Travel Guide: Italy
Come with us to our happy place.
We’ll get straight to the point: We’re ready for a holiday… in Italy. If you are nodding in agreement, then you’re in the right place. Now’s the time to start dreaming—and planning. (And if you’re not on board just yet, let’s chat again after you finish reading this post.)
Last summer, our team took a little Italian adventure—we stopped in Milan, Rome, and Capri—before the launch of SuperSuede™ Blush (she has Italian roots). We squeezed in every local spot (our favorites are below), stayed in a stunning, restored palace, and indulged in gelato, pasta, pizza… you name it. And we just… marveled. There’s something about Italy—the history, the warmth of the people, the elegance—that keeps us coming back.
For some of us, Italy’s even more than a vacation destination—it’s home, with family to visit. And for the rest of us, it’s become the ultimate getaway where we can soak up la dolce vita.
So grab a cappuccino (or an espresso if it’s after lunch) and scroll for our go-to spots, as we take you from the north all the way down the coast.
A BREATH OF FRESH AIR
“It’s pretty hard to top this as your après ski or après hike...” —Gloria Zingales, editor, senior manager
THE DOLOMITES
A breathtaking mountain range, renowned for their dramatic peaks.
Wellness + Relaxation: QC Terme Spa
The best place to soothe sore muscles (after skiing or hiking) in Val di Fassa.
Nature + Outdoors: Catinaccio Mountains (near Carezza)
“One hike can take you from The Lord of the Rings-looking scenery to magical fairy forests to peaks that are so elevated you look down at the clouds. Skiing here in the winter is also incredible and friendly for all levels.” —Zingales
PADOVA
A historic city, known for its medieval architecture.
Food + Drink: Pizzeria Orsucci
“This hole-in-the-wall pizza spot has been open since 1922 and makes my favorite pizza in the entire world. Bar none.” —Zingales.
Ex Foro
Enjoy an aperitivo here while taking in the most spectacular view of Europe's largest piazza: Prato della Valle.
THE FASHION CAPITAL
MILAN
Where sleek modern style mixes effortlessly with classic elegance, all set against a buzzing city backdrop.
Stay: Grand Hotel et de Milan
A timelessly chic, restored palace from the 1880s in the heart of the fashion district.
Food + Drink: Bar Basso, Bistrot Giacomo
Start with aperitivo at Bar Basso (where the Negroni Sbagliato was born), then indulge in handmade pasta at the charming Bistrot Giacomo.
Shopping: Marchesi 1824
Artisanal pastries & chocolates from a historic patisserie, open since 1824.
Art + Culture: Villa Necchi
An architectural gem and historic residence designed by Piero Portaluppi.
UNDER THE TUSCAN SUN
TUSCANY
A region of rolling hills, quaint villages, and exquisite food and wine.
Stay: Castello di Vicarello
“This is my favorite place in Italy. There’s a stunning garden rooftop and I have the best memories of having lunch with friends there.” —Laney Crowell, founder and CEO
Food + Drink: Fattoria Poggio Alloro
“We took a horseback ride through this family vineyard and they served us homemade pastas and cheeses, plus we did a wine tasting. We went in October for our anniversary and it was perfect weather—sunny and 75 degrees.” —Caroline Frey, executive assistant
THE BIG CITY
ROME
A wonder of the world where every cobblestone street and cozy café tells a story.
Stay: Hotel Locarno
Vintage glamour meets Art Nouveau inspiration—a favorite spot to stay in Rome.
Food + Drink: Ciampini
Perfect for grabbing a bite near Piazza di Spagna, and don't skip the famous hazelnut gelato.
Shopping: Schostals Rome
Tailored, classic pajama sets for a chic souvenir.
Art + Culture: Villa Medici
A must-visit 16th-century Italian Mannerist villa framed by the exquisite Borghese gardens.
BY THE SEA
NERANO
A coastal gem with pristine beaches and exquisite cuisine.
Food + Drink: Lo Scoglio
“From Nerano, a tiny fishing village along the Amalfi Coast, you can take a water taxi to a bunch of restaurants, and Lo Scoglio was my favorite, along with Conca Del Sogno. All of the pasta is amazing but they are known for spaghetti alla Nerano, made with zucchini and local provolone cheese.” —Gabie Deitos, senior marketing manager
POSITANO
A hillside paradise overlooking the shimmering sea.
Food + Drink: Da Adolfo
Located on Laurito Beach, this charming seaside restaurant has been welcoming guests since 1966. If you go for lunch, there is a very good chance you will find yourself lost in the bliss of it all three (or even four) hours later. Fresh fish, local wines, homemade pastas, and the sound of the waves make time stop.
“There’s nothing like driving along the Amalfi Coast from Sorrento to Ravello, stopping into all the shops just to see what local Murano glass-makers are selling.” — Lauren Lauigan, director of community
ISLAND TIME
CAPRI
Stunning views, enchanting streets, and laid-back luxury make you never want to leave.
Stay: Hotel Caesar Augustus
An ancient cliff’s edge villa transformed into a luxury hotel, famously photographed by Slim Aarons in the 1950s.
Food + Drink: Le Grottelle
A spritz with a view—a perfect al fresco lunch overlooking the sea, away from the crowds.
Shopping: Via Camerelle
Capri’s best shopping street, with a mix of luxury boutiques and local treasures.
Art + Culture: Casa Malaparte
Accessible only by boat, an iconic example of Italian modern design and the setting for Godard's 1963 film, 'Contempt' (Le Mépris).
ISCHIA
A serene island with volcanic beaches, steaming thermal baths, and a whole lot of Mediterranean charm.
Stay: Mezzatorre
“Ischia is a more chill Capri, if you ask me, known for its beaches and thermal hot springs. And Mezzatore is one gorgeous place to stay.” — Deitos
SICILY
Ancient ruins, sweeping coastlines, and vibrant culture paint a picture of Mediterranean life at its finest.
Nature + Outdoors: Vasca della Regina
Go for a dip in these crystal-blue waters and soak up the sun (with sunscreen on, of course). Zingales also suggests a boat tour around the Egadi Islands.
Food + Drink: Ristorante Da Vittoria in Porto Palo
Spaghetti aglio e olio (see below) is a highlight on the menu.
“Rent a car and drive around the entire island; every corner is beautiful.” —Zingales.
Ready to plan your Italian summer getaway? Let us know where you're headed in the comments below!
Ciao,
Xoxo
Team Saie
Ohhh please I really want a vacation 😅 one day I’ll make it for sure🫶🏻
AHH yes please!! Love these so much!! Hope to go on a brand trip there with yall one day! <3