Archive for 'December'

Rome may be home to the Pope and the centre of Catholicism but it is also the capital of Italy and a major urban area. As a result, there are plenty of people of all sorts of faiths in the city and, in particular, the city is home to one of the world’s oldest Jewish populations who have remained despite the various efforts to force them out throughout history, so if you were considering spending the Holidays in Italy then you might be glad to know that it is not only a wonderful place for those who celebrate Christmas, with all sorts Christmas-themed things to see and do, but it is also a wonderful place to spend Hanukkah. While the general cheer and excitement of lights, markets, good food, and shopping can be enjoyed universally and make a vacation in Rome all the more wonderful, picturesque, and enjoyable during the winter, there are also specific events and attractions pertaining to those who are of the Jewish faith that will make a trip in the city at this time all the more memorable and meaningful. So, if you want to do something different for Hanukkah this year but don’t want to miss out on tradition, then Rome really is a perfect place to spend the Holidays in Italy. Here are some of the main things to keep an eye out for...

If you have always wanted to visit Rome, we recommend a visit over Christmas. Not only is the city lit up, decorated, and full of festive cheer and activity at this time of the year but it is also a great time for tourists as there tends to be smaller tourist crowds to contend with. While things close on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, the days either side of the holidays are when Rome is at its least hectic. As a tourist destination where you will always have to contend with crowds of some description, it is a real bonus to get it at its best and least insane. So, if you have always wished to see the Eternal City for yourself, browse our vacation rentals in Rome and get planning the Christmas getaway in Rome of your dreams!

Christmas markets have quickly become one of the most desirable travel experiences out there. They have existed in some parts of the world for centuries but, in the last few years, many are making family and personal traditions of going and getting in the Christmas spirit at a highly atmospheric and seasonal Christmas market before the chaos of the season well and truly kicks in.

There are some destinations that are famous for their Christmas markets with the Germanic examples being seen as the optimal experience. However, don’t immediately dismiss and look past other Christmas market destinations around Europe, which also have lots to offer by way of fun and festivity. One destination that many don’t think of is Italy but this is a mistake as Italian Christmas markets perfectly combine delicious treats, amazing handmade gifts and souvenirs, and the prettiest of surroundings from hilltop Tuscan villages, to Alpine towns, to some of the world’s most beautiful cities.

Among these, lovely Venice is actually quite the hidden gem, boasting lots of excellent markets to choose from and the most incredibly picturesque setting. Just find a vacation rental in Venice today and get planning a quick pre-festivities getaway to come explore these various Christmas markets this winter!

Florence is undeniably lovely and beautiful no matter what time of year you visit but it is especially charming at Christmas, when it is filled with excitable shoppers dashing around, cheerful traditional Christmas markets, bright and pretty, seasonal displays in storefronts, festive cheer, and, of course, Christmas lights. However, if you have found a luxury villa in Florence and are planning a Christmas getaway in Florence, you might be glad to know that the city goes a step further with their lighting arrangements to make something extra special and even more magical over the Holiday Season: the Florence Light Festival, or F-Light Festival.