Leslie Livingston 
Looking for a truly unique and authentic cultural experience in Italy? Consider attending the Palio of Siena. The Palio is one of the world’s most exciting and theatrical events.It’s a chaotic medieval-style horserace that takes place twice a year in the Piazza del Campo, Siena’s famous central square. It’s a stirring tableaux that brings the … Read more
Here’s my complete guide to the Basilica of San Lorenzo in Florence Italy. I tell you everything to see inside and give you must know tips for visiting and getting tickets. The San Lorenzo complex is vast. It includes the basilica itself, Brunelleschi’s Old Sacristy, the Medici Chapels, the Medici Crypt, and the Laurentian Library. … Read more
Casa Vasari is an utterly charming small house museum in Arezzo. If you love Renaissance art, you must put this lovely hidden gem on your Tuscany itinerary. Casa Vasari was the exquisite home of the famous Giorgio Vasari. Vasari was a painter, architect, connoisseur, and author during the late Renaissance. He’s best known as the … Read more
Of all the stunning hill towns in Italy, Civita di Bagnoregio may be the most dreamy and surreal. Because of its unique topography and fantastical setting, the town is frozen in time and has escaped modernity. The word “fairytale” is often overused when describing villages. But in this case, it’s entirely apt! The isolated and … Read more
Orvieto is a showstopper of a medieval hilltop town in southern Umbria. Thanks to its unique location on a volcanic tufa plateau, Orvieto has a well preserved architectural and historic heritage. The island in the sky city charms with honey-colored Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance buildings. The ancient streets are filled with flowers and ceramic shops. … Read more
The medieval town of Orvieto is perched on a plateau above a green wine- growing valley. Its piece de resistance is its magnificent cathedral, a marvel of theatricality. Begun in 1290, Orvieto Cathedral is adorned inside and out with the best Italian art on offer at the time. It’s awash in color with a riveting ensemble of … Read more
San Gimignano is a romantic glamor girl of Tuscany. It’s one of Italy’s best preserved and most beautiful medieval villages. As you stroll San Gimignano’s cobbled lanes, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine. Nicknamed the “Medieval Manhattan,” San Gimignano is famous for its “Bella Torres” or “Beautiful Towers.” The walled town known … Read more
Montepulciano is a medieval village located in southern Tuscany, famous for its velvety vino nobile red wine. However, even if you’re not a wine lover, Montepulciano is still worth a visit. The town is incredibly beautiful and is synonymous with the classic Tuscan landscape. It’s perched on a limestone ridge and surrounded by vineyards. Montepulciano … Read more
Nestled atop Mount Subasio in the picturesque region of Umbria, lies the enchanting town of Assisi, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Despite its small size, Assisi packs a punch when it comes to culture. The town is home to awe-inspiring Roman ruins, frescoed churches, charming sun-bleached piazzas, and a rugged fortress with sweeping views. The … Read more
If you’re planning your first trip to Italy, it’s essential to have some key information and tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. In this guide, I provide all the vital details you’ll need to know about visiting Italy, as well as advice on what mistakes to avoid. In addition, I’ll give you insights … Read more