Italy: Unique Spots and Adventures

Yes, we actually stayed in a treehouse! Staying at Fattorie di Celli in Tuscany was a dream. You'll find yourself in a complex surrounded by greenery, with the chance to have an unforgettable stay with all the space and privacy you could wish for. The setting is serene, and the experience is unlike any other. Perfect for creating lasting memories. It's a truly magical place and we can't recommend it enough.

Canoeing at Diga di Ridracoli was such a peaceful way to experience nature. The reservoir is huge, and paddling through the calm waters surrounded by the mountains felt like an escape from everything. The water was crystal clear, and we even spotted a few fish swimming beneath us. It’s perfect for a slow-paced day outdoors, and the views of the dam were incredible. If you’re into nature and water activities, this spot is a gem.

We didn’t expect to spend hours at the aquarium, but there was just so much to see. The tanks are massive and you can get surprisingly close to the sharks and dolphins. It is one of those places that is fun for both kids and adults. The jellyfish exhibit was our favourite and felt like stepping into another world. If you are in Genova, this is a great spot to spend a few hours.

This sandwich shop, famous for its schiacciata, a type of Italian flatbread, serves up some of the tastiest sandwiches we have ever had. The line can be long, but the payoff is absolutely worth it. We tried the La Dante, packed with capocollo, stracchino, and truffle cream, and the flavors were out of this world. Another standout was the La Inferno, with roast pork, spicy eggplant, and rocket, a perfect mix of heat and freshness. This spot is a must-visit for any foodie. Just make sure you arrive hungry because the sandwiches are massive.

Sgrano in Florence turned out to be a real gem, especially for gluten-free food lovers. Located near the city centre, their menu is fully gluten-free and they have mastered the art of it. We tried the gluten-free schiacciata, an Italian flatbread sandwich filled with fresh ingredients, and it was delicious. The pizza was just as good, with a crispy base that tasted as authentic as any traditional dough. We also tried their gnocchi and were impressed by how light and flavorful it was, even without gluten. The staff were friendly and made sure we had everything we needed.

Lake Braies is easily one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever seen. The clear turquoise water, surrounded by huge mountains, is unreal. There’s a trail around the lake that’s pretty easy to walk, and it took us about an hour, with lots of stops for photos. We also rented a boat, which gave us an even better view of the lake and the incredible scenery. If you go early in the morning, you can avoid the crowds and really enjoy the peace and quiet. It’s a must-visit if you’re in the Dolomites!

Staying at Feudo Frammasi was incredibly peaceful. Surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, the whole place felt calm and relaxing. The rooms had the perfect mix of rustic charm and elegance, making us feel at home from the moment we arrived. The food was fantastic, with most ingredients either locally sourced or grown right on the property. Every meal felt like a true taste of Sicily. Our hosts were friendly and offered great tips for exploring the area. It’s the perfect place to slow down and soak in the beauty of the Sicilian countryside.

The cloister at Santa Chiara is a peaceful escape with stunning majolica tiles on every column and bench. Each tile tells a story, adding bursts of color to the otherwise simple architecture. We loved walking through the citrus-filled courtyard and soaking in the quiet. The museum added depth to the visit, especially with artifacts from WWII. Discovering the old thermal baths was an unexpected bonus. Definitely worth taking your time here.

If you’re into nature, visiting Mount Vesuvius is a must. The views from the top are incredible, and there are little stalls along the way where you can grab a drink or a souvenir. The path to the crater was a bit steep, but the view of Naples and the Bay made it totally worth it. As we got higher, the landscape became more barren, and standing at the edge of the crater was surreal. Seeing the steam rise from inside gave us a real feeling of how powerful nature can be. It’s something you don’t forget easily.

We love a good wine tasting, and this one at Farm Lands of the Marquis didn’t disappoint. The tour took us through the vineyard, and the guide explained how they produce their wine from start to finish. The tasting itself was generous, with a variety of reds and whites, and we even got to try some homemade olive oil. It’s a great experience for anyone who enjoys learning about wine-making and tasting some of the best Tuscany has to offer.

This place is huge, and we spent hours exploring the ancient Greek temples. The most impressive one for us was the Temple of Concordia. It's super well-preserved and looks amazing against the Sicilian countryside. The path through the valley is easy to follow, with signs explaining the history of each temple. There are olive trees scattered around, making it a cool mix of history and nature. If you can, visit around sunset. The golden light makes the temples glow. It’s a must-see if you’re into history and archaeology.

Visiting the Roman Forum was an experience we won’t forget. Walking through the ruins, it was incredible to stand in the same places where Roman history unfolded. The spot where Julius Caesar was cremated still draws visitors, leaving flowers as a tribute. Seeing remnants like the Temple of Vesta and the Curia, where senators once gathered, made us feel connected to the past in a way that’s hard to describe. It wasn’t just about seeing old stones, it was about feeling the stories that shaped an empire.

Also known as the "dying city," Bagnoregio is one of the most unique places we’ve ever been to. You can only get there by walking across a narrow pedestrian bridge, and the whole town feels like something out of a fantasy book. It’s small, but the views from the edge are amazing, with a dramatic canyon all around. The town is slowly eroding because it’s built on soft volcanic rock, which gives it this eerie, forgotten vibe. We spent a couple of hours wandering the tiny alleys and courtyards, snapping photos along the way. It’s one of those places you just have to see to believe, and it’s something we won’t forget anytime soon.

Climbing the Torre dei Lamberti was definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Verona. The tower stands 84 meters tall, and after a quick elevator ride and a few steps, we were at the top. The view over the city was amazing and you can see Verona’s red rooftops stretching out in every direction. The tower’s clock and the big bell, El Rengo, add a nice historical touch. We spent a lot of time just enjoying the 360-degree views, spotting famous spots like Juliet's Balcony and the Arena di Verona. The entry fee was totally reasonable, and it’s worth it for the best view in the city.

This restaurant is located in a beautiful part of town and has a warm, inviting vibe that made us feel right at home. The menu offers a great mix of traditional and modern Italian dishes with a real focus on quality ingredients. We started with the fiori di zucca stuffed with ricotta, which were fresh and flavorful. Then we had the ravioli filled with duck, rich, tender and perfectly balanced. The roast pork (maialino) was another standout, cooked to perfection with a crispy exterior and juicy inside. The staff was attentive and explained the dishes with care. We will definitely come back.

Exploring Mount Etna was like stepping into another world. The landscape is wild and rugged, and seeing an active volcano up close is something we’ll never forget. The tour guide was super knowledgeable and explained the history and geology of the area as we hiked. We were lucky with the weather, so the views from the top were amazing. If you’re in Sicily, an Etna tour is a must, as there’s really nothing else like it.

This quiet medieval village, sitting high on a hill, offers incredible views of the valleys below. The highlight for us was visiting the Rocca di Montefiore, an impressive fortress that dominates the town’s skyline. Walking through its historic rooms and climbing to the top of the tower gave us a real sense of its medieval significance. Afterward, we wandered the narrow streets and stopped for lunch at a small, local eatery. The whole experience felt like discovering a hidden gem, perfect for those who love history.

Our visit to Gino Sorbillo Lievito Madre al Mare was all about the pizza and the view. Set right on the waterfront, we enjoyed our meal with the sea as our backdrop. The pizza really stands out with its classic Neapolitan style and perfectly charred crust. We went for the margherita, and it was exactly what we hoped for. Simple and fresh ingredients with that distinct wood-fired flavor. The staff was friendly, but it does get busy, which makes sense given how popular it is.

Our evening at Quimèrico in Cervia was truly special. Located right on the waterfront, the atmosphere was relaxed yet elegant with a Mediterranean vibe that felt fresh and inviting. We sat outside enjoying the seaside breeze while browsing their carefully curated menu. The food blends Italian and Spanish influences. We started with their tapas which were perfect for sharing. The red shrimp tartare and tuna carpaccio were fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. For our main, we chose the tagliolini with shrimp and bottarga which was bursting with flavor and perfectly cooked. To finish, we indulged in homemade gelato, the perfect end to a fantastic meal.

Even if you’re not an art lover, the Vatican Museums are a must. We spent hours walking through endless corridors packed with masterpieces from Raphael, Caravaggio, Leonardo da Vinci, and more. The Sistine Chapel was definitely the highlight, standing under Michelangelo’s frescoes was something we’ll never forget. The level of detail was just incredible. We also really enjoyed the Gallery of Maps and the Raphael Rooms, which were just as impressive. It’s a huge museum, so definitely plan to spend the whole day there. A guided tour is a good idea if you want to get the full story behind the artworks.

Known for its creative sushi combinations, this spot goes beyond the typical salmon and avocado rolls. The menu offers a mix of traditional favorites and more unique options, like the Special Dragon Roll with seared salmon, avocado, and a house sauce, or the Special Rainbow Roll, which features a colorful mix of salmon, tuna, sea bass, and unagi. We particularly enjoyed the nigiri mix, with fresh salmon and yellowfin tuna, and the tempura rolls, which were crispy on the outside and perfectly balanced inside. Whether you're looking for classic sushi or something a bit different, Sushi King delivers quality in every dish.

One of Rome’s most famous landmarks, the Colosseum, has been standing for nearly 2,000 years. We joined a guided tour that really brought the history of this ancient amphitheater to life, covering everything from gladiator fights to public events. We also went up to the upper levels, where you get fantastic views of the Roman Forum and the city. If you love history, this is a must-see in Rome. It’s a place that truly connects you to the city’s ancient past.

If you want to feel like you are in a movie, you need to visit the rolling fields of Val D'Orcia. These golden hills look like something straight out of a painting, and some scenes from Gladiator were filmed here. It is the perfect place for a scenic drive or a relaxing day exploring one of Tuscany’s most beautiful landscapes.

Dharma Boutique Hotel & SPA felt like our little escape in the middle of Rome. After a full day of exploring the city's busy streets and historic landmarks, relaxing in the spa was exactly what we needed. The rooms were modern and cozy, with thoughtful details that made the stay feel extra special. The rooftop terrace was a favorite, especially at sunset with those city views. The staff was super friendly and always had great recommendations for places to eat and things to do. It struck the perfect balance between the energy of Rome and a calm retreat.

This small temple in a cave in Ancona feels like something out of a fantasy novel. The Tempio del Valadier is tucked away inside a cave. The hike up to it, though short, is very peaceful. Once you reach the temple, it feels almost surreal. It is a beautiful neoclassical building set in the middle of nature. It is a little off the beaten path but definitely worth the trip if you enjoy unique historical spots.

Diga di Ridracoli is an awesome spot where engineering meets nature, perfect for outdoor lovers. We didn’t try the boat ride on the lake, but we walked the trail around it, and the views were stunning. The way the water shifts from deep blue to emerald green is something you’ve got to see. There are three hiking routes, from easy to more challenging, so you can choose depending on your energy level. We’ll definitely be going back!

We had the joy of picking our own tulips straight from the field at this beautiful farm, and the best part is that you can take them home with the bulb still attached, so you can replant them after a few days. After the excitement of picking flowers, you can enjoy a snack or appetizer in the relaxing area. It's a wonderful experience that the whole family can enjoy.