A new trailer has been released for an upcoming crime drama on Sky that fans won’t want to miss
08:58, 07 Nov 2025Updated 09:12, 07 Nov 2025
Rising star Luca Lubrano takes on the leading role(Image: SKY)
Sky has unveiled the thrilling first trailer for an upcoming prequel series to one of their best shows.
Gomorrah – The Origins will be released in early 2026 and revealing the startling story of how Pietro Savastano, originally portrayed by Fortunato Cerlino, became one of the most notorious crime bosses in Naples.
The original Italian crime drama aired between 2014-2021 and was one of Sky’s biggest international shows, becoming a worldwide hit after airing in 190 countries.
Now, rising star Luca Lubrano steps into Pietro’s shoes in a six-part origin story kicking off in 1977.
Sky says the gripping new drama will tell “the story of how it all began — how a very young Pietro Savastano will enter a criminal world set against the backdrop of a city in transformation: poor, rough-edged, hooked on cigarette smuggling and about to enter a new era of heroin use.”
Also joining the cast are Francesco Pellegrino as reluctant gangster Angelo ‘A Sirena’, Flavio Furno as charismatic convict ‘O Paisano’, Tullia Venezia as musician Imma, who goes on to become Pietro’s wife, and Fabiola Balestriere as young mother Annalisa Magliocca before she became the notorious female drug lord Scianel.
Supporting cast includes Antonio Buono, Ciro Burzo, Luigi Cardone, Antonio Del Duca, Mattia Francesco Cozzolino, Junior Rancel Rodriguez Arcia, and Antonio Incalza.
The first trailer revealed a fun and fast-paced thriller that will nevertheless delve into Naples’ darker underbelly as fans follow the rise of one of the most iconic characters in international drama.
Based on the bestselling novel by Roberto Saviano, it’s a must-watch for fans of the original series and is also bound to attract newcomers to the franchise who will immediately want to binge all five seasons of the flagship hit.
An official synopsis for Gomorrah – The Origins from Sky reads: “Pietro is a tough city kid who grew up in the poorest parts of Secondigliano.
“He and his friends survive any way they can, riding their mopeds around town and committing petty theft.
“But he has a big dream: to become like Angelo ‘A Sirena, the neighbourhood’s ‘king’. When he manages to get in the graces of the young boss, he finds himself caught in a power game far beyond him.
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“He ends up wondering whether this dark, violent criminal life is really what he wants or if his love for Imma can save him from such a fate.”
The original series overwhelmingly received five-star reviews from fans and, with writers Leonardo Fasoli, Maddalena Ravagli and author Saviano back on board for the prequel, it’s expected to reach similar soaring heights.
One fan raved about the original Gomorrah: “I absolutely adore this show. It’s raw, realistic, and unflinchingly brutal.
“As someone hailing from the North of Italy, I was already familiar with the Camorra, but this series opened my eyes to just how merciless it can be.
“The actors deliver outstanding performances, the script is flawlessly executed, and the storyline is gripping.”
Gomorrah – The Origins premiere in early 2026 on Sky and streaming service NOW.
Italy is welcoming 19 children who were evacuated from Gaza by the World Health Organization. They’ll receive advanced medical treatment in several hospitals across the country.
On the lamp-lit steps of a sombre gothic church, a young woman stands before a microphone. Beside her, a man plucks a slow melody from his guitar. Arrayed on chairs and cobblestones in front of them, a large crowd sits in an expectant silence. From a nearby balcony, laundry sways in the sultry Calabrian breeze.
The guitar quickens, and the woman issues a string of tremulous notes with all the solemnity of a muezzin. She clutches a hand drum, beating out a rhythm that draws the crowd to its feet. As people surge forward, stamping and whirling around the square, the singing intensifies and the drum’s relentless thud deepens. The festival of Sustarìa has begun.
“Sustarìa is a word in the dialect of Lago,” says Cristina Muto, who co-founded the festival in summer 2020. “It is a creative restlessness, which doesn’t let you sit still.” We’re speaking at a drinks party the evening before the annual event, on a terrace overlooking Lago’s clay-tiled roofs, when her brother Daniele appears with a jug of local wine in hand. “Welcome to Lagos Angeles, Calabrifornia,” he winks, pouring me a cup.
‘Creative restlessness’ … The festival of Sustarìa, in Lago.
Lago is a hilltop village in the province of Cosenza, overlooking the Mediterranean. It’s surrounded by sprawling olive groves and small plots where families cultivate figs, chestnuts and local grains. Cristina and Daniele were born and raised in this grey-stoned hamlet, a medieval outpost of the Kingdom of the Lombards. Although their pride in Lago is palpable, few of the Laghitani I meet live here all year round. Like many young people from southern Italy, they have left in search of opportunities that are scarce in Calabria.
It’s against this backdrop that Cristina co-founded Sustarìa. “The trend is longstanding and severe,” she tells me, “but people still live here, and there are communities that thrive despite the problems. If more people stay or return, things will get better.” By spotlighting the allure of the region’s heritage, she hopes to play a part in this.
With agriculture historically shaping Calabria’s economy and its inhabitants’ daily lives, many traditions have agrarian roots. The dance that erupted on the festival’s first night was the tarantella. It features distinctive footwork, with dancers kicking their heels rapidly. “It’s a dance of the field workers,” Cristina says. “Some say it began as a way to sweat out venom from spider bites during harvests; others say tired workers in need of a creative outlet danced slowly and just with their feet, and over time the pace and range of movement increased.”
Olive groves at Agriturismo Cupiglione which offers guest rooms close to Lago
The vocals on display that night told of another aspect of the region’s history: its frequent colonisation. Calabria was variously conquered by Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Normans, Arabs, Lombards and Bourbons. The folk songs we heard were replete with Greek scales and Arabic cadences, a melting pot of Mediterranean timbres.
After the concert, the crowd migrated to a field by a small waterfall on the outskirts of Lago for dinner featuring regional dishes: rosamarina (the pescatarian version of nduja, known as “Calabrian caviar” made from tiny fish); fried courgette flowers; cipolla rossa di Tropea (red onions from the popular beachtown of Tropea); and pecorino crotonese, a sheep’s cheese from the Crotone province.
Over dinner I spoke with two other festival organisers, Claudia and her husband Alberto. Claudia, a Lago native, returned permanently, after a career in aerospace engineering, to run the B&B Agriturismo Cupiglione with Alberto. Nestled in woodland a few kilometres from Lago, Cupiglione was founded 25 years ago by Claudia’s parents as a restaurant with guest rooms. After closing during the pandemic, it was renovated and reopened in 2023 as a B&B with seven rooms for up to 18 guests (doubles from €40). The change in direction paid off, and Cupiglione has since welcomed hundreds of visitors to the area, evenly split between Italian and international travellers.
During my stay, I’m lodging in a house on the edge of Lago, thanks to the Sustarìa team. Hospitality runs deep during the festival; organisers open up their homes and those of their relatives to anyone who enquires through social media. Other options abound during the festival and year-round, including B&Bs such as Cupiglione and A Casa di Ely (doubles from €60), a short walk from where I stayed.
A musician playing the zampogna, an ancient form of bagpipes. Photograph: Valentina Procopio
The following afternoon, I return to the field before aperitivi, where I meet up with Cristina, who explains the growth of her initiative: “Initially, it was just locals who came to Sustarìa, but then people from other parts of Italy and even other countries started coming. Every year it grows.” This year, there are nearly 600 people in attendance.
Eric, a Londoner studying in Zurich, is one such international guest. Eric also attended Felici & Conflenti, a festival in late July hosted by friends of the Sustarìa team, which focuses on preserving and reviving the region’s ancient music. It has held 11 editions over as many years, each one featuring a winter and summer instalment, to which more people flock each year. It takes place in Conflenti, a small inland village nestled at the foot of the Reventino mountain, at the confluence of two small rivers (hence its name).
“Thanks to their work and research, instruments that were becoming extinct, like the zampogna [Italian bagpipe], are finding new life,” Cristina says.
The three of us sit chatting over plates of crisp taralli(wheat crackers)as twilight fades, and a reedy piping starts up from across the field. I stroll over, and catch sight of someone playing the zampogna, which looks like a set of bagpipes improvised from foraged materials, and is truly ancient – it counts the Roman emperor Nero among its historical admirers.
The next morning, we head to the hilltop town of Fiumefreddo Bruzio, a short drive from Lago and officially recognised as one of “Italy’s most beautiful villages”. Clinging to the western slopes of the Apennines, this medieval village offers panoramic views of the swelling coastline, which traces the Tyrrhenian Sea. Its narrow, meandering streets are lined with squat houses made of the local grey stone, quarried from the surrounding mountains. We wander around Il castello della Valle, a sprawling 13th-century Norman castle partly destroyed by Napoleonic troops, but retaining a splendid portale Rinascimentale – or Renaissance gate – still in excellent condition.
Castello della Valle in Fiumefreddo Bruzio, one of ‘Italy’s most beautiful villages’. Photograph: Yuriy Brykaylo/Alamy
At Palazzo Rossi, on the edge of town, we take a seat at a cafe and sip local craft beer as we admire the view of the active volcano Mount Stromboli, across the water.
“You should see it in the winter,” Cristina says. “The air is cooler, so it becomes even clearer. Everything here is completely different in the winter, but most people don’t see it as visitors come mainly in the summer,” she adds with a note of regret.
The sun starts to sink into the horizon. In the square, a band starts setting up for an evening gig. A waiter brings over a plate of bread and olives to our table, on the house. “Things are quieter but not empty. There are almost as many events as in summer. And you get to see how the locals live during the rest of the year.” Cristina tears off a piece of bread. “And, of course, the hospitality never changes – people are always welcomed with open arms.”
Sustarìa will return to Lago for its sixth instalment on 1-3 August 2026. There is a winter edition of Felici & Conflenti in Calabria on 27-29 December 2025; its next summer instalment is in July 2026
Pickpocketing is a major issue in popular tourist cities such as Barcelona, but it’s not Spain that tops the list as the prime location for this slick-fingered crime
Germany came out 4th for pickpocketing – pictured: Freiburg im Breisgau in Germany(Image: Michael Nguyen/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
While Barcelona is infamous for its high levels of pickpocketing, it’s not Spain that takes the crown as the prime hotspot for this nimble-fingered crime. Despite pickpocketing being a major issue – particularly for tourists – in Barcelona, the problem is rampant across Europe and beyond, with one European holiday destination dubbed the “worst” for light-fingered theft.
In tourist-heavy areas, holidaymakers must be extra vigilant with their belongings, especially in airports, train stations, underground systems, hotel lobbies or even while strolling down certain streets. UK travel insurance firm Quotezone.co.uk revealed last year that it had pinpointed where travellers were most likely to fall prey to pickpockets, singling out a location visited by 3.5 million Brits each year.
Tourists have corroborated the research with reviews on one particular visitor hotspot warning of “a lot of pickpockets in the area”. Data gathered by Quotezone showed that Italy was the prime spot where tourists are likely to be separated from their possessions by nimble-fingered thieves.
Rome’s iconic Trevi Fountain has been flagged as a hotbed for pickpocketing, with the landmark boasting over 100,000 reviews – and hundreds of mentions of “pickpockets” on TripAdvisor, reports the Express.
As a site that becomes packed from spring through to summer, visitors are cautioned to “be careful” at this “beautiful” Roman landmark.
One disgruntled holidaymaker took to TripAdvisor to vent: “You have to elbow your way to the front of the fountain. Many people gather in front and sit for hours, so sitting is almost impossible.
“We didn’t spend more than 15 minutes. Be aware of pick pockets, as you are body to body in front and around the fountain.”
Another tourist, also reviewing on TripAdvisor, described a “beautiful fountain” but warned that the area was “extremely crowded”, cautioning others to “beware of this area” due to “lots of scams and pick pockets”.
According to research by Quotezone, Italy tops the list as the prime hotspot for pickpockets, closely followed by France, with the Eiffel Tower in Paris being particularly notorious.
Currently, Google reviews of the Eiffel Tower reveal over 800 visitors citing pickpockets as a problem – and the area is swamped with tourists throughout the year.
One Google reviewer shared their experience, describing the Eiffel Tower as “enormous and breathtaking”, but they also issued a warning.
The visitor penned: “It’s a very popular place, so expect big crowds; people from all over the world gather here to admire the monument and take in the scenery.
“Because of that volume of visitors, be mindful of your belongings. Pickpockets operate in crowded tourist spots, and there are street hustles and game scammers who may try to distract you or pressure you into playing quick ‘games’ that aren’t fair.”
The reviewer added: “Keep bags zipped and close, avoid carrying valuables in easily accessible pockets, and politely decline invitations from anyone hawking games or insisting you join impromptu activities.”
Quotezone’s comprehensive European pickpocketing index has revealed Italy as the top spot, with France coming in second and Spain taking third place. These rankings are based on mentions of “pickpockets” or “stolen” per million visitors.
The researchers reached their conclusions by analysing the number of mentions of “pickpocketing” or “stolen” on traveller review websites for Europe’s top destinations, compared to the number of visitors to each country.
Greg Wilson, founder and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk, warned: “Theft can happen anywhere, and tourist hotspots are convenient places for criminals to target holidaymakers’ wallets and purses while they are busy taking in the sites.
“Many holidaymakers are unaware that some of the most popular destinations for Brits have some of the highest incidents of pickpocketing in Europe.
“Our research revealed some surprising results with Italy having the most pickpocketing mentions, yet France and Spain have much larger volumes of tourists.”
According to data from Quotezone, the “worst” European countries for pickpocketing are:
Tropea in the Calabria region of Italy has recently been voted the prettiest village in the whole country
Tropea has been voted Italy’s most beautiful town
Few places can be beaten for splendour than the duomo in Florence, and turning a corner to be greeted by the Colosseum in Rome would take anyone’s breath away.
Travel to Italy and you’re never far from a spectacular sight – be that the shores of Lake Garda, which as a dyed in the wool Cumbrian even I have to admit looks like the Lake District on steroids, to the canals, gondolas and majestic cathedral of Venice, and Verona’s amphitheatre and Juliette’s balcony to the high end shops of Milan, there really is something for everyone.
But venture a little of the beaten track, and escape the hordes of tourists battling for an inch of beach in the Amalfi coast, to travel south to the untapped and undiscovered region known as Calabria and you’ll step into the ‘real Italy’ – and back in time.
One of the crown jewels of this region, which is Italy’s poorest, is the stunning medieval town of Tropea, where I was lucky enough to spend a blissful week. And it’s not just me who’s a fan, the town was recently voted the prettiest in Italy, which I think we can all agree means it was up against some stiff competition.
Nestled into the cliffs above the Tyrrhenian Sea, this ancient town tumbles down the rock face and into the turquoise blue of the ocean.
Surrounded by stunning golden beaches with plenty of room to feel like you have them to yourself, this town has a magical dream-like quality.
Tropea has survived it all – invasions, earthquakes and bombings – to stand proud on the clifftops. Its array of noble palaces and stunning churches, all contained within the winding, cobbled streets of the old town.
I was lucky enough to spend a week in Calabria with Tropea as my base. A glorious sunny October afternoon spent strolling through its streets, with secret, hidden alleys at every turn, and sampling the delicious food from the region, including the sweet, red onions and spicy ndjua, was an utter delight.
Stopping for one of the most delicious ice-creams I’ve ever eaten while overlooking the awe-inspiring Tyrrhenian from one of the many viewing points in this quaint little town quite simply took my breath away. Meanwhile, stopping for a crisp, white wine in an ancient tavern half way up the cliff face on my way back from the beach was the perfect way to while away a few hours.
If it’s history you’re after, then Tropea has it in bucketloads – from the cathedral to the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola, the church on the rock, gazing out into the wide expanse of azure sea.
From the incredible viewing points, you have an amazing view of Stomboli, the still erupting volcano which lights up the night sky every evening off this part of the coast of Italy.
I have but one complaint about this undiscovered, Italian hidden gem – and that’s that I don’t live there and only got to spend a week wandering its beautiful streets.
Video shows part of Rome’s medieval Torre dei Conti collapse for a second time during a restoration near the Colosseum. One seriously injured worker remained trapped Monday evening with firefighters continuing a high-risk rescue as the tower’s stability is assessed.
Beyond tourism hotspots such as Venice, Amalfi and Rome, Italy has no end of enticements – whether its historical sites, delicious food or impressive landscapes that you’re looking for. We want to hear about your discoveries in less well known parts of the country – perhaps it was a small mountain resort, an overlooked coastal town or a wild hiking trail.
The best tip of the week, chosen by Tom Hall of Lonely Planetwins a £200 voucher to stay at a Coolstays property – the company has more than 3,000 worldwide. The best tips will appear in the Guardian Travel section and website.
Keep your tip to about 100 words
If you have a relevant photo, do send it in – but it’s your words we will be judgingfor the competition.
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People travelling to the county next year may need to check their travel insurance
15:06, 29 Oct 2025Updated 15:08, 29 Oct 2025
The travel advice for Italy has been updated (Image: Getty)
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel guidance for Italy. The FCDO regularly offers and updates travel advice for 226 countries and territories worldwide, covering a range of topics including warnings, insurance, and entry requirements.
The latest update was shared last week and remains current today, October 29. The update saw the FCDO issue new information about the upcoming Winter Olympics and Paralympic Games planned to take place in Italy from February 6 to 22 and March 6 to 15. As outlined on the website, the updates were made to the ‘Warnings and insurance’ and ‘Safety and security’ pages.
The warnings and insurance page covers steps to follow before travel, travel insurance, and where to find travel advice updates. In an alert regarding travel insurance, the Foreign Office said: “If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.”
The guidelines state that travel insurance should cover all activities included in your holiday, including sports and adventure tourism, which could require specialist insurance. The safety and security page covers topics including terrorism threats, crime, laws and cultural differences, winter sports, and outdoor activities and adventure tourism.
In an alert regarding winter sports, the Foreign Office said: “Get advice on weather and avalanche conditions before you travel and familiarise yourself with local skiing laws and regulations. You can contact the Italian State Tourist Board for advice on safety and weather conditions before you travel.”
The advice also highlighted regulations for the ski season. It stated: “From 1 November 2025, all skiers, snowboarders, sledders, and tobogganers will be required to wear CE-certified helmets at all ski resorts. This law applies regardless of age or activity. Failing to do so risks a fine of up to €200 and ski pass suspension for up to 3 days.”
There’s also guidance for travellers planning to engage in outdoor activities and adventure tourism. The advice states: “Hiking, mountaineering and other adventure sports have specific risks. Check the company is well-established in the industry and make sure your insurance covers these activities.
“For sports activities like skiing, potholing and mountaineering, and for sports classed as particularly dangerous, such as off-piste skiing, mountain biking, climbing, paragliding or BASE jumping, your insurance should include:
mountain rescue services
helicopter costs
repatriation to your country of residence or transfer to neighbouring countries for treatment.”
The advice could be particularly useful for anyone attending the Olympic Games and who hopes to take part in winter activities during their trip. You should always check the weather forecasts and conditions before taking part in activities such as hiking or mountaineering, ensuring you’re properly equipped in case of an emergency.
Anyone planning a visit should read the general advice set out on the ‘Winter Olympics’ page. It states: “Italy will host the Winter Olympic Games from 6 to 22 February and the Paralympic Winter Games from 6 to 15 March. Competitions will be hosted across several distant locations in Lombardy and Northeast Italy.
If you are planning to attend:
sign up to get email alerts about Italy’s travel advice
check the official Olympics website for a calendar of events, venue information, ticket sales and to stay informed of anything that might affect your travel or plans
keep your personal belongings and valuables safe, if your passport is lost and stolen, check the Getting help page.”
It also directs people to other advice pages, including the advice about winter sports and travel insurance previously mentioned.
If you’re thinking of visiting a European Christmas market, this one isn’t well-known, but is packed with festive activities. Thanks to a special themed train, even the journey there is fun
Arezzo’s Christmas market will have a cosy traditional vibe(Image: Arezzo Intour Foundation)
While there are loads of incredible Christmas markets in the UK, visiting one in Europe is a whole other experience. Many European Christmas markets are bigger, and they often have unique features that make for a memorable festive outing.
One market that’s bound to appeal to Christmas-enthusiasts is in Arezzo, Italy, a historic city that’s surrounded by Tuscan hills and can be found just over an hour’s train ride from Rome.
While this train ride is already a picturesque journey, in the run up to Christmas the train company La Ferroviaria Italiana (LFI) will run their Espresso Assisi service with trains decked out in festive decorations. There will also be Christmas music playing, and a “small gift” for each passenger, getting you into the spirit of the season.
Once you arrive, you can browse a vast Christmas market in the heart of this charming medieval city. Arezzo’s Piazza Grande will host the Tyrolean Village market from November 15 to December 28, which is based on the traditional markets of the northern region of Tyrol, as well as having German and Austrian influences. Browse the small wooden huts and find hand-crafted items from handblown baubles to nativity figurines.
Visit between November 15 and January 6 and there’s also an additional Art Market, which will be full of artisanal crafts, as well as offering local speciality food stalls. The market opens until 9pm on some dates, which means you can see the streets lit-up after dark.
Arezzo will also have an ice rink, again with late opening hours, so you can enjoy the festive atmosphere at night. After sunset, visit La Luna di Natale (Christmas moon), a giant model of the moon that lights up. You can also take a stroll through Il Bosco delle Emozioni (the forest of emotions), a Christmas light trail surrounded by pine trees with free entry. Or hop on the Ferris wheel for amazing views of the city.
The Arezzo Christmas Bus Tour is also a good way to explore the city. This small electric bus takes you through the narrow streets and squares, with the tour taking 40-minutes and costing 12 euros (approx. £10.57).
If you’re planning to stay in the picturesque spot for a little longer, you can also visit Arezzo Cathedral, which sits on a hilltop and has spectacular frescoes and stained glass. There’s also the Basilica di San Francesco, which is home of the famous Legends of the True Cross frescoes, which date back to early Renaissance times.
Casa Vasari is also a great place to see Renaissance artworks, sculptures, and more. Set in a historic home that once belonged to artist Giorgio Vasari, this collection includes his own works from the 16th-century, as well as artists he collaborated with.
Ryanair offer flights to Rome from London Stansted from just £18 one way, with flight times of two hours 45 minutes. You can also fly with airlines including Jet2, whose Manchester to Rome flights clock in at three hours and start at £35 each way.
One overlooked Italian city with a “unique spirit” stood out as a favourite to a seasoned travel writer who’s been to Florence, Venice, Rome and several more cities in Italy.
Gorgeous Italian city has “the best food” and an exceptional atmosphere(Image: Michele Lapini/Getty Images)
A traveller who’s visited nine Italian cities has proclaimed one in particular is his favourite – and it’s not such a well-known destination. Being less touristy is all part of the appeal of this continental city and the “unique spirit” of the place was what made it really special, along with the exceptional Italian food.
Journalist Adam Miller detailed his visit to this stunning city, describing the experience as being “worlds away” from a stay in Rome or Venice.
The writer had already been to “Florence, Rome, Venice, Milan, Verona, Siena, Lucca, Pisa, and Bergamo” which he loved, but then he discovered a new city that’s become a firm favourite.
Travelling to the city of Bologna in Italy for the first time (in August 2025), Adam was enchanted by the liveliness, the terracotta buildings and “the best food” he’d “ever eaten”.
Writing for the Metro Travel Hot Takes, Adam described Bologna: “The real magic of Bologna is in its simplicity. Everything feels so calm and easy. Eating, drinking, exploring – it all feels effortless compared to Florence, Venice, or Rome.
“I can’t imagine staying anywhere else in Italy for a city break now, especially when the Italian train service is so cheap and efficient. Florence is close, Venice is only 70 minutes away, and tickets can be as cheap as £13, so it also makes a great detour destination.”
Adam describes the bustling city, but explained it was miles apart from the atmosphere of a weekend night out in the UK; he said the energy of Bologna was “unique” and that it had become his “favourite” Italian city.
TripAdvisor reviewers who have also visited the city of Bologna rate the church, Santuario di Madonna di San Luca as a must-visit, describing it as a “unique experience” and having fantastic views from the site.
One visitor reviewing the church on TripAdvisor wrote: “Very suggestive place on the hills of Bologna, which can be reached through a not too strenuous walk under long porches, possibly starting from the monumental cemetery of the Certosa (equally suggestive place, which I absolutely recommend to visit).
“The arcades are well maintained and the same applies to the area in front of the sanctuary; the view, once arrived, is magnificent.”
Another visitor to the Santuario di Madonna di San Luca wrote: “It is a beautiful Baroque basilica perfectly maintained both inside and outside. It is located in the hills which allows you to enjoy a beautiful view of the city and the surrounding hills.
“You can reach it by taxi, with the train that leaves from Piazza Maggiore but the most exciting experience is to do it on foot by climbing for about 4km, about 500 steps, under the longest porch in the world that starts from the city centre – not to be missed.”
Other top-rated Bologna visitor experiences according to TripAdvisor include the square in the heart of the city, Piazza Maggiore and observation deck, Le Due Torri Torre degli Asinelli for its far-reaching views.
The Porticoes of Bologna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also described as unforgettable for its stunning Bolognese architecture of red-stone columns and magnificent arches.
A content creator duo, who focus on travel and lifestyle, have revealed a location which has one of the ‘best Christmas markets in Europe’ – and you’ve probably never even heard of it before
Samantha Bartlett Assistant Editor, Social News
08:06, 25 Oct 2025Updated 08:16, 25 Oct 2025
The Italian Christmas market has been described as ‘magical’ (file)(Image: Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
It’s that time of year when people are busy looking for somewhere with a magical Christmas market to visit, and if you’re searching for somewhere new this festive season, then you may want to listen up.
A content creator duo, who focus on travel and lifestyle, have revealed a location which has one of the ‘best Christmas markets in Italy‘ – and you’ve probably never even heard of it before. Trento’s Christmas market takes place in the city of Trento, in the region of Trentino in Northern Italy. The market, which was first established in 1993, features numerous wooden huts and stalls as well as two main squares: Piazza Fiera and Piazza Mostra in the historic centre.
Talking about the European market, couple Francesca & Tommaso, also known as @takemyhearteverywhere on TikTok, told their 153,000 followers: “You’ve probably never heard of Trento’s Christmas markets — but they’re among the most magical in Italy.
“This small Alpine city turns into a winter postcard every year, with traditional wooden stalls, twinkling lights and snowy mountains in the background.”
They revealed that Piazza Fiera is the main square where you can find the food, crafts, and festive lights. Meanwhile, Piazza Mostra is “more intimate” and focused on handmade gifts and decorations.
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Those planning to visit the market can do so from November 21, with it running until January 6. Opening hours are 10am-8pm daily, while the food area is open until 9pm on a Friday and Saturday.
Sharing their tips, the couple named their “must-try” products as vin brulé, tortel di patate and canederli, strudel.
They also praised the market for being “one of the greenest: in Europe, with it being plastic-free and powered by renewables.
As well as the information, the couple shared a video montage of the market, as they held up cream-topped hot chocolates, showed off the adorable market stalls and tasty food on offer and gave a glimpse of Santa, the big wheel and the train at the market.
People were loving the travel tip, with the post racking up more than 19,000 likes.
One person exclaimed: “Oh wow,” after watching the clip, while another said it looked like it was ‘straight out of a Christmas movie”.
A third chimed in: “Wow, this looks like a Christmas wonderland.”
While a fourth agreed: “This looks so magical!”
How can you get there?
Those planning to visit Trento can fly into a nearby airport such as Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN), with the flight taking just two hours form London and costing as little as £40 for a return.
From Verona airport, visitors can take a train to Trento, which takes around 1 hour 20 minutes, with the market a 5/10 minute walk from the station.
Train and coach journeys are also available, however these take far longer and can range from 13-29 hours each way.
Our writer Abby Wells soaks up the culture on a wonderful weekend in the Italian capital, featuring incredible history, authentic cuisine and top tourist attractions
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We discovered some of Rome’s top hotspots and hidden gems(Image: Getty Images)
Having never been to Italy before, I was very excited to see what its capital city had to offer – and it certainly didn’t disappoint. After leaving rainy England and landing in Rome’s significantly sunnier weather just over two hours later, I was immediately smitten with the architecture, the people, the food and the history.
Where to stay in Rome
I arrived at the Grand Hotel Palace Rome in the centre of the city in the heat of the afternoon sun as I was visiting back in the summer. Walking into the cool reception, with its calm and inviting decor, was a refreshing welcome.
Restored in 2010, this boutique hotel now blends timeless Italian design with 21st-century modernity – think marble floors, huge chandeliers and stunning frescoes. Despite having 74 bedrooms and 12 luxurious suites, it has an intimate feel.
My superior room was spacious and decorated in pastel hues. It had impressive city views and was a real haven away from the hustle and bustle of the crowds outside.
This city is best explored on foot, so comfy shoes are a suitcase essential. The grand architecture is guaranteed to impress as you wander around with your gelato.
Our hotel was a stone’s throw from the gorgeous Villa Borghese, Rome’s largest park, which has landscaped gardens, sculptures and fountains, a zoo and even a replica of London’s Globe Theatre. I recommend heading to the Pincio terrace, which offers panoramic views of the city, including the famous domed roof of Saint Peter’s Basilica in the distance.
The Spanish Steps are a 10-minute walk from the hotel and although it was very busy here with tourists, I managed to find the perfect spot to sit and people watch – Babington’s tea rooms, which dates back to 1893 and is a must for tea lovers.
You can’t go to Rome and not visit Trevi Fountain. Tradition says that if you throw a coin into the fountain, you will return to the city. Already keen to visit again, I joined in.
What really struck me was how big it was. Measuring 26 metres high, it’s the biggest fountain in Rome, and undoubtedly the most magnificent. You need to join the queuing system to get close to the fountain, but this did move very quickly when I went at 9am.
Visiting the Colosseum is another must and I highly recommend booking a guided tour. My guide, Max, was extremely knowledgeable but also managed to add some humour. It was amazing seeing the huge arena where gladiators used to fight in front of thousands of people. Be sure to pre-book and get there in plenty of time, as getting through security takes a while.
After a long day of sightseeing, you can treat your tired feet to a pamper at Grand Hotel Palace’s Fusion Spa, an Asian-inspired oasis with a sauna, indoor heated saltwater pool and relaxation areas, plus a choice of indulgent treatments.
Where to eat in Rome
You’re spoilt for choice for places to eat in Rome. On every street there are lovely little tabernas strewn with fairy lights, pizzerias or shops serving gelato in every flavour imaginable.
On my first night I enjoyed the tasting menu at Grand Hotel Palace’s Ristorante Cadorin. I feasted on four courses, but the best was saved for last – the tiramisu was heavenly. I went to bed very happy with a full stomach. The hotel breakfast was buffet-style, with optional extras available to order.
If you’re looking for a traditional Italian restaurant, I recommend Checco Er Carettiere in an area called Trastevere. Tucked away down a side street, it’s family-run, serves authentic Roman dishes and has a pretty courtyard out the back. My pasta dish was just as you’d expect: utterly delicious.
If you’re a fan of fish, Il San Lorenzo is worth a visit. This sleek restaurant is reputed to offer the best seafood restaurant in Rome. If you do find yourself eating your body weight in pizza and pasta, don’t worry, as you’ll soon walk it off exploring this amazing ancient city.
Real Madrid see off improved Juventus in UCL win, while Liverpool come back in Frankfurt and Victor Osimhen stars again.
Jude Bellingham scored his first goal since June as Real Madrid saw off a spirited performance by Juventus to win 1-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu and maintain their 100 percent record in this season’s Champions League.
The goal on Wednesday was created by Vinicius Jr, who in the 58th minute took on three Juventus players and made space to shoot. His attempt rebounded off the post for Bellingham to slot home his first goal of the season since returning from shoulder surgery.
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Juve are winless since September 13 and have gone seven consecutive matches without a victory in all competitions. They have secured just two points from three Champions League games, while Madrid have nine points.
The Italians did, however, draw a number of fine saves from Real keeper Thibaut Courtois as they defied the record Champions League winners for nearly an hour.
The Belgium international stopper remained pivotal even in the dying moments as Juve applied the pressure in search of an equaliser, with Filip Kostic’s long-range strike needing to be pummelled away.
Liverpool come from a goal down in Frankfurt
Liverpool emphatically rebounded from a miserable run as it won 5-1 at Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League on Wednesday.
There were also comfortable wins for Chelsea and Bayern Munich.
Liverpool travelled to Germany on a four-game losing streak that included Sunday’s home defeat to Manchester United in the Premier League. Among its recent setbacks was also a loss at Galatasaray in its second league-phase match.
Rasmus Kristensen gave the home side the lead in the 26th minute, but Liverpool levelled nine minutes later through former Frankfurt player Hugo Ekitike, who outsprinted three of his former teammates before firing a low effort under Michael Zetterer.
Ekitike didn’t celebrate but raised his hands in an apologetic gesture.
Virgil Van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate headed in corners within five minutes of each other to give Liverpool a comfortable halftime lead.
Florian Wirtz provided his first Champions League assist in the 66th, setting up Cody Gakpo for a tap-in, and he did it again four minutes later for a low drive from Dominik Szoboszlai from 30 meters out.
Chelsea beat Ajax 5-1, while Bayern topped Club Brugge 4-0.
Nigeria’s Osimhen shines again for Galatasaray
Victor Osimhen continued his impressive scoring record in Europe to help Galatasaray to a 3-1 win over Bodo/Glimt.
Osimhen netted two first-half goals to extend his scoring streak in continental competition to seven outings – with nine goals in that period – stretching back to Galatasaray’s Europa League campaign last term.
The Nigerian forward came close to a hat-trick on several occasions, notably in the 60th minute when his attempt was parried by Nikita Haikin, but Yunus Akgun tucked away the rebound for Galatasaray’s third.
Substitute Andreas Helmersen grabbed a consolation for Bodø/Glimt shortly after coming off the bench.
Substitute Roberto Navarro had an immediate – and stunning – impact as he helped Athletic Bilbao to its first points in this season’s Champions League, with a 3-1 comeback victory over Qarabag.
Navarro was brought on in the 65th minute, with the score 1-1, and gave the hosts the lead five minutes later with a delightful curled finish into the far corner.
Qarabag, which was surprisingly perfect going into the encounter, had taken the lead after just 49 seconds through Leandro Andrade.
But Gorka Guruzeta levelled shortly before halftime and also gave his team a two-goal cushion with full-time looming.
Thrill-seeker Orson Bourne visited a theme park in Italy, but later outlined several complaints and branded it the ‘worst’ he’d visited – but people don’t agree with his assessment
Alan Johnson Social News Reporter
15:01, 17 Oct 2025Updated 18:29, 17 Oct 2025
Gardaland amusement park located in North-Eastern Italy (file)(Image: MNS Studio via Getty Images)
A thrill-seeker has expressed his frustration by admitting he “felt so disappointed” after visiting one of the most popular theme parks in Europe. Orson Bourne travelled to Italy and headed to Gardaland – a park in Verona owned by Merlin Entertainments, which also operates Alton Towers, Legoland and dozens of other resorts and attractions.
The resort boasts numerous rides and ‘lands’ dedicated to a variety of well-known franchises, including Jumanji, Peppa Pig and Peter Pan – but Orson was clearly unimpressed as he revealed in a review shared to TikTok. “Gardaland takes the biscuit, it’s the worst theme park I’ve ever been to,” he said in a video.
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Orson he had to “penetrate a wall of Italian policing” prior to entry, such is the high level of security enforced by Gardaland’s owners.
He continued to complain, claiming that ropes had “cut off” half of the park on his arrival owing to their later opening times.
Orson’s first port of call was the Jumanji ride, however, he was clearly less than impressed. “All it was was screens, pitch-black corridors and emergency exit signs,” he said.
Next was the rollercoaster, Sharman, which again didn’t live up to it’s billing, according to Orson. “I spent 20 minutes queuing up, but found it actually opens at 12 – not 11, or at 10 when the park actually opened.”
Orson moved on to the newly remodelled Dragon Empire only to discover the China-themed area was also closed until 12pm.
Like its UK cousin, Alton Towers, meanwhile, Gardaland is also home to an Oblivion ride, which sees guests plummet vertically through a black hole underground. “Only a 40-minute queue to get into the queue – where you have to then queue for another 80 minutes,” Orson alleged, pointing that the park’s app only stated a 60-minute waiting time.
He added that whilst it is longer than the Oblivion back home, the Italian ride “lacked any forces”.
Orson gave another coaster – Blue Tornado – “a miss” due to its 120-minute waiting time, before slating the park’s policy on drinks – alleging staff prevented him from refilling his bottle with water. “Coffee machines at other kiosks we broken so I gave up and bought a Coke instead,” he added.
Hoping to cool off on a water ride, Orson was again put off by a “two-hour queue” on the Fuga da Atlantide log flume, before his second attempt to ride Sharman proved futile as the ride broke down an hour after he joined the queue.
Orson continued, moving on to the ‘wing coaster’, Raptor. “I waited 20 minutes in the single-rider line and it’s advertised at 80 [minutes],” he said. “It’s only one train though. It’s diabolical… one train for your main coaster.”
He closed: “I hate to be a grouch, but I think I’m going to leave. The park’s getting busier and it’s open until nine and I’m just not having fun, so what’s the point?”
Orson couldn’t resist riding steel rollercoaster, Mammut on his way out though – something that left him pleasantly surprised. “Credit where it’s due,” he praised. “A fantastic family coaster, though not so fantastic with the operations – I was told ‘no single riders’, but luckily I was able to squeeze on.”
He summed the day up in a caption: “Never has a park been so disappointing. Jumanji was so high on my bucket list for dark rides but the ride just wasn’t in a good state, it felt old and uncared for, 0 immersion and broke done frequently. As did most of the park, Its a shame as the park has the infrastructure to be an amazing place. I struggle to find a positive.”
Writing in response, however, others detailed their positive Gardaland experiences. “Love Gardaland, I live close by and go there each summer with the ticket from 6pm,” one person said. “Last time I did 11 rides (Shaman twice, Raptor, Oblivion, Jungle Rapids, Prezzemolo Magic House). I think parks in US are better, but for Italy it’s fine.”
Another praised: “You were just unlucky to go on a crowded day. I’ve always gone in October during the week and the longest I’ve waited for any attraction has been ten minutes. I love Gardaland, but you have to go when you know that children are at school and many are working.”
And a third TikTok user added: “I went to Gardaland multiple times. You went on a busy day without express so that explains the queues. In my later visits the operation were awesome and they were running all trains and everything was good. Raptor is pretty forceful in my opinion.”
One individual who agreed with Orson, hit out: “Happens when there is no alternative. There are only 2-3 big theme parks in the whole country with actual coasters, all of them are always so busy at the point that it isn’t possible to have fun.”
A Gardaland spokesperson said: “We truly value all feedback from our guests, as it helps us improve and offer the best possible experience at Gardaland Resort. We appreciate that this visitor’s experience did not meet his expectations, and we’re always committed to learning from such feedback to continue enhancing our guests’ enjoyment. Every season, we welcome millions of visitors who share very positive experiences, and we always strive to ensure that each guest leaves with great memories.
“Gardaland Resort welcomes around 3 million visitors every year and, in over 50 years of operation, has hosted more than 100 million people from all over the world. Our daily commitment is to offer memorable experiences to families and visitors of all ages, thanks to the quality of our attractions, food and beverage offerings, and the many dedicated services available.
“We understand that the guest’s visit took place during Gardaland Oktoberfest, one of our most popular seasonal events which – together with Gardaland Magic Halloween (currently underway) and Gardaland Magic Winter – has been attracting thousands of visitors for over 20 years, consistently receiving extremely positive feedback. As is the case in all major theme parks, waiting times can vary depending on attendance levels and attraction opening hours. An unfortunate single occurrence does not represent the experience that thousands of families enjoy at Gardaland every day, and we would be delighted to welcome this guest back to rediscover the magic of the Park.
“Confident that we will continue to offer magical and memorable experiences for all our guests, we remain available should the visitor wish to provide us with further details, so that we may look into this further.”
In the global trade storm unleashed since US President Donald Trump’s return to power, Italian pasta producers are feeling very much alone — while their case is a special one.
On 4 September, the US Department of Commerce announced preliminary tariffs of 91.74% on 13 pasta brands.
If upheld, the tariffs would take effect in January 2026, delivering a significant blow to Italy, which exported nearly €700 million worth of pasta to the United States in 2024.
Admittedly, the case is not new. It originated in 1996, when US pasta producers accused Italian manufacturers of dumping — selling their products in the American market at prices lower than those in Italy.
Since then, Italian producers have been regularly subject to tariffs, but never of the magnitude now decided by the Trump administration.
“It’s unfair, it’s a protectionist action of the US against Italian pasta,” Margherita Mastromauro, president of Unione Italiana Food, the largest association of food producers in Italy, told Euronews.
“We need help, because a large part of our companies are involved. With a duty so high, it means that all these companies will not export until the new review will be done.”
The investigation concerned the period between 1 July 2023 and 30 June 2024, Italian producers hope the review of the year 2025 will bring them some relief. But for now, the future remains uncertain.
Can the fight become political?
The companies have been scrambling to get these tariffs lifted since September.
Two of them, Garofalo and La Molisana, have taken legal action against the decision.
The Italian government and the European Commission have begun to get involved. However, room for manoeuvre remains limited in what is, according to the president of Unione Italiana Food, more a “legal” than a “political” matter.
The Italian Foreign Ministry has said the duties were “disproportionate” and has joined the case as an “interested party” to weigh in favour of this key sector of Italy’s economy.
On its side, the Commission told Euronews that the issue could be raised within the framework of the new dialogue initiated with the Trump administration on tariffs, since the agreement reached in July ended weeks of discord between the two sides of the Atlantic.
But an EU official also conceded that, unlike the unilateral tariffs imposed on other European products — which violate rules of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) — the US anti-dumping action against pasta appears to be done traditionally, as a trade defence mechanism allowed by the WTO, which regulates international trade between its member countries.
“We are closely monitoring the case, and if there are flaws in the investigation, we will question it and we will raise the issue with the WTO,” the official told Euronews.
If that were the case, it could lead to retaliatory measures from the EU.
Socialist Italian MEP Brando Benifei, who leads the parliamentary delegation for relations with the US, condemned the US action that he considers “clearly discriminatory”.
“This has to be solved and we urge the Commission to act through,” Benifei told Euronews.
The island was named the sunniest place in the UK by the Met Office – and it gets more sunshine than parts of Italy during the winter months
The stunning island is the ‘sunniest place in the UK’(Image: nicolamargaret via Getty Images)
You don’t need to jet off to far-flung destinations for a dose of winter sun – there’s a UK island that boasts more sunshine than parts of Italy.
The Isle of Wight has been crowned the sunniest spot in the UK by the Met Office, outshining even Milan and Geneva during the winter months.
According to research from Isle Escapes, the island enjoys an average of 78 hours of sunshine per month between November and February.
That’s a staggering 12 percent more than Milan’s 70 average hours, 15 percent more than Geneva’s 68 hours, and 20 percent more than Paris’ 65 average winter sunshine hours.
This balmy climate could be due to the warming effect of the Solent – the strait that separates the Isle of Wight from mainland England, reports the Express.
The island benefits from its own micro-climate, which means it typically avoids extreme weather conditions like heavy snowfall and thunderstorms during the winter season.
Not only is it the sunniest place in the UK, but this is particularly noticeable during the winter, when the Isle of Wight basks in 42 percent more sunshine hours than the rest of the country.
If you’re keen to soak up some of this sun for yourself, the Isle of Wight offers a fantastic island getaway without straying too far from home.
Located just off the coast of Hampshire, the island is renowned as Britain’s dinosaur capital, with the remains of over 20 species discovered on the island.
The Isle of Wight is a top-notch destination for cycling enthusiasts, boasting numerous tracks and paths that crisscross the island.
For those up to the challenge, you can cycle around the island in a day – a well-signposted route of approximately 105km.
While mostly flat, there are some inclines that will give your thighs a workout, and it can get breezy, so be prepared.
If you’re after a more laid-back holiday, the Isle of Wight has plenty to offer. There’s a host of family-friendly attractions, including the Monkey Haven animal sanctuary, home to meerkats, gibbons, and even snakes, all cared for by keepers who love to chat about their work.
History buffs can visit Osborne – Queen Victoria’s country retreat and family home, now open for tours. After her first visit to Osborne, Queen Victoria wrote: ‘It is impossible to imagine a prettier spot’, and she wasn’t wrong.
A trip to Osborne offers something for everyone. Inside the house, you’ll get a glimpse into Royal life as you explore private apartments and grand reception rooms filled with beautiful furnishings and artworks from the Royal Collection.
And if the sun is out (which it likely will be), you can stroll through flower-filled gardens and relax on the beach where the Royal children learnt to swim.
If you’re yearning for a trip to the Isle of Wight, it’s easy to reach from mainland UK. Daily flights depart from Heathrow and Gatwick, or you can opt to fly to Bournemouth or Southampton before hopping on one of the 150 ferry connections to the island which take as little as 45 minutes.
Since the Isle of Wight is part of the UK, there’s no need for your passport – just pack your bag and perhaps a sunhat.
Anyone who has a holiday in Rome coming up has been issued a warning. One holidaymaker who has just been to the Italian capital told people to be on ‘high alert’ when visiting
A string of incidents have occurred in the city recently (file)(Image: Gary Yeowell via Getty Images)
A holidaymaker in Rome has issued a stark warning to fellow tourists heading to the Italian capital after enduring a horrifying experience during her break. Caroline Jansson turned to TikTok to reveal she had been “robbed of all of her personal belongings” and urged others visiting the city to stay alert to their surroundings.
“I’ve just been with the police and they told me they [thieves] specifically target tourists,” she began in a video. She went on, explaining that those with hire cars should stay especially watchful after learning at the police station that numerous others had fallen victim to luggage theft straight from their rented vehicles.
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“I talked to one woman who turned around to take a picture and she had her handbag stolen,” Caroline continued.
“There was another man who had his wallet and passport stolen out of his hand – so be very vigilant and look out for each other and each others’ suitcases because literally everything we had with us for the trip is now gone.”
Caroline revealed that consequently, she had lost numerous valuables including her iPad and two laptops in the European hotspot. Luckily one of those was a MacBook, enabling her to trace and find it inside one of the pinched bags – only to discover it had been abandoned in a ditch with no trace of her other belongings.
“We’re going to continue talking to the police and see how it goes,” Caroline said, before issuing a heartfelt plea to her followers to keep an eye out for her luggage if they happen to be in Rome.
In response, another tourist shared their own experience of theft in Rome. “We were robbed in the Rome train station,” they revealed. “Luckily an officer noticed this guy with a bag that didn’t match his look and we got it back. We were so lucky.”
A second person also revealed: “We were robbed, had our van smashed and they stole phones, iPads, handbag, money, camera. Police not interested. We were in a secure patrolled car park.”
Whilst a third TikTok user warned: “A group of three tried to pickpocket me and my husband on a very crowded bus. Just be careful and keep your belongings close to you and be aware.”
The UK government’s foreign travel advice section offers the following guidance for those visiting Rome, meanwhile.
“Thefts from parked cars happen in Rome, particularly in the Colosseum area, Ostia, Milan and Pisa. Thieves also target coastal areas and towns, and motorway service stations. Avoid leaving luggage in your vehicle – even out of sight in the boot – for any length of time.
“Thieves may use a variety of methods to distract you or encourage you to stop your car, including asking for help or directions or pointing out a fictional fault with your car.”
To reduce your personal risk:
keep sight of your belongings at all times
beware of thieves using distraction techniques
avoid carrying all your valuables together in handbags or pockets
leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place such as a hotel safe
Riot police used tear gas and water cannons to break up pro-Palestinian protests at Israel’s World Cup qualifier against Italy. Defeat for Israel in the match effectively ended the team’s hopes of automatic qualification.
Venice is one of the most visited cities in the world, but there’s a nearby Italian city that’s just as beautiful and historic – and without the crowds of tourists
The historic city is just 25 miles from Venice(Image: GETTY-STOCK)
Venice – the jewel of Italy‘s lagoon – draws in millions of tourists each year.
However, its immense global appeal is causing a strain on both the locals and the city’s infrastructure, leading to the local government implementing a series of measures in recent months to mitigate the effects of overtourism.
Despite the temporary entry fee imposed on day-trippers this summer and restrictions on group tours, tourists continue to flock to Venice. But for those seeking to dodge the crowds, there are plenty of alternative destinations nearby.
Padua, or Padova as it’s known to Italians, is a historic city just 25 miles west of Venice. Situated in the same region as the lagoon, Veneto, Padua boasts two UNESCO World Heritage List entries.
The first, the botanical garden – Orto Botanico di Padova – is the world’s oldest still in its original location, dating back to 1545. Covering approximately 240,000 square feet, the Orto Botanico is renowned for its collections, including one of insectivorous plants and another of medicinal and poisonous species.
The second UNESCO-listed site in Padua is the Scrovegni Chapel, an awe-inspiring church adorned by Italian artist Giotto at the start of the 14th century. Padua also houses one of the world’s oldest universities, where history-making figures such as Galileo Galilei and Nicolaus Copernicus either studied or taught.
Padua is an ideal spot for those who enjoy city centre strolls, with Piazza delle Erbe, one of its main squares, being a hub of local activity since medieval times.
Much like its famous neighbour Venice, it boasts its own canals, including a petite one that meanders through the breathtaking Prato della Valle square.
Padua also serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider region, reports the Express. With train tickets to Venice costing as little as £4.21, tourists can experience the lagoon city, just half an hour away, while saving on accommodation costs.
Likewise, holidaymakers in the area can take a trip to Verona, internationally renowned due to Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The journey ranges from 45 to 90 minutes, depending on the chosen train service.