Italy
@RoamingGraciously
ITALY is home. The food, wine, art, culture and history are all good reasons to make it home. The North is super different to the South and the Middle and the Alps are different again, but the sea is where it's at for most.
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Bra Cheese Festival
This is "THE" festival of all cheese festivals- even the French lock to Italy for this one! Every two years, in mid-September, the quaint little town of Bra, in Northern Italy, transforms from its usual tranquillity into the epicentre of cheese. the town swells from around 30.000 to at least three times that number, filling the alleys and square with people, stalls, cheese education and the irresistible aroma of cheese. Bra is not just known for this festival but is also the birthplace of the Slow Food Movement (this festival was started in conjunction with the Slow Food Movement ) First held in 1997, this biannual event shines a light on raw cheese, natural cheese, traditional artisan cheese making from around the world. The festival is a melting pot of producers, affineurs and enthusiasts. This is a must-visit for anyone passionate about food traditions. You will discover why this festival is "THE" pilgrimage pinnacle for any cheese lover.
Bra
@RoamingGraciously
Bra, my beloved home for over a year, is the place that lured me to Italy in the first place. Nestled in the heart of Piedmont, this charming town is a whirlwind of gastronomic delight, where the Slow Food movement took its first breath and where the University of Gastronomic Sciences turns out a new wave of culinary enthusiasts every year. With a population of about 30,000, Bra’s streets are alive with the energy of students and locals who share a passion for savouring life—think raw pig sausage (yes, you heard that right!) alongside the region's prized offerings like Alba's white truffles and the legendary Barolo wine from Langa.Living here is like stepping into a food lover’s paradise. Bra is the ultimate playground for anyone who appreciates good food and good company.
The locals know how to enjoy life, with every meal an opportunity to celebrate the rich flavours of the region. From sipping vermouth from Turin to indulging in the culinary treasures that pop up at every corner, this town has a way of wrapping you in its embrace. Bra isn’t just a place; it’s an experience—a deliciously chaotic, mouthwatering love affair that keeps me hungry for more.
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Naples Bufala Fest
Welcome to the heart of Pizza Land Naples! Get ready for the ultimate celebration of all things stretched-curd (pasta-filata) Bufala Fest is held in Piazza Municipio in early September (making it the perfect warm-up for Bra Cheese the week after) You can get Mozzarella just about any way possible from DOP from Consorsizo di Tuteta, mouth-watering buffalo burgers (yes that's right Italian Mozzarella is more often than not made from Buffalo milk) and o course the finest crafted pizzas in your life!.. The celebration of the buffalo continues with ice cream and yoghurts made from the milk. The festival's commitment to food diversity and sustainable framing, economic inclusion and future trends in the Buffalo world.
Naples
@RoamingGraciously
Ah, Naples—where chaos waltzes with charm. My first visit back in 2005 felt like diving headfirst into a whirlwind of vibrant energy and unapologetic authenticity. Sure, the city was in a bit of a state of emergency, with rubbish piling up and a touch of political corruption swirling around, but underneath that raw surface was a spirit that hooked me from the start. The late '80s marked the beginning of a massive transformation, and the grit and determination of the locals, alongside political backing, has turned Naples into the captivating city I love today. The realness of it all—from the bold architecture to the exuberant street life—has always drawn me in.
Naples completely stole my heart, and I can’t help but keep coming back for more. I devoured books like See Naples and Die and Elena Ferrante's My Brilliant Friend, which only fueled my infatuation. Each time I return, it’s like reuniting with an old friend who’s evolved but hasn’t lost their edge. Sure, Naples has spruced up a bit, but at its core, it’s still a dazzling blend of history, culture, and legendary food that keeps me coming back for seconds. This city is a passionate love affair that never fades, and I’m always craving another taste of its raw, addictive beauty.
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Quisquinesi Cheese Festival
In short not only is this the best time of year to visit Sicily but it is also a great opportunity to experience a bit of Sicily that a lot of people do not venture into its middle and this festival celebrates local cuisine for the region "Sicani" in a little town not visited by many tourists called "Custonaci "its in central and southern part (Sicily has three regions) its held over a long weekend in mid-May and highlights the heritage and traditional foods of the region cheese is the crescendo with a semi matured or soft pecorino cheese locally called "tuma" traditionally made with sheep's milk but you can also find cows milk pecorino at this festival as well as so many other wonderful foods and drinks typical of the region. You will not regret it!
Sicily
@RoamingGraciously
Sicily is a fiery love affair that ignites the senses, where the rugged coastline meets the roaring Mediterranean. It's a place where the heat is palpable, from the sun-baked cliffs to the sizzling street food that tempts you at every turn. The vibrant chaos of the markets, bursting with fresh seafood and fragrant herbs, draws you in like a moth to a flame. Each bite of grilled sardines or a zesty lemon granita is a taste of raw passion, reminding you that life is meant to be savoured.
But it’s not just the food that captivates; it’s the soul of the island. Sicily’s rich tapestry of cultures weaves together stories of resilience, mystery, and undeniable charm. As you wander through ancient towns, the energy is infectious—each alley, each stone feels alive with history. Under the watchful gaze of Mount Etna, the land pulsates with life and love, leaving you craving more of its wild beauty. In Sicily, every sunset is a promise, every meal a celebration, and every moment a reminder that this island is a beautifully chaotic dance that keeps you coming back for more.
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Gorgonzola Festival
Get ready for a cheese extravaganza in Cavallermaggiore (in the North near Bra and Turin) at the Goranzola Festival, happening over three delicious days in late April each year. The celebration showcases the beloved Italian blue cheese AND even if you're not into blue cheese you might enjoy the "sweet" version of Gorgonzola Dolce it's even turned into ice cream! Gorgonzola Piccante packs a much bigger punch in a good way with true flavour. Both beauties hold DOP status and are made from skimmed cow milk. This festival started in the early 2000s and gets bigger and bigger each year (the festival motto is Eat, Dance, Love) and for sure the festival has a vibe and also combined to celebrate the patron saint of the town. Blue lovers must go festival.
Cavallermaggiore
@RoamingGraciously
Nestled in the province of Cuneo, Piedmont, Cavallermaggiore is a charming town that sits close to the French border and the stunning Alpine region. Known for its picturesque streets and vibrant community, this town is not just a feast for the eyes but also a cornerstone in the world of Gorgonzola cheese. With over 200,000 forms produced annually, it proudly holds the DOP designation, cementing its status as one of the symbolic towns for this iconic blue cheese. Cavallermaggiore blends rich culinary heritage with a laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal stop for anyone looking to indulge in authentic Italian flavours and experience the warmth of local culture.
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Pecorino di Filiano DOP and Dairy Products Festival
if you're not a fan of sheep's milk, this might not be the Sarga for you! The word pecorino is derived from"percora", which means "sheep" in Italian indicating that this beloved cheese is made from sheep's milk. The town of Filiano celebrates a three days festival in early September each year (49th this year) in honour of the "Pecorino di Filiano DOP" This is super important to the region of Basilicata, with more than 30 smaller municipalities coming together with their cheese from more than 160,000 sheep. This event is a recognition of the intangible cultural heritage of Basilicata. Not to go would be crazy.
Filiano
@RoamingGraciously
Nestled in the heart of Basilicata, Filiano is a delightful town with around 3,000 residents, sitting pretty at 547 meters in the captivating Lucanian Apennines. Its cobbled streets and warm, welcoming community offer a slice of genuine Italian life that feels like stepping back in time. This charming spot is perfect for anyone craving an authentic escape, far removed from the bustling tourist trails.
Often flying under the radar, the Basilicata region is a hidden gem in southern Italy, bursting with breathtaking landscapes, rolling hills, and rich agricultural traditions. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike, inviting you to explore its stunning scenery and quaint villages. With a laid-back vibe and deep cultural roots, Basilicata serves up the ideal backdrop for an unforgettable Italian experience, making it a must-visit for those seeking something a little different.
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Taleggio Festival
If you are not turned on by smelly cheese, you might want to sit this one out as well. Taleggio, the sticky, creamy delightful washed rind, is an Italian cheese that's more than just a snack- it's a culinary experience and different each time. With DOP status, Taleggio hails from the valley of the same name in Lombardy, crafted from raw milk (nowadays more often with pasteurized cow milk(( The cheese has a funky side that grows more seductive with age. The Taleggio Fair in Ballabio is in its 13th edition and in mid-May each year the town and the area of Valsassina (Ballabio has been home to several cheese makers and the caves are incredible) The maturing rooms are where Taleggio gets its distinctive grey and slightly sage green moulds - perfect really!
Ballabio
@RoamingGraciously
The Lombardy region is a culinary haven in northern Italy, brimming with gastronomic delights and rich traditions. Home to world-renowned dishes like risotto alla Milanese and creamy Gorgonzola, this region is a feast for the senses.
Ballabio is tucked away in the breathtaking Valsassina valley, Ballabio is a quaint town that exudes charm and authenticity. Surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Lombard Alps, this hidden gem is celebrated for its rich cheese-making heritage, especially the iconic Taleggio. With its picturesque streets and friendly locals, Ballabio invites you to wander and savour the simple pleasures of life. Whether you’re sampling local cheeses at the vibrant fair or exploring the stunning natural beauty, Ballabio is a delightful escape that captures the heart of northern Italy.
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Ricotta Festival
Vizzini, nestled in the lush landscape of Sicily, is renowned for its rich dairy heritage, with ricotta standing out as a local staple. This festival of flavour and knowledge in the lands of Verga (formally the Ricotta Festival) is held annually in late April transforming Vizzini's main square into a vibrant open-air market bursting with cheese producers, wine performances and more. But let's be real - it's all about the beloves Ricotta-based sweets such as Cannoli, Cassatelle, Ricotta Pie and Calzone. You can get your hands on just about anything ricotta here. Sicily truly knows how to throw a food party!
Vizzini
@RoamingGraciously
Vizzini, a charming town in the province of Catania, Sicily, is renowned for its lush pastures and rich dairy tradition. Steeped in history and nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, Vizzini is a testament to Sicily's agricultural wealth. The region, with its fertile lands and deep-rooted dairy practices, offers a slice of authentic Sicilian life. Whether you're exploring the historic town or indulging in local cheeses, Vizzini provides a genuine taste of Sicily’s culinary and cultural heritage.
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Bologna Cheese Festival
This could well be the epi-centre of italian products that are recognised around the world and hold DOP status and GPI respectively. Bologna is the capital city of the Emilia-Romagna region and is home to the likes of Modena's world-famous and UNESCO-recognized Traditional Balsamic Vinegar and just done the road Parma and you guessed it home to the Parma Ham (Prosciutto) and we are not even talking about wine.. This is a festival that is held. Bologna Cheese Festival, which will take place in the former Gallery of Modern Art, at the Volvo Congress Center of Bologna Congressi, is an absolute novelty that will involve the public and many personalities and experts in the sector. (to be honest, this region has so many cheese festivals its ridiculous these are just a few worth checking out) dates might change.
Bologna
@RoamingGraciously
Bologna, the proud home of Europe’s oldest university, is a vibrant tapestry woven with intellect, history, and, of course, mouthwatering cuisine. This city bursts with richness in every sense, from its stunning medieval architecture to the lively discussions echoing through its streets. And let’s not forget about the food—Bologna is the epicentre of culinary indulgence, where every meal is a glorious celebration of full-fat, heart-attack-worthy delights. With Parmesan Reggiano and its little sister, Grana, both hailing from nearby, you’re in for a treat. Just a short jaunt down the road brings you to Modena, where traditional balsamic vinegar reigns supreme.
But that’s not all; Bologna is a charcuterie lover’s dream. Mortadella, Parma ham, and an array of cured meats abound, showcasing the wealth of flavors that this region offers. The city isn’t just about food, either—it's also the birthplace of legendary cars like Lamborghini and Ferrari, making it a perfect blend of culture and speed. And for those looking to quench their thirst, you can’t go wrong with a glass of Lambrusco. I promise, once you taste it in Bologna, you’ll be hooked! This city strikes the perfect balance, making it an ideal size for wandering and indulging in all its offerings.
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While Italy is synonymous with the delightful tradition of Aperitivo, its cocktail scene is a whole other world waiting to be explored. As a seasoned traveller who appreciates a perfectly crafted drink (and the friendly chat with the bartender that often comes with it), I've had the pleasure of discovering countless incredible cocktail bars across the country. Whether it's a new city I'm visiting or a familiar favourite I'm revisiting, Italy never disappoints.
Lucky for me, Northern Italy is my home base, and it boasts a high concentration of exceptional options. However, the South holds its own when it comes to fantastic cocktail experiences (with Rome leading the charge) This guide represents my curated list of the best-of-the-best, a culmination of expert experiences and the occasional repeat visit for quality assurance (yes, sometimes a second or third try is necessary!).
Italy, after all, is the birthplace of iconic cocktail ingredients like Vermouth, Campari, and Aperol. But its treasure trove extends far beyond, with gems like St. Germain, Amaro, Grappa, Amaretto, Limoncello, and the hospitality worker's secret weapon - Fernet.
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