Archive for 'Northeast Italy'

Welcome back to our Villa Spotlight, where we look closer at one of the thousands of villas we offer. Today we look towards the Veneto, but not to Venice itself. Villa Brenzone is situated on the eastern shore of the largest lake in Italy, Lake Garda. Villa Brenzone is actually a multi-unit villa consisting of two separate apartments, which is great for a smaller group or a larger group could rent the entire villa if needed. The owners live in a third apartment connected in the Villa, which can be a godsend having them so close when trying to find out information about local hot spots or restaurants!  Multi-unit villas can offer a great value for smaller groups traveling through Italy, with many of the luxuries of a larger villa with less of a price tag per unit.

If you are looking for a city that is off the beaten path of tourists, but still has much to offer for those looking for a unique Italian experience Ferrara may be what you are looking for. While the city has uncertain origins, it has been around since at least the 8th century.

Ferrara was the seat of power for the Este family who ruled here for more than 300 years and brought much prestige to the city. Famous artists such as Petrarch, Titan, Pisanello and many poets were all brought to the city by the Este as their patrons.

After the Este fell from power in 1598 the city changed hands several times, but only to decline with the memory of their Renaissance greatness behind them. The city also fell victim to numerous assaults in World War II, but the city has worked hard to restore the city to its former splendor.  Through their hard work and respect of the past, the city is much as it was during its Renaissance heyday.  If you are interested in a vacation rental in Emilia-Romagna, we may have what you are looking for!

Venice is one of the most popular destinations in Italy and indeed Europe; it may be thronged with tourists but its worth it just to see its treasures. With a rich history of being a major sea port on the Mediterranean as well as an important crossroads on the spice trade route, Venice is one of the few places in the world that can be truly called unique.  

It is a city built across several islands and peninsulas within a lagoon and can be travelled through on boats. There are very few roads, just canals mostly that criss cross this magnificent place!

Whether you visit for the food, atmosphere, the canals, or the most masterpieces per square kilometre in the world you are all but guaranteed an amazing time in your villa rental in Venice!

Your first day in Venice should be spent at the famous Piazza San Marco.  Being Venice's largest square and major meeting area  you will find plenty to do.  It's lined with cafes that you can sit and really soak in the sights of architectural beauty surrounding the square, as well as the sun kissed glittering sea.  

If you are looking for a city to visit during your Italian vacation that your friends may have ignored, Bologna may be what you are looking for. Off the beaten tourism path generally, the capital of the famed Emilia Romagna region can offer you a plethora of food, nightlife, culture and history. A settlement has sat where current day Bologna is since the 6th century BC. Though it changed hands many times during it's history, it still stands today despite invasions by Napoleon, Lombards, Gauls, Romans and wars involving the Papacy and the Holy Roman Emperor as well as heavy damage in World War II.

It's Carnevale time in Italy!  Carnevale has many names and is celebrated all over the world, but Italy is home to some of the most famous celebrations including the month long festivities in Viareggio.  In Viareggio there are magnificent floats that can be viewed during several parades held throughout the month leading up to Mardis Gras. There are many villas and apartments for rent in Viareggio during Carnevale.

Ivrea, located in Piedmont, will give you a reason to duck during Carnevale: the great citrus war!