Catacombs of San Gennaro, Naples
Posted in: Architectural Gems Campania Churches & Religious Buildings Curiosities Must See Attractions Southern Italy Tourist Attractions
If you have found a vacation rental in Campania and want to spend some time exploring the city of Naples, you were probably expecting to stay above ground. However, doing so would make you miss out on one of the most extraordinary attractions that the city has to offer, the Catacombs of San Gennaro. These incredible passageways are an astounding sight to behold and a must for anyone who really wants to experience all that Naples has to offer.

Located in the northern part of the city, on the slope leading up to Capodimonte, under the Rione Sanità neighbourhood of Naples, the catacombs can be readily found today by heading to the entrance at the large church of Madre del Buon Consiglio. Spread over two levels, called San Gennaro Superiore and San Gennaro Inferiore, the catacombs are often referred to as the “Valley of the Dead” and date back to the 3rd of 4th century, though are likely built over older pre-Christian burial sites.
Posted in: Apulia Curiosities Must See Attractions Southern Italy
The Jonian Dolphin Conservation is a Taranto-based marine life conservation institute and organisation that studies dolphins, whales, and more in the Ionian Sea and the Gulf of Taranto. Specialised in studying environmental impacts on marine life, how marine mammals communicate, and protecting various species, it is an extraordinary organisation doing great work. However, it is not only their work with the creatures but also their outreach program to the public and schools that make it a particularly wonderful organisation and one of the top places to visit when you are in Italy. Those interested in aquatic life can actually join the crew on day-trips and this is an incredible and truly magical experience that is a must for those who have found a vacation rental in Apulia.

You will need to book well in advance as places often fill up for the entire summer so book your holiday in Taranto today and secure your spot on an outing with the Jonian Dolphin Conservation during your stay in the area!
San Fruttuoso
Posted in: Architectural Gems Beaches Curiosities Must See Attractions Tourist Attractions
San Fruttuoso is a tiny little bay along the coastline of Liguria that is a truly magical place. It is completely tucked away, accessible only by boat or by foot, and, as a result, often goes unknown to most who have found a vacation rental in Liguria and are exploring the area. Overlooked by a beautifully preserved Benedictine monastery that is topped by a tower with a small dome and home to the hidden Christ of the Abyss, a spectacular bronze statue 15 metres under the water a few hundred metres away, it boasts two rather extraordinary attractions in a very small area.
San Marino
Posted in: Central Italy Curiosities Day Trips Emilia-Romagna Must See Attractions Northeast Italy The Marches
In the last post, we introduced the little gem that is the enclaved microstate of San Marino. Nestled between the Italian regions of Le Marche and Emilia Romagna, this impossibly pretty republic is a perfect spot for a day trip and has a surprising amount to offer visitors. Just find a vacation rental in Emilia Romagna or a villa in Rimini, in particular, or a holiday rental in Le Marche and then set aside a day to come and explore this incredible place that looks like a picture-perfect kingdom plucked right from the pages of a storybook. Aside from the stunning views and scenery, pretty streets, great food, and excellent value for money, here are even more reasons as to why it is a must-see...

6. Shop The Discounts

We noted that San Marino isn't overly expensive, in general, but it also boasts tax-free shopping, lots of great shops and boutiques to choose from, some malls, and, additionally, two outlets: San Marino Factory Outlet and Queen Outlet. Be sure to grab a bargain while you're in town!
Castle and views at San Marino
Posted in: Central Italy Curiosities Day Trips Emilia-Romagna Must See Attractions Northeast Italy The Marches
Those who have found a vacation rental in Emilia Romagna or a villa in Rimini, in particular, or a holiday rental in Le Marche should definitely try and set aside a day to spend visiting the intriguing San Marino.

The enclaved microstate of the Republic of San Marino, also known as the Most Serene Republic of San Marino, is located inside Italy, not far from the riviera of Rimini and is a fascinating little country within a country that is just 61 square kilometres in size. It is thought to be the oldest sovereign state, oldest republic in the world, and was founded in 301 AD. In addition, it is one of the least visited countries in Europe and is a really special gem with a unique history and culture of its own. Impossibly picturesque and a path less travelled, the discerning and adventurous tourist exploring the surrounding area of Italy will definitely check it out but, if you're not yet convinced, here are ten reasons to add San Marino to your bucket list...