“We’re Going to Italy this Summer!”
No other phrase may be quite as envy-inducing. Whether you’re pining to go to Italy for the first time, or are gearing up for your umpteenth trip back, it seems there is always something new and exciting to savor in Italy. Here are some – from summer vacation ideas – from the Lake Como in the north, to coastal Portofino, to the wine regions of Tuscany – find inspiration for this summer’s trip to Italy with friends or family.
ITALY’s LAKES REGION
Lake Como
Panoramic view of Lago di Como in Northern Italy and the beautiful village of Varenna at sunset
Fly to Milan and spend two nights in town (the Bulgari or the Mandarin Oriental are great options), exploring the Duomo,the city’s fashion, and the requisite risotto. Take the 1 hour train or drive north to dazzling Lake Como. This narrow, thirty mile long lake is the reason to visit to region, with its vintage motor boats roaming the calm waters. Play tennis on the clay courts, bicycle through town, and savor the cypress trees and scents of jasmine in the air. READ MORE >
Vacation on the water front at Villa BRV CIR, 3BR, Lake Como
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Soak up the sun at Villa BRV ADR, 4BR, Lake Como
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TIP: In September, you’ll beat the crowds plus still enjoy the warmth of the lake.
COASTAL ITALY
Portofino
Beautiful view of Portofino, Liguria, Italy
If you’re eager to see Tuscany, but also wish to experience the Italian coast, add Portofino to your itinerary. It’s easy to spend days walking the coast (including walking tours), but most enjoy days out on the water. Indulge in a day trip on a vintage boat, taking dips in the sea in between sips of white wine. Restaurants here specialize in coastal cuisine, like fritto misto and sea bream. SEE MORE >
Scenic views from Villa HII TIG, 4BR, Liguria
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Dining al fresco at Villa BRV BAR, 5BR, Portofino Town
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TIP: Villas in Italy traditionally rent from Saturday to Saturday. If you’re attending a destination wedding in the area, they are a great way to continue the fun with a group of friends or family.
SOUTHERN TUSCANY
Wine Regions of Chianti, Montalcino and Montepulciano.
Montalcino countryside, vineyard, cypress trees and green fields. Tuscany, Italy Europe.
For those who love back-country road trips, spontaneous exploration, and stumbling upon treasures, the inland area of Tuscany is a dream. There are historic villages to visit, wineries to have tastings at, hilltowns to explore on foot and so much more. Because villas here are often set amongst vast swaths of of vineyards or fields, they have extraordinary privacy. Start your trip in Florence and head south, or fly to Rome and drive North – no matter which route you take, you’ll find treats around every corner – from small restaurants with local delicacies to wine tastings in historic farm houses. SEE MORE >
Vineyard views at Villa HII LNB, 5BR, Cetona/Siena
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Back-country relaxation at Villa SAL FON, 4BR, Montalcino
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TIP: If you prefer a villa with a cook or live-in housekeeper, you’ll enjoy Tuscan villas.
Interested in more Italian adventures? Travel to the coast of Capri and read about the variety of restaurants offered with a water front view: The Complete Guide to Capri Part I
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