Travel tips

Planning a trip to Palermo and wondering where to stay? You're not alone. Sicily's vibrant capital welcomes over 900,000 visitors annually, yet many arrive without clarity on which neighbourhoods suit their travel style, what accommodation offers genuine value, or how to avoid the tourist traps that plague Italy's popular destinations.

The breeze is warm as it gently caresses your face. You look out across the shimmering sea and feel an overwhelming sense of calm - there's nothing quite like the Italian coast. Here, we explore some of the many coastal gems that Italy has to offer.

Corsica, France's "Île de Beauté" (Island of Beauty), rises dramatically from the Mediterranean like a mountain range thrust from the sea. This rugged paradise, lying north of Sardinia and south of the French Riviera, offers an intoxicating blend of pristine beaches, soaring peaks, medieval citadels and a fiercely independent culture that sets it apart from mainland France.

Delve into the art of slow travel. Explore the Med through our insider slow travel tips for a truly immersive and sustainable holiday experience.

Ortigia represents the very essence of Sicily concentrated onto a small limestone island barely one kilometre long. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, connected to Syracuse by just two bridges, contains layer upon layer of Mediterranean civilisation: Greek temples that became Christian cathedrals, Arab influences woven into Norman architecture, and Baroque palaces rising from ancient foundations. Yet despite its remarkable heritage, Ortigia remains refreshingly unspoilt, where local fishermen still mend their nets beside ancient fortifications and washing lines stretch across medieval alleyways.

One week in the heart of the Mediterranean is never enough, especially if you’re travelling from afar. Two weeks are great; three or more is bliss. Most long-haul travellers to Europe want to see at least a couple of different places on their trip, and we’re perfectly placed to offer just that. Thanks to our range of gorgeous villas spread across Italy, Greece and Corsica, we can help with longer-stay holidays in two or more of our alluring destinations.

Sicily, the Mediterranean's largest island, captivates visitors with its extraordinary blend of ancient history, dramatic landscapes, and distinctive culture. From the smoking summit of Mount Etna to sun-drenched beaches and UNESCO World Heritage sites, this Italian island offers experiences that rival anywhere in Europe.

Nestled amongst rolling Tuscan hills, Siena stands as one of Italy's most enchanting medieval cities. With its terracotta rooftops, magnificent Gothic architecture, and UNESCO World Heritage status, this captivating destination offers visitors an authentic taste of Italian culture without the overwhelming crowds of Florence.

Learn to love Western Sicily like our Local Specialist Barbara does. Our latest blog post unveils all of Barbara's top suggestions for beaches, cultural attractions and, of course, lovely luxury villas with all the best amenities.

Explore sustainable travel with Cat Jones, Founder and CEO of Byway, as she discusses B Corp values, memorable flight-free holidays, and the future of sustainable travel adventures.

Discover our recommended Greek archaeological sites to visit on your next villa holiday in Greece. Read on to learn about the historic site of Dodni and more.

Summer in Europe conjures images of sun-drenched coastlines, azure Mediterranean waters, and evenings spent dining al fresco as the sun sets over ancient landscapes. Whilst popular hotspots like Santorini and the Amalfi Coast continue to draw crowds, discerning travellers seeking authentic experiences are discovering Europe's most enchanting summer destinations—places where luxury, culture, and natural beauty converge without the overwhelming tourist masses.