Just yesterday that I was thinking about what to do this summer and if I can go somewhere now that finally there are fewer restrictions in my country, these photos have emerged that I had stored in the hardisk.

so I wanted to share them with you not only to share the photos I took this summer but also to share the experience I had on this island that I think is worth visiting at least once in a lifetime.

I still remember that I took a fast hydrofoil from Naples without booking, usually there are two / three in the morning and within 20 minutes I arrived on the island, then to reach the center of Capri I took the funicular otherwise yes you can use a taxi but the cost goes up significantly.

What I recommend from my experience is to go to Capri in the spring or at the end of summer not only for a matter of heat which in any case is never so excessive but for a matter of crowding of people because in the high season the island is very busy and so it becomes really difficult to shoot it in peace.

is what I also recommend is to take a tour around the island, perhaps for the more experienced it is more convenient to rent a boat or take advantage of the many excursions that the island offers.

There is the possibility to visit the famous blue grotto where you can only enter with rowing boats and when there is high season and you can also wait several hours but the beauty is also to go around the square and here too the prices are quite enough. high precisely because Capri tends to attract a medium-high clientele so in restaurants and bars you will certainly find a menu that is not suitable for all budgets.

In the famous square you will also find many shops of famous brands in the world but nearby there is also a beautiful museum called the Caprese center Ignazio Cerius where at a cost of only 3 euros you can visit a beautiful museum where all the finds are kept archaeological sites that have been found on the island over the years.

I hope I have been able to give you as much information as possible for a future visit to the island of Capri.

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Memories of this summer: the island of Capri

Just yesterday that I was thinking about what to do this summer and if I can go somewhere now that finally there are fewer restrictions in...

Memories of this summer: the island of Capri

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Otranto is a coastal gem on the Adriatic sea in the Apulia region of Italy. It is not only an ideal destination for a day trip but also worth considering for an extended stay.

Getting there by public transport: This day trip can be done even if you do not have a car. Otranto can be easily reached by bus or train from Lecce. We prefer the bus as it is direct. We were here during the shoulder season, so the only direct option was the bus operated by FSE (the train company) which only runs on Sundays as a rail replacement service. On other days, you can take the train but you will have to transfer and it takes more time.

The bus costs EUR 2.90 per person and takes 45 minutes from Lecce. The bus stop is near the train station and you have to buy tickets in advance either at the station or online (the trenitalia app works great).

If you are visiting in high season from mid June, there are direct trains as well as more buses operated by other companies that stop closer to the center. Always verify the schedule on Cotrap or the bus company website - we were warned by the tourist information that Google Maps shows a wrong schedule of buses that only operate in high season.

This blog post is a Do-It-Yourself day trip but if you want a more relaxed day trip that's already planned for you, you can check out this highly rated organized day trip from Lecce which includes private transfer and a tour guide:

Table of Contents

• Explore the Old Town
• Cathedral of Santa Maria Annunziata
• Have a Sweet Breakfast
• Chiesa di San Pietro
• Castello Aragonese
• Lunch at ICON Restaurant
• Return to Lecce
• Or Stay Longer
• Summary

Explore the Old Town

Taking the first bus has its perks as we arrived on an empty historical centre. It was before 9am and most shops have just opened and tour groups have not yet arrived.

Admire the beautiful architecture, quaint shops selling local crafts and souvenirs, and perhaps even stumble upon hidden gems tucked away in unexpected corners.

Cathedral of Santa Maria Annunziata

Our first church stop is the incredible Otranto Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Annunziata. This stunning cathedral was built in the 11th century and is a true architectural wonder with fascinating Byzantine influences.

Inside, you'll be mesmerized by the mosaic floors with intricate designs and patterns. From admiring the mosaic floor, slowly look up. The cathedral's golden ceiling is adorned with beautiful religious motifs that will also leave you in awe. Search for the bones on the wall. And don't forget to explore the lower floor, where you'll find a crypt with frescoes on the wall.

Have a Sweet Breakfast

There are a number of cafes that line the narrow alleys of Otranto. We went to Borghi D' Otranto because of the outside seating where you can people watch or simply admire the charming street.

We had a freshly baked croissant (EUR 1.50) and a pasticciotto Leccese (EUR 2). We accompanied it with a cappuccino (EUR 2) and a creamy ginseng coffee (EUR 1.80).

Chiesa di San Pietro

Next on our itinerary is a visit to Chiesa di San Pietro, a small Byzantine church with exquisite frescoes. Step inside this charming place of worship and marvel at its artistic treasures.

They also provide some leaflets in different languages so take your time to absorb the historical significance of this hidden gem.

Castello Aragonese

As we continued our exploration, we can't miss the impressive sight of Otranto Castle - Castello Aragonese. While reviews suggest that the interior may not be worth the price, don't miss out on capturing panoramic views of the surrounding area from outside.

Take a moment to appreciate its beauty and imagine its historical significance as a defensive fortress guarding against invasions from centuries past.

Lunch at ICON Restaurant

For an exceptional lunch experience in Otranto, head over to ICON Restaurant. Their tantalizing lunch tasting menu is good value at EUR 28 or opt for the wine pairing option for EUR 38.

Their tasting menu is from the region, seasonal and creative. It was May and we had Polpette di Pulpo (octopus balls), Frisella di Mare (frisa bites with fish), Parmigiana Salentino, and Pasticciotto with creme brulee, apples and strawberry.

A degustation takes time so make sure you're not in a rush. Our lunch was almost 2 hours. Alternatively, their a la carte options looked interesting as well.

Return to Lecce

Our visit was cut short due to the heavy rain. We would have stayed for an aperitivo or maybe hang out at the beach if the weather was better. We decided to head back to the bus station and catch the 3 pm bus back to Lecce.

Or Stay Longer

We were based in Lecce but I can also imagine staying here for more than a day so as to enjoy the sunrise, sunset and avoid the day tripper crowd. This will also give you more time to explore and swim at the beaches nearby.

San Pietro Otranto is one of the good options I have checked that is right in the heart of the old town and rooms that offer a romantic view.

Summary

1. Start your day early: Catch the first bus from Lecce ensures you have ample time to explore all that Otranto has to offer.
2. Immerse yourself in history: Don't miss out the Otranto Cathedral and the castle
3. Take leisurely walks: Explore the charming streets and narrow alleys of Otranto, walk along the beautiful coast, allow yourself time to appreciate its unique ambiance.
4. Indulge in local flavors: Treat yourself to the delicious pastries and traditional dishes that Otranto has to offer.

So, whether you're planning a day trip or considering an extended stay, Otranto promises to captivate you with its coastal allure and rich history. Let this charming town be a part of your own travel story.

Safe travels and may Otranto's magic continue to inspire you on your journeys!

https://www.youtube.com/watch/sY1t8hVwBz8

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Otranto, Italy: Things to Do on a Day Trip in the Coastal Town of Apulia

Otranto is a coastal gem on the Adriatic sea in the Apulia region of Italy. It is not only an ideal destination for a day trip but also wort...

Otranto, Italy: Things to Do on a Day Trip in the Coastal Town of Apulia

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Hello to all my friends,

Some time ago, I used this blog, which I've now seen has returned, so I wanted to try this site to write something and share some photos as a memory of my old vacations spent in Puglia. I think I've talked about these vacations before; I'm not sure if I'll return this year because I have several issues with my mother who isn't doing well. But if I do return, I'll definitely share more photos with you.

One place that I absolutely loved was Castro Marina, which is essentially a district of Castro and is located along the famous Salento peninsula in Puglia. It's a place that at times reminded me a bit of Spain but also a bit of Morocco where I had been several years ago.

Most likely, a few years ago it was a lesser-known destination, but lately Puglia has become a very important spot not only for Italian tourism but even for international tourism. I have a friend who owns a local business there and he told me that recently there are many Americans and Arabs choosing this region of Italy.

Anyway, coming back to our topic, this place in Puglia is beautiful because it has a series of beaches with rugged rocks and you can also see many natural caves. As you can see, there is also a castle or rather what remains of the castle, which could also be something to visit. Personally, I haven't visited the castle because I'm not particularly drawn to culture and art; I prefer to enjoy the beach and nearby natural visits.

The downside, in my opinion, is the fact that on the beach you don't find the classic sand which is much more comfortable, especially if you want to lie down, but rather all rugged rocks. So, you need to be well-equipped.

Anyway, I definitely recommend this place. Unfortunately, in my opinion, it won't be a budget-friendly destination like it used to be, because with the increase in popularity among tourists, prices have risen quite a bit. However, my friend mentioned that there is a wide range of accommodation options, so you can still find good deals.

I hope you found this post interesting. It was great to write here again, and I must say that this site, which allows you to publish, is very well-organized and offers many useful tools to write a great post.

Goodbye everyone, see you soon!

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Discovering Apulia: from hidden gem to super tourist place

Hello to all my friends, Some time ago, I used this blog, which I've now seen has returned, so I wanted to try this site to write so...

Discovering Apulia: from hidden gem to super tourist place

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My first day in Verona started early because I was very excited to see where I ended up last night arriving late from the train station by taxi in this camping with an interesting name "Castel San Pietro" located somewhere on the higher grounds of Verona. I must say I was pleasantly surprised.

My italian home in Verona

I was curious to see the city of love waking up, bathed in the morning light and by good chance I was exactly in the best place for doing this from one of the camping terraces.

Buongiorno Verona!

As the name suggests "Camping Castel San Pietro is located in the area of the historic centre of Verona. This natural oasis, enclosed within the ancient city walls of Verona, is a large botanical garden that descends towards the city centre, reachable in 10 minutes on foot or with the cable car that connects the square of Castel San Pietro to the Ponte Pietra- Bridge."

The camping facilities are decent, nothing fancy but correct for the 22 EUR price/adult/pitch/day in 2022 considering the location and season.

Clean facilitiesLovely terrace to enjoy an Italian espressoMy breakfast for about 6 EUR

You can have breakfast on this lovely terrace with enough options to choose from their little grocery store located inside.

Cannot have asked for more And may be a second coffee with a view on the upper terrace? Why not!Love this camping already

Before checking out with my loaded bike which I'll go to pick up later, I decided to go for a light short walk in the historic centre of Verona since it was so close to the camping and still early.

Found the bike rental agency to which I'll return later to pick up my bikePonte Pietra, the entrance to the old townAdige waters a bit muddy this morning from the last night rainEverything is so quiet in the morningOh, that feeling of walking these streets for the first time...Scaliger tombs, gothic funerary monument from the 14th centuryFound Romeo's house at no. 4Piazza Independenza After Romeo, a visit to Juliet at no. 21 on Via Cappello was a mustAnd the famous Juliet's balcony

Actually Casa di Giulietta which is one of Verona's main turistic attractions was a former inn belonging to Cappello family which dates back to the 14th century. The Capulet family’s houses was not actually located here, but rather in the vicinity of the bank of the River Adige.

The famous balcony was later added in the 20th century after being retrieved from other medieval house which was demolished when the municipality had to build a dam to prevent the river from flooding the city. The director of the Verona Civic Museum at the time - Antonio Avena – placed it in the courtyard of the Cappello family’s tower-house, which had just been purchased by the city of Verona to be turned into a museum: thus Juliet’s balcony was born.

It is unknown if Shakespeare ever visited Verona or Italy, but his plays have lured many visitors to Verona and surrounding cities.

Juliette never actually existed but her statue is made from real bronzeIn the morning it's not so crowded, later it will be

Verona, the city of love is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since November 2000 because of its urban structure and architecture. Indeed Verona is a joy to discover on foot with so many well preserved buildings to see and its rich history to learn about.

Statue of Berto Barbarani in Piazza delle Erbe

Berto Barbarani, the poet of Verona born in 1872 was one of the most significant italian poets of the 20th century.

Piazza delle ErbeWalking on the old streets of Verona is like time travelView over Castel San Pietro

After a short two hours first walk in the old town of Verona, I think it's now time to pick up my rented bike from Itinera Bike & Travel and start this year's adventure on EuroVelo 7.

20 EUR/day for this nice red touring bike, helmet includedYou can rent an e-bike if this is what you prefer these daysLoaded and ready to go!

Now let's go discover the north of Italy together on EuroVelo 7, shall we?

Verona's tallest Medieval tower built in 1172 offering panoramic views

Since it was already in the afternoon by the time I packed everything and left the camping, I thought it's a good idea to grab something to eat on my way out of the city which luckily was through the centre where all the shops and restaurants are.

Can't leave Verona without having a gelato Arena di Verona, a roman amphitheater hosting operasCastelvecchio MuseumFinally on the open road again

From Verona I cycled mostly on secondary roads to Peschiera del Garda where I joined the EuroVelo 7 route.

Feeling like a "italiano" cycling along this beautiful countryside road

Cycling for the first time in Italy along this beautiful countryside road, a song by Toto Cutugno suddenly came to my mind which I used to listen a lot as a kid in my parents car while driving to my grandma for the holidays on the other side of my country. The good old days of the audio tape, limited songs and autoreverse.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S · L'Italiano Lasciate Mi Cantare - Toto Cutugno

Saluti a tutti!

Took this short cool off opportunity to look for a place to rest for tonight and luckily I found couple of campings outside of Peschiera on the shore of lake Garda, which is a very popular holiday destination.

Arrived on the left side of the Mincio riverCrossed the dam to the right side of Mincio to join the main routeBack on EuroVelo 7 again after one year and heading north to PeschieraThe fortress at Peschiera built between the 15th and 17th centuries

The town is encircled by massive Venetian defensive systems that have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 9 July 2017.

Didn't have much time to explore the fortress because it was already late when I arrived and my priority was to arrive at a camping site I found on Maps, but still very lucky to witness an amazing sunset on my way there.

Sunset over lake Garda

There are many campings north of Peschiera and luckily I found a spot for my tent in one of them just before it was getting dark outside.  A shower and 30 minutes later I invited myself for dinner on this nice restaurant terrace near the lake. The menu choice was simple: pizza and beer for the cyclist!

I think I could probably cross Italy only running on this fuel :) Day 1 map: Verona to Peschiera del Garda 45 km

Full sunny days like this is what I love about bike touring, what's driving me to find a way to come back on EuroVelo each year, the unique blend of local natural and cultural elements and flavours plus a drop of adventure on top is what I love about cycling on EuroVelo and also my recommendation for you.

Until next time,

©Discover EuroVelo

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All photos were taken with my iPhone 11 and Sony DSC-HX60V camera.

EuroVelo, the European Cycle Route Network are registered marks of ECF asbl.

I have no affiliation with EuroVelo or other organisations mentioned here, I am just a traveller sharing his bike touring trips, views and opinions.

EuroVelo is a network of 17 long distance cycle routes connecting and uniting the whole European continent totaling over 90,000 km of cycling itineraries.

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EuroVelo 7 - Verona to Peschiera del Garda 45 km

My first day in Verona started early because I was very excited to see where I ended up last night arriving late from the train station by ...

EuroVelo 7 - Verona to Peschiera del Garda 45 km

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