Italy Dreams

Author: Florida Culture

  • Here Are 5 Places Where Italians Go on Vacation in Italy

    Beautiful Matera in the Basilicata region of south Italy. It’s one of the oldest continuously occupied cities of the world.

    Did you know that 70% of tourists to Italy go to just 1% of the country–namely, Florence, Rome, and Venice? Of course, these cities have a wealth of history, food, and culture (we even shared some foodie facts from our Florence visit in this post).

    Yet let’s face it, getting stuck in the heat and crowds is NOT fun.

    So, in the spirit of Italy Dreams’ mission, we share here five destinations in Italy that are popular among Italians themselves. That’s not to say you won’t find other U.S., British, or other foreign tourists in these beautiful places–but there will be far fewer compared to places like Florence, Rome and Venice.

    Andiamo! Let’s go!

    A nighttime view of the historic town of Matera, Italy.

    Matera

    If you like history, the town of Matera will take you in the way back machine–as in waaaaaayyyyy back. It’s the oldest city in Europe, and one of the oldest continuously inhabited areas of the world–we’re talking history that goes back to 7500 B.C. The 2004 movie “The Passion of the Christ” used Matera as a backdrop.

    This history and the city’s unique look naturally drives visitors to this Southern Italian town, located in the region of Basilicata. Matera is about 2 hours from Naples, depending on how you get there.

    Here are just some of the things that native Italian visitors do in Matera–and that you can do, too:

    —Visit the Sassi di Matera, or stones of Matera, which are declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is an ancient settlement area with alleyways, caves (providing great views of the town itself), gardens, and tunnels.

    —Check out The Bread Museum (I Segreti del Pane di Matera). Discover what makes bread from Matera so special and how it ties into the area’s history. It will make you hungry–good thing you’re in Italy!

    —Get a stunning view of Matera’s caves from the Pascoli Square Belvedere (Pascoli Square Belvedere). Named for the 19th-century Matera poet Giuseppe Pascoli, you’ll find a balcony that provides a lovely view of the Matero Cathedral, Civita Caves, and part of the stone districts of Matera.

    A beautiful beach in Sardinia, Italy.

    Sardinia

    We’re sure you’ve heard of Sicily, but have you heard of Sardinia? Think of this island region of Italy as Sicily’s wilder sister. It’s located in the Mediterranean Sea, south of the French island of Corsica and west of Italy’s mainland.

    Sardinia is the second largest island in the Mediterranean, second only to Sicily, and has a population of 1.7 million. That may sound like a lot, but it’s actually one of the most sparsely populated regions of Italy.

    Life’s just a little different in Sardinia, Italy.

    So, just what can you do in Sardinia? Here’s the scoop:

    —Eat a lot of Pecorino cheese. Despite its many kilometers/miles of coastline, Sardinia is actually better known for sheep farming than it is for fishing. All of that sheep farming leads to a lot of Pecorino cheese, made from sheep. Other foods you might enjoy in Sardinia include malloreddus, a type of Sardinian gnocchi; pane carasau, a crispy bread; and seadas, a fried pastry with cheese and honey.

    —Go to the beach. With about 1,200 miles (yes!) of coastline, Sardinia is a natural choice if you consider yourself a beachgoer. Spiaggia di Maria Pia (hailed as a family-friendly choice), Golfo di Orosei (with gorgeous coves), and Spiaggia della Pelosa are just a few possible choices.

    —Take a wine tasting tour in Sardinia. After all, wine is just one factor in what makes Sardinia one of the Blue Zone areas of the world–areas with longer longevity and good health. In Sardinia, that’s due to a healthy diet, physical activity that’s a part of daily life, social connections, and of course, some vino.

    A stunning beach on Isola d’Elba/Elba Island.

    Isola d’Elba

    This beautiful-sounding name translates to Elba Island in English. It’s located off the coast of the Tuscany region, which is already well-known for wine, Florence, and Pisa. Visitors typically get there by taking a ferry from the town of Piombino (about an hour, depending on where you’re going on the island).

    Isola d’Elba is a great choice if you want a quiet destination with history, says Alessandro N. of Brescia, Italy, who was there earlier this year (he also provided the island photos with this article and the photos of Sardinia). He says the mix of history along with natural landscape made it a laidback destination.

    The town of Portoferraio on Isola d’Elba.

    Here are some other things you can do in Isola d’Elba:

    —Follow Napoleon’s footsteps on the island. Napoleon was exiled to Isola d’Elba for 9 months in 1814, but he left a big mark on the island. Visit the Mercy and Napoleon Relics Museum and the Villa Dei Mulini, for instance–the latter of which was his primary residence while spending time there.

    —Take a bike ride, buy yourself some bread and fresh fruit, and check out a few of the seaside towns. This lovely-sounding plan is recommended by the website Italy Segreta (Italy Secret), in its article “A Local’s Guide to Elba Island.” You may want to check out their site for a few more tips.

    San Vito Lo Capo in Sicily, Italy (picture used from Wikimedia Commons).

    San Vito Lo Capo

    Sicily has many idyllic beach areas, but one local favorite is San Vito Lo Capo. Located about 2 hours from Palermo, San Vito Lo Capo features stunning beaches and lots of nature. We read that it gets busy in the summer, so we’re not billing it as a complete escape from tourism (including in August, when many Italians take off for a few weeks). However, a little bit of crowding may be worth the visit.

    A chess match in San Vito Lo Capo, Sicily (picture taken from Wikimedia Commons).

    Here are just some of the things you can do in San Vito Lo Capo in Sicily:

    —Take part in all types of water activities, like boating, snorkeling, or, of course, just lounging on the beach.

    —Indulge in typical Sicilian dishes. One cool thing about Sicily is that it blends together different cultural influences from around the world. This is especially clear in its food, where you can enjoy dishes like couscous, tuna, and caldo freddo (a type of Sicilian ice cream) during your visit.

    —Visit the San Vito Sanctuary, a monument and symbol of the town The site WeArePalermo provides more background about the sanctuary’s history–and a well-written, amusing guide to San Vito Lo Capo.

    Seaside views at San Benedetto del Tronto, Italy.

    San Benedetto del Tronto

    If you want a mix of seaside views, seaside cuisine, and an artsy feel, your next destination should be the underrated San Benedetto del Tronto, located in the Italian region of Marche on the country’s eastern coast.

    Find this and other sculptures and artwork in San Benedetto del Tronto, Italy.

    Here are a few things to do when you’re in SBT:

    —Visit the Museum of Art on the Sea (Museo del Mare), an open-air museum on the pier with sculptures and paintings. Take pics, and talk with your travel partners about which artworks are your faves.

    —Explore the boardwalk by foot or bike. It’s nearly 6 kilometers (nearly 3.7 miles), so you’ll have plenty to see and do.

    —Enjoy a meal! San Benedetto del Tronto has some great seafood, according to Verena, a resident of Val Badia, Italy. She was in SBT recently and recommends the Brodetto alla sambenedettese, a type of fish stew that’s typical of the region. (Verena also provided the photos we’re sharing of San Benedetto del Tronto).

    For any of these places, do your homework in advance. These towns and regions may not be bombarded with tourists like the big cities, but they can still get busy, especially in the summer. Check online for best times to visit and any other tips.

    Buon viaggio!

  • 8 Tips to Be a Respectful Tourist in Italy and the Rest of Europe

    Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery in Florence is one of the most popular art sights in Italy. It also may be where you see visitors become disrespectful tourists. Our article shares how you can be respecful when visiting Italy.

    It hit us when we were at the Accademia Gallery in Florence, viewing the famous 500-year-old David sculpture by Michelangelo.

    There was a throng of people around the sculpture, and several of them were taking selfies. Now, all of us (or most of us) do selfies from time to time. Yet there was a casualness to their attitude, as if they were taking a picture of themselves outside their hometown donut shop before continuing on with their day. They would take their selfie and be on their way to the next priceless art piece in the museum, with little thought or care to the history or detail of this famous piece of art.

    It’s partly that attitude–a seeming lack of respect–that’s led several cities in Italy and around Europe to revolt against overtourism in recent years. In June 2025, locals in Italy, Portugal, and Spain targeted tourists with water guns to bring attention to their large numbers. Protesters in Venice spoke out against overtourism and the lavish wedding of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. Tourists bombarded the small town of Sirmione along Lake Garda in north Italy in May 2025, with videos of that overtourism going viral.

    A whopping 70% of tourists to Italy visit only 1% of the country–namely, Rome, Florence, and Venice.

    With that background in mind, let’s break down what you can do to be a more respectful tourist in Italy. The locals will say grazie!

    Tourists make their way through the hilly streets of Bellagio on Lake Como, in north Italy.

    8 Tips to Be a More Respectful Tourist in Italy and Europe

    1. Learn a little Italian. Italians are tickled when you try to speak a little Italian, even it’s as simple as buongiorno, ciao, or grazie. (Pasta seems to be part of the universal language, hahaha.) Even if they speak English back to you, which definitely might happen, speaking a few words of Italian shows that you are making an effort to be respectful of the country’s culture.
    2. Think historically. Italy is not Disney World or Epcot. The history in Italy, just like in many parts of Europe, is very real and delicate. As you walk on the cobblestone streets (hopefully in comfortable shoes) or tour through old buildings or churches, aim to preserve that history by keeping your hands to yourself, throwing away garbage in garbage cans, and following any other rules shared by signs or tour guides.
    Small groups of tourists seen outside Santa Maria Novella Church in Florence.

    3. Watch what you wear. Many churches in Italy will want your shoulders and knees to be covered upon entering. Plus, some will enforce no sandals. Tour leader Renata De Masi of Tuscany observes that many young people don’t dress appropriately when touring around Italy’s more delicate sites. Solutions: Even in Italy’s hot summer, always have a sweater with you to cover up when needed. Wear closed-toed shoes, or at least have a pair with you for days that you’re visiting churches.

    4. DON’T take a selfie. “Italy has an immense artistic heritage,” De Masi says. “There are several occasions when taking a selfie has cost the integrity of artworks and museum displays.” This doesn’t mean you can’t ever take a selfie in Italy. Just be mindful in historical areas of any rules that limit selfies and/or flash photography.

    A busy street in Milan.

    5. Stay out of the way of locals. If you’re from a big city, have you ever had your commute hampered by tourists? Maybe you’re driving through your city and there are tourists in the middle of the road trying to capture that perfect view. Or, they’re standing in the middle of the sidewalk to figure out where the ice cream shop is while you’re scurrying to work? We’ve all been there, and it’s the same in Europe’s big cities. Take up your tourist space when needed, but be super mindful of locals who are living their lives and don’t have the same leisure time that you do while traveling through their country.

    6. Go beyond the big cities. We can’t emphasize this tip enough. As we’ve learned more about Italy’s 20 regions, we’ve seen the allure that each area holds. And yet–we hear again and again about Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan. Don’t get us wrong, those are all wonderful places to visit. Yet we also know Italian people visiting out-of-the-way locations in their country and encountering few to zero tourists while there. Have you thought about spending time in the region of Umbria? Or Sardinia? Le Marche? Abruzzo? They all have wonderful things to see. Our next article will cover several places where Italians like to visit in their own country–and they will be less tourist-focused then the other well-known destinations. Make sure to subscribeto our blog to check out that article, so you can plan your next less hectic trip to Italia.

    Tourists inside the Accademia Gallery in Florence. Note that these were crowds in early March–not the summer, when tourism is especially crowded.

    7. Watch your manners–and your volume. We often hear that Europeans are more polite than Americans. Whether or not that’s always true, we can tell you that using please/per favore, thank you/grazie, and good morning/buongiorno can go a long way toward creating goodwill. While you’re at it, watch your volume when you’re speaking in public. Speaking at a softer volume will help you blend in better.

    8. Read up on local transportation rules. This may be a way that we tourists aren’t intentionally disrespectful, just uninformed. Yet knowing some local transportation rules can help make your time in Italy more efficient and easier. Here are a few tips shared by De Masi:

    a. Avoid a fine on public transportation by validating your paper ticket. This is something that many tourists don’t know so they don’t do it. Here’s a quick video to show you how to validate your train ticket.

    b. Consider using contactless payment methods for public transportation when available.

    c. If you plan to drive in Italy, make sure to get an International Driving Permit in advance of your trip. It’s required. Ifdriving, do some research on local traffic signs as they won’t always translate easily in English. For instance, “ZTL” indicates areas with limited traffic and usually are in city centers. This may limit these areas to only authorities or delivery drivers. Cities will track cars entering these areas by using camera technology and issue heavy fines to offenders.

    d. Know that tourist buses may not be allowed to park near historic destinations. If you’re on a tourist bus, you may need to walk 10 or 15 minutes to where you’re going. Wear good shoes, have water, and be ready to walk!

    The view along a Florence street.

      Want more info on how to be a respectful tourist in Italy? There are several videos on YouTube that you may find helpful. When in doubt, ask your local hotel representatives or tour guides for help. Buon viaggio!

    1. Target Travel Wows the World With Italian Custom Tours

      Stunning Matera in the Italian region of Basilicata. Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and famous for caves and ancient history. All pictures with this story are shared by Target Travel.

      How would you like to see the historical sights of Rome, Italy, at sunrise—where you can beat the crowds and capture some amazing pictures?

      Or, what about a food-focused tour of Italy where you literally follow a food from where it’s grown or produced to where it’s ultimately enjoyed on someone’s table?

      Or, take a local market tour and cooking class with an Italian chef?

      Those types of unique ideas and many more are what Target Travel offers.

      The team at Target Travel.

      Target Travel is a family-run, Venice-based DMC (Destination Management Company) that’s been tailoring tours and experiences since 1985, founded by CEO Daniele Panzarin.

      What sets Target Travel apart from many other DMCs is the feeling of being at home when working with them. You can truly sense the pride they take in helping people discover the most authentic and unique side of Italy.

      With a team of 26 professionals, the company proudly retains the spirit of a boutique destination management company—with deep experience and a warm, family-like atmosphere, where strong interpersonal relationships are always the foundation of everything they do.

      The Bridge of Sighs, Venice Italy.

      2025 is a special year because Target Travel is celebrating its 40th anniversary—a significant milestone that adds even more prestige to the company.

      Target Travel focuses on bespoke tours (tailored tours for couples or families, for instance) and custom small groups (12 to 15 people) looking for unique tourism experiences around Italy. The type of traveler interested in Target Travel tours is usually a U.S.-based premium or luxury traveler wanting to visit Italy. In all situations, the experience is tailor-made for the visitors.

      Taormina, Sicily, Italy.

      What Makes Target Travel Different

      If you’ve visited Italy already, then you’re acutely aware of the large crowds in the country’s popular tourist destinations, such as Florence, Rome, and Venice. These crowds are present even outside of the summer, when tourism reaches its peak in Europe.

      While you may still visit these larger cities on a tour with Target Travel, you’ll have the chance to see lesser known parts of these popular destinations. This could include a private viewing of paintings, a cooking class and a visit to a local market with a chef, or a tour to historic sights at sunrise before the crowds gather.

      Of course, Target Travel also can take you to smaller cities and towns for unique experiences and fewer crowds.

      Alberobello in the Puglia region of Italy. The town of Alberobello is famous for its white buildings.

      “There are so many wonderful regions in Italy and nowadays, everybody says, ‘I want to go off the beaten path. I want to eat and travel like a local,’” says Lisa Zennaro, sales manager at Target Travel. “It’s fancy and trendy right now. But this is something that Target Travel has been doing since the beginning, when the company was founded.”

      That long history also gives reassurance to travelers that Target Travel has the right expertise under its belt, both for its Italy knowledge but also for its administrative acumen. They’ll handle the small details so you as a traveler don’t need to worry about them.

      Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, Sicily, Italy.

      Where Will You Travel in Italy With Target Travel?

      Although Target Travel can tailor experiences and itineraries for free independent travelers (like couples and families) and small groups, it also has typical tours that it offers to popular destinations. Here’s a sampling of what Target offers from around Italy:

      • Italy’s Vibrant South tour covers Sicily and the region of Calabria in 13 days. You’ll fly into Palermo in Sicily and then make your way all around the country’s well-known island, including Marsala (famous for its wine), the Valley of the Temples, the luxe town of Taormina, and Calabrian coastal towns.
      • The Reign of Art and Gastronomy in Milan and Turin guides you in nine days to Milan’s famous Fashion District, the Turin Cathedral with the Chapel of the Holy Shroud, and the Truffle Fair, among other highlights.
      • The Experiential Women’s Journey traverses north Italy and Florence over 13 days. You’ll try wines in the Chianti region of Tuscany and take a bike tour from Siena to Montalcino, explore the highlights of Florence, learn all about cheese-making at the Museum of Parmigiano Reggiano (trying some delicious cheese), and see close up how Venetian masks are made in Venice!
      • Discovering Puglia takes a nine-day tour around south Italy’s beautiful Puglia region, starting in the Baroque city of Lecce (often called the Florence of the south), the fishing village of Gallipoli, Ostuni (famous for its white houses), Matera (one of the world’s oldest cities), and much more before flying out of Rome.
      • Umbria You Didn’t Expect offers a five-day tour around central Italy’s Umbria region, including the olive groves of Panicale, the medieval gates and buildings (and chocolate!) of Perugia, the 15th century paintings in Foligno, and a tour of one of Umbria’s finest farmhouses, specializing in cattle.
      Vieste, Puglia, in south Italy. All pictures provided by Target Travel.

      Of course, you can use these itineraries for inspiration and work with your travel agent to tailor your wonderful trips to Italy.

      Target Travel works with travel agencies and independent travel advisors. Those in the travel industry who want to work with the company can find them online at Target.Travel.

      Buon viaggio!

      The Colosseum in Rome, Italy.

    2. Here’s Your Day Trip Plan From Milan to Lake Como, Italy

      Bellano, Italy, on Lake Como on a Sunday morning, before the crowds came in.

      If you’re visiting Milan, Italy, and want to take a day trip to Lake Como–home to George and Amal Clooney and gorgeous lake views–we’ve got good news for you. Many of the lake towns are just over an hour away by train.

      Surprisingly, the cosmopolitan feel of Milan quickly fades away via train as you reach mountain views. You even start imagining yourself just hopping over the border to Switzerland for some Toblerone chocolate. In fact, the train ride from Lake Como to Lugano, Switzerland, is just 40 minutes.

      Yet for the purposes of our journey, we’re going to stay in Italy and tell you how you can reach three towns surrounding Lake Como for an enjoyable day trip. This is a trip we at Italy Dreams did in early 2025. For context, I’m a female solo traveler but I find it easier to use “we” when writing.

      Cool buildings in Bellagio on Lake Como in Italy.

      Here’s our first set of tips to help you plan:

      —Pick two to three cities around Como that you want to visit for the day. Our itinerary takes you through Bellano, Bellagio, and Varenna in that order, but there are many other towns you can visit, including the town of Como. Bellano seemed to be a good starting point. There are countless online articles online and guidebooks (we always find Rick Steves‘ information helpful) to help you choose destinations.

      —Buy your train ticket online in advance on a site like Italia Rail. If you’re looking to visit more than one town in a day, it’s helpful to plan in advance what time you want to leave Milan and reach your first lake destination. You’ll also want to keep in mind the time it’ll take you to get from where you’re staying to the train station. There are a handful of different train stations in Milan that will take you to Lake Como, so make sure you show up at the right station.

      —Pay attention to the train station signage. It will tell you what time the train is leaving and what platform to use. Note: Many Italian trains require you to validate your ticket while at the station, but we didn’t have to do this with our ticket for some reason. If in doubt, ask at the train station before you board the train.

      A Vespa spotted in Bellano, Italy.

      Things to Do in Bello Bellano

      We arrived in bello Bellano (population: 3,400) on a quiet, cool Sunday morning around 9 a.m. Not quite sure where to go, we followed a few other people getting off the train who appeared to be walking toward the lake. There was a small farmers market with a mix of food products and crafts, and it was the perfect place to take those photos and videos that make you say, “Look, I’m at Lake Como!” You could see how busy the area might get in the summer.

      This view of Orrido di Bellano reminded us of Natural Bridge State Park in Virginia.

      As it was still a little early for shops to be open, we headed toward a gorge called Orrido di Bellano. If you’ve ever been to Natural Bridge State Park in Virginia, it’ll remind you of that. It’s a natural gorge created a whopping 15 million years ago that’s led to the formation of gorges, ravines, and caves. It’s not something you’re expecting to see on your Lake Como visit but it’s definitely a beautiful sight.

      Some tips to visit Orrido di Bellano:

      —Wear good walking shoes. It’s very hilly and you’ll find yourself going over some pedestrian bridges.

      —Take lots of pictures but hold on to your camera or phone tightly. You don’t want it to fall in the gorge!

      Churchgoers on Sunday morning in Bellano, Italy.

      It took us 30 to 45 minutes to make our way through Orrido di Bellano, after which we stumbled upon a church with a Sunday service. We entered quietly (or so we hope!) to listen to some of the service in Italian. It was interesting to see people dressed in winter casual clothing, many still wearing their jackets. There were other tourists like us there toward the back.

      We tried our best in Bellagio to get pics without too many tourists.

      Taking the Ferry to Bello Bellagio

      If you look at Lake Como on a map (it looks like a thin person with long legs running), then you can imagine why taking a ferry is an easier way to get to some destinations compared with driving or even a train. With Bellagio across the water from Bellano, it made sense to hop on the popular ferry, which would be about a 30 minute ride.

      Depending on where you’re visiting around Lake Como, you may also find yourself hopping on the train again but just for a few minutes’ ride to your next destination. Again, do your research on a short train ride versus the ferry and which works best.

      If you can, buy your ferry ticket in advance because otherwise you may find yourself waiting in a potentially long line–and you might even miss the ferry that you want to take. For reasons we can’t recall, we couldn’t buy our ticket online that day and waited in a line.

      At this point in our trip–it was about 11 am–we could feel the crowds. Don’t get us wrong, it was still a beautiful view along the ferry ride, breathing in fresh air and taking pictures (again, hold on tight to your phone!). Yet as the crowd descended on historical, tiny Bellagio, it began to feel like too many people. Overtourism is a real thing in many European destinations, so try to visit at the beginning or end of the day when there are fewer people.

      Lunch in Bellagio was molto buono–and very cheesy!

      Even with the crowds, there was still the charm of Bellagio’s shops, architecture, and scenic vistas. It would have been amazing to spend the night there and see the town first thing in the morning (#futuregoals). We ate lunch at the waterfront restaurant Bar Pasticcheria Rossi–charcuterie board and a rose vino, perfect for Sunday afternoon. After that, it was a stroll by the water and waiting again for the ferry.

      Oh, the places you can go in Lake Como. Note that “Stazione” on the sign means train station.

      Vrooming to Varenna

      The next destination was Varenna, a few minutes away and another popular small town. When you get off the ferry, you’ll likely make your way to the right and walk a few minutes to the congregation of shops right on the water. Again, we could feel the crowds and found the best way to cope was enjoying some gelato by the water from Riva Gelateria…because what would a visit to Lake Como be without gelato?!

      If we were in the mood to check out Every.Shop.in.Town, we could have broadened the time we spent in Bellagio and Varenna–but this was the day before we’d return to the U.S. and we had pretty much gotten the souvenirs we wanted. So, well-fed, we made our way to the train station around 4 p.m. to take a 5 p.m. train back to Milano’s Centrale Train Station.

      Don’t turn down the chance to have gelato when you’re in Italy–this one was enjoyed in Varenna.

      We weren’t the only ones with that idea. As it got closer to 5 p.m., there were many people waiting. The train itself was standing room only (and we were one of the standing ones, as other people had clearly boarded in other Como towns). There’s probably no good way to get around the packed train. If you’re going to pack a lot into your day trip, just know in advance that others will have the same idea. Still, getting to the Como area as early as you can is never a bad move.

      We definitely would do another day trip to Como if we weren’t able to spend the night there. We would likely venture to try other towns around the lake, like the actual town of Como. A trip back to Orrido di Bellano would always be welcome!

    3. What’s It Like to Tour in Tuscany? A Tour Leader Gives Us the Details!

      Beautiful Florence, Italy. All pictures with this article taken by tour leader Renata De Masi.

      Tour guides and tour leaders in Italy have a pretty sweet deal. They spend their time surrounded by Italian art, history, and food, and they get to share it with others (sign us up, please!).

      Tour guides and tour leaders in Italy also have the scoop on best ways to prep for your Italian adventure. Italy Dreams interviewed Tuscany-based tour leader Renata De Masi, and we definitely learned a lot based on her experiences. If you’re with a tourism agency and you’d like to work with her, you can find her contact information at the end of this article.

      Tour leader Renata De Masi in San Gimignano, Italy.

      Italy Dreams: So, how did you become a tour leader?

      Renata D.: I think I was born a traveller! Since I was a teenager, when my parents said that we were to take a trip, I was filled with joy! Packing, visiting new places, meeting new people, new foods…everything seemed fascinating.


      Growing up I continued to travel in Brazil (I was born in Brazil from an Italian family) and abroad but strangely enough, I did not decide to work in the tourism industry.

      I was working in an office for years and years. Then, I decided to change everything and take a sabbatical from work and move to Italy. My life changed for real—I married a Florentine and got into the Italian mindset of tourism!

      In this wonderful country where art and beauty are everywhere, it enticed me to become a tour leader. And I’m so glad I did. It’s just the job for me, both the beauty and being in contact with people.
      I love seeing the joyful faces of my tourists when we arrive in Tuscan cities!

      Florence, Italy, where you can see part of the Duomo (cathedral).

      Italy Dreams: For how long have you been a tour guide in Tuscany?

      Renata D.: I’d like to specify that I’m a tour leader. In Italy, there are differences between a  tour leader and a tour guide, and we must respect the differences.

      To become a tour leader, you have to pass a licensing exam at a regional or provincial office to obtain a license. After that, you also have to obtain a license issued by your municipality of residence, and then you’ll be registered in the regional register of tour leaders.

      To become a tour guide, you must take a National Licensing Examination for the profession. After passing the Licensing Examination, candidates will be enrolled in the National List of Tourist Guides established at the Ministry of Tourism.

      So, back to me. I have been a tour leader since 2016 after passing the licensing exam. I started the Tour Leader course in 2015 and it took almost 9 months of study. I did 450 hours of practice with an agency. When I got my license, I started to work for that agency.

      Siena, Italy.

      Italy Dreams: Where are some of the places that you take tour groups? Which places are most popular?

      Renata D.: Tuscany is a wonderful region of Italy and even if you live here, there is always a place to discover. Sunday is the famous day for the ‘giratina fuori porta‘ (Sunday outside tour). Every Italian likes to do that.

      Florence is an open-air museum and should be visited with a tour guide who will tell the story of the Medici family and how they loved this city.

      Basically, we do daily tours from Florence to Siena, San Gimignano, Monteriggioni, the Chianti area, Pisa, Lucca, Montalcino, Pienza and Montepulciano.

      Every day we take tourists to these cities, and people end the day with so much beauty inside that no photo can ever express the reality!

      As a first approach, these tours are very good for those who do not want to plan the trip themselves and don’t want to worry about transportation and various logistics.

      One special city I’d like to mention is Volterra. Volterra is a city founded by the Etruscans and is famous for alabaster working. There is so much to see in this town and its historic center is very beautiful! (Note from Italy Dreams: Volterra is the city that appears in the movie “Twilight: New Moon.” )

      Certaldo, the upper part of Volterra, is a walled Medieval Village and the lower part is modern. It is famous in the summer for its Mercantia Festival where you will find art, dance, theater, music and juggling throughout the streets of the town.

      There is so much to see and so many other cities to discover!

      Monteriggioni, Italy.

      Italy Dreams: What are some questions you commonly get from visitors about places you visit?

      Renata D.: Some tourists are very interested in Italian art and history. For example, there are unique places in Italy, such as the towers of San Gimignano or the Leaning Tower of Pisa, so these places normally have a lot of curiosity.


      People also ask a lot about the food and wine of each Italian region. They ask me about when it’s OK to drink a cappuccino. Let’s dispel the myth: It is not forbidden to drink a cappuccino after 12 o’clock. Sometimes, you can even snack on a cappuccino. But we don’t drink cappuccino with pasta. Noooooo! Pasta should be paired with a nice wine.

      San Gimiignano, Italy.

      Italy Dreams: What are a couple of things that you think visitors should know before visiting Tuscany or Florence?

      Renata D.: A lot of the cities in Tuscany are UNESCO Heritage Sites, and the buses can’t enter inside the city center. They have a parking lot made especially for them, and we walk with the group to the destination.

      My advice is to wear comfortable shoes in order to enjoy the tour.

      Prepare your trip in advance and obtain information about the cities you want to visit.

      Know that most of the sites in Tuscany were populated by the Etruscans and they began their settlement high in the hills as a matter of defense.

      Renata De Masi in Florence, Italy.


      Italy Dreams: What advice do you have for someone visiting Italy for the first time?

      Renata D.: Here are a few suggestions:

      1. Book tickets in advance. Italy is sought after, and tickets for attractions run out quickly. To avoid being disappointed, it is best to book tickets in advance.

      2. Carry some cash. It’s better to be safe than sorry!

      3. On regional and local trains throughout Italy, it’s important to validate your ticket before getting on board. Once you’re at the rail station, look for a green machine in which you can place your ticket to have the date and time stamped. Anyone who forgets is liable to pay a fine, which ranges depending on if you pay the controller on the spot.

      4. If you go on a tour with a tour guide or tour leader, they should have a license prominently displayed, so you are sure it is a professional in good standing and not a bogus one.

      5. In Italy, food is serious business, and table etiquette is always highly valued. Dress appropriately and be patient if the service is slower than you are used to. A few words in Italian like grazie and prego are very welcome!

      6. Pay attention to the calendar of village festivals where you are visiting. It is a lot of fun to be able to participate in events with Italians!

      7. Prior to booking a tour, read carefully all the activities that are included or if something is optional. Sometimes, you can lose a good chance to do a guided tour or enter inside a wonderful cathredal.

      8. A large number of artworks and tours are done inside the churches. Dress appropriately or otherwise, you will not be able to enter.

      Italy Dreams: How can people get in touch with you for tours?

      Renata D.: Certainly. We tour leaders are freelancers, and we can work with any travel agency in the world; we cannot work with individuals. If any tourism agency is interested in my work, please email me at demasire@hotmail.com.

      We will wait for you here in Italy!

    4. Florence, Italy, for Foodies: Where to Go and What to Eat

      Read our article for a few tips on finding a great meal in Florence, Italy.

      Florence, Italy, is beloved for its history and culture. Michelangelo’s David? Right over here. Boticelli’s artwork? It’s got that, too. Tons and tons of history dating back to 52 B.C.? Check!

      Yet if you’re visiting Florence, you probably also want to know some great ways to enjoy its food. Because after all, there’s no going hungry in Tuscany.

      Here are four food recommendations for your visit to Florence.

      Molto buono! Gelato from Edoardo, an organic gelato place.

      Edoardo il Gelato Biologico

      Piazza del Duomo, 45/R, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

      You’ve got your share of gelato places around the Duomo (Cathedral)–why not pick one that’s highly rated and organic?

      Edoardo’s gelato is made without chemicals or artificial colors. Enjoy flavors like pistachio and hazelnut among other choices(including some seasonal changes). Remember what European travel guru Rick Steves says–if gelato comes in neon-bright colors, you probably want to avoid it. Edoardo’s gelato has muted colors, adding to its authenticity.

      Sandwiches found on the second floor of Mercato Centrale in Florence.

      Mercato Centrale Firenze

      Via Generale dalla Chiesa, 13 50136 Firenze

      When we arrived in Florence, we made an early-morning beeline toward the Duomo so we could see it before big crowds arrived (which is a great tip for just about anywhere you’re traveling in Italy). But really, we were just killing time until Mercato Centrale opened.

      Mercato Centrale has food stalls on its first floor, with a colorful mix of food and products that could keep you busy all morning. If you like taking pictures, definitely take your time to find good pics.

      One of the first stalls we saw featured the lampredotto sandwich, a Tuscan specialty that uses the fourth stomach from a cow.  Further down, we saw pigs’ heads, massive containers of sundried tomatoes, and plenty of vino. There were a few places to buy pastries, like the famous cornetto (croissant) that Italians often have for breakfast.

      One of the food stalls at Mercato Centrale in Florence.

      Some of the vendors were tourist-geared and gave samples of items like truffle cream, cheeses, vinegar, and olive oil.

      In an amusing twist, we saw two stands that displayed the Peruvian flag, reflecting the small but mighty Peruvian community in Florence, Much like Italy, Peru is famous for its cuisine, and the stalls included some of the produce and spices better known by its natives.

      Upstairs at Mercato Centrale, there’s a food hall with a ton of ready-made food items that you can order–from hamburgers to pizza to American barbecue and more. We tried a caprese sandwich that was perfect for an early lunch. Use this handy guide for the layout of the Mercato Centrale’s second floor.

      Bravo! Pesto pasta from Osteria del Fiore.

      Osteria del Fiore

      Piazza del Duomo, 57r, 50122 Firenze

      We realize that there are many great places to eat in Florence. There are hidden gems away from the tourist crowds, but there also are some tourist-friendly restaurants that come with fantastic food and a stunning view. That’s what you’ll find at Osteria del Fiore, where we enjoyed a pesto pasta with tomatoes while watching the world go by beside the Duomo.

      Our pasta was served with a side of bread, perfect for sopping up extra pesto sauce. On the menu here, our order was Fusilli al Pesto con Pomodorini (fusilli pasta with pesto and tomatoes).

      This sign in a Florence supermarket tells the name of the fruit (mandarins) and where they are from (Spain).

      Local Supermarkets

      Various locations

      After checking into the hotel, the first thing we did was find a supermarket. After all, it was our first time in Italy in a very long time, and we were too tired and impatient for a sit-down meal.

      Interesting ricotto cheese at a Florence supermarket.

      Going to a supermarket was a fascinating way to see how people shop, how pasta and sauce prices (and selection) compared to the U.S., and what other snacks would be good for our trip. In fact, we bought a pre-made flatbread for dinner that night along with some European Ritter Sport chocolate. A few days later, we also ended up buying food gifts there, like pesto and pasta.

      It’s hard to go wrong with Italian pizza and vino….

      4 Tips for Choosing a Better Meal in Tuscany

      —Don’t be afraid to eat near the Duomo. Yes, you’ll be there with hundreds of new friends, but as mentioned, one of our best meals in Italy was the pesto pasta enjoyed while staring at the Duomo.

      —Take a cooking class. Sadly, this is something we didn’t have a chance to do. It could be a great way to learn about local cuisine and meet others. Here are a few recommendations for Florence cooking classes from a Rick Steves forum.

      —Try an Italian breakfast. Italians put a lot of effort into their lunches and dinners. So, it may not be surprising that their breakfast is more simple. The most common breakfast is coffee and a croissant, or “un espresso e un cornetto.” Espresso, of course, is the shorter coffee. If you want more coffee to drink, American style, then specify that you want “un caffe Americano.”

      —Use those meal encounters to practice Italian, if you’re learning the language! If not,it still can’t hurt to trhow in the occasional “per favore” and “grazie.” 🙂

      A cornetto and espresso….