09 March 2022 - Gearing up for a potential opening to Brits from 17th May, things are looking fairly sunny for Italy. Whilst it’s still uncertain as to when travel will be definitely back on the cards, according to a recent survey by Skyscanner, it’s not stopping British holidaymakers from making enquiries about travel to Italy this summer. Anecdotal evidence from key tour operators including Kuoni and Just Sardinia shows that Italy is high on the agenda for when we can travel once again.
With restrictions beginning to ease around the country, those looking for a rural escape can put Sardinia on the map following the recent news that it’s become one of the only regions in Europe in the ‘white zone’. With minimal restrictions now in place, the region has seen the reopening of gyms, swimming pools, cinemas and theatres as well as extended curfews for bars and restaurants.
Italy is the full package with something for every type of traveller. From the Aeolian islands dotted off the coast of Sicily, to the jet-setters on the foodie island of Sardinia and not forgetting its beautiful art cities: Venice, Rome Milan, Turin and Florence. Oozing with galleries, museums and churches and of course, the re-opening of Mausoleum of Augustus, the monumental tomb of Rome's first emperor which has been closed for over 14 years, Italy is a must visit destination this summer.
2021 Highlights include:
PARMA - Visit Italy’s capital of culture
In 2020, Parma was named Italy’s capital of culture by the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities, and will retain the prestigious title for another year following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. After restarting its calendar of cultural activities and events in summer 2020, the city is set for a rich programme this summer. Officially named Parma, UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, the city is known for its outstanding contribution to Italian food and is one the destinations offering the highest number of traditional Italian products. The city also boasts a fantastic array of museums, exhibitions and culture. This combined with Parma 2020+21 firmly taking centre stage as one of the key cultural events of the year, makes Parma a destination not to be missed. https://parma2020.it/en/
ROME – Take in the sites of Mausoleum of Augustus, now open after 14-year closure
Steeped in history, Rome’s Mausoleum of Augustus monument reopened to the public last week on 1st March following a major restoration. Described as an historic day for Rome, the site was constructed in 28BC and is the capital’s largest circular tomb which has been closed to the public for much of the last 80 years, with access stopped completely in 2007. The monumental tomb of Rome's first emperor is destined to become a major draw for tourists, following decades of abandonment. Tourists can book a 50-minute tour from 21st April priced at just four euros. https://www.mausoleodiaugusto.it/en/booking/
SARDINIA – Explore the low-risk island and take advantage of the late-night bars and restaurants
With Sardinia now in the ‘white’ zone and minimal restrictions across the island, the sunny coasts of Sardinia are a must for every type of traveller. Guests can go beyond the beaches and discover Sardinia’s mysterious ancient structures, hiking trails and colourful mountain towns from Neptune’s Grotto to Cala Brandinchi. Not forgetting its exquisite food and lively atmosphere, guests can now take advantage of the eased restrictions and visit the island’s cafes, bars and restaurants during the summer evenings following the recently extended curfew, 23.00 for restaurants and 21.00 for bars.
For more info: https://www.sardegnaturismo.it/en
Experience Sardinia with Just Sardinia – the Island Specialist
