Bologna

31 Jul 2025

More Than Just Ragu: Why Bologna should be on your list

This irresistible destination nestled in the heart of the world-famous Emilia-Romagna region is charming, yet less chaotic and touristic than its louder neighbours. 

Nikkita in the snow

By Nikkita Vass

Popular content

Kronborg Castle

New for 2025... A Scandinavian Journey: Denmark to Sweden

13 Aug 2024

Introducing our new tour for 2025: A Scandinavian Journey: Denmark to Sweden. Uncover the unique culture, breathtaking beauty and captivating history of this remarkable region.

Hannah one of our authors

By Hannah Rose

Besalu

Siestas, Stories & Scenic Roads: Through Julia’s Eyes

15 Jul 2025

Today, we step into Julia’s world for a heartfelt look behind the scenes of life on the road.

Julia Antiguedad

By Julia Antiguedad

St Michael's Mount

Meet Your Tour Leader: from the Classroom to the Coast

29 May 2025

Every Back-Roads journey is shaped by those travel moments that just feel... different. Our Tour Leaders play a huge part in creating those extraordinary memories for guests that last a lifetime.

Russell Chapman

By Russell Chapman

Pastries made in France

Your French food guide: 10 things to try in France

2 Sep 2024

Ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure through France? Discover 10 foods you need to try on your next French escape.

Hannah one of our authors

By Hannah Rose

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Blogs
italian street scene with colourful houses and church in background

Where to uncover the best pizza in Italy

9 Feb 2022

National Pizza Day

This National Pizza Day, we’ve decided to help you uncover where to find the best pizza in Italy. With so many authentic Italian eateries to choose from, it can be difficult to decide where to venture to get those tastebuds tingling. The destinations we’ve collated include where to find the oldest pizzeria in the world and where to find trapizzino, the iconic Italian pizza pocket. Buon appetito!

 

So, where was pizza originally discovered and how did this heavenly dish make it to our plates today? Pizza originated in Naples in the 1700’s, so understandably the Neapolitans have a pretty good grasp on how to craft the most flavoursome pizzas. That’s why we will start with this world-renowned food destination to reveal where you can savour some truly magnificent pizza!

Author image

By Nikkita Sartori-Sigrist

High view of bay of Kotor

An Adriatic Odyssey: Tour Leader Lana’s Point of View

17 Mar 2021

Embrace an alternative view

Otherworldly vistas and architectural wonders await in the fascinating countries that frame the glimmering Adriatic Sea.

Here our European Tour Leader Lana shares some of her favourite photos taken on our tours of Croatia and Montenegro, where dazzling viewpoints, local legends and authentic experiences combine to form an awe-inspiring adventure along the Adriatic coast.

Lady of rocks
Katherine Conlon

By Katherine Conlon

Photo of Tyne Cot cemetery

Tales from the Battlefields: A Q&A with Tour Leader Steve

15 Mar 2021

Our Battlefields Tour Leader Steve shares stories from the front line of the First World War, including the military sites and war memorials we visit, and the personal pilgrimages we make on our tours of France and Belgium.

Steve Western

By Steve Western

sunset over Porto and the Douro River

Tour Leader Tips: Immersive Adventures in Spain and Portugal

8 Mar 2021

An Iberian adventure awaits

Sun-kissed valleys with neat rows of vines slowly ripening under the glowing Mediterranean sun. Refined coastal towns where architectural wonders merge seamlessly into lively tapas bars and wide stretches of sandy beaches.

The ancient lands of Iberia offer endless experiences for those who are new to its shores, or those returning to uncover more of its captivating history, glorious landscapes and rich cultural traditions.

Here our in-the-know Spain and Portugal Tour Leaders Elaine and Kriszti share their top tips to ensure your complete immersion in this magnificent region, guaranteeing you'll reap the rewards of its many treasures on your Back-Roads Touring journey.

Katherine Conlon

By Katherine Conlon

Twilight scene of Varenna along the shores of Lake Como, Italy.

Italy and Malta’s Mediterranean Charms, Told by Tour Leaders

4 Mar 2021

We asked our Italy and Malta Tour Leaders to share their expert local knowledge, including culinary tips, historic tales, and the best place to catch a majestic Mediterranean sunset.

Katherine Conlon

By Katherine Conlon

A view of Padstow Harbour

Corners of Cornwall: Follow in Rick Stein’s Footsteps

25 Feb 2021

Windswept coastlines harbouring tales of ruthless pirates and mischievous mermaids. Charming fishing villages encompassing narrow cobbled streets, quaint cottages and age-old sea shanties.

Katherine Conlon

By Katherine Conlon