Category: Travel diaries

By Nadia Hamam

Exactly 10 years ago, Milan welcomed the World Expo with lots of hype. Six months of extravagance enchanted 20 million visitors. What is left over? Tons of treasures! Renovated infrastructure, emerging neighbourhoods, hidden gems… the Lombard capital has been completely transformed. 

Vibrate arty, between foundations and installations 

Held every three years since 1923, the Triennale Milano is a major international event for design and architecture. A series of exhibitions enchants the city.

Another magnet for art lovers is the Fondazione Prada. South of Porta Romana, Rem Koolhaas‘s OMA studio has revamped an old distillery to create…

The former rough suburb has been transformed into SouPra (South of Fondazione Prada), a trendy neighbourhood where the offices of renowned companies such as Bottega Veneta are turning old industrial buildings into modern spaces. All this on the outskirts of the city, with the Vettabbia Park offering a delightful taste of the countryside.  

Immerse yourself in striking, unconventional architecture 

Taste Northern Italy 

Nervetti, liver pâté, gnocco fritto… This is an opportunity not to be missed to discover the true meneghina (Milanese) cuisine, which goes far beyond ossobuco and risotto allo zafferano.

Authentic trattorias serve up classic dishes from Italian cuisine: mondeghili, meatballs fried in butter, cotoletta alla milanese, a thick cut of veal, fried veal brains, ravioli al brasato and cassoeula, a stew made with pork, beef, vegetables, and blood sausage. And for dessert, don’t forget to try torroncino, a hazelnut-flavoured ice cream.

Alongside “home-style” cooking, Michelin-starred restaurants such as BU:R are revisiting the region’s culinary heritage with panache. Want to take home some high-quality local specialties? Head to the stalls of the Peck grocery store and delicatessen to sip a unique cappuccino before packing.  

Ride from one curiosity to another 

To appreciate the unusual side of Milan, put on your trainers or hop on a BikeMi, the local version of the Parisian Vélib’ bike-sharing scheme. Near Piazza Vetra, the heart of Milan’s nightlife, murals tell the story of the city. The igloos on Via Lepanto, built in 1946 by engineer Mario Cavallè, look like urban UFOs. 

To be captured from one pavement to the next: the narrowest street in Milan – Via Bagnera, next to the Duomo – the scene of Italy’s first serial killer; the vedovelle, Milan’s typical fountains; the mosaic of the faceless Duce in Milan Central Station; or the Cà dell’Orecchia (House of the Ear) at Via Serbelloni 10. 

The tales surrounding these great works are fascinating. Reserve the late afternoon for a cult itinerary in the up-and-coming Navigli district, which is undergoing a renaissance. Follow the canals to the nearby suburbs, where a cycle path connects parks and historic sites. On your way back, enjoy an aperitivo ( just a few pounds, with an all-you-can-eat buffet) in one of the trattorias in the Darsena! 

Our adresses 

Grand Hotel et de Milan 

There is a special atmosphere in this typical Milanese aristocratic house, which opened in 1863. Located in the city centre, it remains the favourite address of celebrities seeking refinement and privacy. Don Carlos and Caruso, these two restaurants, offer a gourmet immersion in local culinary traditions.  

Via Alessandro Manzoni, 29, Milan (20121) 

Tel. : +39 02 723141 

BU:R

Welcome to the effervescent world of Eugenio Boer! His creativity is expressed in every direction, layering concepts on top of each other. Inspired by history, art, and the chef’s Milanese-Dutch origins, his compositions are pure moments of delight. One Michelin star.

Via Mercalli Ang. Via San Francesco d’Assisi, Milan (20122) 

Tel. : +39 02 62 06 53 83 

Be inspired by suggestions from Teritoria, a community of independent hoteliers and restaurateurs committed to more sustainable tourism since 1975. Sign up to our newsletter to receive travel inspiration, such as this one about a city break in Milan, directly in your inbox. 

Discover our gift shop, perfect to offer to your loved ones a responsible and unforgettable experience. What’s more, by joining the Teritoria loyalty program today, you’ll enjoy exclusive benefits for your next immersion in one of the Teritoria establishments, receiving an immediate cashback of at least 3% after every stay.

Whether you dream of a stay in the heart of Auvergne Volcanoes or of a sensory immersion in Champagne, Teritoria offers you unique experiences that combine well-being, estate and respect of terroir. 

What to do in May in Auvergne: a stay in the enchanting setting of Manoir de la Manantie 

If you are looking for ideas for an authentic escape in May, the Manoir de la Manantie, in Auvergne, is the perfect place. Located just a few kilometres from Clermont-Ferrand, this elegant 19^th century residence with spacious rooms and refined decoration, surrounded by 12 hectares of English-style landscape garden, offers an enchanting setting to enjoy the first sunny days of spring.

From April 7th to September 14th 2025, thanks to a special offer in their loyalty program you can benefit of 20% off on the B&B rate for any stay of four nights or more, with a complementary local bottle of wine. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore the historic Route of the Châteaux of Auvergne, to discover Romanesque churches, and go hiking in the Chaîne des Puys, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explorers will also be able to visit Thiers, the city of cutlery, and learn to craft their own folding knives. For an even more relaxing stay, slow tourism enthusiasts will appreciate the wellness experiences offered by local partners. 

Promo Code: SAISON25 – Offer valid subject to availability.

What to do in May in Champagne: celebrate 400 years of history at Manoir Henri Giraud 

In 2025, Maison de Champagne Henri Giraud and the Manoir Henri Giraud celebrate 400 years of history and of savoir-faire, a legacy passed down since their creation in 1625 in Aÿ. Today it is managed by Emmanuelle Giraud, 13th generation of the family, this prestigious residence has preserved its authenticity while maintaining its commitment for a more sustainable future, in respect of the Champagne’s terroir.

The Manoir Henri Giraud, created has a haven of peace, invites its guests into a unique immersion where nature and well-being are the highlights. Its spa, inspired by shinrin-yoku, the Japanese practice of forest bathing, offers exclusive treatments like Craÿothérapie, cryotherapy using Champagne chalk renowned for its regenerating and soothing properties. This deep relationship with nature is also shown in the residence’s philosophy, committed to the conservation of Argonne Forest, whose oaks are used to make aging barrels of Henri Giraud’s champagnes.

To celebrate this exceptional anniversary, the manor organises immersive workshops that allow visitors to discover the art of aging in oak barrels, to explore the aromatic richness of emblematic cuvées and to initiate well-being rituals inspired by natural elements of the terroir. A stay at Manoir Henri Giraud in May 2025, is the opportunity to dive deep into an exceptional viticultural heritage, where tradition, innovation and respect for the environment get together to offer a unique experience in Champagne.

Conclusion 

Still wondering what to do in May to fully enjoy this beautiful season? Teritoria guides you on the discovery of unique experiences and of committed establishments that give another meaning to hospitality.

Stay inspired for your next getaways, subscribe to our newsletter and get a preview of our best locations and exclusive offers. Explore our gift shop, where each stay and gift box tell a story, and offer an unforgettable experience to your family or friends. To extend the adventure and enjoy exclusive benefits, join our loyalty program  for free and transform each trip in an even more precious memory. 

Make May an unforgettable escape month with Teritoria.

What is Responsible Tourism?

Responsible tourism is a form of travel that aims to preserve the planet and its people. Contrary to popular belief, being a responsible traveller isn’t just about reducing your carbon footprint, it also means travelling in ways that protect ecosystems and support local communities. This approach emphasises long-term sustainability, both environmental and social. Here are some of its core principles:

Respect for the environment

Responsible tourism takes into account the environmental impact of every trip. This means reducing energy consumption, minimising waste, and choosing low-emission transport options such as cycling, trains, carpooling, or public transport. It also involves selecting eco-friendly accommodation, like the houses in the Teritoria community, which share the same vision of sustainable tourism. In practical terms, they are committed to reducing their footprint, notably by calculating the carbon impact of their activities using the Clorofil calculator.

Respect for local cultures

Respect for local cultures and traditions is a key pillar of responsible tourism. Travellers are encouraged to learn about local customs, engage respectfully with residents, and support the local economy by buying regional products. Choosing establishments that are deeply rooted in their communities also fosters meaningful encounters, cultural exchange, and openness to others. The properties selected by Teritoria embody the identity of those who bring them to life, offering a form of hospitality that is both authentic and committed.

Positive contribution to local communities

Responsible tourism also seeks to improve the lives of local communities by creating sustainable economic opportunities. This includes promoting local employment, supporting community projects, and helping to preserve cultural and natural heritage.

Types of Responsible Tourism

Responsible tourism can take many forms, and you don’t have to choose just one. You can embrace them all in your travels!

Local tourism

Local tourism supports environmental preservation by favouring nearby destinations and reducing the need for air travel. It also boosts the local economy by encouraging spending in small businesses and regional services.

Low-carbon tourism

Low-carbon tourism means choosing the most climate-friendly modes of transport, avoiding cruises and destinations accessible only by plane. This helps you stay within your annual carbon budget. It also involves limiting car use and favouring low-emission alternatives such as trains and bicycles.

Slow tourism

Slow tourism is about choosing to travel at your own pace, rediscovering the diversity of landscapes, local heritage, history, culture, and gastronomy. Far from mass tourism, Teritoria invites you to step away from the crowds. Each hotelier and restaurateur in our guide shares a story of their own: a commitment to authenticity and hospitality that makes every experience unique.

Eco-tourism

Ecotourism places nature at the centre of the travel experience, encouraging observation and discovery in natural areas. This form of responsible tourism includes environmental education, but also calls for avoiding overcrowded sites to help protect fragile ecosystems.

How to be a responsible tourist?

Now that we’ve explored the many facets of responsible tourism, here are a few tips to help you become a model traveller:

Do your homework before you travel

Before you travel, take time to learn about your destination and its sustainability practices. Look for eco-friendly accommodation, local businesses engaged in sustainable initiatives, and organisations that promote responsible tourism. Teritoria’s guide helps you choose places that share your values, curiosity, attentiveness, and a deep connection to place.

Be aware of your impact

Be mindful of how your actions affect the environment and local communities. Avoid waste, limit your water and energy use, follow environmental guidelines, and support local businesses!

Encourage the use of eco-friendly transport

Whenever possible, choose public transport, trains, cycling, walking, or carpooling. Try to reduce long-haul flights, and when flying is necessary, offset your carbon emissions — for example, by supporting environmental projects through NGOs or associations, such as tree planting or solar panel installation.

Respect the local culture

Learn a few words of the local language, respect customs and traditions, and approach each destination with curiosity and respect. If you visit places of worship, follow any specific rules — such as removing your shoes or wearing appropriate clothing. And wherever you are, always ask permission before taking someone’s photo!

Conclusion

By following these principles and showing respect for the planet and its people, we can all contribute to promoting more responsible and ethical tourism. Teritoria is committed to a form of tourism that highlights our regions, connects visitors with local communities, celebrates regional flavours, and offers authentic experiences, all in a sustainable way.

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With thousands of kilometres of well-maintained cycle paths, Europe is the perfect playground for cycling enthusiasts and environmentally conscious travellers. Teritoria revisits the appeal of cycling travel and suggests some charming cycling itineraries in Europe for a two-wheeled getaway across the continent.

Cycling in Europe: some major advantages

©Istock – Uwe Moser

Just like travelling by train, choosing the bicycle as a means of transport contributes to sustainable and eco-friendly tourism. It is a green way to cover both short and long distances while minimising your carbon footprint. Cycling in Europe is more than just a tourist activity, it is also a resposible travel choice.

As you pedal through the cobbled streets of medieval towns, along winding rivers and over majestic mountain passes, you connect directly with diverse landscapes and local communities.

Cycling also gives you the freedom to explore places that are hard to reach by car or public transport. This mode of transport let’s you get off the beaten track and escape the overly touristy places, that often lack authenticity. Beyond the physical benefits, travelling by bike allows you to be present, to slow down, to stop spontaneously and take in the view, taste local specialities, or interact with locals, hosts, and restaurateurs. It’s a form of slow tourism, where you take the time to appreciate every moment, every place and every culture.

Cycling in Europe: a variety of itineraries

To offer you these itineraries, Teritoria drew in particular on the EuroVelo network, made up of 17 long-distance cycling routes that weave connections across all of Europe. They are designed to be explored by both cycle tourists travelling long distances and local residents on their daily journeys.

Cycling itinerary from Paris to the Atlantic coast via the Loire (France)

© Istock – venemama

Follow the pilgrims’ cycle route, then continue along EuroVelo 6, which stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to the Black Sea. Begin your journey in Paris, the City of Light, and cycle along the majestic Loire to the Atlantic Ocean. Ride past picturesque castles, renowned vineyards and charming villages. This route offers a glimpse into the history of France, with opportunities to taste world-renowned wines and savour the local cuisine. End your journey at the Loire estuary, where the river meets the ocean.

Cycling itinerary from Geneva to Nice through the Alps (Switzerland-France)

©Istock – Uwe Moser

Follow the Rhône cycle route and then the Mediterranean route. For mountain lovers, this itinerary offers an unforgettable experience. Start in Geneva, cross the iconic passes of the French Alps, such as the Col du Galibier and the Col du Lautaret, and finish by following the Mediterranean coast to arrive in Nice on the Côte d’Azur. This journey will take you through spectacular landscapes, picturesque Alpine villages and thrilling descents.

Cycling itinerary from Bayonne to León through the Pyrenees (France-Spain)

©Istock – Alba Boix

Follow the Atlantic Coast Cycle Route, then continue along the Pilgrims’ Cycle Route. This itinerary will takes you from France to Spain, from the French Basque Country to León, the capital of one of the nine provinces of the autonomous community of Castile and León. Discover the richness of the Atlantic coastline and cycle through green valleys, cross the Pyrenees and enjoy the charm of these unique regions.

Cycling itinerary from Tuscany to Puglia (Italy)

©Istock – SurkovDimitri

For a memorable Italian experience, the Via Romea cycle route takes you from Tuscany to the charming town of Brindisi in Puglia, passing through Rome. In medieval Europe, this route was a pilgrimage trail to Rome and Jerusalem via the port of Brindisi. This route offers a journey through history, but also a variety of landscapes and picturesque villages for a total immersion in authentic Italian culture.

Cycling itinerary from Hamburg to Prague (Germany and Czech Republic)

© Istock – MikePax

Explore the Elbe Cycle Route. This cycle path follows the course of the River Elbe through Germany and the Czech Republic. Start your journey in Hamburg and cycle through picturesque river landscapes, medieval castles and historic cities such as Dresden. End your trip in Prague, the city of a hundred spires.

In addition to offering an intimate and sustainable way to discover a region, a cycling trip is always a unique, immersive and enriching experience. Routes across Europe offer a diversity of natural landscapes, cultural heritage and authentic experiences that everyone will enjoy! Whether you prefer mountains, rivers, coastlines or historic towns, there is a cycling route in Europe to suit your tastes!

To ensure that this trip turns into an authentic exploration, offering genuine encounters and a deep immersion in the regions you travel through, the hosts and restaurateurs carefully selected by Teritoria will welcome you with enthusiasm, proud to introduce you to the riches of their region. Their commitment to eco-responsibility is also perfectly in line with the philosophy of eco-friendly cycling travel.

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To offer your loved ones an unforgettable and lasting experience during their cycling trips in Europe, visit our gift shop.

 

By Nadia Hamam

It was in 2006, on the occasion of the Winter Olympics in Turin, that the destination revealed all its treasures. The most discerning travellers discovered its stone monuments. Those of nature, first of all: the reliefs of the Italian Alps, such as Monte Rosa and Monte Viso, where Italyʼs longest river, the Po, rises. And those of culture, spread across villages and towns, starting with the epicenter of the region: Turin.

Turin, a hub of art and culture

Long perceived as an industrial city dominated by the mobile car manufacturer Fiat, the beating heart of Piedmont has nothing to envy the great Italian cities.

Elegant and eclectic, the country’s first historic capital is a priceless gem.

Explore its historic center on foot, dominated by the 167-metre-high Mole Antonelliana, which offers a unique panorama from its 85-metre-high balcony. Designed by Baroque architects, the long avenues thread luxury boutiques, authentic cafés and cultural hotspots under majestic arcades. Piazza Castello is home to the Palazzo Madama and the Palazzo Reale, once the principal residence of the Savoy royal family.

The Castello del Valentino, another residence of the kings of Savoy, and the Borgo Medievale, a historical reconstruction inspired by various castles in Piedmont and Valle d’Aosta, take pride of place in the immense Parco del Valentino. This lung of greenery along the River Po is the perfect rendezvous for lovers.

In the Piazza San Carlo, you can play the game of seven differences in front of the Baroque churches of San Carlo and Santa Cristina: true false twins! Soccer fans take note: Juventus tifosis come here to celebrate victory.

F1 fans? Take a detour to Turin’s famous national mobile car museum. The city, with its natural creative energy, boasts some 50 museums, including the imposing Musei Reali (Royal Museums), Fondazione Torino Musei (GAM – modern and contemporary art gallery), MAO (Oriental Art Museum) and Palazzo Madama.

Art towns, charming villages and listed landscapes

Alessandria, Asti, Biella, Cuneo, Novara, Vercelli, Verbania… The refinement of Piedmont’s art towns knows no bounds. The small villages have nothing to envy them: there are twenty “ Most Beautiful Villages in Italy ” in Piedmont! Special mention goes to Roddi, with its most picturesque square, and Cherasco, with its star-shaped ramparts.

Outside the walls, the valleys are home to Romanesque treasures such as abbeys, fortresses, cathedrals and presbyteries. In Cuneo, the sanctuary of Vicoforte houses the largest elliptical dome in the world. Following in the footsteps of medieval pilgrims, a network of paths converges on the sacred mountains of Piedmont (Belmonte, Crea, Domodossola, Ghiffa, Oropa, Orta and Varallo), which are listed as World Heritage Sites. Built between the 15th and 17th centuries, these architectural microcosms were created as places of prayer as an alternative to the Holy Land. Not to be missed, at the top of Mount Pirchiriano: the Sacra di San Michele abbey, immortalized in Umberto Eco’s The Name of the Rose.

Birthplace of the Slow Food movement

Piedmont is a destination that can be enjoyed as much as it can be visited! Turin is the birthplace of vermouth and aperitif, gianduja and artisanal ice cream. From one street to the next, it’s great to sip a caffè, a bicerin (a blend of coffee and chocolate) or nibble an apericena (literally the aperitif-dinner drink), typically Turinese. At the Lavazza Museum, which tells the story of the country’s largest coffee manufacturer, you can taste freshly ground black beans in expert mode.

The region is also renowned for its IGP chocolate and hazelnuts, meats and rice varieties, artisan cheeses and, of course, dʼAlba white truffles. It’s no coincidence that the Slow Food movement was born here. A trip to Piedmont also includes UNESCO-listed wine-growing landscapes such as the Langhe and Roero. An opportunity to meet passionate producers, and taste excellent reds (Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo…) and the most distinguished whites (Erbaluce, Gavi, Arneis…).

The power of nature

Many artists have tried to capture the wild beauty of Piedmont’s landscapes. A skilful blend of rice paddies and lakes, hills and peaks that outdoor sports enthusiasts will embrace wholeheartedly. With 2 national parks and 77 parks and nature reserves, there’s plenty to do! In autumn, you can explore the 20,000 km of roads with their strong military, spiritual and commercial history by bike or motorcycle.

Wonderful cycle paths, ideal for families, gently follow the course of the River Po. Hardened mountain bikers will prefer the banks of the Sesia. In winter, when the Alps are dressed in white, it’s time for great skiing! 1,350 km of slopes, 50 ski resorts and 300 ski lifts guarantee a thrill on the slopes, punctuated by gourmet delights: excellent cuisine in hotels and refuges alike. The pristine landscapes of the Ossola in particular are a veritable paradise for skiers, snowboarders and freeriders, but also for walkers, alone, with family or friends, in search of charm and mountain villages. Sledging, climbing, ice-climbing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing… Piedmont has it all!

Getting there

Turin can be reached without takin off:

By train, thanks to the Paris-Milan TGV line. The line also serves Chambéry to connect with other lines, or from Nice with a connection in Ventimiglia.

By bus, either on the Flixbus Paris-Rome or Barcelona-Venise routes, which provide connections to the cities of Lyon, Montpellier, Grenoble, Nîmes or Châlon-sur-Saône. Or thanks to the Blablabus Paris-Turin lines, which provide connections to Lyon or Chambéry and Paris-Milan.

For further information, visit VISITPIEMONTE.COM

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