Italy is a fantastic example of a perfect June holiday destination; the festival season begins at the start of June continuing throughout the month with a series of spectacular celebrations. Many Italian towns provide free outdoor music festivals and street parties, the larger festivals are more extravagant, with many taking place on public holidays. The Festa Della Repubblica takes place on June 2^nd and is a national holiday along with the Corpus Domini festival which starts on June 24^th. During Corpus Domini, many smaller Italian towns will host feasts, costumed processions and will display breathtaking floral arrangements. It is a definite must see for anyone taking advantage of a holiday in June. On June 16^th Italy celebrates the Luminara of Saint Ranieri, in honour of the patron saint the Arno River is illuminated with the flames of over 70,000 small candles.

Food lovers will enjoy the annual ‘Contadino, The Cook and the Extra Virgin’ a weeklong festival that celebrates everything to do with olive oil and cooking. Another great attraction is the San Giovanni Fest Day, celebrated in Florence on the Sunday following June 24^th. Watch the medieval tournament then enjoy the music, feasting and drinking. The festival is finished by a spectacular fireworks display over the Arno River.

For those that think the holiday season begins in July, hopefully the celebrations going on around Italy will open your eyes to the fantastic benefits of a holiday in June. The only differences between travelling in June compared to the peak months is the ability to relax in peace and of course, the price!