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Whether it’s a family retreat or a girls trip, you can surround yourself with a hand-picked crew and customize a tour that fits you all perfectly.

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National Geographic Journeys

Go deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places we explore. More is included and you’ll enjoy greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts, and freedom to roam.

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Are you an adventure-loving family in search of meaningful ways to discover the world together? These tours are specially designed for travellers seven and up and their inquisitive families.

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Step deeper into the animal kingdom while respecting all of its inhabitants. Our incredible collection of wildlife-focused tours is endorsed by the world-renowned ethologist.

Roamies by Hostelworld

The thrill of adventure. The awesomeness of hostels. Get ‘em both on these immersive small group trips for 18 to 35-year-old travellers.

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Leave your destination even greener than you found it! For every day on tour, we’ll plant a tree in your honour and ensure that our forests get to live their best lives.

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Italy Tours

Your own personal Renaissance

Italians love to surround themselves with beauty, and it shows. A more fitting country could not have been designed by Michelangelo himself: from medieval hilltop towns to sun-drenched Mediterranean islands, Italy is sublime. Icons are so numerous it's difficult to choose. Some are entire cities: Venice, Florence, and Rome are works of art in themselves, and Italy has played host to arguably the greatest collection of art, architecture, and artists the world has ever seen. Home to more UNESCO World Heritage sites than any other country, Italy is nothing if not cultured; an education was once considered incomplete until one spent time in Italy. Today, this tradition continues, as visitors from around the world come to surround themselves with beauty and immerse themselves in la dolce vita. Viva Italia!

What our travellers are saying about Italy tours

Italy tour photos from our travellers, recommended tours, featured blog posts.

Summer dreaming: find your extraordinary European adventure

We curated our top summer tour ideas with shutterbugs, foodies, wellness buffs and hiking enthusiasts in mind

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Pack up your laptop as we share ideal places to work from before or after your tour

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Make a bevvy of international drinks to help ring in a happy new travel year

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Adventure Tours & Trips in Italy

10 best active italy tour packages.

Best of Apulia region - 9 days (Small Group)

"The destinations and hotel accommodations were excellent. The tour would be much better just having a group of 20 or less." James, traveled in May 2023

LITTLE ITALY

Magical Rome & Puglia - 9 Days (Small Group)

"This was a great package. Very well organised at all points of contact. Everything was done/organised to a very high standard. Hotels is excellent. The guides first class, who were more than happy to go the extra mile to ensure everyone had their needs met. We met well traveled and interesting people. An adventure of a life time! Thank you"

A Taste of Italy: 8 Days

"Awesome tour." Michael, traveled in August 2022

4-Day Rome, Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento and Capri

Ultimate Italy

"Really good trip with all keys locations. Host CEO was great." Coreen, traveled in October 2022

Puglia: Discover the Heel of Italy

"The tour itself had an excellent balance of activities and free time. My daughter and I really enjoyed the tour." natasha, traveled in July 2023

Local Living Italy—Amalfi Coast

"The best adventure of my travelling so far." Christopher, traveled in June 2022

Italian Lakes District Adventure

"We had 13 participants with 3 professional guides, our Trip Leader, Joanna McHugh, a native hiking guide, and expert kayaking guide, Giuliano." Cecelia, traveled in August 2018

Authentic Umbria

"What an amazing experience, totally authentic cooking recipes from the talented Rafaela." SueBoyd, traveled in May 2018

New Gulet Cruise among Aeolian Islands, Sicily

Trans Dolomites Challenge

Merano to Lake Garda From a spa town to the ‚Lago’.

The Royal Trail Gran Paradiso Italy

Sardinia & Corsica Sailing Adventure

"Great fun and great captain who made adjustments to trip schedule due to weather." Peter, traveled in May 2019

What people love about Active Tours in Italy

The destinations and hotel accomodations were excellent. We did this trip during the late May and early June timeframe. Our tour was promoted as a 14 person max tour which was not exactly true. There were 2 groups of people split by English Speaking and Spanish Speaking. There were 2 seperate groups but touring the same places, hotels and restuarants. More people then to deal with and figure out logistics and wait time. Overall fairly smooth but room for improvement by decreasing wait time staying on schedule. The tour left a little late each morning so we had less time to see the sights and our free time to explore on our own. Our guides English comprehension was limited and difficult to understand the English with her heavy Italy accent. The tour would be much better just having a group of 20 or less and a better guide that could explain the sights better.

If you want to see a lot of Italy in a short amount of time this is the tour for you! Our guides and driver were fantastic. They took all the guess work out of the equation with their guidance on Italian culture and recommendations of good restaurants and safe areas to visit during free time. Be prepared for a lot of walking as much of Italy is best accessed via walking tours. There is beauty around every corner. If walking is difficult for you, be warned that the handicapped accessibility is not near the standard we find in the USA. All of our hotels were great—clean and comfortable. The bus was well appointed and had free WiFi.

This is a self-directed tour. The tour leader is there to make sure the transportation goes smoothly and to ensure the hotels are arranged. Besides a couple of group dinners, you are expected to make your own site-seeing arrangements. Communications from the tour operator, prior to the tour departure date, are sparse and you do not receive a lot of detailed scheduling Information. The tour leader was knowledgeable and very helpful.

Contact our Italy travel experts

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Benvenuto in Italia! Embark on active adventures, taste local wine and delicacies and retreat to award-winning hotels. Kayak hidden coves in Sardinia. Swim in Sicily’s jewel-blue Mediterranean. Marvel at the Venice canals. Are the mountains calling? Hike and bike under limestone peaks and through fairy-tale villages in the Dolomites or white-water raft and ice hike in the Italian Alps. Pack your bags and discover breathtaking regions to with Backroads on our Italy Multi-Adventure trips.

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11 Absolutely Adventurous Things to Do in Italy in 2023

This post focuses on the best adventurous things to do in Italy.

Italy is home to breathtaking natural landscapes that offer relaxing moments of total abandonment of the hectic pace of everyday life. But not for everyone escaping the routine means relaxing: there are those who love adrenaline, adventure, and risk.!

In this post, we talk about the 15 best adventures in Italy to add to your bucket list if you dare!

Even if you are only spending a week in Italy you can do this easily.

Some of the activities I have listed are doable as a day trip from cities like Rome, Venice, Florence, Milan, and Naples.

*This post contains affiliate links from which I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you (for more info, read my   disclosure )

About the authors: Alessandra and Lisa are two Italian women who love writing and adventures.

15 Most Adventurous Things to Do in Italy

Monte bianco skyway.

Let’s start from the Western Alps, more precisely from the quintessential meaning of adventure: height. We are talking about the highest mountain in Europe, Mont Blanc , which, at 4,807 meters, remains the highest mountain in all the Italian and French Alps. 

With the Sky Way Monte Bianco cable car, it is possible to have a 360-degree vertical experience, starting from its slopes and arriving at the Punta Helbronner station at 3466 meters above sea level. There is also a bistro at the station where you can have a snack before descending back to earth. 

Mont Blanc Adventure Park

But if height is not enough for you and you are looking for the real adrenaline rush, it is to Pré-Saint-Didier , in Valle D’Aosta , that you must go.

Mont Blanc Adventure Park , the largest in Italy, will truly leave you breathless. With its seven routes, divided by levels of difficulty, you can test your adventurous spirit. Spend a day immersed in the green forest enjoying the precious panorama of the Mont Blanc mountain range!

The trails, being divided by level of difficulty, are suitable for both children and adults. The park is located between Pré-Saint-Didier and La Thuile.

Mont Blanc Adventure Park is open mainly during the summer months every day, but by reservation on weekends during the fall months as well. 

Longest Tibetan bridge in the world

Let us now move on to Piedmont, specifically to Cesana Claviere (about an hour’s drive northwest of Turin).

Here stands the longest Tibetan bridge in Italy, and the world! At 468 meters long, it has held this record for many years now and is a destination for enthusiasts and the curious.

Definitely, if you suffer from heights this is not the right activity for you. On the contrary, if you love challenges and want to overcome your fears then this is the right place. You will, in fact, find yourself more than 35 meters above the ground and suspended over the San Gervasio Gorges . Embark on a journey on three bridges created by steel cables pulled among the immensity of unspoiled nature!

Brescia Underground

Let us now descend into one of the most mysterious areas of Lombardy, the Brescia underground . The Brescia Underground Association will guide you on several truly unusual and at the same time spectacular tours of the city’s most remote places.

Equip yourself with comfortable and appropriate clothing to explore sites of historical value found right in the Brescia underground. You will walk along the riverbeds of waterways that have been watering the area for centuries, Roman aqueduct routes, and visit the foundations of historic structures, such as the Clock Tower in Piazza della Loggia .

Are you ready to unearth places where even sunlight has never reached? Then don’t forget a flashlight and a great desire to explore! 

There are three different types of tours, and each involves certain physical conditions. To get there, you can use the subway and get off at the San Polo Parco Station. 

Now let us move to the northeastern side of the boot and arrive in Veneto , enjoying it, however, from an unusual point of view: that of the birds.

The surroundings of Mount Grappa are one of Europe’s cult places for free-flying enthusiasts. We are about 100 km away from Venice.

Paragliding near Venice

If you are a beginner and want to have an unforgettable experience where adrenaline kicks in, then I know the perfect place for you. You can have this experience while visiting one of the most famous cities in northern Italy : Venice.

There are associations like Vivere il Grappa where you can experience tandem paragliding , that is, you will be assisted during the flight by an expert. 

Experiencing nature from that perspective is a unique thrill. You will be captivated by the colors of the nature of that area, and you will ascend the updrafts while admiring up close the dances of the birds with whom you will share the sky. 

Free-flight activities are not possible every time of year, so it is useful to contact the various associations you want to rely on for your experience to set a date and get all the information in detail. You don’t want to miss out on one of the most thrilling activities to perform in northern Italy.

Drive sports car in Tuscany

Let’s abandon the clouds to move to Tuscany , with our feet firmly on the ground, on asphalt more precisely. This region is home to one of the best racetracks in the world . What greater adrenaline rush than to experience a once-in-a-lifetime high-speed race car drive? 

The Mugello racetrack is located just a few miles from the city of Florence, in the fantastic Tuscan countryside where the green cypress trees and fields give off their full force.

Here you have the opportunity to devote a full day to driving courses with sports car instructors. Are you ready to push on the accelerator? Fear not, you will never be alone. You’ll always be escorted by an experienced driver who will know how to speed safely while you experience one of the best fun things to do in Italy.

The circuit hosts car and motorcycle races during different times of the year, so it is highly recommended to book your day in advance. 

Hike to the Etruscan Pyramid in Lazio

History lovers lace up your hiking shoes because now is your time. We are in Lazio, in the province of Viterbo, near a small town called Bomarzo , where you’ll discover one of the most mysterious monuments in Italy.

The Etruscan pyramid of Bomarzo is protected by still unspoiled vegetation, on the edge of a canyon of tufa rock. It has not been possible to assign a real date to this very ancient construction, but being located in the Tacchiolo area, along with an Etruscan necropolis, we place its origin during the Etruscan period (9th to 3rd century BC).

Reaching the pyramid can prove to be an equally adventurous experience for young and old alike, precisely because it involves hiking for about 45 minutes into a wood.

This is one of the most adventurous activities to do near Rome with kids if they love to hike.

The beginning of the path leading to this monument is located near Via Cupa, which crosses the Strada Provinciale Bomarzese near the Pizzeria il Quadrifoglio.

The village of Bomarzo is known for another historical monument, the Renaissance garden nicknamed Monster Park. The park is home to numerous sculptures representing animals and mythological characters connected with the underworld. The gardens of Bomarzo are among the most beautiful historic gardens to visit near Rome . I recommend adding this stop to your itinerary.

Canyoning in Abruzzo

Let’s move to southern Italy, to dive for all intents and purposes into one of the most breathtaking adventures in Italy: canyoning in the wilds of Abruzzo. 

The region’s scenic nature lends itself well to this activity, and there are routes of all kinds, from the simplest for novice canyoneers to more challenging ones that should only be undertaken if you are an expert. 

To begin approaching canyoning, one can start with an easy route, such as the Salinello Gorges , about 20 km away from the city of Teramo. The gorge can be crossed in about 3 1/2 hours. Ropes and good water skills are required. We are located in the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park .

The trail has deep and narrow sections, rock walls up to 200 meters high, pools deep enough to dive into, swimming crossings, and waterfalls. 

To undertake these activities, we always recommend that you are accompanied by experts, such as the Mad Mad Canyoning Association . This association organizes activities in the Salinello Gorges from May to July.

Baia Underwater Park

Let’s dive now to southern Italy, where the sea at Baia, in the province of Naples, opens its waves to us in a truly incredible underwater world. 

In the Baia Underwater Park you can dive to explore Roman remains of domus, villas, and mosaics that have remained intact despite the years and the movements of the sea.

This underwater archaeological park is part of the Phlegraean Fields , and its historical evidence, which stretches from Baia to Pozzuoli, dates as far back as the 2nd century A.D. It was a popular place for both Roman and imperial aristocratic families, which is why today, during an immersive excursion, we encounter ancient architectural gems that evoke wealth and well-being.

The villas were abandoned around the 4th century, precisely because of the rising sea level, which thus submerged the whole area.

Today it is truly a privilege to be able to discover these marine treasures, and the charm of the sea makes everything more magical. To arrange a visit, one can consult the online site, where a wide range of services are also offered to those who do not want to dive (such as canoeing or renting a boat).

The Baia Underwater Park is located just 25 km west of Naples.

Hike in the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast presents some of Italy’s most popular scenery in the world. The towns and villages that bring this region to life are also among the most expensive places to visit in Italy, but this time we are considering them from an adventure perspective.

There is a way to enjoy the spectacular view of the Italian coast without making your wallet cry. Walking the “ Path of the Gods ” will allow you to retrace the route that connected the main villages of the Amalfi Coast in ancient times. 

The trail starts in Bomerano , a hamlet of Agerola, 650 meters above sea level. After about 4 hours of walking you reach Nocelle , a village of Positano on Mount Pertuso. If you then want to see Positano as well, “just” walk down the 1,500 steps that connect Nocelle to Positano!

The Path of the Gods route is of low difficulty but absolutely not recommended for those who suffer from heights.

If you want to add a nature walk to your trip to Italy this is definitely one of the best trails available. The spectacular views of the Amalfi Coast, Capri, and the Faraglioni rocks will be even more satisfying after the physical effort, a hard-earned achievement.

Although the Amalfi Coast is at its peak in summer, I recommend avoiding the hottest months, namely July and August. Fall and spring are the best seasons to tackle this walk.

You can reach the trailhead by public transportation. Take a train to Salerno or Naples and then a Sita bus to Amalfi and from there a bus to Bomerano.

Italy’s most thrilling zip-line

We arrive in the far south of Italy, in one of the regions richest in traditions and unexplored places.

What better way, to admire things, than from above? In Basilicata , in the province of Potenza, a zip-line suspended in the Lucanian Dolomites can prove to be an experience that is not only very compelling indeed, but also romantic. 

The most daring couples can launch themselves together in the Flight of the Angel between the villages of Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa at over 100 km/h and enjoy the view up to 130 meters high!

Depending on the chosen flight station, you will be able to travel a length of 1415 meters (from Pietrapertosa) or 1452 meters (from Castelmezzano). Both villages are really picturesque to visit, I suggest you get lost in their streets before or after flying. 

You can reach them by bus from Potenza with the Sita lines to get to Castelmezzano or with Renna to get to Pietrapertosa.

Discover Sardinia’s Neptune Caves

We conclude our adventurous tour in northern Sardinia . Neptune’s caves open their doors to us along the Capo Caccia massif , near Alghero . 

To reach this enchanted place, full of natural halls, stalactites, and stalagmites, it is necessary to walk about 600 steps (don’t worry, if you don’t like stairs you can also get there by sea from the port of Alghero).

The highlight of the caves, which expand for more than 4 km, is the salt lake of Lamarmora . This is one of the most unique places to see in Italy, it is indelibly imprinted in the mind of every visitor. 

As we said, these caves can be reached from the beautiful city of Alghero, and if you precisely do not like steps, you can start from the port or from the Dragunara pier boarding at Porto Conte.

Descend into the Frasassi Caves

Embark on one of the most unforgettable adventures in Italy by venturing into the captivating depths of the Frasassi Caves. 

Located in the heart of the stunning Marche region in northern Italy, these awe-inspiring caves promise an exhilarating experience like no other. 

The journey begins as you descend into a mesmerizing underground world filled with remarkable stalactite formations, colossal chambers, and an ethereal atmosphere that transports you to another realm. Exploring the Frasassi Caves is an exhilarating activity, where every step unveils the beauty of nature’s hidden artistry.

To reach the Frasassi Caves, travel to the town of Genga , where they are nestled beneath the enchanting Apennine Mountains. Guided tours provide insights into the geological wonders that have formed over millions of years, and the tales of their discovery add an extra layer of fascination. 

As you navigate the labyrinthine pathways, you’ll encounter the awe-inspiring “ Ancona Abyss ,” one of the largest cave chambers in Europe, leaving you in sheer awe of the Earth’s geological history.

The Frasassi Caves stand as a testament to the unending marvels of the natural world. The intricate formations, delicate hues, and the sense of being in an untouched realm make this destination truly special. 

Whether you’re an intrepid explorer or a curious traveler, the Frasassi Caves beckon with their timeless allure. This will not only push your boundaries but also leave you with an indelible connection to Italy’s adventurous spirit. 

Discover Naples’ Underground

If you’re up for one more enthralling journey into the hidden depths of Italy, then you should explore the enigmatic Naples Underground . 

Beneath the bustling streets of Naples lies a labyrinthine network of tunnels, catacombs, and hidden chambers that unveil the city’s rich history in a truly captivating way. 

Venturing into the depths of Naples Underground is like stepping back in time, as you traverse through ancient passageways that once served as aqueducts, marketplaces, and shelters during World War II.

Located in the heart of this vibrant city, Naples Underground offers a unique and thrilling adventure for those seeking to discover the lesser-known facets of Italy’s past. 

Guided tours lead you through these underground passages, shedding light on the stories of resilience, innovation, and survival that echo within these ancient walls. 

As you walk through the dimly lit tunnels, you’ll encounter preserved artifacts, Roman ruins, and even glimpses of life as it was centuries ago.

The allure of Naples Underground lies not only in its historical significance but also in the palpable sense of mystery and intrigue that permeates every corner. 

Exploring this subterranean world is an invitation to delve into the layers of Naples’ past and to connect with the spirit of its people. 

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an adventurous traveler, or simply curious to uncover the hidden narratives beneath the surface, Naples Underground promises an immersive and unforgettable experience. 

The entrance to Naples Underground, known as “ Napoli Sotterranea ” in Italian, is located in the historic center of Naples, precisely in Piazza San Gaetano.

Naples Underground is not a self-guided attraction. Visitors must join guided tours to explore the underground tunnels and chambers. The tours are usually conducted by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the history and significance of the site.

Exploring Naples’ Underground is one of the most interesting things to do in Naples . It’s advisable to make a reservation for the guided tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

The guided tours typically last around 1 to 1.5 hours. Some parts of the tunnels might be narrow and require a bit of walking, so it’s recommended to wear comfortable footwear.

The underground environment can be cooler and more humid than the outside temperature, so bringing a light jacket or sweater is a good idea.

This is one of the best adventure activities in Italy and you can do it right in the heart of Southern ITaly’s most beautiful city.

Immerse yourself in the magical Blue Grotto in Capri

Capri is one of the most beautiful small islands in Italy. In summer its unspoiled nature is filled with fragrant flowers, and the small coastal towns are filled with enthusiastic couples of travelers.

If you want to be seduced by the Italian summer but at the same time want to get your adrenaline fix, then you need to find out what is the most exciting thing to do on Capri.

A natural wonder nestled along the rugged coastline, the Blue Grotto is a true masterpiece of nature’s artistry. 

The journey begins with a short boat ride from the Marina Grande to the entrance of the grotto. As you approach, the magical azure glow that bathes the interior becomes apparent, casting an enchanting spell that transports you to an otherworldly realm.

To enter the Blue Grotto, visitors transfer to small rowboats guided by skilled boatmen who navigate the low cave entrance. Once inside, you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking sight of iridescent blue waters illuminated by sunlight filtering through an underwater cavity. The play of light and water creates a surreal spectacle, with the cave walls reflecting the cerulean hues in a dance of vibrant colors.

Visiting the Blue Grotto is a testament to the wonders of Italian nature and the thrill of exploration. The experience of gliding through the cavern’s waters, surrounded by the ethereal glow, is a memory that will linger long after your journey ends. The Blue Grotto is a captivating reminder of the mysteries that the world holds, and a testament to the power of nature’s magic to inspire and awe. 

So, add this aquatic marvel to your bucket list of unique things to do in Italy.

Climb St. Peter’s Dome in Rome

Unleash your inner explorer with a daring ascent that unveils not only breathtaking heights but also offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Eternal City . 

Climbing up St. Peter’s Dome, a marvel of Renaissance architecture, in Rome is an adventure that seamlessly merges history, architectural brilliance, and the exhilaration of conquering an iconic landmark. 

Designed by Michelangelo and completed by Giacomo della Porta and Domenico Fontana, the dome stands as a testament to human ingenuity and artistic prowess, a fitting crown for St. Peter’s Basilica.

As you ascend the spiral staircase woven within the dome’s inner structure, intricate mosaics and frescoes grace your path, showcasing the craftsmanship that adorns this architectural masterpiece. The ascent to the summit involves conquering 551 steps, each step echoing with the history and devotion that have defined this place for centuries.

There is also the possibility of taking a “shortcut.” This is an elevator that will save you about 200 steps.

Entry is allowed from 7:30 AM to 5 PM. There is usually a very long line at the entrance, so I recommend you buy your ticket in advance.

The journey to the summit continues as you emerge onto the external viewing platform, revealing Rome’s sprawling expanse before your eyes. Ancient ruins, majestic monuments, and the meandering Tiber River create an enchanting tapestry that encapsulates centuries of history. 

The view from St. Peter’s Dome offers a vantage point like no other, gifting you the chance to see the city from a perspective few have witnessed.

While the climb may demand some effort, the reward is immeasurable. The sense of achievement upon reaching the peak, coupled with the beauty that envelops you, amplifies every step’s significance.

Wrap-up – Adventurous things to do in Italy

In the realm where history intertwines with adrenaline-pumping thrills, these captivating adventures in Italy call out to the intrepid spirit. 

From scaling the heights of St. Peter’s Dome to navigating the iridescent waters of the Blue Grotto, and from roaring down Tuscany’s scenic roads in a sports car to conquering the longest Tibetan bridge in Piedmont, the journey across this diverse nation is a tribute to the boundless human drive for exploration. 

Alongside hiking the enchanting Amalfi Coast and delving into the depths of Naples Underground, these remarkable escapades bridge the past with the present, intertwining artistry, history, and the thrill of discovery. 

Whether you’re a devoted adventurer or simply seeking a distinctive connection with Rome’s storied past, scaling St. Peter’s Dome promises an unforgettable experience that etches itself into your Italian journey. 

So, channel your adventurous spirit and seize the opportunity to witness Rome anew from a heightened and invigorating viewpoint above its timeless rooftops and domes. 

I’m Lisa, an Italian from Rome who one day discovered she finds incredible joy in traveling to new places. With this blog, I help you discover Italy (especially Rome and its surroundings) as a local would. Find out more about me here .

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Activity Holidays Italy

Italy adventure tours & holidays.

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Dolomites adventure.

Tuscany Activity Holidays

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Veneto Cycling Holidays

Dolomites Walking Holidays

About Activity Holidays Italy

Welcome to Activity Holidays Italy! Our mission is to provide you with the most unforgettable activity holidays that showcase the best this enchanting country has to offer.

Our dedicated team of travel experts has meticulously curated a  diverse range of adventures  suitable for all ages, interests, and skill levels.

Explore regions such as the:

• Amalfi Coast
• Cinque Terre

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time explorer, anyone can  find the perfect Italian adventure holiday  for themselves here.

You can enjoy the freedom and flexibility of  self-guided adventure tours  while benefiting from our comprehensive support services. We take care of  booking your accommodations , organizing activities, providing detailed  itinerary booklets , GPS tracks for hiking and cycling routes, arranging transfers and logistics, and offering  full 24/7 support  during your holiday.

Embark on the journey of a lifetime and uncover the wonders of Italy with Activity Holidays Italy.  Inquire  about your unforgettable adventure today!

A Proper Italian Adventure

At Activity Holidays Italy, we specialize in crafting unforgettable experiences. Our adventure tours include diverse activities like:

Pedal through scenic landscapes and charming villages.

Trek along breathtaking coastal and mountain trails.

Food & Wine Experiences

Savor the authentic flavors of their iconic cuisine.

Cultural Exploration

Immerse yourself in their rich history and culture.

Some of the holidays are specialized in one of these activities, while others are a combination of many, providing a truly unique experience.

Browse through them and find the perfect one for you.

Explore Italy's Enchanting Landscapes

Get inspired by Italy’s stunning landscapes and diverse adventures waiting for you. The featured video showcases a glimpse of the breathtaking natural beauty and exciting activities that Italy has to offer.

Imagine cycling through the rolling hills of  Tuscany , where lush vineyards and olive groves stretch as far as the eye can see. Picture yourself hiking along the rugged coastline of  Cinque Terre , where pastel-hued villages cling to steep cliffs, and azure waves crash against ancient harbors below. Traverse the dramatic peaks and verdant valleys of the  Dolomites , where every step reveals a new, awe-inspiring panorama.

From the sun-kissed shores of the  Amalfi Coast  to the rich history and culture of  Sicily ‘s ancient sites, our self-guided adventures invite you to indulge in the captivating splendor of Italy’s landscapes at your own pace.

And for a perfect active winter holiday, you can opt for exciting ski holidays in Italy .

Handpicked Adventures

Hassle-free, trusted by many, unbeatable support, things to know.

The best time to go on an activity holiday in Italy depends on the region you plan to visit and the specific activities you’re interested in. Generally, our dry season-based activity holidays are most enjoyable from April to October, as the weather is typically pleasant and suitable for outdoor adventures. However, it’s important to keep in mind that climate conditions can vary between different regions.

Northern Italy (Dolomites and Venetia):  Everything from April to October works in these regions.

In the Dolomites, summer temperatures in the mountains are quite refreshing, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), while the low valleys can be quite hot, reaching up to 30°C (86°F). Early-season hiking in higher mountain areas might still encounter some snow cover, so it’s best to check conditions before planning your trip

Central Italy (Tuscany and Cinque Terre):  The best time to visit these regions is between May and September when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for coastal hikes, swimming, and enjoying the picturesque villages.

Southern Italy (Amalfi Coast and Sicily):  This part of Italy has a longer season, with ideal conditions for outdoor activities typically lasting from April to November. The temperatures in the south are generally warmer than in the north, ranging from 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F) during the peak season.

Our focus is on providing flexible and customized tours that cater to your specific needs. To achieve this, we work with a variety of high-quality accommodations that can be adjusted based on your preferences, budget, and availability. Rest assured that the accommodation you will be staying at will be confirmed prior to the tour and communicated to you in advance.

Weather can sometimes impact the activities planned on our tours. If the weather is particularly bad, we may need to cancel or alter the itinerary to ensure the safety and satisfaction of our guests. If a cancellation does occur, we will provide suitable alternatives or offer a partial refund. If you are worried about the weather affecting your trip, please reach out to us before departure to discuss any potential impacts.

Our activity holidays are designed to be thrilling and enjoyable, but they do require a certain level of physical fitness. We recommend that all participants have a moderate level of fitness to fully engage in the activities and prevent potential injuries. If you have any doubts about your fitness level, please do not hesitate to contact us. We will gladly discuss your options and help you choose the right holiday for you.

Yes, we provide all the essential equipment needed for the activities on our holidays. This includes safety gear like helmets, harnesses, and other protective equipment, as well as any specialized equipment required for specific activities. Before arrival, we will need to take your measurements to ensure proper fitting of the gear. This is for your safety and comfort, and we guarantee that we are not being intrusive.

For the activities on our holidays, we recommend that you bring a swimsuit and towel for any water activities and comfortable shoes that are easy to move around in for hiking and cycling. Additionally, please bring comfortable clothing suitable for the activities you will be participating in.

Breakfast is included in our holidays, but we also provide ample time and options for lunch and dinner. We will provide information about local dining options and make recommendations based on your preferences and dietary restrictions. Our goal is to let you experience the local cuisine and have a delightful dining experience during your adventure holiday. Therefore, please let us know if you have any questions or concerns.

Most of our activities are suitable for children who are at least 12 years old. However, in some cases, the minimum age may be determined by the child’s height or weight rather than their age. If you have any doubts about your child’s ability to participate in a specific activity, please feel free to ask us directly. We are happy to provide more information and assist you in choosing the right activities for your family.

Ready for the time of your life?

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Italy: Amalfi Coast & Islands

Amalfi, SA, Italy

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About this trip

Join our expert Bold Spirit facilitator on this seven-day, women-only, small group adventure to Southern Italy. 

Play where the ancient Greeks and Romans did as you explore a landscape of fragrant lemon groves, azure sea, and colorful coastal villages. 

Journey to Naples, Ravello, Positano, Sorrento, and the lush Phlegraean spa island, Ischia,  to understand why travelers have been flocking to this part of the globe for centuries. 

This Bold Spirit adventure is about the good things in life: friendship, connecting with nature, R&R, and excellent Italian food. 

Ready to join the adventure? 

Available Packages

There are two departures for this trip. The two trips are the same, only the dates are different. Choose May 20th or May 29th.

Available options

Need your own space? Enjoy a private room upgrade at our hotels in Sorrento and Naples. 

Arrive a day early in Naples and get over jet lag. Stay at the same hotel in a private room so that you do not need to switch hotels. This is for May 19th, 2025, the day before the tour begins. 

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Home 〉 Tours 〉 Europe Tours  〉Italy

Best of italy.

The enduring phrase ‘la dolce vita’ – or the good life – truly captures the essence of Italy. Spend 14 days discovering the heart of all things Italian on a culturally rich adventure from the piazzas of Rome to the canals of Venice. Tour the Tuscan countryside on a leisurely cycle along Lucca’s Serchio River, peer into Pisa and marvel at its Leaning Tower, take to the trails of the Cinque Terre for some stunning coastal views, and walk the Portofino Peninsula to be one with its glamourous residents. With time spent wine tasting in rural villages, ferry catching along Lake Como and relaxing among the vibrant centres of Milan and Venice, you’ll soon understand why Italy remains in the hearts of all who visit.

14 days, from

12 people max Traveling in a small group people gets you closer to your travel companions, your destination and its culture. Grab a few friends, then grab a few more, and if you get 10 friends together you’ll be traveling in an exclusive small group with a local leader and an incredible itinerary. Traveling in a small group people gets you closer to your travel companions, your destination and its culture. Grab a few friends, then grab a few more, and if you get 10 friends together you’ll be traveling in an exclusive small group with a local leader and an incredible itinerary.

ACTIVITY LEVEL

Countries Visited:  Italy Accommodation:  Hotel (13 nights) Transportation: Train , Private vehicle , Bicycle , Boat , Public bus , Metro Included Meals:

• 9 breakfasts

Group size: Minimum 1, Max 12

Take to the Tuscan countryside and cycle along the Serchio River in Lucca, working up an appetite for the region’s delicious local food and renowned wines.

Spend a free day exploring the beautiful villages, estates and gardens dotted around Lake Como, criss-crossing the lake by ferry, and consider exploring the grounds of Bellagio's grand Villa Melzi.

Head with your local leader to a quaint rural village in the heart of Piedmonte to sample world-class local wines from unique grapes grown only in this region – saluti!

Test yourself on the hilly trails of the Cinque Terre, stopping by the picturesque pastel colour villages of Manarola, Riomaggiore and Vernazza. If you get tired, just jump on the train for the rest of your day!

Italy’s iconic Rome, Florence and Venice are a haven of renaissance architecture and historic sights. With plenty of time to discover at your own pace, you have the power to decide what you’d like to see.

Show Full Itinerary

Buongiorno! Welcome to Italy. Crowded with ancient ruins and religious monuments, Rome still pulses to the beat of modern life and is packed with designer shops, restaurants, cafes and exciting nightlife. If you arrive early, there are plenty of things to keep you busy. Maybe save the unmissable sights for later and today do as the Romans do – sip an espresso at one of the tiny streetside cafes and sample the many flavours of gelato that colour the city. For those captivated by the 'Eternal City', throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure a return visit to Rome. Keep in mind that there will be an important welcome meeting, usually at around 6pm, where you’ll meet your group leader and fellow travellers.

Enjoy some free time in Rome or, if you wish, your group leader will be available for an orientation walk, taking in some of the best-known sights of Rome like the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps and the Roman Forum. No visit would be complete without a trip to Vatican City and St Peter's Basilica. Entry to the Basilica is free and there's a small charge to climb the dome for a breath-taking panorama over parts of the city. If there's time, visit the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel. In the afternoon you'll travel by train from Rome to Florence – Italy's outdoor museum (approximately 2 hours). Florence, the cultural heart of Tuscany, bursts with religious treasures and Renaissance masterpieces. It's been said that during the second millennium, a third of Europe's most important artists lived in Florence. The minds and talents of the Medicis, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Brunelleschi, Machiavelli, Donatello and Michelangelo all flourished here. After checking in to your hotel, the rest of your evening is free to explore the city of the Renaissance. Food is also a major part of the city's identity, so why explore some of the Tuscan delicacies on offer with your travel pals.

Today is a free day for you to explore all that Florence has to offer. It's impossible to see everything in this Renaissance wonderland, so take your time to work out a plan. The principal sights are easily discovered on foot – the Pitti Palace, Ponte Vecchio, Arno riverside, the many statues and monuments of the Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, 13th-century, the Baptistry and the Belltower, and the Santa Croce Church. Otherwise, take a visit to the Uffizi – one of the world's oldest art galleries and a work of art in itself. If you’re wanting to see Michelangelo's iconic statue of David, head to the Galleria dell'Accademia. In the evening, perhaps climb the steep stairs uphill to Piazzale Michelangelo a renowned sunset view across the rooftops of Florence. Afterwards, join the locals in taking a passeggiata – a leisurely socialising stroll – perhaps between Piazza Beccaria and Piazza della Repubblica. That is, if you aren’t enjoying a Tuscan meal instead.

No doubt there'll be more to see in Florence this morning, then this afternoon, take a train to Lucca (approximately 2 hours). Lucca is one of Tuscany's real hidden gems, with centuries-old buildings, beautiful churches, charming piazzas and narrow streets within its ancient city ramparts. You’ll be captivated by this charming and medieval town. You’ll be staying in the city centre which allows easy access to all the sights, restaurants and bars – all an easy stroll from the hotel's front door. Make sure you join the traditional evening pastime of many locals and take a stroll along the top of the famous city walls that surround the perimeter of the old city.

Set off on a cycling tour following the scenic Serchio River through the Tuscan countryside (4 kilometres round the walls that are now a tree-lined avenue, and 14 kilometres by the river, approximately 3-4 hours). Your base in Lucca provides you with the perfect opportunity for a later outing to the nearby city of Pisa (approximately 30 minutes by local train). Here there'll be ample time for you to visit the world-famous Leaning Tower, as well as the nearby Duomo in Piazza dei Miracoli and the Pisa Baptistry. The Leaning Tower was built in the 12th century, but its foundation was on shifting sand and clay, meaning that it now leans at an angle of four degrees, after restoration and stabilising work. Continue to wander the streets past high-end boutiques and speciality book and antiques stores, perhaps stopping to enjoy an aperitif. Afterwards, head back to Lucca. An ideal way to end the day is to head to a local bar for a refreshing Prosecco and a delicious focaccia with finocchiona salami and pecorino cheese, best enjoyed in the shadow of the Palazzo Pretorio.

Travel by train to La Spezia (approximately 3 hours) – the gateway to the gorgeous Italian Riviera. A medieval port town whose name is derived from its historic importance in the spice trade, La Spezia is your base for exploring the nearby stunning stretch of coast known as the Cinque Terre. The name comes from the five tiny villages – Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore – whose position, wedged into a series of coves between cliffs makes it one of the highlights in the whole of Italy. After lunch, explore the city or perhaps head out by ferry or bus to the pretty seaside town of Portovenere, known for its colourful houses straddling the waterfront. Return to La Spezia and walk around the pedestrian zone on Via del Prione to the gardens along the harbour. Otherwise, opt to take another ferry to Lerici – another small village across the Bay of Poets dominated by its castle – for a waterside dinner.

This morning, venture out to visit the enchanted Cinque Terre. The footpaths that run between the villages were once the only way to travel in the region, and take you through olive groves, vineyards and on to idyllic, breath-taking vistas. If you're feeling energetic, walking parts of the path (up to 12 kilometres, approximately 5 hours) will give you the best taste of the villages and countryside, though will require a good level of fitness. Some sections of path can be difficult, as there are challenging uphill stretches, narrow paths, steep cliffs and foot bridges. It's also possible to take the train between any of the villages or back to your base in La Spezia whenever you want. Stop off for lunch at one of the towns and relax in the vibrant atmosphere.

Travel by train to Santa Margherita on the Peninsula of Portofino (approximately 1 hour). Store your luggage and set off on an energetic 5-7 kilometre walk, finishing in Portofino. Start by wandering down to the Santa Margherita waterfront, past small fishing boats in the marina, enjoying the views back to town. Continue along the road, passing beach clubs, private villas and hotels that command the skyline, where the hills of the Italian Riviera meet the Bay of Tigullio. Spot locals sunbaking in the coves, then cross through some undulating forested terrain. Descend down to the picturesque port of Portofino – the place where the rich and famous come to play. Continue up to the viewpoints surrounding the town, join the glamorous for coffee and people-watching along the harbour, or perhaps stop at a focacceria to try this typical Ligurian bread. Afterwards, enjoy the fabulous coastal scenery with a boat ride back to Santa Margherita (weather permitting). Continue by train to Asti (approximately 2.5 hours) in the Piedmont region, where mouth-watering culinary delights await. Be sure to try a dish flavoured with truffle and indulge in a tipple of Italian wine.

This morning, take a bus to the green hills of the nearby rural village of Castagnole Monferrato, where you’ll visit the home of a local winemaking family to sample their vintages. The Ruche grape variety is unique to this region of Italy – it's grown in just seven small villages in the province of Asti and produces a ruby-red, intense and aromatic wine. You may even like the option to enjoy a home-cooked lunch in the village, before returning by bus back to Asti. The town of Asti, located in the Piedmont region, was one of the most important towns in medieval times, sitting on trade routes between Turin, Milan, and Genoa. Today, it’s best known as the home of some of the finest and most sought after wines in Europe – excellent reds and the sparkling white ‘spumante’. It's also the best place to find ‘tartufo’, or truffles – a distinctive regional delicacy. You may be lucky enough to be here on a market day, when the Piazza del Palio hosts the region’s largest open-air market.

Travel by train to Milan (approximately 3 hours) – Italy's second largest city and the capital of Lombardy – for a few hours to explore. In this most fashionable of cities, this is the place for stylish shopping and cafes! Explore the city's historic centre, visit the Gothic Duomo and walk between its rooftop sculptures, admiring the views and the stunning Gothic terrace. You may like to visit Leonardo Da Vinci's masterpiece – The Last Supper – if there's time, so be sure to book tickets well in advance. Alternatively, head to the park of Castello Sforzesco; the perfect destination on a hot day. Later in the afternoon, continue by train and bus to Lake Como (approximately 2 hours) – an area of stunning beauty full of unique and evocative landscapes. Your hotel tonight is on the shore of Lake Como where you'll be able to experience its true serenity.

This morning, explore the pretty village of Bellagio. Here you can enjoy a walk through the countryside and discover the estate of the Villa Melzi. This grand white villa sits just back from the water and its surrounding estate is filled with rare and exotic plant life. The rest of the day is free to take the ferry between the various parts of this area of Lake Como, like Varenna, Cadenabbia, or the beautiful Villa Balbianello, which film fans may recognise from films franchises like James Bond and Star Wars. Villa Carlotta is another waterfront villa open to the public. It holds a range of artwork and is surrounded by acres of manicured Italian gardens. Just past Cadenabbia is Tremezzo, where you can find delicious food or an aperitif – sitting dockside, lakeside, or out on a veranda. Simply strolling and admiring the beautiful views whichever way you turn is an ideal way to spend the day. With some fine Italian food tonight, of course.

Leave the lakes district behind and take the train to Verona (approximately 2.5 hours). This city, possibly best known from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, is worth a stop on any Italy itinerary. After a brief orientation walk by your leader enjoy some time to explore the city. Besides Juliet’s balcony, a visit to the Arena is highly recommended. Perhaps stroll through the historical centre or get off the beaten path by finding the Well of Love that is revocably linked to the tragic love story between the soldier Corrado of San Bonifazio and Isabella of Donati family. Later in the afternoon continue to Venice (approximately 1.5-2 hours - depending on the train connections available). This grand city of bridges, towers, piazzas, canals, churches and gondolas – practically unchanged for 600 years. Venice is built over a hundred small islands connected by 400 bridges. There are plenty of things to keep you busy when you arrive. Join your leader and take a walk around the maze of streets behind Piazza San Marco and begin to understand the complex canal system of Venice. Your leader will introduce you to the local way of crossing the canal, by traghetto. It only takes a minute or so, but it is a quintessential experience to have in Venice. Stop for a snack with a side of inspiration at a local restaurant that employs, supports and advocates for migrants who have made long and at times dangerous journeys to Europe. The rest of the day is free for you to explore. The Grand Canal is a great place to start, as you can stroll over the Rialto Bridge and browse the endless amounts of boutique shops that sell Venetian masks and handmade Murano glassware. For dinner, perhaps seek out Venice's distinctive culinary heritage, which goes back to ancient times and features rich risottos, saline baccala (salted cod) and creamy polenta.

Venture out and explore Venice today at your own pace. There are only two ways to get around this city – on foot or by boat. Take in the famous sights – the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge, Doge's Palace, Piazza San Marco with its golden Basilica, and of course, the evocative Bridge of Sighs. You could take a vaporetto (water bus) over to the island of San Giorgio to climb the bell tower for the best view of Venice. No trip here would be complete without a journey down the Grand Canal in a Venetian gondola. See Venetian creativity and artisan wares in the glass in Dorsoduro or down the streets spreading out from the Campo Santo Stefano. Visit the Palazzo Ducale, overflowing with paintings by Italian masters, and contrast it with the modern Guggenheim. In the evening, maybe gather your travel crew together for a celebratory dinner of Venetian specialities, such as fresh lobster and squid ink spaghetti.

There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. That doesn’t mean your adventure has to come to an end! As there is so much to see in Venice, you may want to consider extending your stay. There’s a range of Urban Adventures to embark on in Venice, including Cicchetti & Wine Tour, which takes you around the lanes and canals in search of the best of Venetian culture and wine. See urbanadventures.com/destination/Venice-tours for more information. If you would like to spend more time in Venice, we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).

Italy Tours & Vacations

Cruise canals, peruse piazzas, veer towards the Vatican and polish off the perfect pizza.

Italy may be one of Europe 's most-visited countries, but finding your way around Venice’s canals, choosing the best place for gelato in Rome and knowing your agnello from your agnolotti are skills best learned from locals. Between tasting balsamic vinegar in a traditional acetaia in Modena and sailing past pastel-hued cliffside villages on the Amalfi Coast to sampling local wine in Tuscany's vineyards  and admiring lesser-known Renaissance art in Florence, one thing's for sure: you won’t be going hungry.

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Italy at a glance, capital city.

Rome (population approximately 2.87 million)

Approximately 59 million

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Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth) Type L (Italian 3-pin)

Learn more about Italy

Culture and customs.

With the Renaissance, opera, Vespa, Valentino, slow food, espresso, the Colosseum, and the Sistine Chapel, the culture of Italy is as rich as its food. And with iconic cities like Rome, Venice, Florence, and Naples showcasing historic gems around every corner, it's easy to see why Italians are so very proud of their heritage. Italy drips with sensational artwork, ancient icons, ornate architecture, and historic sights. The streets are filled with people and places that exude character and charisma, and the famous Italian artists, inventors, and public figures who have contributed so much to the world are openly adored and celebrated.

In general, Italians value family, food, and the enjoyment of life. Good quality food made with the best ingredients is preferred over processed products and fast food. Eating is a pleasure to be enjoyed with friends and family, not a necessary inconvenience. Respect for the family unit is paramount, with many families choosing to live close to each other for life. Community is also an important element of Italian life and this can be seen in neighbors enjoying a passeggiata (an after-dinner stroll and chat).

Italians certainly live their lives with passion, and this is evident in their zealous approach to driving, passionate following of football (soccer) matches, and exuberant social life. It's common to see Italians debate politics, fashion, sport, and current affairs with ferocious verve, which can sometimes be quite confronting for people from meeker cultural backgrounds. But lying underneath the bold, animated exterior of most Italians is a deep, passionate love of life itself.

History and government

Rise of the empire.

The rise of the Roman Empire has been the subject of much fascination, intrigue, and interest from scholars, artists, travelers, and students around the world. The modern world owes a lot to this civilization, with many important scientific inventions, art movements, architectural triumphs, and philosophical ideas being born from Roman civilization – most notably during the Renaissance.

Founded sometime around 750 BC, Rome is still considered one of the most important and enduring cities in the world. Home to such famous citizens as Julius Caesar, Emperor Augustus, Claudius, Nero, Mark Antony, and Marcus Aurelius, Rome has enjoyed the great highs of dominating the Mediterranean region and the artistic triumphs of the Renaissance, but also the lows of the Great Fire of Rome, which ended up destroying a large part of the city. Rome has survived natural disasters, political turmoil, feuding families, plagues, and fierce wars.

Spanning centuries, the story of Ancient Rome is full of dramatic twists and turns and explains how tourist icons like the Colosseum, Pantheon, Circus Maximus, and Palatine Hill came to be.

The Renaissance

The time of the Renaissance in Italy (15th to 16th century) marked the clear transition from the Middle Ages to Modernity. The social and cultural revolution began in Florence, which was under the rule of the Medici family, and spread south to Rome. During this time, there was a reinvigoration of the arts, literature, science, invention, and political theory, which influenced all of Europe – all centered in Italy.

People in protest

After the Renaissance, Italy was unified with Sardinia in 1861, becoming the Kingdom of Italy. After World War I, Italy came under the fascist rule of Benito Mussolini, who ruled until 1943. Siding with Nazi Germany in World War II, the Italian Army suffered many losses and ultimately surrendered in 1945. After a referendum in 1946, Italy became a Republic and flourished during the 1950s and 1960s. The post-war period marks a time of economic progress for Italy, also largely reflected by the rest of the world's increased economic stability during a period of relative peace.

From the late 1960s, Italians lived with political upheaval and uncertainty, marked by the ‘Anni di Piombo’ or ‘Years of Lead’. This time was marked by conflict and public protests, and in the years to follow, corruption, organized crime, terrorism, and government debt were prominent in Italy. This led to extremist incidents of political terrorism and crisis on the left and the right, with one terrorist group – le Brigaterosse (or the Red Brigade) – a key player in the turmoil.

In 1994, media mogul Silvio Berlusconi was elected to the office of Prime Minister but was forced to step down later in the year after losing support from his political partners. Social unrest died down a little after the turn of the millennium, but Italy’s political system remained fraught with instability. Undeterred, Berlusconi regained power on two separate occasions, both times amid controversy and scandal.

Currently, Italy is run under a unitary parliamentary republic system and has been since 1946. The final downfall of Berlusconi has marked a shift in Italian politics, with many parties vying for office, and alliances and coalitions the only way to do so.

Top places to visit in Italy

Oh, Venice. The city of romance, gondolas, Piazza San Marco and an endless maze of canals. With plenty of free time to eat, drink, shop and stroll, you’ll lose all sense of direction – but remember, getting lost in Venice is the whole point! Don't forget to sample a big slice of tiramisu (coffee-soaked sponge cake), the region’s specialty. Explore Venice on our 14 day Best of Italy tour, on our 8 day Highlights of Italy tour, or on our 8 day Italy Real Food Adventure.

2. Cinque Terre

The footpaths between the villages on the enchanting Cinque Terre were once the only way to travel in the region. Hike along the rugged clifftops and discover olive groves, vineyards, breathtaking vistas and five pastel villages perched on the coastline – each more colorful than the last. If hiking isn’t your thing, don’t worry – just jump on the train! Fall in love with Cinque Terre on our 15 day Barcelona to Rome tour, on our 8 day Cinque Terre: Hike, Bike & Kayak tour, or on our 8 day Northern Italy Family Holiday tour.

3. Amalfi Coast

Discover southern Italy’s dazzling coastline of cliffside villages and rugged terrain by land and sea, perhaps sailing out on the Mediterranean to picturesque Procida or the Isle of Capri on an adventure cruise . You might like to hike the famous Walk of the Gods, sip Campari in Sorrento, or tuck into traditional pizza in Naples – the birthplace of pizza. Adventure along the Amalfi coast on our 10 day Explore Southern Italy tour or on our 8 day Amalfi Coast: Hike, Bike & Kayak tour.

There's much more to Tuscany than Florence's impressive Renaissance art and architecture – though there'll be plenty of time to explore this! From rolling hills and fruitful vineyards to charming fortified towns with their relaxed vibes, the Tuscan countryside is the Italy that continues to draw you back; the one you fall in love with. Marvel at Tuscany's picturesque countryside on our 10 day Italy Experience tour or on our 8 day Cycle Tuscany tour.

Italy’s enduring capital, the epicenter of the fierce Roman Empire – Rome is a living, breathing history book. Dive deep into the city’s most iconic sites – the Forum, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps – and stumble upon the country within a city: the Vatican. Or simply sip espresso at one of the tiny streetside cafes and watch life go by. Absorb Rome's history on our 8 day Rome to Amalfi tour or on our 8 day Highlights of Italy in Winter tour.

6. Taormina

If mainland Italy is the boot, Sicily is the football. The further south you go, the more relaxed Italians get – so immerse yourself in an island culture full of charm, and a cuisine packed full of arancini and granita. Take a day trip to the charming city of Taormina and visit the world-famous Greek theatre and cathedral, take a dip in pristine coves, or enjoy lunch while looking at the imposing Mt. Etna. Visit Taormina on our 24 day Rome to Sicily adventure.

Eating and drinking

Italy may be the food capital of the world (not exaggerating), but sometimes it can be difficult to know what to eat and where to go.

When eating and drinking through Italy, be sure to walk a street or two away from the tourist attractions to find a restaurant, as they often are cheaper and much more authentic than the ones close by. Be skeptical of menus entirely in English and those with pictures, as this is, again, not the authentic way. Also, bigger is not always better – often, the ‘hole-in-the-wall’ restaurants produce the best food. But above all, go with your gut and follow your eyes and nose, and you will be satisfied.

Sample and sip your way through the best flavors Italy has to offer on our 8-day Italian Real Food Adventure Tour

Must try dishes and drinks in Italy

• Antipasto If any country knows its way around cured meat and vegetables, it’s Italy. Discover salami, olives, artichokes, anchovies, cheeses, grissini, and more, with each board changing depending on what region you find yourself in.
• Pizza If you were asked to describe Italy in one word, chances are someone would yell ‘pizza’. This carby dish of 100% joy is found all over, with regional specialties everywhere you go. And if you’re vegan? No stress – just ask for one of the vegetarian pizzas ‘senza formaggio’ (without cheese) and you’ll be set. Expect to be crucified if you ask for pineapple, though. 
• Pasta Different shapes, different sauces, and different preparations make this one of the world’s most versatile dishes. From a fiery penne arrabbiata and a creamy spaghetti cacio e pepe to a baked gnocchi alla romana, you really can’t go wrong.
• Gelato Traditional Italian flavors like bacio (chocolate hazelnut), amarena (sour cherry), and limone (lemon) are the perfect accompaniment to sightseeing on a hot summer's day. Stack the gusti (flavors) up on a cono (cone) or in a copetta (cup) for a quick snack.
• Wine Italy produces some of the world's best wine, so savor a glass (or three) of Chianti or Sangiovese with dinner. Most regions of Italy produce their own wine, but the area that everyone talks about is the one and only Tuscany.
• Aperitivo A classic Italian pastime, aperitivo hour calls for two things: to find a local restaurant or bar in the early evening, and to order yourself a drink. This is usually a light and dry tonic, but can be wine or a cocktail. It’s usually accompanied by some complimentary nibbles.

Read more about what to eat in Italy

Read more about what to drink in Italy

Geography and environment

Sharing borders with Switzerland , France , Slovenia , and Austria , Italy also encompasses the independent territories of San Marino and Vatican City and includes the islands of Sicily and Sardinia.

Home to mountains, volcanoes, islands, beaches, spectacular cliffs, and expansive stretches of coastline, the natural landscapes of Italy provide dramatic scenery as well as popular places to explore and relax for travelers. The major cities of Italy, although industrialized, still retain buildings, churches, and relics from the past. It's quite common to see modern shops housed in historic cobblestone streets and new Vespas perched beside piazzas.

In smaller cities and more isolated areas, rural life is a whole lot slower. Permaculture remains popular, with many Italians growing fruit and vegetables in their backyards. The traffic and frenetic pace of the cities give way to idyllic olive groves, vineyards, and farmhouses.

8 iconic Italian landscapes

• Capri Be blown away by the shimmering beauty of this sun-bleached island that sits in the middle of a mass of deep blue water. Home to luminous sea caves, stunning cliff faces, and whitewashed buildings, Capri is the perfect setting for a romantic escapade, a relaxing boat ride, or some serious sun-worshipping.
• Tuscany An enchanting mix of rolling green hills, vineyards, simple farmhouses, and charming villages, Tuscan landscapes are effortlessly beautiful. Whether you're cycling around vineyards, hiking through the countryside, or lying in a field of golden grass, Tuscany is made for life in the slow lane.
• Lake Como Lake Como is considered one of the most picturesque slices of Italy. A vast expanse of deep blue water set to a stunning mountainous backdrop dotted with rustic villas and wildflowers, Como is the sparkling jewel of Italy's north, naturally polished to perfection.
• Mount Vesuvius Sitting on the Bay of Naples, the austere beauty of brooding Mt Vesuvius offers a contrast to the luscious green landscapes of the Mediterranean. Mt Vesuvius is still active, but a hike to the summit is possible – and worth it for the views of the bay below.
• Amalfi Coast A journey along the winding roads of the Amalfi Coast offers panoramic sea views, and alluring towns perched on cliffs and beaches bathed in sunlight. Admire landscapes dotted with lemon trees and olive groves and enjoy the gentle sea breezes.
• Sicily Sitting under the watchful eye of moody Mt Etna, Sicily is a taste of authentic Italy. Surrounded by a sea of turquoise speckled with volcanic islands, Sicily boasts diverse landscapes of rocky mountains, rural pastures, ancient ruins, and villages steeped in history.
• The Dolomites Carpeted in wildflowers during summer and covered in a blanket of white snow during winter, the Dolomites are a breathtaking sight in any season. Whether you're hiking the trails during summer or skiing downhill during winter, you’ll soon realize why the Dolomites have such a mighty reputation.
• Le Cinque Terre A quintessential Italian sight, the Cinque Terre, or Five Lands, is a destination to be cherished. Walk the rocky path over steep cliffs and past character-filled villages perched beside the sea. Wander past shady trees, gardens, and groves as the sea reflects the sun’s rays. This is panoramic perfection!

Italians are known for their style and this is reflected in their designer fashion and furniture. Be prepared to part with money – shopping in Italy can get quite expensive – but the quality of handmade and tailored items is generally exceptional.

Things to buy

• Clothing Milan, Rome, and other big cities are packed with high-end designer fashion boutiques, chic outlets, and tailors. Wherever you are in Italy, you're guaranteed to get the latest fashions straight from the catwalks of Europe.
• Colorful ceramics Vibrant, hand-painted ceramic bowls, jugs, and glasses can be found in the shops and markets of the Amalfi Coast and Sicily – a perfect reminder of the Mediterranean. If you do happen to head to the island of Murano in Venice, be sure to check out their renowned glassware.
• Masks Venice is filled with shops selling elaborate, handcrafted masquerade masks. These colorful creations look great hung on walls and are a true Venetian keepsake.
• Leather footwear, bags and accessories Florence and Rome are hotspots for sourcing gorgeous handmade leather items. Splash out on an 'investment purchase' – a leather handbag that will last a lifetime. You deserve it.
• Italian foodstuffs Now, this one you’ve got to be careful with, but if you know your limits, you’ll be eating and drinking authentically when you arrive home. Infused olive oils, syrupy balsamic vinegar, local dried pasta, limoncello, and more – all (likely) fine to pack carefully in your luggage and take home. Be careful with anything fresh or unsealed, though, or you might be in for a hefty fine if you try to get them back home.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country.

Festivals and events

Keep the ‘festa’ (or party) going in Italy with festivals and events all around the country. If there’s something going on in Italy, you know that food and drink is somehow involved, too.

Regata Storica di Venezia (Venice Historical Regatta)

For four days, Venice’s romantic gondolas take second place on the scenic canals to races featuring the world’s best rowers. Dating back to the 13th century, this historic event is held on the first Sunday of September each year.

Natale di Roma (Rome’s Birthday Celebrations)

Every April, Rome throws itself an epic birthday bash and parties like it’s 753 BC. Gladiator battles, historic re-enactments, equestrian events, parades, and concerts are all part of this three-day throwback to ancient Roman times.

Pasqua (Easter)

Beautifully decorated shop windows, colorful painted eggs, church services, parades, feasts, and fireworks make Easter a wonderful time to visit and immerse yourself in traditional Italian cultures. A huge Easter celebration mass is held at St Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican, followed by an address from the Pope at noon. Many festive recipes are also rolled out for Easter, including the colomba—a dove-shaped cake flavored with almond.

Each city may celebrate differently, but Carnevale festivities in the lead-up to Lent are always a raucous affair in Italy. Venice celebrates with masked parties. Viareggio opts for parades featuring floats, costumes, and enormous papier-mache puppets, and Turin hosts the Battle of the Oranges – a spectacular food fight with, you guessed it, oranges.

Verona Opera Festival

The country that gave the world opera hosts the oldest opera festival in Verona each summer in the historic Verona Arena, a massive first-century Roman amphitheater.

Read more about festivals in Italy

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

Easter Sunday (Pasqua)

Liberation Day

Republic Day

Feast of the Assumption

All Saint’s Day

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

St Stephen’s Day

Please note that the dates of  Italy's public holidays  may vary.

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Italy adventure, check out these books:

• The Name of the Rose – Umberto Eco
• I’m Not Scared – Niccolo Ammaniti
• The Divine Comedy – Dante Alighieri
• Naples ‘44 – Norman Lewis
• Call Me By Your Name – Andre Aciman
• The Sicilian – Mario Puzo
• Ancient Rome: The Rise and Fall of an Empire – Simon Baker
• A Thousand Days in Venice – Marlena de Blasi

Italy travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do you need a visa for Italy?

Generally, you will not need a visa to travel to Italy for a period of up to 90 days. Some citizens of a select few nationalities may need to obtain a Schengen visa before traveling to Italy. For more information, contact the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country.

This page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 06/06/2023

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Is tipping customary in Italy?

Tipping isn’t customary in Italy, but it is appreciated. Feel free to leave a small amount if the service has been particularly good. Some restaurants will add a cover charge or ‘servizio’ to your bill.

What is the internet access like in Italy?

Italy, like the rest of Europe , is well connected. Wi-fi is almost always available at larger hotels and guesthouses, either included in your room price, or for a small additional fee. Some smaller accommodations, such as rural guesthouses and homestays, may not have wi-fi available, or the signal may be patchy.

Many fast food chains, bars and restaurants also offer wi-fi connectivity, often with an access code located on a purchase receipt. Look out for the international wi-fi symbol, or politely ask a waiter if the option is available. Some major Italian cities also offer public wi-fi hotspots with registration.

If you do not have your own device, there are still some internet cafes in Italy’s major cities.

Can I use my cell phone while in Italy?

Cell coverage is generally good in Italy. Your best (and often cheapest) option is to purchase a local SIM card when arriving in Italy if your phone is compatible and unlocked.

There is also the option to activate global roaming with your service provider before leaving home. Check the roaming charges before you leave home, as this option can often be highly expensive.

What are the toilets like in Italy?

Western-style flushable toilets are the norm in Italy.

Public toilets are not in abundance in Italy, so your best bet is to use the facilities in museums, galleries, department stores, train stations and restaurants. You may have to pay a small fee to use public toilets – ranging from around EUR 0.50 to EUR 2.

Can I drink the water in Italy?

Drinking water from taps in Italy is generally considered safe. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Italy?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by stores in Italy. Smaller cafes, shops and markets may not accept credit cards, and smaller museums or galleries may charge an entry fee in cash only, so ensure you carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in Italy?

ATMs are common in Italy, so finding one won't be a problem in most towns and cities. Beware of transaction fees that ATMs charge and the conversion rates they may offer, as they are often much worse than what your card offers.

Is Italy safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Italy is mostly a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers. Same-sex relationships are legal and are largely accepted, with civil unions entrenched in law since 2016. Same-sex marriage is currently not legal. There are some anti-discrimination laws to protect sexual orientation and gender identity.

In more rural and regional areas, overt displays of affection can attract negative responses in smaller towns, which tend to be more conservative. Rome, Milan and Bologna have the largest gay scenes, and Florence and Naples have a handful of LGBTQIA+-friendly venues too.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex  or  ILGA before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

When is the best time to visit Italy?

Italy enjoys a temperate climate most of the year, with June, July and August the warmest months. Popular tourist spots get very busy and crowded during the European summer, but don’t let that deter you – the sun will be shining, and the gelato will be served icy cold.

The shoulder seasons of April–May and September–October offer great conditions for travel, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds at main sights and beaches. Even though it’s not as hot, you’re still set for some warmer conditions and more pleasant temperatures to walk around cities like Rome and Florence.

It can get quite cold in the winter months, especially in the north, with cities like Milan, Turin and Venice often seeing snow, fog and rain in December and January. Major coastal tourist spots like the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre can be very quiet during winter with many establishments closing at this time, so it might be best to visit in the warmer months if these places interest you.

What is the weather like in Italy?

As you can tell from a world map, Italy is a pretty long country compared to its European neighbors. This gives it one of the more diverse climates in Europe , with mountainous zones in the north and dry arid landscapes in the south graced with all different types of weather.

Much of the inland northern regions have harsh winters and hot summers, while coastal areas of Liguria, Tuscany and the south of Italy generally fit that Mediterranean stereotype, with hot and dry summers and mild winters. The east coast of the Italian peninsula is not as wet as the west coast, but in winter, the east coast is usually colder.

Generally, Italy’s hottest month in the south is August and can reach upwards of 104°F, while the north hits its peak in July and has slightly milder maximums. January is the coldest month throughout the country.

What to pack for Italy?

You’ll need to consider the time of year you want to travel, plus the places you’re travelling to so you can work out what you should wear in Italy.

In summer, loose-fitting cotton clothing like light t-shirts and shorts or light trousers, is recommended no matter what part of the country you’re in. During the transitioning seasons of April-May and September-October, packing a jacket and long pants is encouraged so you can layer, if needed.

Winter brings snow and sub-zero temperatures to the north of the country, so if you’re travelling in Milan or the Piedmont region, pack warm clothing, such as thermals and thick jackets. A scarf and gloves are encouraged too. For the south, you may not need all the heavy stuff, but having warm, windproof and waterproof gear is advisable.

If you wish to visit the Sistine Chapel and other churches and religious sites in the Vatican City and beyond, it is highly recommended that men and women wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees, any time of year. If you are found to be wearing immodest clothing by security guards or staff, you will be denied entry.

Read more about weather in Italy

Is Italy accessible for travellers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, whatever physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help choose the most suitable itinerary and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Despite Italy’s charm and old-town feel, travelers with mobility and sight or hearing impairments may find it difficult to travel around the country independently. Old cobbled streets and pavements blocked by parked cars are the norm, making it difficult for wheelchair users.

Despite this, much of Italy’s public transport system is mobility friendly. The service ‘Sala Blu’ (Blue Hall) is provided to travellers who require assistance at the 14 main train stations around Italy. These services include providing a wheelchair, a representative to accompany you to your train, another to meet at the other end, lift service to get on and off the train, and free use of baggage trolleys.

Many of Italy’s most-visited attractions, like the Colosseum, Vatican museums and the Uffizi Gallery, are almost entirely wheelchair accessible, with ramps and lifts available. Venice may be considered the least accessible, but it is possible. Bridges between canals should be avoided, but vaporettos (or water taxis) can be used, especially the routes along the Grand Canal.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

What kind of accommodation will I be staying in?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When traveling with us in Italy you may find yourself staying in a:

Agriturismo (farmstay)

Your time in Italy is further enhanced with an agriturismo, or farmstay, experience. Immerse yourself in a picturesque setting overlooking the countryside, with food and relaxation the main focus.

How will I be traveling around Italy?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport – which usually have less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in Italy, you may find yourself traveling by bicycle.

Whether it’s riding through fields of grass scattered with wildflowers or past quaint buildings down cobblestone lanes, taking a quick spin around town or tackling the towering Dolomites, two wheels open up so many options.

What better way to see Italy’s island of Sardinia or the Amalfi coast than on a small-group sailing adventure? Cruise past idyllic islands to fabulous shore stops dotted around the Mediterranean.

Does my trip to Italy support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Italy directly support our foundation partner, Cooperativa Coraggio.

Cooperativa Coraggio

Cooperativa Coraggio set up agricultural projects on unused public land to create local jobs and produce organic food in communities in Italy. Donations from our trips help their regeneration project on 22 hectares of land at Borghetto San Carlo Estate, located on the outskirts of Rome.  

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

• Switzerland
• New Zealand
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Tours to Italy

A holiday to Italy guarantees understated gems around every corner, from charming piazzas to hidden gardens. Whether you're into historical architecture and art or walking amongst rolling hills and vineyards, we've got a trip for you.

Ways to explore Italy

Walking and trekking, food and drink, explore upgraded, rail journeys, multi-activity, popular italy trip searches, amalfi coast tours, walking in italy, cycling in italy, family trips in italy, discover our italy tours.

From colourful hilltop houses in Cinque Terre to rolling Tuscan hills scattered with vineyards, Italy is rich in culture and history. And of course it’s famous for its food and drink – there’s no place for diets with stone-baked pizza, fresh pasta and world-class wines on offer.

Whether you’re  walking the Amalfi Coast  or exploring Roman ruins in  Sicily   on our small group tours, our  local tour leader  will show you the must-sees of Italy, as well as the hidden gems we have uncovered. Discover unique Trulli houses and medieval towns by bike in Puglia or hike the village trails around Lake Garda - with so much variety in one country, which Italy tour will you choose?

If you're new to Explore, check out our blog answering some of the  most-asked questions about small group travel . 

Our most popular tours in Italy

Amalfi coast walking - agriturismo.

Classical Sicily

Upgraded - Walking Italy: Rome & Umbria

Highlights of Puglia

A Taste of Tuscany - Hilltop Towns and Vineyards

Cycle Dolomites, Lake Garda and Venice

Family Tuscany Multi-Activity Adventure

Lake Como Walking

Venice to Rome by Rail

Rome, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast

Venice to Rome by Rail + Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast

Family Sicily Multi-Activity Adventure

Amalfi Coast Walking - Hotel Risorgimento

Ancient Sicily

Hiking in the Dolomites

Cycle Puglia

Walking in Sardinia

Tuscany Walking and Wine

A Taste of Italy - Walking in Emilia Romagna

A Taste of Italy - Walking in Puglia

Tour du Mont Blanc Trek

Cycling in Italy - Cilento to the Amalfi Coast

Walking In Sicily

A Taste of Sicily - Palermo to Syracusa

Italy tour highlights

We've got a wide range of small group Italy holidays on offer, from  walking the Amalfi coast  to  cycling in the Dolomites ,  family activity holidays in Tuscany  to  tours of the historic sites of Sicily .   

Our tours offer a huge range of experiences across Italy, but some of the highlights include:   

Amalfi Coast

Head to the sun-drenched coast for quintessential Italian landscapes. Popular with hikers, the scenic 'Path of the Gods' trail hugs the picturesque coastline and rewards walkers with breathtaking views out to sea. Our popular small-group  Amalfi Coast walking trip  includes the 'Path of the Gods' as well as a ridge walk with views to Mount Vesuvius and a trip to the island of Capri.

Another option to explore the area is to  cycle to the Amalfi Coast  from Cilento National Park, stopping along the way to explore ancient ruins and try local food. And for less walking and more time exploring the cultural sites our  Highlights of Naples and the Amalfi Coast  trip includes a guided tour of Pompeii and Herculaneum, a visit to the fascinating cave dwellings of Sassi di Matera and a mouth-watering cheese and wine tasting.

Located in the 'heel' of Italy, Puglia is known for it's whitewashed hill towns and unique trulli houses - dry stone huts with conical roofs. It's also one of the best places to visit for delicious traditional Italian food. No matter whether you choose a  cultural ,  walking  or  cycling  trip in Puglia, food and drink will be a focal point in the itinerary. From pasta-making classes and olive oil tasting to cheese and wine experiences, you're guaranteed not to go hungry!

A Mediterranean island just off the coast of Italy, Sicily is home to captivating Ancient Greek ruins and the mighty Mount Etna, Europe's highest and most active volcano. If you're into history spend a week exploring the historic sites, including the impressive Valley of the Temples, on the popular  Classical Sicily  tour. Or our two-week  Ancient Sicily  trip covers more of the island including the Neapolis Archaeological Zone. 

We also offer an exciting  volcanic hiking trip  with specialist volcanology guide Luca Cosma. You'll hike around the summit crater of Mount Etna and among lava flows and visit the Aeolian Island of Stromboli to see the volcanic activity at night - a sight you'll surely never forget.  

Head to central Italy for views of rolling hills packed with vineyards and topped with medieval towns. We offer walking trips in Tuscany where you'll get to hike through this peaceful landscape and enjoy the local wine from the vineyards. 

Join our  Family Activity Adventure Holiday  to enjoy kayaking, trekking, zip-lining, canyoning and more with your kids. Plus you'll get to walk along the stunning Cinque Terre coast with its scenic hilltop trails and charming seaside towns. 

The Italian Lakes

Discover the scenic Italian Lakes by foot or by bike. We offer small-group trips like our  Lake Como walking trip  and  Cycle Dolomites, Lake Garda and Venice  tour.   

Solo tours in Italy

All of our Italy holidays are suitable for solo travellers. Around half of our customers travel solo so you certainly won't be the only person travelling on your own. Our small-group tours offer great opportunities to meet like-minded travellers and share your experiences. 

An adventure travel company you can trust

Unforgettable experiences.

From big wows to hidden gems, our tours leave you feeling that you've really explored.

Expert tour leaders

Chosen for their great knowledge of your destination and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.

Small groups

Average groups of 11; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.

Responsible at heart

How we operate sets us apart; our flexible booking policy, our loyalty scheme & sustainable approach.

Italy tour reviews

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Need some inspiration for your Italy tour?

8 Highlights of Italy

5 best walking holidays in Italy

A taste of Italy: 5 best trips for foodies

Italy - 5 best trips for culture vultures

Italy Tours And Packages

Walk the amalfi coast, discover sicily's ancient ruins and cycle through vineyards in tuscany, popular tours.

Walking the Amalfi Coast - 8 Days

• Agerola to Agerola
• Age group: 16 - 99
• Max group size: 16

Italy Experience - 10 Days

• Venice to Rome
• Age group: 15 - 99
• Max group size: 12

Walks of the Cinque Terre and Portofino - 8 Days

• Moneglia to Moneglia
• Max group size: 15

Best of Italy - 14 Days

• Rome to Venice

Ultimate Italy - 14 Days

• Age group: 12 - 100

Best of Italy: Tuscany, Cinque Terre & The Amalfi Coast - 13 Days

• Florence to Naples

Italy Family Packages

Sicily tours, tuscany tours, cinque terre tours, italy tours & packages.

Welcome to Italy, a country that captures the essence of romance, history, and breathtaking beauty. Embark on an unforgettable journey with our Italy tours and holidays, designed to immerse you in the enchanting allure of this Mediterranean gem. From the ancient ruins of Rome to the sun-kissed coasts of the Amalfi, from the Renaissance treasures of Florence to the canal-lined streets of Venice, Italy offers a tapestry of experiences that will leave you spellbound.

Italy is a country that pulsates with life, exuding a vibrant energy that seamlessly blends the old with the new. It is a land of contrasts, where ancient ruins stand alongside modern architecture, and where art, fashion, and gastronomy thrive in perfect harmony. As you traverse its diverse regions, you'll encounter a myriad of cultural treasures and iconic landmarks that have shaped history and captivated the world.

Begin your journey in Rome, the eternal city that effortlessly blends the grandeur of the past with the pulse of the present. Explore the awe-inspiring Colosseum, wander through the Roman Forum, and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain for good luck. Marvel at the artistry of Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, a sovereign state within Rome, and immerse yourself in the spiritual aura of St. Peter's Basilica.

Continue your adventure to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, where the legacy of great artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo permeates the city's museums, galleries, and streets. Admire the iconic Duomo, wander through the historic center, and revel in the beauty of the Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces like Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus."

No visit to Italy is complete without experiencing the captivating charm of Venice. Embark on a gondola ride along its enchanting canals, traverse the iconic Rialto Bridge, and wander through the labyrinthine streets of this floating city. Lose yourself in the romantic ambiance, as Venetian masks, exquisite glassware, and tantalizing cicchetti beckon from every corner.

As you venture south, the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast await. Marvel at the rolling vineyards and medieval towns of Tuscany, where the famous Chianti wine flows freely and culinary delights abound. Indulge in delectable Tuscan cuisine, sip world-class wines, and immerse yourself in the idyllic countryside.

On the Amalfi Coast, discover a paradise where turquoise waters meet rugged cliffs adorned with colorful villages. Visit the charming town of Positano, with its pastel-hued houses cascading down the cliffs, or explore the historic ruins of Pompeii, frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

Italy is also a gastronomic haven, where every bite is a revelation. Indulge in traditional Italian pasta dishes, savor the creamy gelato, and sample the finest wines from vineyards that have been producing nectar for centuries. From the aromatic truffles of Piedmont to the fresh seafood of Sicily, Italian cuisine is a celebration of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of Italy, where art, history, and natural beauty converge. Lose yourself in the narrow streets of ancient towns, bask in the golden glow of sunset over the Tuscan countryside, and let the melodic sounds of Italian opera transport you to another world. With our Italy tours and holidays, you'll experience the timeless allure of a country that has inspired poets, artists, and dreamers for centuries.

Uncover the magic of Italy with us, where each step reveals a new chapter in an unforgettable story. Let us guide you through this land of passion, where history, art, and beauty intertwine to create an experience that will leave an indelible mark on your soul. Embark on an Italy tour or holiday and discover the enchantment of this extraordinary country.

When is the best time to visit Italy?

The best time to visit Italy depends on your preferences and the experiences you're seeking. Italy has a diverse climate, with regional variations, so the ideal time to visit may vary based on the specific cities or regions you plan to explore. Here's a breakdown of the different seasons in Italy:

Spring (April to June): Spring is generally a delightful time to visit Italy. The weather is mild and pleasant, with blooming flowers and lush landscapes. The crowds are relatively smaller compared to the peak summer season, making it an excellent time for sightseeing and exploring popular attractions. However, keep in mind that April and May can still have occasional rain showers.

Summer (June to August): The summer months bring warm weather, longer days, and a lively atmosphere throughout Italy. This is the peak tourist season, particularly in popular destinations like Rome, Florence, and the coastal areas. It's the perfect time for beach holidays and outdoor activities. However, be prepared for larger crowds, higher prices, and hotter temperatures, especially in southern Italy.

Autumn (September to October): Autumn in Italy offers pleasant weather with cooler temperatures, making it an excellent time to visit. The summer crowds start to dwindle, and you can still enjoy sunny days and explore the historical sites, cultural events, and culinary delights. The autumn foliage in regions like Tuscany and Umbria adds a stunning touch to the landscapes.

Winter (November to February): Winter in Italy is generally milder in the southern regions, while the northern parts and mountainous areas experience colder temperatures and even snowfall. It's a great time to visit if you want to experience fewer crowds, enjoy winter sports in the Italian Alps, or explore cities like Rome and Florence with a quieter ambiance. Winter is also the time for festive markets and cultural events, especially in December for Christmas celebrations.

Keep in mind that weather patterns can vary, and it's always advisable to check the specific climate of the regions you plan to visit. Additionally, popular tourist destinations tend to be busier during weekends and holiday periods regardless of the season. It's a good idea to plan and book accommodations and attractions in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

Do I need a visa to visit Italy?

The visa requirements for visiting Italy depend on your nationality and the purpose and duration of your stay. Here are some general guidelines:

European Union (EU) Citizens: Citizens of EU member countries do not need a visa to enter or stay in Italy. They have the right to travel freely within the Schengen Area, which includes Italy, for stays up to 90 days.

Non-EU Citizens: If you are not a citizen of an EU country, you may need a visa to enter Italy. The specific visa requirements vary depending on your nationality, so it's essential to check with the Italian embassy or consulate in your country or the relevant visa authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Schengen Visa: Italy is part of the Schengen Area, which comprises 26 European countries with a common visa policy. If you are a citizen of a country that is not exempt from the Schengen visa requirement, you will generally need to apply for a Schengen visa. This visa allows you to visit Italy and other Schengen countries for tourism or business purposes for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period.

Visa Exemptions: Some nationalities are exempt from the Schengen visa requirement for short-term visits. Citizens of certain countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and many others, can enter Italy and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. However, it's important to note that the purpose of the visit should be tourism, business, or other activities that do not involve work or study.

Long-Term Visits: If you plan to stay in Italy for more than 90 days, whether for work, study, or other purposes, you will generally need to apply for a long-term visa or a residence permit. The specific requirements and application process will depend on the purpose of your stay.

It's crucial to check the visa requirements well in advance of your planned trip and allow sufficient time for the visa application process. It's recommended to consult the official website of the Italian embassy or consulate in your country or contact the relevant visa authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding visa requirements and application procedures.

What are the must see places in Italy?

Italy is a treasure trove of captivating destinations, offering a rich blend of historical sites, cultural landmarks, breathtaking landscapes, and culinary delights. While the list of must-see places in Italy is extensive, here are some top recommendations:

Rome: The eternal city of Rome boasts iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican City (including St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel), and the Pantheon. Don't miss the chance to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain for good luck.

Florence: Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is a haven for art and architecture enthusiasts. The city showcases masterpieces like Michelangelo's David at the Galleria dell'Accademia and Botticelli's The Birth of Venus at the Uffizi Gallery. The Florence Cathedral (Duomo) and Ponte Vecchio are also must-visit attractions.

Venice: Venice, renowned for its canals and romantic ambiance, offers unique experiences. Explore St. Mark's Square, take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal, and visit the stunning St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. Don't forget to wander through the charming narrow streets and enjoy Venetian cuisine.

Amalfi Coast: The Amalfi Coast is a picturesque stretch of coastline dotted with colorful cliffside towns. The town of Amalfi itself, as well as Positano and Ravello, are highlights. Enjoy stunning views, relax on pebbly beaches, and savor fresh seafood while exploring this enchanting region.

Tuscany: Tuscany is synonymous with rolling hills, vineyards, and charming medieval towns. Florence, mentioned earlier, is the region's gem, but also explore the enchanting countryside with destinations like Siena, San Gimignano, and the Val d'Orcia, famous for its scenic landscapes.

Cinque Terre: Located on the Italian Riviera, the five villages of Cinque Terre (Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso) are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The colorful houses perched on cliffs overlooking the turquoise sea create an unforgettable setting.

Pompeii and Herculaneum: Step back in time with a visit to the ancient Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, both buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Explore the remarkably preserved ruins, including well-preserved houses, baths, and theaters.

Sicily: Italy's largest island, Sicily, offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Explore the ancient ruins of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, visit the enchanting town of Taormina, and savor the island's unique cuisine.

These are just a few highlights, and Italy has much more to offer, including the cities of Milan and Naples, the beautiful lakes region, the historical city of Verona, the stunning Dolomites, and the charming regions of Umbria and Puglia. Each region has its own unique attractions and experiences, so be sure to plan your itinerary based on your interests and the time you have available.

Can you tell me more about the walking tours?

Italy is a fantastic destination for our guided walking holidays, offering a perfect blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Here are some reasons why Italy is an excellent choice for guided walking tours:

Scenic Beauty: From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast and the breathtaking Dolomites, Italy boasts diverse and picturesque landscapes. Guided walking tours allow you to explore these scenic wonders on foot, immersing yourself in the beauty of the countryside, vineyards, coastal paths, and charming villages.

Rich History and Culture: Italy is a treasure trove of history, art, and culture. A guided walking holiday provides the opportunity to discover ancient ruins, medieval towns, Renaissance architecture, and iconic landmarks. Expert guides can offer fascinating insights into Italy's history, legends, and local traditions, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of the places you visit.

Culinary Delights: Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide, and guided walking tours often incorporate culinary experiences. You can savor authentic local dishes, visit wineries, taste olive oils, and indulge in regional specialties. The combination of walking and gastronomy creates a truly immersive and memorable experience.

Expert Guidance: Guided walking tours provide knowledgeable guides who are passionate about Italy and its hidden gems. They can offer valuable insights, share interesting stories, and take you off the beaten path to discover lesser-known destinations and local secrets. Their expertise ensures a well-planned itinerary, assistance with navigation, and access to insider knowledge.

Camaraderie and Group Atmosphere: Joining a guided walking holiday allows you to connect with like-minded travelers who share a love for exploration, nature, and culture. The group atmosphere creates opportunities for camaraderie, new friendships, and shared experiences, adding a social element to your journey.

Safety and Convenience: Guided walking holidays provide a level of comfort and convenience. You can rely on professional guides who ensure your safety during the walks, handle logistics, and provide support along the way. They select the best routes, arrange accommodations, and take care of transportation, allowing you to focus on enjoying the experience.

Whether you choose to walk the picturesque hills of Tuscany, the charming villages of Cinque Terre, or the rugged trails of the Dolomites, a guided walking holiday in Italy offers a unique and enriching experience. It combines the pleasures of walking amidst beautiful scenery, immersing yourself in history and culture, savouring delicious food and wine, and creating lasting memories.

The walking and trekking holidays cater for all abilities and levels of fitness which is depicted by the 'Physical Rating' each tour is scored on, 1 being the easiest and 5 the most challenging. Please contact our team if you'd like to find out more.

How fit do I need to be to walk the Amalfi coast?

Walking the Amalfi Coast can be a rewarding experience, but it does require a certain level of fitness. The difficulty of the walk will vary depending on the specific trails and routes you choose. The tours we feature are designed for pretty much anyone of average fitness. 

As well as your personal fitness level. Here are some factors to consider:

Terrain: The Amalfi Coast is characterised by steep hills, rugged cliffs, and narrow pathways. Some sections of the trails can be challenging, with steep ascents and descents. You may encounter uneven steps, rocky surfaces, and narrow paths along the way.

Elevation: The Amalfi Coast trails often involve significant elevation changes. You may be climbing up and down hills, which can put strain on your leg muscles and require endurance. It's important to be prepared for uphill and downhill sections during your walk.

Duration and Distance: The length and duration of your walk will depend on the specific route and itinerary you choose. The Amalfi Coast offers a variety of trails with different lengths and difficulty levels, ranging from short and easy walks to longer, more challenging hikes. Plan your itinerary based on your fitness level and consider the distances you feel comfortable walking each day.

Fitness Level: While you don't need to be an extreme athlete, it's beneficial to have a moderate level of fitness for walking the Amalfi Coast. Regular cardiovascular exercise, such as walking, hiking, or stair climbing, can help improve your endurance and prepare you for the challenging terrain. Strengthening exercises for your legs, such as squats or lunges, can also be beneficial.

Pace and Rest Stops: It's important to listen to your body and pace yourself accordingly. Take breaks and rest stops as needed, especially during steep or challenging sections. Stay hydrated, wear comfortable walking shoes, and dress appropriately for the weather conditions.

If you're unsure about your fitness level or have any concerns, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before embarking on a walking trip along the Amalfi Coast. They can provide personalised advice based on your individual fitness and health status.

Remember that walking the Amalfi Coast is not just about the physical challenge; it's also an opportunity to enjoy the stunning scenery, charming towns, and cultural experiences along the way. Take your time, enjoy the journey, and make sure to plan your itinerary to suit your fitness abilities and preferences.

Is Italy a safe destination to visit?

Yes, Italy is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. The country has a well-developed tourism infrastructure and takes measures to ensure the safety and security of visitors. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take certain precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some tips:

Stay alert in crowded areas: Pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded tourist areas, particularly in popular cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice. Keep a close eye on your belongings, use a money belt or secure bag, and avoid displaying valuable items openly.

Be cautious with your personal belongings: Keep your passport, cash, and other important documents secure in a hotel safe. When exploring, carry only essential items and avoid keeping valuables in easily accessible pockets or bags.

Use reliable transportation options: Stick to licensed taxis, reputable car rental services, or public transportation when getting around. Be cautious of unlicensed or unofficial taxis, especially at airports and tourist hotspots.

Follow local laws and customs: Familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs of the areas you'll be visiting. Respect cultural norms, dress appropriately when visiting religious sites, and be mindful of local customs and traditions.

Stay informed about local conditions: Check travel advisories and stay updated on any current events or situations that may affect your travel plans. It's always advisable to register with your embassy or consulate for any travel alerts or notifications.

Take precautions against scams: Be cautious of common scams targeting tourists, such as fake police officers, unauthorized tour guides, or overly aggressive street vendors. Use official tourism information centers and authorized guides for reliable assistance.

Practice general safety measures: Use common sense and practice basic safety measures like avoiding isolated areas at night, staying in well-lit and populated areas, and being aware of your surroundings.

While Italy is generally safe, it's important to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure your personal safety and security. By staying informed, being mindful of your belongings, and respecting local customs, you can have a memorable and enjoyable trip to Italy.

The emergency numbers are 118 Ambulance, 115 Firefighters, 113 Police.

Do I require any vaccinations to visit Italy?

 At the time of writing there are no specific vaccinations required for entry into Italy. However, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or travel medicine specialist before your trip to get the most up-to-date information and recommendations based on your individual health status and any specific concerns.

Routine vaccinations, such as measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTaP), varicella (chickenpox), and the seasonal influenza vaccine, should be up to date for all travelers. Additionally, hepatitis A and B vaccines are recommended for most travelers, as these diseases can be transmitted through contaminated food or water or through sexual contact.

Depending on the specific activities you plan to engage in and the regions you'll be visiting within Italy, additional vaccinations may be recommended. For example, if you'll be spending a significant amount of time in rural areas or participating in outdoor activities, you might consider getting vaccinated against tick-borne encephalitis or getting a tetanus booster.

It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional or visit a travel health clinic well in advance of your trip to discuss your itinerary, receive personalizsd advice, and ensure that you are up to date with all the necessary vaccinations.

Remember to also take standard health and hygiene precautions during your trip, such as practicing good hand hygiene, consuming safe and clean food and water, and protecting yourself against insect bites.

What is the currency of Italy and how can I access my money?

The currency of Italy is the Euro (€). It is widely accepted throughout the country, and you'll find ATMs, banks, and exchange offices in most cities and towns.

Here are some tips on accessing your money in Italy:

Cash: While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in many establishments, it's always a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller businesses, local markets, and smaller towns where card acceptance may be limited. ATMs are widely available, and you can withdraw cash in Euros using your debit or credit card. Be aware that some ATMs may charge a fee for international transactions, so it's advisable to check with your bank regarding any applicable fees or charges.

Credit and Debit Cards: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, shops, and larger establishments in Italy. Cards with the Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Maestro logos are generally accepted. It's a good idea to notify your bank or credit card company of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with your cards being blocked for suspicious activity.

Currency Exchange: If you prefer to exchange currency, you can do so at banks, exchange offices, and some post offices in Italy. Banks typically offer competitive rates, but they may have limited operating hours, so it's advisable to check their schedules in advance. Exchange offices can also be found in tourist areas and airports, but they may charge higher fees or have less favorable rates compared to banks.

Traveler's Cheques: Traveler's cheques are not widely used in Italy, and it may be challenging to find places that accept them. It's generally more convenient to rely on a combination of cash and cards for your financial needs.

Security Precautions: When accessing your money, it's important to take standard security precautions. Use ATMs located in well-lit and busy areas, shield your PIN when entering it, and be cautious of anyone trying to assist you with the machine. Keep your cash and cards secure and avoid displaying large amounts of money in public.

Remember to check with your bank or financial institution before your trip to inform them of your travel plans, confirm your card's international usage, and inquire about any associated fees or charges.

Is a tour of Italy a good for a family holiday?

Yes, an Italy tour can be a fantastic family holiday! Italy offers a wide range of attractions and experiences that cater to different interests and age groups, making it an excellent destination for families. Here are some reasons why Italy is a great choice for a family holiday:

Rich Cultural and Historical Heritage: Italy is steeped in history, art, and culture, offering numerous educational opportunities for children and adults alike. From ancient Roman ruins like the Colosseum in Rome to Renaissance masterpieces in Florence, there are plenty of landmarks and museums to explore that can spark curiosity and learning.

Family-Friendly Cities: Italian cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice are relatively compact and easy to navigate, making them suitable for family exploration. There are pedestrian-friendly areas, parks, and attractions that are enjoyable for all ages. Children can immerse themselves in the history and legends of ancient civilizations, visit interactive museums, and delight in gelato tastings.

Scenic Landscapes and Outdoor Activities: Italy boasts breathtaking landscapes, from the picturesque Amalfi Coast to the rolling hills of Tuscany. Families can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or exploring the countryside together. Coastal regions offer opportunities for swimming, boat rides, and beach relaxation.

Culinary Delights: Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide, and it can be a delightful experience for the whole family. Children can savor delicious pizza, pasta, gelato, and other Italian specialties. Many cities offer cooking classes or food tours specifically designed for families, allowing everyone to learn about local ingredients and culinary traditions.

Festivals and Celebrations: Italy hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, which can be exciting for families to experience. From vibrant carnival celebrations in Venice to colorful processions during Easter or lively local festivals, there is always something happening that showcases Italian culture and traditions.

Family-Oriented Accommodations: Italy offers a range of family-friendly accommodations, including hotels, apartments, and farm stays. Many establishments provide amenities like family rooms, playgrounds, and swimming pools to cater to the needs of families traveling with children.

When planning your family holiday in Italy, consider the interests and ages of your children and choose activities and attractions that will engage and entertain them. It's also important to pace your itinerary, allowing for breaks and relaxation time. With its combination of history, art, nature, and culinary delights, Italy can provide a memorable and enjoyable holiday for the whole family.

Is Italy a good destination for solo travellers?

Yes, Italy is a wonderful destination for solo travellers. With its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine, Italy offers a wealth of experiences that can be enjoyed independently. Here are some reasons why Italy is a great choice for solo travellers:

Safe and Welcoming: Italy is generally considered a safe country for travellers, including solo travellers. The locals are known for their hospitality and friendliness, and you're likely to encounter warm welcomes and helpful gestures along your journey.

Rich Cultural Heritage: Italy is home to countless historical and cultural treasures, including ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and magnificent architecture. Exploring the cities and towns on your own allows you to immerse yourself at your own pace, taking in the art, history, and cultural nuances that make Italy so special.

Vibrant Cities: Italian cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice offer a bustling atmosphere with a mix of iconic landmarks, lively markets, charming streets, and vibrant nightlife. Solo travellers can enjoy the freedom to wander, discover hidden gems, and soak up the unique atmosphere of each city.

Scenic Landscapes: From the picturesque Amalfi Coast to the rolling hills of Tuscany and the stunning lakes in the north, Italy is blessed with breathtaking landscapes. Solo travellers can take advantage of the freedom to explore the countryside, go on hikes, take scenic train rides, or simply relax and enjoy the natural beauty.

Culinary Delights: Italy is a paradise for food lovers, and solo travellers can fully indulge in the country's culinary offerings. From savouring authentic pizzas and pasta dishes to indulging in gelato and exploring local markets, you can embark on a gastronomic journey and discover the diverse regional cuisines on your own terms.

Cultural Experiences: Italy offers a range of cultural experiences that are perfect for solo travellers. Attend a local festival, join a cooking class, take language lessons, or participate in a guided tour to learn more about Italian traditions, customs, and ways of life. Engaging with locals and fellow travellers can enhance your solo travel experience.

Ease of Transportation: Italy has a well-connected transportation system, making it easy for solo travellers to navigate the country. Trains, buses, and domestic flights provide efficient and reliable options for getting around, allowing you to explore multiple destinations with ease.

As a solo traveler, you have the freedom to set your own itinerary, explore at your own pace, and connect with fellow travellers along the way. Whether you're seeking art and history, culinary delights, natural beauty, or a mix of everything, Italy offers a wealth of experiences that can be enjoyed independently.

What are the must-try Italian foods?

Italy is renowned for its delicious cuisine, and there are numerous must-try dishes that showcase the country's culinary excellence. Here are some iconic Italian foods that you should definitely try when visiting Italy:

Pizza: Originating from Naples, pizza is a classic Italian dish loved worldwide. Thin, crispy crust topped with fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and a variety of toppings make it a must-try food. Whether you prefer the classic Margherita or opt for a creative combination, indulging in authentic Italian pizza is a must.

Pasta: Italy is famous for its diverse pasta dishes, each region having its own specialties. From spaghetti carbonara and fettuccine Alfredo in Rome to tagliatelle al ragù in Bologna and pesto pasta in Liguria, you'll find an abundance of pasta varieties and sauces to satisfy your taste buds.

Gelato: No trip to Italy is complete without savouring some gelato. This smooth and creamy Italian ice cream comes in a wide array of flavours, made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Whether you prefer classics like chocolate and vanilla or more adventurous flavours like pistachio or stracciatella, gelato is a sweet treat you shouldn't miss.

Risotto: Risotto is a beloved Italian dish made with Arborio or Carnaroli rice cooked in a flavourful broth. The creamy and comforting texture can be enhanced with various ingredients such as mushrooms, saffron, seafood, or vegetables, offering a delightful combination of flavours.

Espresso and Italian Coffee: Italy is renowned for its coffee culture, and indulging in a rich, aromatic espresso or a frothy cappuccino is a quintessential Italian experience. Whether you enjoy your coffee at a local café or sip it at a bustling espresso bar, the quality and craftsmanship of Italian coffee are unparalleled.

Caprese Salad: This simple yet delightful salad highlights the freshness of Italian ingredients. Made with ripe tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, it's a refreshing dish that embodies the flavours of the Mediterranean.

Tiramisu: Tiramisu is a popular Italian dessert made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone cheese, and dusted with cocoa powder. Its velvety texture and rich flavours make it a decadent treat to enjoy after a meal.

These are just a few examples of the incredible variety of Italian cuisine. Each region has its own specialties and culinary traditions, so be sure to explore the local dishes and flavors wherever you go. Embrace the opportunity to try authentic Italian foods, and you'll discover a gastronomic journey that will leave a lasting impression.

Can I drink the tap water in Italy?

In Italy, tap water is generally safe to drink. The country has a well-developed water infrastructure, and the tap water is subject to regular testing and treatment to ensure its quality meets the standards set by the Italian authorities.

In most cities and towns, tap water is of good quality and can be consumed without any concerns. It is safe to use for drinking, cooking, and brushing your teeth. The water is typically clean, clear, and has a pleasant taste.

However, it's important to note that there may be some regional variations in water quality, especially in more rural or remote areas. In such cases, locals may prefer to drink bottled water or use water filters. If you're unsure about the water quality in a specific location, it's best to ask the locals or the staff at your accommodation for their advice.

If you prefer to have bottled water, it is readily available for purchase at supermarkets, convenience stores, and other retail outlets throughout Italy.

As a general guideline, it is recommended to check with the local authorities or consult with your accommodation provider to get the most up-to-date information about the tap water quality in the specific area you plan to visit. They can provide you with the necessary guidance regarding drinking water sources during your stay in Italy.

How does the rooming work on tours?

Small group tours in Italy typically involve a set itinerary where you travel with a group of fellow travellers and a tour leader/guide. Accommodation arrangements  vary depending on the specific tour you choose. Here are some common aspects of rooming arrangements on small group tours:

Shared Rooms: In order to promote camaraderie and facilitate interaction among group members, most tours arrange shared accommodation. This means you will be paired with another member of the same gender from the group to share a room. Roommates may sometimes change periodically throughout the tour.

Single Supplement: If you prefer to have your own room and privacy, you may have the option to pay a single supplement fee. This additional fee allows you to have your own room for the duration of the tour. However, please note that single supplements can vary in cost and availability.

Roommate Matching: Tour operators usually offer roommate matching services, where they try to pair you with a suitable roommate based on your preferences, such as age range. This can help ensure compatibility and a more enjoyable experience for all participants.

Rooming Preferences: When booking your small group tour, it's important to communicate your rooming preferences to the tour operator. If you have specific requirements or preferences, such as sharing with a friend or a specific roommate request, it's advisable to inform the tour operator during the booking process.

It's important to carefully read the tour details and inclusions provided by the tour operator to understand their specific rooming policies. If having your own room is a priority, make sure to inquire about the availability of single supplements and any associated costs before booking your tour.

Keep in mind that while sharing a room with a fellow traveller can be a great way to meet new people and build connections, having your own room provides more privacy and flexibility. Consider your preferences and the dynamics of the tour when deciding whether to opt for a shared room or pay for a single supplement.

Remember to communicate your needs and preferences clearly with the tour operator during the booking process to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable accommodation experience on your small group tour in Italy.

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The Best Italy Itinerary Awaits – Discover The Unparalleled Charm!

Everything you need to know about your trip.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Italy with the best Italy itinerary, a 2-week adventure that showcases the country’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine.

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• Your Adventures Northern Italy Itinerary

Get ready to explore iconic cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, discover picturesque towns along the Amalfi Coast, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Tuscany. From the ancient ruins to Renaissance masterpieces, from charming canals to rolling vineyards, this itinerary will take you on an extraordinary exploration of the best that Italy has to offer.

table of content

When is the Best Time to Visit Italy

The best times to follow the best Italy Itinerary is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the crowds are less overwhelming compared to peak summer months.

How Many Days Should You Stay in Italy?

Stay in Italy for at least two weeks to enjoy the best roundtrip experience. This duration allows you to immerse yourself in the country’s rich culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Don’t rush your journey; savor each moment as you indulge in Italy’s culinary delights and soak in its unparalleled beauty.

This is the best Italy itinerary for 20 Days!

Lets get ready for the best Italy itinerary of your life and experience the most awesome trip throughout this special country!

Day 1-3: Florence – The Cradle of the Renaissance

Hotel Recommendation: Portrait Firenze ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Florence, the heart of Tuscany, is a living museum of art and architecture. As you wander through its enchanting streets, you’ll be surrounded by awe-inspiring landmarks at every turn. The Florence Cathedral , also known as the Duomo, with its iconic red dome, dominates the city’s skyline and is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture . Inside, you’ll find stunning frescoes and intricate marble work that will leave you in awe.

No visit to Florence is complete without exploring the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery . Home to a vast collection of Renaissance art , including masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael, this museum is a treasure trove of artistic excellence.

Another must-see is Michelangelo’s David , housed in the Accademia Gallery . The statue’s imposing presence and meticulous attention to detail make it an enduring symbol of human achievement .

After immersing yourself in the city’s cultural heritage , take a leisurely stroll through the Oltrarno district. This neighborhood is known for its artisan workshops, where skilled craftsmen create beautiful leather goods, ceramics, and jewelry. Explore the charming Piazza Santo Spirito , a favorite spot among locals , and indulge in traditional Tuscan cuisine at one of the delightful trattorias.

Day 4-5: Siena – Tuscany’s Timeless Beauty

Hotel Recommendation: Grand Hotel Continental ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A short drive from Florence, Siena awaits with its medieval charm and captivating history. The centerpiece of the city is the Piazza del Campo, a beautiful shell-shaped square where the famous Palio horse race takes place twice a year. Surrounded by stunning palaces, this is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in Sienese life.

The Siena Cathedral , a magnificent example of Italian Gothic architecture, is a masterpiece adorned with sculptures and intricate mosaics. Climb the impressive bell tower for breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding Tuscan countryside.

As you wander through the labyrinthine streets, you’ll come across quaint boutiques and artisan workshops, where you can find unique souvenirs and traditional Sienese delicacies.

For a taste of authentic Tuscan cuisine, head to Osteria Le Logge , a charming restaurant known for its mouthwatering dishes made with locally sourced ingredients . Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of Chianti, one of the region’s famous wines.

Day 6-7: Rome – The Eternal City

Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Artemide ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rome, the Eternal City, is a captivating blend of ancient history and modern life. Start your adventure at the Colosseum , where gladiators once battled, and the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome. Marvel at the grandeur of the Pantheon, a perfectly preserved temple dedicated to the gods .

Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to Rome, then head to the Spanish Steps to indulge in some retail therapy at the nearby luxury boutiques.

Rome’s culinary scene is a delight for foodies. Visit Trattoria da Teo , a local favorite, to savor classic Roman dishes like cacio e pepe and carbonara . Be sure to treat yourself to some gelato from the city’s delicous gelaterias like Come il Latte .

As the sun sets, the vibrant Trastevere district comes alive with its narrow streets, charming squares, and lively atmosphere . Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll and dine at one of the trattorias, where you can experience the true spirit of Roman hospitality.

Day 8-9: Sorrento – Gateway to the Amalfi Coast

Hotel Recommendation: Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Leaving Rome, make your way to Sorrento, the perfect gateway to the enchanting Amalfi Coast. Perched atop cliffs overlooking the azure sea, Sorrento exudes a laid-back Mediterranean charm .

Stroll along the Corso Italia , the main shopping street, and explore the town’s vibrant Piazza Tasso, where you can sip espresso at the Bar del Carmine and watch the world go by.

The picturesque fishing village of Marina Grande is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Here, you can enjoy delectable fresh catches while admiring the colorful boats bobbing in the harbor .

From Sorrento, you can also embark on a guided boat tour to the captivating island of Capri. Known for its stunning beauty, glamorous lifestyle, and turquoise grottoes, Capri is a dream destination . Visit the Gardens of Augustus for panoramic views of the Faraglioni rock formations and the sparkling sea.

Day 10-11: Amalfi – A Gem on the Amalfi Coast

Hotel Recommendation: Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Arrive in Amalfi, a hidden gem nestled between cliffs and the azure sea. The town’s stunning Cathedral of St. Andrew is a must-visit, with its o rnate architecture and beautiful cloister .

Stroll through the charming historic center and explore the labyrinthine streets lined with boutiques selling local ceramics and handmade souvenirs. Sample a delightful lunch at Ristorante Marina Grande , where fresh seafood dishes are complemented by breathtaking sea views .

A short walk away lies the picturesque town of Atrani, known for its tranquil atmosphere and quaint alleys . Take a hike along the Valle delle Ferriere for a chance to discover lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and a refreshing natural pool .

Day 12-13: Bari – A Charming Seaside City

Hotel Recommendation: B&B Bari Old Town ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Heading south, you’ll arrive in Bari, a charming city with a rich maritime heritage . The historic old town, known as Bari Vecchia, is a labyrinth of narrow streets and white-washed houses .

Stroll along the Lungomare promenade, where the sea breeze will invigorate your senses. Watch the sunset over the Adriatic Sea and savor the most amazing Gnocchi al Pesto at La Cantina dello Zio .

Bari is famous for its unique pasta shape, orecchiette, and you can’t leave without trying some prepared by a local nonna (grandmother). As you explore the city, you’ll come across lively piazzas, charming churches, and bustling markets , offering a glimpse into authentic Southern Italian life.

Day 14: Vieste – A Coastal Retreat

Hotel Recommendation: Window on the sea ⭐⭐⭐

Leaving Bari behind, head to Vieste, a hidden gem on the Gargano Peninsula . This coastal paradise boasts pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, and turquoise waters, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers .

Start your exploration by visiting Vieste’s iconic Pizzomunno, a stunning limestone monolith that stands majestically on the Spiaggia del Castello beach . Take a boat tour to discover the enchanting sea caves and grottoes that line the coast, such as the Grotta Campana and Grotta dei Pipistrelli .

For panoramic views of the town and the Adriatic Sea, climb up to the Vieste Castle , where you can also learn about the area’s history. Stroll through the historic center with its whitewashed houses, narrow alleys, and charming squares. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some of the region’s fresh seafood at local trattorias.

Gargano National Park , with its lush forests, picturesque lakes, and diverse wildlife, is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Embark on a trek to explore the beauty of this protected area, which is home to ancient beech forests and unique plant species.

As the sun sets over the horizon, the tranquil ambiance of Vieste will leave you with a sense of peace and awe at the beauty of this coastal paradise.

Day 15-16: Venice – The Floating City

Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Antiche Figure ⭐⭐⭐

Your journey takes you to Venice, a city like no other, with its romantic canals and captivating architecture. Explore the maze of alleyways and bridges that make up the historic center and visit St. Mark’s Square , the heart of Venice.

The Venetian Lagoon offers unique experiences, from a gondola ride along the Grand Canal to a visit to the enchanting islands of Murano , known for its glassblowing, and Burano, famous for its colorful houses.

Indulge in a meal at a traditional bacaro, where you can savor cicchetti (small tapas-style dishes) and a glass of Prosecco, a true Venetian tradition. As night falls, the city becomes even more magical, with its historic buildings beautifully illuminated.

Day 17-18: Lake Como – Tranquility Amidst Beauty

Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Bellavista ⭐⭐⭐

From Venice, head to the stunning shores of Lake   Como, a tranquil haven surrounded by mountains. The picturesque villages that dot the lake’s shoreline are postcard-perfect, and exploring them by boat is a must.

Bellagio, often referred to as the “ Pearl of Lake Como ,” is a charming village with colorful buildings and terraced gardens. Varenna, with its narrow streets and charming cafes , is another gem worth exploring.

Hike along the Greenway del Lago di Como for breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. As you traverse this serene pathway, you’ll encounter beautiful villas and gardens that are a testament to the region’s opulent past.

Day 19-20: Milan – Fashion and Culture

Hotel Recommendation: Bulgari Hotel Milano ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Conclude your Italian journey in Milan, a bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends history, fashion, and culture. Visit the iconic Duomo di Milano , one of the largest cathedrals in the world, and explore the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II , an elegant shopping arcade.

Milan is a fashion capital, so take some time to browse the haute couture boutiques and experience the latest trends. Enjoy a delightful meal at one of the city’s chic bistros and savor the flavors of Lombard cuisine.

For art enthusiasts, a visit to Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper at the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie is an absolute must. Marvel at this masterpiece, which continues to captivate visitors with its i ntricate details and emotive portrayal .

As your adventure comes to an end, reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories you’ve made during this epic journey through the best of Italy.

What is the best time to visit Italy?

The best time to visit Italy is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are fewer, allowing you to fully enjoy the country’s top destinations without feeling overwhelmed.

What are the must-visit places in Rome?

Rome is brimming with must-visit places. The Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican City with St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Pantheon are essential landmarks to explore. Don’t forget to make a wish at the Trevi Fountain and enjoy a relaxing stroll through the charming streets of Trastevere.

Which are the best Amalfi Coast towns to visit?

The Amalfi Coast is dotted with picturesque towns that offer stunning views and delightful experiences. Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello are among the most popular ones. Each town has its own unique charm and captivating beauty that will leave you in awe.

What is the best way to explore Venice?

The best way to explore Venice is on foot and by boat. Wander through the narrow alleyways and charming squares, and don’t be afraid to get lost – it’s all part of the adventure. Take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal, and hop on a vaporetto (water bus) to visit the nearby islands.

What are the must-visit attractions in Milan?

Milan is known for its fashion and culture. The must-visit attractions include the Duomo di Milano, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the city’s vibrant dining scene and explore the Navigli district with its charming canals.

A Dream Journey: The Ultimate 2-Week Italy Itinerary

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Tours to Italy

A vacation to Italy guarantees understated gems around every corner, from charming piazzas to hidden gardens. Whether you're into historical architecture and art or walking among rolling hills and vineyards, we've got a trip for you.

Ways to explore Italy

Walking and trekking, food and drink, explore upgraded, rail journeys, multi-activity, popular italy trip searches, amalfi coast tours, walking in italy, cycling in italy, family trips in italy, northern italy tours, southern italy tours, italy food tours, discover our italy tours.

From colorful hilltop houses in Cinque Terre to rolling Tuscan hills scattered with vineyards, Italy is rich in culture and history. And of course it’s famous for its food and drink – there’s no place for diets with stone-baked pizza, fresh pasta and world-class wines on offer.

Whether you’re  walking the Amalfi Coast  or exploring Roman ruins in  Sicily   on our small group tours, our  local tour leader  will show you the best towns and villages of Italy , as well as the hidden gems we have uncovered. Discover unique Trulli houses and medieval towns by bike in Puglia or hike the village trails around Lake Garda - with so much variety in one country, which Italy tour will you choose?

If you're new to Explore, check out our blog answering some of the  most-asked questions  about small group travel. 

Our most popular tours in Italy

Amalfi coast walking - agriturismo.

Classical Sicily

Upgraded - Walking Italy: Rome & Umbria

Highlights of Puglia

A Taste of Tuscany - Hilltop Towns and Vineyards

Cycle Dolomites, Lake Garda and Venice

Family Tuscany Multi-Activity Adventure

Lake Como Walking

Family Sicily Multi-Activity Adventure

Ancient Sicily

Hiking in the Dolomites

Cycle Puglia

Walking in Sardinia

Tuscany Walking and Wine

A Taste of Italy - Walking in Emilia Romagna

A Taste of Italy - Walking in Puglia

Tour du Mont Blanc Trek

Cycling in Italy - Cilento to the Amalfi Coast

Walking In Sicily

A Taste of Sicily - Palermo to Syracusa

Italy tour highlights

We've got a range of small group and self-guided Italy vacations on offer, from  walking the Amalfi coast  to  cycling in the Dolomites ,  family activity vacations in Tuscany  to  tours of the historic sites of Sicily . 

Our tours offer a huge range of experiences across Italy, but some of the highlights include: 

Amalfi Coast

Head to the sun-drenched coast for quintessential Italian landscapes. Popular with hikers, the scenic 'Path of the Gods' trail hugs the picturesque coastline and rewards walkers with breathtaking views out to sea. Our popular small-group  Amalfi Coast walking trip  includes the 'Path of the Gods' as well as a ridge walk with views to Mount Vesuvius and a trip to the island of Capri. If you'd prefer to walk without the group, we offer a  self-guided Amalfi walking tour  -we organize the logistics and provide you with maps for a stress-free vacation.

Another option to explore the area is to  cycle to the Amalfi Coast  from Cilento National Park, stopping along the way to explore ancient ruins and try local food. And for less walking and more time exploring the cultural sites our  Highlights of Naples and the Amalfi Coast  trip includes a guided tour of Pompeii and Herculaneum, a visit to the fascinating cave dwellings of Sassi di Matera and a mouth-watering cheese and wine tasting.

Located in the 'heel' of Italy, Puglia is known for it's whitewashed hill towns and unique trulli houses - dry stone huts with conical roofs. It's also one of the best places to visit for delicious traditional Italian food. No matter whether you choose a  cultural ,  walking  or  cycling  trip in Puglia, food and drink will be a focal point in the itinerary. From pasta-making classes and olive oil tasting to cheese and wine experiences, you're guaranteed not to go hungry!

A Mediterranean island just off the coast of Italy, Sicily is home to captivating Ancient Greek ruins and the mighty Mount Etna, Europe's highest and most active volcano. If you're into history spend a week exploring the historic sites, including the impressive Valley of the Temples, on the popular  Classical Sicily  tour. Or our two-week  Ancient Sicily  trip covers more of the island including the Neapolis Archaeological Zone. 

We also offer an exciting  volcanic hiking trip  with specialist volcanology guide Luca Cosma. You'll hike around the summit crater of Mount Etna and among lava flows and visit the Aeolian Island of Stromboli to see the volcanic activity at night - a sight you'll surely never forget. Or for a self-guided option, check out our  Walk Sicily and the Aeolian Islands  trip. 

Head to central Italy for views of rolling hills packed with vineyards and topped with medieval towns. We offer walking trips in Tuscany where you'll get to hike through this peaceful landscape and enjoy the local wine from the vineyards. 

Or join our  Family Activity Adventure Vacation  to enjoy kayaking, trekking, zip-lining, canyoning and more with your kids. Plus you'll get to walk along the stunning Cinque Terre coast with its scenic hilltop trails and charming seaside towns. 

The Italian Lakes

Discover the scenic Italian Lakes by foot or by bike. We offer small-group trips like our  Lake Como walking trip  and  Cycle Dolomites, Lake Garda and Venice  tour.  

Solo tours in Italy

All of our Italy vacations are suitable for solo travelers. Around half of our customers travel solo so you certainly won't be the only person traveling on your own. Our small-group tours offer great opportunities to meet like-minded travelers and share your experiences. 

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8 Highlights of Italy

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The Ultimate Italian Bucket List | 40+ Incredible Experiences in Italy

Whether it’s for the mouthwatering cuisine, the culture, landscapes, or history, there’s no arguing with the 96 million tourists who visit the country each year. Like them, you’ll find an abundance of things to do in Italy.

Wherever your interests lie, you’ll find plenty of things to add to your Italian bucket list. Naturally, it’s a great destination for short city breaks, with Rome, Venice, and Florence topping the list. However, if you have more time to get outside these major hubs, there are so many outstanding experiences in Italy waiting to be had.

If you’re not sure what to see, Italy is home to no less than 55 world heritage sites, which is more than anywhere else in the world! These range from ancient ruins to natural landscapes and cultural experiences.

Read on to discover over 40 Italy bucket list destinations, to put on your itinerary. You’re not going to be disappointed.

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Essential Things For Your Italian Bucket List – At A Glance

Wondering what to do in Italy, but have no time to read the full article now? no worries. You can download this checklist of places to visit in Italy, it includes everything mentioned in this article for offline viewing.

If you’re just after the low-down of things you must see in Italy, then below is a list of all places included in this article to help you plan your Italian itinerary.

Best Experiences in Italy

• The Canals of Venice, Rialto Bridge & Bridge of Sighs
• Milan From the Historic Duomo
• Pompeii, Herculaneum & Mt Vesuvius
• Da Vinci’s Masterpiece “The Last Supper”
• The Amalfi Coast
• Pisa and Pose With The Leaning Tower
• Colosseum, Underground Arena & Roman Forum
• The Islands of Burano and Murano
• The Uffizi Gallery
• Traditional Italian Food Tour
• Lago Di Garda ( Lake Garda)
• Five Villages of the Cinque Terre
• Stromboli Volcano
• Sicily’s Cathedral of Monreale
• Forte di Fenestrelle
• Royal Residences of the House of Savoy
• Sail Pan Di Zucchero
• Pizza Margherita in Napoli
• Climb Mt. Etna
• Vineyard-Hopping in Tuscany
• Carnival of Venice
• The Palatine Chapel
• Vatican City & The Sistine Chapel
• The Frasassi Caves
• Scaligero Castle (The Sinking Castle)
• The Italian Alps

Drive The Stelvio Pass

• Boating At The Blue Grotto
• Marmore Falls – World’s Tallest Man-Made Waterfall
• Medieval Walls of Lucca
• Labyrinth of Matera’s Historic Sassi

The Greek Temples at Paestum

The cathedral complex of siena.

• Lake Como, Bellagio and Varena
• The Trevi Fountain
• Ponte Vecchio
• The Sunken City of Baia

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40+ Things to Put On Your Italy Bucket List

This article has been written with the help of other travel writers who share with you what they think are the best things to do in Italy. Each of their suggestions features highlights of what to see, as well as useful insider tips for making the best out of your trip. Read on to discover the best things to see in Italy.

Explore The Canals of Venice, Rialto Bridge & Bridge of Sighs

Location: Venice

Highlights: Venice is known for its canals and exploring them is definitely one of the top things to do in Italy. The Canal Grande is the widest and most popular canal in Venice and the busiest waterway in the city.

Next to Piazza San Marco, Rialto Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in town. It spans the full width of the Canal Grande and is one of the oldest bridges in the city, whether you pass under it or walk over it, it’s a must for your Venice bucket list.

Ponte dei Sospiri, or Bridge of Sighs, is another popular landmark for your Venice itinerary . It gets its name from the belief that prisoners would sigh as they crossed the bridge on their way to jail.

Tips for Visiting: The Venice canals are some of the most unique and beautiful in the world. Exploring them on a gondola ride is certainly a bucket list experience for many, but not a cheap one.

Luckily, you can explore the canals by land as well and marvel at them from the many bridges. Arguably, the best way to explore Venice is on foot, so book your Venice accommodation somewhere central. Don’t be afraid to wander into less known and narrower streets, that’s where you’ll usually find the best photo opportunities.

Recommended by Zi from Craving Adventure

Panoramic Views of Milan From the Historic Duomo

Location: Milan

Highlights: Italy has some of the most incredible things to see and do. Some things are worth doing and some are not. There is one of the things in Italy you absolutely will not want to miss, and that is to visit the historic Duomo for the best views over Milan.

There are so many reasons to visit Milan , from its world-famous fashion brands to its tasty traditional dishes. However, its Historic Duomo Cathedral is probably the most iconic and breathtaking landmark in the city.

Here you can climb the stairs of this stunning piece of history and admire the best views over Milan. Not only will you learn so much about the city but be able to take some of the most phenomenal photos!

If you are looking to visit somewhere that you won’t forget in a hurry and you will not be able to find anywhere else in the world, stop by the Duomo.

Tips for Visiting: Even though this is the best panoramic view of Milan, it is first and foremost a religious building. Make sure you have dressed appropriately and do not wear anything revealing. It doesn’t matter if you have paid for your ticket, if you are not dressed conservatively, they will not let you in.

As this is a must-do in Italy, it can get really popular, especially during the summer. It is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance so you can skip the queues.

Recommended by Lowri Thomas from Many Other Roads

Discover the History of Pompeii, Herculaneum & Mt Vesuvius

Location: Southeast of Naples

Highlights: One of the best things about Italy if you’re into ancient monuments, is that the country is filled with them. The ill-fated cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum are two of the most iconic ruin sites.

Mount Vesuvius is one of the most active volcanoes in Italy, and in AD 79, an eruption destroyed a multitude of Roman cities through the eruption of volcanic gasses, stones and burning ashes. The cities were then buried by pumice, and volcanic debris, including people, that have been immortalised.

Visiting the ruins sites is one of the most interesting things to do in Italy. You can wander around the sites and still see mosaics, rooms, artefacts and the people, captured in time, from that fateful day.

Tips for Visiting: If you’re wondering if these are places to visit in Italy in summer, it’s worth knowing that all three sites get busy, in particular Pompeii. It’s worth booking a skip-the-line entry ticket in advance, especially in peak season.

It’s also worth noting that the site is large, and with little shade, so if you visit in the summer take plenty of water, sunglasses and sunscreen.

This is one of the top Italy things to do and see. Ideally, you’d want two days in the area to do all three things justice. You could easily spend a whole day at Pompeii. Then do Herculaneum the following morning and go up Mt Vesuvius that afternoon.

Related Article : Jerash Ruins, Jordan: The ‘Pompeii of the East’ .

Admire Da Vinci’s Masterpiece “The Last Supper”

Highlights: For art lovers, Europe is a wonderful place to be as Europe is filled with world-class art museums and institutions, showcasing classic and contemporary artworks from across the globe.

There’s one widely known artwork that is not on display in an art museum but remained on the wall of Santa Maria Delle Grazie, the original place where it was painted. The Last Supper by Leonardo Da Vinci, which needs no introduction, is an extraordinary art piece created in the late 15th century. The fresco depicts an iconic biblical scene that is considered the best version of its kind.

Da Vinci used unique drawing techniques by painting on the church’s wall after exhaustive research. The composition, content, and details of this fresco have a significant impact on art, history, religious and cultural studies – not to mention it is constantly featured in modern cultures, books, and movies. Going to see it is certainly something for your Milan bucket list.

Tips for Visiting: Visitors can view the artwork with an admission ticket or on a guided tour.

Entries are divided into 15-minute groups and tickets are often sold out because many available slots are booked by tour guides and agencies in advance. Always reserve a ticket online before visiting the church.

Santa Maria Delle Grazie is located in Milan’s city area and it is easy to get there by train. The closest station is Milano Cadorna and it’s only a few minutes walk to the site.  

Recommended by Kenny Chow from Knycx Journeying

Drive The Amalfi Coast

Location: Amalfi coast

Highlights: One of the most amazing things to do in Italy, and shouldn’t miss is driving along the Amalfi Coast. The narrow road, with tight curves bordered by the sea on one side and the mountain on the other, increases the level of adrenaline.

Known for its beautiful little towns that climb the mountain and for its breathtaking views over the sea, the Amalfi coast is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Italy. If you want to spend your holiday here, choose to stay in a hotel with an infinity pool . This way you can fully enjoy the landscape.

Tips for visiting : If you want to try this adventure as part of your road trip itinerary, when you book your car rental, opt for the smallest vehicle possible. This way you will be able to explore the little streets in the towns, and not just the main road.

That said, one of the most important attractions will be the main road. Located a few metres above the sea, it is exciting to see the water below you, and the mountain next to you as you navigate the bends in the road.

In Positano for example, there are some places where you should be careful because oncoming traffic, such as buses, pass just a few centimetres next to you. Also, the buildings are very close to the road so it’s easy to scratch your car if you don’t pay attention.

This is not a road for speeders, it is a road for those who want to enjoy the beauty of this coast and soaking up the atmosphere is one of the best things to do. In Italian driving, road users can often feel aggressive compared to other places in Europe, however, here is not the place for it, so take a more relaxed approach as you take it all in.

Recommended by Corina from Another Milestone

Related Article:  Roadtripping Along The Amalfi Coast

Explore Pisa and Pose With The Leaning Tower

Location: Pisa

Highlights: Everyone knows Pisa, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa, which is considered to be one of the most popular landmarks in Italy! Of course, a visit to this attraction is one of the best things to do in Pisa and a must on any Italy trip.

Its leaning already occurred during its construction between 1173 to 1372. The tower even had to be closed and restored from 1990-2001 for safety reasons. People are still amazed by the leaning tower, and those after some light entertainment in Italy can have fun watching people taking the popular photo supporting the tower in imaginative ways.

Not only is the Leaning Tower beautiful, but the old town of Pisa is also a real highlight that should not be missed. Walk through the romantic alleys, try one of the fabulous restaurants and soak up the atmosphere far away from the touristic hustle and bustle.

Piazza dei Cavalieri is especially beautiful, one of the most charming squares in the historic centre of Pisa.

Tips for Visiting: It is best to visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa first thing in the morning, then you can take the best pictures and later you will have enough time to explore the old town. The tower is located in Piazza dei Miracoli, the so-called Square of Miracles, which you can visit for free!

If you want to visit other sights like the Duomo, the Baptistery, and the Cemetery or if you want to climb the Tower you have to pay an entrance fee. You can save money and time by booking tickets in advance!

If you still have time left, then you should check out the beautiful beaches of Pisa, especially the beautiful beach at Marina di Pisa! This one is only 10 kilometres away. Perfect if you want to combine sightseeing with swimming in the sea.

Recommended by Martina from Places of Juma

The Iconic Colosseum, Underground Arena & Roman Forum

Location: Rome

Highlights: If you quiz anyone about things to do with Italy, you can guarantee they’ll mention the Romans and the Colosseum.  Needless to say that visiting the Colosseum is an essential part of any first-timer’s Rome itinerary . But there’s more to the most popular ancient amphitheatre in the world than just what you can see from the outside or from simply stepping inside its century-old walls.

The Colosseum is also home to a vast network of tunnels in its underground area that you can now explore on a guided tour. Walking around this underground labyrinth under the arena stage is the best way to learn the history of those dark corridors. You will be amazed by the ancient elevators used to facilitate the performances held in the arena and the gruesome stories of the performances themselves.

Tips for Visiting: Until recently, the underground area of the Colosseum was inaccessible to the public. Therefore, even if you have visited the Colosseum in the past, it’s worth visiting again for a tour of its underground area and the Arena.

Bear in mind that you can only visit the underground area on a guided tour with a special ticket that grants you access to all parts of the Colosseum, and other worthy places for your Rome bucket list, including the underground area and the Arena, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

This special ticket is called Full Experience Arena & Underground. It’s recommended to book your tickets in advance to make sure they’re available on the day of your visit.   

Recommended by Katerina & Maria from It’s All Trip To Me

Visit the Islands of Burano and Murano

Highlights: Venice is an incredible city to begin with, but visiting the floating city without taking a day trip to its other islands of Burano and Murano would be a waste! They are a short boat ride away from the main island of Venice and you can spend an entire day exploring these magical places.

Burano is known for being the most colourful place in Italy , with its rainbow-coloured houses that line the canals. This is one of the must-see things in Italy, as each house is painted a bright and beautiful colour which make the prettiest photo backdrop. The island is also known for the delicate handmade lace the locals produce, and the delicious fried seafood.  

The neighbouring island of Murano is special for its glass production, which has become famous across the world. The locals who work at the glass factories produce intricate glass products from ornaments and glasses to huge chandeliers. Visit the island to watch the glassblowing and ship some back to use in your home!

Tips for Visiting: Visiting the islands should be an all-day adventure from the main island of Venice. You can either visit by taking the Vaporetto, the local water bus, or by booking a group tour.

The tour will be much simpler, easier and faster, but will mean you have less time on the islands and less flexibility in planning your day. The Vaporetto can be a little confusing to use, but once you get there, you can control how long you stay on each island.

It costs just a few Euros to take the tour of the glass factory on Murano, which is well worth it. And on Burano, wear white so you pop in all the photos with the bright backdrop!

Recommended by Tori Mitchell from Tori Pines Travels

Admire The Grandmasters At The Uffizi Gallery

Location: Florence

Highlights: If you’re planning your trip, and wondering what to see in Italy, I highly recommend the world-renowned galleries. A visit to Florence is incomplete without the world-famous Uffizi Gallery. This museum houses some of the most important artworks of the Medieval and Renaissance period.

Florence was known as the city of bright minds and for its progress of virtues during the height of the Renaissance. Some of the most well-known artists were from Florence, including Leonardo da Vinci and Botticelli. Sculptures and fine art paintings of these grandmasters as well as other renowned Italian painters, such as Raphael, can be admired in the Uffizi Gallery.

The Birth of Venus by Botticelli is a must-see in the Uffizi gallery and art aficionados come from far to see this breathtakingly beautiful painting. Other noteworthy art pieces include the ‘Coronation of the Virgin’ by Fra Angelico and ‘Adoration of the Magi’ by Leonardo da Vinci.

Tips for Visiting: Every guide to Florence will rate the Uffizzi Gallery as one of the must-see attractions in the city . The Uffizi Gallery is located in the old town adjacent to the Piazza della Signoria. The entry point is a narrow courtyard with a view of the river Arno. It’s near the Ponte Vecchio bridge and the Pallazzo Vecchio palace in the historical centre.

The best way to get around is by walking. It’s advised to book a museum visiting slot in advance because this museum is one of the most visited in the world. The opening hours are from 8:15 to 6:30 and the gallery is closed on Mondays.

Recommended by Paul D’Souza from Paulmarina

Go on a Traditional Italian Food Tour

Location: Emilia Romagna (Bologna/Modena)

Highlights: It’s no secret that Italy produces some of the best food in the world, and experiencing it fully needs to be on your Italy must-do list.

The region of Emilia Romagna is known for producing some of Italy’s most iconic foods. Three of the area’s most famous foods in particular — Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, prosciutto ham, and balsamic vinegar — are the stars of one of Italy’s most popular food tours .

You’ll visit a local Parmigiano cheese factory to learn about the full process of how they make the King of Cheese, see the process in action, and taste the end result. 

Next, the tour includes a visit to a family-owned acetaia where they make traditional balsamico di Modena which is aged for up to 25 years. You’ll sample different stages of the ageing process and see why this is such an amazing food. Finally, you’ll see the production of Italy’s famous prosciutto hams, arguably one of Italy’s most famous exported products.

Tips for Visiting: Several tour operators can take you on this unique tour but the Italian Days Food Experience includes an immersive and fun lunch feast where you’ll get to try all three of these foods and how they’re incorporated into their most unique dishes.

From prosciutto appetisers to a drizzle of aged balsamic on vanilla gelato, you certainly won’t be hungry, and you’ll leave with a keener palate and greater appreciation for the region’s cuisine.

If ever there was a must-do food tour, it’s this one! This is also a great region of the country to take an Italian cooking class.

Recommended by Lori from Italy Foodies

Relax at Lago Di Garda ( Lake Garda)

Location: Near Verona

Highlights: One of the top destinations Italy offers is Lake Garda . It’s the perfect getaway to the picturesque atmosphere just outside Verona and the largest lake in Italy embracing the Alpine mountains. The lake is abundant with castles and Scaglieri Castle in Sirmione is the most popular one. Garda town itself scatters the stunning views of the lake.

It stretches across three Italian regions- Lombardia, Trentino Alto Adige and Veneto, and covers various landscapes.

A popular destination here is Gardaland, which is an amusement park near Peschiera del Garda. Several adventure parks make up Gardaland, these include Caneva World which focuses on movie entertainment while Parco Natura Viva absorbs the African wildlife.

If you’re interested in history, then head to Desenzano on the western shore which holds the impressive Roman mosaics.

Tips for Visiting: The best way to reach Lake Garda is to take a train to Peschiera del Garda or Desenzano from Verona. From Peschiera, you can take the bus to pretty towns around the lake. Ferry service is available but takes a lot of time to get between places.

For the best views, climb the 2218m up Monte Baldo from the pretty towns of Malcesine (which also has its own castle). At the top, you’ll have stunning views. If you don’t want to walk, then taking a cable car is another option.

Recommended by Gabi from Under Flowery Sky

Visit the Five Villages of the Cinque Terre

Location: Cinque Terre National Park

Highlights: The historic villages of the Cinque Terre are famous for being some of the most picturesque in Italy. Perched on the cliffs in the Cinque Terre National Park , with colourful buildings leading down to the blue waters of the Italian Riviera, visiting these towns is easily a highlight of travelling to Italy.

While all the towns are incredibly pretty, Manorola is the subject of many paintings and Vernazza is renowned as one of the loveliest villages in the country. 

The five towns are connected by a walking trail and it’s possible to walk between them all in one day which should be one of your must-dos in Italy. If you want to spend more time in the villages themselves, opt for the train instead.

Tips for Visiting: Aim to go in June or September when the weather is warm but the villages aren’t quite as busy. Manorola and Vernazza are particularly lovely and popular with visitors, so try and visit these earlier or later in the day.

Be sure to check that the trails you want to hike are open before you go – rain can affect the pathways. For the best views of the towns, opt for one of the longer hikes in the Cinque Terre National Park – the alternative route that goes between Manarola and Corniglia via the tiny settlement of Volastra is particularly beautiful.

Recommended by Roxanne from Far Away Worlds

Visit (or Climb) Stromboli Volcano

Location: Tyrrhenian Sea

Highlights: If you’re looking for something to tick off your bucket list, Italy has numerous natural landmarks. Forget the tourist traps of Vesuvius and Etna and instead discover one of the world’s most active volcanoes (it erupts every 20 minutes or so).

This truly is one of the most amazing things to see in Italy. Stromboli is located on a small island (well, it IS the island) off the north coast of Sicily close to the Aeolian Islands.

One of the most incredible things about Stromboli is that the island has a permanent residence of around 400 people living in the shadow of the volcano with daily eruptions.

There are a couple of small villages with shops, restaurants, and hotels and it’s quite easy to arrange a trip to Stromboli. The volcanic beach is perfect for swimming in exceptionally warm waters, though it is quite rocky so you’ll need flip-flops or beach shoes.

It takes around 2 hours to reach Stromboli from the Sicilian town of Milazzo and daily ferries make the crossing. There are also ferries from Naples on the mainland with a journey time of around 5 hours.

Tips for Visiting: There are two ways you can reach Stromboli; either by taking a tour or catching a ferry from Sicily or mainland Italy. The tours usually include a trip to the Aeolian Islands and moor off Stromboli at night so you can see the eruptions and lava flow.  

Recommended by Steve Rohan from The Trip Goes On

Related Article:  The Ultimate Guide To Adventure Destinations In Europe

Admire the Norman Architecture of Sicily’s Cathedral of Monreale

Location : Monreale, Sicily

Highlights: Monreale is a small town just 7 kilometres away from the centre of Palermo, Sicily . The town is nestled up on the top of a hill, and it’s home to one of the greatest existing examples of Norman architecture in Italy. The building of Monreale Cathedral began in 1174 by William II of Sicily.

The cathedral is one of the most beautiful things to see in West Sicily . The inside is covered in beautiful, detailed mosaics that are rare to see. The mosaics are made of glass tesserae, and were created in the Byzantine style between the late 12th and the mid-13th centuries by local Sicilian and Venetian masters. The cathedral is a must-see Italy landmark.

After admiring the craftsmanship of the Monreale Cathedral, you can go for a wander around the town. There are plenty of cute lunch spots in the town’s main piazza, as well as small shops for gift shopping.

Tips for Visiting: The best way to visit Monreale is by taking the bus from Palermo. You can go by car, but parking is scarce, especially if you go in the summer when the town is busy. Bus number 389 which departs from Piazza Indipendenza will take you to Monreale and back. The trip is about 1 hour each way because of traffic. Once you’re there, it’s just a small fee to enter the cathedral.

Recommended by Erin From Pina Travels

Visit Forte di Fenestrelle

Location: Fenestrelle, Val Chisone, Province Torino

Highlights: One thing on your Italy must-see list should be Forte di Fenestrelle , the biggest alpine fortress in Europe. After the Great Wall of China, it is also the next largest wall structure.

It actually consists of 3 independent fortresses, connected by the largest covered staircase in Europe with 4000 steps. From the lowest part of that huge military complex in the valley bottom to the highest part at 1110m, high above beautiful Val Chisone, you will have to overcome 635 metres of altitude that the structure stretches along, meandering its way up the valley.

The fortress is an absolute masterpiece of military architecture, absolutely impressive to look at and visible from far!

Tips for Visiting: It’s located 74km away from Turin, you will need 1,5hrs from Piedmont’s capitol to reach the free parking area, right next to Fort San Carlo.  Only the courtyard of that main fortress is free to enter.

Like with quite a few Italy tourist activities, if you do not speak Italian, you should opt for the self-guided “Amici-Tour”. It only costs a few Euros. It only allows visiting a small fraction of the Fortress, but you will be able to enter the famous staircase and explore some of the buildings from the main fort.

If you understand Italian, you could join a fantastic guided day tour which visits all areas of that huge complex. The full-day tour “La Passeggiata Reale” is absolutely worth it.  

Check opening times before your visit, as those vary depending on the season and weekdays.

Recommended by Linda Bluemel from Insieme Piemonte

UNESCO Listed Royal Residences of the House of Savoy

Location: Turin (and the entire region of Piedmont)

Highlights: From the Palazzo Reale and Villa della Regina to the Palace of Venaria Reale and the Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi, this group of 10+ landmarks dates back to the 16th-18th centuries.

If you’re a fan of all things Italian, they make a wonderful place for travellers to immerse themselves in northern Italian architecture and get a glimpse into the country’s history.

The beautiful and underrated Turin was the capital city of the Duchy of Savoy, the Kingdom of Sardinia, and the unified Kingdom of Italy, all ruled by the House of Savoy, so visiting the dynasty’s royal residences in the city and around it is a true privilege.

Tips for Visiting: Three Royal Residences are located in the heart of the historic centre of Turin, and two are in other districts. Several of those that are situated outside of the city are easily reachable by public transport, including the Palace of Venaria, Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi, Castle of Moncalieri, and the Castle of Rivoli.

There are a range of ticket prices, depending on the landmark you want to visit, but they are completely free to visit with the money-saving Torino+Piemonte Card. This card also offers free entrance to countless attractions in Turin and Piedmont (and many other discounts).

Recommended by Or from My Path in the World

Take a Boat Tour to the Pan Di Zucchero

Location: Masua, Sardinia

Highlights: The Pan di Zucchero is an iconic white rock stack standing on the Mediterranean Sea off the town of Masua in Sardinia, Italy’s second biggest island after Sicily. And taking a trip out to see it is one of the things you have to do in Italy.

This natural wonder formed by erosion is famous for its unique sugarloaf shape (hence its name), for being the highest rocky outcrop in the Mediterranean Sea, and for offering splendid panoramas.

In fact, the Pan di Zucchero is part of the Iglesiente, the region along the Sardinian eastern part below Alghero, known for its wild coast full of Faraglioni, huge dramatic cliffs, wild beaches and coves.

Tips for visiting : There are several ways to visit the Pan di Zucchero, including by paddle or via Ferrata, but the best is definitely to take a boat tour. Boats leave every day from Masua beach and take you to discover not only the Pan but also Porto Flavia (a mining site inserted in the limestone cliffs facing the Pan), as well as the caves and other hidden gems of the Canal Grande.

These boat tours also include snorkelling time in wonderful caves filled with colourful fish of all kinds, which add wonderment to the experience.

You can book your tickets for this tour either directly on the beach or on the boat tour company’s website. Book in advance online if you plan to do it in the high season (June-September) to not miss your chance to do this adventure.

Recommended by Nesrine Chebbi from Kevmrc Travel

Eating a Pizza Margherita in Napoli

Location: Naples, Italy

Highlights: One of the good things about Italy, is that everywhere you’ll visit in the country, the food is divine! Naples is the home of pizza, and you simply can’t miss trying a famous Neapolitan pizza when you’re in Italy.

As the name suggests, the very best pizzas in Italy are served up in small restaurants in Naples -usually served hot out of the oven with fresh, blistered crust, sweet and tangy tomato sauce, and perfectly melted cheese.

Nowhere in the world makes pizzas quite like the pizzerias of Naples, where they’ve been honing the craft for generations. You’re all but sure to fall in love with Naples after your first bite.

In Naples, locals will typically order one pizza per person. The pizzas are crafted to be easier to digest than their North American equivalents, and they won’t leave you feeling overly full or bloated. Be forewarned that the pizzas come unsliced, so you’ll need a knife and fork to dig in.

Tips for visiting: There are three famous pizza restaurants in Naples, and it’s worth trying each of them if you have time in the city.

Arguably the most famous is Pizzeria Da Michel, the filming location for the famous pizza-eating scene in Eat, Pray, Love. This relatively small restaurant is nearly always bustling, with a small crowd of people waiting outside to get a table. They have a few pizza options, all combinations of crust, sauce, and cheese (except for the marinara, which has no cheese, and therefore vegan).

The other two are Sorbillo and Starita, both of which have large pizza menus with toppings like pesto and burrata, in a more standard restaurant setting.

Recommended by Amber from Amber Everywhere

Hike Mt. Etna in Sicily

Location: Catania,  Sicily

Highlights: Mt. Etna is located in the Catania region in eastern Sicily. It is the tallest volcano in Europe and one of the most active volcanoes in the world . On almost any given day it is visibly active, and small eruptions and the glow can be seen from many nearby villages and cities, including Catania and Taormina.

If you’re looking for unforgettable experiences in Italy, there are many opportunities to explore and experience Mt. Etna. You can go by foot, mountain bike , 4×4 vehicle, or even cable car. Hiking the volcano, in particular, gives you an extraordinary opportunity to explore the dynamic terrain from an up close and personal vantage point.  

If you’re looking for adventure in Italy, you’ll find hiking trails here that allow you to explore the inside of craters like the Silvestri craters, which are conveniently located near parking, lodging, restaurants, and gift shops.

Another highlight is hiking to the Summit Craters at a height of 3340 metres. This hike will generally get you as close as possible to the most active part of the volcano. These trails can feel strikingly close to the dramatic plumes of smoke billowing out of Mt. Etna. The landscape feels like another planet.

For those looking for quirky and cool things to do in Italy, you’ll also find trails that ascend and descend into newer nearby craters. Some of these craters contain heat vents where you can put your hand inside and feel the heat and steam from the underlying volcanic activity. These hikes also feature a fascinating collection of rocks in different shades of black, red, brown, yellow, and grey.

Tips for Visiting: It should be noted that conditions at Mt. Etna are constantly changing, not only daily but even on an hourly and minute-by-minute basis. Some hiking trails may be inaccessible based on those conditions. Please check daily conditions before you head out for your hike.

Also, hiking near the summit should only be done with a professional guide. These tours may include sunset hikes, as well as hikes that also include trips to nearby caves and other activities.

Like with many Italy outdoor activities at altitude, when hiking Mt. Etna, you should dress in layers, as the summit is often much cooler and windier than lower elevations.

Finally, make sure to always follow posted signs and not go into areas that are marked as unsafe. If you’re an enthusiast for landscapes, nature and adventure, this is one of the best activities to do in Italy.

Recommended by Merry Allison  from Virginia Vacation Guide

Related Article:  How To Hike and Cycle Around Mt Etna

Vineyard-Hopping & Staying at a Wine Hotel in Tuscany

Location: Tuscany

Highlights: Sampling fabulous, full-bodied, and fragrant wines is an absolute must-do when you’re in Italy. Fortunately, Tuscany is renowned as one of the best wine regions not just in Italy, but around the world.

Located in Central Italy, Tuscany is home to several charming storybook towns with strong wine culture, from Montepulciano to Montalcino, to Radda in Chianti. One of the quintessential Italy activities and the best ways to experience this magical region is through your palette on a vineyard-hopping excursion!

In addition to sampling some of Tuscany’s best bottles, you’ll also enjoy the bonus of uncovering some of Italy’s most spectacular scenery.

Tips for Visiting: Start your tasty adventures in magnificent Montepulciano, one of the top places to enjoy some of the best Italian wine. Located in Southern Tuscany, this Medieval hilltop town is best known for the variety that shares its name – the Nobile di Montepulciano.

This medium-bodied red offers a deliciously fruity experience with aromas of cherry, strawberry, and plum. Avignonesi, Poliziano, and Tenuta Valdipiatta are some of the top wineries featuring sprawling vineyards.

Plus, to make your Tuscan wine-sampling adventures even more fabulous, you’ll have to book a stay at one of the incredible wine hotels in Tuscany . Each of these properties puts wine tasting at the forefront – and some are even home to their very own vineyards!

For the best possible experience in Tuscany, be sure to rent a car so that you can easily navigate between the region’s top wine towns. It’s also advisable to book wine tastings in advance to ensure availability.

Recommended by Elena from The Carry-On Chronicles

Experience the Magical Carnival of Venice

Location: Venice, Italy

Highlights: Skip the heat and intense crowds of the summer months and visit Venice in February. One of the things you must do in Italy at this time is the annual Carnival festival. During this time, you’ll see people in elaborate masks walking around the city, many in full Renaissance-style costumes.

Be sure to stop in one of the many small shops throughout the city and pick up a Venetian mask of your own! On the first Sunday of Carnival, watch Il Volo dell’Angelo (The Flight of the Angel), where a costumed acrobat leaps from the top of the San Marco Bell Tower to the middle of Piazza San Marco. You’ll likely see many live musicians and outdoor performances in Piazza San Marco and other parts of Venice as well.

If you’ve ever asked yourself what are fun things to do in Italy? Then one of the must-do activities during Carnival is to attend a masquerade ball. You’ll feel like you’re on the set of Phantom of the Opera as you dine and dance among hundreds of other people in lavish costumes.

Tips for Visiting: Though Venice is not as crowded in February as in the warmer months, Carnival is still a world-famous festival. It’s recommended to book your hotel sooner rather than later as rooms can quickly fill up. If you plan to attend a masquerade ball, you will want to reserve that ahead of time as well.

One of the great things about Venice is you can keep the cost down by simply wandering the streets and taking in the stunning scenery, which becomes even more lovely and mysterious during Carnival. There is no shortage of things to see just by walking around.

The best way to get to Venice is by train. The Venice Mestra train station is on the mainland right before the Ponta della Libertá railway bridge, and the Santa Lucia station is on Venice itself. It’s most convenient to get off at Santa Lucia.

Recommended by Amanda from My Vintage Map

Visit The UNESCO Listed Palatine Chapel

Location: Palermo, Sicily

Highlights: The exquisite Palatine Chapel is one of the main places to visit in Palermo . Located at the entrance of the Centro Storico (or Old Town) of Palermo and within walking distance of the Palermo Cathedral.

The chapel dates back to the 12th century when Palermo was reigned over by various rulers including Byzantine, Norman and Fatimid. All of which are reflected in the architecture of the chapel.

If you’re looking for things to put on your bucket list for Italy, the Palatine Chapel is worthy of a place. Gazing upon the opulent chapel, it might be hard to imagine that this masterpiece was in fact originally intended for the private use of King Roger II.

The beautiful golden mosaics that cover the entirety of the ceiling depict a host of biblical scenes in exquisite detail. These mosaic scenes can also be found in the nearby cathedrals of Monreale and Cefalu, all of which are also UNESCO-classified.

Tips for Visiting: The Palatine Chapel is located in the Norman Palace, which is the current day seat of the Sicilian Government. Tickets can be bought opposite the entrance from a small ticket booth. Your entrance ticket is valid for both the Palatine Chapel and the Norman Palace.

Visits run from Monday to Saturday from 8.15 am to 5.40 pm, with the last tickets being sold at 5 pm and on Sunday from 8.15 am to 1.00 pm. On Sunday a mass is held between 09.45 am and 11.15 am inside the chapel and therefore there are no visits allowed.

Recommended by Caroline Muller from Veggie Wayfarer

Let Your Jaw Drop in Vatican City & The Sistine Chapel

Location : Rome

Highlights: A day spent wandering the museums, chapels, basilicas, squares, and gardens of Vatican City will have you dreaming of gold for months! To call it a luxe experience is such an understatement! 

The spoils of Empires, crusades, taxes, and of course, parishioner donations, have ended up here with room after room of many of the world’s greatest paintings, sculptures, and countless examples of the world’s best craftsmanship.

It’s impossible to rank the order of the ‘wow’ factor. Standing in St. Peter’s Square is something on many people’s Italy travel bucket list, and you can stand beside the place where the Pope gives his speeches and see for yourself the glorious circular colonnades and sculptures of saints that peer down from them.

St. Peter’s Basilica is simply awe-inspiring – its size, wealth, aesthetic proportions, and gold and marble are just unforgettable. Michelangelo’s La Pietà and his cupola are just two of the highlights.

But as wonderful as these two sites are, there are still the Vatican Museums to explore with 54 galleries and more than 70,000 works of art! The Gallery of Maps and the Raffaello Rooms are among the highlights, leading inexorably to the tiny but completely perfect Sistine Chapel. Here you can sit on the benches and stare up at the frescoed ceiling painted by artists such as Botticelli and Michelangelo. And here, in the last part of the Vatican Museum, you can look up at Michelangelo’s fresco, The Creation of Adam.

Tips for Visiting: Book online well in advance, book a skip-the-line ticket and wear modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders. A guided tour is a good option to cut down on the queueing and the difficulty of booking tickets.

The Vatican is open from Monday to Saturday between 9 am and 6 pm, although the ticket office closes at 4 pm. It is closed on Sundays, apart from the last Sunday of each month, when it’s open between 9 am and 2 pm.

Recommended by Monique at Trip Anthropologist

Spelunking in the Frasassi Caves

Location: Genga, Ancona Italy   

Highlights: Did you ever imagine you could add spelunking to your Italy bucket list?  If you find yourself on Italy’s east coast, you’ll definitely want to cross this one off your Italy to-do list.

Tucked deep inside the region’s mountains, Frasassi Caves was first discovered in 1971 and is now one of the largest known cave systems in Europe.  

Spend one hour and 15 minutes feeling the brisk cave air, twirling past crystal lakes, and losing yourself in mesmerising caverns.  Surrounded by dazzling crystal walls and hearing the slow water drip, it’s as if Frasassi Caves transfer you into another world! 

Tips for Visiting:   The easiest ways to get here are by car along highway A14, or by taking the train via Railway Ancona to S.Vittore Terme Station.  Arrive at the ticket office 30 minutes before your entrance time.

Tickets can be purchased online or on arrival at the ticket office.  You can choose to walk just under one mile from the ticket office to the cave entrance or ride the shuttle.  

The caves are chilly at a constant 13°C / 57°F all year-round.  Wearing a sweater, long pants, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.  

The caves are open year-round.  Closing dates are December 4th, 30th, and January 10th-30th. Spelunking the Frasassi Caves is not recommended for visitors with heart conditions. Wheelchair access is in place through the first room of the caves only.  

Recommended by Alyssa from An Apple A Plane

Visit Scaligero Castle (The Sinking Castle) in Sirmione

Location: Sirmione, Lake Garda

Highlights: Scaligero Castle, also known as the “Sinking Castle” because of its dock. It’s a beautiful Medieval fortress guarding the entrance to Sirmione’s old town. It was built in the 13th century, and it is one of the best-preserved castles in the entire country, and certainly, one of the must-do things in Italy.

As one of the top things to see in Sirmione , Scaligero is very popular with tourists for its beautiful views of both Lake Garda and the town. You can also take a boat trip around the peninsula to see the castle from the water.

Tips for Visiting: The opening and closing times for Scaligero castle vary depending on the season. In summer (April – September), the castle is open from 8.30 am to 7.30 pm (the last entrance is at 6.45 pm), Tuesday to Saturday, and from 9.15 am to 5.45 pm (the last entrance is at 5 pm) Sunday and during the holidays.

During the winter season (October – March) Scaligero is open Tuesday to Saturday (plus holidays) from 8.30 am to 7.30 pm (the last entrance is at 6.45 pm), while on Sundays you can visit it until 1.30 pm (the last entrance is at 12.45 am).

Try to go either close to the opening or closing time, as this way you’ll be able to avoid any crowds or potential waiting queues at the ticket booth.

Recommended by Andreea from Andoreia

Adventure In The Italian Alps

Location: North Italy

Highlights: If you’re searching for adventurous things to do in Italy, the Italian Alps are where you need to be. One of the top things to do in Italy during winter is head here for snow sports.

The Italian Alps are a popular ski sports destination that pulls thousands of visitors each year. One of the best areas to enjoy skiing is Sauze D’oulx. As part of the Via Lattea (Milky Way) ski area, there is more than 400km of skiing slopes to enjoy. From Sauze D’oulx you can visit the area Sestiere from where you can pass over the mountain tops into France.

Furthermore, both areas are great to visit in summer for hiking, mountain biking, river rafting, kayaking, horse riding, and much more. Visit the small art towns of Avigliana, Susa, and Pinerolo. In addition, it’s possible to visit ancient landmarks like Sacra Di San Michele, Exiles, and Fenestrelle.  

Another option is to explore the Aosta Valley which is a great travel destination both summer and winter. It is known as the smallest region in Italy offering the highest peaks of the Alps. If you’re looking for things to do in northern Italy, here you have endless activities to keep you entertained. Skiing is a given but in summer you also have the option of visiting ancient castles, hiking, trekking, river rafting, kayaking, and much more.

Visit the charming town of Champoluc and stay at a mountain refuge like Baita Belvedere. From there you can take many scenic trails as well as visit the highest thermal pool in Europe. Finally, this refugee is also famous for its kitchen and the whole valley is a foodie hotspot famous for its very own Fontina cheese, cold cuts, and wine from the region.

Tips for visiting: Prices around the Alps in Italy go up in the high season which is also the time for skiing. Know that the popular and best areas get extremely busy and it’s necessary to book ahead.

In summer the Alps have sunny and mild weather but it does get cold with the altitude. Since the weather can be shifty it’s a good idea to bring clothes for all types of weather.

While it is possible to catch many buses around the area, public transportation is inconsistent and limited to certain locations. The best option is to travel by car. Note that in winter snow chains are necessary.

Recommended by Josephine from Josephine Remo

Read Next: Important Things To Pack For Hiking

Location: Italian Alps (the mountain pass in the Dolomites in Northern Italy, near the border with Switzerland)

Highlights: This famous mountain pass, Passo dello Stelvio, has numerous hairpin bends and a view to die for. The pass is one of the highest paved ones in Italy at 2758 metres in height.

If you’re looking for cool things in Italy, this road features a multitude of hairpin bends and is a thrill to drive, either by car, motorbike or bicycle. It has breathtaking views from and on top of the pass. There are 75 hairpin bends, making it a challenge to drive. It has been part of the Giro d’Italia countless times.

The pass is situated in the Stelvio National Park, with wildlife and numerous hiking trails nearby. There are several hotels and restaurants on the Stelvio pass.

Tips for Visiting: The pass isn’t a toll road, and is free to enter and drive on. It isn’t kept snow free anymore, this was done before 2019. Since 2019 the road will be closed from the end of October to the beginning of May.

The Stelvio pass is perfect to include in a Trieste and Dolomites road trip . The Stelvio pass starts in Prato Allo Stelvio on the East side and ends in Bormio on the Western side. It can also be driven vice versa. The Stelvio pass can also be driven till halfway, the Umbrail pass starts halfway, this is the highest drivable pass in Switzerland.

Recommended by Cosette from Kars Travels

Take A Boat To The Blue Grotto

Location: Capri

Highlights: There are many indulgent things to do in Capri , Italy and no shortage of bucket list adventures. One of the best ways to see Capri is by boat, and the most famous attraction on the island is undoubtedly the Blue Grotto, la Grotta Azzura.

You can only visit the grotto with a ticket and a licensed guide, and at times there’s a long wait to get inside (depending on the time of year you visit). But the view inside is one of the most magnificent photo ops of a trip to Capri.

You’ll duck down low in a row boat to avoid bumping your head. Once inside, the view of the glowing water beneath your boat is simply enchanting. This is one of the most beautiful activities Italy has to offer.

Tips for Visiting: There’s more than one grotto to explore in Capri, and most tourists don’t know of two lesser-known grottoes — the Green Grotto and the White Grotto — where you can snorkel and splunk the nearby caves when the seas are calm.

Look for a guide that can take you to all three grottoes on a boat tour. If you want to spend the afternoon on the water and swim, it’s even worth the splurge on a longer tour.

Recommended by Lori from Travelin Mad

Related Article:  Love azure seas? You’ll adore the West Coast of Sicily, Italy

Experience Marmore Falls – World’s Tallest Man-Made Waterfall

Location: Marmore

Highlights: If you’re looking for unique things to do in Italy, one of the places you must see is Marmore Falls . It’s a historical waterfall that was created by the Romans around 271 BC to divert the Velino River away from a nearby city.

To this day, the beautiful waterfall is still the World’s tallest man-made waterfall with its 165-metre height. Marmore Falls has 3 tiers that can be seen from several viewpoints within the park – all of the views are different and offer unique sights of the waterfall.

Apart from its historical value and its beauty, Marmore Waterfall also helps create energy through the nearby hydroelectric power plant, which is pretty incredible in itself.

Tips for Visiting: Marmore Falls is pretty unique because it works on a schedule. Water is released twice a day and you will see a very powerful flow in the waterfall that creates energy for the nearby plant. The rest of the day, the waterfall flow is weak. So make sure to visit during the water release times for the best possible experience and bring a raincoat!

You can easily reach Marmore Town and the waterfall from Terni with a direct train. Just make sure to look up the opening hours and water release before your visit. There is an entrance fee to the waterfall and park.

Recommended by Cecile from Worldwide Walkers

Walk the Medieval Walls of Lucca

Location: Lucca

Highlights: The Tuscan city of Lucca is built like a fortress, surrounded by walls meant to protect it in Medieval times. Today, the walls, or Mura di Lucca, are hailed as one of the city’s top attractions, and walking the 4km path on top of them is a must-do Italy landmark.

From atop the Mura di Lucca, you can spot many of the most famous and historical structures of the old town. Some you’ll see close up like the stunning Cathedral San Martino. And some like the Torre Guinigi, aka the Tree Tower, make the city look magical from above.

You’ll pass the botanical gardens, the Palazzo Pfanner, museums, statues, and much more. And if you turn around and look away from the city centre, you’ll have a 180-degree mountain view.

Tips for Visiting: Walking the walls of Lucca is a great way to start your visit. You’ll be able to get a feel for where things are, and which sights may warrant taking a closer look.

There is no fee, so you can take this glorious promenade as many times as you’d like. And you can walk a bit, go have lunch at one of the amazing Lucca restaurants , and then come back and walk it off.

Seven gates or entrances allow cars to pass through the walls. At these gates lie the access to the top. So no matter where you stay, a gate will be close by.

The wide tree-lined path itself is quite beautiful, and you’ll find many locals riding bikes, running, and strolling babies.

Recommended by Denise of Chef Denise

Related Article:  Can’t resist a Medieval City? Then visit Erice near Trapani, Italy

Explore the Labyrinth of Matera’s Historic Sassi

Location:  Matera

Highlights: Matera is an ancient city located in southern Italy. It is a UNESCO world heritage site with a fascinating history dating as far back as the palaeolithic era. Although it is quickly becoming a tourist destination, Matera was once known as the “shame of Italy”.

For thousands of years, the inhabitants of this community lived without electricity, running water, or proper sewage systems. People lived side by side with livestock inside their homes and in the narrow passageways. Disease and poverty were rampant within the community. Eventually, the residents were forced to evacuate, leaving Matera abandoned for several years.

In the 1980s a group of investors moved in and transformed the network of cave dwellings, or the Sassi, into luxury hotels and boutique restaurants. Although modern amenities have been added, the history and culture of the region has been perfectly preserved.

There is nothing quite like it anywhere else in Italy. Matera has served as a filming location for period films including the Passion of the Christ and Ben Hur.  One of the most fun activities in Italy is to explore the Labyrinth of ancient streets.

Tips for Visiting: Matera is located in southern Italy, approximately 1 hour from the eastern coast and the Adriatic Sea. Although there are no roads and thus no vehicles permitted within the Sassi, there are several parking areas located just on the perimeter of the village. Those planning to spend the night inside the Sassi, should pack lightly and be prepared to walk as there are many stone stairs involved.

The best way to experience Matera is to get lost in the maze of stairs and corridors. One path may lead to a dead end, while another may lead to an incredible overlook of the Sassi or an ancient church carved into stone. While in Matera, it is also recommended to visit Alberobello , a neighbouring community known for its fairy-tale-like Trulli dwellings.

Recommended by Cecilia from Lovicarious

Location: Province of Salerno,  Campania

Highlights: If you’re interested in historical things to see, Italy has them in abundance. The Greek Temples at Paestum are probably one of the most significant monuments to visit in Italy.

This World UNESCO Heritage Site is impressive and not as often visited because of its remote location but definitely worth the effort. The ancient city has three large temples that are well preserved along with other ruins around the city perimeter that make Paestum a half-day or whole-day trip.

Outside of the main historic temples, you can find a variety of smaller tombs, the main thoroughfare that leads to the temples from the main gate, a sunken circular Ekklesiasterion dated around 480 BC and a fantastic museum that houses the main artefacts, murals and other collections that were found around the site.

The museum brings the UNESCO site to life with all of the found art, artefacts and collections of Paestum and gives an impression of daily life, art, food, lifestyle, traditions and day-to-day living in the area.

You’ll love exploring this historic site and better yet, know that this UNESCO site is not as well visited as many other ruins from around Italy.

Tips for Visiting: Getting here is easiest done by car, however, you can also use public transport. It’s located about an hour and a half train ride from Naples, the train ride is fairly quick and access to the city entrance is just a short walk from the main station close to the UNESCO site.

There is very little shade at the ruins, so if you’re visiting during the peak of summer take sunglasses and sunscreen. Also, some of the terrain is uneven, so wear sturdy shoes.

Recommended by Noel Morata from Travel Photo Discovery

Location: Siena

Highlights: While Siena, in the heart of Tuscany, may be best known for the famous Palio horse race that takes place twice a year in Central Square, you’ll also find that it makes a great day trip from Florence to visit the stunning Duomo built of white stone and rose marble.

One of the top things to see in Italy is the Cathedral Complex at Siena. One of the best ways to tour the Duomo and the entire Complex is with the Opa Si Pass which gives you access to all areas.

Discover the Cathedral which features treasures from Bernini, Donatello, and Michelangelo and then visit the Piccolomini Library. Other interesting places here are the Baptistry of San Giovanni, the Crypt, and Museo dell’Opera. Then wander through the Santa Maria della Scala Hospital and Museum.

If you’re feeling energetic, then climb the circular steps to the Panoramic Terrace of the Duomo Nuovo. This unfinished facade of the Duomo offers 360° of breathtaking views of Siena.

Tips for Visiting: Siena makes a perfect day trip from Florence. Whether travelling by car or bus (train is not available), it takes about 75 minutes. If you are arriving by car, note that Siena is a limited-traffic area. Several parking lots are available outside of the historical city centre.

The Opa Si Pass, which is valid for three days, allows you to immerse yourself in the history of Siena, view significant masterpieces, and take a step back into Medieval times.

From April to October, the complex is open from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm, with reduced hours of 10:30 am to 5:30 pm between November and March.

Recommended by Jolayne from Simply Jolayne

Visit Lake Como, Bellagio and Varena

Location: Lake Como, Lombardy

Highlights: Lake Como, is an Italy must-see, located in the Lombardy region in the north of Italy, is the third largest lake in the country. It is also one of the most beautiful places in Italy. Be ready to see colourful buildings, famous villas, and impressive mountain views, and enjoy the local cuisine.

Visiting Lake Como is a worthy Italy bucket list destination. You will love discovering unique small towns that overlook the breathtaking lake.

There are many towns surrounding Lake Como, but Bellagio and Varenna are two towns you shouldn’t miss. They have picturesque streets with peek-a-boo views of the lake, alfresco restaurants, and exceptional villas with lush gardens.

Tips for Visiting: It is a very popular destination and can get crowded. This is why visiting Lake Como off-season is the best option. Although the weather may not be as good as it is in the summer months, it’s still pleasant with warm days and cool evenings. The trade-off is that you will enjoy Lake Como with fewer crowds.

You can go on a day trip from Milan to Bellagio and Varenna, and visit their main attractions and sites, but you need to spend more than a day to fully enjoy both places without rushing.

When visiting any of the towns in Lake Como, make sure to wear comfortable shoes. There are many cobblestone streets, and you will need to take many stairs to access viewpoints, restaurants, and attractions.

Recommended by Cristina of My Little World of Travelling

Throw Coins Into the Trevi Fountain

Highlights: Legend says that if you throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain, you’ll one day return to Rome. The 18th Century Baroque fountain is the biggest of its kind in the city and probably one of the most famous fountains in the world. It stands 26.3 metres high (86 ft) and is 49.15 metres wide (161.3 ft)

If you’ve wondered what are some fun things to do in Italy, tossing a coin here is one of them.  Each day, around €3,000 are tossed into the fountain. Over a year, this mounts up to approximately €1,000,000. The money gets donated to charity.

Tips for Visiting: The fountain is one of the best things to see in Rome, and features pretty much on every city walking tour you do. If you want to visit it without the crowds, then get there early in the morning.

If you’re after a quirky way of seeing it, then you can also opt for the underground tour of Trevi to view the area from a different perspective.

Shop for Jewellery on Ponte Vecchio

Highlights: The Medieval Ponte Vecchio translates to ‘Old Bridge’. Its arched structure stretching over the Arno River holds space for various vendors. This was the only bridge in Florence that survived World War 2 and historically was home to butchers and tanners.

Although the bridge has changed little in appearance over the years, today the shops are home to jewellery, fine crafts and art dealers. If you’re looking for fun stuff to do in Italy walking across here, and perusing the works is a must-do.

Tips for Visiting : The bridge is only open to foot traffic now, however, the number of tourists twinned with how narrow the bridge is, and people stopping to browse, means that bottlenecks often happen. If you’re wanting to enjoy it in a calmer atmosphere, go early in the day.

Also, because this is an incredibly busy area, pickpocketing around here is common. Keep your valuables safe and use a money belt .

It’s also worth noting that if you attach anything to the bridge, you risk getting a fine. Over 5000 ‘love locks’ were removed by the local council between 2005-6 because they ruin the aesthetics of the bridge as well as caused damage.

Scuba Diving Italy’s Sunken City of Baia

Location: Gulf of Naples

Highlights: If you’re an avid diver and looking for unusual things to do in Italy, then consider adding the sunken city of Baia to your itinerary. The city of Baia dates back to the Roman Ages when it was a vacation destination for the rich and powerful. It’s built over medicinal hot springs thanks to the natural volcanic vents in the region.

During the 16th century, the land dropped about 6 metres below sea level. This sank about half of the city into a shallow bay.

Today, you can book diving trips and swim amongst the sunken architectural remains which include statues, columns and mosaics. If you’re after fun things in Italy, this needs to be top of your to-do list.

Tips for Visiting: You will want to be confident with your diving here so you can control your buoyancy at the archaeological site. The depths are relatively shallow and range from 4 metres to 12 metres (13 and 42 feet).

The water is at its warmest between July and September, at around 23 degrees (75F), so depending on how easily you feel the cold, you might want to wear a 3-5mm shorty wetsuit.

How Many Are On Your Italian Bucket List?

Wow, if you made it to the end, well done! How’s your ultimate Italy bucket list shaping up? This article showcases the multitude of outstanding attractions and experiences in Italy. These ideas are so diverse, that there really is something for every type of traveller on here.

How many of these things to see in Italy are you going to add to your Italy travel itinerary?

Download the Italy bucket list items checklist and get it sent straight to your inbox.

Looking for More Things To Do In Italy

If you’re planning to visit Italy, take a look at these other useful guides for more inspiration.

• Discover more Italy Travel Guides here
• Find other Travel Bucket List Ideas
• Planning your travel? then check out these travel tips

Save it for later

If you found this Italian bucket list guide useful, or know someone who would, then share or pin it for future reference.

Still wondering what is there to do in Italy or have a question about this article? then head to the Contact page and drop me a message.

Hey, I'm Becki......and I'm a self-confessed travel addict and experience connoisseur!

In other words, I’m a bucket-list traveller, on a mission to experience the best things our fabulous little planet has to offer with the least environmental impact.

When I'm not climbing mountains, scuba diving, spotting wildlife or exploring ruins, you'll probably find me sipping coffee, or with a glass of wine in hand planning my next adventure.

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How Much Does a Trip to Italy Cost? 2024 Budget Worksheet

I have traveled to Italy seven times in recent years and I have also planned about two dozen vacations to Italy for other families. Over the course of years, I have developed a really good sense of the prices of hotel rooms, tours, and transportation in Italy. So when someone asks me how much “does a trip to Italy cost”, I can rattle these numbers off pretty quickly.

Since budgeting is such a HUGE part of planning a trip, I thought I would lay it out for you and break down the average Italy trip budget to make it easy for you to plan — I’ve even included a helpful budget worksheet to get you started. Italy is a popular travel destination and while not as cheap as Ireland or Portugal , it isn’t as expensive as London or Paris . (See this post if you need help creating a family travel budget !)

How Much Does a Trip to Italy Cost?

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. All opinions are my own.

Before we jump into figuring out how much a trip to Italy costs, let’s first dive into a few budgeting and travel tips to keep in mind when planning a trip to Italy:

• Summer is not only the most expensive time to visit, but given recent European heat waves in late June and July, it will be HOT so make sure you are looking at accommodations that offer air conditioning;
• Honeymoon destinations like the Amalfi Coast ( Positano , Capri , Ravello , etc.) or the Cinque Terre are going to be especially busy in the summer and family-friendly accommodations are hard to find;
• If traveling in the high season, plan on booking accommodations at least six months in advance for the best selection;
• Villas/houses in the Tuscan countryside tend to rent for one-week minimum in the summer and rentals go from Saturday to Saturday so you need to plan your itinerary accordingly. You can always stay in hotels or smaller agriturismos that don’t have a minimum night stay requirement, but those will cost a bit more;
• If you want to stay in the Italian countryside on a budget, look for places in Umbria (near smaller cities such as Orvieto or Assisi ), Emilia Romagna (near Bologna , Parma , or Verona ), or Piedmont in the North, instead of Tuscany to get a similar feel at a cheaper price point;
• Main Italian cities like Rome , Florence , Venice , and Milan are more expensive to stay in versus the countryside so consider limiting your time in cities and doing day trips to save money (see my tips for driving in Italy ). Of these, Venice is especially expensive.

Not sure how to plan a trip to Italy? Get a detailed 10-day Italy Itinerary with 40 pages of day-by-day schedules, instructions, and maps.

Italy Budget Assumptions

For this example budget, I have based these expenses on a family of four. This sample family consists of two adults and two children between the ages of 6-11 and lives near a major airport hub in the USA. When planning your own trip budget, make adjustments as needed to suit your specific travel companions and travel style.

I’m going to assume that this family is traveling in the summer months since that is when most families visit Italy. This example family isn’t strictly budget travelers, but they are comfortable with three to four-star accommodations. Of course, traveling in the shoulder season would save money, but most families don’t have the flexibility or the budget for luxury hotels.

I’m also going to base this on a 12-day trip, with four nights in Rome and one week in Tuscany , which is a great first trip to Italy with kids this age. If you plan on visiting Venice, the Amalfi Coast, the Dolomites, Lake Como , or the Cinque Terre, expect to spend even more on accommodations and food.

The budget for a trip to Italy is made up of the following elements:

• Hotel/Accommodations

Transportation

• Souvenirs/Miscellaneous

I’ve seen Italy trip budgets out there that talk about traveling to Italy for $50-75 a day, per person, but I don’t think that is what a typical family vacation is going to look like. For my family, and others that I have worked with, we want our accommodations to be a little bit more comfortable, private, and centrally located. Families don’t always have the option of doing things on a shoestring budget (nor do they want to!).

Plus, the trip is much more enjoyable and memorable if you can splurge on things like a gondola ride or a private, kid-friendly guide that can engage children in sights like the Colosseum or Vatican Museums, vs. just paying for an entrance ticket.

So while this budget may sound a lot higher than others that you will find online, I also think it is much more realistic. Like everything when it comes to family travel, I’ve tried to strike a balance between budget and enjoyment.

Before we get into the details, the bottom line is that a 12 day trip to Italy for a family of four in the summer months will cost about $17,340, or $361 per person, per day.

Airfare to Italy

Airfare in the summer can get pricey with direct flights averaging somewhere around $1700 per person on ITA Airways (the Italian replacement for Alitalia.) If you wait too long to book your airfare, it can easily get up there in price. To find the cheapest airfare, I would recommend purchasing tickets six months before your departure date (Cyber Monday after Thanksgiving is a good time to purchase airfare) and signing up for a service like Going that sends you alerts when destinations you are watching go on sale.

Generally, you will find better deals if you travel in and out to Rome on a round-trip ticket and if you can travel midweek versus the weekend. To save money, consider booking on a budget airline and connecting in Europe as you can usually find those for under $1000.

Of course, what we always try to do is save up our travel points that we earn on our credit card and use those to wipe out the cost of at least one or two of the airfares. If you want to find the best way to accumulate points and miles through credit card spending and sign up bonuses, I’d suggest downloading the  Travel Freely app  to track your credit cards and learn how to earn points.

Total airfare cost: $6,800 ($1700 per person)

Accommodations

Accommodations can be pricey, especially in Rome and other major cities in Italy. Keep in mind that very few hotels can accommodate a family of four in one hotel room. This can often mean you will need two rooms or a pricey suite. I’ve found that it is usually cheaper to get two smaller rooms than to get a large enough suite to accommodate a family.

In Rome, a four-star hotel will run you about $650 per night, per room if you want to stay in the historic city center. If you are traveling in the summer, you will probably also want a Rome hotel with a pool to cool off in the afternoon. Five-star hotels will run over $1500 per night and the super luxe can easily be $2000+ per room.

However, if you want to prioritize budget over luxury, there are economical mid-range hotel options that DON’T require you to stay far from the city center or in a shady part of town. Simple boutique hotels like the family-run Daphne Inn in Rome have a family room that will sleep four for under $400 per night, and it includes breakfast!

Of course, you can also do what we did and go the vrbo apartment rental route. We found a three-bedroom, two-bath apartment with a view of the Colosseum for $150-350 per night.

Find more places to stay in Rome:

Some other hotels that offer a family room or suite at an affordable price include:

• Hotel Albergo del Senato near the Pantheon
• Hotel Santa Maria in charming Trastevere
• Hotel Ponte Sisto in the historic center

Total Rome accommodations: $1,800 ($450 x 4 nights)

The price of accommodations can range wildly in Tuscany too. There are five-star resorts like Belmond’s Castello di Casole where you will spend well over $3000 per night. There are also plenty of budget-oriented, self-catering options like agriturismos or villa rentals .

With an agriturismo, you will have a self-catering apartment on a working farm. Generally, there is a shared pool and they may even offer things like breakfast or an on-site cooking class. Kids usually love this type of accommodation because it is authentic and there is room to play and sometimes farm animals roaming around. Not every property has a pool so if this is important to you, be sure to read the descriptions carefully.

Just keep in mind that agriturismos and many vacation rentals in Tuscany require a seven-night, Saturday-to-Saturday night stay. So if you fly into Italy on a Saturday morning, you would drive right from the airport into Tuscany and then finish your vacation in Rome.

A popular and very conveniently located agriturismo is Al Gelso Bianco . The furnishings are simple but the warm welcome from this family-run farm does everything to make you comfortable. Here an apartment for four can go as low as $1500-3500 for a week in high season.

When selecting an agriturismo, be sure to look into if room air conditioners or fans are available, as those are not typically found in these traditional farmhouses. Also, learn what dining options are available.

Does the stay include breakfast or is it entirely self-catered? If there is dinner available, does it need to be organized in advance? This is often the case because the meals are cooked by the owners and ingredients need to be purchased that day. Not many agriturismos offer a full-service restaurant, but some that focus more on the hotel portion of the property may have limited services.

Find places to stay in Tuscany:

Total Tuscany accommodations: $2,500

If you are spending a week in Tuscany, you are going to need a car. I recommend using Auto Europe to find the best rates across vendors. You should also book early as prices fluctuate and will continue to rise the closer you get to departure. Ideally, book by the end of January, especially if you want an automatic as the inventory is quite limited since most Europeans drive a manual transmission.

Just keep in mind that you are going to pay a premium for an automatic transmission and you may want to size up to make sure there is room for your luggage as European cars have small trunks. In my experience, an automatic station wagon that will nicely fit a family of four without being too big to manage the Tuscan hills, will cost about $600-$1500 for a weeklong rental depending on if you drop it off at the same airport or at another one. It may be tempting to rent a van or SUV, but you may regret it later when driving through small Tuscan towns or on narrow roads. Instead, encourage everyone to pack light and bring smaller luggage.

Since you don’t want to drive in Rome, I would recommend arriving on Saturday morning, picking up your rental at the FCO airport, and driving to your accommodations in Tuscany. Then, on the following Saturday, drop your rental back off at the Rome airport and then catch a cab or arrange a car service into the city (I use Welcome Pickups ) and then back to the airport on your departure. A car service to/from the airport will run approximately $65-80 and a cab is closer to $50 but it may be more cramped for your family.

You can also take a train from the airport to the Termini station in Rome, but I wouldn’t really recommend staying in that neighborhood so you will probably need to get a cab from there anyway. You could also take a regional train from Rome to Florence and get a rental car there. Train travel in Italy is pretty easy (just make sure you validate your train ticket before you board!) but when you are staying in the countryside, you are going to need a car.

When pumping gas in Italy, make sure you know if the car is diesel or unleaded. I’ve seen some disasters after people put regular gas into a diesel car! See my other tips for driving in Italy .

Total transportation: $1000

Tours and Activities

If you are traveling with kids, I highly recommend private tours. Whenever you take a group tour, you never know who is going to be part of your group and how that may disrupt your experience. There are so many family-friendly options, including some really fun and unique ways to explore Rome with kids. Private tours will usually run around $450 for a family of four.

If you want to save money, you can book a small group tour. Companies like LivTours offer small groups of no more than six people and Walks of Italy’s small groups are less than 12.

In Rome, I would highly recommend tours for the following attractions:

• An intro to Rome walking tour with gelato
• Colosseum tour for kids
• Vatican Museum / Sistine Chapel or a Vatican private tour for kids

If the budget allows, I would add tours for the following:

• Catacombs and Roman underground
• Food tour with Devour Tours (for older kids/teens)

Luckily, when you are in Tuscany it is easy to spend the week taking day trips to visit towns like Lucca, Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano, Montepulciano, Montalcino , and Pienza. However, you may want to think about a family-friendly wine or food/cheese tour with a company like Tuscan Organic Tours or a bike tour with On the Road in Chianti .

However, at a minimum, you will want to take a day trip into Florence and take a tour of the city highlights or get skip-the-line tickets to the Accademia and/or Uffizi, as well as pre-book timed entry tickets to climb the Duomo .

Total tours: $2,000 (4 x $450 + tickets)

The price of food can vary, but if you stay away from the highly touristic areas (this means walking a block or two away from any main attraction), there are plenty of affordable and delicious options. Keep in mind that a trattoria or an osteria is less formal and less expensive than a ristorante. You can also usually purchase pizza or panini and take them to go for picnics or inexpensive, casual meals.

Also, if you order your coffee and pastry at a bar and eat inside, it will be much cheaper than ordering table service and sitting outside on a piazza. That said, sometimes it is worth the price, especially when eating Tartufo and people-watching in Piazza Navona.

We tend to overspend on food, but that said, I would still plan on budgeting at least $170 for the family a day on food if you are happy with pizza and pasta. Foodies looking for fine dining experiences should budget a bit more. The good news about staying at an agriturismo is that you will likely have access to a kitchen and can prepare some meals at your lodging. This is always a great money saver and allows you to then splurge on those days when you are visiting cities or towns.

Total food: $2040

Souvenirs & Miscellaneous Expenses

While we would rather spend our travel budget on experiences versus things, there are some items that make perfect souvenirs from an Italy trip. These include wooden toys, leather goods, purses/bags, painted ceramics, blown glass, lace and linens, wine, and olive oil.

You will also want to set aside some budget for the little things including tips for your tour guides, parking (remember to bring coins in Tuscany!), gas, and taxis. I generally use a rule of thumb of $50 per day.

Total Miscellaneous: $500

Travel Insurance

I would recommend protecting your trip with travel insurance. Pricing varies depending on your level of coverage, ages, trip costs, and more. However, I would use $600-1,000 as a rough estimate (kids under 17 are usually free.)

If you follow this modest budget, your total trip to Italy cost would come to a grand total of…

Average total Family trip to Italy cost: $17,340

The bottom line is that a 12-day trip to Italy costs about $1,445 per day for a family of four . Keep in mind that there are ways to do this for less including using points for airfare or connecting with a budget airline, staying in vacation rentals, taking small group tours or self-guided exploration, cooking your own meals, and limiting your extra spending.

Of course, if you have champagne tastes, you can easily triple this cost with luxury accommodations, private transportation, and fine dining. We try to land somewhere in the middle between budget and super-luxe and that is what this budget is based on.

Download your Italy Budget Worksheet

Keep track of your expenses as you plan your trip with this downloadable Italy trip planning budget worksheet. Download the PDF worksheet .

VISITING ITALY? YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN…

• Get tips for  driving in Italy
• Get itineraries for  Rome ,  Florence ,  Venice ,  Verona , Bologna ,  Parma , and  Milan
• See tips and things to do in  Ravello ,  Cinque Terre ,   Assisi

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Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: November 29, 2023

9 thoughts on “How Much Does a Trip to Italy Cost? 2024 Budget Worksheet”

It breaks my heart that some people might see this and decide Italy is too expensive for a family trip, and then go to Disney instead and spend $6000 for a week. Airfare to Europe from the USA has never been cheaper, Airbnb/Homeaway is definitely the way to go with a family (and you can do much better than $250/nt) plus with a kitchen you save on eating out (added bonus is you feel like a local!). Car is unnecessary if you are going to mainly be in cities (and if you want, you can do a daytrip from Florence to Lucca, Pisa, or Siena by train, and get the view without the nausea-inducing twists and turns of the road, or else rent a car in Florence for JUST a day or two). Kids under 18 are free in all state museums in Italy (and often discounts in other places). Yes, it’s worth it in some museums to spring for the reserved tickets so you can skip the line (Uffizi in Florence and Vatican museums), but you do NOT need a tour for each and every place you visit. Get off the beaten path, head south (much cheaper–except for Capri and Positano, the two places Americans flock to!), and get creative. Less is more when it comes to traveling with kids. It can be less stressful, and certainly more economical, to base yourself in one or two places, and not travel around getting a different hotel every night. Finally, don’t try to see everything–you just can’t! But you can always go back! I have traveled to Italy, along with my four kids, several times, and we have never paid nearly as much as the prices quoted in this article. Stick to a few (less touristed) places, do some research beforehand, enlist the kids’ help in planning, be flexible, and you don’t need to spend more than you would on a Disneyworld vacation!

I love this!! Thank you so much 🙂 I am planning a trip for 2023 when I turn 30 and my twin sisters turn 18. I was so overwhelmed thinking of how to financially plan for the trip but this article was PERFECT! I decided to start my savings goals for 10k. I broke it down for 3 years – 365 days/year X 3 years = 1,095 days. Then, 10,000/1,095 = $9.132/day. I rounded it up to $10/day to be safe 🙂 SO SO SO EXCITED to start this savings journey. I used to app Albert (absolutely love this app), to automatically save $70/week for me. Thank you again for the article!!

That’s such a great way to think about it. There are few places in the world I love more than Italy so I’m sure it will be worth it.

So helpful as we plan our family vacation next summer to Tuscany.Even though we had already started the number crunching, the inclusion of your estimates and additional tips are great. Thanks so much !

I’m so glad to hear that it helped!

“Total airfare cost: $4,000 (assuming you use a budget airline)”

You are kidding right? Where you from? I got ticket from sweden to rome with ryanair 190€ there and back for 4 people. And hotels approx 100€/night are expensive. I got ours 50€/night. You got some other italy or what? These prices are insane 😀

Unfortunately $1000 per person from the US to Italy in the summer is pretty standard with a connection, prices are even higher if you fly direct. Off season offers better rates but I envy your options.

Thank you so much for writing this article. I was looking for something to give me guidance as we want to take our family of 4 to Italy for my daughters high school graduation present because she has dreamed of going to Italy since she was 5. This is truly perfect to help me. Thank you

I’m so glad it was helpful to you! Italy is an amazing destination. I’m actually headed back next week. Be sure to check the blog for other articles for tour reviews, restaurant recommendations, itinerary ideas, etc.

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15+ Things To Do In Tuscany Italy

T uscany. The word itself evokes a feeling in you of green rolling hills, Tuscan trees, wine, a slower pace of life, and the Tuscan sun! In this post, we will share our list of the top things to do in Tuscany.

When planning a trip to Europe you will want to have Tuscany on your list (along with Cinque Terre and Rome )! The food makes it 100% worth it not to mention that Tuscany is one of the most instagrammable places in Italy .

Tuscany is a region located on the western side of central Italy bordering the Ligurian and the Tyrrhenian Sea. It is home to large cities like Florence and Pisa and has a gorgeous landscape of hills and mountains.

It is a region known for its agriculture and wine. Being home to influential figures in the history of art and science and amazing museums. It is a large area to cover so you will want to decide how you want to spend your time in Tuscany.

• Agriturismo Farm – You can choose to immerse yourself in the Tuscan culture by staying at an Agriturismo Farm.
• Big City – You can explore the big cities of Florence and Pisa and spend days exploring the city, restaurants, history and the museums.
• Walled Cities – You can explore the historic walled cities and all of their tiny small streets, delicious gelato and history.
• Wine – Make it all about the wine and wine tasting. Don’t forget to try the olive oil too!

Whatever you choose you are going to love Tuscany and everything it brings to the table. Below we share our recommendations on how to do a little bit of everything when you are in Tuscany.

Getting Around

If you want to explore all around Tuscany you are going to need to rent a car, hire a driver or join a tour. If you are just going from Pisa to Florence you can take the train but getting out into the Tuscan countryside (which we do recommend) you will need another way to get around.

When we went we took a train to Pisa and rented a car at the airport there . We did have to walk from the train station to the airport it was about a 20 minute walk.

Renting a car in Tuscany was not difficult and I am glad we did it, it gave us the freedom to stay where we wanted to and to explore all over Tuscany!

The roads are tight but you are driving on the same side of the car and road as in the US (I’m looking at you UK!) so it wasn’t that bad at all. It just took a minute or a few miles to get used to it. We only ended up driving the wrong way on one street . . . really that was all and it all worked out. 

After our week in Tuscany, we returned the car and took the train from Pisa to Florence. We would not recommend a car for visiting Florence. It isn’t needed.

Where To Stay

Tuscany is a large area. Here is a map of where we stayed and how far out the different places we visited were. If you have specific cities you want to visit while in Tuscany you may want to find a place that is close to those.

The roads are almost all country roads and none of them are just straight. That means there is extra time added on for driving. From our location at the Diacceronia Agriturismo it was a 1 hour 15 minute drive to get to Lucca. Volterra – even though it looks a lot closer was 30 minutes and San Gimignano was about 40 minutes.

Florence was almost a 90 minute drive but we didn’t plan to explore Florence while we were staying at Diacceroni. Instead we stayed in Florence for 3 nights which we would definitely recommend you do.

We thought our location was perfect for what we wanted to do and we would recommend it IF you have a car. But based on the activities you want to do and the cities you want to visit you will want to pull up a map.

Agriturismo Farm

Stay at an Agriturismo farm . These are farm stays and one of the coolest ways to truly experience the Tuscan countryside. I researched a variety of places to stay when we were in Tuscany and they ranged from bigger cities like Pisa to small towns like San Gimignano. Throughout my search, I kept coming across these Agriturismo options and knew I needed to dig in deeper!

The further I looked the more I knew this is where we needed to stay. In a sense, it is staying on a company’s farm/property usually in an apartment, villa, or in our case a glamping tent! The place we picked made wine, wheat, Prosecco, jams, and many more delicious things! 

When we were going it was the off-season so unfortunately, we missed out on the daily planned activities that started just a couple of weeks after we left. But what that meant is we almost had the whole place to ourselves and we really got to know the owner and the amazing people working there. It was one of our top experiences in our whole 3-month trip to Europe!

Ok, so now that you know you should say at an Agriturismo Farm while you are visiting Tuscany let’s get into more details on what to do. And never fear there will be more details on our stay down below under our Where To Stay section. Make sure to keep reading to that section so you don’t miss out on pasta making, truffle hunting, wine tasting, and more!! 

Top Things To Do In Tuscany

We were able to experience the truffle hunting, pasta making and wine tasting with 5 course meal at the Agriturismo farm we were staying at and we wouldn’t have it any other way! 

Truffle Hunting

What an experience! They had a local Truffle hunter come with his 2 dogs and they took us truffle hunting on their property. He showed us how to truffle hunt, talked about the history of truffle hunting, and off we went!

We found multiple truffles – well the dogs did! And the kids were able to dig them up. After we found them they brought them to the chef and he made us an appetizer with the truffles. AMAZING!!

We also got to meet his sweet dogs and got to know more about them. When in Tuscany do this!! 

Pasta Making

We knew we wanted to do Pasta Making while in Italy and it was perfect that they offer this right on-site. Each one of us had our own station and the local chef walked us through the process of how to make multiple different kinds of pasta from scratch.

We got to choose which kind we wanted to make. After that, we used a few ingredients they had given us and made our pasta. 

We came back later that night and enjoyed our pasta for dinner! They also offer Pizza making classes which would be awesome to do too. 

Wine Tasting with 5 course meal

We did this one with just Craig and I and my parents. It was exactly how you would picture a Tuscan dinner – relaxed, long and delicious!!

They brought out 5 different courses and 5 different wines. It was done at a leisurely pace with history shared on each wine and dish we had. It was such a fun night. Another top recommended thing to do when visiting Tuscany! 

One of the beautiful sites of Northern Italy is the Apuan Alps. These majestic mountains overlook the coastline. To the locals, this mountain range is known as the Marble Mountains, because of its famous marble quarries. If you love hiking the Apuan Alps are filled with amazing trails and one of the largest cave systems.

Traditional Cooking Class with Dessert

Can you really go to Italy without learning how to make pasta and dessert? With this great cooking class , you will learn how to make 3 different types of authentic pasta and a traditional dessert. And the best part is after the class you get to eat what you prepared.

Places to visit in Tuscany

When in Tuscany we knew we wanted to visit as many walled cities as we could. What I didn’t really plan for was where we were staying and how close/far everything was. If you are someone who likes a tight itinerary where everything flows and makes sense I recommend picking out what places you want to visit in Tuscany first and from there figure out what part of Tuscany you should stay.

We did the opposite. But in the end, it all worked out and there was no way we were going to see all of Tuscany in 1 week so it was all good. 

I listed Volterra first because it was my favorite. It is so hard to believe that these types of towns actually still exist. It was literally like stepping back in time. This gorgeous hilltop town in Tuscany should not be missed.

No matter what you do when you are here make sure to set aside time just to walk the streets and explore, take pictures and just imagine yourself here hundreds of years ago. 

Here is what we did when we visited.

Parking In Volterra

You can’t park in the town. This is serious – don’t do it. It will ruin your trip to come out and find a ticket, or worse, your rental car towed away! 

Instead, find a lot to park in outside of town and be prepared to walk up the street and when I say up I mean uphill to get into Volterra. 

We parked here as this made sense based on the direction we came into town and because it was by a grocery store and we needed to get groceries before heading back to our glamping tent. Parcheggio “Torricella”, Viale Carlo Cassola, 56048 Volterra PI, Italy

A few other options we came across were: Parcheggio Porta Fiorentina parking lot (GPS: 43.403735, 10.860952), Parcheggio Macelli (GPS: 43.404381, 10.861361) or you could try the Parcheggio Docciola lot (GPS: 43.403384, 10.863572). The Vallebona lot is residents only so even though it looks tempting don’t do it! For any of these make sure to read the signs and that they haven’t changed anything about who can park here.

Map Of What We Did In Volterra:

Click here for the Interactive Map.

View point Teatro Romano

From here you can view the Teatro Romano ruins. They are really well preserved and it was interesting to look down at them from above and imagine what they were like hundreds of years ago. 

You can go down to explore the ruins and see the museum. But unfortunately, when we were there they were closed. 

San Michele Arcangelo

In Europe, you can’t not stop in a church. They are almost all unique and have amazing architecture and a story to tell. Admission into the sanctuary is free but you have to book a guided tour if you want to see the crypt.

L’isola del Gusto Gelateria

You don’t go anywhere in Italy without getting Gelato! This one did not disappoint! Be prepared for each shop to tell you that they are the best in Italy and why. It is fun to hear and we loved everyone’s passion for Gelato!

Palazzo dei Priori

We kind of stumbled into this one. It is the Bell Tower that you can pay to climb to the top of! Ask them about the city pass so you can also get entry to the Cistern and Archeologico park. Or book a private tour of Volterra and visit Palazzo dei Priori and the Cathedral.

Cisterna Romana

An old cistern that you can climb down and into. It was huge down there! Warning, if you don’t like tight spiral staircases you might want to sit this one out. If you make the trek to the bottom you will be amazed at how well-preserved this cistern is.

Parco Archeologico “Enrico Fiumi”

This green space is located in the middle of the city and is another set of ancient ruins to walk around and explore or a great place to stop and take a break. Be sure to check out the view of the Medici Fortress from the park.

La Mangiatoia

Stop here at the end of the day for a HUGE pizza. Seriously it was the largest pizza we had in Italy! 

Map of the day: https://goo.gl/maps/B1Jy5SfP8XCpbs8y6  

San Gimignano

We had heard a lot of good things about San Gimignano. We actually almost stayed here. I am glad we didn’t since the Agriturismo farm was so good. But after visiting I could see coming back to stay for 2-3 nights right in the middle of town. 

It is another walled city on the top of a hill and had so much charm!! Unfortunately the day we were there it was super rainy. But that didn’t stop us from exploring. 

We also knew we had to get Gelato here. We heard again that it was the best in Italy. I told you people like to say this! 

Parking in San Gimignano

Parking was very easy here. We parked in this lot: Parking Publico, Via Bagnaia, 89, 53037 San Gimignano SI, Italy.

Map Of Our Day In San Gimignano

Click here for the interactive map.

Piazza della Cisterna – Town Square area

When we first got there we walked the streets and made our way to the Piazza Della Cisterna. It was like the town square area and was so cool to just stand in the middle and look around. 

Gelateria Dondoli – Gelato

Right in the Piazza is the Gelato place! We got our Gelato and continued exploring San Gimignano. The architecture, the doors, the towers. It is all so cool!

San Gimignano 1300 – Model of the city

We didn’t even plan to go here but came across the building and went in and they have this awesome model of the whole town. Well worth a stop! Plus a cute gift shop. 

Chiesa di Sant’Agostino Church

From the outside, you couldn’t even tell this was a church. But once you opened the door and walked in it was gorgeous. 

Cheese Shop

Via S. Matteo, 66, 53037 San Gimignano SI, Italy (website: https://www.formedarte.it/ )

Another random stop that was so worth it! Cheese is like Gelato for me in Europe. I see it and I want it! We came across this shop that wasn’t even on Google maps and headed in. The lady inside was amazing and she let us try all different kinds of cheeses and told us all about where they come from, and why they tasted different, and asked us questions to try to figure out which cheese we would prefer. 

With it being such a rainy day we didn’t get to explore San Gimignano the way we wanted to. But what we did say definitely made us add it to this list and we 100% want to go back! 

Lucca is one of the bigger cities in Tuscany and still has the full wall around the city intact! Here is what we recommend when you visit Lucca. 

Parking in Lucca

Depending on where you are coming in from you are going to park in a lot that is located outside of the city walls. You should put: Parcheggio gratuito into Google maps and see what comes up for you based on the route you are taking into Lucca. Parcheggio gratuito means free parking.

Map Of What We Did In Lucca

I used this view for the map so you can better see where the city wall is and how it goes around the whole city.

For an interactive map click here.

We also downloaded the GPSMyCity guide of Lucca so we could learn more about the city and share it with the kids.

Ride Bikes Around The City Wall

There is a path that goes around the whole top of the City Wall. When we got there we found the closest bike rental place and rented 4-person bikes to take around the wall! 

We rented our bikes from the corner of Via Francesco Carrara & Via San Girolamo, 55100 Lucca LU, Italy. The place isn’t listed on Google – but it looked legit . . . so we went with it. We took the bike up to the top of the wall and made our way all the way around the wall.

The route is 2.7 miles. Click here to see the route.

It was a little bit of a workout but not bad and was a great way to see the city!

Piazza San Martino

This large piazza, located in the center of Lucca, holds many events for the city and also has a Romanesque style cathedral that is worth seeing! We didn’t go inside but from the outside it is very impressive to look at.

Guinigi Tower

We paid to climb a lot of steps up to the Guinigi Tower. You can see the tower from all over town and it has full-grown trees on top of it! 

It was cool to climb up there and it gave us a great view of the city.

Piazza dell’Anfiteatro

This circular shape piazza is built on the grounds of an ancient Roman amphitheater. It is one of the most recognizable piazza’s in Tuscany due to its shape and the colorful buildings around the piazza. You can access the piazza from 4 “doors” that lead you into it.

Walk through the city

It is always good to just wander through the city streets to see what you come across and to just explore the city without a plan! There are also a variety of Piazzas throughout the city that you can stop at. 

Pizza – Pizzeria da Felice

You can’t eat enough pizza while you are in Italy. It’s all so tasty and a very cheap meal. This was a little shop where you order the pizza and bring it outside to stand and eat or grab one of the 2 small tables inside.

Be aware you are eating along a very narrow street that cars do come down! The cars go slow but just a heads up this isn’t going to be a sit down and relax kind of meal.

Visit the historic city of Siena and check out the Piazza del Campo. It is said to be one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares. Siena is one of 7 Unesco World Heritage Sites in Tuscany. While walking through the city be sure to check out Duomo to see the masterpieces made by Michelangelo on a guided tour .

You can never eat too much while in Italy. Be sure to take a Food and Wine Tour of Siena to experience the best tastes the city has to offer.

I am not going to include Florence in this post as we have a whole post coming on Florence AND Florence needs its own trip! When you visit Florence you will want to stay in the city so you can walk everywhere. See the amazing renaissance art at the Uffizi Gallery, do a local food tour, visit the Piazzale Michelangelo for sunset, and check out the Ponte Vecchio to name a few things!

When you visit Tuscany you will want to stay out in the Tuscan countryside or in one of the walled cities. If this isn’t an option there are a lot of day trips from Florence that you can take to explore more of Tuscany.

Here are a few great options:

From Florence spend a day visiting the beautiful medieval cities of Siena, San Gimignano, and Monteriggioni. This great tour includes wine and olive oil tastings.

Explore the Tuscan countryside and winding roads via Vespa on this guided Vespa tour.

See the beauty of the floating city of Venice with this great guided tour that leaves from Florence. Spend a full day exploring Venice on this amazing guided tour.

We went into Pisa to rent the car but that was it. But we were just too excited to get to our glamping tent that we didn’t take the time to explore Pisa. We have heard great things about it and of course you can go and see the leaning tower of Pisa!

Here are a few other things we saw that would be fun to do in Pisa:

Learn about the history and architecture of Pisa including the iconic Leaning Tower on a guided walking tour . You can even climb up the tower for great views of the city.

Visit Pisa’s Square of Miracles and get fast-track tickets to the Cathedral, the Opera del Duomo Museum, Baptistery, Cemetery, and the Sinopie Museum with this audio-guided tour .

Explore the magic of Pisa on this private sightseeing walking tour . Find out what makes Pisa unique from a local.

Diaccorni Farm Stay

We stayed for a week at Diacceroni Agriturismo Farm and it was amazing! By staying at a family-run place for a week you really get comfortable and start to feel like you are part of the family. 

The owner is walking around all the time and checking in on you. So are all of the workers from the waitresses to the chefs and the social media person. We felt so welcomed and had an amazing time!

If you come in the summer season they have weekly activities set up (pizza making, welcome dinner, etc). We came in the off-season so none of this was going on yet. Which may have been better?? Since we got to spend more time with the people who work here since they weren’t as busy! 

The one we stayed at is known for its wheat production and also has a delicious line of wine. At the front store, they had a shop filled with pasta, wine, sauces, etc. You were able to select whatever you wanted and write down in a book what you took and how much it was. At the end of the week, you pay for all of it. 

They also had a huge breakfast spread every morning and would make omelets to order. It was a set fee for the all-you-could-eat buffet-style breakfast with yummy coffee and juices too. 

You could make a reservation for lunch or dinner and order off of the menu. We did this a couple of nights and got the Florentine steak multiple times! Most of the food is local from the farm which means it is so fresh!! 

When the weather was nice we were able to sit out on these gorgeous spots overlooking Tuscany. It was so nice to be able to just walk everywhere, have a nice leisurely breakfast or dinner and walk back. In the summer they also have a saltwater pool available. 

Besides all the great food they offer a variety of activities that they offer on-site: Horseback riding, 4X4 rides, wine tasting, and tours.

We are going to stay true to our one recommendation of the Dacciaroni Agriturismo Farm . They have a variety of options for what type of place you can stay in. We opted for the glamping tents and loved it!

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The post 15+ Things To Do In Tuscany Italy appeared first on Crazy Family Adventure .

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I've Lived in Italy for 15 Years — and These Are My Favorite Lesser-known Destinations

Fewer crowds. More authentic Italy.

Elizabeth Heath is a writer and editor living on a hill in Umbria, from where she writes about travel in Italy, the rest of Europe, and farther afield.

xbrchx/Getty Images

If I start to wax on about how much Italy has changed in the 15 years I’ve lived here, and how crowded it’s become, someone please stop me. Yes, it’s true the crowds have increased, overwhelmingly so in some places. And yes, globalism and the global pandemic have ruthlessly affected small-scale retailers and artisanal producers of every type. Much of the Italy that confronts visitors seems a bit too polished, like a cleaned-up, curated version of the real thing. After all these years, it sometimes feels like there’s nothing new under the Italian sun.

But just when I start to think I’ve seen all there is to see in Italy, I visit another great, new-to-me corner of the country that’s relatively free of crowds and serves as a reminder that there’s much more than the well-worn circuit so many pursue. There are lived-in mountain villages, traditional seaside towns that have remained unchanged in the last 50 years, and thriving cities where Italians of all ages live, work, study, and meet for a coffee or an aperitivo . Here are five of my recent favorites.

Pizzo, Calabria

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The southern region of Calabria isn’t the place to visit if you want a highly curated version of Italy. It’s lived-in and slightly unkempt, with idyllic towns and warm inhabitants. For some seaside flavor, visit the town of Pizzo, which Cherrye Moore of My Bella Vita Travel called “the lesser-known cousin of Tropea ” as we walked to its pleasant piazza. You’ll hear way more Italian than English here, as well as streets, shops, and markets filled with locals going about their daily routines. This stretch of the Tyrrhenian coast offers brilliantly clear, blue water and lots of small coves with sandy beaches. The tartufo , a decadent gelato dessert, is best where it was invented, at Gelateria Ercole . And bright Piccolo Grand Hotel is the nicest in a town that values simplicity over swankiness.

Trieste, Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Dario Argenti/Getty Images

Italy’s most elegant city is also one of its most historically fascinating, thanks to its strategic location on the northern Adriatic Sea. “Trieste is a bridge between two worlds,” our guide, Francesca, said as she walked us through Miramare Castle , the 19th-century seaside palace of Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian of Austria. During its five-plus centuries of Habsburg rule, Trieste was Austria’s only link to the sea, and vitally important in times of both war and peace. In the Cold War years, it was on the frontier of the Iron Curtain, with the former Yugoslavia just about six miles away. Today, it’s a mostly harmonious mix of Italian, Austro-Hungarian, and Slavic/Slovenian cultures, languages, cuisines, and architecture. Grand Hotel Duchi d'Aosta is a five-star property in the city, or make it a beach break at Tivoli Portopiccolo Sistiana Wellness Resort & Spa , a full-service resort about 30 minutes from Trieste.

Bressanone/Brixen, South Tyrol

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Some of our best summer vacations as a family have been to the Dolomites , which has glorious weather, dramatic scenery, and pretty small towns . My latest favorite place is Bressanone (or Brixen in the province’s first language of German), the oldest town in South Tyrol. Its colorful, compact center dates to the 12th century and is just as charming as you want it to be — even its cathedral is done up in shades of blue and yellow. Nearby Mount Plose is a winter ski resort, but also a summer playground where you can hop on a mountain coaster, hike, or go mountain biking. Back in Brixen, Adler Historic Guesthouse offers cozy dining and a riverfront setting. In nearby Luson, we stayed at Sonnwies Dolomites , a kid-friendly resort that also takes good care of parents.

Paestum, Campania

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Italy has no shortage of important archaeological sites, but its most popular ones are overrun with visitors most of the year. That’s why visiting the Archaeological Park of Paestum , on the Tyrrhenian coast south of Salerno, is a refreshing alternative. The mighty Greek temples here (the site was part of ancient Magna Grecia) were standing when Rome was still a swampy settlement of mud huts, and they remain remarkably preserved. It’s quite something to wander among these monumental stacks of stone, where an absence of crowds makes the past seem a lot closer. Bonus: Paestum is a beach town, and while it's known among Italians, you’re not likely to hear much English spoken. The Savoy Hotel & Spa is a pleasantly upscale choice in the area, and it has its own beach club and buffalo mozzarella farm.

Ravenna, Emilia-Romagna

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Ravenna , a low-lying city near the Adriatic Sea, is easily one of Italy’s most livable places, and it’s one that visitors — especially art history lovers — shouldn’t overlook. The Romans, Ostrogoths, and Byzantines all left their marks here, most notably in elaborate mosaics — those in the Basilica of San Vitale date to the 500s and are among the most beautiful creations of western art. Ravenna’s manageably sized centro storico is well-suited for walking or biking, and its cafes, roomy piazzas, and large covered market are optimal for watching daily life go by in an Italian city. (No wonder Dante chose to remain here after he was banished from Florence.) Expect a lot more vacation rentals than hotels in the centro, though Palazzo Bezzi Ravenna is among the chicer options.

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