In the city or out in the hills, ideal destinations for a long weekend getaway this spring.
Springis on its way:the days are getting longer, the temperatures are rising the first flowers are starting to bloom on the trees. Nature is waking up, creating the perfect climate to enjoy a few days of rest. From March to the beginning of May, with Easter in between, there’s no shortage of opportunities to escape the daily routine, so why not take advantage of the spring bank holidays?
If you would like to spend a fewdays offdiscovering beautiful Italian holiday destinations, here are some suggestions of where you could go to make the most of the2024 spring holidaysin locations that are ideal for both city lovers and those who want to relax in the hills.
A weekend inVenice
Providing the backdrop for numerous feature films,Veniceis one of the best-known Italian cities in the world: a perfect combination of art and romance.
What are the best-known attractions inVenice? A must-see is theCanal Grande: the wide canal traverses the historic centre of the city, dividing it in two and offering spectacular views that are guaranteed to become the focus of your holiday snaps.
Goinginto the heart of Venice you will findSt Mark’s Square, which has always beenconsideredthe city’s living room. In addition to the square itself, you can admire St. Peter’s Basilica, the Bell Tower, the Clock Tower and the Florian Cafe, as well as the famouslion statuestowering above you.
Next to theBasilicastands theDoge’s Palace, the seat of the Serenissima Republic and the greatest example of Venetian Gothic architecture with its famous exterior façade. Then there’s the Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs, a favourite destination for couples from all over the world.
Not to mention the exhibitions you couldvisitin the city: until 2ndJune, for instance, theMuseo del Novecento (Museum of the Twentieth Century)is hostingBanksy. Painting Walls, which is dedicated to the very popular and still unknown street artist.
Until 7thApril, at theGallerie dell'Accademiain Venice, you can admireMadonna in Adoration of the Child, one of Giovanni Bellini’s most famous paintings. Then perhaps enjoy a visit to the famousPeggy Guggenheim Collection, home to several artworks and prestigious temporary exhibitions, such as the currentMarcel Duchamp and the Lure of the Copy.
To enjoy the best of the city’s attractions, we recommend staying in one of its many hotels.Maison Venezia | UNA Esperienze, located in the historical Cannaregio district will wow you with its Venetian-style architecture and furnishings: its 28 rooms are decorated with Murano glass chandeliers, and is housed in a finely restored period palace.
H2 – Relax in the hills of Siena
If you love to immerse yourself in nature, to admire the rolling green hills around you while sipping a glass of excellent wine, the right destination for yourspring breakisMontepulciano, the Tuscan town famous for its wine and food tradition.
The Church of San Biagio, the Tower of Pulcinella and the Church of Sant’Agostino are just some of the attractions that you can find in this mediaeval village that is rich in history and culture, and home to numerous wineries specialising in the production of the famousVino Nobile di Montepulciano.
If you want to get a taste of some interesting local traditions, we recommend the 9thEaster Festival, held from 30thMarch to 14thApril: an unmissable event for music lovers featuring a rich programme of concerts.
Enjoy a long walk overlooking the Tuscan cypress trees and a take few photographs before relaxing in a historic 18th century villa. In the hamlet of Acquaviva, you will find theRelais Villa Grazianella | UNAEsperienze: an elegant hotel surrounded by magnificent olive trees, with an indoor restaurant and a swimming pool overlooking the Sienese hills.
Guests can also visit the villa’s historicwine cellar, take part in exclusive tastings, learn about the local wine tradition and sample the best local brands.
In Matera,between history and culture
Where to go on a spring holiday in Italy?Matera is a fascinating destination with unique cultural heritage.
Although the city is most famous for being a “Christmas” setting and hosts an annual nativity scene that comes to life,Materais actually a suitable destination for any time of year.
UNESCO World Heritage SitesSassi di Materaare the main attraction in this town: these two districts are known as Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, where the buildings and architecture are carved into the rock. Defined as a cultural landscape, the Sassi di Matera have also provided the setting for several blockbuster films, such as Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ.
Piazza Vittorio Venetois the city’s main square and the view from here allows you to admire the surrounding landscape. From the square, you can explore the most picturesque corners of Matera such as the Ipogeo MateraSum, the 19a Buca restaurant and the Palombaro Lungo.
Among themost famous buildingsare the Cathedral, the Church of Santa Maria DeIdris that is built into the rock, the National Museum of Modern and Medieval Art and the National Archaeological Museum of Matera.
Finally, don’t forget to visit theMurgia Materana Regional Parkwith its ancient artefacts and dozens of churches built into the rock: the best known spot is the Murgia Timone viewpoint, which can also be reached by car.
If you are wondering whereto stay in Matera to enjoy its attractions, the answer isUNAHOTELS MH Matera. Just five minutes from the Sassi and the historic centre, the accommodation is surrounded by a five-hectare park with large open spaces, and offers several services that will make your stay even more special.
Over 120 tastefully furnished rooms, two swimming pools and a spa are just some of the amenities you’ll find here.
Spring holidays in 2024: the ideal opportunity to take a few days off and visitsomeof the most beautiful locations in Italy.
