
You must experience the local speciality of pizzoccheri, a type of buckwheat pasta that’s a favourite comfort food in the Valtellina. It’s often served with a mouthwatering combination of potatoes, cabbage, garlic, sage, and cheese, creating a hearty and flavoursome dish.

Bresaola
Savour the richness of bresaola, an air-dried beef delicacy for which the Valtellina is famous. This cured meat is typically sliced thinly and served with a drizzle of olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh ground pepper, creating a perfect balance of flavours.

Sciatt
Don’t let the unappetising name put you off this irresistible alpine treat. These fried cheese balls are as indulgent as they sound, with a crispy exterior and a gooey, cheesy centre. They are often served with lingonberry jam, adding a touch of sweetness to the savoury experience.

Honey
The local honey comes in a surprising number of varieties, including rhododendron, chestnut, linden, alpine multiflora, and acacia. The province of Sondrio features a total of 6,000 hives alone.

Explore the Outdoors

The stunning alpine landscapes make it the perfect canvas for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a passionate cyclist, or simply someone who loves to breathe in the fresh mountain air, Valtellina offers many thrilling experiences. With its network of hiking and trekking trails, challenging mountain biking routes, and opportunities for wildlife spotting, this region invites you to explore its pristine natural beauty.

Wildlife Wonders
Discover the biodiversity of the area’s nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries. Rare bird species, mammals, and reptiles await your observation in these protected havens. Stelvio National Park is the largest park in the Alps, spanning valleys formed by glaciers and the waters that flow down from the imposing Ortles-Cevedale mountains.

Cycling Paradise
Calling all cyclists and mountain biking enthusiasts! Valtellina beckons with its scenic routes and challenging mountain trails, a paradise for bikers from around the world. The “Sentiero Valtellina” is a trail covering almost the entire breadth of Valtellina and Valchiavenna.

Winter Wonderland
For snow enthusiasts, the valley transforms into a winter wonderland from late December to early April. Skiing, snowboarding, and a range of winter activities await in renowned resorts such as Bormio, Livigno, and Aprica.

We spend a beautiful day in the Valtellina on our Italian Lakes Discovery tour (May and September 2024) and our Italian Lakes and Lombardy tour (June 2024).

13 Oct Uncover the authentic charm of Italy on a small group tour

Posted at 03:12h in Destinations, Travel Tips by Italian Tours

Are you dreaming of a trip to Italy?

With its rich history, culture, and gastronomy, Italy has something to offer everyone. However, while some people enjoy planning their trips months in advance, others find the minutiae of planning overwhelming.

Our small group tours allow you to immerse yourself in the authentic charm of bella Italia, while someone else makes sure everything runs smoothly. Our itineraries are carefully crafted by Luca and Philippa, who personally plan every aspect of the journey. Come along and explore the magic of Italy in a way that’s both intimate and enriching.

What is it that makes our tours so unique?

Carefully planned Itineraries

Our tours are meticulously designed to provide you with an authentic Italian experience. We’ve scoured the country to curate the perfect blend of history, art, culture, and gastronomy.

Small groups

Our small groups of no more than 12 adventurers ensure a personalised and intimate experience. You’ll create meaningful connections with your fellow travellers, your tour leader and the locals you meet along the way.

Slow-paced exploration

We believe in savouring every moment. With a minimum of 3 nights in each location, you’ll spend less time packing and unpacking and more time exploring at your own pace.

Expert Italian tour leaders

Our passionate tour leaders are dedicated to introducing you to Italy’s hidden gems. Their intimate knowledge of the country helps unlock unique experiences that aren’t accessible to all travellers.

Culinary delights

We love introducing our clients to the regional specialities that make eating in Italy so interesting. Most of our meals are à la carte, allowing you to relish the rich flavours of the regional cuisine and enjoy exceptional local wines.

A great time

Our tours are not only about exploring Italy’s hidden gems but also about having a great time. We don’t take ourselves too seriously, and we believe it’s important to enjoy every moment, laugh and create some wonderful memories.

11 Oct Discovering Lecce

Posted at 03:12h in Destinations, Uncategorized by Italian Tours

Whether you’re on one of our small group tours to Puglia or setting off on your own adventure, Lecce should be at the top of your must-visit list for this southern region.

Known as the “Florence of the South,” Lecce is an enchanting destination that beckons travellers seeking a taste of Italy’s rich history and unparalleled architecture. Nestled in the heart of Puglia, this captivating city is a hidden gem.

The city’s history dates back to ancient times, with its roots in the Messapian civilisation. Over the centuries, it has been influenced by various cultures, which have left an indelible mark on the city’s architecture and cultural heritage.

Key Places to Visit

Lecce is renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture. The cityscape is adorned with intricate details and ornate facades. The distinctive Baroque style is characterised by the use of local golden sandstone, known as pietra leccese, which gives the buildings a warm, honey-coloured glow. As you stroll through the city’s winding streets, you’ll encounter these masterpieces at every turn.

The city centres on Piazza Sant’Oronzo, named after Saint Oronzo, the city’s patron saint. Piazza Sant’Oronzo is known for its Roman ruins, including a well-preserved Roman amphitheatre. The square also features a column with a statue of Saint Oronzo at the top and an elegant loggia that was an early town hall.

The remarkably well-preserved Roman Amphitheatre is a testament to the city’s ancient history. Its construction dates back to the second century AD and the time of Emperor Hadrian’s rule. It was only discovered by accident in 1901 when workers were digging foundations for a new building.

Another iconic square, the city’s religious heart, is the Piazza del Duomo featuring the Duomo di Lecce. The cathedral itself is a stunning example of Lecce Baroque architecture with an elaborate façade adorned with sculptures and ornate decorations.

The Basilica di Santa Croce is perhaps the masterpiece of Lecce Baroque. The church is adorned with a façade featuring a rich abundance of statues, cherubs, and baroque designs.

Another prime example of Lecce’s architectural splendour is the Palazzo Celestine, a former monastery that now houses the City Hall. In 1807 during the Napoleonic occupation, the Celestine fathers were evicted, and the convent was put to other uses.

Not much remains of Lecce’s fortified walls, but the Porta Napoli still stands. Completed in 1548 after a commission by Charles V to fortify the city, Porta Napoli is one of three entrances built into Lecce’s city walls. The entrance gate is a reminder of Lecce’s defensive past and offers an excellent photo opportunity.

Culinary Delights of Lecce and Salento

No trip to Lecce would be complete without savouring the region’s exquisite cuisine. Lecce and the surrounding Salento area have a distinct culinary identity, with several dishes that are unique to the region.

Rustico Leccese

A popular snack or street food, Rustico Leccese is a savory pastry filled with tomato, mozzarella, and bechamel sauce. It’s often enjoyed as a quick, delicious bite.

Pasticciotto
This is a famous dessert from Lecce and Salento. Pasticciotto is a sweet pastry filled with creamy custard in various flavours, including classic vanilla and fruit variations.

Leccese Tarallini
These are small, crunchy, ring-shaped biscuits that make for an excellent snack or appetizer. They can be found in popular flavours, such as fennel or black pepper.

Melanzane Ripiene
Stuffed eggplants are a common dish in Lecce. The eggplants are typically hollowed out and filled with a mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, herbs, and sometimes meat. They are then baked until golden and delicious.

Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa
While orecchiette pasta is not unique to Lecce, the way it’s prepared with cime di rapa (broccoli rabe or rapini) is a local speciality. The combination of the pasta’s shape and the slightly bitter greens creates a flavourful and beloved dish in the region.

Be sure to explore the local restaurants and trattorias to savour these delicious specialities during your visit to Lecce.

Exploring the Salento Area

Lecce’s strategic location makes it an ideal base for exploring the picturesque Salento region of Puglia. Nearby towns like Otranto and Galatina are easily accessible and offer unique cultural experiences, from historic churches to charming coastal landscapes.

Otranto
This coastal gem boasts a beautiful beach, a captivating historic centre, and the stunning Otranto Cathedral with its exquisite mosaic floor.

Galatina
Known for its impressive Basilica of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, Galatina offers a glimpse into Puglia’s religious heritage. Here, you can also visit the Pasticceria Ascalone, where Pasticiotto itself was invented in 1745.

Lands’ End
A short drive from Lecce will take you to Santa Maria di Leuca, where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet, marking the southernmost point in Puglia. The views here are nothing short of breathtaking.

You can stay in Lecce on our 14-day Road Less Travelled Tour of Puglia, or visit the city on our 8-day Highlights of Puglia Tour.

14 Aug A POSTCARD FROM OTRANTO, PUGLIA

Posted at 01:31h in Destinations, Travel Tips by Italian Tours

The walled port city of Otranto in Puglia is Italy’s most eastern town. On a clear day, if you gaze out from the city’s walls across the Adriatic, you can make out the coast of Albania and the mountain ranges of Mount Çika. Just as mesmerising is the view from Otranto’s walls of the crystal clear turquoise waters. The town’s outlook, its history, and charming nature make it well worth visiting.

Founded by the Messapians, the town has a history of occupation that includes the Greeks, the Romans and the Normans. One of its most colourful periods was in the 11th century when it became a leading Crusader port.

It is also remembered for a more macabre chapter when, in 1480, the Ottomans invaded and looted the citadel. Legend has it that they sacked the city, killing twelve thousand people, and then went on to massacre the eight hundred survivors who had sought refuge in the cathedral and refused to renounce their Christianity. Historians disagree on the story’s veracity, but it was good enough for the church. Pope Clementine XIV beatified the eight hundred martyrs in 1771, and they were canonised by Pope Francis in 2013.

The most fascinating aspect of the city is the cathedral, whose architecture reflects the 11th-century Norman influence as opposed to the Baroque architecture prevalent elsewhere in Puglia. The highlight is the medieval mosaic floor, one of Italy’s most mysterious and impressive mosaics.

A priest, Pantaleone, carried out the work in 1165, employing a ‘primitive’ style that art critics compare with the Bayeux Tapestry. Scholars continue to debate the significance and inspiration of its allegorical images, which include Adam and Eve, King Solomon, Alexander the Great and King Arthur.

The mosaic’s centrepiece represents three giant Trees of Life, a common motif in early Christian and Islamic art. Amongst the branches of the trees, you will see scriptural scenes, animals, symbols of the months and other fantastical images. It truly is quite remarkable!

The church also contains the macabre Chapel of the Martyrs, where eight hundred skulls are preserved and mounted on the walls.

Don’t miss Otranto on your journeys around the Salento region of Puglia! If you want to come with us, we will visit it on our Puglia – A Road Less Travelled Tour in May and September 2024.

01 Jun FIVE INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT LAKE COMO

Posted at 01:31h in Destinations, Travel Tips by Italian Tours

Lake Como is rightly one of the most popular summer destinations in northern Italy and lots of people know the lake for its beautiful scenery and elegant villas. But there is more to Lake Como than meets the eye.

1. Lake Como is one of the deepest lakes in Italy.

It’s the depth that gives the waters their vivid blue colour that makes for such spectacular vistas! At its deepest points, the waters of Lake Como are more than 425 metres deep. Australia’s deepest lake, by comparison, is Lake St Clair in Tasmania, which is about 200 metres deep.

I’m also guessing that’s why the waters of Lake Como are so cold!

2. The town of Como was an important centre in Roman times.

The Romans built the Via Regina along the lake’s western shore. This placed Como in a vital position on the major trading route between the Po valley on the Italian peninsula and the Rhine Valley in what is now Switzerland. The lake’s popularity as a summer resort also started in Roman times, with wealthy Romans recognizing the beauty of the area and beginning to build villas on the lakeshore.

3. Lake Como supposedly has its very own lake monster, Lario!

The first reported “sighting” was in 1946 when a large reptile-like creature was spotted swimming in the lake. It was named Lariosauro, after the prehistoric reptile whose fossilized remains were found near Lake Como (Lariosaurus balsami).

There have only been a handful of sightings over the years, so it must be very shy!

Main image (above) by Bruce Meier on Unsplash

Photo by Lewis J Goetz on Unsplash

4. Lake Como is the capital of Italy’s silk production.

No one knows precisely how silkworms first came to Italy, but one fascinating account has two priests smuggling them out of China in the 6th Century!
It wasn’t until the 15th Century that silk production in the Como area really commenced. Ludovico Sforza, the Duke of Milan, ordered the planting of mulberry trees on the shores of Lake Como. This led to the dramatic expansion of the silk industry, as fascinatingly, silkworms can eat anything but will only produce silk when they are eating mulberry leaves.
The establishment of a prestigious school for silk artisans in the 19th Century cemented Como’s industry dominance. The school still operates today and trains some of the world’s most talented silk masters.

5. Como played a role in closing a dark chapter in Italy’s history.

In 1945, Italian partisan forces captured a party of retreating fascist officials who were fleeing north towards Switzerland. Amongst them were Mussolini and his lover Petacci. They were summarily tried and executed on the shores of the lake at Giulino di Mezzegra, thus ending a sad chapter in Italian history.
When we stayed in Lenno in 2013 after our wedding, we were walking in the hills behind Lenno and stumbled across the site, commemorated by a small plaque on the gate of a private house. It was pretty chilling.

Are you planning a trip to Lake Como?

We can help with recommendations for hotels, restaurants and things to do, even where to buy Como’s famous silk. Just get in touch, and we can put together a custom itinerary for you.
If you’d like to join one of the tours that visit Lake Como, it’s not too late to join our Milan and the Lakes tour in 2022 or start planning for one of our 2023 tours.