Exploring Italy’s Hidden Treasure: Bethlehem’s Ancient Caves and Tranquil Atmosphere Posted on February 28, 2024July 12, 2024 By Travelworldwide Israel and Palestine are hot topics right now, but one thing we can all agree on is that Bethlehem is a fascinating place to visit, no matter your beliefs. However, if you want to avoid the complexities of the Middle East, you can explore the “Bethlehem of Italy” without leaving Europe. Italy is a top tourist destination in Europe, but it often comes with the downside of overwhelming crowds. Fortunately, there are still hidden gems waiting to be discovered. One such gem is the ancient city of Matera, which is just as beautiful and historically rich as Rome, Venice, and Florence. Matera is often overlooked, which is surprising given its incredible history and stunning architecture. While Rome and Florence are amazing, they have become quite Americanized, with familiar chains like Starbucks popping up. Matera, on the other hand, offers a more authentic Italian experience. You can enjoy a perfect cup of coffee at a charming sidewalk café, like Gahvè Coffee & Drink, without the high prices of Starbucks. Matera may not have the Colosseum or Vatican City, but it boasts ancient caves where artifacts from the Early Neolithic period have been found. These caves are now a World Heritage Site, offering both historical intrigue and breathtaking views of the city. Matera deserves to be mentioned alongside Italy’s most famous historical sites like the Roman Colosseum and the Sistine Chapel. Despite its rich history, Matera remains relatively unknown, which means you can explore without the crowds that flock to places like Pisa. The city is home to some of the earliest human settlements, yet it remains a hidden treasure. For a unique stay, you can book an Airbnb in one of Matera’s cave homes. These homes have been modernized with all the amenities you need while still giving you a taste of the city’s unique history. Matera may be small, with a population of around 60,000, but it offers a lively atmosphere and fantastic cuisine. Be sure to try the highly-rated AltraPizza and enjoy the stunning views while you dine. Don’t miss the bustling street markets near Piazza V Veneto for fresh baked goods and street food. Lastly, a visit to Matera wouldn’t be complete without seeing the incredible Church of Purgatory. While it may not be as famous as the Sistine Chapel, it will leave you wondering why Matera isn’t more popular. In fact, Matera was named the European Capital of Culture in 2019, highlighting its cultural significance. Blog
Blog Embark on a Scenic Drive Through the Mediterranean! Posted on February 7, 2024July 12, 2024 If you’ve ever vacationed in Europe, chances are you’ve visited the Mediterranean Coast. Stretching from Spain’s southern coast to sunny Cyprus, this coastline includes some of Europe’s most stunning areas. But can you truly appreciate its beauty by visiting just one beach at a time? With its dazzling shoreline roads… Read More
Blog EXPLORING THE ARCHITECTURAL WONDERS OF THE BASILICA OF EUPHRASIUS IN POREČ, CROATIA Posted on April 16, 2024July 12, 2024 If you love exploring historic monuments and beautiful churches in Croatia, you’ll definitely enjoy visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Basilica of Euphrasius. We had the chance to visit this stunning site during our summer stay near Poreč in the Istria province. The Basilica is located in the pedestrian-friendly… Read More
Blog Savoring the Mediterranean: Must-Try Culinary Delights on Your Cruise and Their Best Locations Posted on June 3, 2024July 12, 2024 The Mediterranean’s flavors are shaped by its history and landscape, and a cruise offers the perfect opportunity to sample a variety of local specialties. On our cruise with Titan Travel, we discovered that each Mediterranean island we visited had its own unique dishes to offer. While the food on board… Read More