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The 20 Best Italy Tours

See Italy's top tourist attractions and stunning cities on these guided excursions.

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Visitors can discover charming neighborhoods, enjoy delicious food and see top sights on Italy's best tours.

There's so much to see and do in Italy that it can feel a bit overwhelming to plan a trip that makes the most of the country's fabled history, art, architecture and cuisine – not to mention its 55-plus UNESCO World Heritage sites. Guided tours are an efficient, hassle-free way to explore the country's top attractions and cities. These Italy tours – considered the best by travelers and experts alike – vary by region, focus and method of transportation, but they all have one thing in common: highly motivated and informed guides ready to help you better appreciate your time in this beautiful European country.

The Roman Food Tour – Prati by Sunset – Rome Food Tour

Price: Adults from 135 euros (about $148); kids from 80 euros (about $88) Duration: 4 hours

Enjoy Italian cuisine via this small group walking tour of five food-centric places in Rome 's Prati neighborhood near Vatican City . Stops include a cafe, a pizzeria and a gourmet food shop, and food samples typically include cheese, truffles, cured meat, pasta, tiramisu and pizza as well as wine. Food and wine enthusiasts regularly report enjoying learning about Roman culinary arts from the passionate, well-informed guides on this tour.

Outings last about four hours and are available daily all year long starting at 4:30, 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. with additional 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. start times from May through October. Prices start at 135 euros (about $148) for adults, 89 euros (about $98) for teenagers 13 to 17 and 80 euros (about $88) for children 5 to 12. Prices cover all food and beverage samples, which may exceed 20 in total. The Roman Food Tour offers a variety of other foodie outings to different areas around the city, including one to the Trionfale neighborhood.

View & Book Tickets:  Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3

City Wonders – Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip-the-Line Tour

Price: Adults from $42; kids from $37 Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Visit some of the most famous attractions in Rome on this 2- to 3-hour walking tour. Highlights include the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums, which are filled with historic art pieces. Tour-takers rave about the spectacular art and architecture and appreciate the insightful guides.

Tours depart multiple times a day Monday through Saturday, typically between around 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Tickets start at $42 for adults and around $37 for children ages 6 to 18 (kids 5 and younger tour for free), but prices may vary by day and time. Tickets cover all entrance fees. Groups are limited to 20 participants. Note: Modest attire may be required to enter some sites. City Wonders operates several other tours around Rome as well as in other Italian cities like Milan .

View & Book Tickets:  Viator | GetYourGuide

LivItaly Tours – Colosseum Underground Tour with Arena, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum

Price: Adults from 139 euros (about $152); kids from 124 euros (about $135) Duration: 3 hours

Explore renowned sites of ancient Rome on this three-hour walk. Tours start at the Colosseum and visit areas of the amphitheater, such as underground cages and dungeons, that relatively few people get to see due to space and ticketing limitations. Other highlights include the Palatine Hill, one of Rome's seven hills where politicians of the Roman Empire once lived and where the ruins of numerous buildings from that era remain, and the Forum , once the center of social and political activity in ancient Rome. Reviewers frequently say the guides are not only informative, but also humorous and make learning about Roman history fun.

Tours, which are limited to six participants, are offered daily at a variety of times, typically between 9:15 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Tickets start at 139 euros (about $152) for adults, 129 euros (about $141) for teenagers ages 13 to 17 and 124 euros (about $135) for kids ages 3 to 12. Students also receive a slight discount. LivItaly runs multiple tours in Rome, including one that visits some of the city's top attractions .

View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2

Walkabout Florence Tours – The Best of Tuscany in One Day Trip from Florence

Price: Adults from 83 euros (about $91); kids from 70 euros (about $77) Duration: 12 hours

Take a day to experience Tuscany and its UNESCO World Heritage sites on this trip via air-conditioned coach. Highlights include a guided walking tour in the medieval town of Siena , a visit to San Gimignano and a trip through the countryside to Pisa. Optional upgrades include lunch and wine-tasting at a Chianti vineyard and skip-the-line entry to Pisa's famous Leaning Tower . While trip-takers consistently describe the guides as knowledgeable and personable, they also appreciate having time to explore each destination on their own.

Buses depart from Florence 's Piazza Stazione daily at 8 a.m. and return approximately 12 hours later. Prices start at 83 euros (about $91) for adults and 70 euros (about $77) for kids ages 8 to 17, not including lunch. The full tour, including lunch at the winery and access to the tower, costs approximately 113 euros (around $123) for adults and 100 euros (approximately $109) for kids. Note: While there's no charge for children younger than 8 to take the tour, they cannot climb the tower.

View & Book Tickets: Viator

Walks of Italy – Legendary Venice: St. Mark's Basilica with Terraces & Doge's Palace

Price: Adults from $113; kids from $107 Duration: 3 hours

This tour encompasses some of the most significant spots in Venice : St. Mark's Square , St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace . Both the church and the palace are art-filled buildings with eventful histories. (The palace, for instance, was more than a site of political administration; it also contains prisons and torture chambers.) Guides recount the colorful backstories, which tour-takers invariably find informative and entertaining.

Three-hour walking tours beginning in the square happen daily at 2 p.m. and every day except Sunday at 9:30 a.m. Earlier departures (at 8 a.m.) may also be available on select days. Tickets start around $113 for adults and $107 for children 2 to 14, though you may find some higher or lower prices depending on the date and time. (There's no charge for infants.) The visit to the basilica includes access to a balcony affording views of the square and nearby lagoon. Another bonus? Taking this tour enables you to bypass the lines to enter the palace and the basilica.

View & Book Tickets: Viator | GetYourGuide

Withlocals – The 10 Tastings of Venice

Price: From 85 euros (about $93) per person for a group of six Duration: 3 hours

As its name indicates, this tour features 10 tastings of typical Venetian food and drinks. It's essentially a private, customizable, small-group walking tour that can be tailored to participants' interests. Even so, samples usually include local favorites like spritz (a wine-based cocktail) and gelato. Tour-takers tend to enjoy both the visits to multiple local eateries and the amusing guides' insightful commentary.

Three-hour tours depart from Venice's Campo Manin daily with multiple start times; the earliest is typically 10 a.m. and the latest 6 p.m. Prices vary by group size and start at approximately 252 euros (about $275) for one person (the minimum) and descend to about 85 euros (about $93) per person for groups of six (the maximum). Groups larger than six should contact the tour company directly to schedule.

Blue Star Boat Tours – Amalfi Coast Group Tour

Price: From $88 Duration: 7 hours

Another option for seeing the beaches and caves of the UNESCO-listed Amalfi Coast is from the water. Sights seen on this daylong expedition typically include the picturesque geological features of Fiordo di Furore beach; Grotta della Pandora, a cave accessible only from the sea; and the Emerald Grotto, named for the color of the light that fills the cave. The approximately seven-hour tour, which departs from Positano, also includes an hour or two of free time to explore the town of Amalfi. Travelers typically appreciate the professional, personable staff and the opportunities to swim in such a scenic setting.

Tickets cost approximately $88 per person. There is a maximum of 12 people per group. Note: There's an additional fee to enter the Emerald Grotto. Private boat tours and sunset cruises are also available.

You Know! – Sorrento Coast and Capri Boat Tour from Sorrento

Price: Adults from 104 euros (about $114); kids from 84 euros (about $92) Duration: 9 hours

See the sights along the Sorrento coast, including a waterfall, a lighthouse and Roman ruins, on this boat ride. The tour also features a three- to five-hour stop on Capri during which travelers can explore the small island's famed Piazzetta, as well as churches and a medieval district. There's also time for swimming and snorkeling. Tour-takers consistently find the scenery beautiful and the guides professional and friendly.

The approximately nine-hour trips happen daily starting at 9:45 a.m. Prices vary by season, but typically start at around 104 euros (about $114) for participants 10 and older and 84 euros (about $92) for kids ages 3 to 9. (There's no cost for infants to join the trip.) Trips are capped at 12 to 14 people. Prices include transportation between Sorrento and the port as well as snacks and beverages on the boat. Fees don't cover lunch on Capri, snorkeling equipment or entrance fees to attractions. The company also offers boat tours to Capri that depart from Amalfi.

World Tours Italy – Pompeii and Amalfi Coast (with Lunch)

Price: From 128 euros (about $140) Duration: 8 hours

Visit two UNESCO World Heritage sites on this daylong excursion. When the volcano Vesuvius erupted in A.D. 79, ash swallowed the city of Pompeii and preserved many buildings. Now, the archeological site affords glimpses into how people lived during the era of the Roman Empire. This trip includes two to three hours at Pompeii as well as a drive along the Amalfi Coast with stops in the towns of Amalfi and Ravello, both of which boast notable art and architecture. You'll also have a few photo stops, including one in Positano . Travelers consistently remark on the exceptional coastal scenery and the insight and humor of the guides at Pompeii.

Tours occur daily. Passenger pickups begin around 7:30 a.m.; the drive to Sorrento begins at just before 9 a.m. After a busy day, the tour returns to the city around 5:30 p.m. Tickets start at 128 euros (about $140) for adults, with discounts for children ages 5 to 12. (There's no fee for children younger than 5.) Prices vary by time and day. Keep in mind that tours in English may not be offered in the colder months. Prices include lunch at a restaurant on the coast, but do not cover entrance to Pompeii. If you can't get enough of the Amalfi Coast, World Tours also offers daytrips that visit Capri and Sorrento.

Prestige Rent – Wine Experience in Tuscany

Price: Adults from 89 euros (about $97); kids from 79 euros (about $86) Duration: 5 hours

Enjoy red wines typical of the Chianti region on this trip to two wineries. You'll also sample Tuscan fare, including olive oil, cheese and cured meat, during this approximately five-hour outing. Along the roughly 45-minute drive from Florence, guides will provide background information on local viniculture. At each stop, resident experts will describe the wine-making process. Wine lovers typically find the samples delicious and the guides energetic and informative.

Tours, which are capped at 25 participants, are offered twice a day starting at 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Prices start at 89 euros (about $97) for adults and 79 euros (about $86) for youngsters 12 to 17 and include transportation between Florence's Piazzale Montelungo and the vineyards, as well as the various food and beverage samples. Note: Children younger than 12 are not permitted on this tour. Prestige Rent also leads tours to Siena and San Gimignano.

Italian Days Food & Wine Tours – Bologna Food and Wine Tour #1

Price: Adults from 180 euros (about $197); kids from 150 euros (about $164) Duration: 8 hours

Observe the production of three Italian staples – Parmigiano-Reggiano, balsamic vinegar and prosciutto – on this daylong culinary excursion. Of course, this tour also includes samples of the cheese, vinegar and cured meat, as well as breakfast, coffee, wine and a multicourse family-style lunch. Throughout the day, guides explicate the food-making processes, which foodies invariably find fascinating.

Minibuses pick up in front of Grand Hotel Majestic in Bologna around 7 a.m. and head to Modena every day except Sunday. The tour lasts about eight hours. Tickets start at around 180 euros (about $197) for adults and 150 euros (about $164) for children 2 to 11, though costs vary by season. Prices include transportation as well food and beverages. The tour is capped at 18 participants. Italian Days offers a variety of food tours, including a walking tour in Bologna.

View & Book Tickets:  Viator

Bici & Baci Tours – The Grand Tour of Rome

Price: From 150 euros (about $164) Duration: 3 hours

Admire the signature sights of Rome from atop an Italian Vespa, on this approximately 22-mile ride around the city. Highlights include the Aurelian Walls, the Appian Way , the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain , St. Peter's Basilica , the Pantheon , ruins of ancient aqueducts and baths, and more. Reviewers consistently describe the guides as helpful, skillful, knowledgeable and enthusiastic.

Fees start at 150 euros (about $164) for a single person operating a Vespa or a passenger riding with a guide. Fees are about 250 euros (about $273) for two people on a scooter. Prices include use of a helmet as well as coffee or ice cream. Daily tours start at 10 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. and typically last around three hours.

Note: Operators of Vespas must have valid motorcycle or driver's licenses. Children are permitted as passengers with their parents as long as they are tall enough for their feet to reach the scooters' foot pegs. The company also operates tours that travel to some of the city's most iconic movie filming locations.

City Wonders – Best of Milan Duomo Cathedral & Da Vinci's 'Last Supper' Tour

Price: Adults from $125; kids from $114 Duration: 3 hours

Take a walking tour of Milan and enjoy skip-the-line access to two of its top attractions. You'll experience the Duomo , a monumental cathedral, construction of which commenced around 1386 and went on for centuries. Another highlight of this trip is a visit to Leonardo's "The Last Supper" in its original location, a former convent. Plus, you'll visit spots like Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a 19th-century shopping arcade housing upscale boutiques; Sforzesco Castle , a 15th-century military fortification; and the cobbled streets of the Brera district. Travelers consistently describe the guides as insightful and professional.

This excursion happens multiple times every day except Monday. Specific start times vary by day. Tours last three hours, including 15 minutes with the famous painting. Prices start at around $125 for anyone 15 and older and $114 for those 14 and younger. Groups have no more than 14 participants.

Grape Tours in Tuscany – Super Chianti Wine Tour

Price: From 195 euros (about $213) Duration: 7 hours

Spend a day indulging in wine on this trip to the cellars and vineyards of two wineries. In addition to visiting Chianti and Chianti classico wineries and sampling vino, cheese and olive oil, you'll also enjoy lunch at an eatery in the Tuscan hilltop town of Panzano. Wine lovers report enjoying learning about the regions' wine from the adept guides.

Tours happen every day except Sunday. Buses leave Florence at 10 a.m. and return approximately seven hours later. Tours, including transportation and food and beverages, cost approximately 195 euros (about $213) per person. The outing welcomes up to eight participants, and guests must be at least 16 years old.

View & Book Tickets:  Grape Tours in Tuscany

TopBike Rental & Tours – Rome City Bike Tour

Price: From 65 euros (about $71) Duration: 4 hours

Wind through the streets of Rome and see several of its famed attractions on this four-hour electric bike ride, offered in either the morning or the afternoon. Tours may include visits to popular attractions like the Colosseum, the Piazza Navona , the Jewish Ghetto, the Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps and the Orange Garden for its views of the city, including the dome of St. Peter's. Cyclists regularly praise the insightful, friendly guides on this leisurely ride.

Morning start times vary by time of year, but are usually 8:45 or 9:30 a.m.; afternoon trips start at 2 or 3 p.m. It costs approximately 65 euros (about $71) to take this ride, and that includes use of an e-bike and helmet. The company also operates daylong bike tours that include lunch, as well as guided outings along the Appian Way.

City Wonders – Florence Fully Guided Tour with Uffizi Gallery, Michelangelo's David and Accademia

Price: Adults from $108; kids from $102 Duration: 5 hours

Bypass the lines to enter both the Uffizi Gallery – home to 14th-century and Renaissance masterpieces by the likes of Botticelli, Leonardo, Raphael, Michelangelo and Caravaggio – and the Accademia Gallery – where Michelangelo's 14-foot David sculpture resides – on this tour. In addition to independent visits to the galleries, the small-group outing includes a two-hour guided walking tour of the center of Florence to see top sights, such as its cathedral, the Ponte Vecchio bridge, the leather market and Piazza della Signoria. Tour-takers generally appreciate the guides' commentary regarding the city's art, architecture and history. Others warned future travelers that the visits to the galleries are unguided.

Half-day tours with 10 and 10:30 a.m. start times happen daily. Prices are about $108 for adults and $102 for children 4 to 14. Children 3 and younger tour for free. Groups are limited to 17 people.

Walkabout Florence Tours – Cinque Terre Day Trip from Florence with optional Hiking Tou

Price: Adults from 113 euros (about $123); kids from 100 euros (about $109) Duration: 13 hours

This daylong expedition takes travelers to the towns comprising the Cinque Terre , a string of old fishing villages overlooking the Mediterranean Sea that form part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Buses travel from Florence to Manarola, home to vineyards and colorful buildings typical of the area. From there, trains head to Corniglia, which boasts unrivaled views of the sea. After lunch, participants can either hike the mule trails that connect the towns or ride a train to Vernazza, where swimming or visiting cafes and bars are among the optional activities. Trains then proceed to Monterosso, a town known for both beaches and shops. Weather permitting, the tour also includes a boat ride to the fifth and final Cinque Terre town, Riomaggiore. Trip-takers rave about both the scenic locations and the efficient, personable guides.

Tourgoers return to Florence approximately 13 hours after the daily 7:30 a.m. departure time. Tickets for the tour start at around 113 euros (about $123) for adults and 100 euros (about $109) for kids 8 to 17. Children younger than 8 are not permitted. Prices do not include lunch in Corniglia, but an upgrade is available for an additional fee.

Delicious Bologna – Daylight Food Tour Bologna

Price: Adults from 90 euros (about $98); kids from 70 euros (about $76) Duration: 4 to 5 hours

Taste some of the essentials of Italian cuisine on this small-group walking tour. In addition to a light breakfast of cappuccino and cornetto (a croissant-like pastry) and lunch of multiple pasta dishes, this outing features samples of local cheese, cured meat, vinegar and wine. It also visits a food market and a pasta factory. Throughout, guides provide commentary about regional culture and traditions, which culinary enthusiasts tend to find informative.

Tours take place every day except Sunday at 10 a.m. and last four to five hours. Groups of up to eight people begin the day at the Piazza di Porta Ravegnana. Fees start at 90 euros (about $98) for adults and 70 euros (about $76) for kids and teens ages 2 to 14. (There's no charge for infants.) Additional food and wine tours, as well as cooking classes, are hosted by Delicious Bologna.

Streaty Street Food Tours of Italy – Palermo Street Food and Local Market Tour

Price: Adults from 54 euros (about $59); kids from 20 euros (about $22) Duration: 3 hours

Savor varieties of Sicilian fare on this walking tour of Sicily 's capital, Palermo. Samples are likely to include arancina (stuffed rice balls), cazzilli fritters, pani câ meusa (a veal offal roll), sfincione (focaccia with tomato sauce), cannoli filled with ricotta, broscia col gelato (an ice cream sandwich) and seasonal items, as well as beer and wine. After departing from Teatro Massimo, tours wind through backstreets rather than the city's main thoroughfares. Travelers typically find this tour both fun and educational.

Walks last three hours and are available at multiple times Monday through Saturday all year, usually starting between 10 and 11 a.m. Prices start at 54 euros (about $59) for participants ages 12 and older and 20 euros (about $22) for children 6 to 11. Groups are limited to 10 participants. The company also offers an evening food tour in Palermo.

Etna Tribe – Excursion Etna and Taormina

Price: Adults from 85 euros (about $93); kids from 70 euros (about $76) Duration: 9 hours

Explore Mount Etna , an active volcano on the east coast of Sicily that ranks as the highest island mountain in the Mediterranean, on this daylong tour. Your guide will drive you from Catania to a section on Etna's south face where you'll hike up to 6,560 feet above sea level, or (for additional fees) take a cable car up to 8,200 feet. From there, you'll have the option of taking a van to Torre del Filosofo, which sits at an elevation of more than 9,500 feet. With an alpine guide leading the way, you'll explore the lava-carved terrain. The trip also includes a stop at an organic farm and a visit to the town of Taormina, where you'll have time to wander among attractions, such as a cathedral, a clock tower, a palace and a theater, before the drive back to Catania. Tour-takers enjoy walking among the volcano craters and learning about the area from the friendly, accommodating guides.

Pickup starts at 8:30 a.m. and tours, which occur daily, last approximately nine hours. Prices start at 85 euros (about $93) for those 12 and older, 70 euros (about $76) for kids ages 3 to 11 and 20 euros (about $22) for infants. Paying online in advance may save you a few euros per ticket. The optional cable car ride costs an additional 50 euros (about $55) and the high-altitude option, including both the cable car and the van rides, start at 78 euros (about $85) per person. Etna Tribe also offers sunset excursions to the mountain, among other options.

The Best Multiday Tours in Italy

While there are plenty of tours across Italy's most popular cities that last a few hours or an entire day, some travelers may be interested in multiday tours that visit several destinations or points of interest. Below are some of the top multiday tours in Italy.

• Best of Italy: Visit Rome, Assisi, Siena, Florence, Bologna, Venice and more. Book on GetYourGuide .
• Amalfi Coast Small Group Tour: Explore Pompeii, Capri and Sorrento. Book on Viator .
• Scenic Sicily Tour: See the towns of Taormina, Palermo, Mount Etna and Erice. Book on Viator .
• Classic Cultural Cities: Discover the sights of Rome, Venice and Florence. Book on Viator.
• Highlights of the Italian Lakes: Enjoy Milan, Lake Como, Lake Maggiore, Lake Garda and more. Book on Grand European Travel .
• Scenic Sailing Adventure: Sail around Sardinia and Corsica. Book on Viator .
• Fun for Foodies: Taste your way across Italy on a nine-day food tour. Book on The Table Less Traveled .

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Places to Visit in Italy
• The Most Beautiful Beaches in Italy
• The Best International Travel Insurance
• The Best Places to Visit in Europe
• The Best Cheap European Vacations

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , Italy

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Italy Tours and Trips 2024/2025

The mention of Italy conjures up ideas of romance, fantastic food and cobbled streets. Explore the museums and the vineyards on Italy group tours . Learn about Renaissance heritage on Italy culture tours . Go for an adventure with a guide to take on the unfamiliar terrain and trails on Italy escorted tours .

• Italy Travel Guide
• Things to do in Italy
• Best Time to Visit Italy

+300 Trips in Italy with 1,811 Reviews

• Starts Venice, Italy
• Ends Rome, Italy

Highlights of Italy

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Art and architecture City sightseeing , Art and architecture , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Countryside and village visits & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='3759'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Hostel & Guest House
• Transport Train, Boat & Bus
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Operated in English
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• May 18 Only 6 seats left
• May 22 Only 7 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Starts Rome, Italy
• Ends Amalfi Coast & Campania, Italy

Rome to Amalfi

• Activities City sightseeing & Art and architecture City sightseeing , Art and architecture , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Volcanoes , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Cruise 'data-more-tripid='3784'>+4 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Villa, Resort & Hut
• Transport Boat, Train, Bus, Private Vehicle & Ferry
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,750
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• Ends Florence, Italy

Gems Of Rome & Florence

• Activities Art and architecture & Food tours
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• Transport Train, Coach & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 10-99 yrs
• Operated in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,411
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• May 19 10+ seats left

Italian Express: The Best Of Italy

• Trip customizable
• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture & Trekking and Hiking 'data-more-tripid='19728'>+2 more
• Transport Private Vehicle, Train, Boat, Ferry, Coach & Bullet Train
• Age Range 4-99 yrs
• Operated in English, Spanish

• Ends Venice, Italy

Ultimate Italy

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Countryside and village visits Cultural, religious and historic sites , Countryside and village visits , Sailing, yachting and motor boating , Walking tours & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='4952'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Villa
• Transport Train, Boat, Bus & Taxi
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• May 12 Only 1 seat left
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• Starts Naples, Italy
• Ends Bomerano, Italy

Highlights of the Amalfi Coast

• Activities Food tours & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Transport Boat, Bus & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• May 18 Only 1 seat left
• May 25 Only 3 seats left

• Starts Catania, Italy
• Ends Palermo, Italy

Small Group Food & Wine Tour of Sicily

• Free cancellation
• Activities Food tours & Wine tasting tours Food tours , Wine tasting tours , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Countryside and village visits & Local culture 'data-more-tripid='22521'>+3 more
• Transport Minibus
• Age Range 1-89 yrs

Trending Destinations in Italy

Europe Escape

• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities City sightseeing
• Transport Coach, Boat, Taxi & Train
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,990
• Special Deal (35%): - US$ 1,046
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• May 19 Only 5 seats left
• Jun 02 Only 2 seats left

Italian Delights

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='37627'>+1 more
• Transport Coach, Taxi, Train & Ferry
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,440
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Jewels of Italy

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• Age Range 5-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,250
• Special Deal (14%): - US$ 170
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• May 12 Only 5 seats left
• May 19 Only 10 seats left

Best of Italy

• Activities City sightseeing & Art and architecture City sightseeing , Art and architecture , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits , Cruise , Countryside and village visits & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='3788'>+5 more
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,580
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European Highlights

• Activities Mountains & City sightseeing
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• Brochure Price: US$ 2,560
• Special Deal (36%): - US$ 909
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• May 19 Only 1 seat left
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• Starts Matera, Italy
• Ends Lecce, Italy

Puglia: Discover the Heel of Italy

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• Brochure Price: US$ 2,617
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Italian Discovery

• Activities Explorer
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• Age Range 6-80 yrs
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Traveling to Italy? Chat with a local travel specialist in Italy who can help organize your trip.

Italy Tour Reviews

• Michael May

Traveller Photos for Trips in Italy

Italy — Tour Highlights and Travel Tips

Tour Highlights

• Marvel at the Colosseum and Roman Forum in Rome.
• Head to Siena and watch the annual horse race.
• Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
• Explore Venice on a gondola ride.
• Dine a margherita pizza in Naples.

Travel Tips

• For authentic Italian cuisine, look for a restaurant with a full Italian menu instead of those catering only to tourists.
• Italians take great pride in their food, so do not make any special food requests.
• Make sure you are full before 7 PM. Italian restaurants rarely open after that.
• Keep your belongings safe as some Italian cities have a bad reputation for pickpocketing.
• Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting churches and other holy sites.
• The best tourist spots are less crowded in the mornings.

Popular tour types in Italy

• Italy budget tours: Traveling on a shoestring budget? See all the big hitters on one of our Italy budget tours . Take a ride along the canals of Venice, hike the Amalfi Coast, or gaze in wonder at the Colosseum in Rome. Designed to suit tight budgets, these tours give you the most bang for your buck.
• Italy guided tours: Looking for a more structured experience? Our Italy guided tours have been designed to make you feel safe and informed while giving you the pleasure to take in some of the country’s most beloved sights, including Cinque Terre, the Trulli huts of Puglia, Tuscan vineyards, and more.
• Italy luxury tours: Sometimes you just want to treat yourself to the finer things of life. We have you covered with our Italy high-end tours . Staying in four- and five-star accommodations, you can wake up refreshed and in the heart of the action. Whether that is exploring the Uffizi in Florence, wandering around Pompeii, or learning more about the Vatican.
• Italy private tours: We get it, sometimes you need something that’s just for you. That’s why we have created our Italy private tours . Book safe in the knowledge that it will just be your family or friend group traveling around this beautiful country, learning more about the cities and towns, like the intriguing modern history of Palermo.
• Italy group tours: Some of our most popular trips are our Italy group tours . Designed to bring people together with newer travelers in mind, you can explore vineyards, islands, and cobbled streets with like-minded people who will soon become your lifelong friends.
• Italy customized tours: Know exactly what you want but cannot quite find it? Want to combine a ski trip in Bardonecchia with a culinary jaunt around Bologna? We can make it happen. Create a trip to your exact specifications with our Italy tailor-made tours . Simply give our experts a few details and we will make the perfect Italian tour for you.

Activity-based Italy Tours

• Italy culture tours: With Italy being so jam-packed with history, it is no wonder that there are so many Italy culture tours to choose from. Learn as you travel, taking in the culture of the towns and cities around you, all the while admiring the historical sites like the Doge’s Palace in Venice, the Forum in Rome, or Pompeii.
• Italy hiking tours: Want to explore Italy on foot? With the Dolomites, Appian Way, and plenty of gorgeous coastal trails, our Italy hiking tours range in location, duration, and comfort level to give you the flexibility you need. Think of all the pasta you can eat at the end of each day.
• Italy bicycle tours: If you want to cruise around Italy on a two-wheeler, our Italy cycling tours are a great place to start. With different itineraries ranging from mountain trails in the Dolomites, to flatter Roman trails like Sentiero della Bonifica, to a combination of the two, you can be active and explore this beautiful country.
• Italy cruise tours: If you prefer to explore Italy at a more leisurely pace, our Italy cruise tours are just the thing for you. These tours are designed to take all the logistical hard work out of the equation. Sit back as you are dropped at your next outstanding destination, from Venice, to Rome, to Naples and beyond.
• Italy city sightseeing tours: With more UNESCO heritage sites than any other country in the world, there is a reason we have so many Italy city sightseeing tours . Rome alone has dozens of attractions to experience. We will take care of the logistics so that you can focus on your tour.
• Italy food tours: One of the main reasons many of us visit Italy is because of the food. On our Italy food tours , you may be sampling limoncello on the Amalfi Coast, tearing into a traditional pizza in Naples, or going on a gastronomic Balsamic journey in Modena. Bring your appetite and perhaps some baggier clothing.

Popular durations for an Italy trip

Italy tours — Top destinations to visit

• Dive into the culture in Tuscany: Greeted by the Tyrrhenian sea in the west coast, Tuscany is a land of cultural awakening. From superbly crafted fine wine in the vineyards to the incomparable Renaissance art of Florence, a trip to Tuscany will feel like paradise to a culture nut. The region presents one of the most authentic tastes of Italy and is one of the most fascinating and popular tourist destinations in the country.
• Enjoy the beautiful coasts of Puglia: Highlighted by traditional countryside villages and a beautiful coastline, Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot, is an amazing tourist destination. Whether you choose to take a dip in the swimming coves or the clear waters of the Adriatic, explore traditional trulli culture in old villages and cottages, or feast with the locals in the many bars in Piazzas, there is something for everyone in Puglia. Head to the olive groves where you can enjoy plenty of sunshine to cap off your vacation in Puglia .
• Relax on the beach in Sicily: Coastlines and beaches make Sicily a nature lover’s dream. This popular island on the Mediterranean sea is home to some marvelous archeological sites and fine Italian cuisine. But that is not all, the ancient Roman amphitheater and the ruins of the temple of Athena also allow visitors a peek into the country’s history. Add the churches and cathedrals in Palermo, black-sand lava beaches in Aeolian islands and the majestic Mount Etna and you have a perfect Sicilian vacation .
• Follow the hiking trails in Cinque Terre: A landscape covered in beautiful terraced hillsides, Cinque Terre is a popular walking destination. Here, you can enjoy gorgeous views of the colorful villages built on cliffsides while exploring the interconnected hiking trails in the region. A holiday in Cinque Terre can also give visitors a glimpse of the medieval era, as it is home to ancient seaside villages along the Italian Riviera.
• Go skiing in the Dolomites: Home to the Italian Alps, the Dolomites is a hiking and skiing haven for adventure seekers. This is where you will get to familiarize yourself with the Ladin culture and discover a blend between Italian and German cultures. Stay in luxury resorts, visit open-air museums, and dine on delicious cuisine every night. These are some of the reasons why the Dolomites are popular not just in Italy but the whole of Europe.
• Bask in the sun in Amalfi Coast: If you are seeking out sunshine, lemons, and time relaxing on the beach, you are going to want to visit the Amalfi Coast . Famed for its stunning coastlines with accompanying clifftop hiking trails, zingy limoncello, and archeological wonders, such as Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast has something for everyone. From Capri's classy elegance to Naples's winding side streets, to Sorrento's sandy beaches, no two days on the Amalfi Coast are ever the same. Popular with travelers of all ages and from all over the world, there are plenty of reasons why visitors come back here.

Peak Season and Low Season Tours in Italy

• Italy in March
• Italy in April
• Italy in May
• Italy in June
• Italy in July
• Italy in September
• Italy in October
• Italy in November
• Italy in December
• Italy in January
• Italy in February

Popular Italy trip travel guide

If you are planning a trip to Italy, you will want to know about the best time to visit Italy as well as checking out all the available Italy tours. You may also wish to learn more about the top things to do in Italy . Once you are sure about some of the activities you wish to experience in Italy, along with the destinations you want to visit, you may want to consider how many days to stay in Italy . We generally recommend to stay at least 10 days in Italy , but to get the most out of your trip to Italy you can stay 2 weeks in Italy or more.

Next, we recommend you start thinking about the money you can allocate to the trip to know whether you should be looking for a budget tour, a luxury tour, or perhaps a completely customized tour to Italy . If you are in doubt, check all our Italy tours at the top of this page.

Italy is an amazing country to visit, and there may be other key factors that you wish to consider before traveling there. Please check our “ Italy travel guide ” which will give you a lot of relevant information about traveling to Italy.

Tours in Italy - Questions and Answers

Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, UK, and Japan can visit Italy (along with the free-movement zone of Schengen in the EU) for 90 days as tourists without requiring a visa.

While it is true that Italy is not an expensive destination, it is not exactly a budget destination either. Your vacation funds will go much further in Italy than they would in Scandinavia or the UK, with daily budgets of around USD150 per person sufficient for mid-range travelers who do not want to miss out on any of the country’s most important sights. Most banks have ATM machines (called bancomat) with English language options. All you need to do is look for the US or the UK flag. Plus, most machines accept both Visa and Mastercard. Please keep in mind that you will withdraw your cash in euros, with EUR1 slightly more than its USD equivalent.

The best time to visit Italy is between the months of April and June as well as from September to October. The weather on the Italian Peninsula during these months is ideal for going out on sightseeing tours, hiking, and exploring treasures stretching from Palermo to the lagoons of Venice. Traveling to Italy during July and August is avoided by many because of the summer heat and crowds, while the period between November to March sees the fewest visitors in big cities. However, these months coincide with the prime skiing season in the Alps, while southern parts of Italy, such as Sicily, remain relatively warm during this time of year. Find more information here .

It was not too long ago that finding anyone who spoke English in Italy was an ordeal. This is not the case anymore. Most people in the cities have some understanding of the language, although numbers decrease as you move further into the countryside. Therefore, it is better to know a few basic phrases in Italian (per favore means please and grazi means thank you) if you are heading for the country. This will not only make your stay in the country easier but also ensure that you show respect to the people and their culture. 

The duration of your vacation in Italy depends on the ground you want to cover. It is possible to enjoy a city break in Rome that lasts just three days, while one week in Italy will give you the chance to tick the country’s top sights off your bucket list, be it the countryside around Tuscany, the highlights of Florence and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. However, we recommend Italy trips of no less than ten days . This will allow you to take in the country’s iconic landmarks as well as explore off-the-beaten-track destinations , such as the medieval hamlet of Barbarano Romano,  the Dolomites , and Mantua in the Lombardy region.  In two weeks , you can add Sicily to your itinerary. Read our travel article on how many days to spend in Italy .

There is no specific order in which you should cover the destinations in Italy. But many choose to start their Italian sojourn from the capital city Rome , given the number of attractions it has as well as the convenience of transport it offers. The  Tuscan countryside, with its rolling hills sprinkled with olive trees, is a crowd favorite, while Umbria offers similar panoramas but with fewer tourists. A tour in Sicily feels very different from mainland Italy because of its distance from Rome, while Apulia, located in the heel of Italy, and Veneto, outside of Venice, offer some of the most authentic experiences and best regional cuisine.

Traditionally trips to Italy have involved sightseeing in cities such as Naples or Milan. However, the country’s long coastline means there are plenty of sea-based activities to enjoy, from kayaking between the islands of Venice to ferry trips to Capri. Hiking is becoming increasingly popular in Italy’s countryside, given the wealth of ancient footpaths that wind among hills and mountains. A road trip is another option, with the cliffside roads of Cinque Terre a dreamy place to spend a few days driving through. Find our Italy tours and trips here . 

Public transportation in Italy is excellent. High-speed trains connect major cities, traveling at speeds of up to 150 mph, while slower regional trains connect towns with a small population. Even tiny villages have bus routes, although there may only be one or two services per day in either direction. Driving is not for the fainthearted, since Italian drivers can be aggressive and can change lanes or directions without warning. Italians drive on the right-hand side of the road and use their horns frequently.

• Italy budget tours
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• Italy guided tours
• Italy family tour packages
• Italy honeymoon packages
• Italy luxury tours
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• Italy self-guided tours
• Italy small group tours
• Italy solo trips
• Italy tailor-made vacation packages
• Italy tours for senior citizens
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• Italy group tours
• Italy last minute deals
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Popular Destinations

• Amalfi Coast & Campania Tours
• Catania Tours
• Chianti Tours
• Cinque Terre and Liguria Tours
• Florence Tours
• Lucca Tours
• Matera Tours
• Naples Tours
• Palermo Tours
• Puglia Tours
• Salento Tours
• Sardinia Tours
• Sicily Tours
• Siena Tours
• Taormina Tours
• Trentino-South Tyrol Tours
• Tuscany Tours
• Venice Tours

Popular Activities

• Adventure tours
• Art and architecture tours
• Bicycle tours
• City sightseeing tours
• Countryside and village visits tours
• Cruise tours
• Cultural, religious and historic sites tours
• Explorer tours
• Local culture tours
• Museum and gallery visits tours
• Natural landmarks sightseeing tours
• Trekking and Hiking tours
• Walking tours
• Wine tasting tours

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The Best Tour Companies in Italy

Italy is home to incredible food (give me all the gnocchi and wine), rolling green hills, cultivated vineyards, stunning lakes and mountains, a long rich history dating back thousands of years, and a welcoming culture.

It is one of the most dynamic countries in the world and will live up to all the hype you’ve heard. It’s composed of 20 different regions, each with its own unique culture, cuisine, wine, and landscape. Italy is basically a confederation of different regional “countries and cultures.”

Because there’s so much to see and do in Italy (and not everyone has a lot of time), many travelers decide to take tours when they visit Italy.

I’ve visited Italy on my own and with tour companies.

And there are A LOT of tour companies in Italy. (Like way, way, way too many.)

It can be very overwhelming deciding which Italy tour company to pick. I know — I’ve spent hours upon hours researching them all!

To help you plan your trip and really get beneath the surface of this amazing destination, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite tour companies in Italy.

Whether you’re looking for a basic walking tour or a multi-week excursion, these companies are the ones I think offer travelers the best experience at the right price.

Here are the best tour companies in Italy:

1. Walks of Italy

If you’re looking for something a little more in-depth than a free tour, my favorite walking tour company in Italy is Walks. They are one of the largest day tour companies in Italy and offer tours in eight cities across the country.

What makes them so special is that they get access to places other companies don’t, including before- or after-hours visits to some of the most popular sites in Italy (such as an early-access tour of the Sistine Chapel before it opens or a Colosseum at Night Tour , where you’ll see where get to experience the arena after it closes).

They are true experts and I love their tours. They are my favorite tour company in Italy. Most tours last around four hours and start at around 40 EUR per person.

2. Free Tours by Foot

For free walking tours in cities around Italy, check out Free Tours by Foot. They organize tours (or collaborate with companies that run tours) in Rome, Florence, Milan, Sorrento, Naples, and Venice. You’ll be able to get a solid overview of each iconic city thanks to knowledgeable local guides. These free tours are 2-3 hours long, making them a great introduction to each destination. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!

If you prefer to go at your own pace, they also highlight companies that offer self-guided audio tours and guides.

Devour is one of the most highly rated food tour companies in Italy. They’ve been featured in The Guardian, CNN Travel, Forbes, and many other popular publications. In short, they’re a perfect choice for anyone looking to really dig in and learn about Italy’s world-famous food cuisine.

I’ve been on their tours in both Italy and abroad and am never disappointed. The food tours, drink tours, and pasta-making classes are guaranteed to give you an authentic local experience guided by experts who truly know their topics.

They offer tours in Rome, Florence, Bologna, Naples, and Venice, with each tour generally lasting 3-4 hours. If you’re a foodie like me, their tours are a must!

Tickets start at 49 EUR per person and sell out fast, so be sure to book in advance.

4. Divina Cucina Culinary Experiences

Judy is an American expat who has been eating and drinking her way around Italy since the 1980s, and she has crafted some unique experiences for anyone looking to get under Italy’s culinary skin. Her private “Morning at the Market” tours in Florence will give you a nuanced look at Italy’s food culture and history, during which she shares her cooking tips and expertise. Judy also offers weeklong cooking intensives if you’re looking to really step up your Italian cuisine.

5. Travel Italian Style

My friend Cassandra runs this incredible bespoke travel company that creates customized trips to Italy. She’s been working in the tourism industry for well over a decade and has been to every single region of Italy. In short, she knows her stuff and can plan the perfect getaway for you. Vineyard tours, cooking classes, boutique accommodations — you’re guaranteed to experience life as a local with Cassandra’s tours.

If you’re looking for an immaculately curated upscale vacation to Italia, this is the tour company for you. She really knows her stuff!

6. Intrepid Travel

This is my go-to travel company when I’m looking for multi-day or multi-week trips. They employ local guides with incredible insight and appreciation for the communities they take you to, and the groups are never too big. Plus, they only run ethical tours with a small environmental footprint. I’ve gone on some amazing tours with Intrepid over the years, including to Jordan, Morocco, and Madagascar, and have never been disappointed.

They offer a variety of tour options in Italy, from a Best of Italy tour to a Hiking the Dolomites adventure. Tours last 8-15 days, with prices starting around $1,600 EUR per person.

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Italy: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Some of my favorite places to stay are:

• The Yellow (Rome)
• Ostello Bello (Milan)
• Archi Rossi Hostel (Florence)

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Italy? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Italy for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Best Italy tours with departures in 2024 and beyond

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Looking for the best Italy tours scheduled for 2024 and beyond? There is a vast array of options on offer. But, how do you choose the right trip?

The best tours of Italy will show you highlights as well as hidden treasures. And balance sightseeing with free time to explore. They will meet your timing and budget but have extras included to ensure your trip is special. Whether you choose a large operator or boutique tour company, you want to make sure your trip exceeds your expectations.

Here at Untold Italy, we recently launched our very own small group tours of hidden regions of Italy full of all the magical experiences we cherish and talk about on our podcast. If you love food, wine, getting off the beaten path and experiencing true Italian hospitality then we’d love to have you join us on tour.

Summary: Best Italy tours: highlights packages

We reviewed the market and major operators to bring you this breakdown of the best tours of Italy available in the coming months and years. This article includes highlights journeys, itineraries by region and interest, and those suitable for families.

If you want to compare tour prices and itineraries yourself, have a browse of Tourradar and Stride Travel . These sites are where tour operators list their upcoming trips until 2024. You can read reviews by people who have experienced the tour and they often have great deals on early bookings and late departures.

Our pick and reviews of the tours we think offer the best value in terms of inclusions, accommodation, and itineraries are below.

Article contents

Best Highlights of Italy Tours

Most first time visitors to Italy want to see the tried and true highlights – Rome, Venice, and Florence, so you’ll find many tours catering to that wish. Here are some of the top tours on the market and what to expect

Trafalgar’s Best of Italy

Best for: first time visitors to Italy on a moderate budget

This classic and very popular tour of Italy covers all the highlights and contrasts of the country over 13 days. From the historic grandeur of Rome to coastal Sorrento, the lakes, Venice and Florence, this is a great introduction to Italy for first time visitors.

The tour price includes all breakfasts, some evening meals, including a regional dinner and 1 Be My Guest, and complimentary airport transfers. Accommodation is mostly 4* hotels, plus the unique experience of sleeping in a converted Franciscan monastery.  Expect VIP entry to some of the major attractions and detailed briefings of the history and significance of the major sights.

Most passengers who choose Trafalgar are in the 50+ age group and who enjoy cultural activities over fast-paced adventure. Solo travelers are welcome however a supplement may apply.

With plenty of free time built in and the opportunity to choose optional extras, this trip is one that will give you a perfect taste of Italy and have you planning your next visit as soon as you arrive home.

At a glance:

• Major stops: Rome – Sorrento – Venice – Lake Maggiore – Florence – Assisi
• Tour length: 13 days
• Departs: All year
• Group Size: 40 – 45
• Average age: 50+
• Accommodation: 3-4 star hotels
• Travel method: Coach

If you like the look of this itinerary but absolutely must see the Cinque Terre as well, check out Globus tours Italian Treasures with Sorrento

G Adventure’s Ultimate Italy

Best for: Solo female travelers with wanting a small group experience

Join G Adventures on their Ultimate Italy highlights trip for adventure across several regions, taking in some of the most celebrated places in the country. Over 14 days you’ll explore the best of the center and north of Italy from Rome to Venice with stops in Florence, the Cinque Terre, the northern lakes and Venice.

This small group tour will have a maximum of 16 participants so you are guaranteed a more personal experience. Included in the tour price are all transportation, smaller tourist level (2-3 star) hotels, and breakfasts. As with all G Adventures tours, there is plenty of free time to explore and they make it easy to add your interests into the itinerary – some of these come at an additional cost, however.

G Adventures s itineraries attract travelers aged over 30 who are interested in traveling as part of a group but appreciate free time to explore on your own. The company is dedicated to responsible travel and hires local tour leaders with in-depth personal knowledge of each destination. Solo travelers are warmly welcomed however supplements may apply.

• Major stops: Rome – Florence – Lucca – Cinque Terre – Lake Como – Venice
• Tour length: 14 days
• Departs: April to October
• Group Size: 12 – 16
• Average age: 30+
• Accommodation: 2-3 star hotels
• Travel method: Train plus private transportation

Contiki’s Simply Italy  

Best for: Younger travelers (18 – 30) wanting an action-packed itinerary

Contiki’s Simply Italy tour takes you on a whistle-stop tour of all the highlights from Rome to Capri, Pompeii and the Cinque Terre. This 15 day itinerary will give you the perfect taste of Bella Italia and have you planning more adventures in pasta and gelato before you can say That’s Amore!

This large group tour of up to 50 people is bound to be social. Hotels are around 2 star, breakfasts and some meals are included plus 20 activities making the trip a great value option for younger travelers on a budget. Optional activities such as the Burano island cruise with dinner in Venice are reasonably priced and fun.

Contiki is the tour company of choice for younger travelers, so expect a fast-paced itinerary stopping at all the best Instagram-friendly spots, wifi on board your coach, late nights and early starts.

• Major stops: Rome – Florence – Cinque Terre – Milan – Venice – Amalfi Coast
• Tour length: 15 days
• Departs: Year round
• Group Size: around 40
• Average age: 18 – 30
• Accommodation: 1-2 star hotels

Best Small Group Tours of Italy

Exploring Italy beyond the major cities, towns and tourist routes is one of our favorite things to do. Here you discover a slower pace of life, beautiful landscapes and fascinating stories of people who have lived there for generations. Not to mention amazing regional food and wine.

Untold Italy’s small group tours take you to some of our favorite hidden regions of Italy including Sicily, Umbria, Piedmont and Puglia. With only 14 people in each group we’re able to take you on a journey of discovery to the family-run vineyards, olive groves and hilltop towns that you’ve been dreaming of.

These places can be difficult to reach without a car so a group tour means you can relax while we handle the logistics and plan out your days with incredible experiences that it’s difficult to organize on your own. Of course, we all love to explore, so there’s plenty of free time to wander on your own or relax as you prefer.

We think the perfect way to enjoy your time in Italy is to combine a small group experience in a hidden region of Italy with time in the major cities like Rome or Florence where it is easier to explore on your own.

Italy Tours on a Budget

Looking for value on a small budget? These Italy tour packages offer some of the best value trips on the market. With great value inclusions and action-packed itineraries, your dream of visiting Italy is possible on a modest budget.

Costsaver’s Italian Scene

Best for: Value conscious travellers wanting a full highlights of Italy package

Offering a north to south overview of the best Italy has to offer at a wallet-friendly price, Costsaver’s Italian Scene tour is a great choice for those looking for a tour packed with value. Stopping in the iconic cities plus smaller towns like Verona and Pisa, this tour will give you a true taste of the country without breaking the bank.

With a full itinerary covering many of the highlights of Italy, generous inclusions such as full buffet breakfasts and several 3-course dinners, the Italian Scene tour offers lots of value. You can add optional activities or choose to spend your free time at leisure. Popular with travelers aged 40 – 60, you’ll find the tour group social and interested in culture and history.

Costsaver is owned by Trafalgar so you get all the benefits of their itinerary planning and infrastructure at a price well below the tours offered by their parent company. The main point of difference is the location and standard of hotels. Costsaver accommodation is usually a little out of town and will not have the same level of amenities.

• Major stops: Rome – Sorrento – Assisi – Venice – Florence
• Tour length: 10 days
• Group Size: around 50
• Average age: 40 – 60
• Accommodation: 2-3 star hotels outside the city center

Intrepid’s Highlights of Italy  

Best for: The best budget small group tour of Italy

If you want the small group experience with lots of free time built into your itinerary, Intrepid’s Highlights of Italy tour will suit you perfectly. This itinerary is part of Intrepid’s Basix range which delivers great value budget tours without sacrificing experience. You’ll see Venice, Rome, Florence and the stunning villages of the Cinque Terre on this journey with a group of no more than 16 other travelers.

Your tour leader will ensure you are familiar with the places you visit and conduct orientation walking tours. You can then explore on your own or take advantage of the well-priced optional activities offered. Some breakfasts are included and you can expect basic accommodation at 1-2 star hotels or hostels.

Intrepid’s itineraries attract mainly female travelers aged over 30 who are interested in traveling as part of a group but appreciate free time to explore on their own. The company is dedicated to responsible travel and hires local tour leaders with in-depth personal knowledge of each destination. Solo travelers are warmly welcomed however to keep costs down, you will share a room with a person of the same gender.

• Major stops: Venice – Cinque Terre – Florence – Rome
• Tour length: 8 days
• Departs: April to November
• Group Size: No more than 16
• Accommodation: Budget hotels / hostels
• Travel method: Train plus some private transportation

Best Southern Italy tours

If you’re dreaming of a summer vacation and la dolce vita on the Italian coast , head to Southern Italy and explore the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento, Sicily and the legendary isle of Capri.

Trafalgar’s Southern Italy and Sicily

Best for: exploring the magical Sorrento, Capri and Sicily

Southern Italy will capture your heart on this 10 day tour stopping at Pompeii, Sorrento, and towns in Sicily. The heady combination of incredible scenery, hundreds of years of history and of course delicious food and wine is irresistible. Trafalgar’s Southern Italy and Sicily itinerary covers all the highlights of this beautiful part of the world and includes local experiences that you’ll cherish forever.

Your tour price includes all breakfasts, some dinners including 1 Be My Guest experience, and complimentary airport transfers at set departure times. You’ll stay in mostly 4* hotels and enjoy VIP entry and to major attractions. Your tour director will provide detailed briefings of the history and significance of the major sights. Optional excursions include visits to some of the quaint fishing villages of Sicily and a boat cruise around Capri.

Most passengers who choose Trafalgar are in the 50+ age group who enjoy cultural activities over fast-paced adventure. Solo travelers are welcome however a supplement may apply.

This trip covers all the highlights of Southern Italy and uncovers hidden gems you’ll be talking about for years to come.

• Major stops: Rome – Sorrento – Taormina – Palermo
• Accommodation: 4 star hotels

Highly recommended

Interested in visiting the up-and-coming Puglia region? Insight’s Country roads of Southern Italy & Sicily trip includes visits to all the highlights of Southern Italy including Alberobello, Matera, Sicily, the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and the famed isle of Capri!

Best Family Tours of Italy

Want to take your children to Italy but want the convenience of a tour with assistance on hand when you need it? These tours are specifically designed with families in mind. You can expect fun activities aimed at engaging your kids in the culture and beauty of the Italian cities and countryside. Relax and enjoy your travels as the logistics and bookings are taken care of.

Trafalgar’s Gladiators, Gondolas and Gold family tour of Italy

Best for: Families wanting a first fun taste of Italy

Make history and culture come alive for your family on this fun tour of Italy’s major cities with Trafalgar. This well-thought-out itinerary has inclusions to keep the whole family entertained. From pizza making in Rome to taking photos with the famous Leaning Tower in Pisa, this will be a trip to remember.

Your tour price includes hot breakfasts, several dinners including 1 Be My Guest, and complimentary airport transfers. Accommodation is mostly 4 star hotels. This itinerary includes plenty of fun experiences however it is designed so you can set your own pace too. Perhaps some members of your group would like to explore the fountains of Rome while others take a nap. It’s up to you.

Trafalgar have designed an itinerary that works for the whole family with plenty of free time built in. The only question is, will your kid’s favorite moment be their ride on a gondola down Venice’s Grand Canal or the gladiator school in Rome?

• Major stops: Rome – Florence – Venice
• Departs: May to September

Intrepid’s Northern Italy Family Holiday  

Best for: Exploring Venice to Rome as a family with like minded travelers

Intrepid’s family tour of Northern Italy is full of adventure and fun experiences for the whole family. Starting in Venice and visiting the Cinque Terre and Pisa before finishing in Rome, this tour gives the perfect taste of Italy. You’ll wonder at the beauty of the Venetian canals, make pesto in Liguria, and go on an art safari in Rome!

Your group of no more than 16 other travelers is led by an expert guide who knows how to keep the kids entertained. Intrepid have also included lots of exciting activities along the way such as mask-making in Venice and gladiator school in Rome. Of course, there will be plenty of time for gelato stops at each destination.

Breakfasts are included on most days as well as some dinners. You can take advantage of well-priced optional extras such as a Cinque Terre cruise. Expect 3 – 4 star hotels and train transportation.

Intrepid’s itineraries are well thought out and are ideal for those wanting a guided experience but appreciate free time to explore on your own. Responsible travel is an important value held by Intrepid. They hire local tour leaders with in-depth personal knowledge of each destination, use mainly public transportation, and support local businesses.

• Major stops: Venice – Cinque Terre – Pisa – Rome
• Departs: June to September
• Average age: kids from 5 – 18 years of age plus accompanying adults
• Accommodation: 3 – 4 star hotels

Last Minute Trips to Italy

Did the stars align and you suddenly find yourself with time to spare for a trip to Italy? If you’re thinking of joining a tour we recommend browsing Tourradar and Stride Travel . These sites are marketplaces for multi-day tours where you can find great last-minute bargains as the tour companies strive to fill their last remaining seats.

They are authorized tour resellers with direct relationships with the tour companies and strive to assist clients to make the best choice of tour for their travel style.

Tourradar has great deals on tours by Trafalgar, Globus, Intrepid, and many other smaller tour companies. You can access their online travel experts dedicated to finding a tour that suits your timing, budget and interests, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – click here to browse tours of Italy on Tourradar

Stride Travel has the best deals for Perillo tours as well as some of the most popular luxury tours of Italy including Abercrombie and Kent and Tauck Tours. You can compare the inclusions, prices and itineraries of different tour companies and enlist the services of their travel experts to find the right tour for you – click here to browse Italy tours on Stride

5 Reasons to Choose a Guided Tour of Italy

• Get your bearings and build confidence for traveling on your own – this is a great approach for first-time visitors to Italy who can use their tour as a launchpad for further adventures
• See many sights within a short timeframe without worrying about logistics or finding and booking your hotels – guided tours of Italy have this all planned out so you can relax and enjoy your vacation
• Access in-depth knowledge and local experiences – your tour guides are there to make sure you enjoy the best Italy has to offer. Many companies now add special local elements such as farm dinners and special stays to ensure your tour is packed with special memories
• Meet like-minded travelers and form lasting friendships – tours are a great way to expand your social circle and meet people from all over the world
• Manage your costs – often if you tried to do all the things included in the tour on your own, you would find the costs are much higher

How to Choose your Italy Tour

Firstly, decide when you want to go and how long to stay in Italy. Deciding when to go to Italy is often a challenge so read our guide to the best time to visit Italy to help you make your plans. It includes the best months for sightseeing and visiting the beaches and popular cities. Spoiler alert – we like late May and early October!

The length of your trip is also a consideration. Most tours run for between 7 and 10 days. Don’t forget to factor in transit time to and from your home country into your plans. You might also like to add a few days on your own to explore a little at your leisure.

Next, determine your budget. Most tours include land transportation only (not flights). So you’ll need to add the cost of your flights to Italy into your budget.

Click to search flight deals on skyscanner

As a general rule, large tour groups generally involving travel by bus are the most cost-effective. Smaller groups will attract higher prices but you will get more personalized service. Private and customized tours attract the highest rates.

Most importantly, know your travel style and how much assistance you want from a tour guide. There are fully guided tours and independent package tours for Italy to suit your preferences.

Things to look for

• early morning starts and packed agendas – are you happy to be starting your days at 07:30 am or do you prefer a more relaxed pace with lots of time to explore on your own
• hotel standard – are you prepared to save some money on hotels or do you like some luxuries
• hotel location – if you’re hoping to explore, a hotel out of town may not be a great option
• group meals or free time to organize your own dinners
• inclusions vs optional extras – would you like to choose additional activities or be led the entire way – there are advantages to both approaches

Best sites to look for deals

Keep an eye on the tour company sites and sign up for their news. Offers are released regularly throughout the year. If you are trying to decide between a few tour companies and itineraries you can compare tour prices and trips on Tourradar  and Stride Travel . These sites have trip listings for departures up to 2024. You can read reviews by people who have experienced the tour and they often have great deals on early bookings and late departures.

Best Italy Tour Companies Reviewed

When you’re planning the trip of a lifetime, make sure you choose a reputable company for your tour of Italy. Here are some of the best and most trusted tour operators:

Trafalgar – with over 70 years of experience worldwide, Trafalgar is a popular choice for good reason. The company is expert at designing itineraries that visit the highlights of Italy in the most efficient way in terms of cost and covering a lot of ground. The company makes sure that you can enjoy local experiences as well as sightseeing.  For example, you can take advantage of their Be My Guest program, and dine with local families in their homes. Expect group sizes of around 40-45 and travel by coach.

Insight Vacations   – with a more leisurely pace and clientele in the 60-70 age bracket, Insight Vacations are more upmarket than Trafalgar. Hotels are 4.5* and their buses have been designed to allow much more legroom than on standard coaches.

Intrepid – the world’s largest small group tour company, Intrepid are one of our favorite providers. With group sizes averaging only 10 people, you can expect more personalized service and the ability to get off the beaten path. Intrepid have been recognized for their commitment to responsible travel and offer inclusive tours for all ages. They have over 50 itineraries for Italy with three different tour styles – Basic, Standard and Comfort.

Monograms – if you want to travel independently and plan your own spare time but want a set basic itinerary then Monograms is for you. They provide ground transportation, hotels and a brief tour at each place you visit. This unique service also includes a brief city tour and destination concierge who can help with dinner suggestions and other on-the-ground questions. With a variety of packages throughout Italy, this is a great solution if you’re finding researching your own trip overwhelming.

Contiki – aimed at the youth market aged between 18-35, Contiki tours generally attract under 30s making their first trip abroad without their parents. Fast-paced and intense with early starts and late nights, these trips are definitely made with a young party crowd in mind. Contiki offers a great budget alternative to DIY travel but if partying is not part of your travel style then think twice about joining a Contiki tour.

Rick Steves – if you’re a fan of America’s favorite Europhile, his company also offers group tours of Italy. With mid-sized tour groups of fewer than 30 travelers, they are a more intimate experience than the larger group tours. The price range reflects this midpoint. People traveling on these tours are usually American, aged 50+ and are interested in history and culture.

Onwards Through Italy

We hope you have found a tour of Italy to suit your travel style, timing, and budget. If you can spare a few extra days, why not add some additional time to the end of your trip to explore at your leisure? Your tour will give you the confidence to discover treasures of your own. If you’re looking for something more bespoke, there are many reasons to consider a private tour of Italy . Whatever you decide, Italy is waiting.

Buon viaggio!

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“Uffizi Gallery in Florence is a world class museum with an incredible renaissance art collection. Enjoy a guided tour with a Local Specialist to make the experience more memorable, especially when in front of Botticelli’s stunning ‘Birth of Venus’ painting”

Pino, Travel Director

See Michelangelo's frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel

One of the most important structures of the Catholic faith, the Vatican City’s Sistine Chapel is a must-see on a tour of Italy. Though the chapel walls have witnessed centuries of worship, it’s the renaissance ceiling paintings of Michelangelo that will leave you in awe.

Visit the glamorous Isle of Capri

Enjoy the classic Italian summer in Italy’s picture-perfect Gulf of Naples. Famed for its crystal grottos, dramatic coastlines and endless glamour, our trips to Italy are complete with a day of freedom spent under a striped umbrella, watching sailboats pass by.

Cruise your way through Venice

The charm found in the canals of Venice is nothing short of irresistible. Admire gothic palaces and postcard bridges whilst adrift in a gondola, gaining an understanding of life in a city that floats. Exploring a city by foot will never be the same after a trip to Venice.

Journey to the well-preserved ruins of Pompeii

An unfathomable history lesson is found in the archaeological ruins of Pompeii. Buried and preserved by the ash of a volcano eruption in the year 79, in this Italian town you will discover the progressive life of early Roman times as you walk within the parameters of an open-air time capsule of life on Earth.

Go shopping in Italy's fashion capital Milan

Armani, Gucci, Prada and Versace. These are some of the prestigious fashion brands that call the Italian city of Milan home. In between yearning through boutiques and department stores, stop to sample the city’s delicacies like breaded veal cutlet and ossobuco.

Our top 5 things to do in Italy

It's the moments of quiet stillness that take your breath away on a Trafalgar tour through Italy. Sitting in the calm halls of the Vatican. Floating on the canals of Venice. Standing beside the ruins of Pompeii.

Uffizi Gallery

The Tuscan capital is home to Uffizi Gallery, where the brushworks of art’s true masters are found. Names like Raffaello, Leonardo, and Michelangelo dress Uffizi’s grand pink walls, whilst internal courtyards leading to the Arno River will show you the building’s architectural brilliance.

Vatican Museums

A collection of Christian artwork that spans centuries and stirs the soul is found in Rome’s Vatican Museums. From the intricate ceiling by Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel to the detailed Pope portraits from the 16th century to today, you will be lost for words once inside this blessed museum complex.

Doge's Palace

Home to the leader of Venice from its opening in 1340, Doge’s Palace summarizes the sparkle of this city. An opulent example of Venetian Gothic architecture and home to numerous historical works, this museum is a must when you visit Venice.

Best museums in Italy

The epicenter of the Catholic faith and the birthplace of art’s most renowned masters. Our guided tours of Italy will take you to the many museums found here, whether in the Sistine Chapel, by the canals of Venice or in the grand galleries of Tuscany.

The authentic carbonara experience will take place in Rome, covered in salty Pecorino Romano cheese. A simple dish inspiring heart-warming meal times, this pasta will connect you with Italy’s rich culinary customs - an impressive evolution from its supposed heritage as a coal-miner’s meal.

Pollo alla Cacciatora

Literally translating to ‘hunter’ in Italian, cacciatore offers an appreciation for Italy’s meals of days gone by. Typically a preparation of rabbit or chicken, it’s the simmering tomato stew that makes this dish so mouthwatering. Satisfy a genuine hunger and consume with hand-ripped bread.

Italy tours are best served with an oversized slice of tiramisu. Cementing this country's obsession with espresso, this cake of layered biscuits soaked in coffee is the perfect after hours pick-me-up before an evening stroll through the charming streets.

Best food in Italy

A date with Italian food will likely start and end with a slice of pizza. But it’s the menu items that we share with you in between that will take your appreciation to new heights; think cacciatore and Carbonara with a slice of tiramisu in between.

What to pack for Italy

A classic linen outfit

The Italians are famous for their equal parts glamorous and effortless dress sense. Look the part with a few ensembles featuring classic linens in navy and white.

A blank journal

With the wealth of inspiration tucked into every corner of Italy, you might find yourself compelled to write down notes or memories. At the very least to remember the traditional Italian recipes you learn.

With such a large expanse of space to explore, on some days, long journeys are unavoidable. The scenery will provide plenty of visual entertainment, while headphones can be used to listen to some local music or enjoy podcasts about Italian history, culture and politics when you're not enjoying the storytelling from your Travel Director.

A small blanket

When exploring the soul-stirring setting of Tuscany, a picnic may call. Come prepared with a small blanket to cover in wine and cheese.

Under the Tuscan Sun by Frances Mayes

A classic memoir that brought the romance of Tuscany to the world, there’s no better time to read this book than when venturing through the country yourself.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and reusable toiletry bottles.

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Welcome to tuscanteam: your premier tour operator company in italy.

At Tuscanteam, we take pride in being more than just tour operators; we’re your ultimate gateway to Italy’s cultural tapestry, scenic wonders, and unparalleled experiences. As leading tour operators in Italy, we specialize in curating bespoke journeys, ensuring every moment in Italy is enriched with authenticity and wonder.

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Our team of seasoned tour operators stands at the forefront of providing immersive experiences across Italy’s diverse regions. With a deep-rooted passion for this enchanting country, we bring forth a wealth of local knowledge, allowing us to showcase Italy in ways that transcend the ordinary.

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At Tuscanteam, we understand that each traveler seeks a unique adventure. As a travel destination management company , we specialize in crafting customized itineraries that cater to your distinct preferences, ensuring that your journey through Italy resonates with your personal passions, whether it’s art, history, gastronomy, or nature.

Unraveling Italy’s Diversity: Our Offerings as Tour Operators:

Cultural Immersion: Delve into Italy’s rich heritage through our meticulously curated cultural tours. Explore historic landmarks, museums, and engage in enlightening experiences that reveal the depth of Italy’s cultural legacy.

Gastronomic Delights: Indulge your senses in Italy’s culinary wonders. Our gastronomic tours offer an authentic taste of Italian cuisine, from local markets to exquisite dining experiences, accompanied by wine tastings and cooking classes .

Natural Marvels: Embark on nature-centric adventures across Italy’s breathtaking landscapes. Our nature tours invite you to discover the stunning beauty of Italy’s countryside, coastlines, and picturesque vistas through hiking, biking, and leisurely explorations.

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Whether you envision strolling through historic streets, being captivated by artistic masterpieces, or savoring Italy’s natural wonders, Tuscanteam’s expert tour operators in Italy are ready to transform your dreams into an unforgettable reality.

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ACT Travel - Incoming Italy

ACT Travel Incoming offers an extensive ground handling service all over Italy for groups and FIT’s, to suit all budgets, needs and tastes.

Personalized programmes arranged with a wide range of services : accommodation (from hostels to 5-star hotels), meals, transportation (bus, boat, train, flight, car, bike), sight-seeings & excursions, guided tours, museums & sites (reservation & tickets), attractions, study courses, educational and experiential visits.

All tours can be customized to hit different targets & interests : student & youth groups, adults groups, fashion & design, wine & food, movie & theatre, music (performing and non-performing groups), pilgrimages, meetings and incentives, special events.

Thematic tours can be combined with the visit of the classic Italian key-sites in the most popular destinations (Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan, Pompei & the Bay of Naples, Sicily, Turin and more).

FIT travellers can be assured to get the best value for price by choosing accommodation, private transfers and selected activities among our proposals for the main Italian cities.

WHAT WE DO FOR GROUPS

To discover Italian masterpieces by focusing on Art, History and Archeology throughout the Italian destinations.

Combining Culture & Italian food & wine with the possibility to discover the famous Italian productions and meet local producer.

Italian language in Florence and Rome, cooking classes in many regions, decoration of masks in Venice, Gladiator course in Rome.

A combination of classic tours with visit to Italian fashion/design productions & traditional handicraft.

Performing and non-performing groups; choirs, orchestras, bands, schools of dance; discover the Italian Opera.

Prayer groups, family reunions, youth & senior groups; accommodation available in religious properties.

Classics tours in combination with sports activities or sports events (golf, swimming, soccer, beach-volley, etc).

Locations and services for meetings, conferences, product launches, celebrations, openings, corporate events, and more.

The team of specialized travel professionals provides tailor made itineraries planned with great attention to details, according to target and goal of each client. If you would like us to plan a custom tour for your group , simply fill the form.

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Tel. 06 86983783 / e-mail [email protected] ACT Travel S.r.l. – Piazza Dante, 7 – 03047 San Giorgio a Liri (FR) | C.F e P.IVA 11125531001 Capitale sociale Euro 10.000,00 | Registro Imprese Frosinone 22/03/2018 n°10380820968 | Num R.E.A.: FR-193920

Informazioni utili sulla Cambogia

Le informazioni utili sulla Cambogia iniziano dal clima, di tipo tropicale-monsonico. La stagione migliore per effettuare un viaggio in Cambogia, coincidente con il periodo maggiormente scelto dai viaggiatori per un viaggio, va da novembre a marzo . Nei mesi di luglio e agosto il tasso di umidità non è indifferente e potrebbe capitare di imbattersi in piogge anche insistenti ma il paesaggio ne beneficia alla grande: si possono infatti ammirare splendidi paesaggi dalla colorazione verde smeraldo.

FUSO ORARIO

+6 ore rispetto all’Italia (+5 ore quando in Italia vige l’ora legale).

La moneta usata nel Paese è il Riel Cambogiano . Attualmente un euro equivale a circa 4,70 Riel.

Per contattare la Cambogia dall’Italia è necessario anteporre al numero di telefono il prefisso 00855 .

Necessario passaporto con validità residua di almeno sei mesi dalla data d’accesso nel Paese e visto di ingresso.

FILM e LIBRI

Per ammirare la Cambogia sullo schermo consigliamo di vedere Apocalypse Now , il capolavoro di Francis Ford Coppola del 1979, e Urla del Silenzio , il più importante film sul periodo tragico dei Khmer Rossi. In biblioteca, invece, consigliamo “ Un pellegrino ad Angkor ”, ambientato all’inizio del 1900 nei luoghi d’infanzia dell’autore, Pierre Loti.

I frutti tropicali non mancano e infatti durante un viaggio in Cambogia con un taglio “esperienziale” se ne consiglia sempre un gustoso assaggio! I Mongkut e il sao mao sono tra i più amati dai forestieri. Il Prahoc , la pasta di pesce fermentata, costituisce uno degli elementi base della cucina Khmer: i cuochi si sbizzarriscono spesso utilizzando radici, erbe e tuberi in abbinamento. L’immancabile riso , infine, presente su tutte le tavole cambogiane, è l’alimento principale, tant’è che in lingua Khmer “mangiare” si dice nyam bai – letteralmente “mangiare riso”.

Informazioni utili sul Marocco

Le informazioni utili sul Marocco iniziano dal clima.  Il periodo migliore per visitare il Marocco varia a seconda della zona : aprile-maggio e settembre-ottobre, sono ideali per la parte settentrionale. Le città imperiali dell’entroterra come Marrakech e Fés sono meglio visitabili tra marzo e aprile o tra ottobre e novembre.

La zona a sud, invece, è consigliabile durante l’inverno visto che il clima desertico nelle altre stagioni diventa impegnativo.

-1 ora rispetto  all’Italia  (-2 ore in Italia vige l’ora legale).

La moneta utilizzata nel Paese è il Dirham marocchino . Attualmente un euro equivale a circa 10,90 Dirham.

Per contattare il Marocco dall’Italia è necessario anteporre al numero di telefono il prefisso 00212 più  il prefisso della località senza lo zero.

Necessario passaporto con validità residua di almeno sei mesi dalla data d’ingresso nel Paese. Viene consentito l’ingresso senza visto per soggiorni turistici di una durata massima di tre mesi.

Il Paese è stata ed è tutt’oggi una splendida location cinematografica in grado di accogliere attori sia di pellicole “Blockbuster”, come Troy e Sahara , sia di capolavori come  “ L ‘ uomo che sapeva troppo ” di Alfred Hitchcock e “ Lawrence d’Arabia ” di David Lean.

Tra i film sul Marocco, invece, ricordiamo “ Mille Mesi “, epica storia famigliare premiata a Cannes nel 2003.

In libreria vale la pena di leggere “ Marocco, romanzo ” dove Tahar Ben Jelloun racconta l’anima più autentica del Paese.

Da provare:

• la B’stilla , pasticcio dolce-salato di pasta a strati ripiena di piccione o pollo con mandorle e cannella;
• il Couscous , piatto centrale di ogni pasto;
• il Tajine , stufato cotto lentamente nella iconica pentola conica di terracotta. Quello con manzo con prugne e mandorle è uno dei migliori;
• il Tè alla menta , qui non servono spiegazioni!

Informazioni utili sull’Andalusia

La regione è visitabile in ogni periodo dell’anno . La primavera porta con sé un clima mite e molte festività, tra cui la Semana Santa (periodo di grande affollamento), la Feria de Abril e diverse fiere locali in altre città. Inizia in primavera anche la stagione delle corride.

L’estate, molto calda nelle regioni interne, è il momento migliore per rilassarsi al mare sul lunghissimo litorale. L’autunno è ideale per visitare le città e per fare escursioni in località alternative. L’inverno è la stagione migliore per gli appassionati di sci , infatti sui pendii della Sierra Nevada si può sciare!

In tutta la penisola iberica vige l’ora presente in Italia.

La moneta usata in Spagna è l’ Euro .

Per contattare la Spagna dall’Italia è necessario anteporre al numero di telefono il prefisso 0034 .

Per entrare  in Spagna è necessario possedere il Passaporto o la carta d’identità valida per l’espatrio (entrambi in corso di validità).

Il deserto al centro della regione di Almerìa è stato utilizzato come set cinematografico per diverse pellicole western dirette da Sergio Leone.

In libreria ci sono due racconti di Chris Stewart, ex batterista dei Genesis (“ Una casa tra i limoni ” e “ Un pappagallo sull’albero del pepe “) e un bellissimo libro di Clara Sànchez, “ Il profumo delle foglie di limone “.

La cucina dell’Andalusia si divide tra quella costiera e quella dell’entroterra. La cucina della costa si basa soprattutto sul pesce e sui frutti di mare, il più noto tra i piatti e il pescaito frito (l pesce ha una fondamentale importanza nella dieta andalusa).

Nelle aree interne si servono piatti a base di stufato di cacciagione, maiale, agnello e pollo, nonché prosciutto e salsicce. Verdura insalate sono sublimi così come il piatto tipico dell’andalusia, il gazpacho , preparato con pomodori e peperoni.

Informazioni utili sull’Islanda

A meno che non si voglia ammirare l’aurora borale oppure visitare l’isola sotto la neve (in questi casi ovviamente si dovrebbe partire nei mesi invernali), la stagione migliore per visitare l’Islanda va da giugno a settembre .

In giugno e in settembre, però, alcune pista dell’entroterra potrebbero essere non ancora aperte o già chiuse.

Il mese migliore in assoluto è luglio , dove la notte è pressochè inesistente!

L’ora in Islanda è pari a quella del meridiano di Greenwich (GMT), quindi  -1 ora rispetto all’Italia.  -2 ore quando in Italia è in vigore l’ora legale.

La moneta usata in Islanda è la Corona islandese . Attualmente un euro equivale a circa 134 corone .

Per contattare l’Islanda dall’Italia è necessario anteporre al numero di telefono il prefisso 00354 .

Per accedere al Paese sono necessari il passaporto o la carta d’identità valida per l’espatrio (per entrambi validità per tutto il periodo di permanenza).

Una delle produzioni cinematografiche più importanti d’Islanda è stata Thor , nel 2013. Altre scene in Batman Begins (ghiacciaio Vatnajökull), Prometheus (di Ridley Scott) e nel Trono di Spade .

Molto vasta la letteratura antica , con diverse saghe edite da Iperborea come “ Oddr l’Arciere “, “ Hrafnkell ” oppure “ Edda “, edito da Tea e una pietra miliare della letteratura medievale islandese e nordica.

Come opere contemporanee citiamo i romanzi polizieschi di Arnaldur Indridason e “ Gente Indipendente “, la storia di una sorta di Don Chisciotte scandinavo.

Per assaporare le peculiarità locali non si possono perdere i seguenti piatti:

• lo skyr , una sorta di crema di formaggio molto densa da gustare al naturale oppure con la frutta, sazia immediatamente;
• l’ hàkarl , una pinna di squalo fatta stagionare sotto terra per parecchi mesi. Il gusto è un pò strano (simile a quello di un formaggio molto forte) ma si scaccia rapidamente con un sorso di brennivìn ;
• l’ hardfiskur , pesce essiccato da mangiare con il burro, gli islandesi ne vanno pazzi;
• il pane nero, chiamato rùgbraud , che ricorda vagamente il gusto della liquirizia.

Informazioni utili sulla Thailandia

Le informazioni utili sulla Thailandia iniziano dal clima, caratterizzato da 3 Stagioni: quella delle piogge , da giugno a ottobre, quella fresca , da novembre a febbraio, e quella calda , da marzo a maggio. La stagione fresca è il periodo più gradevole , dove le giornate sono più luminose e limpide, e le temperature possono raggiungere anche i 30 gradi a metà giornata. Il periodo migliore per visitare la Thailandia è proprio questo, che, oltre a temperature più sopportabili e meno pioggia, offre la possibilità di ammirare bellissime cascate al colmo della loro portata e splendide piante in piena fioritura.

La Thailadia si trova 6 ore in avanti rispetto all’Italia (5 ore quando in Italia vige l’ora legale).

La moneta usata nel Paese è il Baht thailandese . Attualmente un euro equivale a circa 37,80 Baht.

Per contattare la Thailandia dall’Italia è necessario anteporre al numero di telefono il prefisso 0066 .

Necessario   il passaporto per l’ingresso nel Paese con validità residua di almeno sei mesi al momento dell’arrivo e almeno due pagine libere per l’apposizione del visto (non necessario per soggiorni turistici inferiori ai trenta giorni, in questo caso viene apposto un timbro all’arrivo). I viaggiatori sono obbligati per legge a portare sempre con sé il proprio passaporto originale.

Per ammirare la Thailandia sullo schermo consigliamo “ The Beach ” con Leonardo di Caprio, la divertente commedia “ Che pasticcio, Bridget Jones! “, ma soprattutto “Il Cacciatore ” di Michael Cimino, vincitore di ben 5 premi Oscar.

In biblioteca, invece, consigliamo “ La terra dei monsoni “, che descrive le lotte della zona nord-est del Paese contro la natura e la civiltà, e “Racconti thailandesi ” di Pira Sudham.

Ecco una selezione di piatti tipici della cucina thai:

• il Som Tum , insalata con papaya, arachidi e gamberetti. Si può mangiare anche con lo sticky rice , riso cotto al vapore usato come sostituto del pane;
• il Padthai , piatto a base di noodle cucinato con un mix di verdure, carne o pesce;
•  il Khao Pad , riso fritto, che si cucina friggendo il riso precotto al vapore insieme a verdure, carne o pesce;
• il Tom Kah Ka i, piatto agro-dolce preparato con erbe, limone, funghi, pollo e latte di cocco;
• il Tom Yum Kung , zuppa a base di gamberi dal sapore forte e salato che profuma di limone ed è preparata con erbe e frutti di mare.

Informazioni utili sul Portogallo

Le informazioni utili sul Portogallo iniziano dal clima,  influenzato dalle correnti marine oceaniche  che rendono miti le temperature sulla costa in inverno mentre le estati sono calde ma non afose. Nelle zone interne gli inverni sono più freddi (raramente le temperature scendono scendono sotto zero) e le estati sono molto calde.

Il  periodo ideale per visitare il Portogallo va da aprile ad ottobre, in particolar modo maggio-giugno e settembre-novembre sono i periodi più indicati perché le temperature sono piacevoli e non fa né troppo caldo né troppo freddo.

Il Portogallo è un’ora in anticipo rispetto all’Italia.

La moneta usata in Portogallo è l’ Euro .

Per contattare il Portogallo dall’Italia è necessario anteporre al numero di telefono il prefisso 00351 .

Per entrare nel Paese è necessario possedere il Passaporto o la carta d’identità valida per l’espatrio (entrambi in corso di validità).

Sullo schermo, prima di partire per un viaggio in Portogallo, consigliamo di vedere “ Lisbon Story “, dichiarazione d’amore alla città firmata Wim Wanders, “ Viaggio all’inizio del mondo “, di Manoel De Oliveira, e “ Capitani d’aprile “, che tratta della rivoluzione dei garofani del 1974.

In libreria consigliamo:

• “ Lo sguardo di Od “, selezionato per l’Edward Stanford Travel Writing Award nel 2016;
• “ Storia dell’assedio di Lisbona ” dell’indimenticabile  Jose Saramago ;
• “ Il libro dell’inquietudin e” di Fernando Pessoa, il più grande poeta portoghese.

Le seguenti informazioni utili sul Portogallo vi torneranno utili per assaporare alcune prelibatezze tipiche:

• i pastéis de nata , pasticcini di pasta sfoglia con crema;
• il bacalhau  (baccalà) alla griglia o alla brace oppure provate il  bacalhau a brás (baccalà fritto con patate fritte, uova strapazzate, prezzemolo e olive nere);
• la  caldeirada ,  zuppa di pesce  o  frutti di mare  preparata con pomodori, cipolle, peperoni e patate;
• la ginjinha,  liquore prodotto tramite l’infusione delle amarene.

Informazioni utili sulla Giordania

La primavera (marzo-maggio) è un periodo meraviglioso per visitare il Paese , il clima è ideale e la campagna è punteggiata di fiori selvatici.

L’altro periodo più adatto a visitare la Giordania è l ‘autunno (settembre-novembre) viste le temperature più fresche dopo le calure estive (le acque del Mar Morto e del Mar Rosso sono davvero gradevoli).

L’ora in Giordania è +1 rispetto  all’Italia .

La moneta utilizzata nel Paese è il Dinaro giordano . Attualmente un euro equivale a circa 0,80 Dinari.

Per contattare la Giordania dall’Italia è necessario anteporre al numero di telefono il prefisso 00962.

Al momento dell’ingresso in Giordania si deve presentare il passaporto il quale deve avere una validità residua di almeno sei mesi al momento dell’ingresso nel Paese. Il visto (costo di 40 Dinari giordani) si può ottenere presso gli uffici diplomatico/consolari giordani presenti in Italia, direttamente all’aeroporto di arrivo (pagamento in valuta locale), presso le frontiere terrestri ad eccezione di quella di King Hussein Bridge/Allenby Bridge e all’arrivo in traghetto dall’Egitto.

Sono esenti dal pagamento del costo del visto i titolari del “Jordan Pass”.

LIBRI e FILM

Come informazioni utili sulla Giordania, è bene documentarsi su film e libri da guardare e leggere prima di partire.

In primo luogo non può mancare  “Lawrence d’Arabia”  di David Lean. Si possono scoprire i paesaggi del Wadi Rum, il castello di Azraq e Aqaba. E poi, molto amato, “ Indiana Jones e l’Ultima Crociata” , di Steven Spielberg nel quale Harrison Ford entra nel Khazneh durante la scena finale.

In libreria, per conoscere una cultura lontana dalla nostra, vale la pena leggere “ Due anni nel deserto del Ramm “, nel quale Flavia Tesio Romero, nata in Giordania dove ha vissuto per molti anni, si trova a stretto contatto con i beduini del deserto insieme al padre, un medico italiano.

Per gli amanti dei gialli, infine, segnaliamo che  Agatha Christie vi ha ambientato due romanzi:  “La Perla di gran prezzo” e “Appuntamento con la morte”.

• il ful madamas , purea di fave con peperoncino e olio d’oliva servita con pane arabo non lievitato, formaggio fresco, panna acida e zatar (timo e erbe aromatiche);
• il maqlubbeh , riso al vapore con cardamomo, uva sultanina e varie verdure;
• il mensaf , piatto beduino con agnello, riso, pinoli e yogurt.

Informazioni utili sulla Norvegia

Il periodo migliore per visitare il Paese va da maggio a settembre .

La tarda primavera è un ottimo periodo per la lunghezza delle giornate e il poco numero di visitatori nei siti di interesse turistico e negli hotel.

Durante l’estate c’è il fenomeno del sole di mezzanotte , specialmente a nord del Circolo Polare Artico. A Capo Nord (Nordkapp) il sole non tramonta mai dal 13 maggio al 29 luglio.

Se siete appassionati di sport invernali o volete assistere all’ aurora boreale , allora il vostro periodo migliore è l’inverno polare!

La Norvegia ha lo stesso fuso orario dell’Italia , pertanto non c’è differenza. L’ora legale è come in Italia.

La moneta usata in Norvegia è la Corona norvegese . Attualmente un euro equivale a circa 9,50 corone .

Per contattare l’Islanda dall’Italia è necessario anteporre al numero di telefono il prefisso 0047 .

La Norvegia non fa parte dell’UE ma dal 2001 è inclusa nei Paesi dell’area Schengen. Sono accettati il passaporto o la carta d’identità valida per l’espatrio (validità per tutto il periodo di permanenza nel Paese).

Delle produzioni cinematografiche norvegesi vale la pena citare “ Nord “, road movie tra le nevi della Norvegia e “ Kon-Tiki “, che ricalca la storia dell’esploratore norvegese Thor Heyerdahl nella spedizione nel 1947 attraverso l’Oceano Pacifico.

In libreria, consigliamo:

• “ Il libro del mare ” di Morten A. Strøksnes. edito da Iperborea;
• “ Fame “, del premio Nobel  Knut Hamsun :
• “ Il mondo di Sofia “,  romanzo filosofico adatto a tutti.
• l’ Aquavit , il distillato nazionale a base di patate e cumino è un assaggio imperdibile della cultura norvegese;
• la renna arrosto , ovviamente non per i vegetariani, è un piatto da non perdere;
• il salmone , una delle peculiarità gastronomiche del Nord;

Se volete cimentarvi in qualcosa di veramente diverso dalla nostra cucina, provate la lingua di merluzzo o la bistecca di balena !

Informazioni utili sulla Turchia

Il periodo migliore per visitare il Paese è quello primaverile (da aprile a giugno) e quello autunnale (da settembre a novembre).

Per le zone orientali della Turchia, invece, sono più indicati i mesi estivi , durante l’inverno alcune strade potrebbero essere bloccate dalla neve.

L’ora in Turchia è +1 rispetto  all’Italia in estate e +2 in inverno .

La moneta utilizzata in Turchia è la  Lira turca . Attualmente un euro equivale a circa 6,50 Lire.

Per contattare la Turchia dall’Italia è necessario anteporre al numero di telefono il prefisso 0090.

L’ingresso in Turchia per motivi turistici, senza visto, è consentito per un periodo massimo di 90 giorni.

Si può entrare nel Paese con solo la carta d’identità valida per l’espatrio, perfettamente integra e con una validità minima di 5 mesi.

Tra i film, non può mancare “ Il Bagno Turco – Hamam ” di Ferzan Özpetek, del 1997, dove un giovane italiano cambia vita a Istanbul, e “ Fango “, dove quattro amici turchi cercano di riappacificarsi con il passato nella Cipro divisa.

In libreria, per conoscere una cultura particolare come quella turca, vale la pena leggere “ Istanbul “, dove il premio Nobel Orhan Pamuk esamina il rapporto della famiglia con la città.

• il meze , vera esperienza gastronomica, comprende una selezione di antipasti generalmente a base di verdure ma potrebbero contenere anche del pesce;
• il kebap (carne grigliata) e le köfte (polpette), piatti nazionali dalle innumerevoli sfumature regionali;
• l’ ayran , una bevanda preparata con yogurt, acqua e sale che accompagna i kebap;
• il tè , o  çay in lingua turca, che va gustato con zollette di zucchero che sono utili a contrastare una lunga infusione.

Informazioni utili sul Vietnam

Ci sono diverse zone e le relative condizioni climatiche cambiano in base alla posizione geografica Non è facile individuare un periodo ideale per visitare il Paese ma generalmente  la scelta migliore è quella di partire in una stagione intermedia, da fine ottobre ad aprile , quando le precipitazioni sono ridotte, l’umidità non è oppressiva e le temperature sono abbastanza gradevoli in tutto il Paese.

+6 ore rispetto all’Italia (+5 ore quando in Italia vige l’ora legale)

La moneta usata nel Paese è il Dong Vietnamita . Attualmente un euro equivale a circa 27.078 Dong. La monetA non è convertibile al di fuori del Paese.

Per contattare il Vietnam dall’Italia è necessario anteporre al numero di telefono il prefisso 0084-24 per Hanoi e 0084-28 per Ho Chi Minh City.

Necessario passaporto con validità residua di almeno sei mesi dalla data d’ingresso nel Paese. Il visto non è necessario per soggiorni fino a 15 giorni e ingresso singolo.

Per ammirare il Vietnam sul grande schermo consigliamo di vedere Apocalypse Now , il capolavoro di Francis Ford Coppola del 1979, e  Platoon , di Olver Stone.

In biblioteca, invece, consigliamo “ Un americano tranquillo ”, ambientato durante il crollo dell’impero coloniale francese.

Ecco infine alcuni piatti da non perdere:

• il Bun cha , popolare cibo di strada fatto da fettine o polpette di maiale servite con noodles di riso, erbe aromatiche e verdure fresche, tutto accompagnato dalla salsa di pesce ( nuoc mam );
• il Pho bo , delizia del nord del Paese, è composto da una zuppa di noodles e manzo;
• il Banh xeo , una crèpe di farina di riso farcita di maiale, gamberetti, fagioli e germogli di soia.

Informazioni utili sull’Irlanda

Il periodo migliore per un viaggio in Irlanda va  da giugno a metà settembre , è il periodo più adatto (alta stagione) per visitare il Paese visto il clima molto gradevole.

Il tempo è per lo più bello anche nei periodi di Pasqua , fino a maggio (con un alternanza di sole e piogge) e da metà settembre a fine ottobre . In questo periodo, rispetto all’alta stagione, le tariffe diminuiscono e si trovano molti meno turisti in giro per il Paese.

Una delle informazioni utili sull’Irlanda più importante è la differenza oraria: il Paese si trova sul meridiano di Greenwich ed è quindi un’ora indietro rispetto all’Italia . Da marzo a fine ottobre vige l’ora legale.

La moneta ufficiale dell’Irlanda è l’ Euro .

Per chiamare dall’Italia in Irlanda, digitare il prefisso internazionale 00353 seguito dal prefisso nazionale senza lo 0 iniziale e dal numero dell’abbonato.

Per l’ingresso nel Paese sono necessari il passaporto oppure la  carta d’identità valida per l’espatrio . Ricordiamo che si deve viaggiare con uno dei due documenti in corso di validità.

Sul grande schermo è interessante il film “ Il vento che accarezza l’erba ” di Ken Loach, che narra di due fratelli della County Cork divisi dalla guerra civile, e “ Michael Collins “ ,  storia di uno dei fautori dell’indipendenza irlandese.

In libreria, oltre alle numerose guide sull’Irlanda, segnaliamo “Gente di Dublino” dove sono raccolte storie di vita quotidiana e “ Paddy Clarke ha ha ha “, storia e avventure di un bambino di 10 anni.

Il pasto tipico irlandese prevede la carne ma anche il pesce ormai è sempre più spesso presente a tavola, soprattutto nelle regioni occidentali. Tra le specialità più gustose segnaliamo i piatti a base di patate come il colcannon e il champ .

Uno dei prodotti più tipici del Paese è il pane, il Soda Bread , con la presenza di bicarbonato di sodio in quanto la farina irlandese è troppo soffice perché si possa usare il lievito.

La Guinness è forse la birra di malto più famosa di tutto il mondo, ma esistono altri stabilimenti di stout a Cork: Murphy’s e Beamish & Crawford!

Informazioni utili su Israele

I periodi migliori per un viaggio qui, con temperature miti, sono la primavera (aprile/maggio) e l’autunno (settembre/ottobre) . L’inverno può essere freddo e mentre nel sud di Israele può fare molto caldo nei mesi estivi. Prestare particolare attenzione ai viaggi durante le principali festività ebraiche (molti pellegrini presenti, prezzi alti e spostamenti difficoltosi).

L’ora in Israele è +1 rispetto  all’Italia.

La moneta utilizzata in Israele è lo Shekel . Attualmente un euro equivale a circa 4,10 Shekel.

Per contattare Israele dall’Italia è necessario anteporre al numero di telefono il prefisso 00972 .

Per l’ingresso in Israele è necessario il passaporto con validità di almeno sei mesi dalla data di ingresso. Il visto non è richiesto per i turisti che rimangono nel Paese per massimo 90 giorni.

Tra i film, da vedere “ Il figlio dell’Altra “, del 2012, nel quale Joseph scopre di non essere il figlio biologico dei suoi genitori, poiché appena nato è stato scambiato per errore con Yacine, palestinese dei territori occupati della Cisgiordania.

In libreria, “ Una via di pace. In viaggio tra Israele e Palestina “, tappa dopo tappa, ci porta a scoprire i paesaggi, i cibi, i profumi, la storia antica e recente, i volti e le abitudini di una terra difficile ma bellissima.

• felafel , ottimo mix di ceci e/o fave e spezie che si può trovare a ogni angolo di strada a prezzi economici;
• hummus , salsa a base di pasta di ceci tritati con Tehina (salsa a base di sesamo), limone, olio d’oliva, sale e aglio;
• shwarma , cibo di strada popolare in Israele composto da fettine di carne di tacchino, pollo o agnello (simile al kebab turco);
• jachnun , piatto tradizionale yemenita servito solitamente durante lo Shabbat (Pasta arrotolata con margarina, che viene cotta durante la notte per circa 10-12 ore);
• shakshouka , miscuglio di pomodori, cipolle, aglio e spezie (una salsa) servito con un uovo in camicia.

Informazioni utili sulla Colombia

La stagione secca va da dicembre a marzo ed è la migliore per organizzare un viaggio nel Paese . Per il resto bisogna sapersi adattare ai cambiamenti tra le varie regioni: clima tropicale e umido in Amazzonia, freddo sulle montagne, semi-desertico nella regione a nord ovest del Paese confinante con il Venezuela.

L’orario in Colombia è -6 rispetto  all’Italia, -7 quando in Italia vige l’ora legale .

La moneta utilizzata in Colombia è il  Peso Colombiano . Attualmente un euro equivale a circa 3.5 Pesos.

Per contattare la Turchia dall’Italia è necessario anteporre al numero di telefono il prefisso 0057.

L’ingresso in Colombia per motivi turistici è necessario il passaporto con data di scadenza non inferiore ai tre mesi dalla data di entrata nel Paese. Necessario il biglietto aereo di ritorno (viene richiesto dalle compagnie aeree al momento della partenza dall’Italia).

Come informazioni utili sulla Colombia, è bene documentarsi su film e libri da guardare e leggere prima di partire.

Tra i film, “ Apaporis “, film-documentario del 2010 sulla vita nella regione amazonica, e “ All’inseguimento della pietra verde “, film avventura con Michael Douglas.

In libreria, per conoscere la cultura colombiana non passa inosservato “ Cent’anni di solitudine “, capolavoro di Gabriel Garcìa Màrquez.

Altre informazioni utili sulla Colombia riguardano il cibo, da provare:

• la “ bandeja paisa ”, originaria di Medellín: riso, fagioli, salsicce, manzo, uova, pancetta, banana, avocado fresco e ispa;
• la “ lechona ”, carne di maiale e manzo con riso;
• il “ sancocho ” e l’“ ajiaco ”, zuppe tradizionali con brodo con patate, verdure e spezie (anche con la variante di pesce);
• il caffè , la bevanda più consumata! Gli ambulanti che trovate per strada potranno offrirvi un bicchiere di tinto (caffè nero), di pintado (macchiato) o con leche (caffellatte).

Informazioni utili sugli Emirati Arabi

Il clima di Dubai è subtropicale desertico, con inverni miti ed estati molto calde (con un alto tasso di umidità). Il periodo migliore per visitare Dubai e gli Emirati va da dicembre ad aprile, quando il caldo lascia spazio a temperature miti . I mesi migliori per godere del sole e del mare, invece, vanno invece da maggio a novembre, quando fa caldo e anche l’acqua del mare permette piacevoli e lunghi bagni.

L’ora a Dubai e negli Emirati è +3 rispetto all’Italia e +2 quando in Italia vige l’ora legale.

La moneta utilizzata negli Emirati Arabi è il  Dirham . Attualmente un euro equivale a circa 4,15 Dirham.

Per contattare la Turchia dall’Italia è necessario anteporre al numero di telefono il prefisso 00971.

Per l’ingresso negli Emirati è necessario il passaporto con validità residua di almeno sei mesi al momento dell’ingresso nel Paese.

Vige l’esenzione dal visto EAU per corto soggiorno (sino a 90 giorni ogni 180) a favore dei cittadini UE.

Tra i film che mostrano alcuni luoghi degli Emirati troviamo “ Mission: Impossible – Protocollo Fantasma” , con Tom Cruise, e “ Star Wars ” (il deserto del film è il Rub’ al-Khali, il Quarto Vuoto)

In libreria, oltre alle guide turistiche, potrebbe suscitare interesse “ La costruzione del Medio Oriente ” di Bernard Lewis, il quale tratta in maniera approfondita l’evoluzione storica di questa parte di mondo, e il più veloce “ I love Dubai “ , di Federica Marchese, dove si raccontano i mille contrasti della città di Dubai.

• Balalit : vermicelli con sciroppo di zucchero, acqua di rose, zafferano e cipolle saltate servito solitamente per la colazione;
• Haris , spesso definito “piatto nazionale” e simile alla polenta (frumento macinato cotto con l’agnello);
• Makbus , riso con carne e spezie (o con pesce) condito con noci, uvetta e cipolle fritte;
• Madruba , pesce sotto sale (o pollo) cotto con farina di frumento fino a ridurlo in crema.

Informazioni utili sul Giappone

QUANDO ANDARE

Il periodo migliore per un viaggio in Giappone è durante l’inizio della primavera o nel tardo autunno (precipitazioni non abbondanti e temperature più accettabili rispetto a quelle rigide invernali o quelle calde e umide estive).

La primavera e l’autunno sono periodi interessanti anche per due “fenomeni” naturali: l’ hanami (fioritura dei ciliegi in primavera) e il foliage  (in autunno).

In Giappone ci sono 8 ore in più rispetto all’Italia, 7 quando in Italia vige l’ora legale.

La moneta utilizzata in Giappone è lo  Yen . Attualmente un euro equivale a circa 125,15 Yen.

Per contattare il Giappone dall’Italia è necessario anteporre al numero di telefono il prefisso 0081 + il prefisso della città senza lo zero .

Per l’ingresso in Giappone è necessario il passaporto in corso di validità e il biglietto aereo di ritorno.

Visto non obbligatorio per soggiorni di turismo inferiori a 90 giorni.

Come informazioni utili sul Giappone, è bene documentarsi su film e libri da guardare e leggere prima di partire.

Tra i film, non può mancare “ Memorie di una geisha “, con scenografie e costumi che rappresentano realmente quello che si può incontrare nel Paese, e l’animazione di pellicole come “ La città incantata ” del genio di Miyazaki e “ Your Name ” di Makoto Shinkai.

In libreria, per conoscere una cultura particolare come quella giapponese, vale la pena leggere “ Autostop con Buddha “, un viaggio in autostop seguendo il flusso, da sud verso nord, della fioritura del ciliegi. Per una guida approfondita c’è anche “ Tokyo insolita e segreta ” di Pierre Mustière.

Altre informazioni utili sul Giappone riguardano il cibo, da provare:

• sushi (polpettine di riso con pesce, molluschi o verdure preparati in molti modi) e sashimi (pesce crudo senza riso);
• okonomiyaki , una specie di frittata dove si può aggiungere di tutto;
• ramen , un tipico piatto giapponese (di origine cinese) a base di tagliatelle di frumento servite con brodo di carne e/o pesce;
• tempura , una frittura solitamente preparata con gamberi e verdure (come zucchine e zucca) immersi in una pastella e poi fritti.

Informazioni utili sul Myanmar

Il periodo migliore per visitare il Paese va da novembre a febbraio, quando le precipitazioni sono ridotte e il caldo è non è impegnativo .

In Myanmar ci sono 5 ore e mezza in più rispetto all’Italia; 4 e mezza quando in Italia vige l’ora legale.

La moneta utilizzata in Myanmar è il Kyat . Attualmente un euro equivale a circa 1.706,80 Kyat.

Per contattare il Myanmar dall’Italia è necessario anteporre al numero di telefono il prefisso 0095.

Necessario il passaporto con validità residua di almeno 6 mesi dal momento dell’entrata in Myanmar. Necessario anche il visto, da richiedere all’Ambasciata della Repubblica dell’Unione del Myanmar a Roma.

Come informazioni utili sul Myanmar, è bene documentarsi su film e libri da guardare e leggere prima di partire.

Tra i film ci sono  “The Lady” , di Luc Besson, che racconta la vita della leader Aung San Suu Kyi, e “ Oltre Rangoon “, un affresco epico tratto da una storia vera.

In libreria, per conoscere la cultura birmana, si possono leggere “ Giorni in Birmania ” di George Orwell ,  e “ La Valle dei Rubini ” di Joseph Kessel, un’avventura da leggere fino alla fine!

La cucina birmana è influenzata molto dalle cucine indiana, cinese e thailandese : l’ingrediente principale è il riso, anche se noodles e pane si trovano ovunque!

La cucina birmana utilizza inoltre gamberi, pesce, maiale, curry, masala e i peperoncini rossi. Il Mohinga , considerato piatto nazionale, è un brodo di pesce gatto al curry con farina di ceci, vermicelli di riso e salsa di pesce.

Informazioni utili sull’Oman

Da metà di ottobre a metà marzo è il periodo migliore per visitare il sultanato , mentre nel sud, da giugno a settembre, c’è la stagione dei monsoni.

Per recarsi nel paese, non a livello climatico, si deve tenere presente inoltre il periodo del Ramadan e il compleanno del Profeta.

In Oman ci sono 3 ore in più rispetto all’Italia; 2 quando in Italia è in vigore l’ora legale.

La moneta utilizzata in Oman è il  Rial omanita . Attualmente un euro equivale a circa 0,43 Rial.

Per contattare la Turchia dall’Italia è necessario anteporre al numero di telefono il prefisso 00968.

Per l’ingresso in Oman è necessario il passaporto con validità residua di almeno sei mesi al momento dell’arrivo nel Paese.

Dal 21 marzo 2018 è obbligatorio effettuare la richiesta di visto prima dell’ingresso nel Paese tramite il sito: https://evisa.rop.gov.om/en/home

• datteri , alimento base della cucina omanita;
• shawerma , versione omanita del kebab turco, è costituito da carne di pollo o manzo arrostita alla spiedo e avvolta nel pane (o semplicemente distesa su di esso);
• kahwa , il caffè omanita è molto forte, leggermente amaro e aromatizzato;
• halwa , il classico dolce della cucina locale preparato con semola, zucchero, acqua di rose, burro indiano, il tutto aromatizzato con cardamomo e mandorle.

Informazioni utili sulla Germania

Il clima tedesco è variabile e quindi in qualunque periodo dell’anno il consiglio è quello di essere equipaggiati per qualsiasi condizione atmosferica. Generalmente, però, il periodo migliore per visitare il paese è quello compreso tra maggio e ottobre  (alta stagione turistica).

Tuttavia, nelle stagioni intermedie (inizio primavera e tardo autunno) ci sono meno turisti e il tempo può essere piacevole!

In Germania non c’è differenza oraria con l’Italia.

La moneta utilizzata in Germania è l’Euro.

Per contattare la Germania dall’Italia è necessario anteporre al numero di telefono il prefisso 0049.

Per l’ingresso in Germania sono sufficienti passaporto o carta d’identità in corso di validità.

Come informazioni utili sulla Germania, è bene documentarsi su film e libri da guardare e leggere prima di partire.

Tra i film, non può mancare “ Goodbye Lenin “, una delle pellicole più amate del cinema tedesco, e “ Le vite degli altri “, che racconta la tensione nella Berlino della DDR.

In libreria, per conoscere la cultura tedesca citiamo “ Piccolo viaggio nell’anima tedesca “, un invito a capire gli altri per capire se stessi fuori dai luoghi comuni, e “ Il cielo diviso ” di Christa Wolf, uno spaccato di storia recente sul muro di Berlino.

Altre informazioni utili sulla Germania riguardano il cibo, da provare:

• gli spätzle , un tipo di pasta all’uovo tipico nella Germania del sud;
• il leberkäse , un salume tipico della zona bavarese;
• il pane nero , ottenuto con farina di segale, farro integrale e farina bianca;
• la bienenstich , torta composta da un impasto soffice, crema e caramello alle mandorle.

Informazioni utili sull’India

Il clima in India è così diversificato da regione a regione che è impossibile scegliere un periodo migliore di altri per il viaggio. Generalmente e in buona parte del paese i mesi più adatti sono quelli che vanno da ottobre a marzo .

Nell’estremo sud (causa monsoni) il periodo tendenzialmente migliore va da gennaio a settembre; per il Sikkim e per l’India nordorientale marzo-agosto è il periodo migliore; nel Kashmir e nelle regioni montagnose dell’Himachal Pradesh è meglio recarsi tra maggio e settembre; i deserti del Rajasthan e la regione himalayana nordoccidentale sono meglio percorribili nella stagione dei monsoni.

In India l’ora è avanti di 4,30 ore rispetto all’Italia (3,30 quando in Italia vige l’ora legale).

La moneta utilizzata in India è la  Rupia . Attualmente un euro equivale a circa 78,2 Rupie.

Per contattare l’India dall’Italia è necessario anteporre al numero di telefono il prefisso 0091.

Per l’ingresso in India è necessario il passaporto con validità residua di almeno sei mesi al momento dell’arrivo.

Necessario il visto per soggiorni di breve periodo (massimo 60 giorni) per turismo, affari e cure mediche. I viaggiatori possono avvalersi dell’eVisa.

Come informazioni utili sull’India è bene documentarsi su film e libri da guardare e leggere prima di partire.

Tra i film, non può mancare “ Gandhi ” un classico del 1982 sul personaggio più emblematico dell’India (di Richard Attenborough).

In libreria “ La tigre bianca “, un romanzo premiato sulle lotte di classe nell’India globalizzata, del 2008, e “ I figli della mezzanotte ” del 1981, sul tema dell’indipendenza.

Altre informazioni utili sull’India riguardano il cibo. Il numero di vegetariani che si conta in India è superiore quello del resto del mondo; nonostante questo, la cucina indiana offre un’ampia scelta di piatti a base di carne, pollo, agnello e montone . La religione proibisce infatti agli Indù di mangiare carne bovina e ai musulmani quella suina.

Gli alimenti della cucina indiana variano molto dal nord al sud del paese ma vi è un piatto che mette tutti d’accordo: il dalh, un curry denso di lenticchie o altri legumi (fino a 60 diversi legumi).

Il riso è l’alimento fondamentale in tutta l’India, soprattutto al sud, che viene servito caldo praticamente con ogni piatto in umido.

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Coach / Bus Tours in Italy 2024/2025

Take in the picturesque landscapes and remarkable sights on a guided Coach / Bus adventure of Italy. There are 201 vacation packages to choose from, that range in length from 3 days up to 22 days. The most popular month for these tours is September.

201 Coach / Bus trips around Italy with 6,464 reviews

• Coach / Bus

Sicily & Aegadian Islands (10 days/9 nights) - starting from Catania

• €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Italy from North to South

We really enjoyed the trip, everything was well arranged including the airport transport. All hotel rooms were really good with air- conditioned rooms. Our tour guides and drivers were excellent especially the north tour - Stephano, Clara and Franco was a brilliant team. We visited a lot of places over the 10 days, but it was just right without rushing through too many things. Most of the days we reached the hotels back at around 6pm, so there was enough time to relax in the evening at our own leisure. WhatsApp contacts were very useful, so you didn’t have to call anyone, and the messages were quickly answered. Only things to suggest - it would be great if an available menu was provided to choose for those with dietary requirements ( vegetarians, gluten free etc). Saying that the restaurant at Hotel Michaelangelo at Sorrento was brilliant, my son really enjoyed their gluten free menu. Overall we had an excellent experience- seeing lot of places with good tour directors and drivers for north and south tours along with knowledgeable and friendly local guides.

Discover Italy

Overall experience was too good. itinerary was reasonable..And our travel guide Sabrina was Superb. But one thing i want to say the hotels were far from the city centre. We had a wish to explore the city in leisure time which we could not .Thanks.

Italian Holiday (7 Days)

This tour was a once in a lifetime experience....Fantastic! Would definetely recommend it to anyone!

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Splendor of Sicily 8 Days Tour - from Catania

Excellent!! The team was so kind and patient with everyone and handled all the logistics seamlessly (for example, fast at getting us checked in with hotel room keys), so I just got to focus on the fun stuff. Angelo the tour guide was incredibly knowledgeable and attentive to the smallest details of people’s needs, for example people who don’t care to eat fish, and that was amazing considering we had about 40 people in our group. The tour explanation and itinerary online matched really well to what we experienced, so it was great to have that predictability. I thought each day was a good mix of guided tour time and some free time to explore or just rest. So thankful for this opportunity—without a guide and a driver, I’m sure I would have never been able to see and learn SO much about beautiful Sicily! Grazie mille!

Sicilian Landscapes: Catania-Catania (8 days/7 nights)

On the whole the tour was good though it felt strenuous at times. The guides and driver did a good job coordinating. The most-used hotel was elegant and well located though it did have problems with air conditioning and hot water. The itinerary could have omitted a few stops, in particular a 2 hour visit to a shopping mall. The mix of travelers was fun. We met people from all over the world.

Highlights of the Amalfi Coast

First time traveling with Exodus, and would definitely do again. It was well organized, our guide had great ideas and the food was good!

Italian Expresso - 5 days

Great way to make the most of your time in Italy, we had 5 days and on this tour we were able to cram in lots of great sights from Rome to Venice and back. Thank you to our guide Lucy who was very helpful and knowledgeable. Would recommend this tour.

A Taste of Italy: 11 Days

It was an enjoyable cross-section of Italian culture The architecture,the people, the food & wine with lashings of history thankyou very much.

Mini Tour of Sicily from Catania to Palermo

The accommodation was excellent, the meals were great, the tour guide and driver did their jobs well. At times we were standing for too long listening to guides. Need to consider the age demographic and look at finding more seating on the walking tours. Some of the towns we visited were for free time and there was really nothing to see or do- wasted hours. Please consider the locations and the number of stairs as this impacted our enjoyment. The tour stated suitable for children through to 90- a little misleading. Overall we enjoyed the tour, just a few glitches that could be addressed. ????

Best of Italy (Classic, Summer, 11 Days)

My wife and I took the Best of Italy tour in September, 2017. The tour director (Debra) and bus driver (Alessio) were excellent. The itinerary was also excellent. We visited all of the sights in Rome, Florence, Tuscany, Venice, Pisa, Assissi, Pompei, Sorrento, Positano, and Capri. The hotels were average at best. All of the breakfast buffets were disappointing. We had terrific lunches at rest stops while driving from city to another. The food at these rest stops is surprisingly good. My biggest complaint is the included group dinners which were either at the hotel or in a restaurant. These dinners did not offer any choice of meals. They just served everyone the same thing where the food was tasteless and sometimes inedible. My whole life I heard how amazing the food in Italy is supposed to be. Because this happened on several dinners, I cannot give Insight a overall good review. On the days where were able to eat out on our own for either lunch or dinner, we did enjoy the food at restaurants that we found by recommendations.

A Taste of Italy: 8 Days

At least one emergency contact phone number did not work. In several incidences, we were left to find our own ways back to the hotels from the tourist spots. Since the radio is not always clear and some tour guides have heavy accents, It would be much better if all the important instructions could be available on printed paper.

Best of Italy (Summer, 13 Days)

Overall good, seemed a bit rushed with not enough time to absorb the sites.

Let's Go North - 9 Days/ 8 Days

I loved this tour. I had two guides, first Sasa in Florence and then Veronica for the rest of the tour in Venice and Milan. Both of them were very friendly and knowledgeable. I was excited to have Veronica as my guide because I met her at a London travel expo and I actually booked the tour because she was so knowledgeable and passionate about her company. Even though I was the only one for the second part of the tour, they still ran it for me and I had such a fun time with Veronica. Florence was such a beautiful city. I also loved Venice and we had excellent weather. It was amazing drinking wine and eating Cicchetti by the water. I didn't know very much about Lake Como but I was so glad to go because it was a highlight for me. It was so stunning! I would actually recommend having one night less in Milan and instead have one at Lake Como. The day trips were very nice. I loved wine tasting at San Gimignano. I bought some of the amazing truffle oil. Cinque Terre was also very beautiful. Veronica was an excellent photographer for me!

The Best of Italy

Sometimes it took quite a while to hear from anyone when I had a question.

Italy Coach / Bus Tour Reviews

I would recommend it to my friends.

It was overall a great trip!

Everything about this tour was outstanding! I have no comment only praise!

Regions in Italy

• South Italy (76)
• Sicily (38)
• Central Italy (27)
• Northern Italy (22)
• Campania (16)
• Puglia (15)
• Tuscany (15)
• Amalfi Coast (13)
• Italian Lakes District (10)
• Apulia (10)
• Lombardy (7)
• Cinque Terre (5)

Travel Styles

• 10 Best Coach & Bus Companies (with Reviews)
• Italy Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Itinerary Ideas for 10 Days in Italy, 2022-2023
• Best 7 Day Italy Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Discover the Best Italy Vacation Packages 2024/2025
• What is the best time to visit Italy in 2024/2025?

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A trip to Italy is too special to get wrong. Here's how to do it right. (San Gimignano, Tuscany)

I absolutely love Italy, for many different reasons. But I hate the way in which many Americans go about planning trips there. Survey after survey shows it is the number one dream destination for U.S. leisure travelers, but the way those travelers get their information and advice gives me nightmares.

Throughout the years I’ve heard people say over and over that “I was told to do this in Italy,” or “I was told not to do this in Italy.” By who? “A friend.” I have close friends who recently planned their entire 12-day trip on the basis of another couple they knew who gave them advice—after their first visit. I’ve heard of many people who skipped Rome because “we heard it was too busy, just another big city.” Or passed on Venice, one of the world’s most magical destinations, because, “I heard it was touristy.”

There are American tourists who say you should skip Venice. They are wrong.

It goes on and on, but suffice to say, I have been to Italy in the neighborhood of two dozen times, summer and winter, for food, wine, skiing, golf, hiking, cycling and more food, from north to south and east to west and islands too, and I know a lot about Italian cuisine, but I still ask real experts for advice every time I go. I specifically ask for advice on where to eat, what to see, and who to choose as guides. And by experts, I mean people how live in Italy, specialize in particular areas of travel, and know their subject matter.

“We get multiple guests a year who want to wing it,” says Cherrye Moore, owner of My Bella Vita travel. Moore moved to Calabria two decades ago after falling in love with the region on a visit, and opened a bed and breakfast, learning about what her visitors were looking for. Her company now specializes in planning trips—especially foodie and ancestry trips—to the area in Southern Italy where many Italian Americans trace their heritage. “They say, ‘My neighbor just showed up in their family’s hometown and it went great for them,’ or, ‘Our friends went to Italy last year and said we don't need a driver.’ It’s true that you can rent a car and drive to your family’s hometown, but that experience is vastly different from having a dedicated driver and a heritage specialist who has done research on your family’s history, who has already identified the home your grandfather was born in, and who has arranged meetings with locals upon your arrival.”

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Anyone can tour the Vatican, but only the right guides can get you a private visit.

I just got back from an exploration of Turin followed by a weeklong hiking trip in surrounding Piemonte, Italy’s most prestigious wine region, which included multiple winery visits. For restaurants and guides and sightseeing in Turin I used an Italian-based travel specialist that is the choice of many of the best luxury travel agents/advisors in this country (the best travel agents are savvy enough to know what they do not know and regularly rely on local experts). For the hiking trip, I used an Italy-based active travel specialist that does nothing else, and does it with a food-centric spin. It was another fantastic Italy trip, one amazing day after another, featuring many meals, wineries and experiences I never would have found by myself, especially by asking random friends or watching You Tube influencer videos by people with far less Italy experience than myself.

“We don’t focus on stars or diamonds, we focus on really special one-of-a-kind experiences and lodging that lets you discover our Italy,” said Heather Dowd, who lives in Turin and along with her Italian husband Beppe Salerno. They run Tourissimo , the active travel company we used. We had several friends hiking with us who were on either their very first or second trip to Italy, and when we reviewed our experiences at the end for the trip, one place we stayed, an 18 th century castle turned boutique hotel, was the overwhelming favorite. It did not have whirlpool tubs or Frette linens, it did not have a concierge or room service, but it had excellent food and beautiful gardens in which we had an epic dinner. It had cooking classes, a great location, a fun aperitivo evening cocktail session, and most of all, incredible charm..

Everyone wants the perfect meal in Italy, but not everyone knows where the locals go to find it.

It was exactly what my first timers dreamed Italy would be like, and it was a place we never would have found online. It was perfect, and even in Italy not every place is, but the reality is that Heather and Beppe and their guides spend a lot of time behind the scenes visiting small hotels and vetting them, way more time than the people who rate their stays on booking websites. One of my friends was so impressed he is already planning an extended family hiking trip to Sicily with Tourissimo next year.

If you want to have an insider experience in Italy, and see the places locals go, you need a local insider to help you out.

“Our goal is for guests to experience Calabria like we do, so we’ve built experiences that aren’t available online,” said My Bella Vita’s Moore. “Nowhere else can you find a multi-course lunch hosted at Zia Pina’s or a picnic prepared and delivered by Signora Francesca. Lunch in the home of our friend, Chef Massimo, isn’t available on Google. When creating or reviewing experiences I always think of my sister in Texas. If she were visiting, would I take her here? If that answer is yes, I know we have a winner.” That is exactly the standard by which I’d like my Italy travels to be judged.

A trip to Italy is a beautiful, special, and almost sacred experience, so don’t screw it up by taking bad advice. I do not know every local specialist—and I hope to keep finding more—but I know several experts I would recommend for different kinds of travel. Or use a good travel advisor, something I recommend for all travel (Read my article Why You Need A Travel Agent More Than Ever here at Forbes ), and communicate with them to ensure they are on the same page in terms of sourcing these kinds of local experts. If they are good, they will already be familiar with several of these companies.

Active Travel

All of Tourissimo's cycling and hiking trips in Italy emphasize food and wine, which is how it ... [+] should be.

Italy has long been the dream destination of cyclists, with Tuscany atop the Bucket List for global road riding destinations. But for the past few years the fastest growing sector of cycling has been “gravel grinding,” and with hundreds of miles of its stunning unpaved “white roads,” Tuscany has also emerged as the world’s top travel spot for gravel lovers. There are also plenty of other amazing places to ride in Italy, including Piemonte, Sardinia, Puglia, the Lakes region, and many other areas. World class hiking abounds, especially the stunning Dolomites—a UNESCO World Heritage Site of beauty unmatched by most other mountain regions on earth. Beyond this there are the Alps in the east, the Cinque Terre, Sardinia, and many other great options.

Italy is so well known for cycling and hiking that every major active travel company in the world runs trips there. But for my last two active trips, one hiking and one biking, I chose a tour operator that is actually based there, founded by an Italian with a passion for cycling and food. Tourissimo may be Italian, but they cater to the American market, and founder Beppe Salerno worked for am American cycling company as a guide before realizing he could do the real Italy better himself—to me, the perfect startup rationale. Over the years since, Tourissimo has grown its library of offerings, with both with an array of scheduled group trips and private custom options. While they do mostly road riding, they are notably one of the only tour operators scheduling gravel trips, and can also arrange custom mountain biking itineraries, with years of expertise in cycling and hiking.

Superstar Chef Mary Sue Milliken has led about galf a dozen Chef's Cycling Tours in Italy for ... [+] Tourissimo.

In addition, Tourissimo has also been a pioneer in “Active Culinary Travel,” a hot new category I have written about here at Forbes (and for other magazines and newspapers). They offer an annual series of six group rides (and a hike) each hosted by an acclaimed chef like Mary Sue Milliken, an award-winning chef, restaurateur, cookbook author (five!) and co-host of the popular PBS cooking show Two Hot Tamales . She is also an avid cyclist and has led the Tourissimo Chef Bike Tours for several years, along with other big names. These trips are a unique option for serious foodies who also ride, while the other trips cater to just about anyone. Otherwise they offer several styles of trips, from Bici Basics for new riders to Ambitious Tours for the more hard core.

Tourissimo puts a focus on local, choosing small and often historic hotels that they have curated and vetted (like the castle I just stayed at in Piemonte), places that you would never be able to distinguish from hundreds of other non-chain options online. Same for restaurants, wineries, and all the other ways they take you behind the scenes and into their real Italy. Their Mission Statement? “We don't want to be the biggest adventure travel company. We want to design and run the best tours in Italy. We strive to be the most authentic and the most beneficial to local communities.” Fantastico!

Bellagio on Lake Como is one of the most famous destinations in Italy — and the perfect place for a ... [+] food-centric bike tour!

Bike It! Bellagio offers another insider biking experience on a much different scale, providing a great one-day experience for visitors to Italy’s most famous lake town. This bike shop on Lake Como is run by a former pro racer and his wife. They rent bikes (road, mountain and e-bikes) out, but also offer one-day guided tours with multiple food and drink stops. Given that the owner grew up here and knows everyone, it’s not surprising that the food and drink spots are insider picks. The shop sits near the iconic Madonna del Ghisallo climb, the most famous in the Giro di Lombardia, a race more than a century old, and several days a week the shop offers guided group rides with a climb of the pass, on road or e-bikes—Bianchi bikes of course!

There are scheduled tours Monday through Saturday, as well as wide range of customizable private tours. These are often taken by families with mixed ages, but for more aggressive riders they offer longer road tours, mountain biking and gravel riding, along with a wide range of less demanding e-bike tours, including some even more focused on food and wine. They also offer a handful of multi-day tours and can put these together as custom on demand, usually for groups, including an iconic coast to coast traverse of Italy. If you are a guest of one of the many stunning (and pricey) ultra-luxury hotels around Bellagio, and ask the concierge to arrange a bike tour, they are likely going to call this shop anyway (and mark it up) so just do it yourself.

Luxury Travel in Italy

From planning your entire itinerary with flights, hotels, and transfers to just booking the best tours, guides and VIP access (often to non-public highlights), it pays to use a top local specialist.

Last year I attended the annual Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas, which has been called “the Oscars of the travel industry.” Virtuoso is the leading global luxury travel consortium, and many of the best travel advisors on earth belong, So does just about every top hotel, resort, safari lodge, cruise line, and luxury tour operator. Virtuoso CEO Matthew Upchurch was explaining the many advantages of using a travel advisor (I wholeheartedly agree) and something he said really stuck with me. He explained that with all of the new online tour booking companies, it was easier than ever to book a tour or guide in just about any destination on earth, but harder than ever to judge the quality. The caveat was that, “you can book a guide, but you can’t book my guide.”

One of Italy's greatest hidden gems, Turin was the nation's first capital and a Winter Olympic host. ... [+] It's worth getting a good guide if you visit.

The Vatican is the Vatican and the Colosseum is the Colosseum, so when you opt for a guided tour, what really matters and makes it a good, bad or great experience is the guide—and their special access, like a tour of the Vatican when no one else is there.

For my recent trip to Turin, I called Imago Artis Travel , an Italy-based luxury travel specialist. They are what is known in the travel industry as a destination management company or DMC, the same companies luxury travel agents call to arrange local details for their clients. There are great DMCs all over the world, and local knowledge is valuable everywhere, but many of them do not deal directly with travelers, while in Italy the best ones do.

I wanted a private day tour of Turin and its surrounding attractions for my wife and I, most importantly the Reggia di Venaria Reale, aka the “Italian Versailles” (one of two places in Italy with this lofty but accurate nickname). The guide they got for me was a licensed guide, and lifelong resident of Turin, and spoke excellent English, which was all good, but she was also an architect, which was great in a city where so much is driven by architecture. That’s not so easy to find on global tour aggregator website. Imago Artis also gave me a list of their favorite restaurant recommendations, which were spot on, then made my reservations for me. At a minimum this eliminates the language barrier of calling or the technology barrier of booking through often tricky (or non-functional) Italian restaurant reservation websites, but in many cases it also gets you a better table and instant VIP treatment—which definitely does not happen when I book myself.

Italy is rich in world-class crafts, and companies like Imago Artis can take you behind the scenes ... [+] to meet the makers.

Imago Artis Travel is a Virtuoso member, which means when you book through them, if you book your luxury hotel, you get extras like room upgrades, late checkout, spa credits etc., one of the big advantages of working with Virtuoso travel advisors. If you have a bigger budget than I do, they can handle all sorts of luxury transport, private jets, helicopters, boat charters, and also offer VIP Meet and Greet services at just about every airport in Italy. They can even arrange private security details. On a more accessible luxury level, they specialize in exclusive experiences, unlocking historic buildings and art collections not open to the public, and taking you behind the scenes with many artisans of Italy, from custom shoemakers to sculptors to jewelry designers. They know food, they know the guides, and I especially like their mission statement, “Our mission is simple: Getting You to the Heart of Italy.” That’s what it is all about.

Another top luxury DMC that is also a member of Virtuoso that I have used in the past with great success is IC Bellagio . They offer a similar array of luxury services and are very well connected, but they also specialize in Villa rentals as well as 5-Star hotels. Differentiating villas in Italy may be the single biggest challenge, more so than restaurants, with so many options and so few valid reviews. IC Bellagio has also boldly acknowledged the overtourism problems some of the most popular parts of Italy face, and are pushing “Slow Season Travel,” which varies in each of the country’s 20 regions but is something they are expert in. Last winter I went to Venice in the off-season, and it was spectacular, and I just traveled in a slow season to Piemonte. It was much, much better than fighting the crowds.

Skiing in Italy is awesome, and it's the best place in the world to stay in mountain rifugios — but ... [+] you need help for the perfect trip.

Skiing in Italy remains a bit under the radar for Europe, especially compared to France and Switzerland. Well, let the crowds go to other countries, because Italy has two different major ski regions, both of which have hosted the Winter Olympics, and the Games are returning to Milan and Cortina in 2026. The interconnected Dolomiti SuperSki lift and trail network in the Dolomites is arguably the largest “ski resort” in the world, and inarguably one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes on the planet. The towns are charming, the food is great, there are spectacular hotels from non-chain independent hidden gems to world-class luxury (Aman, Mandarin Oriental, Relais & Chateaux, etc.) and it’s cheaper than much of the rest of Europe. Did I mention the food?

I first went to the Dolomites to go hiking, and was so wowed I thought, “I have to come back and ski here.” I came back the next winter and skied, and the following year I got a group of friends together and went back. I have skied all over the U.S., and all over the world and never had the same compulsion to return to the same place immediately. That’s how good skiing in Italy is ( read much more in my Italy skiing piece here at Forbes ).

I’ve only used one company for ski travel in Italy and see no reason to switch gears, especially since the local logistics (a great guide/instructor, transfers, the best on-mountain meals and staying a couple of nights in the region’s unique on-mountain rifugios) is very hard to organize on your own. The company is Dolomite Mountains , a specialist in both resort ski vacations and backcountry touring trips (using skins and alpine touring or AT gear). They too are a U.S. facing company with mainly American clientele.

Like many active travel companies, they offer both group trip scheduled departure options and private custom trips to fit whatever you want. The group option is called the Dolomites Ski Safari and is a 7-day trip mixing stays in amazing rifugios with in-town hotels (4 and 5-stars on the Italian system) and includes all breakfasts and dinners, a full-time guide, ski pass, luggage transfers and more. Custom options include the same kind of trip for your own group, or anything you want, and while its name suggests local expertise—quite true—Dolomite Mountains also handles ski trips in the rest of Italy, like Courmayeur, and connected border regions of France, Switzerland and Austria, as many lift systems here know no national boundaries (ski with your passport!). They are also a Virtuoso member.

Calabria & Southern Italy

Many Italian Americans trace their ancestry to Southern Italy's Calabria, and if you want to visit, ... [+] make sure you do it right.

My Bella Vita travel focuses on this area, including both small group trips and custom privates. Their specialties include “Heritage Tours” for those interested in their ancestry, and a food focus for the rest of us. For instance, Taste of the South is a 12-day gastronomic journey through Calabria, Basilicata and Naples—the birthplace of pizza! Food & Wine of Calabria is an 11-daty trip and just what it sounds like.

These are some of the scheduled small group tours offered, but the rest of their business is private trip planning and custom options.

“Italy is deceivingly large, and travelers think two weeks is enough time to see everything. It isn’t,” insists Moore. “You can’t even experience all of Calabria in two weeks. Our team collectively spends about six months a year scouting new hotels, restaurants, and experiences in Calabria and we are constantly re-evaluating and tweaking our recommendations.”

There are some other Italy specialists I have not personally experienced, but that come highly recommended by some of my other experts:

My Bella Vita’s Cherrye Moore says, “ In Sicily, I recommend Lucia Davies of Sicily Tour , one of a trio of British expats who have lived in Siracusa, Sicily for decades.” A family-owned tour-guiding company based in Siracusa, they have nearly 40 years of experience on the island and create trips fostering cultural exchange between Italy and English-speaking visitors, specializing in small group and custom tours.

Food & Wine

Life is too short to go to Italy and not eat well.

Beppe and Heather Dowd of Tourissimo recommend Lazy Italian Culinary Adventures , a company that has also earned kudos from other travel industry folks I know. Owner Francesca Montillo grew up in Southern Italy where her father was greengrocer. An Italian-American cookbook author, she launched the company a decade ago, and she personally leads the tours. She does numerous scheduled tours to different regions each year, and also offers custom private itineraries.

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How to Hike Mt. Etna, an Active Volcano in Italy

M ount Etna loomed large over everything as we arrived in eastern Sicily that early January. From miles away, I could see the steam plumes rising from the snow-topped behemoth, like blown-out candles on a hastily iced birthday cake. Appropriately, I was on a milestone birthday road trip around Sicily, from Palermo to Catania. The second-to-last stop: Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano and also its tallest, at 10,900 feet. Scientists believe Etna has been active for more than 500,000 years, presiding over Sicily long before humans arrived.

I'm no stranger to volcano hikes. I've summited several active stratovolcanoes (composite volcanoes) in my lifetime, from New Zealand's Tongariro to Nicaragua's Concepción. Italy is the only country on mainland Europe with active volcanoes, thanks largely to its location near two tectonic plates. Vesuvius, the most notorious among them, engulfed and preserved the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum after a violent eruption in 79 A.D. Stromboli has had regular minor eruptions for thousands of years. While Mount Etna hasn't had a catastrophic eruption since an infamous incident in 1669, its many eruptions in 2023 filled the news with jaw-dropping photos of lava vaulting into the atmosphere. When I thought of Sicily, I thought of turquoise-colored waters, stunning cathedrals, small villages, ancient ruins and, of course, the wine and food (pasta alla Norma in particular). I hadn't pictured an almost-constantly gurgling volcano that locals ski down in winter.

Now, one might ask, why voluntarily climb something that could blow at any minute? It's a perfectly reasonable question, and it sits at the smoldering heart of volcano tourism, which has exploded (no pun intended) in recent years as eruptions have captured the world-Kīlauea in Hawai'i and Fagradalsfjall in Iceland, for example-even as the volcano blowouts damage or disrupt local economies.

Volcano tourism brings thousands of visitors to Sicily each year. Ten municipalities surround Mount Etna, with several villages of 5,000 residents or fewer who depend heavily on tourism from volcano visitors. Since its 2013 designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Etna has been one of Sicily's top-growing attractions. The Parco dell'Etna has taken steps to keep the crowds in check to maintain the volcano's integrity: specifically, limited parking, steep access fees, and the strong recommendation to take guided visits. The cable car to the start of the trails (8,202 feet) is 50 euros per person. Navigating Etna's unmarked paths and frequently shifting landscape requires the expertise of volcano guides. Visitors are permitted to hike up to about 9,000 feet alone, after which a guide is necessary, for both safety and environmental reasons.

A mountain of many moods

On the morning of our hike, my rental car begrudgingly changed gears on the snake-like winding drive from the town of Nicolosi to Rifugio Sapienza (6,266 feet above sea level) in Parco dell'Etna. As we approached the southern slope of the volcano along a twisting road, we spotted the glistening sea, villas with citrus trees poking over the gates, and small family vineyards making use of the area's fertile volcanic soil.

After acquiring gourmet deli sandwiches for our future lunch break at the meeting point (it's Italy, after all), we took the cable car up to meet our volcano guide, Vincenzo Greco . Vincenzo is a local volcanologist and second-generation Etna guide. He studied geology at the University of Catania and became the youngest person ever to achieve certification as a volcanology guide in Italy.

We started our ascent-excited to work off days of Sicilian cannoli-and trekked through the Valle del Bove. Winter-tanned Vincenzo introduced us to the volcano. He explained which eruption created which new landscape, noting how old this new rock ledge was or how this patch of ground has changed in the past decade. Six weeks before my arrival, in November, a new vent opened on the southeast crater at nearly 9,200 feet. A second vent opened three days later, effusing the new lava . In December, the lava flows reached Valle del Leone and the greater Valle del Bove, depressions on the eastern slope, creating a lava flow field and burping up occasional ash amid the steam and gasses. The lava flows would stop in February, once again reworking the landscape of Etna.

Everything here changes. I recalled the homes we passed on the way in, squarely in the line of Etna's fire if she ever got angry enough. With the windy road and altitude, there could be no escape if something happened. You really have to love the volcano, Vincenzo said, or at least love living by it or perhaps just be a bit stubborn.

Vincenzo and Etna have a passionate Italian relationship. He loves Etna, but their quarrels are, well . . . volcanic. He studies her moods and knows her mannerisms. He flew a drone over an eruption once and her heat melted his camera. It was an expensive mistake, but the few photos he got were spectacular.

About half an hour into the hike, Vincenzo ducked toward a large crevasse between two rocks. "Feel this!" he exclaimed excitedly. "But be careful." I inched forward, waving my hand around in the air aimlessly until a burst of boiling heat hit my skin. It was a small steam vent-Etna saying hello. The power of the invisible heat surprised me. It was a reminder of how easy it is to fall into a false sense of security up here. This isn't your average molehill. Thanks to unmarked paths and a disorienting amount of regular landscape shifts, Vincenzo and his fellow guides have had to rescue tourists when Etna gets moody.

Our hiking group turned a corner and came face-to-face with a lava tunnel formed by a previous eruption. We smushed into the narrowing pathway one at a time. The rock walls towered overhead on both sides, blocking out the sun above. Following the same path as a recent river of molten red lava was a stark reminder of Etna's power.

A crunchy layer of snow covered the black lava rocks throughout the journey, turning the scene into a black-and-white photo anytime the clouds rolled in and covered the bluebird sky. Typically, this time of year, hikers might need snowshoes or cross-country skis in addition to hiking boots. Instead, it was unseasonably warm across Sicily. We sat down for lunch as a crater pumped out billowing white puffs in the distance, our jackets off, the sun blazing. Up next, the final stop: one of Etna's four main craters, at more than 10,000 feet above sea level.

In some parts, the crater rim narrowed to the width of two footsteps side by side, on loose lava pebbles. The winds whipped the smell of sulfur away. I could see the clouds off in the distance, a white blanket over the valley. Above me, the sun beat down from a bright blue sky. The black lava rocks absorbed the light, but the white snow was blinding. For a brief moment, I grew disoriented. I felt like I could walk out onto the blanket of clouds, thousands of feet above sea level. Maybe it was the combination of altitude, sulfur, and adrenaline, but I felt briefly euphoric in this otherworldly atmosphere. In that moment, I realized Etna's pull. I brought myself back to earth by looking down into the crater, the bottom of which was so deep it wasn't visible. Halfway around the crater, a dizzyingly steep drop appeared. With a flourish, Vincenzo appeared to hop off the ledge. Was my guide supposed to jump off? Would I be stuck in Etna's clutches forever?

The descent was arguably more challenging than the climb. Vincenzo took off, hopping down the steep drop of loose lava pebbles. Others followed suit. Unwilling to body surf down thousands of jagged little rocks, I attempted to switchback. My boots sank deep into the ground with each sideways step, as if I had attempted to walk across a ball pit. I felt my shoes fill with lava rocks. Time to throw caution to the wind. Hiking poles in hand, I "skied" down Mount Etna, sending mini avalanches of lava rocks flying with each skip. The lava rocks felt springy at that speed.

Once we arrived at the cable car, the world changed. We had come back down through the clouds, and everything was gray. The seaside views were gone, covered by fog. I tried to catch one last glimpse of Etna from below. She was gone, off in her own world.

Know before you go

Getting there.

Sicily has two major airports: Palermo Airport (Falcone Borsellino Airport) on the west side and Catania Airport (Vincenzo Bellini Airport) on the east. Catania is about an hour from Mount Etna and Palermo about three.

Where to stay

The town of Nicolosi is the gateway to the southern entrance of Mount Etna.

Hotel Alle Pendici is a nine-room B&B dotted with framed photos of Mount Etna throughout the seasons. The rooms are basic but cozy with a ski chalet ambience.

Blanc Maison Etna is a five-room B&B next to a beautifully manicured park. The rooms have views of the pool, the garden, or the volcano.

Tour operators we love

The Society of Guides Vulcanologiche Etna Nord offers a variety of tours with licensed volcano guides, including ours, Vincenzo.