Your Italian Escape Awaits

Are you dreaming of a trip to Italy, but want to escape the well-trodden tourist trails? Rome's Colosseum, Florence's Dome and Venice's canals are breathtaking, but Italy has so much more to offer betond the usual sights. If you're craving a genuine taste of la dolce vita away from the crowds and selfie sticks, get ready to add these three incrdible destinations to your itinerary.

Siracusa

First, let's head south and explore the stunning landscapes of Sicily. Start your journey in Syracuse (Siracusa) exploring the streets of Ortigia, a small island connected by bridge. Here you'll discover ancient temples, a bustling open-air market and the freshest seafood you've ever seen. Don't miss the chance to see the ancient Greek theater and the Roman ampitheater. Then, for a dose of natural wonder, take a trip to Mount Etna. For an exhilarating experience, hike on Europe's most active volcano with lunar-like landscapes and breathtaking endless views of Sicily.

Sirmione

Next, we're heading north to the breathtaking beauty of Lake Garda, and more specifically, to the enchanting town of Sirmione. This gem sits on the tip of a narrow peninsula into the southern end of the largest lake in Italy. The entrance to the old town is guarded by the magnificent Scagliero Castle, a 13th century fortress rising dramatically from the water. Once you cross the drawbridge you'll find a charming maze of cobblestone streets filled with restaurants, cafes, gelaterias and artisinal shops. Don't forget your swimsuit as just below the caastle ruins you will find Jamaica Beach, a unique shore with the clearest lake-water.

Santa Margherita

Finally, we head to the spectacular Ligurian coast to visit the elegant seaside town of Santa Margherita Ligure. While many flock to the nearby Cinque Terre and glamarous Portofino, Santa Margherita offers a more relaxed and authentic glimpse of life on the Italian Riviera. This beautiful town boasts a lively harbour filled with fishing boats and luxury yachts on their way to Portofino harbour. A beautiful seaside promenade and clusters of vibrant, pastel-coloured buildings hug the shoreline. Santa Margherita is an ideal base to explore this elegant region. From here you can take a scenic ferry ride to Portofino or easily take a train to explore the villages of the Cinque Terre without having to stay there amidst the crowds.

So there you have it! Three incredible destinations that offer a different, more intimate, and equally magical side of Italy. Ditch the guidebooks and the predicatble routes, and go discover the hidden gems that are just waiting to be explored!