Italy: the country that brought us much of the world’s finest art and culture, brimming with its tales and traditions awaits to be discovered with our exciting journeys into its past and present.

Experience the spirit of the people and the cherished traditions of the Italian South from Sicily’s religious ceremonies and Naples’ lively Pulcinelle to the otherworldly medieval mountain villages of Calabria such as Morano at an altitude of 700m. Discover gothic monasteries that have remained untouched for centuries and get carried away by captivating legends told by local storytellers. Visit the stone villages of Abruzzo, including the magical Scanno which fascinated the great photographer Henri Cartier Bresson. Explore the Basilicata region, Castelmezzano and the cave houses of the humble Matera, which also served as the 2019 European Capital of Culture.

Start your journey with a visit to Alberobello known for its unique conical-roofed houses, then head to Puglia, the homeland of the Pizzica tarantella dance, and complete your journey with some live jazz at the festivals in Sicily and Sardinia. Travel back in time with a visit to a Venetian velvet atelier where silk costumes come to life or unravel the mystery of Casanova in the alleys of Venice behind the Palazzo Ducale. Learn the secrets of the world’s finest violins in Cremona and enjoy a classical music concert or a mesmerizing opera in Verona, South Tyrol or Umbria.

Enjoy Italy’s famous Comedia Dell ’Arte, discover the story behind its sacred drama (sacra rappresentazione) and delve into the country’s classic and contemporary works in luxurious venues and hidden theaters. Experience the Florence of Da Vinci, Tiziano, Michelangelo, and Giotto or get a taste of radical and contemporary art at cultural hubs countrywide. Step into the small museums hidden in the shadow of Italian landmarks such as the home of surrealist painter Giorgio de Chirico opposite the Piazza Di Spagna.

Decipher the secret messages in Caravaggio’s paintings which reveal themselves with our expert direction as you stroll through centuries of history in Rome, the Eternal City. Prepare to be captivated by Italy’s very own ‘silver screen’ with a visit to Cinecitta Studios and don’t forget to visit Fellini’s hangout at Piazza Canova in Milan. When you have indulged in all this, head on over to the ‘other side of the bank’ to the colorful Trastevere district that has charmed artists including Woody Allen.

A trip to Italy would not be complete without a visit to metropolitan Milan, one of the world’s leading cities of design, fashion, haute couture and craft jewelry. Light a candle in the Duomo di Milano, admire Da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper’, visit avant-garde galleries, independent bookstores and Sunday outdoor vintage bazaars. In addition to Italy’s timeless monuments, world famous architects such as Renzo Piano, Santiago Calatrava and Zaha Hadid have also added their special touch to this stylish city.

BOND’s culture experts will introduce you to the beauty and charm, the art and culture of the ‘Bel Paese’ with a curated selection of the most authentic experiences in Italy.