Summer is almost over but not the holiday season. Some Italian regions are still warm and, especially in the south, it is even still possible to take a bath and enjoy the beach.
Considering also that with Covid-19 emergency, many cities have less tourists, this might be the best period to visit art cities that generally are packed with people, provided that you come from one of those countries that is allowed to enter Italy. In case of doubt, check La Farnesina website, our Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Visa for our American friends).
So, here is my personal lists of Italian destination in October 2020.
1. Rome
Wandering in Trastevere, Piazza di Spagna, Piazza del Popolo and so on, has never been easier. Considering that you might land here to start exploring Italy, even a couple of days in the Italian capital are always a good choice. And in case you are looking for free things to do, here is my top 10.
2. Vatican City
If you wish to visit the Sistina Chapel without lining for hours, this is your moment. The weather in Rome is not as hot as in August, therefore even waiting outside a bit will not melt you as an ice-cream. Book your visit to Musei Vaticani as, due to Covid-19 precautions, the access might be limited.
Milano
The financial heart of Italy is waking up after the long lockdown. Fashion is taking over Milan again with its many events and so are design and exhibitions. Here my suggestions even for a very short break in the city.
Verona
The city of Shakespearian most famous lovers is home to an amazing Theatre, the Arena, which offers concerts all over the year. I have never experienced a better acoustics. Of course you can also visit the house of Juliet, ehm, what is supposed to be her house. Don’t forget to touch Juliet Statue’s breast for some good luck.
Lago Maggiore
This lake, that stretches between Italy and Switzerland, is dotted with the lovely villages of Stresa, Angera, Arona, Verbania and includes small islands such as Isola Bella and Isola Madre. Here you can spend an entire holiday, changing location everyday and sailing from spot to spot. You can book a house or hotel or go glamping. I love the antiques markets that offer vintage jewels and handicraft.
Torino
The first capital of Italy was an incredible discovery during the Olympic Games in 2006. The world found out that what was considered the Italian Detroit, is a city full of history and attraction. Here you can find the most important Egyptian Museum of Europe, second for importance only to that of Cairo, as well as a Royal palace, many castles, parks and museums such as that dedicated to the Cinema. Plus, it is my city, you can find me in a historical cafeteria when I am not working or traveling.
Venezia
I bet Venice represents the city that all those who are planning a travel to Italy are eager to visit at least once in their life.
October and November are certainly the best months to come here. There are tourists but not as many as during Summer or Carnival. Plus, Movember gives the city that decadent mood that inspired many poets between the 19th and 20th century.
Bologna
Bologna means tortellini, pasta envelopes with a filling of meat and/or vegetables. But it is also a city with parks and museums, with an ancient heart and a modern mind. I should tell you what to visit, but the truth is that every time I go to Bologna, the food is always my priority. And when it comes to (any kind of) handmade pasta, this city has no rivals.
Matera
I have declared my love to Matera in this post. Coming here means not only visiting a place but also traveling through time. Book a hotel and restaurants with great advance, despite there is less tourism, the laces where you can stay and eat are limited and Matera is becoming more and more an appealing holiday destination.
Catania
Noto, Ragusa Ibla, Scicli, Marzamemi are all amazing villages to visit and Catania is for sure the best spot to land and start visiting this part of Sicily. From here you can also easily reach the Etna volcano, as well as one of the most famous Italian villages: Taormina. But plan also two or three days in Catania and do not forget to eat Arancini al nero di seppia, fried rice balls with cuttlefish ink, that you can find every morning at the fish market.
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