Secret Italy. Ode to neighborhood bars.

In recent years, we have seen squares and streets of some of the most beautiful Italian spots transformed into an endless concert arenas. They call it ‘movida.’ And believe me, there is nothing wrong in gathering with friends and acquaintances to have a glass of wine or an Aperol Spritz and enjoy the freshness of the Italian summer. Especially this summer that promises to be hotter than usual.

However, I invite you to walk during the day in the streets of your favorite city, practically deserted, shutters down and a deafening silence. Return there late at night, and I’m sure you will hardly recognize the same place. People sitting everywhere, drinking, singing, and improvising TikTocks for the pleasure of being together. Again, there is nothing wrong in this. But as you well know, here at TheKnotInItaly, we are proud to be Italians and we love our country, and above all, Secret Italy.

That place that is the reason why so many people decide to visit it, and many choose it as the destination for their wedding. It’s the Italy we like, and we would like it to be left untouched. The one of neighborhood or village bars, where there is no wifi. Where you can hardly make a phone call, where coffee is still prepared with a skillfully mixed blend of powders, and where there is no lactose-free milk or soy cappuccino. Where in the morning when you walk outside, you still find wise minds discussing politics, football, or small local misadventures. The one that makes you breathe the slow sense of life and the most you can hear are the news from a crackling radio.

. No deafening music, no TikTocks. A simple, frothy cappuccino, a ‘maritozzo’ with cream, and a newspaper, maybe even from the day before. An Italy that seems still and invites you to stop and breathe. Have you ever thought about why you chose to visit or celebrate your wedding there? For its authenticity. We tell you. And not for improbable and improvised street parties or endless festivities. You chose it for its slow pace.

This post and these photos from our archive are dedicated to the village bars in the hope that they remain that outpost of tranquility, peace, and authenticity that we love so much. Do you want to discover our Secret Italy? Well, you just have to contact us and discover our new itineraries. We do not promise that they will be ready in one click. Not even in two or three. Our itineraries of Secret Italy are designed for those who choose a unique experience. In one word. SECRET.