tours of italy may 2024

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Italy Tours in May 2024

• May '24
• Jun '24
• Jul '24
• Aug '24
• Sep '24
• Oct '24
• Nov '24
• Dec '24
• Jan '25
• Feb '25
• Mar '25
• Apr '25

250+ Italy trips in May 2024

• Christmas & New Year

The Italian Dream

Our tour guide Nancy had a very heavy accent. Quite difficult to understand. And difficult to communicate clearly. Other than that the trip was amazing. Plenty of time to explore on our own and excellent guidance to make the most of our time in each location.

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Italy from North to South

I would recommend it to my friends.

UNESCO Jewels: Best of Italy - Rome, Florence, Venice in 8 days

Clara is an amazing tour guide, very knowledgeable and informative. This was our first time going on a tour so we were not sure what to expect. Needless to say we are hooked. Big shout out to giggi our driver as well, he made me feel safe throughout our journey. I would definetly recommend to other travelers and we look forward to our next adventure.

Discover Italy end Milan

Day in firenze was the best and the best tour guide of all Emilio. Will be going back for sure. Over all it was fun and great experience.

• Train & Rail
• Sightseeing

Highlights of Italy

Nice trip, our group leader (Lorenzo) knows many good local restaurants, and took good care of everyone. The itinerary is just perfect, not too fast nor slow, we have ample time to explore each city.

• Local Living

Local Living Italy—Sorrento

I was a wonderful tour. We had a guided Tour in Naples, Pompei and a wonderful hike, garnished with interessting facts about history and the people living there. The family at the lemon farm was great and the food provided was really yummy. Luigi gave us a little tour around the property andbecame my personal hero, when he demonstrated how to make limoncello. Chiara was a very helpful and lovely guide. We already miss her :-)

Best of Italy (Summer, 13 Days)

The tour was great. You see a lot of Italy. Lots of site seeing and the food was amazing.

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

Italian Discovery

Great way to see a large part of Italy. Very well organized and run.

Italy City Break - 5 Days

Rosella the best tour guide ever well put together

Discover Italy

It was overall a great trip!

• Food & Culinary

Discover Matera and Taste of Salento Tour

Best decision I've ever made. On the masseria on the country side you will be surrounded by a lovely family running the restaurant making sure you will experience the local life, la dolce vita. The food was the best I've ever tasted. Fresh, simple (almost no additional ingredients!) comfort food and very very tastful. Lots of raw fish, fresh pasta, cheeses, cold meat, good olive oil and complementing wine. The chef Emilio is very modest but he's a star really. They make you feel like you're their guest at home, I felt so welcome and as if I was part of the family/a friend. So warm. When you book the tour (I really recommend this!!) with overnight stay, the group will be no more than 4 persons (nice and cozy!), I was a solo traveller and stayed together with another woman. Every day the family (mostly Clara, lady of the house) drove us places (nature, beaches, cities, churches, you name it) to experience the local life and to see all the Salento treasures. The program is very flexible, they discuss the program day by day, as you wish. Very pleasant and also a good combination of trips and free time. Really everything was taken care of, total relaxation, felt like a queen but as if it was my own family/friends taking care of me. There are so many things I would like to say to compliment them, I truly recommend this place. I am home for 2 weeks now and I genuinely miss them. After that I stayed at Matera for 3 days in a very nice hotel and had some private city tours with a very pleasant tour gide. Matera is truly enchanting, such a romantic and historical city. The view is stunning, and the (enormous) hotel room actually inside the Sassi is quite an experience! Breakfast at the hotel was really luxurious and dinner outside the hotel every day was also luxurious, you are really taken care of. The food/wine tasting was also delicious and the people were so nice and generous! I really enjoyed these last days, the accommodation was really luxurious and there is lots to see in the Sassi area of Matera. All in all it was a very balanced tour. I booked my tour at Salento Travel (Omar), he was really helpful during booking this tour, kind, always quick with responding and also very flexible. Asked for a late airport transfer on the way back as I had a night flight. No problem at all and I had the best car and driver I could wish for. I really recommend this trip, you won’t regret it!

Small Group Sicily Food & Wine Tour (Maximum 8 Guests)

Well organized tour with plenty of down time to stroll and explore the towns. Graziana was wonderful in letting us know the scheduled events/times. The guides were very knowledgeable and enjoyable. Highly recommend this company. Loved Sicily!

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

UNESCO Jewels: Best of Italy - Rome, Florence, Venice in 5 days

Was a great tour of so many cities. Would have liked a more detail itinerary at the beginning of the tour.

New Tour of Sicily from Palermo 10 Days

Viva Sicilia, excellent

Deluxe Italian Escape with picturesque Cinque Terre

We had a more custom version, which was made easy to plan and even better to experience. We got to see Venice, Rome and Vico Equense. From accommodations to transport to activities, all the details were covered. They were also available at all times to help with anything that came up. Great anniversary trip!

What people love about Italy Tours in May

Tour really amizing, the driver and tour guid, food and location was very good, but a first day and last day hotel accomodation is not good very small shower, the bed is like rocking, the last tour scheduled from vasilica to collesium there no travelling car and is not good for us to take a taxi by our own and some a taxi driver is not honest.

What a fabulous day! Met at meeting place by Annalisa and John, (A.K.A James Bond.) Great tour guides and very professional. Safe driver. Stopped in Naples to view Mt Vesuvius and then on to a scrumptious lunch. Picked up Sacha along the way, who took us around Pompei ruins and was a brilliant guide. Was very knowledgeable and made Pompei come to life! Thoroughly recommend I Love Rome tours.

Destinations

• South Italy May 2024 (300)
• Northern Italy May 2024 (152)
• Central Italy May 2024 (151)
• Campania May 2024 (121)
• Amalfi Coast May 2024 (116)
• Tuscany May 2024 (98)
• Puglia May 2024 (54)
• Apulia May 2024 (44)
• Trentino Alto-Adige May 2024 (33)
• Veneto May 2024 (20)
• Lombardy May 2024 (20)
• South Tyrol May 2024 (18)
• Emilia Romagna May 2024 (17)
• Umbria May 2024 (13)
• Lazio, Marche & Abruzzo May 2024 (13)
• Piedmont May 2024 (11)
• Liguria May 2024 (11)
• Cinque Terre May 2024 (10)
• Via Francigena May 2024 (10)
• Adriatic May 2024 (4)
• Sicily May 2024 (99)
• Sardinia May 2024 (11)
• Alps May 2024 (62)
• Italian Alps May 2024 (57)
• The Dolomites May 2024 (14)
• Italian Lakes District May 2024 (30)
• Italy & Switzerland Lakes May 2024 (4)

Regions in Italy

• South Italy (300)
• Northern Italy (152)
• Central Italy (151)
• Campania (121)
• Amalfi Coast (116)
• Tuscany (98)
• Puglia (54)
• Apulia (44)
• Trentino Alto-Adige (33)
• Veneto (20)
• Lombardy (20)
• South Tyrol (18)
• Emilia Romagna (17)
• Umbria (13)
• Lazio, Marche & Abruzzo (13)
• Piedmont (11)
• Spring 2024 tours (617)
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• Fall / Autumn 2024 tours (1096)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 tours (245)
• Spring 2025 tours (399)
• Summer 2025 tours (308)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 tours (319)
• Winter 2025 / 2026 tours (95)
• 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?

Italy Tours in May 2024

• Start Date Select Month May 2024 June 2024 July 2024 August 2024 September 2024 October 2024 November 2024 December 2024 January 2025 February 2025 March 2025 April 2025 May 2025 June 2025 July 2025 August 2025 September 2025 October 2025 November 2025 December 2025 January 2026 February 2026 March 2026 April 2026 May 2026 OR, More specific start
• Easy Active
• Challenging
• Barge Cruising
• Food & Wine
• Most Popular
• Private Yacht Charter
• River Cruises
• Scheduled Group Tour
• Adventure Options
• Archaeological Site Visits
• Cooking Classes
• Land & Sea Exploration
• Local Market Visits
• Scuba Diving
• Small Ship Cruises
• Small Ship Sailing
• Urban Exploration
• Village Visits
• Wilderness Lodge Exploration
• Wildlife Viewing
• Wine Tasting
• Emerald Azzurra
• Emerald Sakara
• La Bella Vita
• Le Bougainville
• Le Dumont-d'Urville
• MS Michelangelo
• Royal Clipper
• Scenic Eclipse
• Sea Cloud II
• Silver Whisper
• Star Clipper
• World Navigator
• World Traveller

Classic Italy

• Ride the gondola in Venetian canals
• Discover the Sistine Chapel
• Explore the Vatican Museums
• Marvel at the architecture in Siena
• Savor authentic Tuscan cuisine
• Enjoy the Tuscan countryside

Corsica & Sardinia

• Discover Cagliari
• Visit Nuraghe Losa
• Enjoy the medieval city of Alghero
• Admire Bonifacio's unique views

Turin, Langhe, and Cinque Terre

• Explore the city of Turin
• Visit the city's main squares
• Discover the wine region of Barolo
• Taste local wine and cheese
• Experience truffle hunting
• Walk in Quadrilatero Romano
• Admire Cinque Terre
• Swim in the Italian Riviera
• See the picturesque Santa Margherit

Mount Blanc Hiking Adventure

• Enjoy the view of Chamonix
• Hike the Mont Blanc
• Admire the Bioniassay glacier
• Explore Courmayeur Alpine resort
• Hike the old trail valley in Trient

Aeolian Archipelago

• Discover Lipari and Salina
• Visit a local winery
• Enjoy a scenic hike in Vulcano
• Swim in Cala Junco nature reserve
• Take a walking tour in Stromboli
• Relax on the beaches of Salina

Dolomites Hiking Adventure

• Visit Pesaris' historic center
• Hike the Mount Coglians
• Visit a local harpsichord maker
• Discover Cortina's mountain scenery
• Hike the spectacular Tre Cime
• Visit a local dairy
• Enjoy the culture of Bolzano
• Tour Venice's Grand Canal by boat

Venice Extension

• See monuments and famous churches
• Visit Mazzorbo's vineyards
• Create your own carnival mask
• Explore famous squares and canals

Classic Dolomites Premium Adventure

• Enjoy hiking in the Dolomites
• See the charming town of Villabassa
• Visit Monte Piana's open-air museum
• Climb up towards Strudelkopf

Treasures of Sicily

• Visit the Island of Sicily
• Discover the Valley of the Temples
• Visit Taormina's ancient ruins
• See the Mount Etna in Sicily
• Explore the coastal town of Cefalu
• Visit Syracuse's Archeological Park
• Discover the Zingaro Nature Reserve

Highlights of the Amalfi Coast

• Admire the Amalfi Coastline
• Explore Positano on foot
• Visit Herculaneum and Pompeii
• Ride a boat to the island of Capri
• Walk the Path of the Gods
• Explore the village of Ravello

Rome, Assisi & Magical Umbria Premium Adventure

• Visit Roman ruins with a guide
• Visit the Umbrian countryside
• Visit the historic town of Assisi
• Visit local wineries in Montefalco
• Enjoy cooking local Italian dishes.

Hidden Gems of Piedmont

• Visit the wine region of Piedmont
• Admire the village of Neive

Dolomites Explorer

• Visit Bozen's main local attraction
• Hike the Parco del Respiro
• Visit the Abbey of Novacella
• Cable car ride to Castelrotto

Lake Como, Milan, and Amalfi

• Ride a boat on Lake Como
• Explore the village of Varenna
• Visit Piona Abbey in Colico
• See the Gothic Art in Milan
• Visit the Duomo di Milano
• Stroll around in Galleria Vittorio
• See archaeological sites in Pompeii
• Admire the coastline of Amalfi
• Enjoy scenic drives in Italy

Amalfi & Sicily

• Gaze upon the Sistine Chapel
• Visit the volcanic Aeolian Islands
• Visit historical Pompeii
• Wander through the town of Ponza

Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba – with Smithsonian Journeys

• Discover Mediterranean islands
• Experience ancient ruins
• Admire Byzantine-Arab mosaics
• Explore medieval towns
• Discover local cuisine

Rome Extension

• Admire Michelangelo's masterpiece
• Visit Roman ruins and monuments
• See the Colosseum Belvedere

Historic Monaco Grand Prix Finals

• Explore Bonifacio
• Enjoy Portoferraio's vineyards
• View Monaco's emblematic spots
• Celebrate Cannes Film Festival
• Observe prehistoric engraved stones

Top Italy Travel Destinations

• Adriatic Sea
• Civitavecchia
• Mediterranean
• Portoferraio

Italy Trips by Departure Date

• 2024 Italy trips (88)
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• July 2024 (33)
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• September 2024 (27)
• October 2024 (22)
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• Italy Scheduled Group Tour (4)
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• Italy Most Popular (3)

Italy Trips by Duration

• 7 day trips (5)
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• 10 day trips (13)
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• 12 day trips (10)
• 15 day trips (4)

Italy Trips by Activity

• Italy small ship cruises (79)
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Tours and Trip Packages to Italy in May 2024

Traveling to Italy in May 2024? We offer 451 tours, trips and vacation packages to Italy in May 2024. Our Italy in May 2024 tour packages and trips have 1812 customer reviews. All the Italy May 2024 tour packages and trips are carried out by hand-picked, qualified local and international Italy tour operators.

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+300 Trips in Italy during May 2024

• 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
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,120
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 530
• Total Price from: US$ 1,590
• May 22 Only 7 seats left
• May 25 Only 5 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Starts Naples, Italy
• Ends Bomerano, Italy

Highlights of the Amalfi Coast

• Activities Food tours & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Accommodation Hotel & Villa
• Transport Boat, Bus & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,173
• Special Deal (14%): - US$ 298
• Total Price from: US$ 1,875
• May 18 Only 1 seat left
• May 25 Only 2 seats left

• Starts Rome, Italy
• Ends Venice, Italy

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
• Transport Boat, Train, Bus, Private Vehicle & Ferry
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,675
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 699
• Total Price from: US$ 3,976
• May 23 Only 5 seats left
• May 27 Only 6 seats left

• Ends Florence, Italy

Gems Of Rome & Florence

• Activities Art and architecture & Food tours
• Transport Train & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 10-99 yrs
• Operated in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,462
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 219
• Total Price from: US$ 1,243
• May 28 10+ seats left
• May 29 10+ seats left

Italian Discovery

• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Explorer
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Bus, Coach, Boat & Ferry
• Age Range 6-80 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,616
• Special Deal (6%): - US$ 157
• Total Price from: US$ 2,459
• May 26 10+ seats left

• 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
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,970
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 594
• Total Price from: US$ 2,376
• May 26 Only 6 seats left
• May 29 Only 6 seats left

• Starts Alberobello, Italy
• Ends Matera, Italy

Walking in Puglia & Matera

• Activities Trekking and Hiking & Countryside and village visits Trekking and Hiking , Countryside and village visits , Farm and plantation visits , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='7854'>+3 more
• Transport Train, Bus & Private Vehicle
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,167
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 327
• Total Price from: US$ 1,840

Trending Destinations in Italy

• Starts Moneglia, Italy
• Ends Moneglia, Italy

Walks of the Cinque Terre and Portofino

• Activities Trekking and Hiking & Walking tours
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,248
• Special Deal (21%): - US$ 478
• Total Price from: US$ 1,770
• May 25 Only 8 seats left

Delve Deep: Italy

• Transport Boat, Bus, Ferry & Train
• Age Range 18-39 yrs
• May 19 Only 3 seats left

• Starts Tuscany, Italy
• Ends Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany Walks & Chianti Wines

• Activities Trekking and Hiking & Food tours
• Transport Train
• Age Range 18-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,617
• Special Deal (14%): - US$ 372
• Total Price from: US$ 2,245

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture & Museum and gallery visits 'data-more-tripid='23409'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Villa & Resort
• Transport Coach, Ferry & Boat
• Age Range 5-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,850
• Special Deal (12%): - US$ 457
• Total Price from: US$ 3,393

• Starts Lucca, Italy
• Ends Lucca, Italy

Walking in Tuscany

• Activities Trekking and Hiking
• Accommodation Villa
• Transport Bus, Train, Minibus & Taxi
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,098
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 208
• Total Price from: US$ 1,890
• May 18 Only 6 seats left

• Starts Acireale, Italy
• Ends Taormina, Italy

Treasures of Sicily

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Transport Bus
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,848
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 418
• Total Price from: US$ 2,430
• May 18 Only 2 seats left

Italian Holiday

• Activities City sightseeing & Museum and gallery visits City sightseeing , Museum and gallery visits , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Cruise & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='20900'>+3 more
• Transport Coach
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,025
• Special Deal (16%): - US$ 330
• Total Price from: US$ 1,695
• May 24 10+ seats left

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Popular Destinations

• Amalfi Coast & Campania Tours
• Catania Tours
• Chianti Tours
• Cinque Terre and Liguria Tours
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• Trentino-South Tyrol Tours
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Popular Activities

• Art and architecture tours
• Bicycle tours
• City sightseeing tours
• Countryside and village visits 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

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• Spring 2024/2025
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Italy Tours & Vacations

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

Italy may be one of Europe 's most-visited countries, but finding your way around Venice’s canals, choosing the best place for gelato in Rome, and knowing your agnello from your agnolotti are skills best learned from locals. Our Italy tours & vacations are all about strolling down cobbled lanes in city backstreets and ancient walled villages in search of la dolce vita. Once here, the opportunities are endless – from tasting balsamic vinegar in a traditional acetaia in Modena and sailing past pastel-hued cliffside villages on the Amalfi Coast , to sampling local wine in Tuscany's vineyards  and admiring lesser-known Renaissance art in Florence . One thing's for sure: you won’t be going hungry.

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Italy at a glance, capital city.

Rome (population approximately 2.87 million)

Approximately 59 million

(GMT+01:00) Amsterdam, Berlin, Bern, Rome, Stockholm, Vienna

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

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

Learn more about Italy

Culture and customs.

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

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

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

History and government

Rise of the empire.

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

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

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

The Renaissance

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

People in protest

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

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

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

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

Top places to visit in Italy

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

2. Cinque Terre

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

3. Amalfi Coast

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

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

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

6. Taormina

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

Eating and drinking

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

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

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

Must try dishes and drinks in Italy

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

Read more about what to eat in Italy

Read more about what to drink in Italy

Geography and environment

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

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

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

8 iconic Italian landscapes

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

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

Things to buy

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

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

Top Italian events and festivals 

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

1. Regata Storica di Venezia (Venice Historical Regatta)

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

2. Natale di Roma (Rome’s Birthday Celebrations)

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

3. Pasqua (Easter)

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

5. Carnevale

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

6. Verona Opera Festival

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

Read more about festivals in Italy

Further reading

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

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

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Italy travel FAQs

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

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

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

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

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

Do you need a visa for Italy?

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

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

Last updated: 06/06/2023

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

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

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

Is tipping customary in Italy?

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

What is the internet access like in Italy?

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

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

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

Can I use my cell phone while in Italy?

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

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

What are the toilets like in Italy?

Western-style flushable toilets are the norm in Italy.

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

What will it cost for a…?

Italy’s unit of currency is the euro (EUR). Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

• Cup of coffee = EUR € 1.50
• Small gelato cone = EUR € 2-3
• A glass of beer = EUR € 4-5
• Bottle of wine in a restaurant = EUR € 10
• Mid-range meal at a restaurant = EUR € 30-40

Can I drink the water in Italy?

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

Are credit cards accepted widely in Italy?

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

What is ATM access like in Italy?

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

What public holidays are celebrated in Italy?

• 1 Jan: New Year’s Day (Capodanno)
• 6 Jan: Epiphany (Epifania)
• *Mar/Apr: Easter Sunday (Pasqua)
• *Mar/Apr: Easter Monday (Pasquetta)
• 25 Apr: Liberation Day (Giorno della Liberazione)
• 1 May: Labour Day (Festa del Lavoro)
• 2 Jun: Republic Day (Festa della Repubblica)
• 15 Aug: Feast of the Assumption (Ferragosto)
• 1 Nov: All Saint’s Day (Festa di Ognisanti)
• 8 Dec: Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Festa dell’Immacolata Concezione)
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day (Natale)
• 26 Dec: St Stephen’s Day (Festa di Santo Stefano)

Please note, Italy public holidays may vary.

Is Italy safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

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

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

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

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

When is the best time to visit Italy?

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

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

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

What is the weather like in Italy?

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

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

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

What to pack for Italy?

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

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

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

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

Read more about weather in Italy

Is Italy accessible for travellers with disabilities?

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

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

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

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

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

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

What kind of accommodation will I be staying in?

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

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

Agriturismo (farmstay)

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

How will I be traveling around Italy?

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

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

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

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

Does my trip to Italy support The Intrepid Foundation?

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

Cooperativa Coraggio

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

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

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

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

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

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

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Ciao Bella Italia!

Whether it’s old-world traditions and wonderful culture, cuisine, history, fashion or natural beauty, Italy is special to many people for different reasons. Few other countries boast so many legendary cities. There are also many charming hill towns and coastal villages that showcase Italy’s amazing natural beauty. From the big cities to the small towns, there is always something exciting to see in Italy. With so many reasons to visit, the rest is up to you!

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Destination must-see's.

Cinque Terre:

Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage site, which means that it is a valuable and protected place on earth. Feel like you have stepped back in time when you visit this collection of colorful medieval villages sitting high on the edge of the sea.

Visit a place that was frozen in time in the summer of A.D. 79. Soak in 2,000 years of history at the excavated ruins of Pompeii as a local expert provides you with a detailed view of this incredibly preserved archaeological site.

The Colosseum is the largest amphitheater ever built and perhaps one of the most recognizable places on the planet. It sits right in the center of Rome and was constructed by emperors of the Flavian dynasty. Imagine being there in its day!

Go off the beaten path to see the Castello Sestiere area with a local guide and get to know authentic Venice. You’ll be able to walk canal by canal through streets lined with historic buildings and old churches. See how the locals live every day with each step you take in this unique city.

Destination Must-Do's

Get a Taste of Sicilian Street Food:

Each region of Italy has its own dishes of renown, and Sicily has a rich street food culture. Chickpea fritters (panelle), fried potato croquettes (crocchè) fried risotto balls (arancine/arancini), and cannoli are just some of the items you may find while sampling the local fare.

Tour Lucca:

The fascinating medieval city of Lucca is surrounded by 16th-century Renaissance walls. Choose to see it by bike or on foot, but either way will bring you to see the Cathedral of San Martino, the Piazza Napoleone and the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, all sites you simply should not miss.

Visit Capri:

On a beautiful day, take a boat trip from the stunning Amalfi Coast to the lovely Mediterranean island of Capri. There, a local expert will bring you on a tour of a dreamy place that can only be described as paradise on earth.

Drink wine:

Just about anywhere you go in Italy, you’re going to encounter fantastic wine. Whether you’re in Tuscany, Stresa, Piedmont, Umbria or any other region of this beautiful country, taste the wine. Buy a few bottles and bring it home to enjoy with friends and family.

Expert Advice

Some of what you think of as traditional Italian foods are actually American interpretations and not widely available there. Some examples are heavy cream sauces such as alfredo, spaghetti and meatballs, and chicken parmigiana (however, you may find these items in more tourist-oriented restaurants).

Featured Tours to Italy

Southern Italy & Sicily featuring Taormina, Matera and the Amalfi Coast

Italian Vistas

Italy's Treasures Art, Food & Wine of Italy

Best of Italy

Shrines of Italy

Rome & the Amalfi Coast

Reflections of Italy

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Italy tours discovery guide

Captivating, complicated, born and reborn for millennia—Italy continues to inspire artists and beguile travelers. Follow your heart to the rolling Tuscan hillside dotted with cypress trees, listen to the water lap Venetian canals, and succumb to the romance of Rome.

4.7 out of 5 stars

4.8 out of 5 stars

What to know before you go

Italy’s 59 million residents are joined by nearly as many yearly visitors—it’s the fifth most visited country in the world.

Rome—known as the Eternal City—is older than Italy itself, predating the country by 2,600 years.

With more than 162,000 coffee bars to choose from, Italians cherish their daily coffee fix. To avoid riling up the locals, remember that you can enjoy an espresso any time but cappuccinos are exclusively ordered in the morning.

Sumptuous art and architecture, bucolic village piazzas, and a rapidly melting pistachio gelato.

ITALY BESTSELLER

See it all on our Grand Tour

Florence, rome, and venice—and smaller treasures along the way. it’s our most popular tour for a reason., venice, florence & rome: three iconic cities—three ways to see them, the stay a little longer, slow down to savor the romance and relics of italy, the small but mighty, short on time live la dolce vita in one perfect week, the solo, not alone, we’ve got your back—and your future best friends, any time in italy is time well spent. want to make the most of your trip, see italy from amatriciana to ziti.

Piedmont & Tuscany with America’s Test Kitchen

Curated with America’s Test Kitchen, join a truffle hunt, try your hand at chocolate making, and roll your own fresh pasta.

Flavors of Tuscany & Umbria

From handmade pasta simmering in full-bodied sauces to locally produced wines of Chianti, Montalcino, and Montefalco—discover the simple, honest flavors of central Italy.

Want to experience Italy like a local?

Check out our best tips for embracing life as a traveler, not a tourist.

Southern Italy & Sicily

Let the coastal climates and volcanic soils embrace you with a distinct personality punctuated by delicately fragranced almond pastries, cheeses, and robust wines.

Campania, Puglia & the Amalfi Coast

The sole of Italy’s boot beckons you in Naples—birthplace of the Neapolitan pizza—before wooing you with the radiating warmth of fresh focaccia in the Itria Valley.

Put the “I” in Italy

Our solo travelers share their advice for where to go, what to eat, and how to spend your free time while traveling to Italy as a solo traveler on a guided tour .

Signature experiences for your memory vault. Why don’t you...

Cruise Lake Como

For cliffside peeks at luxe estates and gardens. Try it on our Lake Como, the Italian Riviera & Venice tour.

Roll pasta in Rome

For tucking into a plate of fresh, handmade ravioli. Try it on our Journey through Italy: Milan to the Amalfi Coast tour.

Sip limoncello

For a tangy treat from a family-owned lemon farm. Try it on our Naples, Sorrento & Rome tour.

Dig for truffles

Sniff out prized, pungent fungi with a trained hound. Try it on our Food & Wine: Northern Italy & the Italian Riviera tour.

Uncover your Italy travel style

Just like you, Sicily has a personality all its own. Discover hilltop towns like Monreale and Taormina on a tour designed for you to go solo, not alone.

Explore Sicily for Solo Travelers

Winding Venetian canals, the glittering lakeshore, and Cinque Terre’s colorful cliffside reflecting in the Ligurian Sea—bask in Italy’s waterside wonders.

Explore Lake Como, the Italian Riviera & Venice

It doesn’t get much better than a Tuscan to-do list: Bike along cypress-lined city walls, take a stroll through hilltop towns, and cap each meal off with a glass of Chianti.

Explore Tuscany Adventure: Lucca, Siena & Maremma

Step wholeheartedly into the Roman experience and make the Eternal City your home away from home as you mingle with the locals and adopt a cafe for the week.

Explore Rome: The City Experience

What travelers say about our Italy tours

Experiential travel made easy.

You dream it. We’ll take care of every last detail.

We offer 200+ immersive, guided tours around the world. Wherever you choose to go, you’ll enjoy lots of advantages that make traveling with us different.

That’s all it takes to secure a spot on one of our group tours when you sign up for AutoPay . Plus, you can pay in interest-free, monthly installments.

While you’re deciding what to take, we’ll be busy arranging your hotels, meals, tickets, and more tour essentials. That’s what going guided is all about .

Set off on a life-changing, horizon-expanding adventure with peace of mind knowing that we’ve got you covered every step of the way .             

Enjoy Italy—and beyond

If Italy fired up your wanderlust—and we know that feeling—explore tours that complement your sojourn with even more of Europe’s delights.

4.6 out of 5 stars

4.5 out of 5 stars

5 out of 5 stars

Travel tips for Italy tours

One of the best parts about Italy is the diversity within its borders—from the rugged, Alpine beauty of Northern Italy to the laid-back countryside of Tuscany and Umbria, to the cultural capitals of Rome and Florence, to the colorful beaches of the Italian Riviera and the Mediterranean Coast. It’s hard to choose where to go, but, luckily, many of our Italy tour packages cover a few different distinct areas, like Venice, Florence, and Rome, or Florence, Tuscany, and the Italian Riviera.

Our guided tours of Italy span the spectrum, and sometimes it’s best to start with your interests.

• Rome, Florence, or Venice:  If it’s your first time in Italy, you may want to begin with the iconic cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice, where you’ll walk through the Colosseum and other historic sites of the Roman Empire, soak in the art and architecture of the birthplace of the Renaissance, and navigate Venice’s beautiful network of canals.
• Tuscany, Umbria, Northern Italy, or the Italian Riviera. If you’re a foodie, our culinary-themed Italy vacation packages, such as our small-group  Food & Wine: Flavors of Tuscany & Umbria and Food & Wine: Northern Italy & the Italian Riviera  tours, are perfect for you.
• Rome or Pompeii. If you’re a history buff, Italy tours that include Rome or Pompeii are the best place to start.
• Cinque Terre or Amalfi Coast. For those who are all about sunshine and nature, you’ll love itineraries that include Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast.
• Florence, Milan, Siena, Alberobello, or Venice . Art lovers should consider a trip that includes Florence (for the Renaissance masterpieces), Milan and Siena (for their showstopping cathedrals), and Alberobello and Venice (for Alberobello’s traditional stone huts and Venice’s blown glass).

While summer is often the most common time to visit, it’s also the hottest and most crowded, so we recommend taking one of our guided trips to Italy in the off-season. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures for sightseeing. You’ll also enjoy smaller crowds, great prices, and seasonal extras, like spring flowers and fall festivals.

Rural areas in Italy’s beloved wine country are particularly beautiful in the fall, when the year’s harvest occurs, usually in October and November. On one of our escorted tours of Italy during this time, you’ll find some of the country’s most flavorful produce, like truffles, chestnuts, grapes, mushrooms, and eggplant. It’s a wonderful time to shop local markets, visit vineyards, and get a feel for daily life during this flavorful season.

If you’re looking to visit Rome or other parts of Southern Italy, winter is also a great time to plan a trip, when the crowds are much smaller at the main attractions like the Colosseum and the Vatican, and the temperatures are cool yet still comfortable for exploring. If this sounds right for you, check out our  Rome: The City Experience  or  Sicily: A Cultural Journey  tours.

In a country bursting with must-see attractions, it would be easier to ask, “Where not to go?” But here’s a short list of the most compelling places to visit in Italy:

• The Colosseum. This marvel of ancient Roman engineering is over 1,900 years old, and a visit inside its 157-foot walls is like flipping back the pages of history.
• The Pantheon. Remarkable for its size and design, the Pantheon has survived in its original form and is the best-preserved ancient Roman monument.
• The Duomo. This legendary Florence cathedral was the world’s largest when it opened in 1436. The Duomo is famous for its Renaissance masterworks and its massive octagonal dome.
• The Roman Forum. Once the setting of parades, elections, and trials, the ruins of the Forum give a glimpse of everyday life in ancient Rome.
• The Leaning Tower of Pisa. Even though its famous lean began during its construction, this medieval bell tower was considered an engineering marvel of its time.
• St. Mark’s Basilica. One of the world’s most iconic travel destinations, St. Mark’s Basilica was Venice’s religious heart centuries ago. A visit to the basilica and the square it’s located in is an absolute must.
• Vatican City. Steeped in tradition, history, and even a bit of mystery, Vatican City—the seat of the Catholic Church—is the most-visited spot in Rome. The tiny city-state is home to the breathtaking St. Peter’s Basilica, world-renowned museums, manicured gardens, and the Sistine Chapel.
• Pompeii. Experience history preserved. The Roman city of Pompeii was famously covered in ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 A.D. The deep layer of ash preserved structures and objects frozen in time.

In a country with a rich history and culture, there are many popular activities to experience on our trips to Italy. Some of the most popular activities include:

• Visiting historical sites. Italy is home to countless historical sites, such as the Colosseum in Rome, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the ancient city of Pompeii.
• Exploring the countryside. Italy’s beautiful countryside, with rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves, makes it a pleasure to discover.
• Enjoying the food. Famous for its delicious dishes, Italy will please your palate from Piedmont to Sicily. Wine and food-tasting excursions on our trips allow you to sample the best of Italian food and wine. Check out our food lover’s guide to Italy for six of the top culinary moments to experience in Italy.
• Visiting museums and galleries. You don’t need to be a history buff or art lover to enjoy the magnificent art and rich history that Italy is steeped in. From the papal treasures of the Vatican Museums to the masterworks of the Uffizi Gallery, Italy is home to some of the world’s most incredible art and historical collections. Check out our Art Lover’s Guide to Italy and our History Lover’s Guide to Italy .
• Shopping. Italy is also a shopper’s paradise, with everything from designer clothes to handmade souvenirs. If you love luxury brands, specialty boutiques, or great deals from street vendors, you’ll find it all on our tours to Italy.
• Enjoying outdoor activities. No need to spend all your time sightseeing. Outdoor activities, like hiking, cycling, and skiing, are also popular, depending on the season.
• Relaxing on the beach. Italy has long coastlines with beautiful beaches to relax on.

With its millennia-spanning history, mouthwatering regional cuisine, and countless artistic treasures, it’s no wonder Italy consistently ranks at the top of travelers’ wish lists. The country offers so much ancient history and delicious food and is home to countless artistic treasures. Italy offers experiences you can’t have anywhere else. Some activities you can experience on our Italy tours include:

• Taking a gondola ride in Venice
• Visiting Vatican City in Rome
• Watching the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo in Florence
• Exploring the colorful villages of Cinque Terre
• Eating homemade pasta in the tiny village of Noto
• Taking a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Italian dishes
• Staying overnight at an Italian agriturismo
• Hunting for truffles

We recommend you spend at least six days in Italy. While our most popular Italy tours run nine days or more, you can enjoy a shorter trip if you limit your tour to one or two cities in the same region.

Yes. We visit many of Italy’s most famous wine regions, including Tuscany, Umbria, Campania, Puglia, Sicily, and Piedmont.

If exploring the wines of Italy is high on your list of to-dos, we offer a number of Food & Wine tours to different regions of Italy.

Learn about our top five Italian wineries to check off your bucket list →

Italy has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers. However, the weather can vary greatly depending on the region and time of year, so checking the forecast before traveling on any of our Italy tour packages is essential.

Pull up a seat at any table in Italy and you’re guaranteed to be greeted by the same thing: a dish made with equal parts local ingredients and love. In Italy, a homemade meal is synonymous with a warm welcome, and time-honored cooking traditions allow seasonal flavors to shine.

In general, as you travel from north to south, the cuisine and flavors get lighter. In Northern Italy, where there are more pastures and livestock, you’ll find flavorful meats, rich pastas, and bold wines. In Southern Italy, you’ll feel the influence of the Mediterranean in dishes that feature lots of fish, vegetables, citrus, and olives.

Here are some of the best Italian dishes:

• Pizza . Naples, the place to get a classic pie, serves up a pure and simple version with just tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and olive oil.
• Seafood . Liguria, a region better known as the Italian Riviera, is known for all kinds of fresh-from-the-sea specialties, particularly anchovies, mussels, and a mixed seafood stew called ciuppin.
• Pesto . Another favorite from the Italian Riviera, this vibrant sauce is often served on pasta alongside seafood or fresh veggies, like zucchini.
• Tagliatelle Bolognese . Bologna, where recipes have been passed down from generation to generation, is the birthplace of this all-time favorite dish. It features wide noodles topped with a sauce of ground meat.
• Olive oil. When it comes to the places where you’ll find the best olive oil, it’s a toss-up between Tuscany, where you’ll find delicious peppery olive oil, and Puglia, the country’s olive oil capital.
• Arancini . Sicily is the home of these fried rice-and-cheese balls, but you can find them throughout most of Southern Italy, filled with a variety of delicious stuffings.

For tips on using the euro while on a trip to Italy, check out our blog post about currency exchange →

Italian is the most widely spoken language in Italy. However, English is widely used in popular areas. That said, knowing some key phrases is always useful. It will help you find your way around and show locals that you’re interested in learning about their culture.

Here are some key Italian phrases to know before you go →

• Punctuality . Italians value punctuality, so arriving on time for appointments and meetings is important.
• Greeting people. Greeting people with a handshake or kiss on the cheek is customary.
• Dining out. Eating in Italy is an art form. It’s considered rude to ask for substitutions or not to finish your meal. And when it comes to spaghetti, roll it on a fork. Don’t eat spaghetti with a spoon or use a knife to cut it.  And don’t order an espresso with your meal. Save the coffee until after you’re finished eating. 
• Remove your hat . It’s a well-established tradition in Italy to remove your hat when you enter a church. The same goes for entering restaurants and cafes.
• Leave your shorts in your suitcase.  Few Italians wear shorts in the city. Dressing well is important, especially in the cities.

Read more about how to experience Italy like a local →

We recommend packing light for your trip to Italy. One suitcase and one carry-on per person is a good guideline to follow; you should feel comfortable managing your baggage at the airport. After you’ve booked one of our Italy tour packages, we’ll give you information about how to prepare for your particular trip and even share a packing list in our mobile app.

• Sun protection. For all our trips, especially during the summer months in Italy, we recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect your face and the back of your neck from the sun.
• Layers. For tours of Italy, we recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• Comfortable walking shoes. Since you’ll be exploring new destinations with local guides, a comfortable pair of walking shoes is essential to have with you. Italy is famous for its fashionable footwear, but it’s also known for its cobblestone streets and steps. So, while you may be tempted to dress as fashionably as the locals, we recommend erring on the side of comfort to save yourself from blisters.
• Dressier attire. You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• Full-coverage layers for religious sites. It is preferable not to visit churches, temples, or other religious sites with bare legs or shoulders, and staff at these sites may deny entrance on this basis.
• A travel adapter.  A plug adapter is one of the most essential things to buy before going to Italy. Italy uses three plug types: C, F, and L. Type C plugs have two round pins, type F have two round pins with clips on the top and bottom, and type L have three round pins in a row. Most hotel rooms have a mixture of type F (used throughout Europe) and L (Italy only), but know that you can use a type F in a type C outlet and type C in a type L outlet (that’s a lot to remember, we know). As long as you have one of these power adapters, you’ll be absolutely fine.
• A small day bag.  Many churches and museums will not allow you to bring in large backpacks for security purposes—you’ll need to check them at the door. However, you can wear a small day bag on your front, like a cross-body travel bag or stylish mini backpack.
• An RFID money belt or wallet.  Italy’s city streets can get busy, and like in any country with many tourists, you’ll want to be wary of pickpockets. Radio-frequency identification (RFID) can protect your credit card info from electronic theft, and a money belt will conceal your cash without ruining your outfit.
• A portable charger.  As you float along Venice’s canals, take in the Renaissance mastery of Florence, or walk along ancient streets in Rome, you’ll snap many  gorgeous photos of Italy . That means you’ll need a phone battery that can keep up. Pack a small portable charger, and you won’t have to worry!
• A reusable water bottle.  This isn’t just one of our  eco-friendly travel essentials . It’ll also save you money. Italy’s tap water is safe to drink, and you can fill your bottle with fresh, cold water at Roman aqueducts built thousands of years ago—so it’s an authentic experience, too. Just try not to ask bar or restaurant staff to refill it for you, as this isn’t common practice in Italy.

• EXPERIENCE ITALY – MAY 2024
• JOURNEY BEYOND ITALY – MAY 2024
• DISCOVER GREECE – JUNE 2024
• LUX OF ITALY – FERRARI CLUB TRIP
• DISCOVER GREECE – SEPT 2-14, 2024
• DISCOVER GREECE – SEPT 15-27, 2024
• REVIEWS / FAQs

ABOUT THIS TOUR

May 4 – may 17, 2024.

Spots Left: Full Join 2025 Waitlist: (Click Here)

Experience Italy! On this special journey through Northern Italy, you will experience the true magic of the Italian culture and people, eat amazing food, drink incredible wine, capture stunning images, and explore the greatest cities that will take your breath away at every turn. Go way-beyond what most tourist ever experience, and discover the “True Italy” – tasting and understanding the local cuisine, living the Italian lifestyle, and discovering the art and history that is over 2,000 years in the making. This is a unique opportunity to be led by Adam DeSerio, Italian-American guide and photographer, with a rich local knowledge and deep cultural understanding and passion for all that Italy has to offer. What makes this trip especially unique is the intimate size and nature of this Italian experience (Exclusive Group Size: Limited to 10 people max.). All aspects of the tour have been carefully thought out, planned, and curated specifically so you can just arrive and enjoy the journey without needing to plan a thing. Adam has led tours in Italy for years and speaks the language, providing you something very special compared to other tours. Dine at the best local restaurants with recommendations of specific dishes to taste, as well as learn some photo tips and gain valuable travel skills along the way.

We begin in Venice, exploring beautiful canals by Gondola, and taking in the ancient architecture and story of this unique city. Explore the magic and discover the secrets of one of the most romantic cities in the world. In Florence we’ll be surrounded by beautiful renaissance art, statues, museums, views, and the amazing food of Tuscan kitchens. Siena is a step back into medieval times, composed of a passionate local culture, traditions, ancient buildings, and amazing food, all carefully and proudly preserved for nearly a thousand years. We’ll explore the picturesque Tuscan Countryside (South of Siena) by private van, discovering the very best of the landscape, hill-towns, and enjoying special wine tastings & tours of the Tuscan vineyards. We finish in Rome, where it all began, among the Roman ruins and special visit to The Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and Saint Peter’s Basilica. The trip offers a truly special opportunity to combine Italian history, culture, hands-on experiences, photo opportunities, and amazing food & wine into one unforgettable journey! For more details, view Full Itinerary .

$6,750  +  AIRFARE / MEALS

Price includes: • Hotel Accommodations • All Activities on Itinerary • Italian Ground/Water Transportation on Tour • Breakfast Everyday • Welcome Dinner Excludes: • All Other Meals • International Airfare • Travel/Health/Cancellation Insurance.

Price is per person, double hotel-room occupancy. Single-Supplement Traveling as Pair: additional $2,125/each* Single-Supplement Traveling Alone: additional $4,250.*

Deposit of $1,650/person reserves spot on tour. Once Sign-Up application is complete, you will receive invoice for non-refundable deposit. Remaining Payment-In-Full of 50% due 150 days prior to tour start date, 100% due 90 days prior to tour start date. *Single Supplement fee due 50% on Sign-Up Date / 100% due 150 Days before Tour Start Date. View the registration process for more details.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:

• Superbly rated Italian Bed & Breakfast Accommodations
• Private Guide for Entire Trip (Adam DeSerio)
• Private Gondola ride through the Grand Canal of Venice
• World-class art: Galleria Accademia & Uffizi Gallery in Florence
• Private van through the beautiful rolling Tuscan hills
• Taste the best: Special wine tour in the Tuscany Countryside
• Siena, A step back to Medieval Tuscany & The Palio History
• Hands-on pasta cooking class in Rome
• Exclusive tours: Colosseum, Roman Forum, and The Vatican
• Perfect balance: Culture, food, activities, & photo opportunities
• Perfect time of year: Beautiful weather & fewer tourists

– Click to View Adam’s Photos of Italy

IS THIS TRIP FOR YOU?

What to Expect: This exclusive, small-group tour is for people looking to truly “experience” Italy, desiring everything Italy is known for, while also obtaining a local perspective. A perfect balance of culture and tradition, special access to touristic attractions, and amazing food/wine experiences along the way, creating a rewarding all-inclusive experience. There is a moderate level of physical activity, carrying your bags up stairs, and a fair amount of daily walking/exploring, but nothing too strenuous. Being a small group, we move at the pace everyone is comfortable with.

Perfect For:  Travelers wanting to truly discover and experience Italy’s top destinations in their most beautiful form. From the level of depth of information and history, to the hands-on experiences and special access to popular sights and attractions, Adam will share his passion of the food, culture, and story of Italy in a way like never before. Ideal for first time travelers to Italy, as well as returning Italy travelers. With photo opportunities around every corner.

Age Range & Activity Level: Welcome to adult travelers of all ages; with many having recently retired, excited to travel, and physically active and able to casually walk several miles a day, as well as do stairs.

ACCOMMODATIONS & FOOD

Italian b&bs – rated excellent to superb.

Accommodations: We stay in excellent to superbly rated Italian Bed & Breakfast Hotels, each carefully chosen by Adam DeSerio for their combination of Italian charm, friendly staff, comfort and amenities, and perfect location in the central-heart of each city. Each private room comes with a full private bathroom, wi-fi access, and includes a wonderful breakfast every morning. You will truly enjoy your hotel experiences in every city!

Photos of Hotel Rooms:  Additional information & Photos of Accommodations: Below is a link to an example of the types of Rooms, Bathrooms, Breakfast, Lobby & Staff you can look forward to on this amazing tour. Click Here to View the Accommodations Page

Meals:  Most meals are eaten together as a group at Adam’s top recommended restaurants and special local finds, and occasionally eaten family-style, allowing us to taste a variety of wonderful local dishes that make each region and city unique. Adam will share information, stories, and passion about the food with every meal. Average $50 person/day.

Why Do A DeSerio Tour?

Watch video below to learn more:

Food & Accommodations:

13 DAY ITINERARY

Experience italy tour, available: may 4 – may 17, 2024.

Full Itinerary below outlines all activities, entrances, hotel nights, transportation, and group meals included throughout the Tour. Most days begin at 9am after breakfast and finish after dinner. There will be occasional free-time made available throughout the tour, while most days are filled with amazing activities, restaurants, and a full itinerary. Most days consist of daily walking around the cities, with frequent stops along the way to enjoy the views, delve into the activities, and live “La Dolce Vita” (the sweet life) in Italy!

Arrival Day & Time:  May 4, 2024  •  Arrive Anytime  •  Hotel Check-in: 2pm – 8pm Airport:   Venice International Airport  (VCE) Hotel included in Tour Package for this early-arrival rest-day (Day 0). We officially begin Tour after breakfast the next day (Day 1). If you wish to arrive any day(s) earlier than this, please request at least 150 days prior to Tour Start Date.

Departure Day & Time:   May 17, 2024  •  Depart Anytime  •  Hotel Check-out: By 10am Airport:   Rome International Airport  (FCO)

VENICE (ARRIVAL)

Included in the Tour is this Arrival Day, with the night at our tour Hotel. Please arrive on the arrival date listed for this tour. You can arrive anytime, however check-in may not be available until 2pm. Coming from the US, that means you will probably need to look for a flight that departs the US the day before, as the time zone difference and total flight time will require that. This first day, Day 0, is just a rest day, so you can be ready for the amazing journey we have ahead! The next day, Day 1, the Tour officially starts after breakfast.

• Meet Your Guide
• Hotel Check-in
• Rest & Settle In
• Venice Hotel (1 Night)

Welcome to Italy… What better way to begin than in the most beautiful and romantic city in the world. Home to hundreds of quiet canals, filled with gondolas and beauty, Venice is a city just waiting to be explored. We will take a Gondola ride through the most beautiful areas, explore off-the-beaten-path streets, discover Murano Glass, and visit Burano too! Uncover a local perspective of Venice like no other Tourist could.

• Welcome to Venice Group Dinner
• Explore the Beautiful Canals by Gondola
• San Marco Square & Tower Overlook
• Murano & Burano Island Exploration
• Sunset & Night Photography Opportunities
• Discover Quiet Streets/Canals, Away From Tourists
• Venice Hotel (3 Nights) with Breakfast

Travel by train from Venice to Florence in the morning, and check-in to the hotel. During our days in Florence we will be overwhelmed with art and beauty as we discover the magic of the Tuscan culture. Enjoy amazing family-style cooking, beautiful views and vibrant city squares, as well as spectacular sculptures and artwork from the past 2,000 years!

• Highspeed Train From Venice to Florence
• The Uffizi Gallery of Art
• Statue of David & Galleria Accademia
• City sunset view from Piazzale Michelangelo
• Florence Cathedral and Tower Overlook
• Photograph the Ponte Vecchio
• Florence Hotel (2 Nights) with Breakfast

Travel from Florence in the morning down to Siena, and check-in to the hotel. This special city has remained virtually unchanged for nearly a thousand years, maintaining a truly medieval feel and traditions present around every corner. It is a step back in time, and a favorite city of nearly all travelers!

• Train/Bus to Siena
• Siena Cathedral & Tower Overlook
• Baptistry and Underground Crypt
• Walking Tour of City, History, & Culture
• Beautiful Photography Opportunities
• Relaxing Evenings in Piazza Del Campo
• Siena Hotel (2 Nights) with Breakfast

TUSCAN COUNTRYSIDE (SOUTHERN)

Days 8 – 10.

Board our private van, and journey South of Siena through the beautiful rolling hills, cypress trees, and breathtaking landscape of the Tuscan Countryside through the Val D’Orcia area. Adam will not only take you to the best places at the best times of day, but also show you unique, small Tuscan hill-towns along the way. Overnight stay in the Tuscan Countryside.

• Private Van & Driver
• Explore Val D’Orcia Region (Southern)
• Special Wine Tasting / Vineyard Tour
• Unique Hill-Town Adventures
• Landscape Photography Opportunities
• Overnight Stay in Pienza
• Breakfast Included at Hotel
• Hotel in Countryside (1 Night)
• Siena Hotel Return (1 Night)

DAYS 10 – 13

Travel by high-speed train to Rome in the morning. During our days together in the Capital of Italy, we will discover the true ancient history and culture that started over 2,000 years ago. We will explore the mighty ruins, monuments, museums, and churches in a uniquely hands-on and personal way. The perfect conclusion to our epic journey through Italy!

• Highspeed Train to Rome
• Colosseum Tour: In, Around, Above, & Underground
• Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
• The Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
• Saint Peter’s Basilica & Dome City-Overlook
• Farewell Group-Dinner Cooking Class
• Rome Hotel (3 Nights) with Breakfast

ADAM DESERIO

Enjoy the ease and excitement of traveling with your passionate and experienced private guide for the entire trip; Adam DeSerio, an American born – Italian speaking travel enthusiast, adventurer, and landscape photographer.

Adam has lived and traveled in Italy over many years, gaining expert historical and local knowledge of all the trip locations. He is excited to share with you all the cultural traditions, main and side-streets, and share each city’s local secrets, something very unique to this tour. You will be led to some of the very best locations, eat amazing food, and experience a safe and local feel in every city. Now, join Adam for the chance of a lifetime to experience Italy to the fullest. Whether returning, or your first time, Adam will guide you with local knowledge, travel skills, and sightseeing like never before, all while in a small-group style that feels like a truly private tour.

Adam has been leading specialized, small-group and private tours in Italy, Greece, and other countries for nearly a decade, sharing his expert knowledge of the culture, food, wine, history, and more! Adam is also the son of renowned professional landscape photographer, Lou DeSerio; who studied with Ansel Adams for many years and been selling his landscape photographs for over 40 years. Adam followed in his father’s footsteps and has been selling his own photographs in galleries since he was only 5 years old. Adam has spent his entire life capturing the world around him, traveling on and off the beaten path, taping into the deepest aspects of every location, and enjoys sharing the most amazing and most unique parts of the globe with people both as a photographer and as a travel organizer and tour guide.

WATCH VIDEO ABOUT THIS TOUR:

The Process:

• STEP 1: Submit Sign-Up application! First come first serve! – Click any blue box that says “Click to Sign-Up” and fill out the application for each Participant.
• STEP 2: Receive and Pay Deposit to secure spot on Tour. – Non-refundable Deposit due within 48 hours of receiving. Additional: 50% of Single  Supplement Fee due if applicable (non-refundable).
• STEP 3: Pay 50% of Balance Due 150 Days Prior to Tour Start Date. –  Additional: Remaining 50% of Single  Supplement Fee due if applicable ( non-refundable) .
• STEP 4:   Purchase Flights between 150 – 90 Days Prior to Tour Start Date. – This is the best recommended window of time to find a good deal on Flights, while also guaranteeing the Tour will happen & has minimum # of Participants.
• STEP 5: Pay Remaining 50% of Balance Due 90 Days Prior to Tour Start Date. –  Additional: Any additional fees, hotel nights, extension balances, etc. due if applicable.
• STEP 6: Receive Packing Blogs/Info, Travel Tips, Arrival Info & Details. –  DeSerio Tours will send emails,  information, and details in the months leading up to the tour, helping you feel comfortable and informed.
• STEP 7: Start Packing you Bags! You have one amazing journey ahead!

Timeline of Due Dates:

• At Sign-Up : Registration & Deposit Due
• 150 Days Before Tour Start: Dec. 6, 2023
• 90 Days Before Tour Start: Feb. 4, 2024
• Tour Start Date: May 4, 2024

Registration Process: Deposit/Payments/Cancellations/Refunds:*

• This tour is limited to a maximum of 10 people.*
• Prices are per person. Rooms filled with double occupancy (single supplements available in limited supply on first come first served basis).*
• Single Supplement(s) are available in two forms: “Traveling As A Pair” (for two people traveling together but wanting separate rooms), and “Traveling Alone” (Single person traveling alone)*
• If “Traveling As A Pair” Single Supplement is selected, individuals will become responsible for the full “Traveling Alone” Single Supplement fee amount if their travel partner in the pair cancels, opts-out, or does not complete the sign-up process*
• Cancellations on your (Participant) behalf before Tour Start Date: • Greater Than 150 Days Before: Cancellation Fee equal to non-refundable Deposit, (plus 50% of Single Supplement fee when applicable)* • 150 Days – 91 Days Before: Cancellation Fee equal to non-refundable Deposit, plus 50% of Payment-In-Full amount, (plus 100% of Single Supplement fee when applicable)* • 90 Days or Less Before: Cancellation Fee equal to non-refundable Deposit, plus 100% of Payment-In-Full amount, (plus 100% of Single Supplement fee when applicable)* • Cancellation requests must be in writing and will be effective upon date of receipt by DeSerio Tours. • Cancellation deadline dates are based on the originally scheduled tour date, and are not reassigned due to Tour postponement or rescheduling.
• Cancellations on behalf of DeSerio Tours, DBA of DeSerio Global Ventures, LLC: Please review the Terms & Conditions of this Tour for details.* • If canceled by DGV, LLC due to inadequate enrollment, notice will be sent no later than 90 Days prior to Tour Start Date, and a refund will be made available.* • If canceled by DGV, LLC for any other reason, a partial or full refund or credit may or may not be made available, according to the specific cancellations reasons and timing, as outlined in the Terms & Conditions.* • Due to the strict Cancelation Policy and Terms & Conditions of this Tour, it is recommended that each Participant obtain independent Travel/Health/Cancellation Insurance.

* Please see the Terms & Conditions agreement for additional information. By signing-up, registering, making payment(s) toward, and/or participating in, a Tour, you agree to all Terms & Conditions.

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The best of Italian trips unlocked for you

Experience Italy differently. Enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences and uncover local secrets when our friends across the country open their doors to you. Here’s just a sample of the rich experiences you can expect.

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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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Escorted Tours to Italy | Travel to Italy

Perillo Tours has been America’s leader in Italy travel since 1945. The following escorted tours have been enjoyed for over 40 years by more than 750,000 of our guests. Each itinerary . . . activity . . . hotel . . . and meal . . . has been personally selected, continuously innovated, and expertly perfected by Steve Perillo, according to the highest standards of founder Joseph Perillo and Mr. Italy himself – Mario Perillo. Chances are, YOU know someone who’s enjoyed one of our famous Italy tours! Look for 2025 dates and rates in May!

Starting at $3795

This 12-day tour includes 2 of the most beautiful regions of Italy: Campania & Puglia. The south of Italy is known in Italian as the 'Mezzogiorno' (Midday) region; some of the oldest and most important historical towns in Italy are located here as well as some of the best food in all of Italy! You’ll be able to try a margherita pizza in the city where it was invented – Naples! Explore the beautiful region of Puglia which has a culture, history, and a dialect all its own. Discover the Trulli in Alberobello and explore Lecce, also known as the “Florence of the South”. You'll be surprised by how the 'old country' has very much joined the 21st century while retaining its special charm.

Discover the region of Umbria, also known as "the Green Heart of Italy", along with Tuscany and Rome on this new 11 day tour. Enjoy a wine tasting and an unforgettable hands-on cooking class with a Tuscan chef! Go on an exciting truffle hunt with a truffle hunter and his trained dogs. Visit the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi and discover Gubbio, a well-preserved medieval town dating back to the Etruscan period.

Important: There are many steps and different buildings in Castello di Spaltena, the hotel in Tuscany. Anyone with reduced mobility should consider a different tour.

Starting at $4695

Perillo's Italy North Classic is the largest selling Italy tour in history. Developed in 1975 by Mario Perillo and Lucio Massari, it remains our most popular itinerary today. The 'Continental' tour delivers the identical itinerary (in reverse) but without dinners.

Starting at $4850

Perillo's Italy North Classic is the largest selling Italy tour in history. Developed in 1975 by Mario Perillo and Lucio Massari, it remains our most popular itinerary today. The 'Continental' tour delivers the identical itinerary (in reverse) but without dinners and without Milan.

Starting at $5875

Perillo's Italy North Classic is the largest selling Italy tour in history. Developed in 1975 by Mario Perillo and Lucio Massari, it remains our most popular itinerary today. This departure will be staying in superior/deluxe  hotels.

Starting at $3995

Our Marco Polo Tour is the counterpart to our Vesuvius Tour. One featuring Venice, the other featuring Sorrento. Either way, you can be assured that Steve Perillo has hand-selected every hotel, restaurant, sightseeing experience and guide that will make your vacation the memory of a lifetime.

Starting at $3395

The 'Continental' gives you the chance to dine on your own in Italy! Your tour guide will be happy to suggest everything from trattorias to the finest dining experiences.

Starting at $4225

The Renaissance was a rediscovery of classical Greek culture in Italy, and especially Florence.

Michelangelo and Leonard da Vinci were the big names of this period.

But on this deluxe 9-day tour, you’ll also meet the many other creative geniuses of the Renaissance!

Starting at $3295

Lemon trees and vineyards cascade down the terraced cliffs to the sea. Soft sea breezes mix with the scent of fresh basil, tomatoes and olive oil. Capri sparkles in the distance. Welcome to Amalfi! This is a no-holds-barred invitation to live life to the fullest.

Due to popular demand this tour is also now available with similar options on additional dates not show here:

• Mar 28 - Apr 4
• Apr 21 - Apr 29

Starting at $3695

There's no place on earth like Sicily. A true melting pot of cultures, you'll see Greek and Asian influences in the exotic architecture, unique cuisine and faces of her people. If you happen to be of Sicilian heritage, you'll be surprised by how the 'old country' has very much joined the 21st century while retaining its special charm.

If you're looking for a compact and affordable Italy Vacation - Our Vesuvius Tour is perfect! The itinerary is meticulously crafted by Steve Perillo and his team to run like a 'Swiss Watch' and be lots of fun too!

• Sep 5 - Sep 14
• Oct 3 - Oct 12
• Oct 17 - Oct 26

On this Perillo tour, you'll experience firsthand the wonders of Northern Italy. This treasure packed tours takes you throughout the celebrated northern gems including Bologna, Rapallo, Stresa, Parma, Venice, Cinque Terre, La Spezia, Portofino, Lugano, Lake Como.

format_quote Testimonials

My husband and I recently returned from the 14 day continental tour of Italy. We picked this tour as our honeymoon and could not be happier with our choice! We had such a great time and our tour guide, Paola was incredible! We saw so many breathtaking sights, learned so much about the history and culture of Italy and ate incredible food. This trip was absolutely amazing and I just want to thank Perillo for all their hard work, awesome tour guides, and showing us the best of Italy. We can't wait to come back!

Mr. & Mrs. M.C.

When you realize all that goes into a travel experience - the hotels, transportation, tickets to various events, food, shopping and more, the Perillo Tours are more than a bargain. The interaction of the small group vacationer's makes it all worth while. Thank you to all who make it happen.

bookmark Receive travel discounts, our Italy, Hawaii, Spain, and Greece brochures, and the FREE Insider's Guide to Italy in your email! Travel Advisors can request brochures here .

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Classic Italy, Small Groups

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• 2025 Small Group

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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

TAUCK'S YELLOW ROADS – Encounter spectacular scenery around every bend on a drive along the celebrated Amalfi Coast – the perfect blending of earth, sea and sky

SMALL GROUP DEPARTURES averaging 24 Tauck guests – A small group size means a more personal travel experience highlighted by stays at chic smaller hotels in fabulous locations

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – After-hours guided tour of remarkable St. Mark's Basilica in Venice

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – After-hours guided visit to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, without the crowds – see the Vatican treasures at your own pace

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

A wine tasting from local vineyards in Umbria

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Active components such as hiking, bicycling and walking longer distances may be included, and hills and/or uneven terrain may be encountered on several days. Guests should be able to walk two to three miles and stand for long periods of time with no difficulty.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

Along Europe's Scenic "Yellow Roads"

A grand tour – in a small, intimate group... a trip of a lifetime through the most sought-after destinations in Italy with names like the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento, Rome, Venice and Florence... 

Ferragamo museum & wine tasting, private classical recital in umbria, private classical music recital in a frescoed music room.

Between the late 16th century and the 1960s, a grand estate in the small Umbrian town of San Martino in Campo near Perugia was inhabited by members of the noble Donini family. What began as two 17th-century villas of the summer residence of the Donini counts became at the turn of the 21st century the hotel Alla Posta dei Donini, boasting many authentically restored features from centuries past. One of these is a sitting room that was primarily used for concerts, decorated with frescoed walls and ceilings painted by artists from the school of noted 18th-century painter Francesco Appiani. Fittingly, it's in this magnificent setting that you'll enjoy a private classical music recital for Tauck guests only!

Tauck Exclusive – Vatican Museums after hours

Explore the treasures of the vatican museums and the sistine chapel... without the crowds.

Founded by Pope Julius II in the early 1500s, the Vatican Museums display classical and religious works of art collected by the popes throughout the centuries. Combined with the Sistine Chapel, they're visited by around six million people a year, ranking among the most-visited art museums in the world. On your exclusive, after-hours, guided visit, you can explore the Candelabra Gallery, the Map Gallery, the Tapestries, and the Sistine Chapel… all without the usual crowds. So you'll be able to take your time to contemplate the inspirational treasures before you – including the spectacular biblical frescoes on the ceiling, which took Michelangelo four years to paint, standing on a scaffold... and changed the course of western art.

This was a trip of a lifetime and I chose it because I felt the itinerary allowed me to experience the best Italy had to offer. All my expectations were met and exceeded!

Tauck Traveler Review

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All the information you need for this journey at your fingertips – day-by-day details, map, hotel descriptions, key highlights and more.

Where you stay is an important part of your journey – with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. Download accommodation details and your travel plans begin!

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Overnight Accommodations

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Grand hotel la favorita.

Sorrento, Italy

Rome, Italy

Posta Donini

San Martino in Campo, Italy

Grand Universe Lucca

Lucca, Italy

Nights 9-11

Hotel Brunelleschi

Florence, Italy

Nights 12-13

Splendid Venice Starhotels

Venice, Italy

Your Journey

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally , you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Italy; however, you do not need a visa for the short duration of this tour.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally , you should contact an embassy or consulate of Italy to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

Deposits and fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $600 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Guest Protection

Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
• Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $559  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person 

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

60 days or more before departure = $600 per person

59-8 days before departure = $900 per person

7-1 days before departure = $1500 per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

While drinking water is generally safe at all our hotels, bottled water will be available wherever the local water is not fit to drink. We also provide bottled water on the motor coaches.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly. 

VACCINATIONS  

If you are a resident of the U.S., no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Italy. For complete vaccination and inoculation information please contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to obtain information regarding vaccinations that may be required for your journey. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here.

If you are a resident of another country, please contact an embassy or consulate of Italy to determine what vaccination(s) may be required for your travel.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

Classic Italy covers 1,270 mi (2,043 km) and, though paced to accommodate all our guests, is nonetheless an active and extensive tour. To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. Italy is home to innumerable historic buildings and sites, some dating from antiquity. Therefore, roads, walkways and architecture will present difficulties for some guests with physical disabilities. You will encounter cobblestone streets, narrow passageways, and some steep and winding staircases. For the most part, however, the amount of walking you do at the various sites and towns is at your discretion.

In addition, coach travel along the many "Yellow Roads" on this tour are very windy and may cause you some discomfort if you are prone to motion sickness. If you are, we advise bringing motion sickness remedies or medication with you.

PLEASE NOTE:  We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters.  Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest.  Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it. 

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

The weather in Italy is temperate and unpredictable. Generally, spring and fall average high temperatures range from 55 to 75°F (13 to 24°C) and summer high temperatures range from 75 to 85°F (24 to 29°C). Rain falls evenly throughout the year in Venice, but more seasonally in Rome and Sorrento, where summers are dryer than winters. Venice experiences very high humidity, with hot weather in July and August. Due to its location on the Adriatic coast, Venice often experiences thunderstorms and rain showers which, particularly in spring and autumn, tend to cause flooding, known as the 'acqua alta'.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website by clicking here.

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

When packing for your trip to Italy, it is important to keep in mind the time of year you are traveling and the current weather conditions for that time. The climate of northern Italy ranges from Alpine near Switzerland to continental along the Po River to Venice. Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing.

In Europe, especially in finer restaurants, it is generally customary to dress somewhat formally. Slacks or a dress for women and a jacket for men are acceptable dining attire. It is advisable to avoid wearing jeans, sneakers or shorts for dinner. You may also wish to dress up a bit for the welcome reception and the farewell dinner, but certainly be comfortable.

Most Catholic churches in Italy require that your knees and shoulders be covered when you enter, even during the hot days of summer. You will find a hair dryer located in your hotel guest room. By law in Italy, irons and ironing boards are not made available to guests at hotels. Valet laundry and dry cleaning services are available for a fee.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your trip to northern Italy:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket and tie for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

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Results and Highlights from the 2024 Giro d’Italia

Check out stage-by-stage recaps and overall standings of the Italian Grand Tour.

Stage 8: Spoleto to Prati de Tivo, 152 km

Stage 7: foligno - perugia (individual time trial), 40.6 km, stage 6: torre del lago puccini - rapolano terme, 180 km, stage 5: genova - lucca, 178 km, stage 4: acqui terme - andora, 190 km, stage 3: novara - fossano, 166 km, stage 2: san francesco al campo - santuario di oropa, 161 km, stage 1: venaria reale - torino, 140 km.

Check out stage-by-stage recaps of the action below.

Stage 9: Avezzano to Naples, 214 km

Stage Winner: Olav Kooij (Visma-Lease a Bike)

Race Leader: Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates)

The longest stage so far is arguably one of the easier stages despite covering 214 km. Compared to the gravel stage, a short, hard time trial, and the brutal summit finish in yesterday’s stage, Avezzano to Naples may have a lot of distance, but it was relatively flat and fast. While a valiant effort from Polti Kometa’s Andrea Pietrobon and Mirco Maestri kept the two riders away for most of the race, Julian Alaphilippe and Jhonathan Narváez both made impressive attacks in the final kilometers. But it came down to a sprint finish that was played perfectly by Visma-Lease a Bike’s Olav Kooij.

The long, flat start meant plenty of attacks from early on, with Soudal-QuickStep, EF Pro Cycling and Bahrain Victorious as some of the early teams to head to the front. But the first early attack that stuck came from Polti Kometa’s Andrea Pietrobon and Mirco Maestri—they grew a gap of over two minutes, but the peloton behind seemed unbothered. As always, kudos to the Giro Twitter feed for gems like this:

The two led for much of the race, maintaining a nearly-two minute gap at 65 km to go—a no man’s land with the intact peloton behind and charging hard. The Alpecin-Deceuninck team led the peloton behind Pietrobon and Maestri as the two teammates continued to sweep up sprint points.

A crash at 57 km to go saw three Ineos Grenadiers including Geraint Thomas—currently third in the general classification—go down. But with his teammates, Thomas was unconcerned and was back on and riding back to the peloton quickly.

Meanwhile, the peloton began to pull the Polti Kometa riders back, dropping the gap to 1:20 with 53 km to go. UAE Team Emirates and EF Education-EasyPost took control of the front of the peloton as the three Ineos Grenadiers including Thomas made their way back into the peloton.

At 27 km to go, Julian Alaphillipe launched an attack with the two leaders just 10 seconds ahead. He swiftly chased them down with teammate Nicola Conci as they closed on the top of the punchy climb. Alaphilippe raced past the Polti Kometa riders, continuing his attack up the road. Kevin Vermaerke (dsm-firmenich PostNL) and Lewis Askey (Groupma FDJ) were able to launch themselves from the peloton and attached to the now-six man strong lead group.

Behind them, attacks came fast and furious from the peloton as the clock ticked down on Stage 9 and riders tried to bridge up to the lead group. Arkea-B&B Hotels’ Ewen Costiou made his way across the now-lowered gap, and the peloton struggled to get organized to chase with Lidl-Trek on the front.

Costiou and Alaphillipe made an attack, spearating themselves from the lead group, opening a gap of 15 seconds to the five riders behind them. The peloton continued to reel in the leaders, tightening gap between them and the now-chase group of only four to 10 seconds.

While Costiou and Alaphillipe made a valiant effort, on the final climb with 10 km to go, Costiou couldn't hold the pace and Alaphillipe was forced to continue his attack solo, reestablishing a 10 second lead on the peloton as he raced out of the saddle and towards the finish.

But he couldn't quite make it. He was absorbed by the peloton at just over 7 kilometers to go, as Ineos Grenadiers’ Jhonatan Narváez made an attack, opening a five second gap as the peloton splintered on the climb.

Stage 1 winner Narváez hit the final descent at 3 km to go, enjoying the use of the entire road on the downhill. He was holding a 8-second gap as the peloton started to organize for the final sprint.

With 1400 meters to go, Narváez had a 12 second gap as the small peloton including Pogačar tried to prepare for the sprint. But Narváez was unable to hold on to his gap as the teams massed behind him, swallowing him up with under a hundred meters to go.

Visma-Lease a Bike’s Olav Kooij ultimately took the sprint win ahead of Lidl-Trek's Jonathan Milan and Juan Sebastián Molano (UAE Team Emirates), who was led out by race leader Pogačar. (“If I can help… it’s better for me to be in front and help my friend,” he said in the post-race interview, adding, “I’m really looking forward to the rest day tomorrow.”)

Stage Winner: Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates)

We know he can win races with dramatic breakaways, but it turns out Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates) also can perfectly play out a sprint. In today’s race, he just narrowly outsprinted Daniel Martínez (Bora-hansgrohe) and Ben O’Connor (Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale) for the win at the top of the steep final ascent to the finish.

In case you were wondering, Pogačar has continued to opt for the full pink kit after the sartorial debacle earlier this week .

Today marked the first major mountain stage of the Giro with some of the classic climbs we love to see. Right from the start, it was clear that riders were going to be attempting breakaways before, during and after every climb—mountain stages at the Giro are often where we see unlikely stage winners thanks to a breakaway that comes as a surprise and actually sticks.

By 20 km into the race, a large group had formed at the front, but only 20 seconds separated them from the full might of the peloton. The group ebbed and flowed, and was cut down to 14 riders by just under 100 km to go. Nairo Quintana (Movistar), Romain Bardet (dsm–firmenich PostNL) and Magnus Sheffield (INEOS Grenadiers) were a few of the riders making moves in the lead group, and their lead stretched to over 2 minutes ahead of the peloton at 61 km to go.

But when a team like UAE Team Emirates is chasing the breakaway to preserve Pogačar’s overall lead, does it stand much of a chance?

“We thought the breakaway had a good chance, to be honest,” said Thomas in a post-race interview . “Obviously, UAE set a good tempo on the climb, and I guess because it was still quite close, I don’t know if they decided to go for the stage in the beginning, but they certainly decided to go for it in the end.”

As the group hit 15 km to go, heading towards the final climb into Prati di Tivo, the gap had dropped to just over 30 seconds. While several riders made valiant efforts to hold off the peloton, Pogačar sped into the finish with a group of seven riders and ultimately took the sprint.

However, the GC remained relatively unchanged, since seven of the top finishers on the stage were in the top eight in the GC, which is now led by Pogačar by 2:40 over Martinez and Geraint Thomas (INEOS Grenadiers).

“I wasn’t expecting this today,” Pogačar said in the post-race press conference, making him pretty much the only person in the world who wasn’t expecting it.

165 riders rolled down the little pink ramp this morning, each one minute apart, for first time trial of this year’s Giro.

Vicious crosswinds pushed riders across the road at points, their giant disc wheels acting as windsails, slowing down even some of the most skilled time triallists around.

And there is arguably no rider more skilled on a TT bike than INEOS Grenadiers’ Filippo Ganna, one of the world’s fastest men in the race against the clock.

“Top Ganna” is what the commentators called him, saying that everyone else looked like a passenger plane next to the fighter jet that is Ganna.

However, the 40.6-kilometer stage included a mighty pitch in the final stretch, gaining over two-hundred-meters over the last four kilometers, whose multi-digit grades benefitted some of the punchier riders in the bunch. After all, today’s time trail ran from Foligno to Perugia, across the undulating hills of Umbria.

By the time Geraint Thomas—who started the day in second place in the GC standings—rolled down the ramp, his INEOS Grenadiers teammates held all three positions on the podium (Ganna, Thymen Arensmen, Magnus Sheffield). By the time he crossed the line, those results held.

But there was only one rider left in the starting tent behind Thomas: current pink jersey, race favorite, and generational talent across a variety of disciplines, Tadej Pogačar.

Going back to his stunning time trial on the penultimate stage of the 2020 Tour de France, where he snatched the yellow jersey from Primož Roglič, Pogačar has displayed that he too is one of the world’s great time triallists.

And today, that skill on a TT bike threw a wrench directly into the works of INEOS’s 1-2-3 day, as Pogačar made up over a minute on the stage’s final six kilometers. Pogačar finished seventeen seconds ahead of Ganna, giving the UAE Team Emirates superstar the stage win.

A bunch of INEOS riders who couldn’t quite nip Pogačar. Seems to be one of the themes emerging from this year’s Giro.

Pogačar’s ride put nearly two additional minutes into his nearest rivals in the GC standings, increasing his overall lead from 46 seconds to 2:36.

Meanwhile, BORA-hansgrohe’s Dani Martinez, who entered the day in third place overall, bested Geraint Thomas by thirteen seconds on the stage, putting him ten seconds ahead of Thomas in the GC standings.

“There was a lot of preparations for this, a lot of ups and downs,” Pogačar said. “I’m super happy that today I felt good. I paced myself until the climb and then the climb, full gas.”

Geraint Thomas, meanwhile, wore a subtle look of disappointment after the race.

“I tried to ride within myself and when it was time to go, I just lacked it a little bit. It is what it is. It’s just one of those days.”

Thomas ended his post-race interview abruptly when the interview reminded him that his teammates did an excellent job on the day, without actually asking a question

“Thanks,” he said sternly, taking a sip of his drink.

Stage Winner: Pelayo Sánchez (Movistar)

May 9, 2024—Looking at the profile of Stage 6, you might think that the day would have been relatively mellow. One-hundred-eighty kilometers, minimal elevation, a pair of category-four climbs. However, thanks to a trio of gravel sectors—the strade bianche of Tuscany—today’s stage was anything but.

What many thought might be a launching pad for Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates), who won March’s Strade Bianche with a stunning eighty-kilometer solo break, ended up seeing a series of breakaways, none of which stuck.

Until one did. And, for the second day in a row, the break stayed away.

The trio of Movistar’s Pelayo Sánchez , Soudal Quick-Step’s Julian Alaphilippe, and Jayco AlUla’s Luke Plapp had a lead that stretched out to as much as two and a half minutes as the race entered its third and final gravel sector. But INEOS Grenadiers set a blistering pace behind, quickly whittling the three-man breakaway’s lead to less than thirty seconds with just a few kilometers to go.

But the gap stayed at around twenty seconds as the Plapp, Alaphilippe, and Sánchez passed under the 1 km to go banner. Alaphilippe launched early, and Sanchez responded. Though Plapp was hanging on their wheels, it was clear that this was a two-man race to the finish.

In his post-race interview, Sánchez was asked if he knew what he had just accomplished. “No,” Sánchez replied. “This is amazing. I don’t have words. Crazy, crazy day for me. I thought today that I could be in the breakaway, but I could never imagine winning here.”

Sánchez also admitted that, even though he spent the last several dozen kilometers working with Plapp and Alaphilippe, he tried several times to put time into his mates in the breakaway. “I tried to drop [Plapp and Alaphilippe], but it was impossible for me,” he said. “So, I tried at the end with the sprint. Luckily, I was the fastest.”

Plapp, who spent much of the day in the virtual pink jersey, said after the race, “That was an insane day. The race was out of control, the whole race. It was ridiculous for the first eighty kilometers.”

“The three of us worked reasonably well to the finish,” Plapp added. “We played games a bit. I was half-eyes looking for time and half-eyes looking for the stage, so I ended up riding a bit harder.”

Asked if he was thinking about the pink jersey during his breakaway, Plapp said, “No, no, no. I know (UAE Team Emirates) were never going to let it go. You could see from the gaps they were keeping, they weren’t willing to let the jersey go.”

A Win for the Breakaway as the Peloton Couldn’t Get It Together

Stage Winner: Benjamin Thomas (Cofidis)

May 8, 2024—Another flat-ish day, another sprint finish. That was supposed to be the script for Wednesday’s fifth stage of the Giro d’Italia. But if there’s a theme emerging from the early stages of this year’s Giro, it’s to expect the unexpected.

Because in a move that seems ever-more-rare, the day’s breakaway stuck, the charging group of sprinters behind unable to catch up.

At the end of the 178-kilometer stage, Benjamin Thomas captured Cofidis’s first win this season. Behind him were EF Education-EasyPost’s Michael Valgren, Andrea Pietrobon of Polti Kometa, and Groupama-FDJ’s Enzo Paleni. The group spent about half of the day with a lead of around one minute over the peloton.

Eight seconds behind Paleni, Lidl-Trek’s Jonathan Milan—the current maglia ciclamino— led the rest of the peloton across the line.

With 5 kilometers to the finish, the four-man breakaway had a solid forty-second lead and it seemed as though the peloton couldn’t organize themselves enough to reel them back in. Ineos Grenadiers had the most notable attack, but pulled off after the 3-kilometer mark, ostensibly working to protect their lead man Geraint Thomas’s time.

From there, nothing much materialized and the breakaway was allowed to duke it out themselves for the win.

“I said maybe today’s my day,” said the French Thomas, who captured both his first WorldTour and Grand Tour victories with the win. “Everything is perfect today. I knew the final because I trained there sometimes. I knew the Montemagno in the final, and it helped me, knowing the cobbles and the corners. It's a nice thing to win in Italy. It means a lot to me.”

Thomas, who is a seasoned track racer, likened the four-man break to a “long, long team pursuit.”

Valgren added that the topography of the parcours aided the breakaway’s chances.

“It was actually only with three or four ks to go (that we thought we could win) because you always think the peloton will take 10-seconds-per-kilometer more or less,” Valgren said after the race. “We kept working well together and there was in our favor kind of downhill. Chapeau to the other guys for working well together. We didn't start to play the games, so it was nice.”

The one thing that was expected was that nothing much changed in the GC battle. UAE Team Emirates’ Tadej Pogačar remains forty-six seconds clear of Geraint Thomas and forty-seven seconds ahead of BORA-hansgrohe’s lead man, Dani Martinez.

Jonathan Milan Wins Sprint Finish

Stage Winner: Jonathan Milan (Lidl-Trek)

May 7, 2024—For the second straight day, the Giro d’Italia ended with a flat sprint that was almost nabbed with a daring and unexpected last-minute attack.

The 190-kilometer route from Acqui Terme to Andora started with a gradual ride into the day’s only categorized climb, the category 3 Colle del Melogno, where the KOM points were taken by Intermarché-Wanty’s Lilian Calmejane. After that, it was an almost wholly downsloping back half of the stage, ending with a straight, flat shot into the seaside town of Andora.

If the peloton felt a bit jumpy heading into Andora, it no doubt had to do with Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates) and Geraint Thomas’s (INEOS Grenadiers) almost successful late break in yesterday’s sprint stage.

And then, just like yesterday, a solo attack was launched with plenty of racing left. Today, it was Ineos-Grenadiers’ Filippo Ganna, one of the fastest solo bike racers that’s ever lived, who attacked at the foot of the day’s final pitch, the Capo Mele, with 4 km to go. However, the long-distance attack was once again in vain, as he was caught and swallowed up with just a few hundred meters to go.

Moments later, another Italian, Lidl-Trek’s Jonathan Milan, launched a furious and commanding 300-meter sprint that would net him his second Giro stage win, exactly one year to the day from his first.

Meanwhile, Dani Martínez, who entered the day in third place in the GC standings, suffered a late-stage mechanical. Lucky for the BORA-hansgrohe racer, it was within the final 3 kilometers, meaning he was awarded the same time as the bunch ahead and lost no extra time to Pogačar and Thomas.

In sad news, Biniam Girmay (Intermarché-Wanty) slid out on a slick descent with about 62 kilometers left, crashing out of the race with an injury. It was a brutal reminder of the Eritrean’s luck, who, moments after becoming the first Black African rider to win a Grand Tour stage in 2022’s Giro, suffered a freak injury when the cork from his celebratory champagne bottle shot him in the eye, causing him to abandon the race with a hemorrhage in his eye.

“We saw Ganna going full gas in the last climb, and we just had to catch him,” said Milan of his Italian track teammate. “Today, the guys did such an amazing job. This experience was special because my parents were here today. I’m really happy about it,” Milan, who won last year’s maglia ciclamino, added.

After the race, second-place finisher Kaden Groves said the day’s blisteringly high speeds made the stage “quite scary at times.” And when asked about how his Alpecin-Deceuninck team was shaping up over the Giro’s first week, Groves said, “We’re getting there.”

Soudal Quick-Step’s Tim Merlier Takes Sprint Victory Amidst GC Favorites’ Late Attack

Stage Winner: Tim Merlier (Soudal Quick-Step)

May 6, 2024 – The sprinters had their first chance to shine, as the race’s third stage from Novara to Fassano featured just 750 meters of elevation over 166 kilometers.

However, it wasn’t without a bit of drama, as the race’s biggest GC favorites launched a thrilling attack over the last four kilometers, throwing a wrench into what was expected to be a straightforward day. After an early move from EF-Education EasyPost’s Mikkel Honore, Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates) and Geraint Thomas (INEOS Grenadiers) followed, forming a small, three-man breakaway that, for a moment, looked as though it might stay away from the group.

Honoré was swallowed up by the group with about 1 kilometer to go, and given the day’s high pace and series of breakaways, there was some thought that Pogačar and Thomas’s attack might just stick. However, the two GC men were caught with about 400 meters to go, setting up the bunch sprint everyone expected the day to end with.

Soudal Quick-Step’s Tim Merlier nipped a group at the line that included Lidl-Trek’s Jonathan Milan and Intermarche Wanty’s Biniam Girmay, who rounded out the day’s podium, along with Arkea’s Jenthe Biermans and dsm-Firmeninch PostNL’s Tobias Lund Andersen.

After a masterful recovery from a late crash to win Sunday’s second stage, Pogačar started the day in the maglia rosa , forty-five seconds clear of Dani Martínez of BORA-hansgrohe and Geraint Thomas of Ineos Grenadiers. By the time stage 3 was over, those standings remained exactly the same.

“It wasn’t the plan,” Thomas said of the two-man attack over the closing kilometers. “We just wanted to stay out of trouble.”

He added that, over the final few hundred meters, it took everything he had to keep contact with Pogačar. “I was just trying to hold his wheel,” Thomas said, admitting that the attack was never part of the day’s plan.

“It was the hardest victory so far,” stage winner Merlier said of the unexpected chase he and his group of sprinters found themselves in as Thomas and Pogačar rode away. Merlier said he hesitated, causing him to miss out on his leadout man, and eventually forcing him to attack directly into the wind without any support.

Tadej Pogačar Wins Stage 2 and Takes the Maglia Rosa

May 5, 2024 - Tadej Pogačar of UAE Team Emirates wins Stage 2 of the Giro d’Italia 2024 and takes the Maglia Rosa. Twenty-seven seconds behind, Dani Martínez (Bora-hansgrohe) takes second, and Geraint Thomas (INEOS Grenadiers) is third.

It was a masterful performance by UAE Team Emirates once Pogačar made it back to the front of the peloton after a small crash due to a front flat tire. The Slovenian leads Thomas and Martinez by 45" in the General Classification.

In the post-race interview, Pogačar was asked if he panicked after crashing in the lead-up to the last climb. “Not really. I was quite calm. I hit a hole in the city and had a super fast flat tire. There was a bit of confusion. I wanted to stop before the corner, but the DS said, ‘No, no, after the corner.’ I was feeling good. The team was super good today. And then we set the pace that we like and it was perfect,” said the race leader.

“I didn’t know the climb well. Everybody was maybe doing this climb for the first time, and it was hard to guess where to do the [hard] pacing, but I think we did a really good job today. And it was super good the last pull of Rafał Majka in the hard part so that I could attack,” Pogačar added.

“I just wanted a stage win today and some gap. Test the legs a little bit. And the [goal] was to take the pink jersey. Now I can relax a little bit in the next few days with the team and we stay safe in the sprints.”

Watch the final kilometer of Stage 2 on the Giro d’Italia’s YouTube Channel

Geraint Thomas of INEOS Grenadiers found himself meeting his limit in today’s stage. “It was so hard to follow, but I knew if I tried to keep going I would completely blow up. I felt bad for sitting on Ben [O’Connor], but I was on the limit for a while there,” said Thomas in the post-race interview.

Regarding Pogačar’s crash, Thomas said, “Honestly, I didn’t know until I was on the climb, and someone said Tadej was back. The plan was to go to the front, not to attack, but to stay safe on the front.”

Narváez Upstages Pogačar to Secure Stage 1 Victory and Maglia Rosa

Stage Winner: Jhonatan Narváez (INEOS Grenadiers)

Race Leader: Jhonatan Narváez (INEOS Grenadiers)

May 4, 2024 - The opening stage of the Giro d’Italia produced plenty of fireworks and a surprise winner on the line. Team UAE Emirates set it up perfectly for Tadej Pogačar on the opening stage. After some long-lasting breakaways were caught, Pogačar broke free in the last four kilometers with Jhonatan Narváez (INEOS Grenadiers) and Max Schachmann (Bora-Hansgrohe). The Slovenian just couldn’t gap those two rivals, and it set it up for a sprint finish. In a bit of a surprise, it was Narváez, the 27-year-old Ecuadorian national champion, outsprinting Schachmann (second on the stage) and Pogačar (third). Narváez earns the first Maglia Rosa of the 2024 Tour of Italy.

Though he didn’t win the stage, Pogačar will head into Stage 2 with an advantage over many of his top GC rivals. Geraint Thomas (INEOS Grenadiers) was 10 seconds behind Pogačar on the stage and, after factoring in time bonuses, 14 seconds behind Pogačar in the GC standings.

Watch Stage 1 Highlights on the Giro d’Italia’s YouTube Channel

“It was a great feeling. We knew it was going to be a stage for me, and I worked a lot on it,” Narváez said in the post-race interview. “Following the best guy in the world on the climb was really hard, so it’s a special victory today. It’s still hurting me now. It was really hard—really, really hard. But in the end, I made it.”

“I think [Pogačar] went too long in the sprint, 200 meters after a really hard stage, and I did a short sprint, and in the end, I took the victory. For me, it’s amazing. There aren’t many opportunities in a Grand Tour to get the maglia rosa on the first day because you have a bunch sprint, a TT, or a different stage. Today was a good opportunity. I worked really, really hard for it,” added Narváez.

.css-1t6om3g:before{width:1.75rem;height:1.75rem;margin:0 0.625rem -0.125rem 0;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-background-size:1.25rem;background-size:1.25rem;background-color:#F8D811;color:#000;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-position:center;background-position:center;}.loaded .css-1t6om3g:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/bicycling/static/images/chevron-design-element.c42d609.svg);} 2024 Giro d'Italia

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Taylor Swift is about to go back on tour: Here's what to expect on the Eras Tour in Paris

After a two-month break, Taylor Swift is revitalizing her titanic Eras Tour in Paris, and fans believe there are changes coming to the show.

If you are wondering where she's playing, if there will be changes and how to score tickets, here's everything we know.

And if you're new to the Eras Tour party, you can get caught up on the first 83 shows here .

When does the Eras Tour start again?

Swift kicks off the European leg of her tour on Thursday, May 9, in Paris. She will perform Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights, as well, in the City of Light.

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What are Taylor Swift's tour dates in Europe?

There are 69 shows left in the Eras Tour: 51 in Europe, nine in America and nine in Canada.

The European leg stretches from May all the way through a five-night stand at Wembley Stadium in London in mid-August.

See a complete list of international dates here .

After she wraps up in Europe, Swift will stop in Miami, New Orleans and Indianapolis before wrapping up in Canada.

See the remaining U.S. dates here .

What is the Eras Tour set list?

The Eras Tour has featured a massive 45-song set list you can check out here . But speculation is swirling it won't look the same when Swift takes the stage in Paris.

Will Taylor Swift add 'The Tortured Poets Department' to her set list?

The tortured poet has been on hiatus keeping her stamina up by releasing a double album of 31 tracks. The 2-hours-and-2-minutes project broke a number of Billboard records as the superstar did zero press to promote it. Fans flocked to stores and streaming services to listen to all the songs from "Fortnight" to "The Manuscript."

Although the singer has not confirmed whether her 11th era album will be added to her Eras Tour set list, she did post a YouTube shorts video with two scenes that sent Easter egg decoders into a frenzy. In one of the shots, the singer is next to a railing where a "TTPD" logo appears to be (at 0:11). In the succeeding shot, her back-up dancers perform holding canes and wearing top hats, something they have not worn previously.

Swift's dancers and bandmates posted to their Instagram stories as they left for France last week. The singer did not appear at two media events with her boyfriend Travis Kelce: the Kentucky Derby and a Formula 1 race in Miami , Florida. Patrick Mahomes, Kelce's friend and Kansas City's quarterback, attended the car racing spectacular with his wife, Brittany.

Can I still get Eras Tour tickets?

Swift's show is completely sold out in Europe and North America. There are resale sites with tickets, but be wary of scams. The best way to avoid getting swindled is continuously checking links on Swift's website . There are some for resale on the sites verified by her camp.

Singapore was a hotbed for fans who traveled thousands of miles only to get turned away at the venue. In Tokyo and Australia, last-minute ticket drops happened a few days — without announcement — ahead of the shows.

Miami, New Orleans and Indianapolis — the three U.S. cities Swift is visiting in the fall — have some of the heftiest price tags with Canada closely behind. In may be cheaper to travel to Warsaw, Poland, or Gelsenkirchen, Germany. Here's a list of cities with the cheapest resale tickets, according to travel website  Islands.com .

10. Vienna, Austria — total average cost: $1,089, safety score: 69.72

9. Cardiff, U.K. — total average cost: $1,061, safety score: 61.83

8. Lyon, France — total average cost: $1,047, safety score: 44.3

7. Lisbon, Portugal — total average cost: $1,028, safety score: 70.15

6. Munich, Germany — total average cost: $1,000, safety score: 78.88

5. Paris, France — total average cost: $971, safety score: 41.83

4. Stockholm, Sweden — total average cost: $935, safety score: 53.86

3. Hamburg, Germany — total average cost: $903, safety score: 57.51

2. Gelsenkirchen, Germany — total average cost: $749, safety score: 51.33

1. Warsaw, Poland — total average cost: $712, safety score: 72.98

Catch Taylor Swift live with tickets at Vivid Seats , shop merchandise , and stream her latest on Disney+ . Purchases you make through our links may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.

Who are the opening acts?

Paramore launched the Eras Tour in Glendale, Arizona, in March 2023, so it's fitting the American rock band is opening the tour's second year. The act will open for Swift for 51 shows across Europe . The band was dubbed the 2024 Record Store Day global ambassador and surprised fans in Nashville the weekend following the release of "The Tortured Poets Department."

When the tour comes back to North America in October , Swift's opening act will be Gracie Abrams.

Where can I watch if I don't have tickets?

The Eras Tour is one of the first tours that has been followed, globally, by thousands of fans on digital platforms. Fans dedicate part of their concert experience to livestreaming as Swift performs. A few Swifties have learned how to host their own shows over social media including Tess Bohne , known as the livestream queen. Bohne goes live for (almost) every show pulling streams from Instagram and TikTok. When a livestream goes down, she fills the time with banter.

On YouTube, user @TaylorSwiftHockeyBro also livestreams the three-hour show, and on Twitch, @folkleric , is a host fans follow.

There is also an app, Swift Alert , that notifies fans who only want to watch certain eras like the acoustic, surprise set. The app sends out push alerts if there are any major announcements.

What secret songs are left?

For the past 83 shows, Swift has played an acoustic set she customizes at each stop with a guitar and piano performance. In 2024, the Eras Tour star added mashups of her songs for each stop. Here are the songs she has yet to perform:

• "Taylor Swift" (debut album): "Mary's Song" and "A Perfectly Good Heart"
• "Fearless": "The Way I Loved You," "Change," "Superstar," "We Were Happy," "That's When," "Don't You" and "Bye Bye Baby"
• "Red": "Girl At Home," "Ronan," "Forever Winter" and "Run"
• "1989": "Sweeter Than Fiction"
• "Reputation": "I Did Something Bad"
• "Lover": "London Boy," "Soon You'll Get Better" and "It's Nice to Have a Friend"
• "Folklore": "Hoax"
• "Evermore": "Happiness" and "Closure"
• "Midnights": "Paris" and "Glitch"
• "The Tortured Poets Department": all 31 tracks

Will Taylor Swift perform in 2025?

There have been many rumors that Swift will continue her show in 2025, but they are only rumors. Nothing has been announced for next year, and as of now, the tour will end in Vancouver, British Columbia, on Dec. 8.

Don't miss any Taylor Swift news; sign up for the  free, weekly newsletter "This Swift Beat."

Follow Taylor Swift reporter Bryan West on  Instagram ,  TikTok  and  X as @BryanWestTV .

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Europe’s best beach holidays: Pesaro, Italy

Pizzas, aperitivos and a big sandy beach add to the offbeat charm of this Adriatic resort town More beach holidays | Spain | France | Greece | Portugal

I hadn’t heard of Pesaro before my ex-flatmate sent me there in summer 2018. I was writing a book at the time, and Giulia reckoned the best place for me to do such work was in her grandad’s old flat, a modest unit in a block put up in 1946, during the short reign of Umberto II. It had lain empty since her nonno – Dottor Spinicci – died of liver failure, having failed to take his own medicine.

The flat’s balcony looked on to a hot and dusty courtyard shared with the local police station. When, on my first morning in the flat, I discovered a faded handwritten recipe for ragù alla bolognese that didn’t involve tomatoes, I was tempted to head down to the cop shop and report it as a thoughtcrime.

In the event, I let the idea slip and headed to the beach instead. Ambling seaward, I soon clocked that the Rossini opera festival was in full swing, and by the time I’d flip-flopped through the town’s Renaissance core and reached the Adriatic, I was familiar with all the tunes from The Barber of Seville.

Arriving at the sea, I was reminded how Italy’s beach scene can often leave a fair amount to be desired: ranks of pay-as-you-go bedding dominated the landscape, with each privatised hectare officiously marshalled. Beside the ranks and columns, however, I was relieved to discover a scattering of public patches. Called spiagge libere , these priceless parcels are where thrifty local people put down chairs and towels, pull out books and turn deeper shades of chestnut. From this moment, my trip followed a pattern. I’d work on the balcony until noon, head to Café Journal for a flatbread ( piadina ), then pick a deregulated square metre of sand.

I’d slap on some latte solare , swim nervously for a stretch (I’m afraid of frutti di mare ), then lie on one of Nonno Spinicci’s old beach towels, which shouted a faded Ciao! on a tricolour background. I’d thank Sol for the weather, Fortuna for my luck, and then Bacchus for aperitivo , which I’d take around 7pm at any of the beach bars that punctuate the boardwalk all the way to Fano, an ancient Roman settlement that can be reached by bike in less than an hour.

Aperitivo would typically be a pair of ice-cold lagers, a certain number of complimentary nibbles, and a period trying to reckon with the fact that Pesaro is twinned with Watford. I’d sit facing east, towards Split and Zadar, and watch the sea fade to a deep briny blue. A touch pickled by now, I’d require some ballast, and make a beeline for pizza at C’era Una Volta (Once Upon a Time), which struck me then, and strikes me yet, as a fitting place to finish. (For the record, I’ve not put tomatoes in my bolognese since.)

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The huge solar storm is keeping power grid and satellite operators on edge

Geoff Brumfiel

Willem Marx

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of solar flares early Saturday afternoon. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm. Solar Dynamics Observatory hide caption

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of solar flares early Saturday afternoon. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm.

Planet Earth is getting rocked by the biggest solar storm in decades – and the potential effects have those people in charge of power grids, communications systems and satellites on edge.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm that has been visible as aurora across vast swathes of the Northern Hemisphere. So far though, NOAA has seen no reports of major damage.

The Picture Show

Photos: see the northern lights from rare, solar storm.

There has been some degradation and loss to communication systems that rely on high-frequency radio waves, NOAA told NPR, as well as some preliminary indications of irregularities in power systems.

"Simply put, the power grid operators have been busy since yesterday working to keep proper, regulated current flowing without disruption," said Shawn Dahl, service coordinator for the Boulder, Co.-based Space Weather Prediction Center at NOAA.

NOAA Issues First Severe Geomagnetic Storm Watch Since 2005

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"Satellite operators are also busy monitoring spacecraft health due to the S1-S2 storm taking place along with the severe-extreme geomagnetic storm that continues even now," Dahl added, saying some GPS systems have struggled to lock locations and offered incorrect positions.

NOAA's GOES-16 satellite captured a flare erupting occurred around 2 p.m. EDT on May 9, 2024.

As NOAA had warned late Friday, the Earth has been experiencing a G5, or "Extreme," geomagnetic storm . It's the first G5 storm to hit the planet since 2003, when a similar event temporarily knocked out power in part of Sweden and damaged electrical transformers in South Africa.

The NOAA center predicted that this current storm could induce auroras visible as far south as Northern California and Alabama.

Extreme (G5) geomagnetic conditions have been observed! pic.twitter.com/qLsC8GbWus — NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (@NWSSWPC) May 10, 2024

Around the world on social media, posters put up photos of bright auroras visible in Russia , Scandinavia , the United Kingdom and continental Europe . Some reported seeing the aurora as far south as Mallorca, Spain .

The source of the solar storm is a cluster of sunspots on the sun's surface that is 17 times the diameter of the Earth. The spots are filled with tangled magnetic fields that can act as slingshots, throwing huge quantities of charged particles towards our planet. These events, known as coronal mass ejections, become more common during the peak of the Sun's 11-year solar cycle.

A powerful solar storm is bringing northern lights to unusual places

Usually, they miss the Earth, but this time, NOAA says several have headed directly toward our planet, and the agency predicted that several waves of flares will continue to slam into the Earth over the next few days.

While the storm has proven to be large, predicting the effects from such incidents can be difficult, Dahl said.

Shocking problems

The most disruptive solar storm ever recorded came in 1859. Known as the "Carrington Event," it generated shimmering auroras that were visible as far south as Mexico and Hawaii. It also fried telegraph systems throughout Europe and North America.

Stronger activity on the sun could bring more displays of the northern lights in 2024

While this geomagnetic storm will not be as strong, the world has grown more reliant on electronics and electrical systems. Depending on the orientation of the storm's magnetic field, it could induce unexpected electrical currents in long-distance power lines — those currents could cause safety systems to flip, triggering temporary power outages in some areas.

my cat just experienced the aurora borealis, one of the world's most radiant natural phenomena... and she doesn't care pic.twitter.com/Ee74FpWHFm — PJ (@kickthepj) May 10, 2024

The storm is also likely to disrupt the ionosphere, a section of Earth's atmosphere filled with charged particles. Some long-distance radio transmissions use the ionosphere to "bounce" signals around the globe, and those signals will likely be disrupted. The particles may also refract and otherwise scramble signals from the global positioning system, according to Rob Steenburgh, a space scientist with NOAA. Those effects can linger for a few days after the storm.

Like Dahl, Steenburgh said it's unclear just how bad the disruptions will be. While we are more dependent than ever on GPS, there are also more satellites in orbit. Moreover, the anomalies from the storm are constantly shifting through the ionosphere like ripples in a pool. "Outages, with any luck, should not be prolonged," Steenburgh said.

What Causes The Northern Lights? Scientists Finally Know For Sure

The radiation from the storm could have other undesirable effects. At high altitudes, it could damage satellites, while at low altitudes, it's likely to increase atmospheric drag, causing some satellites to sink toward the Earth.

The changes to orbits wreak havoc, warns Tuija Pulkkinen, chair of the department of climate and space sciences at the University of Michigan. Since the last solar maximum, companies such as SpaceX have launched thousands of satellites into low Earth orbit. Those satellites will now see their orbits unexpectedly changed.

"There's a lot of companies that haven't seen these kind of space weather effects before," she says.

The International Space Station lies within Earth's magnetosphere, so its astronauts should be mostly protected, Steenburgh says.

In a statement, NASA said that astronauts would not take additional measures to protect themselves. "NASA completed a thorough analysis of recent space weather activity and determined it posed no risk to the crew aboard the International Space Station and no additional precautionary measures are needed," the agency said late Friday.

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England. Ian Forsyth/Getty Images hide caption

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England.

While this storm will undoubtedly keep satellite operators and utilities busy over the next few days, individuals don't really need to do much to get ready.

"As far as what the general public should be doing, hopefully they're not having to do anything," Dahl said. "Weather permitting, they may be visible again tonight." He advised that the largest problem could be a brief blackout, so keeping some flashlights and a radio handy might prove helpful.

I took these photos near Ranfurly in Central Otago, New Zealand. Anyone can use them please spread far and wide. :-) https://t.co/NUWpLiqY2S — Dr Andrew Dickson reform/ACC (@AndrewDickson13) May 10, 2024

And don't forget to go outside and look up, adds Steenburgh. This event's aurora is visible much further south than usual.

A faint aurora can be detected by a modern cell phone camera, he adds, so even if you can't see it with your eyes, try taking a photo of the sky.

The aurora "is really the gift from space weather," he says.

• space weather
• solar flares
• solar storm

Amore Italian Restaurant

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Spaghetti Works

Tour Of Italy

Chicken Marsala

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2315 W 21st St

Wichita, KS 67203

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The food is amazing I have tried many dishes and loved them all. Trinity was my server and she was amazing!

If you are familiar to the Twin Lakes area of West Wichita, then you know that this particular building has been several things over the years. But now, there is a family-run Italian restaurant is housed in the space. Here is why you should go to Amore: Friendly service Good, family-made Italian food Reasonable prices, with a varied menu Here is what Amore could do to get better: Improve on their appetizers Parmesan on salads, not mozzarella And not much else Amore is a fine choice for Italian fare, and reminds me of the old Angelo's that has been around for decades. The dishes have a fresh taste, the baked pasta dishes are screaming hot, and they fill your bread basket if you wish. With a couple of glasses of wine, house salads, and two baked dishes, two of us dined for about $60 plus a tip, and the value is absolutely there. It's not a five-star spot - yet - but Amore can absolutely get there. Solid option for Twin Lakes/Benjamin Hills residents.

I had high expectations with the reviews I had read. It was really bad food. The bread was good. But after that it went downhill. Pastas were drenched in sauce and looked like soup. Everything is frozen, not homemade (waitress' words not ours). The lasagna had a sour taste as if it was old. The chicken Parmesan was soggy and too soft as if it was microwaved. The building itself inside is pretty darn rough and dated, stalls in the bathroom were pulling out of the walls etc.

A hidden gem for sure! We had to celebrate our girls birthday. Renee is 35 (again) and fabulous. We really loved Amore Italian Restaurant and will definitely go there again! The food was fantastic, and the service was awesome. The fresh rolls were a great addition to the meal. The calamari with red sauce was so good and had a little bit of a "kick" to it. We enjoyed calamari and raviolis for appetizers, spaghetti and meatballs, the tour of Italy, and of course, tiramisu for the birthday dessert! So many more items on their menu that we want to try. 5 Stars! 2315 W. 21st St. N. Suite 101, Wichita. #eatlocal #supportlocal #foodie #food #delicious #yummy #eat #dinner #local #smallbusiness #restaurant #localfood

See all photos from Tawnya Renee A. for Amore Italian Restaurant

The food was excellent! The service was top notch and the setting was great! Best Italian food in Wichita!

Now this is authentic Italian cuisine for this part of the United States. Service was absolutely fantastic! We did not wait very long for a table or for our food. Capellini was delicious with minimal amount of grease like other places we have visited. Ambiance was nice! No screaming kids or loud people next to us. This will be our go to place

We finally made it to Amore for dinner and loved it! Dinner time was busy but we only had to wait about 20 minutes for our table for two. We ordered the chicken marsala and the chicken parmesan and they were literally streaming hot when they were brought to us. Large servings and delicious!

Chicken Parmesan

The food wasn't nearly as good as I'd hoped. I ordered the chicken Marsala but the entree was so salty that I could not eat much. The cannoli for dessert wasn't edible because the shell was cooked to a rock hard consistency.

Our waitress told us her favorite item at the restaurant is the dinner rolls, and she was correct. The frozen dinner rolls were the least disappointing item we had. We started with the meatballs, which were smothered in sauce to distract you from the poor quality meat. Our entrees were not any better. The chicken was spongy, the ground beef had a white coloring to it, and the noodles were overcooked and mushy. Similar to the meatballs, our entrees were smothered in sauce to distract you from the inedible meat and noodles that lie underneath. The sauces were strongly seasoned with a basic Italian seasoning, being the only flavor we could taste in all the dishes. Though we only ate a small portion of all of the dishes and left hungry, we still ended up with food poisoning. Needless to say, we will not be returning.

Had an assortment of food and got it to go. The creamy seafood was very good with a great portion of seafood. The veal parm was one thin, soggy Sysco breaded veal patty with spaghetti. Do not get that. It tasted fine, but it was not worth $15. The lobster ravioli were very good. Toasted ravioli were alright. In my opinion, don't get the tomato sauce here, it's not the star. Little flavor. The spaghetti didn't hold onto the tomato-based sauce at all. Their cream and cheese sauces are great though.

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How to taste your way through Tuscany

Italy is known for its vibrant and varied cuisine. Discover it at its best in the region of Tuscany, where an assortment of inviting culinary experiences offer a true taste of the country.

Located in west-central Italy, the region of Tuscany is rich in natural beauty. Its striking landscapes vary from the chiselled Tuscan-Emilian Apennines in the north and the rugged Apuan Alps in the north-west, to the gentle green hills of Val d’Orcia in the south.

The region’s capital, Florence, is a destination renowned for its art and architecture. Its most iconic sight is the eminent Duomo, a stunning 400ft-tall masterpiece of the Renaissance. During its 100-year build, architect Filippo Brunelleschi is said to have introduced a pulley system to speed up lunch breaks, feeding the workers on the cathedral’s roof with peposo , a black pepper and beef stew.

Today, food remains an important part of Tuscany’s culture, and visitors are encouraged to slow down and savour the wide variety of culinary experiences on offer across the region — from truffle hunting and cheese tasting to sampling fine wine and sipping fresh coffee — here's how to get a taste.

1. Join a truffle hunt

Truffles are deeply rooted in Tuscan history, found throughout the region in all shapes and sizes and revered for their distinctive aromas and flavours. Learn about the timeworn traditions and distinct hunting practices of those seeking these subterranean delicacies at Italy’s first museum dedicated to truffles — the Museo del Tartufo e Centro di Documentazione — housed in an old castle in San Giovanni d’Asso. At Cucina Giuseppina , near the town of Certaldo, forage for your own truffles with the help of a guide and trained truffle-hunting dogs, before indulging in a truffle-based Tuscan lunch. In summer, you'll search for the elusive black truffle, while in the fall, the white truffle is the prize.

2. Try tasty cheeses

Tuscany is best known for pecorino, a sheep’s milk cheese — and especially treasured by Tuscans is the bold-flavoured pecorino cheese produced in Pienza, the aptly named pecorino di Pienza . Elsewhere in the region, the exuberant Palio dei Caci event draws crowds to the town of Volterra each October, where ‘runners’ compete to skilfully guide wheels of pecorino down a cobbled street. Many working farms in Tuscany are open to visitors, too, so you can learn how the cheese is made. Fattoria Corzano e Paterno just south-west of Florence produces cheese, wine and olive oil and also has guesthouses, a farm shop and a restaurant, with tasting sessions available year-round.

3. Make pasta from scratch

Handrolled pici is a popular pasta in Tuscany, often served with tomato, garlic and breadcrumbs. Pappardelle pasta is also a local favourite, generally served with rich and meaty sauces. Join a class to learn how to make your own pasta at wineries such as Magida in Brunello, which also offers accommodation packages. Private cooking lessons are also an option, where you can learn the art of the perfect pasta dish from professional chefs such as Antonella La Macchia .

4. Sample a variety of wines

Tuscany is well known for its geographically protected wines such as Chianti, Montepulciano and Brunello. Stop by the Enoteca la Fortezza wine bar inside the Fortezza di Montalcino and sample Montalcino's intense and complex Brunello wines. Enjoy tart and spicy Chianti wines at Pietraserena Azienda Agricola Arrigoni in San Gimignano, as you admire the impressive views across the hills and vineyards. Although Tuscany’s established viticulture scene is revered, there are also a growing number of organic, natural and biodynamic wines being developed, helping the region stay at the forefront of Italian wine production. Antinori nel Chianti Classico has been making wine since 1385 and now has an ultra-modern winery attached, which is open to visitors. Or find one of the unique buchette del vino (wine holes) hidden around Florence — at restaurants such as Babae , Belle Donne and Il Latini , to name a few — where wine is served through a tiny window, a tradition that dates back to 1559.

5. Experience a traditional trattoria

With charming hilltop towns seemingly around every bend, it’s easy to fall in love with a new local trattoria every evening in Tuscany. On the edge of Panzano-in-Chianti, head to the terrace at Il Vescovino to enjoy homemade ravioli stuffed with leeks and taleggio cheese, served in a simple tomato sauce. Along Tuscany’s western coastline, restaurants such as Il Romito in Livorno serve up a homely fish stew called cacciucco — a 500-year-old dish traditionally made using five or more types of fish in a red wine and tomato broth.

6. Sip freshly roasted coffee

Italy has an affinity for coffee and on almost every corner in Florence you’ll find coffee ‘bars’ in which you can quietly perch to people watch. The city is also home to the Accademia del Caffè Espresso , which features a coffee museum and an indoor coffee plantation, and also offers a selection of educational tasting sessions. Away from the city, learn more about Tuscan artisanal coffee and the finer details of the roasting and blending processes with a tour of Pienza Coffee in Val d’Orcia.

7. Peruse local markets

Intense and aromatic, Tuscany’s local food markets are sure to delight — piled high with humble but delicious ingredients, from bread and cheese to tomatoes and beans. While some markets such as Florence’s Mercato Centrale are open daily, smaller towns in the region host their weekly markets on varying days. In the city of Lucca, head to the MercoledìBio on Wednesdays — for organic fruit and vegetables, honey, olive oil, cold cuts, wine, bread and baked goods, as well as sheep’s, cow’s and goat’s cheese — or the Campagna Amica market on Thursdays — for fresh fish and seasonal vegetables, cheese, plants and flowers.

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