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Italy Holidays

Italy holidays are all about embodying ‘la dolce vita’ or ‘the sweet life’. It’s a philosophy Italians have been getting right for generations, as they continually find beauty in the simplest of things. Be it the few fresh ingredients needed to perfect a Margherita pizza or the winning combination of sun, sea and sand lining its coastline. You’ll be in good company on your Italian holiday too, as the birthplace of many great artists – Leonardo da Vinci and Caravaggio to name just two – there are few parts of the world that can boast such rich culture (Italy has more UNESCO World Heritage sites than any other country on the planet), romantic architecture and heart-stopping beauty than Italia. From Venice’s gondola-dotted waterways and Tuscany’s painterly landscapes to postcard-worthy Positano and the sought-after style of the Amalfi coast, a visit to Italy is to experience a sensory overload in the best way possible. This is a land that has inspired playwrights, novelists and poets, from Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’ – brought to life in fair Verona’s pretty streets – to EM Forster’s ‘A Room with a View’, set against the romantic backdrops of Florence and Rome. The Italian beauty is almost as plentiful as the exquisite local cuisine on offer, using recipes handed down through the ages; we’re talking handmade cacio e pepe, wood-fired pizza and the creamiest gelato imaginable. All washed down with an Aperol Spritz or some Italian wine as you toast to a trip well spent.
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Italy holiday ideas

A few suggestions to get the holiday planning process started

Why visit Italy with Original Travel ?

Italy is a holiday hotspot (for good reason), so our help in navigating the crowds is invaluable. From snapping up hard-to-come-by Vatican tickets (at the quietest times of day) to organising an archaeologist to guide you around Pompeii, our consultants have the insider intel to make your trip unforgettable. Stuck on where to stay? Our vetted accommodation options range from family-run ‘trullis’ in Puglia to big-name hotels in Venice. So, whether you're an adventurous family or a couple on a romantic retreat, we can find the version of Italy to suit you.

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A few of the benefits of travelling with us to Italy

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Travel to Italy by Region

Calabria & Basilicata

Suspended between the Tyrrhenian and Ionian seas, the Italian region of Calabria and its neighbour Basilicata promise picturesque villages, lunar plateaus, rugged coastline and mountain lakes. But perhaps the most inviting element of Calabria and Basilicata holidays is the warmth and kindness of the locals, and their pride in safeguarding the region’s customs and traditions. This is a place to immerse yourself in an off-the-beaten-track Italy, whether that means sipping coffee in Matera’s Piazza del Sedile or letting locals guide you through tiny villages before an afternoon dip in Maratea’s enchanting sea caves. Abundant natural parks and intriguing historic sites are the finishing touch on a truly seductive Italy full of sunshine and authenticity.

Dolomites

South of the Alps, the towering peaks of the Dolomites range dominate the landscape, and while a popular ski destination in winter, the summer here is also a great holiday option. To many people the Dolomites are something of a secret anyway, but word is getting out about this staggeringly beautiful region, and its skiing (and summer holiday) potential. The Dolomite super-ski area comprises some 800 miles of slopes, including the Marmolada glacier, creating a network that rivals the Trois Vallées in France. After the snow melts, the mountain landscape morphs into lush green valley pastures and thick forests dotted with remote mountain huts and isolated villages, all set against a backdrop of the sharp rock formations of the Dolomites. Mountain biking, hiking or climbing are the ideal ways to explore the countryside and there are a wide range of routes to suit people of all abilities and plenty of mountain restaurants to stop at for long leisurely lunches. On Dolomites holidays in summer you can stay in quintessentially Italian rifugios (refuges), and travel between them along Via Ferrata trails, ladders and metal steps fixed into the rock faces that allow the non-climbers to experience some of the thrill of mountaineers, but in a much safer environment, all the while learning about the region's extraordinary WWI history.

Emilia-Romagna

The story of Emilia-Romagna is intrinsically linked to what was essentially a trunk road. Not particularly glamorous, granted, but the good news is that the road in question - the arrow straight Roman road the Via Aemilia - links several wonderful places, from Parma in the north west of the region to Rimini on the coast. Speaking of roads, anyone thinking about Emilia-Romagna holidays should consider a road trip from one end to the other to enjoy much that makes Italy great - fabulous food, fascinating cultural treasures, fast cars and fantastic scenery, and all this despite most people's inability to point to the place on a map. It might be a stretch to call this 'secret Italy', but Emilia-Romagna remains a seriously underrated region.

Genoa and Ligurian Coast

From captivating city streets to colourful cliffside fishing villages, Genoa and Liguria holidays immerse you in some of Italy’s most sublime scenery. The often overlooked city of Genoa in the north is an underrated gem. Both gritty and glorious, it blends the unassuming air of an ancient port with a maze-like medieval centre and humble seaside suburbs. In the heart of the old city, the cobbled caruggi (narrow streets) conceal unexpected delights, including grand galleries within former palaces and unpretentious eateries serving exceptional cuisine. The capital of the Liguria region, Genoa is perhaps best known as the gateway to the Italian Riviera, where Ligurian lovelies like chic Portofino and the pastel-hued Cinque Terre await. Come for the sea views, the seafood and the oh-so-Italian sense of sophistication. Stay to discover the secrets of la dolce vita (the sweet life), which is lived to the full in Liguria.

Italian Lakes

From Pliny the Younger to Tennyson and Shelley, the beauty of the Italian Lakes has drawn admirers for centuries. This beautiful region of Northern Italy has plenty to entice: cinematic scenery, elegant towns and plenty of luxurious hotels lining the waterfronts. Lake Maggiore, Lake Como and Lake Garda are the real showstoppers with their dreamy location at the foot of the Alps paired with a balmy Mediterranean climate that draws holidaymakers year after year. Swimming and sailing interspersed with long lunches and afternoon wanders around sleepy markets are musts on Italian Lakes holidays, all - of course - documented with plenty of envy-inducing photographs of this picture-perfect paradise.

Naples & Amalfi Coast

Bursting at the seams with rich history, buzzing culture and some of Italy’s best food (which is really saying something), Naples champions indulgence and enjoyment to the max. Get your fill of history with a trip to the imposing Ovo Castle and the Museum of Archeology with its vast collection of artifacts from Greek, Roman and Renaissance times. Wander through the city’s tangle of streets and enjoy a long lunch to really savour the region’s flavours: garlicky spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) and silky parmigiana di melanzane (eggplant parmigiana). Indulge in some retail therapy and seriously impressive architecture at the mall Umberto I and once you feel like you’ve gotten the lay of the land in Naples, drive to the nearby Amalfi Coast, one of the most evocative names in travel. A stay on the Amalfi Coast holiday incorporates dramatic cliffs plunging into the sea and charming towns dotted at regular intervals, making it a serious contender for Europe's most romantic spot. All together now - amo, amas, Amalfi. A Naples and Amalfi Coast holiday is guaranteed to leave you feeling well and truly relaxed and pampered (and perhaps a few pounds heavier).

Puglia

Puglia has attracted more than its fair share of travel magazine column inches in the last couple of years, yet still remains relatively untouched and well worth exploring. Packed full of ancient towns, dramatic Romanesque churches, dreamy windswept beaches and wild open plains, Puglia (the heel of Italy’s boot) is well worth a visit on a trip to Italy. This southern region is enclosed by the Adriatic Sea on one side and the Ionian Sea on the other and is populated by plenty of whitewashed hill towns that are perfectly situated to take in the stunning sea views. On your Puglia holidays, travel through the vast plains of Tavoliere di Puglia in the north and see the iconic beehive shaped dry stone trulli houses in the picturesque, UNESCO World Heritage Site of Alberobello. Take a tour of the charming cities of Otranto, Leuca, Bari and Lecce and feel like you’ve stepped back in time on a visit to the ancient fortified hill town of Matera, a place so ancient in look and feel it was used to film several scenes of Mel Gibson's 'The Passion of the Christ.'

Rome & Abruzzo

Words alone cannot do justice to Rome. Those who haven't been should do so as a matter of priority, while those who have will need little or no persuading to return. Walk back in time through the Forum of ancient Rome to the Colosseum, witness the staggering opulence of St. Peter's Basilica, or take a twilight passeggiata stroll in the Pincio Gardens above the Piazza del Populo for a spectacular view over the city. Everyone from Caesar Augustus to Michelangelo and Mussolini has left their mark on this extraordinary city. From the evocative Appian Way, where Spartacus' men were crucified, to Bernini's fountains and Fellini's film La Dolce Vita, Rome is a phenomenal concentration of history, legend and artistic masterpieces. Inject some culture into your Rome holiday by exploring its incredible architecture, bustling food markets and piazzas, and its myriad historical sites, or simply throw yourself into that dolce vita lifestyle as you enjoy long al fresco lunches, wonderfully indulgent gelatos and strong shots of fresh coffee in sleepy streetside cafes. Explore on foot to get a real sense of the city while you get pleasantly lost in the maze of cobbled streets and saunter through stunning piazzas. Visit the famous seven hills that are rich in ancient ruins and don’t miss a guided tour of the Colosseum where you can learn about the fearsome gladiators who fought there.

Sardinia

Fly into Olbia in the north of Sardinia, and on the road to the Costa Smeralda it's easy to see why this stretch of coastline is reputed to be one of the most beautiful on earth. After a few days R&R at one of the excellent hotels, rent a boat for the day to explore the beautiful Maddalena Islands or go diving on the wrecks of old Roman cargo ships. The hilly inland area is also worth exploration as it is particularly unspoilt. Sardinia is renowned as a summer playground for adults indulging in a luxury holiday, and while undoubtedly being a destination that appeals to grown up kids, it's also pretty ideal for actual kids. There are miles of beautiful coastline to explore, you can hire a boat and visit the weird rock formations at Capo Testa or stop off to swim or snorkel in the famously translucent green waters to be found in dozens of secluded coves. There are also other water sports on offer during your Sardinia holidays, particularly sailing and kite surfing, and terrestrial sports such as world class oligarch-spotting. This is best enjoyed of an evening in Porto Cervo checking out the none-too-subtle display of wealth as the mega-yachts jockey for position at the harbour.

Sicily

The gorgeous Italian island of Sicily in the heart of the Mediterranean offers visitors a truly tempting treat of stunning scenery. From the towering Mount Etna (one of Europe’s highest active volcanoes) to craggy mountains and sparkling seas, there is plenty to feast your eyes on in this beautiful corner of the world. Delve into the island’s historic cities from Agrigento and Selinunte on the south-western coast, to some of the finest Greek ruins in Europe and the charming capital of Palermo in the north. Visit the hilltop town of Taormina for hiking trails up the neighbouring Mount Etna and hop across to the far less well-known Aeolian Islands, a collection of tiny gems well loved by Italians, but rarely heard of elsewhere. The island of Lipari is a particular gem, with its pretty, pastel-coloured seafront and bustling port. Sicily holidays will leave you feeling well and truly relaxed and with a camera full of envy-inducing photos.

Tuscany

Nestled along the banks of the Arno river in northeastern Tuscany, Florence is a compact city that oozes culture. World-class art, haute-couture boutiques and a rich culinary tradition combine to make this UNESCO World Heritage site a truly special place to visit. Wander along its narrow cobbled streets, duck into museums overflowing with paintings and sculptures, and savour the flavours of the region with a richly indulgent bowl of Papardelle al Cinghiale (homemade pasta in a wild boar sauce). During Florence and Tuscany holidays, make sure to visit the famous Uffizi Gallery which houses some of the world’s finest masterpieces and spend an afternoon browsing the chic boutiques of the Via Tornabuoni district of Santa Maria Novella.

Umbria

In the shadow of its neighbour Tuscany, the ‘green heart’ of Italy beats quietly out of sight. Protected by the natural ramparts of its steep reliefs, Umbria remains relatively undiscovered, revealing itself only to those who venture into its chestnut forests, wander along its picturesque riverbanks and linger in its hilltop villages long enough to savour the flavours of the land. Umbria is both a foodie paradise and a region brimming with history in the form of medieval towns, palaces and churches. When travellers aren’t busy exploring stunning natural landscapes, Umbria holidays might involve truffle hunting on the outskirts of Perugia or marvelling at Assisi’s fresco-filled basilica. What’s not to love?

Venice & Veneto

The city known as La Serenissima ('The Most Serene') has beguiled travellers for more than a millennium. Ever since a group of plucky refugees fleeing Atilla the Hun's rampaging hordes decided to make these marshy and (thankfully no longer) malaria-ridden islands their home, Venice has defied convention. This place that swapped roads for canals and cars for gondolas is unbearably romantic at every turn. Crumbling facades float on rippling waters, gondolas glide serenely by and the tangle of streets leaves you happily lost in a matter of minutes. Explore by foot or jump aboard a vaporetto (public water bus) to get around Venice-style. Meander through the city at night when the warm lights dance on the water’s surface and hop across to the islands of Murano and Burano to escape the business of the city. As part of your Venice holiday, spend a lazy afternoon at the beach at the Lido di Venezia, a six-mile long sandbar, and soak up the dreamy views across to Venice.

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Italy Testimonials

11 reviews
4.5 / 5
"Rome with the children was such a wonderful experience and so reassuring to have the organisation and back up of Original Travel to support it. The Concierge was excellent, always available and ready to help. "
Leonora - London
Published on 18th April 2024
"From start to finish the trip was exceptional and Harriet and the staff at Original Travel had everything laid out perfectly in advance so traveling from city to city was seamless. In addition the services provided by your concierges in each area were outstanding. The app is great and we used it constantly to keep up with our daily schedule. Between the tours and transfers between cities the app was an invaluable resource."
Barry - New York City, USA
Published on 14th July 2023
"We had a lovely time - the hotel was gorgeous - very comfy and in the perfect spot and they were very helpful and nice. Our two guides were excellent - very knowledgeable and interesting. It was great - all round! We were lucky and had beautiful weather too (blue sky and sun - but freezing, which was great). Thank you so much for everything - it was all perfect (transfer was great too)."
Alexandra - London
Published on 7th January 2020
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Our Italy
specialists

Our talented team of consultants - one of whom is a born and bred Italian and one who's married to an Italian - have the insider intel to tailor your dream escape to Europe's little boot. Our in-country Concierges, available throughout your trip, are also full of handy knowledge to make your trip run smoothly, from where to park in tiny towns to organising QR codes for Venice's visitor fee. Our team of guides provide further secrets of the city's crowded corners for a tailored, exclusive experience, such as hard-to-come-by Vatican tickets during the day's quietest hours.

Useful information for your Italy holiday

What can I experience in Italy?

Rome’s Colosseum, Florence’s Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore, Venice’s Grand Canal and Pisa’s Leaning Tower are just some of Italy’s most sought-after attractions. Put simply, Italy is worth exploring from top to toe, so it’s unlikely you’ll want to stay in one place when visiting. Wherever you decide to go, we recommend booking a cooking class to learn about how their world-famous cuisine is made. And don’t forget there’s plenty to do in the winter as well - skiing is a popular activity in the Dolomite mountains.

What food and drink should I try in Italy?

Italy is world-renowned for its delicious cuisine. While there may be some dishes that are nationally known, there are lots of lovely regional dishes - fresh seafood from the coast, pizza from Naples, Austrian-Italian alpine fusion dishes in Alto-Aige. And don’t forget dessert. Pass by a gelateria, and they’ll often have dozens of flavours, including traditional Italian flavours such as Bacio, milk chocolate, fior di latte and stracciatella (similar to chocolate chip).

Italian coffee is an important part of the culture, but there are some cultural rules around it too. A milk-based coffee drink should only be ordered before 10am. After 10am, it’s caffe lungo (black coffee with hot water), espresso (a single or double shot of coffee) or macchiato (a single or double shot with a small dollop of milk foam on top) only. As for alcohol, Italian wine is very varied, and you’ll have plenty of choice from all corners of the country no matter what your preference.

What is the national dish of Italy?

Italy’s national dish is Ragu alla Bolognese: a meat sauce made with pork, beef or veal, onions, carrots, pancetta and butter, served with tagliatelle. Variations of the dish are also popular - it’s not unusual to see the sauce prepared with tomato paste or served with spaghetti instead of tagliatelle.

What is Italy famous for?

Playing host to some of the world’s most iconic architecture, well-known artworks and universally adored dishes, this boot-shaped European nation has a lot going for it. There’s the fascinating history of Ancient Rome and its associated buildings, like the Colosseum and the remains of Villa Del Casale and Pompeii. Many moons ago, Shakespeare brought attention to the country, specifically Verona, when he set his tragedy Romeo and Juliet there. These days, you certainly won’t go hungry while you’re in Italy, which is famous for its flavoursome cuisine.

What can you find in Italy that you won’t find elsewhere?

If there’s anything we can learn from Italy, it’s how to embrace the ‘dolce vita’. Think coffee and biscotti in the morning sun (a serious tradition), outstanding feats of architecture and intense natural beauty from cypress-lined valleys in Chianti country to Capri’s azure sea. Admire the country’s extravagant architecture, be it Venice’s Saint Mark’s Basilica, Rome’s imperious Colosseum or the handsome baroque towns of Puglia. The city of Florence feels like one huge outdoor gallery with Renaissance architecture and a museum for every type of art lover, while Milan’s shopping area is just as beautiful as its haute couture. There’s a reason why Italians wax lyrical about their food - their culinary know-how is second to none. It’s all too easy to eat yourself silly with freshly grated truffle pasta, cuttlefish risotto and home-baked grissini at your fingertips. You’ll find hotel after hotel brimming with opulence and that charismatic Italian charm or an Italian Riveria home to quaint brightly coloured fishing villages and uber stylish resorts and so much more when you chose to holiday here.


Who is Italy best for?

Art fanatics can gaze upon the statue of David and study original Caravaggio’s in the likes of Florence, or peruse the iconic art of Rome’s Vatican City. If it’s an enviable Instagram page you’re after, then head to the Amalfi Coast, best for people watching, and frequented by the gliteratti. Sun worshippers should consider the beaches of Sardinia and Sicily that combine white sands with delicious cuisine and ancient archaeological sites. Food lovers can swoon over handmade spaghetti accompanied by a glass of chianti (or two). Whether you stay in a family-run farmhouse or glamorous villa, Italy holidays can cater for a wealth of palates, making it the perfect spot for families, fun-seeking groups, intrepid solo explorers and more. Either way you’ll be guaranteed smiling locals, with their bountiful warmth and generosity. They’ll insist you sit a little longer and eat a little more, as you share warmed loaves (dipped in balsamic and fresh olive oil, naturally) and stories of a country well loved.


What are the best ways to discover Italy?

It's no coincidence that we offer more regions in Italy than in any other country on the planet. There is just so much to see and do, from exploring the temples of southern Sicily to hurtling down a ski run in the drop dead gorgeous Dolomites on the northern border with Austria, and a few highlights (Rome, anyone?) in between. With so much to do, Italy is perfect for a tailor-made holiday, enjoyed in complete luxury. Travel the length and breadth in your own time, be it a long weekend away (the perfect time for visitors to explore one of Italy’s artistic cities) or if you have a week to spare then we recommend Venice, Florence and Rome, a winning combination. Add a couple of nights in Milan or a five-night stint on the Amalfi Coast unwinding on the sun-drenched stylish coastline. Even better, spend ten days on a road trip in a classic car travelling through Tuscany, Sicily or around the cinematic Italian lakes. Pizza lovers can make their pilgrimage to the mecca that is Naples, climb skywards towards the cliff-lined town of Sorrento or retreat to the tranquil haven of Lake Garda. However you holiday, you will be spoilt for choice with towns to explore, beach days spent basking in the Mediterranean warmth and view upon view of rolling hillsides and lakes.


When is the best time to visit Italy?

Arguably the best time to visit Italy is during the spring when keen travellers can enjoy the comfortable temperatures blessing March to May, with the promise of fewer crowds and a rebirth of the country's lush green vegetation. Making it the perfect time to flock to Lake Garda or Lake Como, in search of serenity and Italian escapism. Of course, the wildflowers in early April and climbing temperatures throughout the later months of spring, until the end of June, are equally captivating for those looking for a true Mediterranean experience. Winter brings with it a snow coated inland and skiers' paradise, with festively lit towns that come alive at night, confirming that no matter the season this is an area worth exploring.


Special things to do in Italy

Step aboard the Orient Express

Embark on one of the greatest train rides in the world. The Venice Simplon-Orient Express covers Verona, Venice, Paris and London depending on what route you choose. Enjoy old-world decadence as Pullman-style carriages gently pull you through picturesque European landscapes, serving up bellini-fuelled brunches and three-course champagne dinners complete with spotless silver service.


Under the Tuscan Sun

Take to the cypress trees and swathes of olive groves. Tuscany beckons with rural languor. Think grand Italian villas, hilltop fortresses and superlative sangiovese. Best explored on a road trip so you can pause at quaint wineries or take part in a spot of truffle hunting as you please.


Explore Abruzzo

Backed by mountains and engulfed in greenery (its named the greenest region in Europe), Abruzzo boasts a rare authenticity, which is undeniably captivating. Perfect for hiking, dips in the sea and unapologetically rustic but exquisite cuisine.


Hiking in Italy

Whether you want to hike the rolling Tuscan Hills bedding down in a rural villa, or challenge yourself along via ferrata routes in the towering Dolomites sleeping in remote rifugios (mountain lodges), we can arrange a trekking adventure entirely tailored to your needs.

Best places to go in Italy

Family Europe Florence Adriatic Sea Family Summer to Europe Summer to Europe Europe Adventure Slow Travel Europe Train Travel Europe Umbria Dolomites Via Ferrata Culture Europe UNESCO Travel in Europe City Breaks in Europe Cinque Terre Europe by Car Europe Road Trips Family Florence Milan Responsible Travel Europe
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