Steeped in antiquity yet bursting with all that’s fashionably modern, Italy is the birthplace of La Dolce Vita – the sweet life that celebrates beauty and happiness.

Climate Winters are long and cold in the northern alps; the summers can be rainy with frequent storms. The far south is warm but often lashed by the sirocco – the hot and humid African wind that brings weeks of stifling heat to the areas south of Rome. Pleasant temperatures make spring and autumn the best times to visit Italy.

Accommodation:from cheap stays to luxury resorts
Check on the internet for the range, location and cost of hotels in Italy

Milan:cutting edge design and fine shopping

Milan’s drab facade belies the fact that it’s the innovation capital of Europe.

transport: getting there and getting around

Malpensa airport, located about 31 miles northwest of Milan, handles most international flights. For domestic and some European flights, Linate airport is used. Stazione Central, which as the name suggests is in the city centre offers an extensive rail network.

Milan has an efficient public transport system is efficient. It includes four underground lines, buses and trams.

climate

Other than the odd heat wave, the climate in Milan is mostly temperate.

accommodation:from cheap stays to luxury resorts Check on the internet for the range, location and cost of Milan hotels

events:what’s on and what’s hot

For all its consumer-driven culture, Milan celebrates the spiritual as well as the worldly.

*The first ten days of June celebrate the Festa del Naviglio, a potpourri of parades, music and various performances.

*The Milan Jazz Festival gets the city swinging in November.

*The Festa di Sant’Ambrogio, on 7 December is celebrated with services, offerings and fairs around the Fiera di Milano. This is also the day that Milan’s renowned opera house La Scala opens its season.

Rome:the eternal city

Drenched in history and weighted with monuments famous the world over – the Vatican and the Colosseum, Rome stands as the epitome of history and culture.

transport:getting there and getting away

Leonardo da Vinci (Fiumicino) airport is 16 miles southwest of the city with the Stazione Termini direct train running hourly into the city. The main bus station is located outside the Stazione Termini. The Rome Metro service has two lines, both of which go through Termini. It runs from 5:30 a.m to 11.30 p.m. and 0:30 on Saturdays.

climate

The climate is mild with sunny skies and pleasant temperatures. However July and August can be oppressively hot, November is often rainy, and December to February can be chill.

accommodation:from cheap stays to luxury resorts Check on the internet for the range, location and cost of Rome hotels

Events: what’s on and what’s hot

*Holy Week (Easter) is time when Catholics from all over the world arrive on pilgrimages to visit the city’s churches and to hear the Pope at the Vatican. On Good Friday a procession of the Cross goes from the Colosseum to Capitoline Hill.

The Estate Romana (Roman Summer), is at the heart of Roman social life from June to September. It’s a time when the city reverberates to free concerts, street theatre and outdoor cinema.

In September museums, galleries and shops stay open all night from 20:00-08:00 on the occasion called Notte Bianca (white night). It’s also a time of free concerts and other happenings all over the city.

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You don’t need a car to spend one day in beautiful Bologna when you are staying in Milan: with the new high speed train Bologna is just one hour away from the center of Milan. Most trains leave from the Milano Centrale station, a few from Milano Porta Garibaldi, and stop at Milano Rogoredo, the door station in the south of Milan. You can get to the Milano Rogodero station with the line 3 of the “metropolitana” (underground), or with one of the suburban train lines S1, S2, S6 and S10,
   Credits: Tiziano – www.istockphoto.com         connecting every point in the city. The trains from Milano Centrale are available every hour, on the half hour from 6:30 AM. The train back from Bologna to Milan runs every hour on the minute 24, from 9:24 AM to 10:24 PM.

To experience the train running at 186mph (300 kmh) is by itself worth the trip.

Once in Bologna you can take the Bus nos. A, 25, and 30, they run between the station and the historic core of Bologna, Piazza Maggiore from where you can start your visit of the city. A lunch in one of the restaurants in downtown Bologna should not be missed, as Bologna is called “la grassa” (The Fat) for its culinary traditions.

Bologna 1 – PIAZZA MAGGIORE Maggiore square

This is the heart of the city and the result of secular transformations which enriched it progressively with important buildings.

Surrounding the square are: Basilica di San Petronio, Palazzo dei Notai, Palazzo d’Accursio, Palazzo del Podestà and the scenic facade of Palazzo dei Banchi.

2 – FONTANA DEL NETTUNO Piazza del Nettuno- Fountain of Neptune

This monument of marble and bronze was built by the “Flemish” Giambologna according to a design by Tommaso Laureti in 1563. It represents the symbol of papal power: while Neptune rules over the seas the Pope dominates over the land.

At the foot of the God are four cherubs which represent the Ganges, the Nile, the Amazon and the Danube-the rivers of the continents known to humans at the time.

3 – PALAZZO RE ENZO Piazza del Nettuno- Piazza Re Enzo- King Enzo’s Palace

Originally called Palatium Novum because it was added on to the older Palazzo del Podestà, it was later renamed Palazzo Re Enzo, as it became the prison of Enzo, son of the Emperor Frederic the Second, who was defeated by the people of Bologna in the battle of Fossalta in 1249.

Only a part of the building can be visited; from the courtyard, you go up the staircase leading to a “loggia” or gallery with a spectacular view.

Open: open to the public only during the exhibitions.

4 – PALAZZO DEL PODESTA’ Piazza Maggiore – Podestà Palace

The present building is a 15th century reconstruction of the old 13th century palace. It was designed by A.Fioravanti and built in sandstone in 1483. The medieval tower reaching into the sky is fruit of Master Alberto’s genious: a true masterpiece of engineering, it doesn’t stand on the ground but on the pillars of the arched Podestà vault. Open: open to the public only during the exhibitions.

5- PALAZZO DEI BANCHI Piazza Maggiore-Banchi Palace

This was the latest building constructed on the square:it is actually thought as a scenic facade to hide the narrow streets of the market in the back. Designed by Vignola, it dates back to the second half of the 16th century. Its facade is composed of 15 arches, two of which allow the access to the Clavature and Pescherie streets. Only the exterior is visible.

6 – PALAZZO DEI NOTAI via Pignattari, 1-Notai Palace

This used to be the seat of the ancient and powerful Corporation of Notaries. It is has two different parts: the first, towards the church, was built under the supervision of Antonio di Vincenzo, while the construction of the second, more recent one, was directed by B.Fioravanti in 1440s. The difference can be seen in the double lancet windows. Opening hours:Notai Hall/Internet Café: Mon and Fri 8.30-14.30, Tue/Wed/Thu 8.30-18. Closed:Sat and Sun. Entrance free.List of the villas,historical residences and palaces of Bologna

7 – BASILICA DI S.PETRONIO Piazza Maggiore – Basilica of saint Petronius

Its construction began in 1390 to celebrate the victory of the people of Bologna over the Florentine people and the Pope. It is a civic temple, that is, belonging to the citizens. It has never been completed and its construction continued up to the 17th century. Pink marble and bricks were used for the facade, and the massive central door is a masterpiece of Jacopo della Quercia, on which he sculpted scenes from the Old and the New Testament. In the inside:the Altar of the 2nd chapel to the left holds the funerary Urn with the remains of Saint Petronius. The particular illuminaion of the church is due to its north-south orientation. The sundial, which is the largest one to be found in an enclosed area, was built by the astronomer Cassini in the 17th century. Among the chapels, the 4th from the left, attributable to Bolognini, is famous for its exquisite decoration. The frescoes are the work of Giovanni da Modena who represented Hell, Paradise and the Coronation od the Virgin on the left wall and, on the right, the journey of Three Kings. Entrance free. List of the most interesting churches

8 – PALAZZO D’ACCURSIO Piazza Maggiore, 6-D’Accursio Palace-Town Hall

It is made up of two distinct constructions. The building on the left, the older of the two, was the residence of the Accursio family, giving its name to the whole building.It belonged to the Magistracy of the Elders from 1336. The clock tower was built in 1444. The right part of the building is fully Gothic characterised by eight double lancet windows and a great window in the lower part. It was built in the mid-16th century by Galeazzo Alessi. The same architect built the triumphal entrance on whose upper part stands the statue of Gregory XIII, responsible for introducing the reform of the calendar. The building now houses local council offices but from the 16th to the 19th century it was the official residence of the Papal legate.The Chapel and the Sala Farnese, the Sala d’Ercole, the Sala Rossa, the Council Chamber and what was previously the Sala Borsa (now the center of the new Council library) are all open to public view. Archaeological exhibits can also be seen in the library (entry from Piazza Nettuno). Morandi Museum-Inaugurated in 1993 on the occasion of the donation of a collection by the painter’s sisters, it includes about 200 works of art which span the artist’s entire career, from youth to maturity. The museum houses aquarelles, etchings, drawings and a reconstruction of Morandi’s studio which was located in the central Via Fondazza. Municipal Art Collection and Appartments of the Legate Cardinal-It includes pieces from private collections (Palagi,Pepoli,etc.) arranged in the halls of the Accursio Palace. Among others, there are pieces dating to the 14th century, as well as pieces by Tintoretto and Carracci.List of museums and collections and List of the villas, historical residences and palaces of Bologna

9 – LE DUE TORRI Piazza di Porta Ravegnana -The two towers

These are to be considered the symbol of the city. Originally, during the Middle Ages, Bologna counted about seventy towers and house-towers. The construction of the Garisenda tower began arond 1120 to celebrate the banishment of the imperial legate, but was left incomplete due to the incliantion of the ground. Construction of the Asinelli tower began right afterwords, and bears the name of the family who owned it. It is 97 m high (498 stairs) and together with the Garisenda (47m), is under constant observation to measure and contain the incliantion. List of villas,historical residences and palaces

10 – PALAZZO DELLA MERCANZIA Piazza della Mercanzia, 4

Built by Antonio di Vincenzo in 1384, the palace itself is in clay brick while the double lancet windows and the balcony are in marble. The palace, in Gothic style, is characterised by two ogival arches and a long upper frieze displaying the coats of arms of the city guilds. In niches found on the left and on the right are patron saints of the city, while the statue of Justice is in the central one. The palace was destroyed by the bombings during World War II and later rebuilt. Access limited to the entrance hall/groups only by request. List of villas, historical residences and palaces

11- BASILICA S. STEFANO Via S. Stefano, 24-St.Stephen’s Basilics

This is actually a group of churches also known as “Holy Jerusalem” because it recalls the passion of Jesus. Its construction began in the 8th century and was erected by the Longobards, who made their own church. On the left you can see the church of St.Vitale and Agricola, so named for the relics of the first martyrs of Bologna which originally lay here; the church of the Holy Sepulchre, within which is housed the small central temple intended to bring to mind the sepulchre of Christ of Jerusalem (until the year 2000 it contained the remains of Saint Petronius) and the church of Saint John the Baptist. Inside, there are two medieval cloisters, the church of the Holy Trinity and the Museum of St.Stefano. List of the most interesting churches

12 – PALAZZO DELL’ARCHIGINNASIO Piazza Galvani, 1-Archiginnasio Palace

This building was the seat of Bologna University from the 16th century until the 1803 when the offices moved to Palazzo Poggi (Via Zamboni 33). From the 1838 the building housed the Council library. The building is the work of the architect Antonio Morandi, known as “Terribilia”. The Anatomy Theatre, in cedar and deal, forms part of the interior. It was used for the staging of the experiments conducted by the Faculty of Medicine.List of villas, historical residences and palaces

13 – BASILICA DI S. DOMENICO Piazza S. Domenico, 13 – St.Dominic’s church

Its construction began shortly after the death of the Saint (1221). The beauty of the church is mostly attributable to the tomb of Saint Dominic placed inside.

In this magnificent piece of architecture built in different periods are two remarkable pieces: the 13th century sarcophagus by Nicola Pisano and Arnolfo Cambio, representing episodes of the Saint’s life-the crowning by Niccolò da Puglia, who was named “Dell’Arca”-”of the Ark”-after this masterpiece. The candleholder on the right, an angel, was made by Michelangelo. We also reccomend a visit to the wooden choir inlaid by Brother Damiano-Fra Damiano (1528-51), to the “Mystical Wedding of St.Catherine” by Filippino Lippi, to the “Crucifix” by Giunta Pisano and to the 15 “Mysteries of the Rosary”, a collective piece of art created by the painters: Calvart, Cesi, L.Carracci, Reni, Albani, Domenichino e L.Fontana. Outside, you can see the tombs of the “Glossatori” (masters of Roman law): tomb of Rolandino de’Passeggeri and near the wall on the left tomb of Egidio de’Foscherari.

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Lake Iseo, Bergamo, Valle Camonica and Montecampione represent a unique and unrivalled area of Italy so close to the main Ryanair hub of Milan Bergamo yet so unspoilt. Combining Skiing in Montecampione, the breathtaking beauty of Lake Iseo and the attractions, activities and landscape of the Alpine Camonica Valley. All three locations are close together with Montecampione sitting just above Valle Camonica and just north of Lake Iseo.

Lake is Iseo is 16 Km’s long, 250 mts deep and boasts the largest inland Island in Europe and one of Italys top twenty voted port towns (Lovere).

When I first visited BERGAMO I found myself wondering why I’d never heard of it before. Verona, Bologna, Naples are all of International renown…yet Bergamo has something very special to offer which for me eclipses the beauty of many other cities. Why….well in simple terms, the lack of fame makes it quieter and less tourist infested and in addition it’s not a big city so less crowded….but it’s more than that ofcourse….

So here are my 5 reasons to visit Bergamo.
1) The walled high town with its castle, University, cable car, cobbled streets, pedestrian area and varied restaurants offering beautiful views out over the plains of Northen Italy.
2) The excellent shopping area to be found in the low town.
3) The superb location, 10 mins from Milan Bergamo airport (Ryanair Hub) and 40 mins by train from Milan.
4) The hinterland that includes lakes, mountains and varied activities.
5) It’s history and culture rival that of any other Italian town (perhaps with the exception of Milan, Florence and Rome)

LAKE ISEO is my favorite lake, tucked into the Alps just behing Bergamo…so many reason to switch from lake Garda to lake Iseo…Here are my top 5
1) It’s large (16km long) yet not so large you can’t see the other side !
2) It’s cheaper and less touristy…so a real slice of Italy.
3) So much to do from Windsurf to Ferry boating, canoeing, sailing, sunset in Iseo town.
4) It includes two of Italy’s most beautiful villages (that’s official…both voted in top 20) Lover at the top and Iseo town at the bottom.
5) Location, Location, Location….Close to Bergamo, near Montecampione ski resort (winter), and behing is the stunning Camonica Valley full of even more activities including multi pool complexes, treetop rope park, horse riding, Golf, Go karts and much more.
For a full detination report visit the link
Bergamo, Lake Iseo Guide

About the Author
Born in Uganda and raised in the UK. Having spent some time living in Hong Kong and the USA moved to Italy were married with two children. Commercial consultant for Intenational business devlopment

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If you’re looking for a place where you can do something different every day, Lake Garda is the ideal place for you. Lake Garda is blessed with more than 45 km of free beaches in some of the most evocative and celebrated scenery of the whole Europe, insluding medieval towns, historical villas and ancient castle. It is enriched by its green hinterland with pastures and vineyards which produce wines know throughout the world such as Custoza and Bardolino.

The wines produced on the Riviera Veronese of Lake Garda are successfully exported all over the world. The typical ones, granted by brand names of controlled origin are: Bardolino in its versions: Classico, Chiaretto and Novello; the Bianco di Custoza, the Valdadige and the Lugana. Those who intend to stay in the region have te possibility to discover the places where wine is produced, visit the great number of cellars situated along the wine routes and buy wine directrly for the vineyard owners. Wine lovers must absolutely consider a visit to the wine museum in Bardolino to admire the exhibition of historical tools used in the wine production as well as a photo-gallery af all the DOC wines produced in the area of Verona.

In Bardolino throughout the centuries an extraordinaru historical and artistic heritage has formed revealed today by the towers and remains of the scaliger walls, by the beaytiful churches (small masterpieces of Romanesque art) and by the garden parks and Venetian style villas. Gazing across Lake Garda from the town of Desenzano on its southwest bank, the view is quite spectacular. Lake Garda has more in common with southern Italy.

On the southern shore, jutting into Lake Garda, lays Sirmione with its quite cobblestone streets, thermal bats, fairytale castel, olive groves and quite Lake Garda hotels. Some important museum are: the Museo Scaligero at Malcesine, The Civic Museum at Caprino Veronese, Museo Historical Palazzina at Peschiera del Garda, The Napoleonic Museum at Rivoli Veronese, the Archeological Museum at Cavaion Veronese.

The Museum Scaligero located at Torri del Benaco, is veri important for ethnological aspects and it shows some objects connected to the trades carried out int the area: one room shows the activities of the “calafati”, artisans dedicated to repairing fishing boats of inland waters. In the room of the inhabitants there is the story of the fishermen guilds of the ancient inhabitants of Torri and Garda started in 1452 and still working today. One section illustrates the rock graffiti of Lake Garda which has preistoric origins. Inside the castle a small botanical kitchen garden collect the main plants of the environment of the place (sub-Mediterranean vegetation) and, learning on the southern part of the castle we find one of the few greenhouses for citrus fruit still working aroung Garda it dates back to 1760.

The Veronese east bank of the Lake produced olive oil and famous wines, such as Valpolicella and Bardolino. Looming above the areai is Mount Blado with its three peaks. Projecting through the last glacial sheet, its uniwue flora is a throwback to pre- glacial times. The rich soil and mild climate of the Lake area encourages an abundance of wildlife and flora. Cedars, olives, lemonand plam trees flourish and the Gorgeous shoreline offers pristine beaches. Numeros ancient castels dot the hillsides. The cablecar ride to Mount Baldo provides magnificent views of Lake Garda and the mountains beyond experience the thrilling emotions of the amusement parks, enjoy the beauty of the natural and thermal parks, visit places rich in history and culture, enjoy the sight of wonderful landscapes.

Article Source: http://www.articledesk.info

Christopher Panduro Lake Garda Travel guide

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When travelers think of Northern Italy, many things come to mind. Great food and wine, breathtaking mountain views, cool crystal clear lakes. Lake Como, or Lago di Como, as it is known to the Italians is one of the most spectacular of all of these sights. Having said that, a website alone is not adequate to choose a hotel here. It is easy to make a hotel look inviting when the backdrop is drop dead gorgeous, but that does not mean you will not find an alarmingly drab interior in sad contrast to the surrounding splendor. The following hotels have what it takes to compliment their pristine surroundings.

If your goal is to mingle with the rich and famous, without a doubt, your destination is Villa. If you are in the mood for something understated, skip this paragraph and move to the next. Villa D’Este is not your stop. . However, if your curiosity is piqued, have a look. It is an absolutely lovely property. The Villa was built in 1568 as a summer residence for Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio. It later became one of the favorite playgrounds of an Empress, an English Queen and a handful of aristocrats. It was finally transformed into a luxury hotel in 1873, and now has 154 guest rooms and suites with every amenity imaginable. It also has a delightful spa, two sumptuous restaurants, and the best service of any hotel I have visited this year. There’s a celebrity around every corner.

The Grand Hotel Tremezzo is also a lovely and elegant choice. First, it has arguably the most spectacular position on the lake, right at the intersection of where the top of the famous “Y” shape of the lake, meets the stem. From this vantage point, you can see up and down, in and out of every nook and cranny of the lake, and never leave your balcony. If you do venture to a more public part of the hotel, the same view is available from the hotel’s restaurant, bar and terraces. However, for me, the most spectacular amenity of this property is the lake-front, or should I say lake- top pool. What do I mean? Exactly what I’ve said. The pool has been built on pontoons and sits on the lake. The sensation is as mystical as the illusion. You feel like you are being rocked by the gentle currents of the lake, yet you are safely ensconced in a fresh water pool. Truly a lovely way to pass the afternoon.

Hotel Belvedere Bellagio is the classic room with a view that inspires movie directors to use Como as a romantic back-drop. It is one of the smaller, more intimate hotels on Como. It is family owned and operated, and it shows in the warm hospitality and attention to detail. The restaurant is lake-front and makes for lovely indoor and outdoor dining. Request a room with a balcony and full view of the lake to enhance your stay.

My last mention here is Villa Flori. I have not stayed here yet, but I had a sumptuous lunch over-looking a stunningly distracting view. Keep an eye on this property, as will I. I’ll let you know by this Spring if it’s a must-see.

Author Resource: Denise Hummel is an American, who moved to Italy with her husband and children for a one year cross-cultural experience that has expanded to two. Denise Hummel directs a communications business focused on tourism called Imagine Communications.

Article From Article Press

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Italy and Fashion have a very unique and special relationship, and when you consider such names as Dolce&Gabbana, Versace and Armani, to name but a few, it’s not difficult to see why. But if we look back into the history of Italian Fashion, (e.g. see also the article on Nina Ricci) we start to understand what gave Italy such a status in the Fashion World.

Count Giorgini started the ‘Italian Fashion’ craze in 1951, when he organised a fashion show to be presented to an International audience in Florence. He then continued to present other fashion shows at his palace, presenting new collections modelled by nobilty against a backdrop of fine arts and scenery. Nobilty would also model new collections at museums or exhibitions next to famous pieces of fine art. This all contributed to elevating the status of Italian fashion, and implanting in everyone’s minds that Italian fashion gives you status, is very rich in quality,and almost ‘fairytale’ like.

In the 1970s and 1980s Milan made its mark as being the Fashion Capital of Italy, and the phrase Made in Italy became universally recognised as meaning ‘high quality’, and ‘high fashion’. Today there are various fashion trade fairs in Milan, and it is considered by many to be the Fashion Capital of The World.

Juliana de Angelis is a travel writer about Italy…read more articles, travel guides and information about Italy, its people and culture at her website: http://www.madaboutitaly.com/

Book flights, hotels and shop for Italian products at http://www.italianshopsonline.com/

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On the Eastern bank, a few kilometers to the top of the lake, is the normal reservation of the pyramids of the zone, a single formation of the pillars created by unequal glacial erosion. The edge of lake of sixty-kilometer of perimeter is dotted with villages and cities, the principal ones which are Iseo, Sarnico, Lovere, Pisogne and Marone. These cities are full with interest historical and cultural, however it is pleasant to stroll along the walk or to be delayed above a drink in a coffee. There is a variety of sports of water available on the lake and fishing is popular with people of the country, tenches being the estimated hook. There is a good choice of the trails of walk and cycle, and in winter there is of north of ski of lake Iseo in the area of Presolano.

On the eastern bank, a few kilometres up from the lake, is the Natural Reserve of the Pyramids of Zone, a unique formation of pillars created by uneven glacial erosion. The sixty-kilometre perimeter lakeside is dotted with villages and towns, the main ones being Iseo, Sarnico, Lovere, Pisogne and Marone. These towns are full of historical and cultural interest, yet it is pleasant to stroll along the promenade or linger over a drink in a café. There are a variety of water sports available on the Lake and fishing is popular with the locals, tench being the prized catch. There is a good selection of walking and cycling trails, and in Winter there is skiing north of Lake Iseo in the Presolano area.

The fact that Lake Iseo is not well known outside Italy and therefore less touristy makes it more appealing. One of its biggest attractions is Monte Isola, the largest inland lake island in Europe, which is easily reached by ferry and with no cars on the island it is very peaceful, making it ideal for walking or cycling. There are also the Pyramids of Zone, where the erosion of glacial deposits has left pinnacles of earth up to ten metres high. On the western lakeshore are the bogns of Castro and Zorzino, sheets of limestone that plunge into the lake. North of the lake in Val Camino you can see hundreds of prehistoric rock carvings at the National Park of Rock Engravings and to the south of the lake is the Torbiere peat bog and Franciacorta, the area where the renowned sparkling wine is produced.

Author Info:

www.lifeinitaly.com

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The arrival of the New Year is a very good reason to sweep aside heartburns, toss out all regrets and make resolutions. Pretty much everyone sees the year that is about to start as full of new opportunities and hopes for the better. We are more determined to make our lives better, and improve the things or situations we haven’t been very pleased with up to that moment. But no matter what our state of mind regarding the year to come is, we all look forward to the celebration. The arrival of the New Year is not just a means for resolutions, hopes, and new ambitions; it is also an occasion for great celebration. This tradition of welcoming the New Year with a huge celebration has a long history. People have been doing it for many, many years now, and almost very year a new distinctive feature is being added to the way we celebrate the coming of the New Year.

Since most other holidays are perfect occasions for getting together with your family, on New Year’s Eve people tend to look for less intimate ways of celebrating. The New Year’s Eve parties are therefore a little out of the ordinary. And if you are looking for something really special this year, try visiting Italy around New Year’s Eve, or Capodanno, as they call it.

As you probably know, Italy is a famous tourist destination all year round. There are many reasons why people choose to visit or spend their holidays in Italy. The architecture, the popular cuisine, the amazing landscapes, the favourable climate, the water canals with gondolas, the emerging fashion trends, all these make Italy a unique destination. The way Italians celebrate the Capodanno is also spectacular, and some of the most grandiose celebrations will probably take part in the big Italian cities. Milan is a very good choice for the New Year’s Eve celebration. Capodanno Milano can be a truly unique experience.

Milan is “fashion capital of the world”, and so you can imagine the glitz and glamour of this Italian city. In fact, Milan is one of the world’s most stylish and elegant cities, and Capodanno Milano couldn’t be anything less. There will glamorous parties, dazzling firework displays, great music, great food, in other words, all the necessary ingredients for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve party, one that you should definitely not miss.

But Milan is a lot more than just the capital of fashion. The nightlife in Milan is also amazing. We are talking about hundreds of locali notturni, all part of a very wide night scene that undergoes continuous change. One thing is certain about the locali notturni in Milan, and in all Italy for that matter: there will always be something new and attractive to try if nightlife is your thing. Since Italians love variation, these locali notturni are so numerous and so diverse, that there will always be something for all tastes.

All in all, the nightlife in Italy, and especially in Milan is fabulous. And if you’re planning on going to Milan around the holidays, stick around for Capodanno Milano. You won’t be sorry!
Author Resource:- For more resources about locali notturni or especially about Capodanno Milano please review this webpage http://notte.com/

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Italys largest lake is Lake Garda and the most beautiful lake in all Europe. It stretches between the Alps and the Dolomites. The climate is warm in which lemon orchards and olive groves flourish.

It was formed more than 10000 years ago. The lake lies between olive groves vineyards and high mountains. There are five islands on the lake Isola del Garda, Osola dei Conigli, Isola di Sogno, Isola di Trimelone and Isola dellOlivo.

Lake Garda is easily reached whether you travel by train, plane or car. To travel around the lake the public bus covers the whole region. The motorway of northern Italy runs parallel to Lake Garda.

Gardaland is the biggest theme park, in Veneto Italy. The park opened in 1975 and is built on the eastern shore of Lake Garda at Castlenuovo del Garda.
The Vittoriale Museum in the town of Maderno on the Gardone Riviera on the southern coast of Lake Garda was built by Italian nationalist Gabriele Annunzio, who lived from 1863 until 1938. A poet, novelist and librettist. During the war he fought as an infantry soldier, sailor and pilot. His career, which did include his role in the Fascist movement in Italy, is chronicled at the museum.

The towns of Punta San Vigilio and Torri are tourist centres and are medieval towns and therefore have villas, monasteries and castles.

Punta San Vigilio is the jewel in the crown of lake Garda, and is known as one of the most romantic places in the world. In fact, many illustrious visitors have stayed here over the years such as: Maria Luisa Napoleon’s wife, the Tsar Alexander, the King of Naples, Luigi Einaudi, Winston Churchill, Lawrence Olivier, Kin Juan Carlos and the English Royal family.

Like most of the towns around the lake Torri has a castle. Formerly the seat of government for Benaco. It is also used for civil functions. There are two churches in Torri de Benaco, which one can visit or attend services. They often host exhibitions and concerts free of charge.

The town of Garda is very picturesque and is a old town situated on the lake. There is a local bus which is free of charge and goes around the town every 30 minutes. Lots of restaurants which all sell pasta and ice cream. Windsurfing is hugely popular on the Lake and cover the whole lake at the Riva del Garda end.
Author Resource:- Douglas Scott writes for car rentals the car hire specialist. and also writes for the villa rental site

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Unique Points Bergamo is a beautiful city, with a medieval hilltop old town. It is easily reached by Ryanair flights from Glasgow, London, Paris, Girona, Brussels, Frankfurt, Hamburg and Stockholm, making it an ideal short break destination. The airport is near the city and can be reached by regular buses, costing around one euro. The walled old town, reached by funicular, is well preserved. The Academia Carrera is said to be one of the best collections of art in Italy. The surrounding countryside is very beautiful; there are churches in many small villages with medival frescoes and paintings. Nearby is Lake Iseo, which has the largest lake island in Europe. The famous Valpolicella and Franciacorta wines are produced locally. North of the city are the Pre Alps and the Valle Brembana.

History of Bergamo
Bergamo is a real life tale of two cities: Bergamo Alta, the beautiful walled hilltop medieval city, and Bergamo Bassa, the lower city, built mainly at the beginning of the 20th century. Bergamo has long been acknowledged as a beautiful city. The 14th century Italian scholar, poet and humanist, Francesco Petrarca remarked, “I shall always remember the image of Bergamo, Italy’s alpine town.” This is praise indeed as Petrarch is regarded as one of Italy’s great scholars and a leading contributor the in the development of the Renaissance.

Bergamo, originally known as Barra, is said to have founded by Cydno, the son of the founder of the Liguri family. The Etruscans turned the city into a fortress in the sixth century BC. Its location made it ideal as they could see right over the plains below and spot any advancing enemy. Later that century the city was taken over by the Cenomani Gauls, who renamed it Berghem (‘city on the mountain’). The spread of the Roman Empire brought about a slight change in name to Bergomum and it was during this period that the first walls were built around the city. The city was dominated by the Longobards and Franks before becoming a free town in the 12th century. However for several centuries from 1428 the Venetians dominated Bergamo. This was a long period of social, political and cultural wealth. The walls were rebuilt in the 16th century by the Republic of Venice. During the French Revolution Bergamo was part of the French Cisalpine Republic. After the Congress of Vienna the Austrians ruled until the unification of Italy in 1859.

The heart of the old town is 15th century Piazza Vecchia. The main entrance is the Sant’Agostino’s gate, the walls extend for more than five kilometres and there are four gates. The portico of the Palazzo della Ragione, which sits in Piazza Vecchia, dates from the 12th century. The potico leads in to the Piazza del Duomo. Here is the church of Santa Maria also dating from the 12th century. The church has an octagonal dome. There are still traces of the original frescoes depicting the “tree of life”. The wooden confessional was produced in 1705 by Andrea Fontani. Bergamo’s favourite musical son Donizetti’s tomb is at the back of the church. Gaetano Donizetti was born in 1797 just outside the city walls, at the start of Borgo Canale. He produced more then seventy compositions “Elisir d’Amore” (1832) “Lucia di Lammermoor” (1835). It is said that he was always emotionally attached to Bergamo. The Donizetti Theatre, named in his honour, hosts an international piano festival.

Colleoni Chapel is another fine example of Rennaisance architecture. Bartolomeo Colleoni, born in Bergamo, commissioned this as his tomb. The building was completed in 1476. Colleoni is portrayed on a golden horse. He is usually referred to as a “soldier of fortune”, a less harsh description than mercenary. This may be because he was regarded as fairly respectable, as although he changed sides, he never committed any treacherous acts or rape and executions in the defeated territories. His father was attacked and murdered when Bartolomeo was young, by the Duke of Milan. He spent several years as a young man serving in various armies. At the age of 32 he joined the army of the Venetian Republic. He was also known for his work on agricultural improvements made to the land on the estates given to him as reward by the Venetians.

The Venetian Lorenzo Lotto worked here in 1525. Lotto’s work encompassed the work of Bramante, Raffaello and Leonardi. Lorenzo Lotto spent 12 years working in Bergamo. Although originally from Venice, he considered Bergamo to be his spiritual home, appreciating its down to earth approach to religion and faith. In 1525 he worked on the Episode from the life of Mary in the Church San Michele al Pozzo Bianco. Several churches in Bergamo are adorned with his altarpieces. Itineraries on a Lotto theme can be found here.

Accademia Carrara is one of the most important galleries in Italy. It was founded in 1796 by Count Carrara. It now houses more than 18000 pieces, including pieces by Botticelli, Raffaello,Bellini and Donatello. There are also works by foreign artists such as Rubens and Clouet.

The Accademia is also the Bergamo Museum. There are paintings depicting the town from the 15th to the 19th century. The Gallery of Modern Art is nearby.

The Gruppo Guide Città di Bergamo, tel 035 249553, offer half day and full day tours. They have English, German, Spanish and French guides.

Every Sunday from 25th April 2004, you can take a guided tour of historic homes in Bergamo, the Tour Dimore Storiche. A ticket for all five residences cost 16 euros, for three residences the cost is 12 euros.

Accommodation in Bergamo

Hotel Cappello d’Oro
This four star hotel is in the centre of the lower town, a few minutes walk from the funicular railway up to the old town and the railway station. The rooms are very comfortable with tea and coffee making facilities. Prices start from 150 euros per night for a double room and buffet breakfast. Residence Giva This renovated traditional apartment block is located around 500 metres from the centre of Bergamo and around one kilometre from the medieval part of the city. Bergamo is an ideal base from which to visit the Lakes, Verona and Milan. There are frequent trains to most destinations or if you prefer to tour by car, parking is available close to the residence. The apartments are elegantly furnished. An apartment for two costs 100 euros per night or 500 euros per week. Castello di Grumello, near Bergamo The rooms inside the castle cost 82 euros per person per night, including breakfast. If you stay in a room in the grounds, in a 19th century building 50 metres from the castle with view of the vineyards, the cost is 60 euros per person per night.

Where to eat in Bergamo Da Vittorio, Viale Giovanni XX111 21, tel: 035 218060. This is a long established restaurant in the old town. A few of their specialties are oxtail tureen, pumpkin flowers in sauce as well as outstanding seafood. It is an unpretentious family run concern.

Lio Pellegrini, Via San Tommaso 47, tel 035 247813. This restaurant is situated in a 16th century sacristy, close to Accademia Carrara in the lower town, it has a lovely garden for summer dining. They serve numerous types of pasta and some really tempting desserts.

Ol Giopi e la Margi, Via Borgo Palazzo 27, tel 035 242366 This popular restaurant is decorated in typical country style and waiting staff wear traditional costume. They havea good choice of menus , a business lunch, a traditional meal and three gastronomic menus. The menus change every season. The restaurant is closed on Sunday evening and Mondays.

Osteria San Rocco, Via S Rocco, 11 Rancia, tel 035 510067 This restaurant is situated in the hills, five kilometres from Bergamo. You can view the menu on their website.

Day trips from Bergamo

Crespi d’Adda

This factory and village was built in the late 19th century by the Crespi family as an industrial utopia. The life of the workers, their families and the community were planned in order and harmony. In theory ensuring that the workers would be productive and content and the factory owners could make a healthy profit with a clear conscience. The experiment ended in the 1920s but the village, now listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is still inhabited, predominantly by the descendents of the original village. The factory is still operational, producing cotton textiles. The village is around a half hour drive from Bergamo. It can be reached by public transport, you take the Autostrade bus direction Milan, you get off at the Capriate bus stop and then it’s a twenty minute walk to the village. You can read more about the village on their website.

Castello di Grumello

This castle overlooks the village of Grumello del Monte and the surrounding vineyards. The parish church in the village dates form the 7th century. It is in the heart of the Valcalepio region. The castle has a long and bloody history. However in the 18th century the castle was transformed in to a noble residence. The tower, the back gate, the Knights Hall and the cellar still remain from the original medieval fortress.

If you call ahead, tel 035 442 0817, you can arrange a visit to the wine cellar and the castle. They will explain how the wine is made and tasting of the various wines. This costs eight euros per person. There is also a pleasant walk through the vineyards to the crest of the “Colle Calvario”.

Lake Iseo

The lesser known, smaller Lake Iseo is ideal for a day trip from Bergamo. You can read more about the lake in my guide.

If you have a hire car you can drive around the Lake in a day. You can reach Iseo town by bus from Bergamo. On specific Sundays in 2004, the 5th, 9th and 19th, there is a trip from Bergamo to Lake Iseo. You travel by regular train from Bergamo to Palazzo, where you pick up the Treno Blu to Sarnico. There are four options available once you arrive at the Lake, including a visit to the lake island, Monte Isola.

Valle Brembana

The valley consists of several smaller valleys.

The Val San Pellegrino Terme: San Pellegrino is best known for its sparkling water. At the end of the 19th century San Pellegrino was the most visited spa town in northern Italy. There were art nouveau hotels and a casino designed by Romolo Squadrelli. The casino is now a conference and exhibition centre. The Val Serina has an unusual landscape for the Orobic Prealps with jagged white peaks. Bracca mineral water springs from the Bracca ravine. At the top of this gorge the valley widens and there are some rare wild flowers. The Gromo castle overlooks the River Serio has an intact 13th century tower. To visit you must telephone the Posta Castle Restaurant, tel 0346 41002.

Cornello dei Tasso is a well-preserved medieval village. It was an inn station along the main trading route. In the lower part of the village is the market square with its arches and merchants’ lodgings, some still bearing the coat of arms of the Tasso family. The village was home to the Tasso family who are said to be the inventors of the postal service. At first mail was carried by foot, later the service started to use horses with despatch riders and then mail coaches. A private company was formed, the Compagnia dei Corrieri, which won contracts to carry mail in the Republic of Venice and later in the 15th century, contracts in the Papal States and the Hapsburg Empire. Val Taleggio e Brembilla is nicknamed the Cheese Valley, as traditional cheeses are produced here. Formai de Mut is a rich, half cooked paste cheese with a delicate scented flavour. During the summer it is made in alpine huts, near the high grazing pastures. Taleggio cheese is a rich soft paste cheese made with whole cows’ milk. One of the characteristic dishes of the region is Polenta Taragna, where the cheese is melted with butter in the maize porridge.

Val Fondra is on the eastern side of high part of the Bremba Valley, traditionally the location of ancient mines and forges. The ski resort of San Simone and Foppolo are in this valley.

The Museum of Christmas Cribs, Museo del Presepio, in Brembo di Dalmine, is unique with over 800 cribs on display. There is even an electronic crib covering 80 square metres, with a seventeen minute spectacle. In December and January it is open on Sundays and public holidays form 9.00 – 12.00 and 14.00 – 19.00. The rest of the year it is only open on a Sunday 14.00 – 18.00. The museum is around ten kilometres from Bergamo.

Useful Information

Bergamo Tourist Office, Viale Vittorio Emanuele, (the main road from the station up to the old town), tel 035 230 184.

Karen is a travel writer and consultant specialising in planning tailor made travel to undiscovered Europe. Her site is http://www.europealacarte.co.uk

Article source: Expert Articles

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