The 5 Pillars of Planning a Destination Wedding in Italy

BY  Sibashree Jun 23, 2025

Italy, like many other European countries, is fighting overtourism with increased taxes, visa rejections, and squirt guns.   While Rome, Florence, and Venice continue to battle with this problem, off-beat locations such as Monopoli, Italy, can be a boost to Italian tourism, which contributed a whopping €223.1 billion to the economy of the country.   Furthermore, thanks to the latest online buzz, Monopoli, Italy, or the #HEARTHOFPUGLIA, is now emerging as the “New Santorini.” With a much calmer vibe, of course!  Also, along the Adriatic City, this Southern Italian city is a wonderful blend of natural beauty, culture, and history.   In addition, this quaint borough of fishermen boasts noble palaces that will take you back to the 18th century.   Moreover, it offers the ultimate Italian experience with relaxation.   So, are you ready for a trip to this beautiful coastal town? This Tour and Travel Guide has everything you need to know. Where Is Monopoli, Italy? Monopoli is in the Bari Province of the Puglia region in Italy. Also, it is on the Adriatic Sea, and it has the most beautiful coastal landscape with a pleasant Mediterranean climate.   Furthermore, Monopoli is well connected to all the nearby cities through boats, trains, buses, and cars.   Also, you can use Monopoli as the base for exploring nearby attractions such as Ostuni, Alberobello, and Matera.   What Is The Best Time To Visit Monopoli, Italy?  May, June, and September are the best months for a visit to Monopoli, Italy. These months bless you with pleasant weather conditions. Also, these months are ideal for bypassing the extreme crowd in July and August, which are the peak months.   So, do you want to know about the weather conditions of Monopoli in detail? Have a look at the table below.   Months Highest Temperature Lowest Temperature January 13 6 February 14 7 March 16 8 April 20 10 May 25 13 June 31 19 July  34 20 August 33 20 September 28 16 October 23 14 November 18 10 December 15 7  How Did Monopoli, Italy, Get Its Name? A Glimpse Of The History Monopoli’s Greek connection is not limited to being dubbed as the new Santorini. It has got its name from Monos Polos, which in Greek meant a single harbor.   Further, inhabited for thousands of years now, Monopoli, Italy, has a history dating back to the Roman and Greek periods. Also, it always has been strategically important as a port town since antiquity.   However, the Romans called this town “Apulia,” and it grew as a critical trading post thanks to its closeness to the Mediterranean Sea.   Also, being a port city and a part of Southern Italy, Monopoli had an encounter with various cultures, such as:  Byzantines  Normans  Spanish  So, each civilization left a deep mark on the city and contributed to developing its cultural and architectural richness.   Even in the Middle Ages, especially, Monopoli, Italy, was a part of the Kingdom of Sicily. Also, many noble families used to govern the town, and they built many places, churches, and buildings.   Again, the remnants of these architectural marvels are one of the best things to see in Monopoli, Italy.   Moreover, as you take a walk along the narrow cobbled street of the Old Town of Monopoli, the ancient stone buildings stand as a telltale of the town’s past.   Exploring the history of the town brings us to the best things to explore in Monopoli, Italy. Let’s take you on a tour of the Old Town and beaches. Also, it’s a delight to share the vibrant gastronomic and cultural scene of the town with you.   Monopoli, Italy: Why We Love It And How It Has Become The New Santorini  The beautiful beaches and the unique charm of the Old Town make the place exude the quintessential Santorini charm.  1. Take A Walk Around The Old Town: Time For Some Time Travel Beautiful squares!  Ancient stone buildings!  Charming and cobbled maze of alleys!   These are the elements that make up the historical center of Monopoli, Italy. You must especially visit the "Centro Storico," or the Old Town, as it is one of the most well-preserved historic towns in Puglia.   Also, as you take a walk through the alleys, you will meet many churches, fortifications, plazas, and other iconic landmarks of the city. Let’s discuss briefly about them!  Cattedrale Di Santa Maria Della Madia (Cathedral Of Santa Maria Della Madia)  Do you want to know about the most beautiful Romanesque architecture of Monopoli? You must visit Cattedrale di Santa Maria della Madia (Cathedral of Santa Maria della Madia).   This 12th-century church is an enviable hub of religious art collection and artwork of the local artists.   Furthermore, the elegant interior of the church complements the grand facade, and the frescos and altars will win over you.   Castello Carlo V: A Spanish Defense Against Invaders   Castello Carlo V dates back to the 16th-century. This fortress defended the city and its people from the invaders and pirates.   Further, this Spanish fortress houses a museum that shows you the rich military history of the town. Also, the monumental towers and big walls of the fort show why it was strategically important during the Renaissance.   Chiesa Di San Salvatore: A Modest Yet Beautiful Church  Chiesa Di San Salvatore, a small church in the Monopoli Old Town, goes back to the 15th century.   Further, the Old Town has many such beautiful churches that add to the historical significance and charm of Monopoli.   2. Beaches And Natural Beauty: Making Monopoli The Ultimate Coastal Gateaway In Italy Soft sandy shores along the Adriatic Coast and turquoise water make Monopoli the ideal beach destination in Italy.   Furthermore, the beaches here are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or indulging in the serenity of the surroundings.   Have a look at the table below to learn about the best beaches here.  Best Beaches In Monopoli Why We Love Them Lido Santo Stefano A fusion of private and public beach areas Beach bars and restaurants  Cala Porta Vecchia Close to the Town Center Crystal clear waters Surrounded by dramatic cliffs Crystal clear water The ideal condition for swimming Spiaggia di Cala Paradiso A hidden gem Peaceful ambiance Natural beauty of the Adriatic Coast  Moreover, the Monopoli coastline has many natural caves which you can explore by boat. For example, The Grotte di Monopoli is a series of cliff caves.   These caves are ideal for knowing about the local geological history. 3. Take A Taste of Puglia At Monopoli, Italy If you want to taste the quintessential taste of the Puglia region, you have to be in Monopoli. Traditional dishes of the Puglia region are full of flavors, and also they are made with local and fresh ingredients.   Furthermore, you will see the abundant use of seafood, freshly baked bread, tomatoes, and olive oil.   Do you love seafood? You have to be in Monopoli, Italy, to try shellfish and fresh fish. Also, don’t forget to try frittura di pesce, a friend’s seafood platter here with squid, anchovies, and shrimp.   The light batter and the zing of the lemon do the magic here.   Another signature element in the local dishes here is a variety of olive oils. You will find the use of the finest extra virgin olive oils and even fresh olives from the famous farms of Puglia.   Are you a wine connoisseur? You will love Negroamaro and Primitivo, two famous red wine varieties in Monopoli, Italy. 4. Soak In The Cultural Vibe Of Monopoli: Cultural Tourism In Monopoli You were wrong if you thought that Monopoli is just about seafood and beaches. This beach town houses various festivals throughout the year, and the Feast of Santa Maria della Madia is probably the most popular among them.   This festival in December celebrates the patron saint of the town, and is celebrated with great pomp with processions, grand fireworks, and mass. Furthermore, Monopoli has many open-air theaters and plazas where various performances and concerts are held during the summer season.   So, enjoy food, history, beach, and culture at Monopoli, Italy.   However, do you want to explore more of Monopoli? Then, visit the Byzantine churches and structures in the Old Town and plan a trip to the countryside.   Furthermore, the Monopoli countryside has Trullis or stone made cylindrical houses with a conical roof.   Moreover, the rural community in the countryside is very lively, making your time in the coastal town unforgettable.  

BY  Sibashree Jun 8, 2021

One of the beautiful places to travel is the seaside. Even in poetry and drama, many poets write their thoughts on the sea beach. Sometimes Italian sea beaches reflected love, sometimes sorrow. Glass beach is one of the best beaches in Italy. Italy itself is a fantastic place, and the sea beaches are attached with sentiments too. People visit beaches on their honeymoon, sometimes with family and sometimes with buddies.  Even for a solo trip, Italy can be your best option. Here, no one will stop you from taking pleasure. For every purpose, Italian sea beaches are fantastic. So, now see them with super excitement.  Now, Look Forward To The Best Beaches In Italy Shore tides are an exciting factor for everyone. People fall in love with the natural beauty of the beaches. But in Italy, the visualization will be a bit different than others. The central part of Italy is its long coastline. The coastline that Italy has is more than 4750 miles. However, you can walk on the beach as far as you want. You may go for a trip to Italy after knowing.  1. Scala dei Turchi, Sicily The Scala dei Turchi is basically what you call the Turkish Steps in Italian. This beach is a stunning rocky cliff located near Realmonte on the southern coast of Sicily. The name has its roots in the Middle Ages. So, this was the scene when Ottoman corsairs would find refuge from fierce sea winds behind these striking white marlstone cliffs. At the base of Scala dei Turchi, you'll find a unique beach. Here, the fiery bronze sands beautifully contrast against the vibrant blue of the ocean and the pale cliffs above.  If you’re in Sicily, it’s definitely worth the two-hour drive from Palermo, especially if you stay at Villa Igie. It is an exquisite Rocco Forte Hotel. Just keep in mind that while the scenery is breathtaking, the swimming conditions here can be a bit limited. So it’s more of a picturesque spot to enjoy rather than a place for a swim.  2. San Fruttuoso, Liguria  The charm of Italian coastal life isn't just found in the south. If you head north to Genoa, you can easily reach the stunning San Fruttuoso. Just remember, this hidden bay requires a hike from Portofino or a ferry from Rapallo or Comoglu. But that effort is part of the adventure  San Fruttuoso is named after a lovely abbey dedicated to St. Fructuosus. So let’s face it. Summer in Italy is all about indulgence. So why not treat yourself to a stay at the luxurious Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, in Portofino? With its plush rooms and breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea, it feels like a true slice of paradise.  3. Chiaia di Luna, Ponza  Chiaia means “beach” in Neapolitan dialect. It perfectly captures the essence of this stunning crescent-shaped stretch of sand. It is nestled at the base of a towering 328-foot volcanic rock cliff. You'll find this gem on Ponza. It is the largest island in the beautiful Pontine archipelago. Ponza is renowned for its: Breathtaking beaches  Idyllic coves  Enchanting grottoes  Delightful seafood restaurants  Getting to this slice of paradise is an adventure in itself. Begin your journey by taking a train from Rome to Anzio. It is a charming fishing port town with its own unique character. From Anzio, hop on a ferry for a scenic two-hour ride that leads you straight to Ponza. Once you arrive, consider staying at the Hotel Chiaia di Luna. This lovely hotel not only offers comfortable rooms and inviting dining areas but also boasts a pool with panoramic views of the awe-inspiring landscape surrounding you. It's the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the island.  4. La Pelosa, Sardinia  Sicily often takes the crown when it comes to Italian islands, but let’s not overlook the charm of Sardinia. It’s the second-largest island in the Mediterranean. Also, it boasts a remarkable variety of landscapes that are largely untouched. You will find everything here, from wooded forests and flat plains. It also includes:   Rugged coastlines  Stunning beaches  Soft sandy shores  Crystal-clear blue waters.  One of the hidden gems is La Pelosa, tucked away in the island's northwestern corner. Getting to La Pelosa is easy: a quick one-hour flight from Rome to Alghero will do the trick. You can base yourself in Alghero, where the Villa Las Tronas Hotel & Spa offers a lovely stay. Renting a car after your arrival is a smart move, as it allows you to explore the breathtaking towns along the Sardinian coast at your own pace.  5. Spiaggia dei Conigli, Lampedusa  Just an hour away by flight from Naples, Lampedusa is Italy's southernmost island, sitting closer to Africa than to mainland Europe. Additionally, it is known for its beautiful beaches. Also, the Spiaggia dei Conigli, or Beach of the Rabbits, is a highlight. Despite its name, don’t expect to see rabbits here; it likely comes from a mistranslation regarding a nearby islet. The island is rich in wildlife, including sea turtles and herring gulls. To visit, fly in from Palermo or take a ferry from Agrigento, Sicily. Be sure to reserve access to the beach and islet, but if you forget, there is a pool at Cupola Bianca Resort. It is a great alternative.  6. Baia dei Turchi, Puglia  If you’re looking for an amazing beach experience, check out Baia dei Turchi in Puglia. It's a hidden gem, about a 10-minute drive north of Otranto, and it’s not to be mistaken for the Scala dei Turchi in Sicily. Additionally, this beach is not just about its beauty. It’s steeped in history. It is named after a battle that took place in the 15th century between the locals and the Ottoman Turks. The beach stretches for about a mile, boasting stunning white sands and incredibly clear waters. It's honestly one of the cleanest beaches in Italy. Also, it earned it the prestigious Blue Flag status for environmental quality. Moreover, getting there might seem like a bit of a trek since it's actually closer to Albania across the Adriatic Sea than to Rome. For a quicker trip, I’d recommend flying into Brindisi and then driving down, but if you’re keen on a more eco-friendly option, you can take the train and bus right to Otranto. Once you’re in the area, consider staying at the Hotel Palazzo Papaleo.  I’ve also heard great things about Masseria Prosperi. It is a charming six-room retreat situated on a working farm just a short drive from the beach. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day in the sun!  7. Cala Goloritzé, Sardinia  Cala Goloritzé is a beautiful spot created by a landslide in 1962, nestled at the base of a ravine on the eastern coast of Sardinia. Moreover, though small, it boasts stunning limestone cliffs, soft ivory sand, and amazing blue-green waters of the Gulf of Orosei. This picturesque place was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 and is famous for its impressive rock formations, including a tall spire and a natural stone arch.  Furthermore, you can reach Cala Goloritzé by car and then take a short hike, which can be a bit rocky, from Santa Maria Navarrese. This charming town is home to the Lanthia Resort, where you can enjoy a private beach on relaxing days. To get to the area, you can drive up from Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, which is accessible by plane from cities like Rome or Milan, or through an overnight ferry from Naples.  8. Vendicari Nature Reserve, Sicily  On Sicily’s Ionian coast, just a short drive from the historic city of Siracusa (the original Syracuse), is the beautiful Vendicari Nature Reserve. This peaceful area is filled with flamingos, herons, and storks roaming free among the tranquil, clear waters. The reserve features lovely little coves and some of Sicily's best beaches, like Calamosche Beach, where you can easily find a spot to relax for the day.  If you're exploring this part of Sicily, consider staying at the Grand Hotel Ortigia Siracusa, a charming and well-known hotel in the city. You can reach Siracusa from Catania, which has an airport with good connections to major cities like Rome, Milan, Paris, London, and Barcelona.  9. Cala Pulcino, Lampedusa  Not far from Spiaggia dei Conigli on Lampedusa, you'll find the charming Cala Pulcino, which translates to Chicken Beach. Also, the name might be a bit of a joke, given that reaching this spot involves a 30-minute trek over rocky paths and through thick vegetation.  Therefore, it is definitely not for the faint-hearted! But once you finally arrive, the effort pays off with gorgeous powdery sand, stunning views, and the endless, vibrant blue of the Mediterranean stretching out before you.  So, to get to Cala Pulcino, you'll need to take a short flight from Palermo or hop on a ferry from Agrigento, Sicily. If you're looking for a cozy place to stay on the island, I recommend checking out Hotel Sole Lampedusa. The rooms are comfortable and well-equipped, but the real highlight is their restaurant, Sottosale, where you can indulge in delicious seafood and mouth-watering Sicilian dishes.  So, don't miss out on the pistachio cannoli, it's a true treat!  10. Cala di Volpe, Sardinia  This delightful beach is a little gem along Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda. It is famous because it is one of the most stunning and pricey coastlines in Italy. Back in the mid-2010s, real estate prices here soared to an astonishing $40,000 per square foot! Additionally, the beach is very famous for its breathtaking Bermuda-blue waters, and the luxurious Cala di Volpe resort sits right by it. Moreover, the great news is that even if you’re not staying at the hotel, you can still enjoy the beautiful waters since they’re open to the public.  If you struggle to find a spot for your beach blanket, don’t worry—there are plenty of other beaches nearby. To reach the Costa Smeralda, you can fly or take a ferry to Olbia, then rent a car to explore the many charming resort towns that make this section of Sardinia so special  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  These are the most common and frequently asked questions about the best beaches in Italy. Let’s take a look at them, shall we?  1. Which Part Of Italy Has The Best Beaches?  In Italy, you can find some of the best beaches in Sardinia.  2. Where In Italy Are There White Sandy Beaches? In Salento, the beaches in Apulia look like the white sandy beaches of the Caribbean. Punta Prosciutto, near Porto Cesareo, has fine sand, a blue sea, and natural dunes.  3. Can You Swim In Lake Como?  Yes, you can swim in Lake Como at designated public beaches and private beach clubs called Lidos, particularly during the summer months (June-August) when the water is warmest and ferries are fully operational. 4. Where Is The Pink Sand Beach In Italy?  The Island of Budelli, unique in the world for the unlikely colour of its sand, is located in the far North of Sardinia, near the Strait of Bonifacio. The Best Beaches In Italy Are Looking Forward To Your Visit  If you are still thinking, then end your hesitation. You can get the best view that will make you feel like you're in paradise. Visit Italy, because there are many unique spots. If you visit, taste the famous foods of Italy. In doing all these, you can enjoy traveling in Italy to the utmost. To visit the best beaches in Italy, you have to spend some money, but that is not too much. After all the beaches that you have explored so far, it is time to find your interest there. Sometimes, the place might attract you so much that you start scouting on the internet about how to obtain Italian citizenship. Don’t worry; if you find yourself in such a mental state, you will find a solution to it quickly. Therefore, go and see your dreamland and enjoy your day. You May Also Like: A Guide To National Parks In Georgia What There Is To Attract Us To Ohio What Are The Countries Near Italy?

BY  Ankita Feb 21, 2024

Italian cuisine is a hit in the United States; if you don't believe me, take a walk in Bensonhurst and Bay Ridge in Brooklyn, where you'll get more than a taste of the food, but experience the culture as well. Short of trekking through Italy, there are limited ways in which you can experience the magic of the country. One of those ways is through food. You could trawl through all the Italian restaurants and bistros in your neighborhood, or you could just cook some traditional dishes at home. Read on to learn more about Italian cuisine and some of its key ingredients. Popular Italian Dishes There are foods we have embraced and enjoy so much that we forget they originated from Italy. Here are a few examples of some that have become staple dishes. Pizza Pizza is the most famous Italian food, and it has won the world over; I mean, who doesn't love pizza? You can top your pizza with almost anything, but did you know the earliest pizzas were topped with garlic, lard, and salt? Lasagne Lasagne was initially reserved for special occasions during the Middle Ages; nowadays, we enjoy it as a filling meal with a salad or bread. Tiramisu This iconic Italian dessert means "pick me up" or “cheer me up” in Italian, understandably so. The sweet, fluffy, and light dessert that melts in your mouth will definitely lift your spirits. Cooking The Italian Way At the core of Italian cooking is the emphasis on fresh ingredients; most people buy packaged pasta and use canned tomatoes and condiments. Authentic Italian cooking requires fresh ingredients. While some may see Italian dishes as unhealthy because of their high-carb content, the opposite is true. Let's look at the key ingredients used in Italian cooking Pasta There are more than 350 different shapes of pasta; it also comes in various forms, such as dried, fresh, or dumpling pasta. Each kind is suitable for a different dish, such as Penne for Penne Arrabbiata and lasagne sheets for lasagne. It's easy to see why pasta is a multi-million dollar business in Italy. It's versatile and works with meat, vegetables, and even dessert (vermicelli) dishes. It doesn't need a lot of flavoring either; you just need to add a sauce and some cheese, and you are good to go. Pasta is an excellent source of carbohydrates; it's filling and affordable. If you are watching calories, you may opt for the whole-grain variety. Read Also: Exploring The Allure Of Holiday Getaways In Italy Olive Oil Olive trees are grown across Italy, with some of the best coming from Liguria and Tuscany, so it's no surprise that most Italian dishes call for olive oil. The oil is high in monounsaturated fatty acids, which can help lower your cholesterol levels. It also has excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. So, what's the difference between virgin olive oil and extra virgin oil? Simply put, extra virgin oil goes through less processing and thus retains more of its natural antioxidants and vitamins. Virgin olive oil also has a higher free acidity rating (0.8 - 2.0) than extra virgin olive oil ( less than 0.8). For authentic Italian olive oils, check out Dolceterra (visit website). Tomatoes Even though tomatoes are not native to Italy, they are firmly at the center of Italian cooking. There are different uses for different kinds of tomatoes; cherry tomatoes are great for salads or stuffing, like in a Caprese stuffed mozzarella, while plum tomatoes make the best sauces. Using tomatoes is not just one of the easiest ways to flavor food; think of spaghetti bolognese. Tomatoes are also known to ease inflammation and boost your immune system; they taste great, too. It's also an excellent preservative. Tuscan cooking is based on limiting food wastage; in historical times, leftover meats were cooked with tomato to preserve them and give them more flavor. And, what is a pizza without a tomato sauce base? We can see why tomatoes have become so central to Italian cuisine. Basil Basil is a flavorful African and Asian herb that comes in different varieties. It is very popular in pasta sauces; hence, we associate it with Italian cooking. Most tomato sauce recipes call for fresh basil, and it is also used in pesto. Basil oil can be used as part of a bread dip or to flavor vegetables. Basil vinegar is excellent in salads as well. Fresh basil is the most flavorful, so it's better to use it. Basil works well with other herbs, such as rosemary, oregano, and dill; this is also applicable in planting. You can plant basil alongside dill, cilantro, and chives. The great thing about basil is that it's easy to grow and doesn't need much space. Cheese Due to new research and eating trends, dairy products have been getting a bad reputation recently. Despite this, we still love our cheese, and what would a pizza be without mozzarella cheese? Cheese is an integral part of Italian cooking, with several famous cheeses made in the country. Mascarpone for tiramisu, fontina for a fondue and Parmigiano Reggiano for pasta. Cheese adds flavor to the pasta's starchiness and helps bind ingredients together in sauces. It also contributes to the texture of the sauce. You can also serve cheese on its own on a cheese board paired with great wine; while this is not authentically Italian, it does show how versatile cheese is. Most cheeses are an excellent source of calcium, and they also have protein. Wine Wine is fundamental to Italian cuisine and not just for drinking; think of Cioppino, which needs it as a key ingredient. Here are a few tips when pairing wine: Chianti is very compatible with tomato-based sauces. So, it goes well with pizza and creamy tomato pasta. A cabernet-sauvignon elevates the flavor of aged cheeses. Pair a provincial dish with a regional wine. Lastly Italian cuisine is not complicated, and we love it; you can make the most straightforward meal, which will be delicious. Most meals are made with fresh ingredients, which makes them healthier and tastier. You can integrate Italian meals into most eating plans without feeling guilty. Read Also: Common Pitfalls Of Destination Wedding In Italy And How To Avoid Them How Much Time To Spend In Italy Best Places To Visit In Italy