Turin, known as ‘Torino’ in Italian, lies beside a scenic stretch of the River Po, presided over by the towering peaks of the beautiful snowy Alps. This favourable spot led the famous architect Le Corbusier to describe Turin as ‘the city with the most beautiful natural location in the world’. The capital city of northern Italy’s Piedmont region, Turin has become synonymous with a cutting-edge food scene, and is known for its art, design, and innovation - weaving a rich bohemian, esoteric history with progressive creativity. The wide, stately portico-lined boulevards, fascinating museums, elegant arcades, and genteel belle epoque cafes are the perfect stomping ground for travellers seeking a unique and authentic Italian experience away from the hordes of tourists so often associated with Italian travel.
Set against the backdrop of the Italian Alps, La Morra, is a picturesque hilltop town that offers magnificent views of the rolling vineyards, villages, castles and towers of the famous winemaking region of Langhe, Piedmont in northern Italy. The town features quaint little villages within its territory, namely Annunziata, Berri, Rivalta and Santa Maria. A stroll along this stunning medieval town transports visitors back in time as they view gorgeous historic landmarks flanking the cobblestone streets, such as the Church of San Sebastiano, the Torre Campanaria di La Morra tower, and the church of San Martino. Lovers of Italian cuisine can indulge in the many cafes, bars, and restaurants across town, taste and buy wine in the Communal Cellar and see the Ratti Wine Museum at Annunziata.
Fondly known to be one of the most picturesque towns in the Italian region of Piedmont, Orta San Giulio is idyllically set overlooking the magical Lake Orto. Home to towering greenery and delightful cobble-stone streets lined with ornate buildings, this awe-inspiring destination is a must on any northern Italian itinerary. Must-see attractions include: the Sacro Monte di Orta, a Roman Catholic devotional complex set amidst lush gardens; the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, known for its striking yellow facade; and the Piazza Mario Motto, a scenic strip home to a plethora of delightful cafes surrounded by beautiful colourful houses. Orta San Giulio serves as the gateway to the enchanting Isola San Giulio - an alluring island dominated by the magical 12th-century Basilica di San Giulio, full of vibrant frescoes.
The vibrant metropolis, Milan, it the capital of Italy’s Lombardy region, in northern Italy. Always at the forefront of international fashion, Milan’s sophisticated glitzy facade has afforded it a reputation for superficiality and excessive consumerism. However, beneath its exterior hides a treasure trove of historical and architectural delights: from its glorious Gothic churches, Baroque mansions and Art Nouveau palazzos, to the striking, modern skyscrapers of the Porta Nuova financial district. Must-see sites include the spectacular Duomo Cathedral, the glass-vaulted Galleria, and of course La Scala, one of the world’s most famous opera houses. Milan caters for a broad range of interests: those in search of some glorious designer retail therapy will be well sated, but so too will those looking for fascinating historical sites and remarkable architectural marvels.
