Culture

Lakes, Historic Cities & Northern Italian Elegance — All Easily Done in a Day Old Town of Vigevano Milan is one of Italy’s most underrated rail hubs. From its main stations, frequent regional and high-speed trains connect the city to lakes, medieval towns and refined historic centres — often in well under an hour — making it ideal for travellers who want variety without constant hotel changes. Como: Lake Views, Elegant Streets & Mountain Backdrops Getting there by train Depar

Marseille is one of France’s most vibrant coastal cities: a mix of Mediterranean sunshine, sea views, colourful neighbourhoods, excellent seafood and fascinating cultural layers. With fast rail connections from Paris, Lyon, Nice and Avignon, it is a perfect weekend destination without needing a car. The city is walkable in many parts, well connected by metro and bus, and full of scenic waterfront strolls. This guide covers what to see, where to eat, what local dishes really a

Arles is one of Provence’s most atmospheric small cities — Roman monuments, golden stone streets, colourful markets and the artistic legacy of Van Gogh. With direct trains from Avignon, Nîmes, Marseille and Montpellier, Arles is an easy and inspiring weekend destination without needing a car. The city is walkable, warm, and full of heritage. This guide covers what to see, where to eat, classic Provençal dishes, where to stay, how to explore beyond the city, and how to arrive

If you love the idea of Siena’s Palio but want something more intimate, more local, and far easier to enjoy as an independent traveler, the Palio dei Rioni in Castiglion Fiorentino is one of Tuscany’s best-kept secrets. Held each June, this historic festival combines deep-rooted tradition, fierce neighborhood pride, and a thrilling horse race—without the overwhelming crowds of Italy’s most famous events. Set in eastern Tuscany between Arezzo and Cortona, Castiglion Fiorentino

Ile Barbe Lyon is celebrated as France’s gastronomic capital, but beyond its famous bouchons and UNESCO-listed old town lies a more intimate, creative and deeply local city. Hidden passageways, hillside villages, former industrial districts and neighbourhood markets make Lyon ideal for a weekend of discovery away from the main tourist trail — all easily explored by train, metro and on foot.This guide covers what to see, how to get around, cultural context, lesser-known neighb

Venice Carnival is one of Europe’s most atmospheric winter festivals — a city-wide celebration of masks, mystery, music and late-night revelry played out across canals, squares and historic palaces. Even just weeks before Carnival, it is still possible to plan a memorable trip if you know where to stay, what to prioritise, and how to avoid the most expensive mistakes . This guide explains what Carnival is really about, what happens day and night, how to book accommodation las

The Paris Belt Railway - La Petite Centure Paris is world-famous for its iconic museums and landmarks, but beyond the Louvre and Eiffel Tower lies a quieter, more creative city full of unusual museums, independent galleries, neighbourhood markets and unexpected cultural spaces. With excellent public transport and walkable districts, Paris is ideal for a weekend exploring its lesser-known artistic side — entirely without a car.This guide covers what to see, how to get around,

Pompeii and Herculaneum are two of the most extraordinary archaeological sites in the world, offering an unparalleled glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome. Both are easily reached from Naples by local train, making it possible to explore these UNESCO-listed sites independently, without a car or organised tour.This guide covers why to visit both sites, how to get there by train, what to expect, key highlights (including the Villa of the Mysteries), cultural context, and how

Venice in winter is one of Europe’s most atmospheric escapes. With misty canals, empty alleys, quiet museums and soft lagoon light, the city feels peaceful and deeply romantic — a completely different experience from the busy summer months. Trains arrive directly at the Grand Canal, making Venice an easy and enchanting weekend break without needing a car. This guide covers what to see, how to get around, what Venetian dishes really are, where to eat, where to stay, and how to

Siena’s Palio is one of Italy’s most spectacular cultural events — a centuries-old horse race between the city’s 17 contrade (neighbourhoods), held twice a year in the stunning Piazza del Campo. But the weeks leading up to the Palio  are just as fascinating. With Siena easily reached by train from Florence, Pisa and Chiusi, visiting during preparations gives you an intimate look at tradition, pride and community. This guide explains what happens before the Palio, how to exper

Nice Carnival is one of the world’s great winter festivals — dazzling floats, giant sculptures, costumed dancers, flower battles and Mediterranean sunshine. Held every February, it transforms Nice into a colourful, joyful celebration. With direct trains from all over France, it’s one of the easiest major festivals to reach without a car. This guide covers what to see, where to eat, regional dishes, where to stay, how to enjoy the parades, and how to arrive smoothly by train.

Saone River, Lyon Lyon is France’s gastronomic capital and one of the easiest major cities to reach and explore by train. With two major stations, an efficient metro system and a compact, walkable city centre, it offers the perfect mix of culture, riverfront scenery and exceptional food. Whether you are visiting for a relaxed short break or a food-focused weekend, Lyon is a rewarding and easy destination without the need for a car. This guide covers what to see, where to eat,

Florence in winter is a dream — quieter streets, golden light on the Arno, and art and food that warm you from the inside out. Here’s your perfect two-day itinerary to experience the city’s soul at a slower, more intimate pace — by train, of course. Day 1: Renaissance Wonders & Cozy Corners Morning – Discover Fra Angelico at Palazzo Strozzi Step straight into Florence’s artistic heart at the Palazzo Strozzi , where the exhibition “Angelico: The Dawn of the Renaissance”  runs

Anghiari Follow in the footsteps of Renaissance master Piero della Francesca  through eastern Tuscany and Umbria. From Arezzo to Sansepolcro, Anghiari, Monterchi, and Città di Castello, this journey weaves art, landscapes, and timeless hill towns. Why Go? This route combines art, gentle countryside, and authentic small towns rarely on tourist itineraries — all accessible from Arezzo by local train or bus. A bit of History Piero della Francesca (1412–1492) was one of the early

Naples and Vesuvius at Sunset Naples is Italy at full volume — chaotic, historic, and irresistibly alive. Beneath its buzzing streets lies centuries of art, food, and folklore. A weekend here immerses you in everything from Baroque churches to pizza straight from the oven. Why Go? Naples is more than Pompeii’s gateway — it’s one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, rich with art, archaeology, and legendary food. A bit of History Founded by the Greeks in the 8th century BC, Naples

Tucked between mountains and sea, Genoa (Genova)  rewards slow exploration. Its medieval alleys hide marble palaces, bohemian cafés, and the scent of fresh basil and sea salt. Known as La Superba  (“The Proud One”), Genoa’s history is as grand as its harbor. Once one of the great maritime republics alongside Venice, Pisa, and Amalfi, Genoa dominated Mediterranean trade from the 11th to the 17th centuries. Its powerful merchant families built the magnificent Palazzi dei Rolli

Venice isn’t just its canals — the lagoon hides a trio of islands, each with its own character. Murano is famed for glass, Burano for colorful houses and lace, and Torcello for ancient churches. Together, they make an unforgettable day trip. Burano Island at dusk Why Go These islands offer a break from Venice’s crowds while showing the lagoon’s history and culture. Each is easily reached by vaporetto. A bit of History Murano has been Venice’s glassmaking hub since 1291. Buran

High above the Adriatic coast, San Marino is a tiny independent republic with medieval towers, cobbled streets, and sweeping views. It’s one of Europe’s quirkiest day trips, and you can get there easily by train and bus from Rimini. Guaita, First Tower of San Marino Why Go? San Marino offers history, architecture, and unique status as the world’s oldest continuous republic. It’s a chance to visit another country while exploring Italy. A bit of History Founded in 301 AD by St.

Venice in autumn has a special magic—crisper air, softer light, and far fewer day-trippers than in high summer. The 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale (10 May–23 Nov) fills the Giardini and Arsenale with international art and design, making the city a living exhibition. With fewer crowds and golden reflections on the canals, it’s the perfect time to visit by train. Quiet evening in Venice La Biennale was founded in 1895 to showcase Italian art, and it has grown into one of the

Pompeii Naples is the perfect base for exploring some of the world’s most famous Roman ruins. Just a short train ride away, Pompeii and Herculaneum reveal entire cities frozen by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Combine them with the National Archaeological Museum of Naples , which houses the best-preserved treasures from both sites. September and autumn bring cooler weather and fewer crowds, making it the ideal time to wander ancient streets. What to Expect Frequent