Unveiling Oltrarno: Florence’s Hidden Jem

Greetings, fellow travelers, and welcome to Oltrarno, Florence’s well-kept secret tucked away (well, not that much) beyond the Arno River. We’ll embark on an exploration of the lesser-known corners, hidden gems, and timeless secrets that define this off-the-beaten-path neighborhood. Oltrarno, meaning ‘beyond the Arno,’ beckons those seeking an authentic slice of Florentine life. Away fromContinue reading “Unveiling Oltrarno: Florence’s Hidden Jem”

Igniting Tradition: “Lo Scoppio del Carro” in Florence  

Hey fellow adventure seekers! If you’re yearning to add a dash of excitement to your holiday plans for next Easter, get ready to immerse yourself in a dazzling spectacle right in the heart of Florence– “Lo Scoppio del Carro” (The Explosion of the Cart), an event that has been setting the city ablaze, quite literally,Continue reading “Igniting Tradition: “Lo Scoppio del Carro” in Florence  “

Presepi All Around: Uncover the Magic of Christmas in Tuscany’s Valley of Nativity Scenes

Oh, oh, oh, wanderlust enthusiasts! With the holiday season surrounding us, we’re here to sprinkle a bit of festive joy and share a magical secret with you – the enchanting Valley of Nativity Scenes in Tuscany, brought to you by the Union of Municipalities of the Media Valle del Serchio. If you’re seeking a uniqueContinue reading “Presepi All Around: Uncover the Magic of Christmas in Tuscany’s Valley of Nativity Scenes”

Tuscan Christmas’ Eve Night Traditions: Torches, Strolls, and Bonfires

‘Tis the season to be jolly, and where better to spread holiday cheer than in the heart of Tuscany? If you’re planning to spend your Christmas break in the region, be sure to witness one of these enchanting Christmas’ Eve night traditions: picture torch-lit streets in Abbadia San Salvatore, a festive stroll along Monteriggioni’s ViaContinue reading “Tuscan Christmas’ Eve Night Traditions: Torches, Strolls, and Bonfires”

Tuscany’s Fall food festivals

If you’re a die-hard fan of Tuscan cuisine (who isn’t, really?), get ready to embark on a delectable journey through one of Italy’s most gastronomically gifted regions. Especially in the Fall, Tuscany transforms into a food lover’s paradise as it hosts a series of vibrant and mouthwatering food festivals. Get your stretchy pants ready andContinue reading “Tuscany’s Fall food festivals”

Florence in Summertime: secret things to see in and around the city

Florence is a city that truly needs no introduction. It is beautiful all year round, but its winding roads, stunning views and fascinating museums are even more magical in summertime. Its bustling streets are always full of people looking upwards in order to absorb all of the charm its renowned architecture has to offer. FlorenceContinue reading “Florence in Summertime: secret things to see in and around the city”

Easter Monday: a day of antiquing in Chianti

A place of excellence in all its aspects, Tuscany is the land of unique historical heritage, exquisite wines that come from enchanting vineyards, a food culture that is celebrated all over the world, and miles and miles of stunning landscapes. It’s a region deeply connected to its roots, where everything tastes and smells like traditionContinue reading “Easter Monday: a day of antiquing in Chianti”

Across the river and back in time: Oltrarno in Florence

In so many ways, Florence is a city where time somehow seems to have stopped. This comes as no surprise to anyone who has set foot here or just looked at some pictures. Everywhere you turn, and without even walking into a church or a museum, you meet with that everlasting beauty that only masterpiecesContinue reading “Across the river and back in time: Oltrarno in Florence”

San Gimignano: A different kind of skyline

  A skyline from the past, surviving through the centuries to reach the present. If you think that New York got the last word on stunning city silhouettes, you might be quite mistaken. We are in Tuscany, more specifically in the province of Siena, between Chianti Hills and Val d’Orcia. San Gimignano is a smallContinue reading “San Gimignano: A different kind of skyline”

Christmas in Tuscany: a wooden carol

According to where you live, it goes with different names. In Italy, it is typically known as “ceppo”, and even though nowadays its long-lasting tradition has fallen out of fashion, there are several areas that still hold it in high regard. Tuscany is one of them.   Deriving from German paganism and Midwinter ceremonies, folkContinue reading “Christmas in Tuscany: a wooden carol”