02 Sep 2021
A getaway to Italy could still be on the cards this autumn after Italy drops the quarantine rules for fully-vaccinated British travellers. As schools go back and the summer season is coming to an end, summer hasn't yet finished for Italy as the country welcomes back British visitors looking for a much-needed post-lockdown break. With pleasant temperatures of around 22 °C, fewer tourists, crowd-free attractions and delicious food, Italy is the idyllic destination for a safe late-summer holiday. With this in mind, the Italian National Tourist Board wanted to share its latest restrictions, news, dates for the diary and new hotel openings.
LATEST MEASURES
Five-day quarantine removed for double vaccinated Brits
From today, fully-vaccinated Brits arriving in Italy will no longer have to quarantine for five days upon arrival. Travellers must have received their second dose of the vaccine at least 14 days prior to travel and must present a negative PCR or antigen test taken within the 48 hours before arrival in Italy. Unvaccinated UK arrivals will still be required to present a negative test and self-isolate for five days.
Italy's Green Pass
UK travellers will either need to apply for Italy's 'Green Pass' certificate, which comes in digital or paper versions, or present their NHS vaccination pass which is also recognised in Italy as a Green Pass and can be either scanned or printed. The pass shows that people have been vaccinated, tested negative or recovered from covid-19 and is required for indoor dining in restaurants and bars as well as being mandatory for access to museums, cinemas, theatres, gyms, swimming pools, amusement parks, spas, wellness centres, festivals, fairs, casinos, bingo halls and sports stadiums and also the following types of transport: domestic flights, ships and ferries connecting different regions, Intercity, Intercity Night and High Speed Trains (the COVID-19 green pass is not required to board local trains), coaches and buses connecting different regions, coaches and buses on hire with driver. The pass, which does not apply to children under the age of 12, will not be necessary for consuming food or drink at tables outdoors or drinking a coffee while standing at the bar.
LATEST NEWS FROM ITALY
Explore the new secret network of underground tunnels at the Colosseum in Rome
For the first time, visitors to Rome will be able to experience the Colosseum's underground tunnels. Visitors can experience a tour of the tunnels, previously unavailable to the public, and explore this network of historic passages which offers a closer look at the Italian capital's past. This secret underworld, or hypogeum of the Colosseum was home to underground chambers and vaulted passageways where gladiators and wild animals were held. The underground experience first opened on 26th June and can be accessed through the Full Experience Colosseum ticket. It is the second phase of an ongoing restoration project. The first phase saw the total clean-up of the Colosseum's façade, and the final phase will see the restoration of the galleries and a new lighting and visitor centre which will be complete in 2024. Find more information at: https://www.rome.net/activities/colosseum-underground-tour
Pompeii's historic museum reopens with new artefacts
The Antiquarian of Pompeii has reopened as a museum, having undergone a total refurbishment. The recently opened museum will display updated exhibits of ancient Pompeii's frescoes, treasures, and excavation artifacts, as well as new state of the art guided audio narration and digital service devices.
For more information visit: http://pompeiisites.org/en/archaeological-site/antiquarium/
Now Open: MArTA Museum in Taranto, Puglia
Reopened on 9th May, the MArTA Museum of Taranto is now officially accessible to the public once again. With their displays ranging from Prehistory through the Ricciardi collection, the ancient artifacts to see are seemingly endless. Visitors can learn about the fascinating history of the Taras by studying the museum's exhibitions of captivating statues, tombs, pottery, mosaics, and more. Reservations can be made at the MArTA's home website, which can be found here: https://museotaranto.beniculturali.it/en/
DATES FOR THE DIARY
Now open: FICO Food Park in Bologna
A trip to FICO Food Park is perfect for sampling classic Italian recipes and discovering more about the culture behind the cuisine. Now reopen for the summer, the park features a range of incredible local eateries from fine dining restaurants to hidden gem street kiosks. Travellers can also learn more about Italian food production industry by visiting any of the 40 factories that have partnered with FICO. It's also a great place for animal lovers, as cows, goats, sheep, and pigs are among just some of the farm animals that are available to visit at the park. For more information visit: https://www.fico.it/en
1st – 11th September, 2021: Venice International Film Festival
The 78th Venice International Film Festival will be taking place during the first week and a half of September. Organized by La Biennale di Venezia, the festival aims to spread awareness and appreciation of cinema on an international level. Originally beginning in 1932, the VIFF is the oldest film festival in the world and continues to be one of the most well-known and prestigious cinematic events with every coming year. The festival has presented world-class films and talent for decades, making it unmissable for any lover of the arts. For more information visit: https://www.labiennale.org/en/cinema/2021
17th – 20th September, 2021: Cheese Festival in Bra, Piedmont
Every two years, the Slow Food Movement and City of Bra present the Cheese Festival. This year's theme is “Consider The Animals” which gives tribute to the living creatures who make the festival's cheese possible. This theme advocates for the ethical treatment of dairy animals, including large and clean pastures, access to proper nutrition, and adequate veterinary care. The event itself offers taste workshops, dinner dates, and conferences for visitors to attend, making it a fun and interactive way to learn more about food. For more information visit: https://cheese.slowfood.it/en/
24th September – 17th October, 2021: Verdi Opera Festival in Parma
The Verdi Opera Festival, hosted by Teatro Regio di Parma, is returning this year. Honouring the world-famous opera composer Giuseppe Verdi, the festival presents the operatic arts with an incredible collection of musical masterpieces. The musical director Roberto Abbado will be leading classic productions such as Un Ballo In Maschera, Messa da Requiem, and Simon Boccanegra this fall. For more information visit: https://www.teatroregioparma.it/en/festival-verdi-2021/
10th October, 2021: Barcolana Sail Race in Trieste
The largest sailing race in the world will be heading off from Italy this October. First held in 1969, the Barcolana is a historical event held by the yacht club Società Velica di Barcola e Grignano. Barcolana 53 registration is now open, a regatta which will take place over 13 nautical miles. The finish line is in the Dam of Porto Vecchio, just off the Piazza Unità d'Italia, making for an idyllic ending to an exciting race. For more information visit: www.barcolana.it
15th – 24th October, 2021: Eurochocolate in Perugia, Umbria
The 27th edition of Eurochocolate will be held indoors for the first time in its history this fall. Holding its title as Europe's largest chocolate-themed festival, the event will celebrate all kinds of the sweet treats. With chocolate shows, emporiums, tastings, and demonstrations, this festival is perfect for travellers with a sweet tooth. Visitors can even help prepare chocolate with master chocolatiers and confectioners, making this sugary experience unmissable. For more information visit: www.eurochocolate.com
HOTEL UPDATES AND OPENINGS
Hotels Opened in 2021:
58 San Corrado Di Noto, Relais Chateaux in Noto, Sicily
The hotel incorporates Mediterranean culture in its exclusive beach club, wellbeing spa, yoga pavilion, and Sicilian Cantina wine cellar. Additionally, their gourmet restaurant Principe di Belludia is curated by two-Michelin star awarded chef Ciccio Sultano. For more information visit: https://ilsancorradodinoto.com/en/
5* Grand Palladium Sicilia Resort & Spa and Grand Palladium Garden Beach Resort & Spa, Cefalu, Sicily
These locations feature the Zentropia Palladium Spa, five restaurants, and plenty of club facilities for guests travelling with children. Various dining options as well as pool, lobby, and sports bars are also available. For more information visit:
Torre Del Nera Albergo diffuso & Spa, Scheggino, Umbria
Centred in the Medieval hamlet of Scheggino, this hotel offers easy access to the neighbouring locations of Spoleto, Norcia, Assisi, and Perugia. The accommodation also offers traditional cuisine and wine at the Torre del Nera Restaurant, and wellness treatments at the Torre del Nera Spa. For more information visit: https://torredelnera.it/en/
5* Helvetia and Bristol, Florence
This 19th century townhouse features stunning Florentine architecture and is located in the city's historical centre. It also grants guests access to nearby facilities for activities such as horseback riding, golfing, and wine tasting. For more information visit: https://www.lhw.com/hotel/Hotel-Helvetia-Bristol-Florence-Italy
5* Hotel St. Martin: 5 stars, Rome
Only a short walk from Piazza Della Repubblica and other Roman monuments, this hotel is ideal for tourists. Beyond its bar and restaurant, there is also a fitness area, private terrace, and Congress Centre that can occupy up to 200 people. For more information visit: https://www.stmartinroma.com/en/
5* The Local (Hilton Curio Collection), Porto Rotondo, Sardinia
Overlooking the Gulf of Cugnana, the hotel neighbours several beaches in Sardinia's northern hills. It includes an outdoor pool, fitness centre, on-site restaurant, and pet-friendly rooms for guests in need of animal-tolerant accommodation. For more information visit: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/olbprqq-the-local-porto-rotondo/
4* Room Mate Filippo, Rome
This designer hotel is conveniently located near Piazza di Spagna, Trevi Fountain, and other various Roman tourist attractions. Various amenities such as a workout area, lounge, and free Wi-Fi make guests' stay even more enjoyable. For more information visit: https://room-matehotels.com/gb/filippo/
5* Hotel Laqua By The Lake, Lake Orta, Piedmont
Overlooking the Gulf of Sorrento, this hotel features unparalleled views of the coastline. It also offers access to their on-site wellness area, as well as three unique experience packages. For more information visit: https://laquaresorts.it/sea/en/
Hotels Opened in 2020:
5* Capri Palace Hotel, Capri
The Capri Palace offers exquisite views of both Capri and the Naples Gulf. Some highlighted features include an outdoor swimming pool, medical spa facility, boat excursions, and a two Michelin-starred restaurant. For more information visit: https://www.capripalace.com/en/
5* Hotel Palazzo Touring Club, Milan
Once the headquarters of the Touring Club Italiano, this hotel's building has a fascinating history. It is also a fantastic location for tourists, as it is only a five minute walk from Milan's iconic Duomo, and a fifteen minute walk to Il Teatro alla Scala. For more information visit: https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-collection-milan-palazzo-touring-club
5* Villa Igiea Di Rocco Forte, Palermo
This seaside hotel's 78 rooms and 22 suites neighbour exciting destinations such as Castelbuono, Segata, and Monreale. On-site features include tennis courts, outdoor yoga, the Alicetta Pool Bar, and Villa Igiea Spa. For more information visit: www.roccofortehotels.com
Casa Di Langa, Cerreto Langhe, Piedmont
This Northern-Italian luxury eco-resort offers unique experiences such as its exclusive wine academy and cooking school. It also features a spa, truffle hunting excursions, live music, and 42 hectares of land for guests to enjoy. For more information visit: https://www.casadilanga.com/
The Sense Experience Resort, Follonica, Tuscany
A luxury eco-resort, this hotel includes a private beach, swimming pool, and neighbouring pine forest on the Maremma coast. Wellness features such as yoga sessions and cooking courses are also available on-site. For more information visit: https://www.thesenseresort.it/en/
