Things to See and Do in Italy

One of the most-anticipated movie events of this summer is, without a doubt, Christopher Nolan’s star-studded adaptation of The Odyssey. With those who have seen the film already raving about the stunning visuals and incredible locations, many will be hoping to take in some of the scenery with their own eyes. While filmed across multiple countries and many beautiful landscapes, one of the most striking and key locations can be found in Sicily. So, if you want to enjoy a (less stressful and less lengthy) Odyssey of your own, here’s what you need to know about The Odyssey filming locations in Italy...

Book an amazing villa in Sicily with us and you’ll already have a wealth of stunning things to see, do, and eat in this most cinematic of destinations. In fact, film and television buffs, in particular, will be delighted with the list of major filming locations that they have to to take. As it stands, classics and critical darlings like The Godfather, Cinema Paradiso, L’Avventura, The White Lotus Season 2, The Leopard, Hannibal, The Big Blue, and more have been shot across the island. Add to this some key sea scenes and more from The Odyssey and there is a whole tour to be taken of the island...

Continuing our new series of identifying the best and most unique bucket list items to add to your Italian itinerary in addition to the more traditional examples that many will note – the Uffizi, Milan's iconic Cathedral, Vatican City, and more – we have another gem that we think you should make a point to see if you are booking a vacation rental in Rome: the sculptor Bernini's magical and mind-blowing ability to turn marble into flesh.

This incredibly gifted 17th century sculptor and architect left a huge stamp on Vatican City with his designs for St Peter's and his multiple sculptures that are famous for their extraordinary optical illusions and immense skill. He managed to act out full scenes with his sculpted figures through their expressive faces and the changing perspectives viewers were offered as they walked around a piece. However, Bernini's greatest feat might perhaps be on display in his piece, the Abduction of Proserpina.

Dreaming of a perfect vacation in Italy? Well, why not allow our guests to help you find a dream villa in Italy by browsing recent rentals that received 5-star reviews? 

From luxury villas in Apulia to villas with pools in Tuscany, these gems are all charming properties with amazing amenities that have something extra special to offer. Here’s what makes them stand out from the crowd...

Those who book a villa in Milan will likely already have a visit to the city’s famed cathedral on their itinerary but if you are planning on taking in this iconic landmark and architectural gem, might we suggest heading there on a summer evening this year? If so, you’ll get to experience the most magical event in Milan and the must-see attraction in Milan in 2026...

Serate d’Incanto takes place on the Duomo Terraces each Thursday from the 11th of June to the 10th of September 2026 and is a summer programme of musical events that are being held to allow guests to appreciate the building and the skyline while enjoying an elegant evening of classical music in Milan.

If you've been dreaming of the wild natural beauty, pretty seaside resorts, incredible beaches, rich history, and delicious culinary delights on offer during a vacation in Sicily but you also want to do it in serious style, then Villa Pozzillo is an ideal fit. This stunning luxury property in Sicily not only boasts lovely interiors, a private pool, manicured garden, and plenty of excellent amenities but it is directly overlooking the glittering and impossibly blue Ionian Sea and has its own direct access to the strand. For a perfectly relaxing vacation full of sea swims, dinners al fresco, and adventures, this charming, luxurious, and ideally-located villa sleeps up to eight guests in four en suite bedrooms.