Best Pasta in Rome: 9 Dishes and Where to Eat Them

carbonara pasta with cheese in Rome

It is impossible to talk about food in Italy without talking about pasta. There is dried pasta, and fresh pasta, in hundred of shapes with a range of toppings. So where, exactly do you find the best pasta in Rome? That depends on what pasta dish you want to eat. There are four classic Roman […]

Impressionisti Segreti: Secret Impressionists Exhibit in Rome

palazzo bonaparte Rome palace

One of the best art shows that I have seen in Rome in recent memory is the Impressionisti Segreti exhibit that is now on show at the recently restored Palazzo Bonaparte. The “secret impressionists” show features more than 50 works by artists including Renoir, Monet, Gaugin, and Cézanne. There are also some fantastic pieces by […]

Public Holidays in Italy

text public holidays in Italy overlaid on Venice Canal

Every year, Italy celebrates 12 official public holidays. These days of rest and celebration range from national days to religious holidays which are widely observed by a majority of the public.  During public holidays in Italy, institutions like schools and post offices will be closed. Most private businesses also close on these official national holidays […]

Scuola del Cuoio: Florence Leather School

leather school in florence with walls lined with bags

Florence is a city that is absolutely renowned for its leather tradition. If you are searching for a Made in Italy handbag or leather jacket to take home, Firenze is the place to get it. However, this fame for leather means that you will find shops peddling counterfeit or imported goods in every corner of […]

Complete Guide to the Florence Train Station (SM Novella)

main waiting area in Firenze santa maria novella station

If you are traveling between Rome and Florence by train (or using Florence as a base to explore any other parts of Italy by train), you are going to be spending time at the main Florence train station. Known as Firenze Santa Maria Novella, the station is located within an easy walk of the center […]