Beach in Sicily, Italy / photo by admin

1. Ostia

Ostia is about thirty minutes from Rome by train, and is one of the most popular summer day trips for Roman citizens. Three miles of golden sand is bordered by the Paolo Toscanelli boulevard; a great place for you to stroll down, popping into the cafes and restaurants for bite to eat. The beautiful beach is divided up into public and private areas- you can access the private for a fee; these beaches are usually less crowded with better facilities. If you’re tired of the sun, check out the Roman ruins or the historic port of Ostia Antica.

2. Nettuno

Slightly further from Rome is the bay of Nettuno. Easily accessible on foot, the sea esplanade leads to modern Nettuno; whereas the older ‘Il Borgo’ part is located near the town centre. Il Borgo contains some of the Amalfi coast’s best restaurants, with a beautiful view over the port area. Live music and other activities take place over the summer on the esplanade and the marina. The best small beach is the Spiaggia le Sirene.

3. Santa Marinella

It’s just a quick train ride from the Rome Termini station, (only 45 minutes) to this picturesque beach commune. The clean Mediterranean sand and crystal waters attract many locals, so this isn’t the place to go if you’re looking for privacy and seclusion! Adding to the allure, one of Italy’s most famous seafood restaurants – L’Acqua Marina – is located only ten minutes away.

4. Sperlonga

When you need a break from the history, consider Sperlonga. Although it’s two and a half hours from Rome, the journey is definitely worth it when you see the stunning pale sandy crescent and open ocean view. The beach is well-developed, with all facilities within easy reach; and the local eateries serve everything from fish and chips to authentic Italian cuisine. Some places will even deliver food direct to your beach towel!

5. Santa Severa

With the officially-recognized cleanest waters around Rome, this beach is easy to get to from Rome by bus or train. In addition to the pristine sand, there’s a nature reserve located on a nearby headland; as well as a naturally formed cave system once used as a hiding place by slaves.

Whether you’re renting one of the Rome apartments or staying in an Amalfi coastline villa; visiting a local beach is the perfect way to finish off your summer vacation. Make sure you leave early to grab that prime spot on the sand!

Next time you are heading over to Europe, why not rent one of the apartments in Rome from Worldwide Accom.There are many within the city centre, close to the metro stops as well, meaning you can easily hop on the metro to all the attractions or even to the beach.

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EL Real Alcázar de Sevilla, Spain / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Dani Armengol Garreta

Once you set a foot in Seville you will automatically fall in love with the general atmosphere, the beautiful surroundings and the astonishing architecture. The centre of town consists out of tiny cobblestoned paths surrounded by small housed with thick wooden doors that provide Seville with an authentic, rustic atmosphere. You will smell the sweet scent of orange blossom and jasmine everywhere. Leave your car at home and rent a bicycle instead to really soak up the relaxed and calm atmosphere of such a big city.

Food

Andalucía is famous for its home cooked food including Solomillo en Ajo (braised pork), Huevos a la Flamenco (fried eggs with chorizo) and stuffed artichokes. For the best restaurants in town you should head to the Jewish quarter, Barrio de Santa Cruz. Walk to the Plaza Alfalfa for dining in the sun.

Sights

Visit the Royal Palace and be amazed by the beautiful architecture from the outside as well as the inside. On the outside you will clearly see the fusion of Spanish Christian gothic and Moorish Islamic design which will continue on the inside. Inside you will find mosaic tiled corridors, courtyards, arcaded walks and paradise-like gardens. Even if you usually don’t like to visit historical attractions, make an exception for EL Real Alcázar de Sevilla. This palace is more than a lesson in history, it is a place of inspiration.

The cathedral in Seville is supposedly the largest cathedral in whole of Europe and houses the remains of Christopher Columbus.

Cathedral in Seville, Spain / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Frank Kovalchek

Another architectural beauty is the Museo de Bellas Artes. The exterior design of the museum of fine arts is one to admire but so are the exhibitions, installations and collections of the museum.  You will find anything from the 17th century up until now. It is also a great place to hide away from the harsh sun during summer.

To do

Attend a traditional flamenco show in one of the many theatres or open-air auditoriums and get seduced by the music, the dresses and the sound of castanets.  Visit one of the many great festivals known to Seville such as the Vela de Santa Ana. This annual festival is one of the greatest festivals of all summer and is held to honour Saint Anne. Festivities include plank walking contests, live music and the joy of good food and wine.

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