wine tasting tuscany

Half-Day Wine Tastings from Florence: Discover Tuscany’s Vineyards

Florence is surrounded by one of the most celebrated wine regions in the world—Tuscany, home to centuries-old vineyards, rolling hills, and some of Italy’s most iconic wines. You don’t need a full day to enjoy the magic of this landscape: with half-day wine tours, you can escape the city, taste local varietals, and return in time for dinner.
Enhance your Tuscan experience by booking one of our Florence Tours.

Chianti Classico: The Quintessential Tuscan Wine Tour

Just 30–40 minutes from Florence, the Chianti Classico region is the most popular choice for a half-day wine excursion. Its scenic roads, medieval villages, and prestigious wineries make it ideal for both beginners and connoisseurs.

What to expect:

  • Visits to family-owned vineyards or larger estates with centuries of winemaking history
  • Tastings of Chianti Classico DOCG, often paired with pecorino cheese, salumi, and bruschetta
  • Stops in picturesque villages like Greve in Chianti or Panzano

Most tours include round-trip transport, cellar tours, and small-group formats to ensure a personal experience.

Fiesole and the Hills North of Florence

If you’re short on time but still want a vineyard experience, head to the hills just north of Florence, around Fiesole and Settignano.

These areas offer:

  • Small-scale wineries producing Chianti Colli Fiorentini and other Tuscan reds
  • Beautiful views over the Florence skyline
  • Less-traveled routes for a more intimate, countryside feel

Some wineries in this area offer sunset tastings or early afternoon experiences, perfect for combining with a morning museum visit.

Carmignano: A Hidden Gem for Wine Lovers

West of Florence, about 45 minutes away, lies the Carmignano wine region—less famous than Chianti, but historically significant (it was mentioned in Medici documents as early as the 18th century).

Highlights include:

  • Unique blends of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon, grown in mineral-rich soil
  • Visits to historic estates often passed down through generations
  • Peaceful, uncrowded tastings in authentic Tuscan settings

This is a great option for visitors looking for something off the beaten path.

Wine and Olive Oil Tastings in the Tuscan Hills

Many half-day tours from Florence combine wine tasting with extra virgin olive oil sampling, giving a broader sense of Tuscan agricultural tradition.

Expect:

  • Guided walks through vineyards and olive groves
  • Cellar tours explaining traditional vs. modern methods
  • Tastings of olio nuovo (new harvest oil) on fresh bread, along with selected wines

These tours are usually hosted by agriturismi or boutique estates, ideal for travelers seeking authenticity and scenic tranquility.

Tips for Choosing the Right Wine Tour

  • Check departure times: Morning and afternoon options are available; late-afternoon tours often include golden-hour views.
  • Opt for small groups: Look for tours capped at 8–12 people for a more personalized experience.
  • Ask about food pairings: Many include local snacks or light lunches.
  • Dress appropriately: Casual, comfortable clothing and closed shoes are best—vineyards can be rocky or uneven.
  • Book early in August and September: These are peak months for wine tourism and harvest activities.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a full-day commitment to experience the essence of Tuscan wine culture. These half-day wine tours from Florence are perfect for travelers looking to balance city exploration with a taste of the countryside. Whether you’re sipping Chianti under a pergola or sampling bold reds in a historic villa, each experience offers a sensory journey through one of Italy’s most beloved traditions.

evening-walks-in-rome

Night Walks in Rome’s Lesser-Known Districts: Monti and Testaccio

Rome after dark has a magic of its own. While crowds gather around the Colosseum or Piazza Navona, the true Roman soul can be found in its less touristy neighborhoods. Two districts in particular, Monti and Testaccio, offer the perfect atmosphere for night walks that combine authenticity, history, and local life.

For those who wish to explore them with expert guidance, our Rome evening tours include off-the-beaten-path itineraries where the Eternal City reveals its most genuine side.

Monti: Bohemian Charm by Night

Nestled between the Colosseum and Via Nazionale, Monti is one of Rome’s oldest districts, yet it feels like a world apart.

Piazza della Madonna dei Monti

This small square is the beating heart of the neighborhood. By evening, locals gather around the central fountain, chatting with friends or sipping wine bought from nearby bars. The lively but relaxed atmosphere makes it the perfect place to start a stroll.

Narrow Streets and Artisan Shops

Walking through Monti’s cobbled alleys, you’ll discover independent boutiques, small galleries, and artisan workshops. At night, many shopfronts glow warmly, and the streets are filled with locals enjoying an aperitivo.

Bars and Wine Cellars

Monti is famous for its eclectic nightlife, with everything from traditional osterie serving Roman cuisine to trendy cocktail bars. A walk here is an immersion into a Roman evening lived by residents rather than tourists.

Testaccio: The True Roman Spirit

South of the Aventine Hill lies Testaccio, a district deeply tied to Rome’s working-class traditions and culinary culture.

Monte dei Cocci

The neighborhood takes its name from a hill made of broken amphorae dating back to Ancient Rome. Walking past it at night, you’ll feel the weight of history in an otherwise lively quarter.

Piazza Testaccio

This square becomes vibrant in the evening, with families strolling and locals gathering in cafés. Around the piazza, you’ll find trattorias serving classic Roman dishes like cacio e pepe and carbonara.

Street Art and Music

Testaccio is also known for its street art, visible along Via Galvani and other streets. By night, the murals take on a new character under the glow of street lamps. The district is home to live music venues and clubs, making it ideal for those who want to end their walk with entertainment.

Tips for Evening Walks in Monti and Testaccio

  • Start around sunset: This is when the neighborhoods come alive, with piazzas filling up.
  • Take it slow: These are areas to wander without a fixed plan, following the flow of life.
  • Stop for an aperitivo or gelato: The charm of these walks lies in experiencing the district like a local.
  • Bring curiosity: Look out for small details, from street art to hidden courtyards.

Final Thoughts

Monti and Testaccio are living examples of Rome beyond the postcards. By night, they reveal their truest character—Monti with its bohemian energy, Testaccio with its working-class heart and culinary traditions. Walking here after dark means stepping into the everyday life of the city, where history, culture, and community blend under the Roman night sky.

san-miniato-florence

Esoteric Symbols of Florence: A Mysterious Itinerary Through Churches and Palaces

Florence is famous as the cradle of the Renaissance, but behind its harmonious facades and elegant palaces lies a more enigmatic story: one of esoteric symbols, mystical inscriptions, and hidden codes left in plain sight. These symbols are scattered across churches, monuments, and streets, offering an intriguing itinerary for visitors curious to explore the city’s secret side.
To uncover these layers of mystery with expert guidance, consider joining one of our Florence tours, where history and legend intertwine.

Palazzo Vecchio: Alchemy and Secret Codes

The seat of Florence’s political power, Palazzo Vecchio, hides more than official history. On its facade and interiors, you’ll find symbols linked to alchemy, astrology, and secret societies.

  • The sun and moon motifs: carved to represent cosmic balance.
  • The labyrinth symbol engraved on the courtyard, evoking spiritual journeys.
  • Secret passages inside the palace once used by the Medici, associated with power and hidden knowledge.

A walk through Palazzo Vecchio reveals how politics and esotericism often went hand in hand during the Renaissance.

Santa Maria Novella: Geometric Perfection

The facade of Santa Maria Novella, designed by Leon Battista Alberti, is a masterpiece of mathematical harmony. But beyond beauty lies deeper symbolism:

  • Geometric proportions reflect cosmic order and harmony between man and the divine.
  • The Dominican rose window, associated with divine wisdom, channels light in symbolic patterns during specific times of the year.
  • Ancient symbols of the sun and zodiac appear in the church’s details, linking theology with astronomy.

The Dome of Santa Maria del Fiore: Astrology in Stone

Brunelleschi’s dome is a symbol of Renaissance genius, but also of esoteric knowledge.

  • The zodiac frescoes painted inside represent celestial influence over human destiny.
  • The dome itself, with its octagonal shape, recalls sacred numerology and cosmic order.
  • Brunelleschi was rumored to have been fascinated by geometry and mystical proportions, embedding hidden meanings in his architecture.

Piazza della Signoria: Pagan Echoes in a Christian City

The political heart of Florence, Piazza della Signoria, is also an open-air museum of symbols.

  • The statues of Neptune and Hercules carry pagan echoes tied to strength, fertility, and elemental forces.
  • Hidden marks on the stone walls recall ancient esoteric societies that operated discreetly during the Renaissance.
  • Even the positioning of fountains and statues reflects a symbolic mapping of power.

San Miniato al Monte: A Temple of Esotericism

Overlooking the city, San Miniato al Monte is perhaps Florence’s most symbolic site.

  • The black-and-white marble facade recalls duality: life and death, light and shadow.
  • The zodiac wheel inside the church links worship with cosmic rhythms.
  • The crypt, dimly lit and mysterious, was considered a place of spiritual transformation.

Street Symbols and Lesser-Known Curiosities

Walking through Florence, you’ll notice:

  • Etchings of strange symbols on walls, especially around the medieval towers.
  • Alchemical graffiti carved by stonemasons or hidden on side streets.
  • Small, mysterious bronze plaques placed in corners, marking ancient rituals or forgotten guilds.

These details often go unnoticed, but together they reveal Florence’s mystical past.

Tips for Exploring Florence’s Esoteric Side

  • Walk slowly and look up—symbols are often carved high on facades or hidden in corners.
  • Visit at different times of day: light and shadow reveal hidden patterns in architecture.
  • Bring a guidebook or join a tour: some meanings require context from history, philosophy, or alchemy.

Final Thoughts

Florence is not only a city of art but also a city of secrets. Its churches, palaces, and piazzas are coded with esoteric messages, blending mathematics, religion, and mysticism into stone. Exploring this hidden layer of the city means experiencing Florence not just with your eyes, but with curiosity and imagination—where every detail whispers of a deeper truth.

bird market paris

The Bird Market on Île de la Cité: A Timeless Parisian Tradition

In the very heart of Paris, next to the famous flower market on Île de la Cité, stands one of the city’s oldest and most unusual traditions: the Sunday bird market. For centuries, Parisians have gathered here to buy, sell, and admire birds of every kind, from exotic species to familiar canaries. This market is more than a commercial exchange—it is a window into Paris’s cultural history and the evolution of urban life.
For travelers interested in exploring hidden corners of the city, our Paris tours reveal stories and secrets behind this wonderful city.

Origins of the Bird Market

The tradition of selling birds in Paris dates back to the 19th century, when the city’s flower markets expanded to include small animals. The market quickly became popular among Parisians who saw birds not only as pets but also as symbols of luck, freedom, and companionship.

Throughout the years, it became a Sunday ritual: families would stroll through Île de la Cité, admire the cages filled with singing birds, and often bring one home.

The Atmosphere Today

Though times have changed, the Sunday bird market still carries its old-world charm. The market is held in small pavilions and stalls, where vendors display a variety of birds:

  • Colorful parrots and parakeets
  • Canaries and finches with melodic songs
  • Exotic species rarely seen elsewhere

The atmosphere is unique, filled with the sounds of chirping, conversations between breeders and buyers, and the sight of children marveling at the animals.

Location: Next to the Flower Market

The bird market takes place right beside the Marché aux Fleurs (flower market), itself a Parisian landmark since 1808. The combination of fragrant flowers and singing birds creates a picturesque and almost timeless scene.

This corner of Île de la Cité is not far from Notre-Dame Cathedral, making it an easily accessible stop for those already exploring the island’s monuments.

A Controversial Tradition

In recent years, the bird market has sparked debate. Animal welfare associations have raised concerns about the conditions in which birds are kept and sold. While authorities have considered changes, the market continues to function, balancing between tradition and modern expectations.

For many Parisians, it remains a cherished ritual, while for visitors it offers a glimpse of a more authentic, less polished Paris.

Tips for Visiting

  • Visit on Sunday mornings: This is when the bird market is in full swing.
  • Combine it with a walk: The location is perfect for pairing with a visit to Notre-Dame or a stroll along the Seine.
  • Bring curiosity: Even if you don’t plan to buy, it’s a cultural experience worth seeing.

Final Thoughts

The bird market of Île de la Cité is more than a market—it is a living tradition that tells the story of Parisian life through the centuries. Visiting it allows travelers to experience Paris beyond museums and monuments, discovering a side of the city rooted in everyday rituals and community gatherings.

punta-della-dogana-venice

What’s On in Venice in September: Cinema, Culture, and Festivals

September in Venice is a month of vibrant cultural life. As the summer crowds thin and the weather turns pleasantly mild, the city hosts a series of world-class events celebrating cinema, contemporary art, and age-old traditions. For travelers, it’s the perfect time to explore Venice while experiencing its most prestigious festivals.
Enhance your visit by joining one of our Venice tours, some of which include access to exclusive events and behind-the-scenes experiences.

Venice International Film Festival

The Mostra Internazionale d’Arte Cinematografica di Venezia is one of the oldest and most prestigious film festivals in the world. Held annually on the Lido di Venezia, this year from 27 August to 9 September, it attracts global celebrities, directors, and cinephiles.

Highlights include:

  • Red carpet premieres of international and Italian films
  • Public screenings at various venues, from state-of-the-art theaters to open-air setups
  • Masterclasses and Q&A sessions with renowned directors and actors

If you want to attend, book tickets early and consider staying on the Lido for easier access to events.

Biennale Arte and Biennale Architettura

In years when the Biennale Arte or Biennale Architettura takes place (alternating annually), September is an ideal month to explore its pavilions and installations. Spread across the Giardini, Arsenale, and multiple venues around the city, the exhibitions showcase cutting-edge creativity from around the globe.

Even outside Biennale years, Venice in September often hosts satellite exhibitions and collateral events in palaces and galleries.

Regata Storica: Tradition on the Grand Canal

Held on the first Sunday of September, the Regata Storica is a spectacular display of Venice’s maritime heritage. The event begins with a colorful parade of historical boats, with rowers dressed in Renaissance costumes.

The competitive regatta features different boat categories, including the famous gondolini, in thrilling races along the Grand Canal. Spectators line the banks, and the atmosphere is festive and full of local pride.

Contemporary Art Exhibitions

September also marks the opening or continuation of major art exhibitions in Venice’s museums and cultural institutions. Notable venues include:

  • Palazzo Grassi and Punta della Dogana, known for hosting contemporary art from the Pinault Collection
  • Peggy Guggenheim Collection, featuring modern art in a stunning Grand Canal setting
  • Temporary shows in lesser-known venues like Palazzo Fortuny or island-based art spaces

Local Fairs and Cultural Events

Beyond the big-name festivals, September offers smaller-scale events that give a taste of Venetian life:

  • Festa della Madonna della Salute in Burano (mid-September): A mix of religious processions, music, and food stalls on the colorful island
  • Cultural nights in museums and churches with special guided tours
  • Artisan fairs in Campo San Polo or Campo Santo Stefano, showcasing glass, lace, and ceramics

Tips for Experiencing Venice in September

  • Book accommodation early, as the Film Festival and Regata Storica attract large numbers of visitors
  • Combine events with sightseeing: Plan your route so you can attend exhibitions and explore nearby neighborhoods
  • Check official programs: Dates and times may vary each year, so consult event websites for the latest schedules
  • Use public transport passes: Vaporetto routes can get busy, especially around major events, so plan accordingly

Final Thoughts

September in Venice is a month when the city’s artistic, cinematic, and traditional sides come together in a rich cultural tapestry. From glamorous film premieres to centuries-old regattas, each event offers a different perspective on the Serenissima. Whether you’re here for the red carpet or the rowing races, you’ll leave with memories of a city that knows how to celebrate its heritage while embracing the world.

rooftop aperitivo terraces in rome

The Best Rooftop Terraces in Rome for a Sunset Aperitivo

There are few experiences more memorable in the Eternal City than sipping a glass of wine or a perfectly mixed cocktail while watching the sunset over Rome’s domes and rooftops. Rooftop terraces here combine stunning views, relaxed elegance, and the timeless charm of an Italian aperitivo.
To combine these moments with cultural exploration, check out our Rome tours, many of which end near some of the city’s best rooftop bars for the perfect finale to your day.

Terrazza Borromini – Piazza Navona from Above

Located in a 17th-century palace overlooking Piazza Navona, Terrazza Borromini offers one of the most exclusive views in Rome. From here, you can see the Fountain of the Four Rivers and the baroque skyline bathed in golden light.

  • What to drink: Classic Negroni or Prosecco
  • Atmosphere: Elegant and intimate, ideal for couples
  • Tip: Reservations are highly recommended, especially in summer

Les Étoiles – St. Peter’s Dome in Full View

The rooftop terrace of Hotel Atlante Star is famous for its spectacular, front-row view of St. Peter’s Basilica. As the sun sets, the dome lights up, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your aperitivo.

  • What to drink: Aperol Spritz or a glass of Franciacorta
  • Atmosphere: Panoramic and romantic, perfect for special occasions
  • Tip: Arrive early to get a table facing the Vatican

La Grande Bellezza – A Cinematic Experience

Perched on top of Palazzo Pamphilj and part of the Eitch Borromini Hotel, this terrace lives up to its name—The Great Beauty. The setting feels like a movie, with views of the Pantheon, Castel Sant’Angelo, and beyond.

  • What to drink: Signature cocktails with Italian liqueurs
  • Atmosphere: Luxurious and serene
  • Tip: Best enjoyed during the golden hour for the full effect

Minerva Roof Garden – The Pantheon at Your Feet

Located above the Grand Hotel de la Minerve, this terrace offers close-up views of the Pantheon’s dome and the rooftops of the historic center.

  • What to drink: Bellini or white wine from Lazio
  • Atmosphere: Elegant yet relaxed, with impeccable service
  • Tip: Ideal for a pre-dinner aperitivo before exploring the nearby piazzas

Caffetteria Bramante – Hidden Charm in Trastevere

Tucked away in Trastevere, this lesser-known terrace offers a cozy, authentic Roman vibe with views over terracotta rooftops and quiet squares. It’s a favorite among locals who prefer a more laid-back aperitivo.

  • What to drink: Local craft beer or a Campari Soda
  • Atmosphere: Informal and friendly
  • Tip: Perfect for escaping the tourist crowds

Il Giardino – Sofitel Villa Borghese

With sweeping views over Villa Borghese Gardens and the city beyond, this rooftop bar blends greenery and skyline in a unique way. It’s an oasis above the urban buzz.

  • What to drink: Gin & tonic with Mediterranean botanicals
  • Atmosphere: Chic and garden-like
  • Tip: Great for small groups or a peaceful romantic evening

Tips for Enjoying a Rooftop Aperitivo in Rome

  • Book in advance: Many terraces have limited seating and are in high demand during summer.
  • Dress smart casual: Some venues have a relaxed code, others expect more formal attire.
  • Arrive before sunset: This ensures you get the best table and enjoy the full light-to-night transition.
  • Check for live music: Some rooftops host jazz trios or DJs during aperitivo hours.

Final Thoughts

Rome’s rooftop terraces offer more than just a drink—they provide a sensory journey through the city’s colors, architecture, and atmosphere. Whether you choose a luxury hotel rooftop or a hidden neighborhood gem, an aperitivo at sunset is a moment where time slows and the Eternal City feels like it’s yours alone.

paris by bike

Paris by Bike: Scenic Cycling Routes with a View

Exploring Paris by bike is one of the most enjoyable and efficient ways to discover the city’s landmarks, neighborhoods, and scenic viewpoints. With an extensive network of bike lanes and plenty of car-free zones, the French capital is increasingly bike-friendly—ideal for travelers who want to see more, move freely, and take in unforgettable views.
For the most enriching experience, consider joining one of our guided Paris tours.

The Seine River Trail: Classic Views and Monuments

The bike route along the Seine River is one of the most iconic and relaxing in Paris. Ride along the Voies sur Berge, a traffic-free promenade running on both banks of the river.

Key highlights along this route include:

  • The Eiffel Tower, with plenty of stops for photos at Trocadéro or Champ de Mars
  • Pont Alexandre III, a masterpiece of Beaux-Arts architecture
  • The Louvre, which you can view from the right bank while cycling towards the center
  • The historic Île de la Cité, with views of Notre-Dame Cathedral

The flat terrain and wide cycling paths make this ideal for all levels, including families.

From the Eiffel Tower to the Bois de Boulogne

Looking for greenery? Start at the Eiffel Tower and follow bike-friendly avenues west to the Bois de Boulogne, Paris’s vast western park.

Once inside the park, you’ll find:

  • Quiet lakeside paths
  • Tree-lined alleys and open meadows
  • Bike rentals for tandems or e-bikes
  • The Fondation Louis Vuitton, a striking modern museum worth a visit

It’s an ideal route for a half-day escape, blending urban elegance with nature.

The Canal Saint-Martin Loop

For a more local and trendy atmosphere, head northeast to the Canal Saint-Martin, a neighborhood known for its indie shops, cafés, and relaxed charm.

The canal path includes:

  • Iron footbridges and tree-shaded cycling lanes
  • Picturesque locks and vintage warehouses
  • Great places to stop for coffee, picnic, or people-watching

Continue north to reach Parc de la Villette, a cultural park with science museums, art installations, and summer open-air events—perfect for a full afternoon on two wheels.

The Marais to Bastille and Coulée Verte

Begin in the Marais, with its medieval streets and lively squares, then bike east toward Place de la Bastille, from where you can join the Coulée Verte René-Dumont—an elevated greenway built on an old railway line.

This peaceful route features:

  • Lush gardens and panoramic urban views
  • Unique perspectives of Parisian rooftops
  • A gentle incline, perfect for e-bikes or moderate cyclists

It’s a hidden gem for travelers who want to combine cycling with a nature-inspired stroll above the city streets.

Montmartre (For the Ambitious Cyclist)

Cycling up Montmartre is a challenge, but the reward is worth it. Start your ascent near Rue Lepic or Rue Caulaincourt, using your gears wisely.

Once at the top, you’ll find:

  • Panoramic views from Square Louise Michel and Sacré-Cœur
  • Quiet residential streets like Rue de l’Abreuvoir
  • Artistic history at every turn—this is where Picasso, Modigliani, and Renoir once lived

Tip: If the climb is too much, walk your bike part of the way and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

Practical Tips for Biking in Paris

  • Use Vélib’: Paris’s public bike-sharing system is affordable and widespread, with electric options for longer routes or uphill rides.
  • Avoid rush hour: Weekday mornings and evenings can be hectic—aim for late mornings or early afternoons for a relaxed ride.
  • Helmet optional, but recommended: Not mandatory for adults, but advised, especially for navigating busier streets.
  • Respect pedestrian zones: Many scenic areas require walking your bike—signage will guide you.

Final Thoughts

Cycling through Paris is more than just transportation—it’s a way to experience the rhythm of the city, from sunrise reflections on the Seine to sunset views from Montmartre. Whether you choose a curated tour or ride solo with a map, the city on two wheels offers a fresh, dynamic, and immersive perspective. Paris is not just meant to be seen—it’s meant to be felt, and a bike is the perfect way to do it.

redentore festival venice

Venice’s Redentore Festival: Origins, Traditions, and How to Experience It

Among Venice’s many traditions, the Festa del Redentore stands out as a powerful blend of religious devotion, communal spirit, and spectacular celebration. Held every third weekend of July, it’s a deeply rooted event that commemorates the end of a devastating plague, while bringing the city together in a vibrant and moving summer ritual.
For a front-row seat to the festivities, consider one of our Venice tours.

Origins: A Plague, a Promise, and a Church

The Festa del Redentore dates back to 1577, when Venice was emerging from a terrible outbreak of the plague that had killed over 50,000 people—nearly a third of the city’s population.

To thank God for deliverance, the Venetian Senate commissioned the construction of a church dedicated to the Redeemer (Il Redentore), designed by Andrea Palladio, one of the great architects of the Renaissance. The basilica was built on Giudecca Island, and every year since, the city has honored that vow with a celebration of faith and remembrance.

The Floating Bridge: A Temporary Pilgrimage

One of the most iconic elements of the Festa del Redentore is the construction of a floating bridge made of barges that connects the Zattere area of the city to the Church of the Redentore on Giudecca Island.

The bridge is built specifically for the weekend of the festival and is open to the public from Saturday evening until Sunday night. Walking across it is a symbolic act of thanksgiving, and many locals make the crossing as a form of personal or communal devotion.

Saturday Night: Dinner on the Water and Fireworks

The highlight of the celebration is Saturday night, when Venetians gather on boats in the Bacino di San Marco and along the canals for a festive dinner under the stars.

Families and friends decorate their boats with lanterns, flowers, and flags, enjoying traditional dishes like sarde in saor, baccalà mantecato, and bigoli in salsa, accompanied by wine and music.

At 11:30 p.m., a spectacular fireworks show begins, lighting up the lagoon and skyline with color. The reflection of the fireworks over the water, with the domes and bell towers in silhouette, creates one of the most unforgettable scenes of the Venetian summer.

Sunday: Mass and Rowing Regattas

On Sunday, the focus shifts back to religious observance. A solemn mass is held at the Church of the Redentore, often attended by both city officials and pilgrims.

Later in the day, traditional regattas take place on the Giudecca Canal, featuring different types of Venetian rowing boats and showcasing local skill and heritage. The races are accompanied by cheering crowds and commentary echoing along the canal, adding to the festive atmosphere.

How to Experience the Festa del Redentore as a Visitor

  • Book in advance: If you want to dine on a boat or from a rooftop with a lagoon view, reservations should be made weeks ahead.
  • Join a guided experience: Several local operators offer Festa del Redentore tours that include boat access, guided history, and VIP seating.
  • Walk the bridge: Even if you don’t attend the main events, walking the floating bridge on Sunday is a powerful and symbolic way to take part in the tradition.
  • Stay late: Public transportation is extended on the night of the festival, so you can enjoy the fireworks and return safely.

Final Thoughts

The Festa del Redentore is more than a party—it’s a living tradition that blends Venice’s history, spirituality, and joy into one extraordinary weekend. For locals, it’s a time of remembrance and community. For visitors, it’s a rare opportunity to witness the city at its most heartfelt and authentic. If you’re in Venice in July, don’t just watch it—be part of it.

rome summer events

July Events in Rome: Festivals, Music, and Open-Air Performances

July in Rome is a celebration of summer—long evenings, warm nights, and a cultural calendar packed with music, theater, and open-air events. The Eternal City transforms into a stage, where history meets performance and art comes alive under the stars. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore more, the Roman summer offers a rich variety of experiences.
For an unforgettable stay, pair these events with our curated Rome tours, designed to show you the city’s most iconic sites and seasonal highlights.

Roma Summer Fest at Auditorium Parco della Musica

The Roma Summer Fest is one of the city’s most important music festivals, held at the Cavea—an impressive open-air concert space inside the Auditorium Parco della Musica.

The lineup includes international stars and Italian legends in genres ranging from classical and jazz to indie rock and pop. Past performers have included artists like Sting, Paolo Conte, and Ludovico Einaudi.

The venue’s acoustics and architecture make every show memorable, especially under the Roman night sky.

Estate Romana: A City-Wide Cultural Celebration

Since the 1970s, the Estate Romana has been Rome’s signature summer program, featuring hundreds of cultural events spread across the city.

Expect:

  • Outdoor cinema nights in historic courtyards and parks
  • Contemporary theater and poetry readings along the Tiber
  • Concerts in gardens, piazzas, and Roman ruins
  • Art installations and immersive exhibitions

The full calendar includes both free and ticketed events, giving every visitor a chance to experience Rome like a local.

Trastevere and Local Neighborhood Festivals

July is also the time for rioni (neighborhoods) to celebrate with their own sagre and street festivals. In Trastevere, the Festa de’ Noantri begins in the second half of the month and continues into early August.

This centuries-old celebration includes:

  • A religious procession honoring Our Lady of Mount Carmel
  • Live music in the streets
  • Traditional Roman food stalls
  • Fireworks and riverside celebrations

It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Rome’s folk traditions while enjoying a festive summer atmosphere.

Cinema in Piazza: Free Films Under the Stars

Every July, Il Cinema in Piazza screens classic and contemporary films in open-air settings across the city, including:

  • Piazza San Cosimato in Trastevere
  • Porto Turistico di Ostia
  • Parco della Cervelletta in the eastern suburbs

The screenings are free, often in original language with Italian subtitles, and include director talks and special appearances. Bring a blanket and enjoy cinema under the Roman sky.

Theatre and Opera at Ancient Sites

Rome’s ancient ruins become stages in summer. Don’t miss:

  • Opera at the Baths of Caracalla: A stunning setting for opera and ballet, organized by the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma.
  • Classical theatre at Teatro di Ostia Antica: Ancient drama and contemporary performances in a perfectly preserved Roman amphitheater.

These unique venues create unforgettable experiences where culture and archaeology merge.

Night Openings and Special Exhibitions

Several major sites and museums offer extended evening hours or special events in July:

  • Colosseum by night tours with atmospheric lighting and fewer crowds
  • Vatican Museums Friday night openings, featuring music and guided visits
  • Temporary art exhibitions in spaces like Chiostro del Bramante and Palazzo delle Esposizioni

These are ideal for those who want to escape the heat and explore Rome’s cultural scene in the cooler evening hours.

Final Thoughts

July is one of the most dynamic times to visit Rome. The city opens up to the night with a cultural energy that blends ancient backdrops and modern performances. Whether you’re drawn to music, film, food, or tradition, Rome offers a summer experience that’s both unforgettable and uniquely Roman. Plan ahead, follow the sounds of the city, and let its timeless magic guide your summer evenings.

florentine authentic handicrafts

Florentine Handicrafts: Where to Find Authentic Artisan Products in Florence

Florence is not only the cradle of the Renaissance but also a city where centuries-old artisan traditions are still alive. From leather workshops to goldsmiths, marbled paper makers to ceramics, authentic Florentine craftsmanship reflects the city’s history, elegance, and attention to detail.
For a deeper experience of Florence’s, explore our range of Florence tours, where local experts guide you through workshops and hidden ateliers.

Florentine Leather: Santa Croce and Oltrarno Districts

Florence is renowned worldwide for its high-quality leather goods, and the best place to find them is in the Santa Croce area. Here, small boutiques and family-run workshops produce everything from handmade bags to wallets, belts, and jackets.

Many of these workshops still use traditional tanning techniques and source leather locally. Look for shops offering certificates of authenticity, ensuring you purchase genuine Florentine craftsmanship.

In Oltrarno, across the Arno River, you’ll also find master artisans crafting leather goods away from the tourist crowds. This district is ideal for discovering more exclusive, bespoke pieces.

Gold and Jewelry on the Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio has been home to goldsmiths and jewelers since the 16th century. Today, it remains the go-to place for handcrafted gold jewelry, from delicate earrings to intricate necklaces and rings.

While prices can vary, many workshops along the bridge and nearby streets still produce custom, handmade pieces that reflect the city’s artistic legacy.

For a more exclusive experience, visit small goldsmith ateliers in Borgo Santi Apostoli or Via dei Neri, where tradition meets fine Italian design.

Marbled Paper and Stationery

Florence is famous for its marbled paper, an art form dating back to the Renaissance. Using floating paints and delicate techniques, artisans create unique patterns on paper used for notebooks, albums, and decorative items.

Shops like Il Papiro offer high-quality marbled paper, along with calligraphy sets, wax seals, and handmade stationery, ideal for authentic souvenirs or gifts.

Handmade Ceramics and Pottery

Tuscan ceramics are known for their beauty and craftsmanship, and Florence offers plenty of places to find authentic, hand-painted pieces.

In the Oltrarno area and near Piazza Santo Spirito, you’ll find workshops producing ceramic plates, vases, and decorative items with traditional Florentine or Tuscan motifs.

These pieces often feature vibrant colors, Renaissance-inspired patterns, and meticulous attention to detail—perfect for bringing a piece of Florence home.

Artisan Markets: Where Tradition Meets Everyday Life

To discover a wide variety of handmade products in one place, visit Florence’s artisan markets:

  • Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio: A mix of food, vintage items, and handmade crafts in a lively, local atmosphere.
  • Piazza Santo Spirito Market: Held monthly, this market features ceramics, jewelry, clothing, and unique artisan goods.
  • Mercato delle Pulci (Flea Market): Located near Piazza dei Ciompi, ideal for vintage finds and occasional handcrafted pieces.

Markets provide an excellent opportunity to meet artisans, learn about their work, and purchase one-of-a-kind items.

Final Thoughts

Florentine craftsmanship is more than just souvenirs—it’s a living tradition that embodies the city’s artistic soul. Whether you’re shopping for leather, jewelry, paper goods, or ceramics, choosing authentic, handmade products means supporting the heritage of Florence and bringing home a piece of its history. Take your time to explore workshops, talk to artisans, and discover the enduring beauty of true Florentine artistry.