Italy
Italy has a special place in my heart. I am from Rome and I have called Italy home for over 40 years. I have experienced it as a local, I had the privilege of studying its history in University (I am a Roman history graduate from the University of Rome) and I have traveled Italy extensively on my own, with friends and now with my husband and kids. As you can imagine, this means I have quite a lot to say about it! So much so, that I have now this large section on this website about it, but also two dedicated websites: MamaLovesItaly.com and MamaLovesRome.com with even more guides!
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How to visit Ostia Antica from Rome and why you should not miss it
One of the most beautiful ancient sites near Rome and a real treat for history lovers is the ancient town of Ostia Antica. Located just outside of Rome city centre, Ostia Antica is the ancient port of Rome and now has two areas worth visiting: the archaeological park and the ‘borgo‘. This is one of my favorite places in the whole of Italy and one that is really easy to visit from Rome. Here, ancient cobbled roads stretch along rows of pine trees, mosaics embellish the remains of historical dwellings and Roman statues bear witness to the busy life this port city used to be home to. In this post,…
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Packing list for Italy in winter to be comfortable and stylish
What to wear in Italy in winter? What will the weather be like and what type of jacket do I need? In this post I share my packing list for Italy in winter and expert tips on what to wear in Italy in the winter months, to feel comfortable and stylish. Deciding what to wear in Italy in winter is often less straightforward than people realize. Italy is know for being blessed by Mediterranean weather and, in general, sees winters that are less harsh than in many other parts of the world. However, Italy stretches North to South and has cities, mountains and islands, each with distinctive weather. Packing for…
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How to spend a perfect day in Capri, Italy
Tried and tested itinerary for one day in Capri seeing the best of the island: nature, history and must-do activities for the perfect Capri experience! If you are looking for a special stop to add to your Italian trip itinerary, I highly recommend you schedule one day in Capri. Blessed with a gorgeous position in the Southern Mediterranean, Capri is a vision: blinding white light bouncing off cobalt blue sea, bursts of fuchsia cascading from white washed terraces and bright yellow lemon trees all contribute to the island’s stunning palette creating the perfect Mediterranean hideaway. You may notice how my description doesn’t dwell on the expensive shop and glamorous cafes…
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10 day Italy itinerary ideas you will love
Perfect 10 day Italy itinerary for first-time visitors: a classic itinerary through Italy's most famous and iconic cities and landscapes
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Why and how to visit Burano, island of colours and a lace
With all there is to see in Venice you may wonder if it is worth making time for a trip to Burano. In this article, we share why we believe Burano island of colors and lace should be part of your Italian itinerary. One of the prettiest and most atmospheric places we have visited in Italy is the small island of Burano, near Venice. Tiny and unassuming, Burano sits in the Venetian lagoon and is famous for the ancient craft of lace-making, as well as its chocolate box, picture-perfect look, made of colorful houses and romantic canals. We visited Burano in December, at a time when the cold enters your…
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22 facts about Venice for kids (and curious adults)
Interesting facts about Venice for kids and curious adults. Do you know why Venice roads are so narrow? And what symbols hide in the peculiar shape of the gondolas? Here some facts and curiosities about Venice, Italy. If you are into fun facts and trivia, Venice is a bit of a treat. With symbols and hidden meaning pretty much at every corner, you can spend a lifetime in Venice and still not truly know all about this exceptional city. The following are some of the facts we learned during our several stays in Venice. Over the the years, we have explored Venice with the help of local guides, we have…
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Venice with a baby or toddler: Venice travel tips for families with small children
All you need to know to visit Venice with a baby of toddlers. Baby friendly Venice hotels, best things to do in Venice with toddlers, baby and toddlers travel tips for Venice, Italy If you are reading this article about visiting Venice with a baby or toddler, chances are you have some concerns about how baby friendly Venice, this magical yet unusual city, may be. Indeed, a city on water doesn’t strike as the most toddler friendly destination however, Venice is surprisingly family friendly and, with the right tips, you can have a wonderful stay here. We have visited Venice with our children several times: these are our top tips…
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The best things to do in Rome with kids: must see, top actives and unexpected attractions you’ll love
50 awesome things to do in Rome with kids: family friendly sites and activities for teenagers and older kids for an uforgettable trip to Rome
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The best time to visit Milan and what to expect in each season
Our guide to the best time to visit Milan, what to expect in each season and what to pack to feel comfortable and stylish when visiting Milan, Italy. Milan is not known for great weather. The second largest city in Italy sits at the North of the Italian peninsula and while it does get some gorgeous days, it is also known for gray winters and hot summers. After spending freezing days and scorching hot ones in the city, these are my tips on the best time to visit Milan. Disclaimer: this post contains affiliate links and if you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission at…
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Essential family guide to visiting Milan with kids
Our guide to visiting Milan with kids. Find out the best time to visit Milan, the best things to do in Milan with children and the best family hotels in Milan in this essential family guide for visitors to Italy’s second largest city. [Updated in 2024] Milan is often overlooked as a family destination. Famous for fashion and industry, visitors tend to use the city as a base for day trips and excursions to the lakes, rather than a destination itself, and often think about it as a city for grown-ups and business people rather than children. Indeed, I myself enjoyed Milan most when I visited without children in tow but…
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Fun facts about Sicily for kids adults will love too
Fun and interesting facts about Sicily for kids perfect for homeschooling and family trivia. Learn what Sicily is famous for, Sicily's geography, history, food and more
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Rome off the beaten path: hidden gems of Rome most visitors never see (but should!)
A local’s guide to discover Rome off the beaten path. Real hidden gems in Rome and stunning corners most visitors never see, but definitely should! And so you have done it! You have visited the Colosseum, the Vatican and have pictures of Rome’s must see sites. You have eyes full of Rome’s most iconic views but now you are wondering: what is there to do in Rome off the beaten path? Any Rome hidden gems worth seeing? The answer to this question is a resounding yes. Venturing off the beaten path in Rome is definitely worth it and can easily be included in your Rome itinerary even if you only have…
