5 Must-Try Restaurants in Positano
Planning a trip to the stunning and incomparable Positano this summer? During your trip, which will be full of seaside hikes, yacht outings, and sunset toasts of Aperol spritz, you’ll likely work up quite the appetite! Luckily, Positano offers plenty of delicious dining options.
Our Enchanted Travel agent and Italy specialist Graci Brouillette names these five restaurants as her favorites after a visit to Positano:
1. Chez Black – Via del Brigantino 19
This beachfront, nautical-themed eatery (complete with waiters wearing sailor uniforms) boasts an unbeatable location right on the Spiaggia Grande. Graci describes Chez Black as “always lively” and ordered the black squid ink pasta. Fun fact: Denzel Washington is a regular visitor. In fact, he was the best man at owner Salvator Russo’s son’s wedding!
2. Franco’s Bar – located within Le Sirenuse Hotel
This bar is located at the world’s most gorgeous hotels, Le Sirenuse. It is built on top of a former car park adjacent to the resort and is just as incredible as you would expect. Graci suggests taking in the stunning atmosphere for drinks during the sunset for incredible views.
3. Da Vincenzo – Viale Pasitea, 172/178
This spot is a local favorite and great for either lunch or dinner. We recommend reservations if you’re going for dinner. You should be able to walk-in for a table during lunch hours. The menu seafood-heavy, with dishes ranging from grilled octopus skewers to fresh, seasonal pastas.
4. The Brasserie – located within Covo Dei Saraceni Hotel
The Brasserie is known for the best pizza in the area, serving woodfired Naples-style pies. Graci suggest trying the giant halved lemon filled with lemon sorbet, or taking a slice of pizza and a Peroni to go for the nearby beach!
5. La Sponda (Michelin Star) – located within Le Sirenuse Hotel
Dinner here is a splurge, but worth every penny considering you’ll be accompanied by live music and 400 candles. La Sponda serves cuisine in the Mediterranean tradition – with fresh, local ingredients set against the sparkling sea. In addition, it has one of the best views in all of Positano.
Call us today to book your getaway to the Amalfi Coast with the help of one of our Italy specialists. You can reach us 6 days a week at 402-281-3022.
Planning (or dreaming about) an Italian getaway? Get the most out of a short Italian trip by seeing these 12 sites in Rome, Florence, and Venice.
Rome
Rome is often described as timeless, fascinating, magical, and romantic. It is rich in history but also a very modern city, and home to a plethora of amazing architecture. This combination of old and new is what makes Rome so unique. It is most people’s entry point into Italy as most Italy flights from overseas fly into Rome Fiumicino Airport. First time Italy visitors will want to spend at least a couple of days here. Don’t leave Rome without seeing these five sites:
1. The Trevi Fountain
The huge and very famous Trevi Fountain takes up an entire side of the Palazzo Poli with mythical figures and wild horses. The tradition is to toss a coin into the water using the right hand over the right shoulder, which is supposed to ensure that you’ll return to Rome.
2. The Colosseum
The Colosseum is a 50k-seat “gladiatorial” arena built in AD 50. It was built to hold games involving gladiators fighting wild animals or – more gruesomely – each other. The Colosseum is the second biggest arena in Rome (second to Circo Massimo which could hold up to 250k people).
3. St. Peter’s Basilica
Easily Italy’s largest, richest, and most spectacular basilica, St. Peter’s Basilica is also the world’s largest church. The lavish interior is home to many amazing works of art including Michelangelo’s Pieta, and Bernini’s 29-m high baldachin over the papal altar, and is also the burial site of Saint Peter and the first Pope. Expect long lines and remember the strict dress code (no shorts, mini skirts, or bare shoulders).
4. The Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel is the official residence of the Pope in Vatican City. It is also the site of the Papal Conclave, the process for selecting a new pope. This chapel is famous for the frescos that decorate the interior, most particularly the ceiling artwork and Michelangelo’s The Last Judgment.
5. The Pantheon
The Pantheon is a 2000-year-old temple, now a church, known for its humongous size and awe-inspiring dome. Known as the most well-preserved of Rome’s ancient monuments, it has stood since approximately AD 125. It is considered the ancient Romans’ greatest architectural achievement.
Florence
Anyone making a trip to Italy must make time to visit the charming city of Florence after a site-seeing-filled trip to Rome. Full of Renaissance architecture, monuments, statues, art galleries, and museums, Florence is also the main gateway for exploring Tuscany. Your travel agent at Enchanted Travel can help you book a Tuscany wine tour during your stay in Florence! Don’t miss these sites either:
1. Il Duomo (Basilica of Santa Maria)
Il Duomo is a gothic cathedral with a beautiful marble facade in shades of pink, green, and white. The Duomo complex features the Duomo, the Baptistery and Giotto’s Campanile. A tour of the dome will take you to see the famous frescoes.
2. Ponte Vecchio Bridge
Ponte Vecchio is one of the most famous bridges in the world and the only bridge in Florence which was not destroyed by the Germans during WWII (supposedly because Hitler liked it!). It arches picturesquely over the Arno River. Once occupied by butchers shops, it is now home to many jewellery and souvenir shops and is a great place to spend a casual afternoon soaking up the Italian charm of the city.
3. Piazza Della Signoria
Florence’s most famous square is the Piazza Della Signoria, which sits in front of the Palazzo Vecchio. The piazza has become the main meeting point for tourists and locals in the city of Florence. Here you will find several statues by famous Florentine artists including a copy of Michelangelo’s David (the original is in the Accademia).
Venice
Next on our Italian city tour is Venice, a notoriously romantic city with many must-see attractions. The vibe in Venice is stress-free and relaxed. The authentic beauty of the city lies in its intricate alleys, bridges, canals, and its elegant architecture. And of course it is well-known for being built on water. In fact, it’s main street is the Grand Canal.
1. St. Mark’s Basilica
Multiple beautiful domes and over 800 square meters of luminous mosaics make St. Mark’s Basilica an unforgettable site. It was founded in the 9th century to house the corpse of Saint Mark after it was smuggled out of Egypt in barrel of pork fat. Don’t miss the view from the top of the Campanile, a bell tower constructed in the early 20th century.
2. The Rialto Bridge
Long ago, the Rialto Bridge was the only way to cross the Grand Canal. Built entirely of marble and considered an engineering marvel, visitors to the city must take a stroll through the cheap shops inside and be sure to walk along the canal as well for a full view of the bridge’s exterior.
3. San Giorgio Maggiore
The island of San Giorgio Maggiore sits opposite St. Mark’s Square and offers breathtaking views. It is home of Palladian church which contains Tintoretto’s “Last Supper”.
4. The Bridge of Sighs
Lastly, the Bridge of Sighs connects Doge’s Palace to it’s dungeons. It was used to transport prisoners from the courtroom to the prisons and legend has it that it is named for the sighs prisoners would utter as they got their last glimpse of the outside world before being imprisoned. It is a quite popular as well as a very recognizable photo op spot.
To hear about our 10-Day, 3 City Italy packages, call us at 402-281-3022 and ask to speak to one of our Italy specialists!
Italy is a country known for stunning architecture, world-famous art, delicious cuisine and incredible wine. This destination is at the top of the bucket list for many, and if it’s not on yours then these photos will surely change that!
1. Stunning city views
You can’t beat the skyline views in Florence. The orange rooftops create a gorgeous backdrop for photos from above.
2. Hidden gems off back-alley streets
Rome is one of the most popular Italian cities for tourists, and for good reason! It is the perfect place to walk the streets and get a little lost. You’ll wind up finding the best photo opportunities this way, such as the one pictured above.
3. Picturesque castles
There is no shortage of castles in Italy. This one in Bologna, Italy is exceptionally gorgeous.
4. Gorgeous mountains
Santa Maddalena village, pictured above, has absolutely magical views of the Dolomites mountain range.
5. Luxurious lake towns
There are many stunning lake views throughout Italy. Lake Como is probably the most well known, thanks in part to George and Amal Clooney owning a home there! And for obvious other reasons, such as how gorgeous the views are, as you can see in the above photo.
6. Pasta!
Some people come to Italy for the food alone – most notably, for the best pasta on the planet.
7. Off-the-beaten-path cities
Tiny towns like Verona, pictured above, will transport you to vintage Italy. Here you’ll find picturesque cobblestone streets and hidden cafes with amazing espresso and gelato.
8. Vino in the most amazing setting
There is no better place to sample delicious wine than in Tuscany. Book a wine tour or stay in a boutique hotel on its own vineyard.
9. Ruins that will enchant every history buff
The Colosseum isn’t the only ancient ruin that you must see during your stay in Italy. The ruins of the Ancient Greek Theater in Taormina, Sicily is pictured above, and ruins like this are scattered throughout the country of Italy.
10. Unique monuments
The Leaning Tower of Pisa, pictured above, is unlike any other monument you will find. Take the iconic photo holding up the structure for your Instagram feed.
11. Gondola rides
Venice is a city built on water, so if you visit you must enjoy a gondola ride through the canals. In fact, it is one of the quickest and easiest ways to get around here!
Call Enchanted Travel today at 402-281-3022 to talk to one of our Italy specialists!
Our owners Lori and Kem recently returned from the trip of a lifetime, spending two weeks in Italy, Montenegro, Greece, and Croatia. Their favorite stop of the trip was their last one: Dubrovnik, Croatia. Check out our “Photo of the Week” feature on Dubrovnik for more details on what they loved about the charming city. They traveled with three other couples, and spent much of their time exploring, eating, and taking in what these beautiful destinations have to offer. Read below for where they stayed, which restaurants they tried, and more.
Part 1: Italy: Tuscany, Cinque Terre, & Venice
Tuscany
Kem and Lori began their trip in Florence with one other couple. They made plans to meet up with the rest of their group in Venice a few days later. The other two couples decided to explore Rome, Naples, and the Amalfi Coast. Florence is a city full of Renaissance architecture, monuments, statues, art galleries, and museums. Beyond the art and history scene, you’ll find amazing restaurants and quirky shops. While there, the group explored the piazza del Duomo. “The Dome” is a symbol of Florence and offers amazing panoramic views of the city from the top.
The group also spent some time in the Galleria dell’Accademia, home to Michelangelo’s infamous marble David.
The group’s favorite restaurant in Florence was Buca San Giovanni, which serves authentic Tuscan food in the heart of Florence’s historical district.
They stayed two nights at the Grand Hotel Baglioni, which is just blocks from the Duomo and other must-see sites. In addition, it is very centrally located: it is close to the train station which makes it very convenient for travel to and from many other cities and sites in Italy.
Just over an hour’s drive from Florence, the group stopped in Siena to see the Siena Cathedral. Then it was on to Chianti, which is home to the rolling hills and vineyards that you’ll associate with Tuscany.
The group spent a day at the Poggio Amorelli estate and winery. Here they had a guided tour through the vineyards, the winery and cellar, then it was time for wine tasting! The tasting included red and white wines grown entirely on the estate, and was accompanied by Tuscan salami and aged cheeses.
The final stop in Tuscany was in San Gimignano, where the group took in the history, medieval streetscapes, and enchanting rural setting.
Cinque Terre
Next stop was Cinque Terre. The five towns that make up Cinque Terre are recognizable in pictures with their multi-colored buildings built right into the cliffs overlooking the sea. They stayed in Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the five towns. Monterosso has a beautiful beach and tons of amazing restaurants. While here, they hiked from Monterosso to Vernazza. You can hike between all of the villages in order to see all five if you wish! You could also take a boat ride between the towns, or a very quick train.
Venice
The whole group met up in Venice, where they spent two nights before boarding the Norwegian Star.
Here they stayed at the Hotel Principe directly on the Grand Canal and about a block from the train.
Their favorite restaurant in Venice was Al Buso, located directly beneath and adjacent to Rialto Bridge. The location is only half of the allure, as the food is top notch as well.
While there, they spent time at St. Mark’s Square, home to St. Mark’s Basilica which is recognizable from its beautiful dome. They also walked over the Rialto Bridge, where they took time to explore the shops and get the best view of the city.
Part 2: Norwegian Star cruising from Venice to Croatia, with stops throughout Greece
Part two of this amazing trip was seven days on the Norwegian Star, cruising from Venice to Dubrovnik. This was their favorite part of the trip, stopping in Montenegro, then throughout Greece, and finally to Dubrovnik.
Montenegro
The first stop on their cruise down the coast of Greece was in Kotor, in the country of Montenegro. This destination has a raw, natural beauty thanks to the picturesque Balkan mountains and glass-like waters of the Bay of Kotor.
Mykonos
Next stop was the fun and lively waterfront town of Mykonos, which is full of great cafes, shops, and views of their famous windmills. There are over 500 beautiful churches and several great beaches. One of the best things to do is wander through the cobblestone streets and stop at one of the many coffee shops or cafes. You should also make time to explore Little Venice.
Santorini
Santorini may be the most photogenic out of all the Greek towns, with the gorgeous white buildings and blue roofs dotting the cliffs that overlook the sea. You’ll find tons of little beaches and cafes to explore, and a great place for hiking. They explored the town of Oia (pronounced ee-ah). Much of the movie Mama Mia was based in Santorini. The dramatically steep cliffs of the island are a result of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in history. The volcano erupted in 1600 B.C., creating what we now call Santorini. Another result of the Minoan Eruption, as it’s called, is that the island of Thira sank to the bottom of the caldera, resulting in what is sometimes referred to as the Lost City of Atlantis. It is a heavily debated topic, but be sure to stop in the underground bookstore called Atlantis.
The bay where the ship anchored was once the highest point of the island and is now 1300 feet deep in some places. It currently measures 32 miles square. The cliffs rise dramatically above the caldera, and the stunning white cliff towns of Fire and Oia are what first greeted the ship when it arrived.
You can take a gondola or donkey, or walk the 600 steps up and down the cliffs to explore the town from your boat. Kem and Lori walked even though they did not recommend that as the donkeys are on the same path and seem to have the right of way. Santorini definitely lives up to the hype as it is beautiful and is best described as “dreamy”
Corfu
In Corfu, the last stop before the final destination of Dubrovnik, the group toured the Castle of Sissi.
Dubrovnik
Finally, the group disembarked the Norwegian Star ship for their final destination: Dubrovnik. They definitely saved the best for last, because Dubrovnik is breathtaking! You may recognize it as the frequent setting for many films and television shows. Most notably, it is the setting for the fictional city of King’s Landing on HBO’s hit show Game of Thrones.
Dubrovnik is known for its famous imperious walls. The imposing walls surround the city and are up to six meters thick in some areas. They have never once been breached by a hostile army. It takes about an hour make the full circuit along the battlements of walls. This hour also gives you time to stop for the stunning panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.
Here they stayed at the Grand Hotel Argentina, which had an amazing location built into the cliffs and directly on the water.
They ate at Buza Bar, which absolutely cannot be missed! The bar is literally built into the cliffs and overlooks the water with stunning views.
To book your own Italian getaway, call us and ask to speak to one of our Europe travel specialists at 402-281-3022.
If you’re heading to Italy for a romantic getaway, be sure to make some time to take your honey to one of these special spots. Take in the glorious sunset at Florence’s Rose Garden below the Piazzale Michelangelo, enjoy a candlelit meal at Grotta Palazzese in Puglia, or pop the question at Juliet’s Balcony in Verona. In addition to romance, these spots have much to do. Read on more details on these enchanting spots throughout Italy.
Grotta Palazzese Restaurant, Polignano a Mare, Puglia
Grotta Palazzese is a restaurant tucked into the limestone of cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea. This is a truly gorgeous place! Most notably, it is known by many as the most romantic restaurant in the world. In fact, the entire city of Polignano is made for lovers, with a stunning white-washed old town and gorgeous turquoise waters. In addition to stunning views, you can expect delicious Italian cuisine and an amazing wine selection.
Alassio, Liguria
If you are a fan of love stories, you need to visit the seaside town of Alassio. The story goes like this: Alassio was founded by the royal daughter of Otto the Great (Adelasia). Adelasia eloped with a servant boy, Aleramo. Adelasia and Aleramo fled the coast, living in poverty for years until Adelasia’s father forgave them. In addition, you’ll find fun little things throughout the city to celebrate the young, rebellious lovers including a local macaroon made of chocolate and hazelnuts, dubbed the “baci di Alassio”.
Lake Orta
Finally, if you’re looking for a lesser-known Italian lake, head to Lake Orta. This peaceful and romantic place is a little known gem, often overlooked for the more popular Lake Como. In fact, we think it is even more romantic than Como! It is a gorgeous place with stunning water views, medieval villages, restaurants and luxury shopping. In addition, don’t miss the stunning San Giulio island, pictured above in the middle of Lake Orta.
Juliet’s Balcony, Verona
As of the site of the greatest love story ever told, Juliet’s Balcony tops our list of the most romantic spots in Italy. Although Shakespeare’s Juliet wasn’t based on a real person and this balcony doesn’t actually have any relation to the story, it is still a romantic place to enjoy with your sweetheart. The house where the balcony is located dates back to the 13th century and the courtyard features a statue of Juliet. Though most everything about the house and the balcony are fiction, the emotions that lure people to it are very real! You’ll find notes scribbled all over the wall beneath the balcony. These notes ask for guidance in love. In addition, legend states that rubbing Juliet’s right breast on the statue will bring you luck in love.
Love Walk, Cinque Terre
We think the entire town of Cinque Terre provides the perfect backdrop for romance. Most notably, however, is Love Walk. This is one of the most popular places in all of Italy to pop the question. With the gorgeous crashing waves just below you, you’ll feel like you died and went to heaven.
Rose Garden, Florence
Florence’s Rose Garden and its enchanting floral display offer one of the most romantic spots in Italy. It is located just steps from Florence’s famed Piazzale Michelangelo, making it the perfect combination of gorgeous Florence city views and stunning flowers.
Bellagio, Lake Como
Romance abounds in Lake Como, with an ideal mix of nature, quaint villages and stunning views. Bellagio is lovingly referred to as the Pearl of Lake Como. It is located between the two south branches of Lake Como, and you may recognize the beautiful villas which overlook the water here. This is one of the best spots in Italy to soak up the romance. Start your visit at the town center for shops, local food and quaint little streets to explore. After that, explore one of the beautiful gardens that Bellagio has to offer. Take a stroll through the Villa Melzi gardens or the gardens that surround luxur hotel Villa Serbelloni.
After exporing, take a short walk on Via Eugenio Vitali which will take you to Punta Spartivento. This is located in the middle of the three branches of Lake Como, and offers a quiet place to relax and take some amazing photos. In addition to Punta Spartivento, Pescallo is another great place to unwind. You can reach this old fishing village by taking a stepped pathway starting from the town hall of Bellagio.
Call us today in order to speak to one of our Italy specialists! You can reach us at 402-390-9291. In addition, you can get started here.
Join us on one of our exclusive Europe group travel opportunities with Collette Tours! Choose from three amazing itineraries: Greece Island Hopper, Best of Italy, or Shades of Ireland. We are hosting Collette at our office on Thursday, October 5, 2023, for more detailed information on all three itineraries. Ask questions, start planning your trip, enjoy a few snacks, and mingle with others who are interested as well! Additionally, our Europe Travel Expert Team will be there to help you get started!
Read on for more details on these three amazing Europe group travel itineraries with Collette Tours!
Greece Island Hopper: April 3 – 13, 2025
Join this 11-day trip through Greece with Collette Tours! Book now and save $100 per person on this Europe group travel package. Highlights include Athens, the Taverna Dinner Show, Acropolis, and the Parthenon. The itinerary also includes Mykonos Old Town, Santorini Island, Oia Village, Ancient Akrotiri, and wine tastings!
This package is available with an optional three-night Istanbul post-tour extension.
Base per person rates: Double $4,949; Single $5,949; Triple $4,899.
This price includes flights from Eppley on April 3, 2025. It also includes 14 meals, nine breakfasts, one lunch, and four dinners. In addition, all of your tour entrance fees, transportation, and hotel accommodations are included.
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE:
Day 1: Overnight Flight
Day 2 & 3: Titania Hotel Athens, Athens
Days 4 – 6: Porto Mykonos, Mykonos
Days 7 – 9: El Greco Hotel, Santorini
Day 10: Titania Hotel Athens, Athens
*On some dates, alternate hotels may be used.
Best of Italy: September 8-19, 2024
Join this 10-day trip through Italy with Collette Tours! Highlights include Venice, a gondola ride, a classical music concert, Po River Delta Wetlands, Republic of San Marino, and the Culinary Arts & Agriculture Vocational School. In addition, the itinerary also Florence, Chiusi Etruscan Museum, Labrynth of Porsenna, Rome, and the Trastevere Food Tour.
Base per person rates: Double $6,649; Single $7,749; Triple $6,599.
This price includes flights from Eppley on September 8, 2024. It also includes 17 meals, 10 breakfasts, two lunches, and five dinners. In addition, all of your tour entrance fees, transportation, and hotel accommodations are included.
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE:
Day 1: Overnight Flight
Days 2, 3: Maison Venezia UNA Esperienze, Venice
Day 4 – 6: Borgo Conde Wine Resort , Forli
Days 7, 8: Grand Hotel Cavour Florence, Florence
Days 9 – 11: Ponte Sisto Hotel, Rome
*On some dates, alternate hotels may be used.
Shades of Ireland: June 27 – July 6, 2024
Join this 10-day trip through Ireland with Collette Tours! Book now and save $450 per person. Highlights include Dublin, Kilkenny, Waterford, Blarney Castle, and Killarney. The itinerary also includes the Ring of Kerry, Limerick, Cliffs of Moher, a Sheepdog Demonstration, Galway, and Castle Stay!
This package is available with a three-night London pre-tour extension. Additionally, it is available with a three-night Edinburgh post-tour extension. You can’t go wrong with either of these two great extension options!
The base per-person rate is $4,399 for a double occupancy. Additionally, single and triple rates are also available. Single $4,999; Triple $4,369.
This price includes flights from Eppley on June 27, 2024. It also includes 13 meals, eight breakfasts, and five dinners. In addition, all of your tour entrance fees, transportation, and hotel accommodations are included.
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE:
Day 1: Overnight Flight
Days 2, 3: Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin, Dublin
Day 4: Granville Hotel, Waterford
Days 5, 6: Killarney Avenue, Killarney
Days 7, 8: The George Hotel Limerick, Limerick
Day 9: Cabra Castle, Kingscourt
*On some dates, alternate hotels may be used
We are excited to welcome you to our office on October 5, 2023, to gather more information about these exclusive Europe group travel itineraries! Lastly, please reach out to our team with any questions. You can reach us at 402-390-9291. In addition, you can RSVP for the event by emailing support@enchantedhoneymoons.com. We look forward to meeting you and getting started!
Enchanted Honeymoons Travel | Family Travel | Europe Group Travel
Call us today to speak to one of our Travel Specialists. You can reach us at 402-390-9291 or get started here. In addition, you can email us at info@enchantedhoneymoons.com.