Archive for 'Tourist Attractions'

Pictures are worth a thousand words, or so they say. Today, pictures are worth a holiday. Many people hop on a plane and travel thousands of miles, simply to see and photograph things that they have always seen for themselves and Rome is a destination that breeds these curious tourists: it always has, since long before commercial tourism was even a dream. If you have found a vacation rental in Rome, these are the sights that you need to see, and photograph, for yourself!

1. The Spiral Stairs in the Vatican Museums

Designed by Giuseppe Momo in 1932, this beautiful, sweeping staircase is perfectly lit from above and is simply begging to be photographed. Take in its perfection, swooping motion and grandeur for yourself, in person. Then, once you've appreciated it enough, take a picture and bring the sight of one of the many architectural gems that the city has to offer with you.

The Vatican is an incredible treasure trove of culture and art, in particular. As it was a source of immense wealth and the Church was one of the most important patrons in the world for centuries, the body of artworks that has been built up within its walls is pretty much without parallel. Great works, such as Michelangelo's impossibly famous painted ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, are very well known but there are many other works beyond it that are worth taking the time out to see and learn more about. In fact, there is an endless list of other works that we could mention but, in this new series, we'll be choosing some of our best picks to help you narrow it down to some truly excellent works of art. Just find a vacation rental in Rome, head to the Vatican and begin getting stuck into this endless well of cultural and artistic gems.

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.

There are many Christmas markets held all over Italy each year and there are many great markets among them. You're spoiled for choice, really, if you're a Christmas market lover that is spending the festive season in Italy.

One particular Christmas market in Bologna, however, stands out amongst the others as especially interesting. This is the ancient Fiera di Santa Lucia, a market that can trace its beginnings all the way back to the end of the 16th century. For a market positively steeped in tradition and history, there is no better option. Just find a holiday rental in Emilia-Romagna and visit Bologna and the market.