Archive for 'Northeast Italy'

Murano glass is one of the most famous craft products in the world and is an artisanal glass that has been made on the Venetian island of Murano for centuries. The artisans of Murano were world leaders in innovation and design and created some of the most stunning glass objects that the world has ever seen. Today, they are still employing these centuries-old techniques and making all sorts of things from works of art, to trinkets, to household objects. These pieces are characteristic souvenirs for tourists visiting the city and there are are a number of factories and some individual artists' studios at work on the island to this day.

The Republic of San Marino is an impossibly beautiful little country that is located in Italy, on the border between Le Marche and Emilia Romagna. At Christmas, the country, and its capital (also named San Marino), in particular, is especially stunning.

In the last article, we discussed how the beautiful capital becomes even more lovely during the festive season through the initiatives of a project called The Christmas of Wonders. This involves decorating one street in knitted decorations, another in candles and lanterns and lighting streets all over with projections and light effects on the historic buildings of the old town centre. Musical performances and theatrical presentations by buskers only heighten this lovely Christmas atmosphere. However, this is not all there is to be seen. There are plenty of other activities and things to see and do. Just find a vacation rental in Le Marche or a vacation rental in Emilia Romagna make a day trip (or maybe two) to this incredible little land to experience it all for yourself!

The Republic of San Marino is a tiny country located in Italy that is just over 61 square kilometres in size and has a population of approximately 32,000 people. Located on the border between Le Marche and Emilia Romagna, it is the third smallest country in Europe with only the State of Vatican City in Latium, Italy and the State of Monaco in France being smaller. In 2008, it was officially recognised for its unique charms, historical and cultural value, and scenic beauty and was added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites.

At Christmas, this pretty and historic little country is even more beautiful and full of things to see and do. Why not come and experience San Marino's unique appeal for yourself this festive season for something a little different? Just find a vacation rental in Le Marche or a vacation rental in Emilia Romagna make a day trip (or maybe two) to this incredible little land.

Another lovely Italian Christmas market tradition exists in the Alpine town of Bolzano in Trentino Alto Adige. Set against the Rosengarten Dolomites, it is a beautiful medieval settlement made up of romantic arcaded streets and picturesque squares.

It boasts two markets each Christmas, one of the biggest markets and also one of the oldest markets in the country.

White Christmasses aren't a common-place thing in Italy, as a general rule, but this Alpine setting means you'll get that snowy, atmospheric setting, perfect for, not just one, but two Christmas markets. For the ultimate Christmas market experience in Italy, find a vacation rental in Trentino or a vacation rental in Veneto and visit this lovely town for the day.

Passo Tonale is a great, budget-(and beginner)-friendly ski resort in Italy located on a high mountain pass that links the regions of Trentino and Lombardy.

Its location means that you can find a vacation rental in Trentino or a vacation rental in Lombardy, giving you more options to choose from and the wiggle room to find the perfect villa from which to base yourself as you enjoy the winter sports that Italy has to offer. It's the best of both worlds!

The village is located at the foot of the slopes with a gondola, that was installed in 2015, and an efficient lift system that makes the glacier more readily accessible. These go from Passo Paradiso to the slopes of Passo Presena, which are mainly suited to beginners and intermediate skiiers, and also link the town to the slopes of Ponte di Legno and Temù, which offer something more interesting for more advanced skiers.