Italy

Rome is magical in summer, but even the Eternal City can feel a little too eternal when the temperatures rise. The good news? In under an hour or two by train, you can be swimming in a volcanic lake, sipping white wine in a shaded vineyard, or exploring a medieval village where the only crowds are local cats. Castel Gandolfo & Lake Albano Here are five easy, car-free day trips from Rome perfect for hot summer days — all accessible by train. 🌳 1. Castel Gandolfo & Lake Alban

Naples in summer  can be intense - sizzling heat and buzzing crowds in the city’s historic centre. But when the heat peaks or the pace becomes a little too much, you're just a short train ride away  from breezy coastlines, archaeological wonders, and shaded palace gardens. Whether you're staying in Naples for a few days or using it as a hub, here are 5 easy day trips you can take by train  to explore more of Campania  without the need for a car. 🚆 1. Sorrento Why go: For cli

If you're a fan of vintage treasures, Tuscan towns, and off-the-beaten-path experiences, the Arezzo Antiques Fair  (Fiera Antiquaria di Arezzo) is your perfect excuse to hop off the Florence–Rome route and explore one of Tuscany’s most underrated gems — all easily reached by train. Arezzo Antiques Fair 📅 Upcoming 2025 Dates The fair takes place on the first weekend of every month , including both Saturday and Sunday. For 2025, here are some key dates to mark: August 2–3 Sept

If you’re heading to Italy this summer and want to experience local life beyond the usual tourist sites, don’t miss the country’s vibrant food markets . They’re where Italy comes alive in color, flavor, and noise—and many of the best are just a short walk from Italy’s major train stations. Here are 5 summer food markets  in and around Rome, Tuscany, Florence, Venice, and Naples  that are easy to reach and full of authentic experiences. 🏆 1. Mercato Testaccio – Rome   Where:

Summer in Italy isn’t just about sun and scenery—it’s also the season of festivals. From medieval parades and opera under the stars to local food fairs and jazz legends, Tuscany and Umbria come alive with authentic cultural experiences in July and August. The best part? Many of these unforgettable events are easy to reach by train. Here’s your guide to top summer festivals you can enjoy car-free this summer. 🎼 Umbria Jazz Festival — Perugia When:  July 12–21, 2025 Why Go:  O

Tuscany in summer is iconic—rolling golden hills, hilltop towns glowing in the afternoon sun, and vineyards heavy with grapes. While many locals escape to the coast during July and August, this creates a perfect opportunity for independent travellers to explore inland Tuscany by train, with fewer crowds, peaceful streets, and access to some of the region’s most authentic experiences. And the best part? You can do it all without a car . Early morning over the Chianti region 🌾

Each summer, the medieval city of Siena transforms into the stage for Italy's most famous horse race: the Palio di Siena. Held twice a year, the event is more than just a sporting spectacle—it's a centuries-old tradition packed with drama, color, and deep local pride. The first Palio of the season took place on July 2 , and the city is now preparing for the second and even more anticipated race on August 16, 2025 . Best of all, Siena is entirely accessible by train, making th

Summer in Venice  offers quiet corners, breezy beaches, open-air art, and a slower rhythm you can actually enjoy. With the right timing and a Vaporetto pass in hand, Venice in July and August becomes an unexpectedly serene escape. 🌊 Cool Off: Beaches & Outer Islands When the heat rises in the city, head to the water. Lido di Venezia : Just 15 minutes by Vaporetto from San Marco. Rent a bike, hit the beach, or sip a spritz at Hotel Excelsior’s beachfront. Sant’Erasmo : Known