The story behind Ciao Giulia
The name Ciao Giulia was born from a memory of my time as a tour guide in Italy. Riding my Vespa, wearing a bright orange helmet decorated with two little pompoms, I spent entire summers guiding groups week after week along the enchanting Amalfi Coast and through the Tuscan hills.
I soon became a familiar face with my two pompoms among the locals, often stopping to say hello. Over time, every ride through the narrow streets was met with cheerful shouts of “Ciao, Giulia!” from the residents. What started as a spontaneous greeting grew into a symbol of one of the most beautiful and carefree periods of my life.
That same energy, the feeling of freedom, and pure Italian joie de vivre I now carry with me in Ciao Giulia. A name that embraces not only a memory but also a promise: to share the charm, hospitality, and magic of Italy with others.
Ciao Giulia: the meaning
The word “Ciao” is a simple yet warm Italian greeting. It perfectly captures how we approach travel: personal and welcoming.
The name “Giulia” is the Italian version of my own name, Julie.
Why an olive branch as our logo? At Ciao Giulia, the olive branch symbolizes everything slow travel stands for. In Italian culture, the olive represents not only the Mediterranean cuisine but also life, tradition, and connection to the land.
Like the olive tree, we are deeply rooted in local values and take the time to grow and connect. So, the olive branch in our logo is more than just an image — it’s a promise to travel with care, simplicity, and meaning.
Like many others, I used to travel to Italy for the famous hotspots like Florence, Rome and the Amalfi Coast. I fell in love with this country and even found work as a tour guide, spending summers leading tourists through Tuscany and along the Amalfi Coast. Until one day, quite by chance, I ended up in a hidden corner of Tuscany… and everything changed.
How Ciao Giulia began?
Waiting in long lines for Michelangelo’s David? Not a single free spot on the Amalfi Coast beaches? Or frozen pizza on your plate because of the crowds? That rushed mass tourism started to wear on me.
I realized I needed peace. And I found it in the other side of Italy: the local, the quiet and unexpectedly beautiful. Where you don’t see queues, but a neighbor’s smile or freshly baked focaccia in the village square.
That’s where I discovered what travel can truly feel like, when you slow down and dare to let go of the itinerary.
With a passion for slow travel and authenticity, I’m excited to take you to my Italy: the peaceful, genuine Italy that quiets your soul. At your own pace, with space to explore and getting lost. Trust me, you’ll never want to go back!
Our vision and mission
At Ciao Giulia, travel is all about slowing down. It’s no longer rushing from one sight to another, but making time for genuine connections with people and places. We choose to travel sustainably and authentically, with respect for nature and local communities. This way, travel becomes simpler, gentler, and more meaningful, for both you and for the destination.
Ciao Giulia lets you discover the Italy you won’t find in travel brochures: local, with a focus on lesser-known places and regions. Through small-scale trips, personal guides, and tailor-made experiences, we put slow travel at the heart of everything we do.
Our goal? To create meaningful memories and become the leading slow travel specialist for Italy in Europe.
Ciao, my name is Julie!
I’m the founder of Ciao Giulia and a true Italy lover! From my very first visit, I was enchanted by the country: its culture, cuisine, people, and way of life… everything inspires me.
With a background in tourism and tour guiding across various regions of Italy, I’m your guide on our unique group trips. But Italy gave me more than just a deep passion for travel, it also brought me love. This beautiful country became not only my second home but also the place where my heart truly found its place.
Ciao Giulia is my own Italian dream coming true, and I can’t wait to share this passion with you!
Teamwork makes the dream work
Ciao Giulia is a small team with a big heart for Italy. There’s nothing we love more than sharing our passion and helping you experience a trip that truly fits you.
Together, we turn your dream trip to Italy into a unique, unforgettable experience: full of warmth, personal touches, and genuine moments.
Sustainability
Support local communities and crafts
Local
Travel like the locals and experience the real Italy
Off the beaten path
Discover the undiscovered, and explore with us the lesser-known regions
Wellbeing
No packed schedules — just enjoy at your own pace