city-naples Archives - MapQuest Travel

The 6 Most Beautiful Views In Italy

Posted on August 1, 2017February 27, 2021 Author: Lindsay MacNevin

We have all wondered where those photographers get those stunning postcard prefect pictures of Italy, but wonder no more. Italy is full of stunning views, whether you are atop an active volcano or looking out from the bell tower of a gorgeous sun bleached church. The best part about these views is that you don’t need to be a professional photographer to capture them. Try to head to these vantage points either early in the morning or at dusk to capture the perfect photo, or leave the camera at home and just enjoy the beauty. Either way, here are six beautiful views in Italy worth checking out.

6. Bell tower of San Giorgio Maggiore, Venice

It is well worth it to fork out the few euros for the elevator ride up to the 60-meter high bell tower, which offers incredible views of Venice. It is actually located right across the street from St. Mark’s Basilica, which features long line-ups and a pricey 10 euros to ride up its bell tower. Instead head to this church and monastery for uncrowded views of the entrance to the Grand Canal, the dome of Santa Maria Salute and snow-capped mountain peaks in the distance. This 16th century church is worth visiting on its own, with its brilliant white marble that gleams above the blue water lagoon.

5. Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence

What is visiting Florence if you cannot manage to get that sweeping panoramic that includes both the stunning city and the mountains. The Piazzale Michelangelo is a square that offers just that. To get here, visitors will walk uphill along a beautiful tree-lined street, or take a taxi/bus if you aren’t feeling like walking. The square is dedicated to Renaissance sculptor Michelangelo and has bronze copies of some of his marble works found elsewhere in Florence: the David and the four allegories of the Medici Chapel of San Lorenzo. The view from here is simply stunning, capturing the heart of Florence from Fort Belvedere to Santa Croce, across the lungarni and the bridges crossing the Arno and the octagonal bell tower of the Badia Florentia.

4. Amalfi Coast

It is hard to narrow down a most beautiful view when it comes to the Amalfi Coast, as there are just so many. But if you feel like strapping on your hiking boots and hitting the trails, you will find some of the best views along the Sentieri degle Dei trail. You will see down the coast all the way to the tip of the peninsula and on a clear day you can eve see Capri a stunning island home to the Blue Grotto sea cave. It’s no wonder that this trail’s name is actually ‘Pathway of the Gods’. If hiking isn’t on the agenda another great place to take in the views of the coast is Villa Rufolo, a villa located in the historic center of Ravello, originally constructed in the 13th century. The views from the villa take in the stunning coastline and the sea, and all that is will cost you is $5 euro.

3. Janiculum Hill, Rome

It is one of the only places you can capture the entire city of Rome in one spot and visitors here will capture panoramic views of the city, including the Pantheon, Spanish Steps and St. Peter’s Basilica. Janiculum Hill is located just across the river from the centro storico and choose to either hike up the hill or take one of the buses. It is the second tallest hill in the contemporary city of Rome and was believed to be the center for the cult of the god Janus, thus earning its name as Janiculum Hill. It has been home for water mills, the site of a memorable battle and a place of worship. Now it is a spot where locals walk, a park where children play and the best place to see Rome in its entirety.

2. Mt. Vesuvius, Bay of Naples

It is one of the most explored and well-known volcanoes on earth, due in large part to when it blew its top in A.D. 79 and destroyed the ancient city of Pompeii. This volcano has had no shortages of explosions, including the most recent one in 1944 but that still doesn’t keep locals and tourists from heading to the top to see the epic views. A hike around the crater’s lip will give views of Naples, its sweeping bays and Pompeii. While up there make sure you listen closely as you can heard the occasional cascade of rocks tumbling into the crater. Observe whisps of smoldering steam and take a moment to remember that this all mighty and powerful volcano will most definitely erupt again in your lifetime.

1. Corniglia-Vernazza Hiking Trail, Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre aka Five Lands are the five small coastal villages of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso located in Liguria. The best view is the main hiking trail between Vernazza and Corniglia where visitors are treated to gorgeous views of the seaside and Vernazza. While the views are spectacular, hikers should be warned that this is no easy stroll. Much of the path here is steep with sheer drops to the sea below and the journey is made by hundreds of tourists each summer. There is another option that offers almost as spectacular of views. Start from Vernazza on the number 2 trail towards Corniglia and near the beginning of the path make sure to turn around. Here is where you will get that picture postcard view of Vernazza. Try to come here in the morning, as later in the day the sun will be straight in your camera lens.

Inspiration

America’s 10 Best Towns to Visit During the Holidays

Posted on December 24, 2015October 8, 2020 Author: Lindsay MacNevin

It’s that time of year again, sleigh bells are ringing, Christmas lights are strung from rooftops and around trees, carols are playing over the radio and there is a feeling of holiday cheer in the air. Some towns in America take the holidays extra serious, with festive decorations, tree lighting ceremonies, parades, contests and more. From traditional Victorian Christmas Festivals to those that feature over 5 million lights, here are America’s best towns to visit during the holidays.

10. Woodstock, Vermont

The air smells like pine needles, the ground lightly dusted with snow and the twinkling of lights shine down on this town during the holiday season. For the past 25 years this town has hosted Wassail Weekend, a pre-Christmas festival that is rooted in 19th century Norse culture and traditions. Wassail is a hot beverage, something like cider that is associated with Christmastime. The festival brings a parade of over 50 horses and riders that are in holiday costumes and period dresses, as well as wagon and sleigh rides. Don’t forget about the feast and the tours of the most notable historic buildings as well. Add in local shops that decorate their windows and stay open late for shoppers during the festival, friendly locals and an old-world charm, and this may be the perfect town to visit this holiday season.

9. McAdenville, North Carolina

This small town just 20 minutes outside of Charlotte has actually renamed itself “Christmas Town USA” during the month of December each year. This small town draws an average of 600,000 people each year who come to gaze at the 500,000 lights that decorate this town. This town kicks off its holiday cheer with a tree lighting ceremony on December 1st where the big switch is turned on to reveal the 500,000 red, white and green lights. It takes about 375 trees to house all these lights and they light a route that is perfect for a winter stroll through the downtown. Along with these lights are homes that are lit up by owners, who all love to take part in this holiday celebration. Enjoy hot chocolate and kettle corn as you stroll through the downtown and down to the nearby lake which features 33 trees liming the perimeter and a 75 foot water fountain that is lit with vibrant colors. It’s truly Christmas here all December long.

8. Ogden, Utah

Located in Northern Utah, this great railway hub of a town welcomes in the holiday season each year with their downtown Christmas Village. From the Saturday after Thanksgiving through January 1st the downtown area is aglow with magnificent displays and holiday lights. Every year thousands of tourists come to view the Christmas lights and replica cottages that are modeled after Santa’s Village at the North Pole. To open the Christmas Village an Electric Light Parade fills the streets, loaded with elaborate floats, themes and performers. Santa also happens to arrive this day and flips the switch to turn on the lights and illuminate the village. Each of the 59 cottages have their own theme, including The Elf Workshop, The Grinch and of course, Santa’s Castle. Ride on the Polar Express Train, shop at Santa’s store and marvel at the millions of lights that light this village up.

7. Vail, Colorado

This town turns into a true Winter Wonderland when the holiday season hits. December brings the festivities of Snowdaze to the town, when fresh snow is celebrated with live concerts each night. The village is filled with sponsors and après parties and former performers include the Barenaked Ladies, Wilco and O.A.R. Vail also plays host to Holidaz, a celebration that includes the tree lighting ceremony, a New Year’s Eve torchlight parade and some incredible fireworks. Enjoy outdoor skating, hot coffee from local producers and equally warming cocktails. This incredible winter destination has more than 5,2000 acres of ski and snowboard terrain and things only get better during the holiday season. Get here and discover why this is one of America’s most loved towns, especially in December.

6. Nantucket, Massachusetts

The festivities in this town really started in the 1970’s, as too many locals left town to shop in Cape Cod, and there needed to be a solution. This island town quickly came up with an annual Christmas Stroll, in which stores stayed open late and shop owners entertained shoppers with wine, hot chocolate, cider and Christmas cookies while they browsed. Nowadays this Christmas Stroll lasts for the whole first weekend of December and visitors can take part in walking amid dozens of seven foot Christmas trees that are illuminated at night and the 20-foot tree that talks to all visitors who visit it. Carolers sing at various downtown locations, live entertainment takes place, craft shows happen and Santa and Mrs. Claus always make an appearance.

5. Ogunquit, Maine

It used to be an artist’s colony but has transformed into a summer getaway, not the first place one would think of when it comes to the Holiday season. But visiting here during the holidays means lower prices, a laid-back feeling and enough festivities to keep you going. Christmas by the Sea Festival features a town tree lighting ceremony with caroling and warm drinks, concerts, a meet and greet with Santa, beer and wine tasting, nightly bonfires, Christmas craft making workshops and more. There are plenty of local shops for those last minute gifts and plenty of friendly locals, and great deals on accommodations and dining here.

Photo by: Discover New England/Paul LaCedra

4. Naples, Florida

If you want to avoid the snowy weather but still want to enjoy that festive feeling, there is no better place than Naples to head to. This snowbird-style winter wonderland lures visitors with its festive ambiance, luxury stores, fantastic dining and warm weather. The headquarters for the official Christmas tree is Third Street South where twinkling lights and red and silver decorations adorn the streets. It is here where Santa comes to visit, snow falls out of the lampposts and shows take place throughout the month. On Fifth Avenue South is where the Christmas Parade takes place, along with awesome shopping for the Holidays event, which features live music, dancing and dining. Those who still want holiday cheer but want to avoid the snow, this is the town for you.

3. Nevada City, California

Nevada City is located about an hour northwest of Sacramento, population of just over 3,000 and it happens to take great pride in its annual Victorian Christmas Festival. Already picturesque all year round with its historic buildings and mountain surroundings, this town transforms into a beautiful picture perfect Christmas Card during the holiday season. The town brings in authentic gas lamps, twinkling white lights and carolers that dress up in Victorian apparel. The smell of roasted chestnuts and holiday food will fill the air as you wander through the streets that over-flow with Christmas treasures. Make sure to check out the famous walking Christmas tree and the living nativity scene, as well as take a ride in a horse drawn carriage. Visitors are also encouraged to dress up in period attire, complete with feathers, scarves and top hats.

Photo by: Nevada City Chamber of Commerce

2. Branson, Missouri

It is known as the Ozark Mountain Christmas here in this town, as Branson transforms into a winter wonderland complete with twinkling lights, live shows and plenty of shopping. Here in this town they don’t even wait until thanksgiving has passed to start their holiday cheer, celebrations run from the beginning of November through New Year’s Day. Branson is the live music capital of the world and visitors should plan on attending one of the famous events that incorporate traditional Christmas music. Visiting the Silver Dollar City’s an Old Time Christmas Festival is a must when you are here, where 5 million lights, two live chows, 1,000 decorated Christmas trees and the awesome light parade all take place. Many of the hotels and resorts in this town pull out all stops for the holidays and expect visits with Santa, special activities for kids and lots of yummy treats.

1. Historic Georgetown, Washington, D.C.

It is Washington D.C.’s oldest neighborhood, beautiful already with its historic buildings that line the streets, but it really comes alive during the holiday season. With over 450 stores, restaurants and galleries, the streets come alive with Yuletide decorations. The Holiday Window Competition that takes place each year means visitors are privy to the gorgeous and innovative displays that shop keepers come up with. Think roasted chestnuts, horse-drawn sleigh rides, appearances by St. Nicholas, carolers in Victorian costumes, dancers and other entertainment.

Inspiration

The 5 Most Breathtaking Castles in Italy

Posted on December 16, 2015October 8, 2020 Author: Emily Matras

Towering spires, romantic ruins, and incredible locations among seaside cliffs or verdant valleys—we’ve got to say, the castles of Italy have really got it all. The boot-shaped country boasts incredible fortifications up and down its coasts that have helped guard its residents for centuries. But we must say, some Italian castles just have a little bit more going on than others. On your next Italian getaway, consider making a pit stop at one of these particularly picturesque castles in Italy:

5. Rocca Maggiore

Looming high above the hilltop town of Assisi you’ll find the Rocca Maggiore, an impressive fortification that dates back all the way to the 1100s. The crumbling crenelations and pinkish glow of the bricks make this a handsome castle indeed—and the view from the top of the castle isn’t bad either. Tourists who make the trek up to the hilltop that Rocca Maggiore rests upon are rewarded with sweeping views of the lush Spoleto Valley below. The town of Assisi is famously known for being the birthplace of Saint Francis, so the Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi in town gets quite crowded. If you want to skip the crowds and queues, head up to the Rocca Maggiore; during the weekdays, you just might have the castle all to yourself!

4. Castle Belfort

When you think of the platonic idea of a romantic, crumbling castle, Belfort Castle near Spormaggiore is probably exactly what you imagined. Surrounded by verdant green hills, valleys, and forests, the castle lies in partial ruins today, but it was once an imposing fortress that was built to protect the districts of Andalo and Molveno. The castle’s tall tower and grey, weathered bricks will have visitors harkening back to a time of kings and knights in shining armor. Built way back in 1311 by the Count of Tyrol, Belfort Castle was actually burnt down in a fire in the 1600s before being reconstructed in 1670 by the Count of Saracini. After a long day of exploring the castle grounds, head to the nearby province of Trentino to taste the region’s unique dishes of German influence, including hearty traditional bread dumplings.

3. Aragonese Castle

Atop dramatic whitewashed cliffs that plunge into the deep blue sea thousands of feet below sits the utterly picturesque Aragonese Castle, near the Italian island of Ischia. The castle was actually built upon a large volcanic rock; today visitors can make their way to the castle via a 720-foot-long bridge that crosses over the water from Ischia. Built in 474 BC by Hiero I of Syracuse, Aragonese Castle served as a fortress that protected Ischia from the fearsome pirates that trolled the surrounding waters for centuries—although many of the churches, ramparts, and walls that dot the castle’s island were built between the 14^th and 17^th centuries. Today, the castle is Ischia’s most popular tourist attraction, with good reason. It’s hard to resist the romance of a cliff-top castle in the sea!

2. Castel dell’Ovo

Okay, we can’t talk about Castel dell’Ovo without talking about how the castle got its funny name—in Italian, “Castel dell’Ovo” translates to “Egg Castle”! Legend has it that Roman poet Virgil, who purportedly was pretty good at casting a spell, placed a magical egg in the castle’s foundations to support its fortifications. Well, the castle is still standing today, so maybe Virgil’s old egg trick had something to do with it! Today, visitors can explore the castle as it stands on the peninsula of Megaride in Naples. After exploring all the nooks, crannies, and cannons strewn about the castle grounds, head over to Borgo Marinaro, a small fishing village that first popped up beyond the castle’s walls in the 1800s, for a fresh meal of seafood at one of the village’s quaint, delicious restaurants.

1. Castello Orsini-Odescalchi

If it was good enough for not one, but two papal families, then it’s certainly good enough for a stop on your Italian tour. Yes, the Castello Orsini-Odescalchi, on the banks of Lake Braccino, served as the home base for both the Orsini and Borgia families during its illustrious 500+ years in existence. The castle serves as a pristine example of Renaissance military architecture, and the castle museum beckons visitors inside to view impressive works of medieval art, weapons, frescoes, and furniture. And Hollywood fanatics, take note: the castle has served as the backdrop to a number of high-profile weddings, including the wedding of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes. At only a 55-minute train ride from Rome, a journey to see this castle would make a great day trip away from the bustling city.

Inspiration

The 12 Most Beautiful Metro Stations In The World

Posted on August 27, 2015October 8, 2020 Author: Lindsay MacNevin

Metro stations are often thought of as being dingy, dark, and sometimes unsafe and generally not a place that you would want to hang out in. But those who think of metro stations this way must not have visited any of these unbelievably breathtaking ones. From the world’s largest art gallery to a station that has been shut off to the public for years, to a station with gold-plated walls; here are the 12 most beautiful metro stations in the world.

12. Saint Petersburg, Russia: Avtovo Station

With a name deriving from a Finnish word meaning “middle of nowhere”, Avtovo is an industrial region that is often overlooked by tourists. But the Avtovo station located underground looks more like a small museum on the outside and offers incredible beauty on the inside. The platform houses ornate glass pillars and a mosaic dedicated to the Leningrad Blockade, and more than one million people who died in the 87day siege of the city by Nazi forces during WWII. The walls are faced with white marble and the domed roof provides a feeling of being in an elegant ballroom, not a metro station. Chandeliers hang from the ceiling and provide soft lighting, a warm welcome to the usual harsh underground lighting. It is actually illegal to take a photo in a Russian subway station so remember just look with your eyes or you may be faced with a fine.

Avtovo Station Russia — Anton Kudelin / Shutterstock.com

11. Washington, D.C: Union Station

In contrast to most of America’s utilitarian subways, this gem sticks out like a sore thumb, a really pretty sore thumb. The history behind this station is interesting as Kennedy was president at the time of the planning and it’s believed that the station represented the dignity of the governments, not the cheapest possible solution. What we have now though is a beautiful crafted metro station that came from the likes of great subways around the world. The series of vaulted cathedral ceilings with coffered blocks and elegant up-lighting gives it a sense of calm and tranquility. Make sure to watch as the lights on the platform begin to throb every time a train approaches. This one of a kind station in America looks more like a church, rather than a train station. Remember, just like church there is no eating here.

10. Kaohsiung, Taiwan: Formosa Boulevard Station

This station is known as the dome of light, dubbed to be the largest glass work in the world and is overly impressive. It was designed by Italian artist Narcissus Quaglianta and took over four years to complete. The dome spans over 30 meters in diameters and features over 4,500 colored glass panels that were shipped all the way from Germany. The overall message of this piece of art is love and tolerance and has been designed to relate to the story of human life. The themes include water, earth, light and fire. This station is also home to an impressive 3-D art installation done by successful 3-D street artist Su Chia-hsien that has faded over the years but still worth a look. Try to avoid rush hour in order to gain the best pictures of this impressive metro station.

9. Moscow: Komsomolskaya Station

It looks more like a ballroom than a metro station and was actually inspired by a wartime speech of Stalin’s. It was constructed in 1952 and remains absolutely breathtaking with its marble pillars and mosaics. Artist Pavel Korin and architect Alexey Schusev were actually awarded the Stalin prize for their work here. Chandeliers are the lighting of choice and there are a total of eight ceiling mosaics throughout the sunny yellow paint job. This huge hall supported by columns has high ceilings, making it feel as though are in a museum rather than a metro station, even its banisters are intricately designed and pretty. Make sure to time your visit accordingly, on the weekdays in the summer tend to be the least crowded times, in order to fully appreciate the works of art throughout the station.

8. Bilbao, Spain: Moyua Square Station

The ambitious Bilbao metro system took two stages to actually complete, the first from 1988-1995 and the second from 1997-2004. The system itself is known as being incredibly fast, cheap, efficient and clean and it’s no wonder why love to ride it. Designers of the metro system used natural light and intuitive space to encourage commuters to walk in the right direction without needing to rely on signage, a design that not only works, but is also beautiful. The routes are meant to flow, like a trail through a cave, guiding you to the stations. The sheltered glass canopies that pay homage to the Paris Metro are light wells during the day and beacons at night, guiding the commuter home. The glass canopy that protrudes out of the Moyua Square Station is the most well-known of all.

7. Naples, Italy: University Station

It took New York designer Karim Rashid to transform this subway station into the colorful, fun station it is today. Sculptures and graphic patterns line the escalators, walls and ceilings here. The curved walls are painted in bright colors, of pink and yellow while floors are a kaleidoscope of rainbows. There is a diverse academic community that travels through this station and Rashid wanted to tap into those minds, creating a space for learning while waiting for the train. Rolling LED programming is situated behind frosted glass and displays universally recognized words and transformational digital artwork takes over the platform stairways. The seating here has even been taken into consideration and is designed to look more like a landscape than furniture. If you have ever wanted to lose yourself in a sea of colors and abstract art, head to this ultra modern avant-garde type subway station.

6. Paris, France: Arts et Metiers Station

The entrances to this station are icons of elegant public architecture but it is what lies beneath that truly amaze visitors. Walking down into this station is like walking into an old-time brass submarine. Riveted copper walls and huge gears hanging from the ceiling set the stage. Port holes along the walls are outfitted with picture boxes depicting 19^th-century navigation. Sleep silver and copper chairs are fitted seamlessly against the walls and even the garbage cans fit into the scene. The station was created by Belgian comic’s artist Francois Schuiten and was based on the fiction works of Jules Verne. Don’t miss the museum that is situated above the metro station that is full of inventions and oddities from the 18^th and 19^th centuries.

5. Saudi Arabia: Riyadh Metro

It is set to be the most beautiful metro station in the world with its gold-plated walls, huge marble walkways and space-age designs. One of the biggest names in architecture, Zaha Hadid is in charge of the design of this station. King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia is funding the station and demands that the metro be ready to use by 2019. The stations will be powered by renewable energy and the façade will be designed to let light in while keeping out the harsh desert sun, there is no need to worry about sweating here, this metro will be fully air-conditioned. The overall shape is meant to look like the country’s sand dunes and will feature raised elevators along with other beautiful finishes. Ground was broken in August 2014 and construction started on what promises to be the most beautiful station in the world.

4. New York City: City Hall Station

The city hall station is normally closed to the public but visitors can get down here by taking a tour offered by the New York Transit Museum. This station was built largely as a ceremonial terminal for local government dignitaries and only operated for forty years, from 1904-1945 due to lack of space. Arched ceilings with Guastavino tiles, ornate skylights and the grandest subway architecture that this city offers awaits visitors here. If you don’t want to take a tour but still want to see this wonderful piece of history, stay on the 6 train after its final Brooklyn Bridge stop. As the train makes its turnaround to loop back, riders can catch a glimpse of this beautiful station, lost in history. You will wonder why every other station in New York doesn’t look as good as this one.

3. Dubai, U.A.E.: Khalid Bin Waleed Station

In a city where the average high temperature in August is over 100 degrees, you may want to escape the heat and head to the spotless and air-conditioned metro station. This just isn’t a normal metro station though, it can be described more of a museum of Dubai’s history. The theme of this station is water, depicting Dubai’s history of fishing and pearl diving. Fiber optic chandeliers hang from the ceilings which result in looking more like breathtaking jellyfish, tiled floors are done in brilliant blues and gold, and the blue mood lighting above makes this station absolutely magnificent. The station is spread over three floors and like everything else in the city; it oozes luxury and cleanliness.

2. Naples, Italy: Toledo Metro Station

It seems that nothing can top the dimpled tunnel walls of the metro station here in terms of impressiveness. This city has truly transformed its underground system into a visual spectacle with its art initiative that challenged world renowned architects and designers to overhaul the subway. The Toledo Station that opened in 2012 is amongst its most impressive, featuring mosaics by artist William Kentridge and a seascape made up of LED wall panels. The wall between the ground and lower level is made up of thousands of Bisazza tiles that move from light to dark blue as passengers travel down the escalators. This station was designed around the theme of water and light and passengers will hardly believe their eyes as they wander around, taking in the unusual effects. In a city that is known for its vandalism, it is impressive that this metro station remains unscathed.

1. Stockholm, Sweden: T-Centralen Station

The Stockholm underground is actually considered the world’s largest art gallery and nearly all of the stations resemble and art gallery or museum. In fact these are so awe-inspiring, many miss their trains as they admire the art work. There are more than 140 artists who are represented across 90 of the station including both permanent and temporary exhibits. The highlight of this underground system is the T-Centralen station where all three stations meet. The blue line section was painted back in 1970 and huge lines of blue and white adorn the walls and ceilings as well as rustic arches and columns decorated with mosaics. It doesn’t matter which station you head to here, they are all ultimately beautiful and fabulous. Spend all day riding the metro and discover a whole new world of underground art.

Destinations,Inspiration

5 Pizzas You Need to Try in Europe

Posted on August 14, 2015February 27, 2021 Author: Bethaney Wallace

Throughout its lifespan, pizza has grown to be a universal substance. A meal that we all have grown to love and enjoy – topped with virtually any kind of meat, sauce, and vegetable combinations. It’s grown beyond its original fare and into something incredible: the ability to mix and match any flavor to create something unique and delicious. While still being known as pizza. When not cooking at home, however, the pros are getting into this flavor expansion, too. Adding fruits, olives, and layers and layers of native goodies to their very own recipes. In Europe especially, their homegrown goodies are something to talk about for miles around – though generally featuring “normal” pizza toppings. Even long past the vacation is over and you’re back home, eating regular pizza once again (but still dreaming about what could have been across the pond). On your next overseas vacation, be sure and test out these delicious blends and gain a taste for yourself!

5. Grilled Pizzas

It might sound unorthodox, but in European countries, this is one of the premiere ways to cook their doughy slices. It works by placing the entire thing on a grill and letting it absorb that smoky flavor. Not to mention a perfectly crisp crust once cooked. Pro chefs use grills with traditional grates, while the layman might use a slab to ensure nothing slips into the coals. Either way, it’s worth a taste test (or two) – these flavorful pieces are hard to beat!

4. The Ultra Thin Crust

You just think you’ve seen thin crusts here in the U.S. – but once you try an overseas version, you’ll be amazed at just how thin the crusts can become. All while still supporting their toppings (seriously, they defy logic). Be sure to put this on your list of “must try pizzas” for an authentic European experience that your taste buds won’t soon forget. You can even make your own concoction, or ask the pros for recommendations on what toppings taste best.

3. Neapolitan Pizza

No, it’s not just a term for ice cream, Neapolitan is also a type of traditional Italian pizza. It’s made with fresh cheeses (usually parmesan and mozzarella) and fresh basil leaves – as well as fresh tomato sauce. What makes the pizza unique, however, is that toppings come in chunks (vs. American styles with shredded cheeses), which means you might get a different, yet still delicious, flavor every time you bite. Be on the lookout for chunks of mozzarella and basil, both of which pack delicious chunks of flavor.

2. Fresh Herbs

These people are all about the flavor. And not just with spices or ingredients baked into the crust, but by infusing fresh herbs right on top of virtually every dish – with pizza being no exception. Most versions have herbs on top, while some have only herbs baked in. Crusts are topped with olive oil (made from the best quality olives to create the best flavor) and then sprinkled with all types of herbs. Fresh ones, of course, to provide even more flavor. The result is delicious and will have you gunning for fresh herbs in all of your at-home dishes.

1. Rectangle Slices

This version has often been seen in “party boxes” in the U.S. but in Europe, specifically Rome, it’s normal pizza fare. Giant versions are cooked up in large rectangle pans, then customers can choose their own size and pay by weight. Different toppings are usually placed on sections of each pan, allowing for a more personalized taste. (Think of it as choosing your piece of cake.) While it might not sound that much different than any other type of pizza eating, the experience of choosing and weighing alone is enough to remember a great vacation activity.

Adults-Only,Destinations,Inspiration

8 Romantic Places To Visit On Your Honeymoon In Italy

Posted on May 16, 2013March 2, 2021 Author: Angela Ayles

After hundreds of invitations, months of preparing, and two special words that say, “I Do,” getting away on your honeymoon should be a relaxing and enjoyable experience. One of the most enjoyable places to have your honeymoon is in Italy. It offers a bevy of options for a newly wedded couple to sit back, relax and enjoy their love for one another. This list will take a look at 8 romantic things to do on your honeymoon in Italy.

1. Venice

It goes without saying that Venice is one of the most popular cities in the world for its beauty and natural romance. This city is famous for its gondola rides on the waterways that connect the city. While visiting Venice, you can get a ride to some of the best shopping areas in Europe; but as night falls, you can enjoy the lights of the city as you make your way through the waterways without a care in the world. After months of stressful wedding planning, there is little that is more relaxing than riding through Venice on a gondola ride with the one you love.

2. Tuscany

Artists will appreciate Tuscany as they realize it is the backdrop for some of the most famous art pieces in the world. Its natural beauty makes it a place to escape the calamity of the world and simply relax. This makes for a perfect honeymoon spot for newlyweds. While the way of life is simple, the detail of Tuscany is anything but. The roads are made from cobblestone and the architecture will leave you in awe. There are also many vineyards that are perfect for newlyweds to enjoy wine tours from some of the best wineries in Europe.

3. Rome

Much like your love, Rome wasn’t built in a day. And once you visit this beautiful city, you’ll see why. Rome is famous for the Roman Coliseum, the Pantheon, the Spanish Steps and so much more. For those who have been to Rome, they can tell you there is something special about the city that makes you fall in love with Italian culture almost as much as the person you are with. There are also plenty of street vendors that make for the opportune time to pick up a bouquet of flowers to show the person you love that this is just the beginning of a beautiful life together.

4. Lake Como

Lake Como is home to many Hollywood and European stars alike. This lake offers beautiful views of quaint villas and acres of small towns that sprawl along the beautiful water. As you cut out the rest of the world for your honeymoon with your new partner for life, there are few better ways to enjoy the peace and serenity of that Italy offers, than walking along Lake Como.

5. Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is a tour that offers newlyweds an opportunity to see a variety of Italian villages at one time. Those visiting the Amalfi Coast will be amazed by how similar, how different, and how beautiful these villas all seem to be. And with a backdrop of mountains and vineyards, the Amalfi Coast is a great opportunity to hold the one you love as you go for a ride in the water.

6. Cilento

Cilento makes the list of must do things in Italy on a honeymoon due to its historical significance. The coast is not as popular as the Amalfi Coast, but is just as beautiful and undeniably it offers a natural allure that is a must see for visitors to Italy. Because it is less popular than other tourist spots in Italy, you can expect it to be more rich in untouched Italian culture. This makes for a fantastic and enjoyable opportunity to experience Italian life.

7. Piedmont

Piedmont is located in the northwestern corner of Italy. This region offers views of mountain ranges that make up the Alps. Filled with ageless palaces and castles, Piedmont is much like Cilento in that it is one of the less frequented places for tourists. Honeymooners should be sure to visit Piedmont for a chance to get away from the hustle of places like Rome or Venice, but also experience the beauty and timelessness of Italy.

8. Naples

Naples is located in Southern Italy and is one of the busiest cities in the country. While you wont get as relaxing of a vacation in Naples as say Tuscany or Lake Como, you will get to experience Italian busy life outside of Rome or Venice. Naples offers countless restaurants, shops and nightlife opportunities to get the best of your honeymoon. And with its close proximity to the ocean, you can spend your days laying out in the sun or going for a swim.

No matter where you decide to go in Italy, it is an advantageous honeymoon destination. The country allows you to visit multiple popular and secluded areas all in one trip. Furthermore, with its beauty and history, you can spend time with the person you just tied the knot with, while beginning the history you will now make together.