Travel Notes Blog

There are certain places in the world that feel cinematic the moment you arrive. Light dances differently. Colours seem richer. Landscapes unfold with a quiet sense of drama. Across Italy, Greece and Corsica, the Mediterranean has provided the setting for some of the most iconic films and television series ever made, and it continues to captivate directors, actors and travellers alike. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the turquoise waters of Skopelos, from Sicily’s Baroque towns to the rugged coastline of Corsica, these are destinations that belong on the big screen. Yet they are far more than film sets. They are living, breathing places of extraordinary beauty, ideal for a picture-perfect Mediterranean holiday. Below, explore the most famous Mediterranean filming locations and discover how you can step into the scene yourself.

There’s something about a villa that invites romance. Perhaps it’s the privacy, the sense of having the world, or at least a very beautiful corner of it, entirely to yourselves. Or maybe it’s the way time seems to slow when there’s no shared corridors, no schedules beyond your own, and no rush for the pool loungers. This Valentine’s Day, we’re celebrating the love stories that have unfolded across our villas: proposals and vow renewals, milestone anniversaries and quiet moments shared over long dinners under the stars. These are stories shaped by place but defined by people, and by the magic that happens when everything feels just right.

The Mediterranean is a place of light, colour and centuries-old traditions, where every town and village has its own story to tell. From lively local festivals and religious celebrations to seasonal feasts, music events and time-honoured rituals, the cultural calendar here is rich and varied — reflecting the deep histories, seasonal rhythms and diverse influences of the region. Whether it’s stepping into a sun-soaked Greek panigyri, witnessing an extraordinary feast day in Sicily or joining a local celebration along the Italian coast, Mediterranean cultural events offer authentic, unforgettable experiences that bring communities together and invite travellers to share in their spirit and joy. Below you’ll find guides to the main events across different parts of the Mediterranean — from mainland Greece and the Cyclades to Corsica, Sicily, Puglia and Tuscany — so you can discover the celebrations that bring each destination to life.

With its rolling hills, glorious coastline, and timeless, art-filled cities and towns, Tuscany is an irresistible destination in so many ways. To experience the region at its most soulful, we recommend joining in with the locals as they celebrate their traditions, their folklore and their music. There are so many events and festivals going on throughout the year that you’ll always be able to experience what really make Tuscans tick. This 2026 Tuscany events calendar gives an idea of the wealth of magical moments that can transform a great holiday into one that will linger long in the memory.

The Mediterranean is a place of light, colour and centuries-old traditions, where every town and village has its own story to tell. From lively local festivals and religious celebrations to seasonal feasts, music events and time-honoured rituals, the cultural calendar here is rich and varied — reflecting the deep histories, seasonal rhythms and diverse influences of the region. Whether it’s stepping into a sun-soaked Greek panigyri, witnessing an extraordinary feast day in Sicily or joining a local celebration along the Italian coast, Mediterranean cultural events offer authentic, unforgettable experiences that bring communities together and invite travellers to share in their spirit and joy. Below you’ll find guides to the main events across different parts of the Mediterranean — from mainland Greece and the Cyclades to Corsica, Sicily, Puglia and Tuscany — so you can discover the celebrations that bring each destination to life.

With its rolling hills, glorious coastline, and timeless, art-filled cities and towns, Tuscany is an irresistible destination in so many ways. To experience the region at its most soulful, we recommend joining in with the locals as they celebrate their traditions, their folklore and their music. There are so many events and festivals going on throughout the year that you’ll always be able to experience what really make Tuscans tick. This 2026 Tuscany events calendar gives an idea of the wealth of magical moments that can transform a great holiday into one that will linger long in the memory.

Mainland Greece rewards those who travel beyond the obvious. Ancient landscapes, living traditions and quietly beautiful coastlines define regions such as Evia, Corinth and Porto Heli, where days are shaped by the sea, village life and long meals under the sun. If you would like to begin your holiday with a short cultural stay in Athens, the capital’s spring and summer events offer a stimulating contrast, an ideal prelude before continuing your journey to the calmer pace of a Thinking Traveller villa.

Planning a villa holiday in the Ionian Islands? From Corfu’s Venetian elegance to the tranquil harbours of Paxos and Meganissi, these islands offer far more than beautiful beaches. Throughout the year, local festivals and events bring each destination to life with music, food, ritual and celebration. This guide highlights the best events in the Ionian Islands in 2026, focusing on Corfu, Kefalonia, Lefkada, Zakynthos, Paxos, Antipaxos, Meganissi and Kastos. These are the moments that reveal the region’s character and make an Ionian holiday truly memorable.

There are certain places in the world that feel cinematic the moment you arrive. Light dances differently. Colours seem richer. Landscapes unfold with a quiet sense of drama. Across Italy, Greece and Corsica, the Mediterranean has provided the setting for some of the most iconic films and television series ever made, and it continues to captivate directors, actors and travellers alike. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the turquoise waters of Skopelos, from Sicily’s Baroque towns to the rugged coastline of Corsica, these are destinations that belong on the big screen. Yet they are far more than film sets. They are living, breathing places of extraordinary beauty, ideal for a picture-perfect Mediterranean holiday. Below, explore the most famous Mediterranean filming locations and discover how you can step into the scene yourself.

There’s something about a villa that invites romance. Perhaps it’s the privacy, the sense of having the world, or at least a very beautiful corner of it, entirely to yourselves. Or maybe it’s the way time seems to slow when there’s no shared corridors, no schedules beyond your own, and no rush for the pool loungers. This Valentine’s Day, we’re celebrating the love stories that have unfolded across our villas: proposals and vow renewals, milestone anniversaries and quiet moments shared over long dinners under the stars. These are stories shaped by place but defined by people, and by the magic that happens when everything feels just right.

Sicily isn't just Italy's largest island, it's a continent in miniature. Stretching across 25,711 square kilometres, this Mediterranean gem rewards strategic planning when selecting accommodation. Whether you're drawn to ancient temples overlooking azure seas, volcanic landscapes dotted with vineyards, or pristine nature reserves where flamingos nest, your choice of where to stay fundamentally shapes your Sicilian experience.

A wellbeing holiday is a transformative travel experience specifically designed to enhance your physical, mental and emotional health. Unlike traditional holidays focused on sightseeing or relaxation alone, wellbeing holidays provide a structured environment where you can focus entirely on self-care, personal growth and holistic wellness.

Italy stands as the world's largest wine producer, crafting approximately 50.3 million hectolitres annually—nearly 20% of global wine production. With over 1.73 million acres under vine cultivation spread across all 20 administrative regions, Italy's viticultural landscape is as diverse as it is extraordinary. What truly distinguishes Italian wine, however, is the country's staggering genetic treasure: over 2,000 indigenous grape varieties, of which approximately 400 are in commercial production. This represents more native varieties than France, Spain, and Greece combined.

Europe is steeped in history, peppered with historic sites that date back centuries. Holidaying there offers the chance to experience this history for yourself — and there are few better or more picturesque places to see history than in a castle.

Sicily boasts multiple world heritage sites, immense coasts and an active volcano. See our top five wonders of Sicily and explore our exceptional Sicilian villas.

Learn more about the ways we are embracing a more sustainable future for luxury travel in Sicily, by supporting projects from the Sicily Environment Fund, as part of the Conservation Collective.

Discover Casa di Macine, a luxurious Corsican villa blending tradition and modernity. Owner Alain Antonelli, a Corsican native and Miami-based music producer, shares his journey of creating this serene retreat nestled in the mountains.

We're delighted to announce our B Corp status - here's how the certification works and why we have always taken a more thoughtful approach to luxury travel.

Find out how The Thinking Traveller’s eco initiatives promote wildlife conservation, eco friendly initiatives and ecotourism in this conservation review.

Explore the benefits of luxury villa rentals vs. hotel stays, focusing on privacy, space, and personalised touches for your next getaway.