Camogli is a beach town just one hour East of Genoa, you know, one of these typical fishing villages with tall, colorful houses that make Italy so picturesque and lovable and are just the perfect destination for an amazing day trip.
The old port of Camogli: Italy just like praised in romantic songs.
Also, it’s definitely not by mistake that the bay that stretches from Genoa all the way to Portofino was named Golfo Paradiso, if you know what I mean.
Hence, let me guide you to beautiful Camogli so you can easily spend a day in paradise.
As the Republic of Venice built its palaces in the lagoon, another maritime power gazed out over the Mediterranean further west: Genoa. Here, nestled between steep hills and the open sea, a city arose that for centuries thrived on trade, ships, and the courage of its merchants. So let me show you what not to miss on a visit since even today, Genoa feels like a hidden chapter of Italian history—less overrun than Venice, but all the more rugged, authentic, and surprisingly multifaceted.
Genoa is a jumble of all the elements you can see in this busy picture.
However, Genoa is not a place that reveals its charm and beauty right at first glance. But that is precisely its allure. Meander through streets between splendor and patina. Lose all sense of time and space in the maritime whirlwind of a glorious past and an enchanting present. This is Genoa, the Queen of Liguria.
Venice on a budget? Is that even possible? Agreed, visiting Venice can be pretty pricey. After all, you find yourself at one of the world’s most unique places – and it comes with a price tag.
Every visitor to Venice will know this sight: The Chiesa di San Simeon Piccolo across from the main train station Venezia Santa Lucia, photographed from the Ponte degli Scalzi.
However, if you follow my simple hacks, visiting Venice on a budget is easy and still very enjoyable.
The Biennale di Arte, one of the world’s most important art events, takes place every two years. Although Venice is certainly a place worth visiting even when nothing special is on, my post on how to visit the city during the Biennale 2026 will make your trip even more memorable.
I love Italy: the Renaissance, the coastal landscapes, the gelato, the dolce far niente. Somehow, I’m tangled in these clichés like a fork in a heap of spaghetti. The amazing thing is, on my frequent trips to Bella Italia, I actually encounter all these images. For example, in the picturesque lake district of Northern Italy. Need proof? Here’s a comprehensive travel guide to the breathtaking Lake Como – truly a lake to like.
Blue waters, charming villages, and the snow-capped mountain tops in the background: That’s what Lake Como is all about. This Way to the Whole Story ->
Of all Italian cities, Milan probably deems the least what we consider Italian. No jolly groups sipping Aperol Spritz while playing boccia. Instead, executives rush from their stately apartment houses to offices in glittering business centers. Hardly a narrow cobblestone alley. Rather big cars on broad avenues. Money makes the world Milan go round.
Piazza del Duomo – with the iconic cathedral.
And yet, if you visit with an open mind, Milan will by no means disappoint: Get the big picture from the roof of the Duomo, and enjoy contemporary art at various industrial sites that were transformed into humongous art galleries. Window shop at the posh Brera district or the fabulous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Admire Leonardo da Vinci’s Cenacolo, hence, the Last Supper. Oh, talking ’bout food: Finish a long day of sightseeing with a relaxed Milanese Aperitivo in one of the countless bars alongside the Navigli, the city’s old waterways. Sounds like a plan? Mind you, these are only a few of the best things you should do in Milan on a long weekend!
Ma certo, one week is quite tight when it comes to a trip to Sicily, even if you limit your visit to the very best places. The island at the southern tip of mainland Italy has more to offer than you would find in many entire countries! Did you know that Sicily has seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites? These excellent locations are so different that there is something for everyone. Whether it is the ancient archaeological sites in Syracuse, the artistic mosaics of the Villa Romana del Casale near Armerina, the baroque center of Noto, or the Aeolian Islands – you will be amazed!
Palermo’s Kalsa district.
But in addition to these fantastic sites, you should, of course, also make time to laze on the beach in Taormina and enjoy a delicious aperitivo in the evening during the sunset. After all, the Dolce Vita is as much a part of Italy as pizza and pasta. So that you don’t lose track of all these fantastic options, I have put together an itinerary for you with the best places that you should definitely visit in one week in Sicily. If you have more time, even better – you won’t be bored for a second, believe me!
In this post, I’m taking you on a trip to Syracuse to explore the ancient wonders and coastal charms of Sicily. However, this city on the island’s southeastern coast isn’t just for history buffs! Its markets burst with local flavors while its sun-soaked piazze invite leisure’n’pleasure. And as the sun slowly sets, bathing the historic buildings in a burning golden light, the coast of Syracuse shines in its radiant splendor, waiting for you with a delicious dinner by the sea.
Piazza del Duomo on the Ortigia peninsula – probably the most iconic square in Syracuse.
Few places can match Syracuse’s ability to captivate both mind and heart. It’s not just a destination—it’s a journey through time and an invitation to experience Italy’s legendary dolce vita at its most enchanting. Syracuse is Sicily at its finest!
Although often overlooked and definitely underrated, Catania is a city full of beauty, history, and, on clear days, magnificent views of Mount Etna. In particular, the palaces constructed during the Baroque period after the city was rebuilt following the devastating earthquake of 1693 reflect the city’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. Although there is no generally accepted exact number, there are certainly around 50 notable palaces in and around the city.
Waterbearer at the Fontana dell’Amenano, a Baroque fountain with mythical figures created by Tito Angelini.
Apart from the famous palaces such as the Palazzo Biscari, the Palazzo degli Elefanti, and the Palazzo Minoriti, there are numerous smaller and lesser-known ones scattered throughout the city. Many of these are privately owned and have been converted for business purposes. That’s why, even as a self-proclaimed Poverty Jetsetter, I was able to spend a restful night in a real Italian Palazzo! More about that – and all the other marvels of Catania – in this post.
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