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Ravenna’s Mosaics and Beaches: A Dazzling Day Out from Bologna

Bologna, renowned for its rich history, delicious cuisine, and beautifully preserved architecture, serves as a strategic base for exploring the wonders of the surrounding Italian regions. One such remarkable destination, perfect for a day trip from Bologna, is the captivating city of Ravenna. Known for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and pristine beaches, Ravenna offers an unforgettable combination of culturally enriching experiences and relaxing seaside escapades.

Ravenna’s Mosaics: A Glimpse into Byzantine Majesty

The history of Ravenna’s mosaics dates back to the 5th and 6th centuries when the city served as the capital of the Western Roman Empire. The mosaics found in the Basilica of San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo are particularly noteworthy, offering aesthetics which represent the zenith of Byzantine art.

The Basilica of San Vitale houses one of the most significant collections of early Christian mosaics in the world. The luxurious, vibrant, detailed mosaics featuring biblical scenes and ornate patterns are a rich tapestry of color that leaves viewers in awe. The domed Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, regarded as the earliest and best-preserved of all mosaic monuments of Ravenna, is another must-visit. The mosaics, bathed in a deep blue, make the starry night sky come alive within this ancient tomb.

The Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, overflowing with historical and religious significance, is another great example of Ravenna’s mastery of mosaic art. The 26 scenes from the New Testament showcased here are a tribute not only to the artistry of the Byzantine era but also to the spiritual devotion of its people.

Ravenna’s mosaics are not just artistic masterpieces; they serve as a historical narrative that helps visitors delve deeper into the past of this enchanting city. Moreover, given their incredible state of conservation, they offer a near-unparalleled window into the world of late antiquity and early Christianity.

Beach Bliss: A Perfect Escape

After feasting your eyes on the breathtaking mosaics, what better way to placate the senses than with a tranquil escapade to Ravenna’s picturesque beaches? Lido di Dante and Marina di Ravenna, located approximately 9 km from the city center, boast stunning sandy stretches, crystal-clear water, and a vibrant atmosphere that promises absolute relaxation and amusement.

Whether you are a fan of sunbathing, swimming, water sports, or simply strolling along the coastline, the beaches in Ravenna have much to offer. For those looking for more leisurely activities, the numerous beach clubs and sea-facing bistros serve local delicacies, signature cocktails, and offer stunning views of the sun setting over the Adriatic. This rich blend of activities makes Ravenna’s beaches a worthwhile destination for both relaxation-seekers and adventure-enthusiasts alike.

The journey from Bologna to Ravenna is a straight drive along the SS16, taking just over an hour, making it a perfect day trip. Visitors arriving by train will find frequent services from Bologna’s central station, with the journey taking around an hour and a half.

Ravenna’s Mosaics and Beaches: A Worthwhile Day Out

In conclusion, the magnificence of the mosaics in Ravenna, combined with the serene beauty of its beaches, offers a unique blend of cultural enrichment and enjoyable relaxation. This striking convergence of history and leisure provides a one-of-a-kind experience just a stone’s throw away from Bologna, making it an unmissable day trip for those visiting the region. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a beach bum, in Ravenna, there’s something to captivate everyone. It is a trip that promises to leave you enchanted and yearning for more of Italy’s undeniably irresistible charm.

Discovering La Spezia: A Hidden Gem on the Italian Riviera

We’re taking you on a journey to explore the charming city of La Spezia, nestled along the Italian Riviera. Often overlooked in favor of the more famous Cinque Terre, La Spezia has a lot to offer for those who are willing to spend a few days getting to know this underrated destination. Here are the top reasons why you should consider visiting La Spezia on your next Italian adventure.

Stunning Gulf Views

Few cities can boast a more picturesque gulf than La Spezia, framed by the majestic Apuan Alps and the Apennines. Strolling along the waterfront promenade, you’ll be captivated by the striking contrast between the mountains and the sea. To fully appreciate the beauty of the area, consider taking a boat tour around the gulf.

La Spezia’s waterfront promenade, known as the “Passeggiata Morin,” has a fascinating history dating back to the 19th century. It was initially developed as part of the city’s expansion and modernization plan under the Kingdom of Sardinia. The promenade was designed to provide a relaxing and scenic space for residents and visitors to enjoy the stunning views of the Gulf of La Spezia. Over time, the promenade has undergone several transformations, including the construction of the famous statue of Giuseppe Garibaldi, a key figure in the unification of Italy. Today, the Passeggiata Morin is a vibrant and bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it an essential stop for those exploring the rich history and culture of La Spezia.

Rich Cultural Offerings

La Spezia is home to numerous museums that cater to a variety of interests. Some must-visits include the Naval Museum (soon to be renovated), the Lia Museum, which houses illuminated manuscripts and artworks by Titian and Bellini, and the Diocesan Museum, showcasing sacred art from local churches. Other noteworthy cultural attractions are the Ethnographic Museum, the Seal Museum, the Archaeological Museum, the Transportation Museum, and the CAMEC Museum of Modern Art.

The CAMEC Museum of Modern Art in La Spezia is a cultural gem showcasing an impressive collection of contemporary art from the 20th and 21st centuries. Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, the museum provides an engaging space for art enthusiasts to explore the works of both established and emerging artists. The museum’s collection features a diverse range of mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and video art, highlighting the evolving landscape of modern artistic expression. Temporary exhibitions ensure that there is always something new to discover, making CAMEC an exciting and dynamic cultural destination for visitors to La Spezia.

Elegant Architecture

Wander around La Spezia’s historic center, and you’ll be enchanted by the well-preserved Art Nouveau buildings adorned with intricate sculptures, friezes, and grand doorways. Take an hour or two to explore these architectural gems by following a walking itinerary .

In La Spezia, several notable Art Nouveau buildings can be found, showcasing the city’s embrace of this elegant architectural style during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. One of the most prominent examples is Palazzo Maggiani, situated on Viale Aldo Ferrari. The building is adorned with exquisite details, including ornamental sculptures, intricate friezes, and impressive portals. The facade of this stunning edifice reflects the influence of the Liberty style, which is the Italian interpretation of Art Nouveau.

Another remarkable Art Nouveau building is Villa Marmori, located in the Morucciola district. This majestic villa was built for the Marmori family and showcases the characteristic curved lines, floral motifs, and sinuous forms typical of the Art Nouveau movement. These architectural masterpieces are a testament to La Spezia’s rich cultural heritage and are sure to captivate any visitor with an interest in art, history, or architecture.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Just a stone’s throw from La Spezia, you’ll find the UNESCO-listed Portovenere, Cinque Terre, and the islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto. These coastal areas boast unique landscapes, characterized by dramatic cliffs, terraced vineyards, and charming villages nestled between the sea and the hills.

For centuries, these awe-inspiring locations have captivated the hearts and minds of poets, writers, and artists, such as Lord Byron, Percy Bysshe Shelley, and Eugenio Montale, who sought inspiration in the stunning surroundings. The area’s undeniable charm and beauty have earned it a special place in the world of literature and art, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a rich cultural and historical tapestry.

Aside from the poetic allure, the region also offers various outdoor activities, such as hiking and boat tours, allowing visitors to explore and appreciate the pristine landscapes and the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Whether you’re searching for artistic inspiration, a romantic escape, or simply a memorable adventure, the magical allure of these coastal gems near La Spezia is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Charming Villages

La Spezia’s province is home to six of Italy’s most beautiful villages. Tellaro, perched on the sea, has long been a favorite of writers and poets. Montemarcello, Brugnato, Varese Ligure, Vernazza, and Framura all offer picturesque scenes and well-preserved historical centers.

Montemarcello, a picturesque village located in the province of La Spezia, has earned its reputation as one of Italy’s most beautiful “borghi” (small towns), thanks to its captivating charm and breathtaking vistas. This enchanting destination sits on a hilltop overlooking the Ligurian Sea and the Magra River, providing visitors with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Montemarcello’s narrow, winding streets, colorful houses, and charming piazzas are quintessential examples of Italian allure, making it a must-see destination for travelers seeking an authentic Italian experience.

The village’s rich history, dating back to Roman times, is apparent in its well-preserved architecture, such as the Church of San Pietro, which boasts an exquisite Romanesque facade. Montemarcello’s exceptional beauty and timeless appeal make it a captivating destination for those exploring the wonders of Italy’s picturesque borghi.

Hiking Opportunities

La Spezia is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts, with numerous trails that connect the city to surrounding villages and hills. Some popular routes include Campiglia to Portovenere, Campiglia to Cinque Terre, and the trail from Sarbia to Montalbano. For more adventurous trekkers, the nearby Apuan Alps provide an array of challenging climbs and breathtaking vistas.

The ring trail MAROLA-CAMPIGLIA is a scenic loop that begins in Acquasanta and leads to Campiglia. It follows the AVG/AV5T trail towards Porto Venere, passing notable landmarks like a church, the Piccolo Blu, a mill, and a former sports field. The path continues along a ridge with breathtaking views of Campiglia, before descending to the picturesque village of Marola. After passing through Marola, the trail connects back to Acquasanta via Viale Fieschi. Along the way, hikers will experience varied landscapes, including forests, a Portoro quarry, and panoramic ridge staircases, offering a diverse and enjoyable hiking experience.

Beaches for Every Taste

La Spezia’s coastline offers an array of beaches to suit every preference, from sandy shores in Portovenere, Monterosso, Levanto, and Lerici, to pebbled beaches in Riomaggiore and Corniglia. Whether you prefer well-equipped beach resorts or secluded coves, you’ll find your ideal seaside escape here.

Lerici, a picturesque coastal town in the province of La Spezia, boasts a stunning array of beautiful beaches that cater to various preferences. Renowned for its charming harbor, historical castle, and vibrant waterfront, the area offers a diverse selection of shores that attract visitors and locals alike. The main beaches in Lerici include the sandy Lido di Lerici, the more secluded Fiascherino, and the picturesque San Terenzo, each with their own unique charm.

Lido di Lerici is a popular spot due to its convenient location near the town center, offering various amenities and water sports opportunities. Fiascherino, nestled between two cliffs, provides a more tranquil setting for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Here, visitors can enjoy crystal-clear waters and natural beauty, perfect for a relaxing day at the beach. San Terenzo, situated close to the historical San Terenzo Castle, boasts a wide stretch of fine sand, shallow waters, and a promenade lined with colorful Ligurian houses.

In addition to these main beaches, the Lerici coastline is dotted with numerous smaller coves and inlets, accessible via hiking trails or boat rides. This variety ensures that every beachgoer can find their ideal spot to soak up the sun and enjoy the stunning Italian Riviera.

In conclusion, La Spezia is an incredible destination that deserves to be explored beyond just being a gateway to Cinque Terre. The city’s stunning gulf views, rich cultural offerings, elegant architecture, charming villages, and abundant hiking opportunities make it a must-visit for any traveler seeking a unique and memorable Italian adventure.

Discovering the Best Attractions in La Spezia and the Surrounding Area, Including Cinque Terre and the Marble Quarries of Massa Carrara

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy, and it’s easy to see why. This UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises five cliffside towns that are connected by hiking trails and a train line. The brightly colored houses, narrow alleys, and stunning views of the sea make this a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting the region.

Portovenere

Just south of La Spezia lies the charming fishing village of Portovenere. Here, you can explore the historic castle, visit the Gothic church of San Pietro, and enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the many seafood restaurants that line the harbor. The stunning views of the Ligurian coast make this a perfect spot for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat.

Marble Quarries

Massa Carrara is renowned for its marble quarries, which have been in operation since Roman times. The marble from these quarries has been used to create some of the most famous sculptures and buildings in history, including Michelangelo’s David. A visit to the quarries is a unique experience that offers a glimpse into the history and techniques of marble extraction and processing. You can take a guided tour of the quarries and learn how the marble is extracted from the mountains and transformed into works of art.

The quarries are located in the Apuan Alps, which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. You can take a scenic drive or hike through the mountains to reach the quarries. Once there, you can see the workers extracting the marble using traditional methods, such as hammer and chisel. You can also visit the processing plants where the marble is cut and polished to perfection.

The quarries are still active today, and you can purchase marble products at the many shops and markets in Massa Carrara. From small souvenirs to large pieces of furniture, there is something for everyone. You can also visit the Museo del Marmo, a museum dedicated to the history and culture of marble in the region.

A visit to the marble quarries is a unique experience that will leave you in awe of the skill and craftsmanship that goes into creating these beautiful works of art. It’s a must-see attraction for anyone interested in history, art, or geology.

Gulf of Poets

The Gulf of Poets stretches from La Spezia to Portovenere and is known for its stunning views, crystal-clear waters, and charming fishing villages. Take a boat tour to explore the area and visit the picturesque villages of Lerici and San Terenzo. You can also hike along the coastline and enjoy the breathtaking views of the sea.

Lerici Castle

Lerici Castle is a medieval fortress that offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Poets and the surrounding hills. The castle has a rich history that dates back to the 12th century and has been the site of numerous battles and sieges. Today, it is open to the public and offers guided tours, concerts, and cultural events.

Palazzo Ducale

Palazzo Ducale is a historic palace in the heart of Massa Carrara that houses the Civic Museum. The museum offers a collection of art and artifacts from the region’s history, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics. The palace itself is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture and is worth a visit in its own right.

Lunigiana

Located just north of Massa Carrara, Lunigiana is a beautiful area of Tuscany that is known for its picturesque villages, medieval castles, and stunning countryside. The area is perfect for hiking and cycling, and there are many charming towns to explore, including Fivizzano, Pontremoli, and Aulla.

Versilia Beaches

Versilia is a coastal area that is famous for its beautiful beaches, elegant resorts, and lively nightlife. The area is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, and it offers a wide range of activities, including sunbathing, swimming, shopping, and dining. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Viareggio, Forte dei Marmi, and Marina di Pietrasanta.

Forte dei Marmi

Forte is a picturesque town located in the heart of Versilia. The town is known for its elegant shops, high-end restaurants, and luxurious beach clubs. It’s a popular destination for wealthy tourists and celebrities, and it’s easy to see why. The town has a glamorous atmosphere and a beautiful beach that stretches for miles.

The town takes its name from the historic Forte dei Marmi Fortress, which was built in the 18th century to protect the town from attacks by sea. The fortress has since been restored and is now open to the public for guided tours. Visitors can explore the many rooms and corridors of the fortress and learn about its fascinating history.

The town is a popular destination for high-end fashion and luxury brands, and you can find everything from designer clothes and accessories to fine jewelry and watches. The town also has a weekly market that takes place every Wednesday, where you can browse a wide selection of clothing, accessories, and household goods.

Forte dei Marmi is also home to a number of excellent restaurants and cafes. The town’s seaside location means that there is a strong focus on seafood, and you can enjoy everything from fresh fish and shellfish to octopus and squid. The town is also known for its excellent gelato and pastries, and there are many cafes and bakeries where you can indulge in a sweet treat.

One of the most popular attractions in Forte dei Marmi is its beautiful beach. The beach stretches for miles and is lined with luxurious beach clubs that offer everything from sun loungers and umbrellas to bars and restaurants. The water is clear and inviting, and it’s a great place to cool off on a hot summer day. You can also rent paddleboats and kayaks to explore the coastline or take a sunset cruise on a sailboat.

Fosdinovo Castle

Fosdinovo Castle is an impressive medieval fortress located in the hills above Massa Carrara. The castle dates back to the 11th century and was built to protect the surrounding countryside from invaders. The castle has been restored and is now open to the public for guided tours, medieval banquets, and cultural events.

The castle is perched on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. From the top of the castle, you can see for miles in every direction and get a sense of the strategic importance of the fortress. The castle has a rich history that includes sieges, battles, and even a famous love story.

Inside the castle, you can explore the many rooms and corridors that make up the fortress. The castle has a number of interesting features, including a drawbridge, a moat, and a chapel. The castle also has a large courtyard that was once used for jousting and other medieval games.

In addition to its historic significance, Fosdinovo Castle is also known for its cultural events. The castle hosts a number of concerts, art exhibits, and other cultural events throughout the year. These events provide a unique opportunity to experience the castle in a different way and to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding countryside.

The story of the ghost of Bianca Maria Aloisa, daughter of Giacomo Malaspina and Olivia Grimaldi, has long been associated with Castello Malaspina. According to legend, Bianca was girl who fell in love with someone who her father did not approve of. In an effort to break up the relationship, her father had her walled up alive in a room with her faithful dog and a boar, which were symbols of her rebellion.

During restoration work at the castle, the remains of the young girl and the animals were discovered. Since then, many visitors to the castle have reported sightings of a ghostly figure resembling Bianca. Witnesses have described seeing a young girl with long hair passing through the castle walls. The legend of Bianca’s ghost has become a source of fascination for many, and experts in the occult and historical research have investigated the sightings.

One particularly eerie aspect of the legend is the bedroom dedicated to Bianca. The bed in the room is said to emit the sound of a beating heart, and those who are brave enough to touch it claim to feel a cold breeze blowing across their hands. The pomegranates placed at the four corners of the bed are also said to hold some mystical significance.

Tuscan Best Beaches You Should Visit North of Pisa

Tuscany is an Italian region well known for its rich culture, beautiful art, and history. For many, the first image that comes to mind when thinking about Tuscany have is picturesque and important cities such as Florence and Pisa, which have made history. But Tuscany isn’t only that. It is also a region with a beautiful coast and stunning beaches that should be enjoyed just as much as the rich culture that characterizes Tuscany. Indeed, if you are visiting Pisa or Florence or even Siena, you should consider combining a city tour full of history and art with a beach day. Not only you’ll be able to soak in the sun and relax for a while, but you’ll also be astonished by the wonderful panorama you’ll be in front of.

But what are the best beaches you should be visiting when in Tuscany? To help you make up your mind, we prepared a small guide about the top 3 beach towns in this beautiful town.

Viareggio

Viareggio is also called the Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea and with good reasons. The view is stunning: on one side you can appreciate the beautiful sea and to the white marble peaks of Massa Carrara. Even if not as famous as other Tuscan cities, Viareggio is the second-largest city in the province of Lucca and it is not only popular during the summer season but also for its famous carnival.

The coast is small but worth visiting: with around 10 km of sandy beaches, Viareggio is an awesome town to stop by for a while to relax under the sun and eat delicious food by the beach. Also, if looking for something “more active” to do, you can stroll around the popular “La Passeggiata” a 3 km long road running parallel to the beach scattered with several gelaterias, cafes, restaurants along the way. If you get tired or if you want to enjoy your gelato sitting down with a view of the sea, you can sit down on one of the many benches along the road, decorated in the traditional liberty style.

Additionally, if you are looking for some good shopping, Viareggio might be the right place for you.

Choose from one of the several “Bagni” or simply go to a “Spiaggia Libera”, or free beach and enjoy everything that Viareggio offers!

Forte Dei Marmi

Forte Dei Marmi is much better known compared to Viareggio, but only because it is a slightly posher destination, popular among many celebrities. This exclusive beach town is worth visiting because of its astonishing panorama, with the elegant villas hidden behind the lush vegetation of the pineta (pine tree forest) and the stunning view of the Alpi Apuane. But Forte Dei Marmi is also fine dining and luxurious shopping. If you love the sea but also fashion, Forte Dei Marmi is the place to go as it is the chicest place of all Tuscany. It is the ideal destination for everyone looking to experience some luxury, with plenty of posh beach resorts offering more privacy and comfort than other “simpler beaches”. Of course, this also translated in higher prices, both when it comes to stay somewhere or to eat at a restaurant. But if you are not afraid to spend a little bit more for a luxurious experience, even if only for a couple of days, you should consider visiting Forte Dei Marmi.

Also, keep in mind that even if Forte Dei Marmi is mainly remembered for its luxurious villas and high-end restaurants and beach resorts, this beach town also has an interesting history and traditions hidden behind the beautiful mountains of the Alpi Apuane. When you are looking for a break from the beach, Forte Dei Marmi has plenty to offer to its visitors. You can visit the inside parts of the city and discover a place that is very different from the “chic” beach town you though Forte Dei Marmi would be.

For this reason, if you can, try to include a couple of days in this picturesque and famous Tuscan beach town and try to explore more of the town than the beaches and the city center: you won’t be disappointed!

Marina Di Carrara

Massa di Carrara is famous around the world for its beautiful white marble used throughout the century to build churches or even wonderful villas and for decoration. The caves can still be visited and have an important historical meaning: they were used by the Roman for their sculptures and during the Renaissance by artists such as Michelangelo. What many do not know is that in the small Carrara, you’ll also find a little sea town, Marina di Carrara. If you want to mix a visit to the famous Carrara with some relaxing time at the beach, consider visiting Carrara. With its several resorts and restaurants, but also the beautiful coast, Marina di Carrara is gaining traction as a tourist destination in Tuscany. The nightlife is particularly lively in this small town, meaning that if you are looking to fully relax, this might not be your ideal destination. But if you are looking for some life even during the night, you should experience Marina di Carrara. Also, if you are looking for some shopping, you’ll find good deals in local shops.

The Bottom Line

Tuscany is an excellent Italian destination that can suit everyone’s taste: from good food to rich history and culture, but also wonderful landscapes, everybody will be able to enjoy this wonderful Italian region. Tuscany is also a great destination if you are looking to enjoy the sun and the beach. With so many things to do, it might be hard to choose what to do and where to go. If you want to combine history, art, and culture with stunning beaches, consider including at least one of the destinations we proposed in this short guide for you. The destinations we proposed you here are all different and unique, and possibly suited for different people’s taste, but without a doubt, you’ll find the panorama stunning!

Covid Fase 2: What Can You Do In Italy After 4th May 2020

The novel Coronavirus outbreak has affected all countries of the world, some more than others, with the result of a general slowdown in the global economy. One of the countries most hit by the outbreak, Italy, after almost 3 months of harsh quarantine, is slowly opening up.

Italy has a strong touristic industry which during these months has dropped significantly, Many business owners are pushing to open, but reopening will not be possible unless the right measures are taken.

The Italian Prime Minister, Giuseppe Conte, has announced the last 26th of April, the beginning of the so-called “Fase 2”, which is operative starting from the 4th of May and that involves the opening of some businesses (including restaurants and cafes), public parks, and some open-air sportive activities. But essentially, the lockdown will be still active and single citizens will not have much freedom of movement even after the 4th of May. But what exactly can you do in Italy starting from the 4th of May? Keep reading to learn more about the not so clear Italian “Fase 2”.

Some Museums Will Open But Everything “With Distance”

Italy is a country rich in culture, art, and museums. While during the quarantine, all museums stayed closed and some organized online tours to some interested visitors, from early May it will be possible to visit some archeological sites and museums. Not all museums will reopen at the same time and what is very clear is that even if the museums will open, social distancing and COVID safety measures will be imposed.

For example, the number of visitors allowed to enter will be limited, everyone will need to wear face masks and respect the distance of 1.5 meters from other people. Museums are currently working on organizing new ways of offering a visit in all safety and without going against the measures for the novel Coronavirus outbreak. All the underground archeological sites will remain closed and some museums will implement strict measures at the entrance, even those open-air museums like Pompei, for example.

Virtual Reality tours (with the use of the special glasses), as well as audio guides, will not be allowed unless the museums will be able to guarantee the correct disinfestation of the apparate.

Take-Aways, Including Gelaterie Will Start To Reopen From The 4th Of May

The new decree is set to slowly re-start the small and medium restoration, a sector that has been strongly hit by this epidemic outbreak. From the 4th of May, all of those restaurants that remained closed during the quarantine, bars, gelaterie, and pastry shops are allowed to open, all with the addition of takeaway services. Indeed, while restaurants will not be allowed to deliver food and drinks directly to their clients’ houses, clients in all Italy will be allowed to order from home and take the food directly at the restaurant, bar, or gelateria. r. The Italian Prime Minister, Giuseppe Conte, had emphasized the importance of not gathering outside restaurants or bars and to eat inside one’s home.

However, each region might take a stricter approach to Fase 2 and impose safety measures and the need for constant disinfestation to each restaurant or bar.

What Happens After 18th Of May?

Officially, Italians will be on total lockdown until the 18th of May. Starting from this date, the museums, libraries, and some parks are allowed to reopen.

What seems more clear is that starting from the 1st of June (which conveniently falls right before a public holiday, the 2nd of June), the Government is planning to implement the reopening of bars, restaurants, hairdressers, and estheticians. On how this will happen, the Government has not yet established any measure, with the promise of communicating them later on.

What About Beaches? Will They Reopen?

Soon beaches to reopen, right now you can walk, swim or exercise, no sunbathing

In most parts of Italy, beaches are not restricted to lay down under the sun and swim in the sea. Restoration is involved in most establishments, which means that strict measures will need to be followed for the reopening of beaches.

Each region is adopting different measures to guarantee safety on the beach. For example, in Veneto, there will be blocks of 50 square meters per family to enjoy the beach, Sicily will impose the check of everybody’s temperature at the entrance with the appropriate scanners, while Sardegna will only allow access to a limited number of people.

So, beaches will open, but the restrictions will be significant. Most people will need to book their place at the beach online or through a phone call, to limit queuing at the entrance. In the Lazio Region, sat the beach will need to download an app to book their spot at the beach and all beaches will allow the entrance to a limited number of people and the guarantee of social distancing on the sand as well as at the restaurants and bars, with measures imposing a distance of at least 2 meters in the restaurants and 4 meters on the beach (with some regions imposing even up to 10 meters distancing). To guarantee safety, it will be essential to disinfect chairs, beach umbrellas, and cots, as well as showers and toilets.

The Bottomline

As you can see, Fase 2 doesn’t mean that everything will come back to normal. Indeed, this summer will be probably a strange one, with new rules and new safety measures to follow which might make it more difficult to feel at ease. Certainly, most restaurants, small businesses, and bars have an urge to open and to restart their operations. With the right measures, you’ll still be able to visit museums and to enjoy yourself at the beach, as well as eat from a restaurant. In such hard and uncertain times, it is normal to feel lost and possibly fed up with the situation, but the good news is that the Italian government and the businesses involved are doing their best to slowly start the economy and to go back to normal life. Of course, all within the limits that this new coronavirus outbreak imposes.