The Great Dolomites Road - Travel in Italy
by Enrico Massetti
Great Dolomite Road from Bolzano to Cortina d'Ampezzo Driving Tour
This itinerary crosses three regions: Sudtirol, Trentino and Veneto. It is a classic itinerary to visit some of the most scenic parts of the Dolomites.
Bolzano
The itinerary starts from Bolzano (in German Bozen), capital of the autonomous province of the same name, in Sudtirol, that lies in a fertile basin at the junction of the River Isarco (Eisack), coming from the Brenner, with the Talvera (Talfer), coming from Val Sarentina. The Isarco, thus reinforced, flows into the Adige (Etsch) to the south of the town.
The background to the east is formed by the magnificent Catinaccio group, with the Torri del Vaiolet, typical Dolomite peaks. Situated at the intersection of important through routes and at the starting point of popular mountain roads, Bolzano has a busy transit traffic, but its convenient situation and beautiful surroundings also make it an excellent base from which to explore the region.
Karneld
Not far from Bolzano we cross the Brenner motorway and climb the steep gorge in the Eggen valley through which flows the Karneld stream. On a steep rocky height on the left stands Karneld Castle (13th century, restored about 1880; chapel and frescoes) that is above the village of the same name.
In Kardaun there is the Eisack power station, beyond which a road bridge crosses the Eggen valley waterfall. Then the valley broadens out, near Birchabruck (Ponte Nova; 877m/2,728ft) there is on the right a fine view of the Laternar and the Rosengarten on the left. Beyond Birchabruck the Dolomite Road leaves the Eggen valley and ascends the Welschofen valley.
Welschnofen/Nova Levante
The village of Welschnofen, picturesquely situated on the hillside, is popular both as a summer and as a winter sports resort. From the Hainzer sawmill a chair-lift goes up to the Frommer Alm (1,730m/5,678ft) and continues to the Kölner Hütte, (2,337m/7,679ft). From the Cologne Path (Kölner Weg) it is possible to reach in about 1.25 hours walk the Paolina Hut (2,127m/6,981ft) above the Karer Pass.
Carezza Lake
After almost 6km/4 mi we reach the little hotel settlement of Karersee (Carezza al Lago; 1,609m/5,281ft) not far above the Carezza Lake (Lago di Carezza; 1,530m/5,121ft; nature reserve), in which are reflected the rough rocky walls of the Laternar (2,794m/8,611ft) which rises in the south. In the northeast towers the Rotwand (2,806m/9,209ft). The Carezza Lake is a classic tourist destination, the walk around the lake is recommended, easy and can be done in about 20 minutes.
Passo di Costalunga
The Dolomite Road continues from Carezza Lake downhill above meadows to the Passo di Costalunga (1,753m/5,753ft) on the German/Ladin language frontier between the Laternar and the Rotwand. High above the top of the pass stands a monument to the Dolomite pioneer Theodor Cristomanos. At the Pass the road enters the province of Trento.
Vigo di Fassa
On the far side of the summit of the pass is Vigo di Fassa (1,382m/4,536ft), a popular holiday and winter sports resort on the slopes above the Fassa valley.
In the 15th century parish church in the community of San Giovanni can be seen frescoes dating from the 16th century. Above the village is a military cemetery.
Pozza di Fassa
Further up the Fassa valley in which flows the River Avisio lies the resort of Pozza di Fassa (1,290m/4,234ft), with a chair-lift to the Buffaure slope (2,020m / 6,629ft; ski-lifts).
Campitello di Fassa
Campitello di Fassa, dominated by the jagged peaks of the Langkofel, is much visited both in summer and in winter. A chair-lift goes up to the Col Rodella (2,387m / 7,834ft); it takes about 15 minutes to climb to the Rodella (2,485m / 8,156ft; TV transmission antenna; refuge hut).
Canazei
At the end of the Val Lastie lies Canazei a very popular touring base and winter sports resort of the upper Fassa Valley.
Pecol
A cableway leads to Pecol on the road over the Pordoi ridge where there is an extensive skiing area. A chair-lift ascends to the Belvedere (2,389m/7,841ft; refuge hut). From the Pordoi ridge the Viel dal Pan track leads in 2.5 hours via the Viel dal Pan Refugio (2,346m/7,746ft; refuge hut) to the Refugio Marmolada / Castiglioni on the artificially dammed Fadaia Lake (2,046m/6,715ft).
Alba road to the Fadaia Pass
On the road leading south from Canazei to the Fadaia Pass is the village of Alba (cableway to Ciampac, 2,136m/7,010ft; skiing area).
The road to the pass reaches the picturesque mountain village of Penia (1,556m/5,107ft) and, above Pian Trevisam (1,717m/5,635ft; Refugio Villetta Maria), continues to the Fedaia Lake and the Fedaia Pass, where the road enters the Province of Belluno in the Region of Veneto.
Pieve di Livinallongo
The Dolomite Road now follows the Livinallongo Valley watered by the Cordevole river, first along the floor of the valley and later high on the northern slope and over a gorge. Then we reach Pieve di Livinallongo, the administrative center of the extensive district of Livinallongo del Col di Lana. Southeast below Pieve is the Sacrario di Pian di Salesi, an Italian military cemetery. The road to it continues south to Caprile and Alleghe on the lake of the same name.
Col di Lana
To the north above Pieve di Livinallongo towers the 2,462m/8,080ft-high Col di Lana which can be reached on foot in three hours via the Refugio Gaetani (1,835m/6,022ft). The summit was the scene of intense fighting in 1915 to 1918; Italian alpine troops drove a tunnel under the positions of the Austrian Imperial infantry on the summit and on April 17th/18th 1916 blew it up. Near the summit stands a memorial chapel and remains of the military positions; from the top there is an exceptional panorama.
Falzarego Pass, Passo di Falzarego
Beyond Pieve di Livinallongo the Dolomite Road turns north and climbs the 2,177m/7,145ft-high Falzarego Pass, a broad depression which is overlooked on the west by the Sasso di Stria ("witches' rock"; 2,477m/8,130ft), on the east by the curiously named Cinque Torri ("five towers"; 2,362m/7,752ft) and on the south by Nuvolauo (2,575m/8,451ft). North of the pass a cableway goes up to the Piccolo Lagazuoi (2,728m/8,953ft).
Valparola Ridge
From the Falzarego Pass a road leads northwest along the beautiful Lago di Valparola to the 2,192m/7,194ft-high Valparola ridge, overlooked on the northeast by the Lagazuoi (2,803m/9,199ft), then winds downhill to Armentarola (1,640m/5,382ft); from here we continue through the charmingly situated village of San Cassiano (1,537m/5,044ft) to the village of La Villa (Stern; 1,483m/4,867ft), high in the valley of the Gader. The Dolomite Road continues in curves and S-bends steadily downhill; on the left is the mighty rock wall of Tofana.
Cinque Torri
A good 5km/3 mi beyond the summit of the pass a road branches off to the Refugio Cinque Torri (2,131m/6,994ft); from here there are climbs on the rocks of the Cinque Torri ("five towers"; main summit 2,362m/7,752ft). About 15 minutes west of the hut is the Refugio Scoiattoli (2,230m/7,319ft; ski-lift), from where a chair-lift descends to the Refugio Bai de Dones (1,900m/6,236ft) on the Dolomite Road.
Tofana
About 7km/4.5mi beyond the summit of the Falzarego Pass a 6km/4mi-long military road branches off to the Refugio Cantore (2,545m/8,353ft), the starting point for climbing the 3,244m/10,647ft-high Tofana. Via Pocol we reach in 9km/5.5mi the winter sports resort of Cortina d'Ampezzo.
Cortina d’Ampezzo
The internationally renowned tourist center of Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy's most popular winter sports resort, lies at the eastern end of the Strada delle Dolomiti in a wide valley enclosed by the high peaks of the Dolomites.
The Winter Olympics 1956 took place in Cortina d'Ampezzo.
Since hosting the Winter Olympics in 1956 Cortina d'Ampezzo has become known as the Italian ski resort for the jet set. Expensive furs and fancy cars with shops to match dot the town that boasts a picturesque center and access to three separate ski areas. A haven for beginners and intermediates, the town is flanked by two mountain ridges with Mount Cristallo (a 9,613-foot peak) and Faloria (at 7,690 feet) to the east and Tofana (9,317 feet) and Pocol and Socrepes (7,487 feet) to the west. These areas are linked by bus and taxi but schedules are not necessarily that convenient so skiers tend to pick an area for a morning or afternoon or the entire day and try another area the next day.
The Dolomites Mountains Itineraries
Walks in the Dolomites
Cortina d'Ampezzo in winter
42 trekking itineraries from Cortina d'Ampezzo
15 mountain bike itineraries from Cortina d'Ampezzo
Vie ferrate in the Dolomites
Great Dolomite Road
Sass Pordoi
Enrico is an Italian living in Washington, DC. He is a freelance writer and internet marketing expert, specializing in SEO for individuals and small companies, and the owner of the TangoItalia travel web site, a site on Travel, food, wine, and... tango in Italy.
About the Author:
Enrico is an Italian living in Washington, DC. He is a freelance writer and internet marketing expert, specializing in SEO for individuals and small companies, and the owner of the TangoItalia travel web site, a site on Travel, food, wine, and... tango in Italy.
http://tangoitalia.com
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_811413_29.html
Europe tour package: a good trip within your budget
Labels:
budget travel italy
Europe tour package: a good trip within your budget by Jason Born
Europe being the second largest continent of the world has a great number of places that can be visited. This continent is a great tourist hub and enjoys a good tourist footfall every year. This continent is a beautiful place that can be explored and for nature lovers it will be a total delight. It is one of the most popular holiday destinations and if you are also planning a holiday trip this year then there could be no better place than Europe.So just book your ticket and pack your bags! But before that just grab a Europe tour package for total fun and enjoyment in Europe.
Europe being the second largest continent of the world has a great number of places that can be visited. This continent is a great tourist hub and enjoys a good tourist footfall every year. This continent is a beautiful place that can be explored and for nature lovers it will be a total delight. It is one of the most popular holiday destinations and if you are also planning a holiday trip this year then there could be no better place than Europe.So just book your ticket and pack your bags! But before that just grab a Europe tour package for total fun and enjoyment in Europe.
If you are among those who want everything to be planned, perfect and on time then opting for Europe tour package is a right choice to make. This package will include all everything. You will not have to worry about your bookings, accommodation, hotel, taxis and other things. The tour package will be prudently organised considering your preferences and budget in mind. These packages can be tailored according to your needs and personal requirements. To avoid inconveniences from your trip all the things and planned beforehand so that you can enjoy your holidays completely.
To make your trip a great fun and to plan it well Europe tour package can be a great help. Europe is the second largest continent with various countries that are worth visiting. These popular tourist destinations should not be missed in any case such as France, UK, Germany, Italy, Cyrus, Denmark and many more. If you don't choose a right package and don't plan your trip then ultimately you will be at loss. So just don't waste your time thinking!
Before opting for any package you must first do thorough research. Also you can access required information very conveniently through online medium. There are various destinations to visit and an itinerary has to be made within the budget for a proper and hassle navigation. A complete tour package can be grabbed at affordable prices and will enable you to enjoy your holidays without tension.
Jason Born is offering advice for quite some time. He provide useful advice through his articles that have been found very useful. Our keywords are Europe travel tour packages, Europe tour package , Europe tour budget europe travel, europe travel guide, europe travel planning, europe vacation. Find us at http://www.tourtoeurope.net/.
Visiting the Vatican City during your Italy vacation
Labels:
budget travel italy
Visiting the Vatican City during your Italy Vacation
by Tim Roseland
One of the most popular destinations for those travelling to Italy is that of Vatican City. Most people do not know that this is a sovereign city-state. This means that it makes its own rules and has its own governing system independent of the Italian system. Vatican City is a walled state within the city of Rome. It is the smallest independent state in the whole world with only a little over 100 acres. It was formed in 1929 under an agreement between the Kingdom of Italy and the Holy See. The Holy See refers to the central governing system of the Catholic Church headed by the Pope. The Pope is also known as the Bishop of Rome. Vatican City houses the official residence of the Pope and it is visited by millions of people each year.
You can enter the Vatican City through the famous St. Peter’s square. This square is characterized by great Baroque architecture from the 1600’s and includes symbols of the church motherly embracing its people in its arms. St. Peter’s Basilica is another place you can visit in the Vatican City while on your Italy vacation because it is also found in St. Peter’s square. It is the most notable building in Vatican City and this church’s dome can be seen for miles around Rome. St. Peter’s Basilica seats 60,000 and is said to be the largest building in the Christian church. It is noted for being the burial site of St. Peter who is said to be the founding father of the Catholic Church by being the first Bishop of Rome. The discovery of his tomb was announced in 1950 after a decade of archeological research.
Catholic tradition says that St. Peter is buried under the altar of this Basilica and therefore all the Popes since then have also been buried in the Basilica (the most recent being Pope John Paul II in April 2005). At the entrance of the Basilica are statues of Christ, St. John the Baptist and 11 of the 12 apostles. You can enter the Basilica for free during your Italian vacation if you are properly dressed with no bare shoulders or knees. If you would like to attend mass you should go to the Basilica on a Sunday.
There are several other places to see here during your Italy vacation. The largest museum in the world is also found in Vatican City. It has over 1400 rooms and galleries that represent 3000 years of art. The Sistine Chapel is also found here and is known for being the private chapel that the cardinals go to when electing a new Pope.
So what is the best way to see all the sights that the Vatican City has to offer during your Italian vacation? There are guided tours available that can be taken for half a day or longer. You can take a guided tour of just the museum, or a guided tour to include all the important places of interest in the Vatican City and this will ensure that you don’t miss a thing here on your Italian vacation.
Resource Box:
myroadtotravel was created in late 2007 as way for my wife and I to do what we love most...Travel. We love to share our experiences with others and have recently created our first blog myroadtotravelblog.com to help us do just that. Through this blog, we offer travel tips, our own personal experiences/adventures and photos from our vacations. Please stop by and give us your feedback and remember, for all your travel booking needs please visit us at myroadtotravel.com
Resource Box:
myroadtotravel was created in late 2007 as way for my wife and I to do what we love most...Travel. We love to share our experiences with others and have recently created our first blog myroadtotravelblog.com to help us do just that. Through this blog, we offer travel tips, our own personal experiences/adventures and photos from our vacations. Please stop by and give us your feedback and remember, for all your travel booking needs please visit us at myroadtotravel.com
http://www.myroadtotravelblog.com
by Tim Roseland
One of the most popular destinations for those travelling to Italy is that of Vatican City. Most people do not know that this is a sovereign city-state. This means that it makes its own rules and has its own governing system independent of the Italian system. Vatican City is a walled state within the city of Rome. It is the smallest independent state in the whole world with only a little over 100 acres. It was formed in 1929 under an agreement between the Kingdom of Italy and the Holy See. The Holy See refers to the central governing system of the Catholic Church headed by the Pope. The Pope is also known as the Bishop of Rome. Vatican City houses the official residence of the Pope and it is visited by millions of people each year.
You can enter the Vatican City through the famous St. Peter’s square. This square is characterized by great Baroque architecture from the 1600’s and includes symbols of the church motherly embracing its people in its arms. St. Peter’s Basilica is another place you can visit in the Vatican City while on your Italy vacation because it is also found in St. Peter’s square. It is the most notable building in Vatican City and this church’s dome can be seen for miles around Rome. St. Peter’s Basilica seats 60,000 and is said to be the largest building in the Christian church. It is noted for being the burial site of St. Peter who is said to be the founding father of the Catholic Church by being the first Bishop of Rome. The discovery of his tomb was announced in 1950 after a decade of archeological research.
Catholic tradition says that St. Peter is buried under the altar of this Basilica and therefore all the Popes since then have also been buried in the Basilica (the most recent being Pope John Paul II in April 2005). At the entrance of the Basilica are statues of Christ, St. John the Baptist and 11 of the 12 apostles. You can enter the Basilica for free during your Italian vacation if you are properly dressed with no bare shoulders or knees. If you would like to attend mass you should go to the Basilica on a Sunday.
There are several other places to see here during your Italy vacation. The largest museum in the world is also found in Vatican City. It has over 1400 rooms and galleries that represent 3000 years of art. The Sistine Chapel is also found here and is known for being the private chapel that the cardinals go to when electing a new Pope.
So what is the best way to see all the sights that the Vatican City has to offer during your Italian vacation? There are guided tours available that can be taken for half a day or longer. You can take a guided tour of just the museum, or a guided tour to include all the important places of interest in the Vatican City and this will ensure that you don’t miss a thing here on your Italian vacation.
Resource Box:
myroadtotravel was created in late 2007 as way for my wife and I to do what we love most...Travel. We love to share our experiences with others and have recently created our first blog myroadtotravelblog.com to help us do just that. Through this blog, we offer travel tips, our own personal experiences/adventures and photos from our vacations. Please stop by and give us your feedback and remember, for all your travel booking needs please visit us at myroadtotravel.com
Resource Box:
myroadtotravel was created in late 2007 as way for my wife and I to do what we love most...Travel. We love to share our experiences with others and have recently created our first blog myroadtotravelblog.com to help us do just that. Through this blog, we offer travel tips, our own personal experiences/adventures and photos from our vacations. Please stop by and give us your feedback and remember, for all your travel booking needs please visit us at myroadtotravel.com
http://www.myroadtotravelblog.com
| Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_824088_29.html |
Rome travel guide by matteo cellini
Labels:
budget travel italy
Rome Travel Guide by matteo cellini
"Rome was not built in a day" is a saying well known and it gives the impression that Rome is this great city that took a lot both in time and in resources before its walls were erected. And that is exactly what the saying means; and in the life too. Rome was the largest city back in the days when the Roman Empire was in power for two and a half centuries. But there is more to Rome than the battles for power. There is a beauty that lies hidden. Rome is by no means an ancient city, presently speaking, but the ancient bit has been preserved so the medieval stories can be told by sight rather than by words.
Known as Roma in Italian or translated as the city of the Seven Hills, Rome is one of those places that someone vows to visit once in their life. It has so much to offer besides the history. Like any other city, life bursts forth in the night and cools down when the sun makes an entrance. And during that very night, there are hundreds of restaurants within the city walls that offer finger-licking meals. Everyone knows of Italian food and having the pleasure of visiting the place where it lives is more than a privilege. It creates those moments that you are thankful for having taste buds.
Sightseeing in the city is through taxi or by car. It is the easiest way since all roads literally lead to Rome. When it comes to the seeing, there are too many places to visit but you cannot get to see them all in one day if you want to maintain the fun factor. The landmarks are many and getting a three day pass to all of them for 23 Euro is the best thing that you can do. Pizza in the Palatino Hill, one of the landmarks somehow tastes better coupled with the fact that it is made right at home.
Museums are abundant in the city for those wanting to take back some history or some art knowledge. It is said that for the most part when you are in Rome, it will not strike you that you are walking in a capital city but rather in a small ancient place that has not felt the passing of the years. If you want to see the real beauty, then you are better off walking around instead of driving. The Piazzas that are in the narrow streets are a sight to behold and be guaranteed you are going to want to take pictures.
The Catholic aura is centered in the Vatican, a place closely linked to the birth of Catholic and more so the Roman Catholic.
"Rome was not built in a day" is a saying well known and it gives the impression that Rome is this great city that took a lot both in time and in resources before its walls were erected. And that is exactly what the saying means; and in the life too. Rome was the largest city back in the days when the Roman Empire was in power for two and a half centuries. But there is more to Rome than the battles for power. There is a beauty that lies hidden. Rome is by no means an ancient city, presently speaking, but the ancient bit has been preserved so the medieval stories can be told by sight rather than by words.
Known as Roma in Italian or translated as the city of the Seven Hills, Rome is one of those places that someone vows to visit once in their life. It has so much to offer besides the history. Like any other city, life bursts forth in the night and cools down when the sun makes an entrance. And during that very night, there are hundreds of restaurants within the city walls that offer finger-licking meals. Everyone knows of Italian food and having the pleasure of visiting the place where it lives is more than a privilege. It creates those moments that you are thankful for having taste buds.
Sightseeing in the city is through taxi or by car. It is the easiest way since all roads literally lead to Rome. When it comes to the seeing, there are too many places to visit but you cannot get to see them all in one day if you want to maintain the fun factor. The landmarks are many and getting a three day pass to all of them for 23 Euro is the best thing that you can do. Pizza in the Palatino Hill, one of the landmarks somehow tastes better coupled with the fact that it is made right at home.
Museums are abundant in the city for those wanting to take back some history or some art knowledge. It is said that for the most part when you are in Rome, it will not strike you that you are walking in a capital city but rather in a small ancient place that has not felt the passing of the years. If you want to see the real beauty, then you are better off walking around instead of driving. The Piazzas that are in the narrow streets are a sight to behold and be guaranteed you are going to want to take pictures.
The Catholic aura is centered in the Vatican, a place closely linked to the birth of Catholic and more so the Roman Catholic.
Being a place well known for the exquisite wines they make, there are numerous Rome hotels and accommodations where you can sip your wine in the luxury of high class hotels fully equipped to meet any need that may arise.
In the end, calling Rome just another city in the sun would be a big understatement.
Matteo Cellini writes for the Venere Blog about travel, lifestyle, food, and so on. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
Travel to Italy land of Beauty and history
Labels:
budget travel italy
Travel to Italy Land of Beauty and History
by John Sern
Italy, the land of beauty, fashion, history and culture has been regarded as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. For those who like to travel and visit romantic places, Italy is the best place to stop at, not only it is romantic but it has extremely interesting buildings, monuments and architectural achievements which are part of history, so those who love to scrutinize the meaning behind art will find this place to be a fantastic historical and artistic puzzle.
When traveling to this fantastic country it is important to make sure you plan the tours you want to take and the places you want to visit since some tours and guides will show you around the most tourist places and other tours will take you on exclusive rides throughout a specific region. One thing is sure though, Italy is a big country which has much to offer to the tourist and it can't all be seen in just one trip.
Great musicians born in Italy have written and composed touching musical pieces and those who appreciate this form art dream about taking a gondola ride to the soothing and romantic lyrics of songs such as "O Sole Mio" or "Time to say Goodbye (Con Te Partiro) - Andrea Boccelli & Sarah Brightman", as you may think this is definitively the perfect place to spend an unforgettable honey moon.
Once you are in Italy a couple of cities you definitively must visit are Rome and of course the already mentioned Venice, this doesn't mean that these two places hold all of Italy's attractions, it only means that there are several interesting landmarks which you definitively have to see in person. In Rome you can find the Vatican, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon among several other landmarks and tourists attractions; Venice on the other hand is much appreciated and admired for being the "floating city" because all of it is placed on water. This city is actually sinking so as a tourist it is better to visit this beautiful place while it is still a float!
Whenever you decide to take some time of and get a way for a couple of weeks your plans should definitively include Italy because of the many attractions, culture, architecture and rich heritage which can't be found anywhere else. Italy is best known for its fantastic people and it's definitively a place which most tourists hope to be in at least once in their lifetime.
www.ahotelinitaly.com provides more information about great tourist destinations as well as travel guides and hotels in Italy in order to make your travel plans a breeze, visit us today!
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_255027_32.html
by John Sern
Italy, the land of beauty, fashion, history and culture has been regarded as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. For those who like to travel and visit romantic places, Italy is the best place to stop at, not only it is romantic but it has extremely interesting buildings, monuments and architectural achievements which are part of history, so those who love to scrutinize the meaning behind art will find this place to be a fantastic historical and artistic puzzle.
When traveling to this fantastic country it is important to make sure you plan the tours you want to take and the places you want to visit since some tours and guides will show you around the most tourist places and other tours will take you on exclusive rides throughout a specific region. One thing is sure though, Italy is a big country which has much to offer to the tourist and it can't all be seen in just one trip.
Great musicians born in Italy have written and composed touching musical pieces and those who appreciate this form art dream about taking a gondola ride to the soothing and romantic lyrics of songs such as "O Sole Mio" or "Time to say Goodbye (Con Te Partiro) - Andrea Boccelli & Sarah Brightman", as you may think this is definitively the perfect place to spend an unforgettable honey moon.
Once you are in Italy a couple of cities you definitively must visit are Rome and of course the already mentioned Venice, this doesn't mean that these two places hold all of Italy's attractions, it only means that there are several interesting landmarks which you definitively have to see in person. In Rome you can find the Vatican, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon among several other landmarks and tourists attractions; Venice on the other hand is much appreciated and admired for being the "floating city" because all of it is placed on water. This city is actually sinking so as a tourist it is better to visit this beautiful place while it is still a float!
Whenever you decide to take some time of and get a way for a couple of weeks your plans should definitively include Italy because of the many attractions, culture, architecture and rich heritage which can't be found anywhere else. Italy is best known for its fantastic people and it's definitively a place which most tourists hope to be in at least once in their lifetime.
www.ahotelinitaly.com provides more information about great tourist destinations as well as travel guides and hotels in Italy in order to make your travel plans a breeze, visit us today!
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_255027_32.html
How to explore Florence- A classic tourist guide
Labels:
budget travel italy
How to Explore Florence - A Classic Tourist Guide by Chris Dale
Florence: Florence is full of ancient riches and treasures, it is also the birthplace of the Renaissance.
Florence is a colourful, living museum that rejoices in the great works of Michelangelo, Giotto, Leonardo da Vinci and Botticelli. Florence has the world's largest collection of Renaissance art and stunning architecture, it is often referred to as being one enormous museum or art gallery, with more art treasures per square meter than any other place on earth.
This classic destination is nestled on the banks of the river Arno, below the wooded foothills of the Appennines. The beautiful and romantic city of Florence makes a great choice for a classic short stay or an exciting weekend break of discovery.
How to explore Florence: Florence encourages exploration and is best enjoyed on foot. Be sure to wear a sturdy (but stylish) pair of walking shoes in order to explore the many fascinating palaces, museums and galleries. If discovering Florence for the first time start by simply wandering around the city without referring to your guide or map, you will soon feel yourself being drawn in amongst the elegant architecture that dominates the warm, colourful and ancient narrow streets. Continue strolling around the elegant buildings and atmospheric piazzas and you will soon understand why Florence has helped inspire artists to produce many of the city's spectacular sculptures and paintings.
What to see in Florence: Take time out to visit the Uffizi gallery, one of the oldest and most significant art galleries in the world. It houses an impressive collection of works from the Renaissance period including Botticelli's Birth of Venus; this important collection was mostly commissioned by the Medici family. Also worth a visit is the Galleria Dell' Accademia, which contains Michelangelo's original statue of David.
The magnificent and imposing structure of the 'Santa Maria del Fiore' Cathedral (commonly known as the Duomo of Florence) dominates the city, with excellent views from its famous cupola and Giotto's Bell Tower.
To relax take a stroll across the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge or enjoy the beautiful Pitti Palace and its lovely gardens. For the best views of the city take a walk from Porta Romana to Piazzale Michelangelo and then onto San Miniato, one of Tuscany's most beautiful Romanesque churches and the oldest still standing in Florence.
Eating out in Florence: Florence has many restaurants serving traditional Tuscan and international cuisine. Some of the best authentic eateries are the small friendly trattoria that can found around the Piazza Santa Maria Novella. Try one of the local Tuscan wines (Chianti) at the top-floor café of the 'La Rinascente' department store, the café has great views, plus excellent coffee and pastries.
Shopping in Florence: Italian fashion can be found at the Via della Vigna Nuova. For the best deals check out the out-of-town outlet stores, plus the flea market of Piazza Ciompi for more bargains, also visit the large street market at San Lorenzo. The medieval Ponte Vecchio is famous for hand-crafted jewellery and traditional goldsmiths.
Popular Pre-Bookable Florence Excursions:
1. The 3-4 hour city tour of Florence - be prepared, you pack-in a lot of culture on this tour, including: Brunelleschi's Cupola, Giotto's Bell Tower, Palazzo Pitti (or Bargello Museum or Medici Chapels), the Palatine Gallery, the Piazzale Michelangelo, the Church of Santa Croce and the Galleria Dell'Accademia which houses Michelangelo's original statue of David.
2. Pisa afternoon tour - a relaxing excursion to the site of Italy's famous leaning tower, plus the Piazza dei Cavalieri, Piazza dei Miracoli and the Cathedral.
3. San Gimignano and Siena - a full day excursion (at least 9 hours) driving through the picturesque Tuscan countryside to the fascinating medieval hilltop village of San Gimignano, then onto Siena, the famous venue for the Palio horse race.
4. Chianti countryside wine tour - a very popular tour (and welcomed break from the heat and buzz of the city) visiting the Chianti countryside, includes a visit to a Castle Farm for wine tasting, also included are traditional Tuscan snacks.
Airport Transfers: Pisa. Galileo Galilei International Airport (PSA) serves Florence. The airport is located one mile (2km) northeast of Pisa. A bus service from the airport departs regularly to Pisa city centre. Trains from Pisa Centrale station connect to Florence and other cities in the region. Taxis are readily available, check the taxi driver has switched on the meter before your journey begins. From Pisa, there is a coach service to the centre of Florence taking approximately 1hour 30mins.
Florence - once visited always remembered.
The Travel3 Directory and http://www.hotel-4.com, 2008-2009. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to The Travel3 Directory with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
Florence: Florence is full of ancient riches and treasures, it is also the birthplace of the Renaissance.
Florence is a colourful, living museum that rejoices in the great works of Michelangelo, Giotto, Leonardo da Vinci and Botticelli. Florence has the world's largest collection of Renaissance art and stunning architecture, it is often referred to as being one enormous museum or art gallery, with more art treasures per square meter than any other place on earth.
This classic destination is nestled on the banks of the river Arno, below the wooded foothills of the Appennines. The beautiful and romantic city of Florence makes a great choice for a classic short stay or an exciting weekend break of discovery.
How to explore Florence: Florence encourages exploration and is best enjoyed on foot. Be sure to wear a sturdy (but stylish) pair of walking shoes in order to explore the many fascinating palaces, museums and galleries. If discovering Florence for the first time start by simply wandering around the city without referring to your guide or map, you will soon feel yourself being drawn in amongst the elegant architecture that dominates the warm, colourful and ancient narrow streets. Continue strolling around the elegant buildings and atmospheric piazzas and you will soon understand why Florence has helped inspire artists to produce many of the city's spectacular sculptures and paintings.
What to see in Florence: Take time out to visit the Uffizi gallery, one of the oldest and most significant art galleries in the world. It houses an impressive collection of works from the Renaissance period including Botticelli's Birth of Venus; this important collection was mostly commissioned by the Medici family. Also worth a visit is the Galleria Dell' Accademia, which contains Michelangelo's original statue of David.
The magnificent and imposing structure of the 'Santa Maria del Fiore' Cathedral (commonly known as the Duomo of Florence) dominates the city, with excellent views from its famous cupola and Giotto's Bell Tower.
To relax take a stroll across the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge or enjoy the beautiful Pitti Palace and its lovely gardens. For the best views of the city take a walk from Porta Romana to Piazzale Michelangelo and then onto San Miniato, one of Tuscany's most beautiful Romanesque churches and the oldest still standing in Florence.
Eating out in Florence: Florence has many restaurants serving traditional Tuscan and international cuisine. Some of the best authentic eateries are the small friendly trattoria that can found around the Piazza Santa Maria Novella. Try one of the local Tuscan wines (Chianti) at the top-floor café of the 'La Rinascente' department store, the café has great views, plus excellent coffee and pastries.
Shopping in Florence: Italian fashion can be found at the Via della Vigna Nuova. For the best deals check out the out-of-town outlet stores, plus the flea market of Piazza Ciompi for more bargains, also visit the large street market at San Lorenzo. The medieval Ponte Vecchio is famous for hand-crafted jewellery and traditional goldsmiths.
Popular Pre-Bookable Florence Excursions:
1. The 3-4 hour city tour of Florence - be prepared, you pack-in a lot of culture on this tour, including: Brunelleschi's Cupola, Giotto's Bell Tower, Palazzo Pitti (or Bargello Museum or Medici Chapels), the Palatine Gallery, the Piazzale Michelangelo, the Church of Santa Croce and the Galleria Dell'Accademia which houses Michelangelo's original statue of David.
2. Pisa afternoon tour - a relaxing excursion to the site of Italy's famous leaning tower, plus the Piazza dei Cavalieri, Piazza dei Miracoli and the Cathedral.
3. San Gimignano and Siena - a full day excursion (at least 9 hours) driving through the picturesque Tuscan countryside to the fascinating medieval hilltop village of San Gimignano, then onto Siena, the famous venue for the Palio horse race.
4. Chianti countryside wine tour - a very popular tour (and welcomed break from the heat and buzz of the city) visiting the Chianti countryside, includes a visit to a Castle Farm for wine tasting, also included are traditional Tuscan snacks.
Airport Transfers: Pisa. Galileo Galilei International Airport (PSA) serves Florence. The airport is located one mile (2km) northeast of Pisa. A bus service from the airport departs regularly to Pisa city centre. Trains from Pisa Centrale station connect to Florence and other cities in the region. Taxis are readily available, check the taxi driver has switched on the meter before your journey begins. From Pisa, there is a coach service to the centre of Florence taking approximately 1hour 30mins.
Florence - once visited always remembered.
The Travel3 Directory and http://www.hotel-4.com, 2008-2009. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to The Travel3 Directory with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
Author Chris Dale is based in the UK and has over 25 years experience in the retail Travel Industry. This article has been prepared for Hotel-4.com and The Travel3 Directory http://www.travel3.co.uk. Hotel-4.com compares discount hotel prices from 30 of the worlds top suppliers.
Tips for Italy travel
Labels:
budget travel italy
Tips for Italy Travel
by David Chandler
Located in Southern Europe, Italy is a peninsula extending into the central Mediterranean Sea, northeast of Tunisia. When traveling to Italy it is important to remember that you are not at home, so always be respectful and conservative.
WEATHER AND CLOTHING
In general the weather is very hot and steaming in the dead of the summer. We recommend that you wear light clothing. Be sure to have sunglasses, hat and sunblock, as they are essential. Afternoon thunderstorms (brief) are common in Rome and inland cities, so you may want to consider bringing an umbrella. It is essential to follow dress standards (no bare shoulders or knees) and is strictly enforced in many churches, especially in Rome at St. Peter's and the Vatican Museums and at the Basilica di San Marco in Venice.
SAFETY
Remember to protect yourself against purse-snatchers and pickpockets. It is recommended that you wear a money belt or a pouch on a string around your neck, both concealed. When you have to carry a purse make sure that is around your neck and tucked between your body and arm. A word of caution: "gypsy" children are widespread in Rome, are skilled pickpockets that are quick, and know more tricks than you do.
TELEPHONES
Since hotel tend to overcharge for long distance and international calls. It is best to make such calls from public phones, using telephone cards. For general information in English dial 176. To place international telephone calls via operator assisted service, dial 170 or long distance access numbers. The country code for Italy is 39.
If you are in need of additional information or have found what you are looking for. We suggest that you complete an internet search for additional information.
Have a safe and enjoyable trip to Italy!
For more information, visit www.ItalyInfoCenter.com
www.TuscanyInfoCenter
About The Author:
David Chandler
Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_8581_29.html
About the Author: David Chandler"http://www.stockmarketgenie.com" www.StockMarketGenie.com For your FREE Stock Market Trading Mini Course: "What The Wall Street Hot Shots Won't Tell You!" go to: www.StockMarketGenie.com
by David Chandler
Located in Southern Europe, Italy is a peninsula extending into the central Mediterranean Sea, northeast of Tunisia. When traveling to Italy it is important to remember that you are not at home, so always be respectful and conservative.
WEATHER AND CLOTHING
In general the weather is very hot and steaming in the dead of the summer. We recommend that you wear light clothing. Be sure to have sunglasses, hat and sunblock, as they are essential. Afternoon thunderstorms (brief) are common in Rome and inland cities, so you may want to consider bringing an umbrella. It is essential to follow dress standards (no bare shoulders or knees) and is strictly enforced in many churches, especially in Rome at St. Peter's and the Vatican Museums and at the Basilica di San Marco in Venice.
SAFETY
Remember to protect yourself against purse-snatchers and pickpockets. It is recommended that you wear a money belt or a pouch on a string around your neck, both concealed. When you have to carry a purse make sure that is around your neck and tucked between your body and arm. A word of caution: "gypsy" children are widespread in Rome, are skilled pickpockets that are quick, and know more tricks than you do.
TELEPHONES
Since hotel tend to overcharge for long distance and international calls. It is best to make such calls from public phones, using telephone cards. For general information in English dial 176. To place international telephone calls via operator assisted service, dial 170 or long distance access numbers. The country code for Italy is 39.
If you are in need of additional information or have found what you are looking for. We suggest that you complete an internet search for additional information.
Have a safe and enjoyable trip to Italy!
For more information, visit www.ItalyInfoCenter.com
www.TuscanyInfoCenter
About The Author:
David Chandler
Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_8581_29.html
About the Author: David Chandler"http://www.stockmarketgenie.com" www.StockMarketGenie.com For your FREE Stock Market Trading Mini Course: "What The Wall Street Hot Shots Won't Tell You!" go to: www.StockMarketGenie.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)