Lifestyle in Italy

When people talk about Italy’s most beautiful mountain towns, they’re usually picturing snow-capped peaks, stone houses and those emerald-green valleys.

The Italian Capital of Culture 2028 has not yet been announced, but the path towards the final decision is well underway. Ten shortlisted cities will compete for the title by presenting their cultural projects to the ministerial committee.

Italy isn’t just frescoed ceilings and sunbaked piazzas — slip beyond the olde worlde city walls and an entirely different world opens up. Snow-dusted peaks, emerald-green forests and cliffside paths unfurl across a country that feels, at times, wonderfully untamed.

When people search for the best places to visit in southern Italy, they’re usually picturing cliffside villages and turquoise water.

Italy will always be one of Europe’s great city‑break destinations — but the way people explore it is changing.In 2026, travellers are increasingly looking beyond the obvious icons, choosing smaller cities and coastal towns that feel atmospheric, walkable, and deeply Italian, even on a short stay.Fr

When people search for Italy's most beautiful towns, they’re often talking about I Borghi più belli d’Italia — an official association that recognises small historic villages across the country. This isn’t a glossy travel ranking or a social media trend.

For many Britons, retiring to Italy from the UK after Brexit is an appealing idea, offering culture, cuisine, strong communities and a climate well suited to later life.

Valentine’s Day is celebrated worldwide on 14th February, and Italy is no exception. Known locally as San Valentino, this holiday is also called la festa degli innamorati — the day of lovers.

Some of Italy’s most romantic places don’t announce themselves loudly, even around Valentine’s Day, when attention gravitates towards the obvious names.

Are you considering retiring in Italy? Sicily is one of the most attractive destinations for UK pensioners in 2026. With its stunning landscapes, mild climate, rich culture, and lower cost of living, the island offers a high quality of life.

What makes Italy stand out around Valentine's Day is the variety of ways that romance plays out in the country. Cities feel cinematic and lived‑in, coastal areas lean into simplicity and movement, and places shaped by time rather than tourism tend to leave the deepest impression.

Italy is famous for its rich culture, delicious food, and relaxed way of life. It’s no surprise that more and more EU citizens are considering retiring there.

Italy works well for romantic getaways for couples because it lends itself to slowing down.

Venice’s legendary Ca’ Dario, the palace said to bring misfortune to its owners, is back on the market after a major restoration. Overlooking the Grand Canal in Dorsoduro, this 15th-century gem is steeped in history — and mystery.

The Aeolian Islands sit off the northern coast of Sicily, scattered across the Tyrrhenian Sea like a chain of volcanic stepping stones.

Some runs are every skier’s dream – and the Gran Pista of Valtournenche, also known as Reine Blanche, is one of them. Nestled in the Cervino Ski Paradise area, it finishes at Plan de la Glaea and holds the title of Italy’s longest piste.

Venice during Carnival is a bit like walking onto a film set: masks everywhere, music echoing off the canals, and something happening in every square.

Living in Tuscany still tops a lot of wish lists. When people start looking at the best places to live in Tuscany, they tend to focus on practicality rather than postcard looks alone.

Carnival in Italy is one of those festivals that completely takes over everyday life.

The 2026 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony promises a spectacular night at Milan’s San Siro Stadium, featuring international stars, unforgettable performances, and the historic lighting of the Olympic cauldron.When and where: San Siro hosts the Opening CeremonyStar-studded guests and ceremony highlig

If there’s one tradition that never gets old, it’s Carnival in Italy.

Venice Carnival is one of those trips you remember for years: misty canals, masked figures gliding through Piazza San Marco, and the odd glittery cape brushing past you.

Thinking about spending your retirement in Italy? You’re not the only one. Interest from UK, US and German retirees has climbed steadily in recent years, as more people look for a mix of sunshine, slower living and good healthcare.

Italy isn’t just for long weekends in Rome or selfies in Venice anymore. According to International Living, Italy ranks firmly in the top ten places to retire.