Archive for 'Latium'

Christmas is celebrated differently in every country and each country has various different traditions that are unique and special. If you have found a vacation rental in Italy and are planning on spending the festive season there this year, then you might want to learn a little about what you can expect from an Italian Christmas. Here are five things you need to know about Christmas in Italy.

1. Santa is a Witch.

Befana is a good witch whose name comes from the Roman dialect's pronunciation of the Italian "epifania" (or Epiphany). Long ago, the three wise men stopped into Befana's house on their way to Bethlehem. She was such a nice hostess that they invited her to come with them to find the newborn Jesus. She initially declined their offer but changed her mind and packed up some toys that had belonged to her deceased child and set out after them.

The Christmas markets of Italy are not quite the famous attractions that draw people from all over the world that one finds all over the northern countries of Europe. Yet, despite this, they are lovely events that are fun for couples, groups of friends, families and solo travellers alike.

You will still find all the twinkly lights, hot drinks, delicious delicacies – both local and nordic – crafts, gifts and fun events that your heart desires at Italian Christmas markets, all with a distinct local flavour.

You can also find these markets all over the country now. In fact, you would be hard-pressed to find a town without a Christmas market at this stage. We have rounded up some of the best examples for you so read on to learn about some amazing Italian Christmas markets! Just find a vacation rental in Italy and visit them for yourself.

You are likely to be somewhat familiar with Rome and her sights: you've probably seen them on postcards and in books, magazines, films, television shows and documentaries your whole life, as have most of us. It is one of the most famous, beautiful and heavily documented cities in the entire world, with a long, rich and fascinating history.

If you have found a vacation rental in Rome and are visiting the city, there are probably many things you want to see and do and it is one of those places where even the most seasoned and cosmopolitan travellers will find themselves wanting to swing by the touristy spots.

However, if the lines and crowds grow wearisome, there are some lesser-known destinations and attractions that you might consider as well. One of these is the Aventine Keyhole.

We don't know about you but here at Easy Reserve we like to avoid the crazy tourist crowds, long lines and madness as best we can when we're on holidays. As such, we're always on the hunt for attractions that are just off the beaten track, sights that are special and a little less well-known, and adventure. In cities like Rome, for example, there are many world-famous attractions that draw people from far and wide. While some of them might be personal musts, there is a lot more to the city beyond those postcard moments.

In fact, right in the central district of Piazza Vittorio, inside the park, the remains of an old villa reveal the Porta Alchemica, the “Alchemist Door” that locals often call the “Magic Door.” This portal is famous among locals and steeped in legend but most tourists never see it and walk right on by.

Find a vacation rental in Rome and discover this hidden gem for yourself!

Our last article looked at the museum culture of Italy that is so important for tourism, is a big reason why many people visit the country and is, certainly, something people expect to experience when they visit.

However, the downside is that museums, galleries and cultural attractions can often have long lines and be extremely busy. So, for those who want to take in Italian culture but can't deal with the tourist crowds, we have compiled a list of some amazing museums around the country that have lots to offer without the madness.

The last post discussed Mantua's archaeological museum and a very special exhibition there and the Canova Museum in Possagno and this article will give you some more examples of lesser-known, but special, museums in Italy.