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Fearlessly Italy

17 Best Italy Tours For Top and Hassle-Free Holidays (2024)

Italy is a premier vacation destination that provides lavish relaxation, culinary experiences, and luxurious delights to everyone who visits it. Filled with history, culture, natural beauty, and culinary masterpieces, Italy is the perfect travel destination with a little bit for everyone, offering everything from family Italy tours to luxury Italy tours and more to encompass the needs of every vacationing family, couple, or individual.

You can experience expert-led travel through many different areas in Italy and do several different activities, including culinary tours, wine tastings, Italy hiking tours, Italy train tours, and more. These tours relieve you of the stress and difficulties of planning independent travels as well as provide you with a group and advisor to enjoy your tour. If you’re contemplating booking a new vacation, consider hopping on one of these affordable Italy tours for one of the best Italy tours you’ll ever take.

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Best Private Italy Tours – Top Tour Companies And Italy Trip Reviews

Iconic italy tour by g adventures.

This two-week exploration of Italy will take you through the cultural highlights of Italy and its ancient past. Connect to a buried civilization with a visit to Pompeii and stop to admire incredible Renaissance-era treasures in Venice and Florence . The Coast of Amalfi calls out with oceanside views and cliff-side villages. Your fourteen-day tour will cover all the best parts of Italy, blending ancient experiences with contemporary histories to create a true Italian experience of a lifetime.

Dig into agriturismo in Amalfi by joining a cooking class on a terrace overlooking the Mediterranean in a 17th-century monastery that is dripping in culture and culinary goodness. Stop at one of Italy’s famous lemon orchards and marvel at cliffside views of the sea just beyond the rolling lemon fields. Your tour begins in Venice and stops through the Cinque Terre before heading to Florence. From Florence, you’ll travel to Naples to sample pizza and more incredible local history before stays in Sorrento, Pompeii, and Amalfi. Finish in Rome for the capstone to an incredible two weeks of la dolce vita in Italy.

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Ultimate Italy Tour with G Adventures

Take in a wide variety of delights throughout the Italian landscape with this Ultimate Italy tour designed by G Adventures. Visit the villages of Cinque Terre and the medieval splendor of Tuscany for a range of experiences that take you through contemporary and historical Italy. Marvel at piazzas and winding roads in the Italian countryside, the canals of Venice, and the elegant villas on Lake Como. Take in the historic grandeur of Rome and soak in the remnants of the Renaissance in Florence, all while eating and drinking to your heart’s content.

This two-week tour takes you from Rome to Venice, with stops in many other classic locales across the Italian countryside. Montepulciano, Siena, Florence, Pisa , Cinque Terre, and Lake Como are all on the bucket list here, and travel by train makes for a smooth and comfortable ride you’ll enjoy thanks to the rolling scenery and hills outside your car window. Soak in many different cultural and culinary delights and experience a free day or two to visit your favorite moments uninterrupted for the perfect customizable trip.

Italy Real Food Adventure with Intrepid Travel

Uncover the secrets of delicious Italian cuisine while traveling across the Italian landscape from Venice to Rome. Visit regional locations and take in seasonal and fresh ingredients for a delicious and authentic tasting food tour that’s inspired by days of the year. One of the best Italy food tours , your trip won’t just be limited to pizza and pasta- you’ll get to enjoy every part of Italy’s classic food traditions here thanks to the unforgettable restaurants and dining experience with your experienced guides.

Your guided tour travels from Venice to Rome, with pit stops in San Gimignano and Bologna (and a loop around Modena). You’ll experience four incredible staple cuisines in the Italian culinary landscape: Rome, Tuscany, Emilia Romagna, and the Veneto, and get to taste fresh ingredients at farm stays that let you watch fresh wine and olive production as well as original balsamic vinegar handcrafted by local chefs. Take hands-on cooking classes, roll your own pasta, and prepare authentic meals guided by trained chefs in the heart of Italy for the perfect Italy food tour package.

Italian Glory – 13 Days with Trafalgar

A fantastic Italy tour package of almost two weeks touring the most famous Italian marvels. Starting in stylish Milan, you will be visiting popular sites like Lake Maggiore and Verona before heading to the world-famous Venice.

Next is the birthplace of Renaissance, art-filled Florence. Once you have explored the wonderful Tuscan capital, you will head to the Amalfi Coast for a VIP-style vacation around the famous coast and Positano. On these days, you will also visit the archaeological ruins of Pompeii, the town destroyed by the Vesuvius in 79AD.

After the Amalfi Coast, it’s time to visit Rome, the wonderful Italian capital, filled with history, a rich culture, and delicious restaurants. Apart from the wonders of Ancient Rome, you will also be visiting Vatican City.

Grand Italian Experience – 17 Days with Trafalgar

In more than two weeks, the Grand Italian Experience Italy tour package with Trafalgar will be your trip of a lifetime.

You will be visiting all the most famous Italian wonders, from the immortal ruins of Ancient Rome to the incredible art masterpieces of the Vatican to the mesmerizing art galleries of Florence.

But that’s not all. This fantastic tour will take you to the northern city of Verona, to experience the romantic vibe of Venice, and to the fashionable city of Milan.

Don’t worry, you will also be experiencing the Dolce Vita of Southern Italy in the gorgeous Capri island and sunny Sorrento. To carry on the adventurous path, you will also be viewing the odd stone buildings of Alberobello in the Puglia region, and visiting Assisi in Umbria. Heading north, you will visit Lake Maggiore, La Spezia, and Pisa to see the famous Leaning Tower and Piazza dei Miracoli.

Taste of Italy – 8 Days with Expat Explore Travel

This Italy culinary tour is designed to give you a taste of Italy’s food and a taste of Italy’s scenery all in one convenient eight day tour package. Experience the history and architecture of cultural giants like ancient Rome, the Umbrian city of Orvieto, the Tower of Pisa, and more. Your eight day tour includes a combination of scheduled and free days to allow you a good combination of personal exploration and guided experiences. Take in Venice, Rome, Orvieto, Pisa , Florence , Tuscany, and more, all with an experienced guide who can give you pointers and fresh experiences you’ll never forget.

Several delicious meals are also included as part of your tour, including a delicious Tuscan dinner in the heartland of the Tuscany wine region. Sip on freshly crafted wines or spoon traditional gelato into your mouth after a long day of travel with your friends and family. Accommodations are spacious, relaxing, and enjoyable, making your experience one you’ll never forget.

Sardinia & Corsica Sailing Adventure By Intrepid Travel

For the nautically inclined, the coasts of Italy are some of the most beautiful places to sail you’ll ever find. This sailing tour of Italy offers a relaxing and stunning water-based trip that sees you sail across the clearest and bluest waters you’ve ever seen, island hopping, snorkeling, and swimming through the coasts of Italy with relaxation and peace of mind on every trip. Start in Sardinia, Italy, and swim in the crystal clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea as a peaceful break during non-sailing moments.

You’ll explore the ancient citadel of Bonifacio off the coast of Corsica, France, hike the wild landscapes of Isola Caprera, and cycle around La Maddalena for a lively and energetic real-life experience. Experience life on the sea on your sailing yacht and get used to the paradise of white sand beaches and long days in the sun. Relax on the beaches at Isola Lavezzi and Olbia or sunbathe on the deck of your yacht while you travel from locale to locale, making for the perfect nautical adventure for one and all.

Amalfi Coast: Hike & Kayak By Intrepid Travel

This is one of the best all-inclusive holiday tours to Italy because it features a little bit of physical activity for everyone. Situated on the glamorous and stately Amalfi coast, booking this tour package will help you visit Italy’s spectacular coastline on foot in several different ways. Begin in Naples by hiking across the sparkling Mediterranean valleys up the Amalfi Coast. Tour through Naples’ hidden catacombs, take in traditional pizza, and hike up the hills to head into the nature surrounding Naples before heading back down to the coasts.

Other incredible visits include the ancient, volcano-buried city of Pompeii, the jaw-dropping Sentiero degli Dei (the most scenic trail in Italy), and the ominous Valley of the Mills, with mysteriously cool temperatures all year long. Hop a boat or kayak to the island of Capri and explore secluded coves, grottos, and more spectacular Mediterranean scenery before paddling back to shore (or back along the shore). Designed for fitness fans who aren’t afraid of a little physical activity in search of a great adventure, this hiking tour in Italy shows you the Amalfi Coast as a stunning destination for all kinds of tourists and travelers.

Italy Family Holiday by Intrepid Travel

Planning to book your next Italy family holiday? The Italy Family Holiday tour combines family favorite locations with age-appropriate activities for one and all, finding ways to bond your entire family together over history, legacy, and new experiences. Italy will come to life before your family’s eyes with these cultural expeditions into ancient history. Try delicious food, visit historic landmarks, soak in the beaches, and hike the hills of Italy together. With the planning all taken care of, you and your family can just relax and sink into your new experiences across Italy together.

Your tour begins in Rome with a historic trip through the city of ancient wonders. Visit iconic sites like the Colosseum together and enjoy the first of what will surely be many delicious Italian meals before heading over to Pompeii for an incredible blast from the past. Discover the treasures of this buried civilization together and wonder with your family what might have been before heading through Minori and Sorrento for food-based agricultural travels that will take you through the cliffs and beaches of the Amalfi coast and the fields and farmlands of inland Italy. Your eight-day tour is sure to make treasured memories your family will never forget.

Cycle Tuscany by Intrepid Travel

For cycling fans, the Cycle Tuscany tour is an Italy cycling tour paradise on Earth. The picturesque hills and olive groves of Tuscany come alive in an elegant and exciting cycling adventure from Florence to Pisa, with stops in Vinci, Barga, Garganana, and Lucca. Each stop sees quaint villages, astonishing mountain views, famous locales, and historic sights, including Italy’s oldest bakery. Follow the Serchio River on your pedaling path, with stops in Leonardo da Vinci’s home city and Tuscan vineyards for a rewarding finish after a long day of work.

This tour creates a stunning escape from the ‘tourist traps’ of other popular Italy tours, allowing you to experience a more natural version of life in Italy. Your cycle will help you travel more naturally and unobtrusively, allowing you to blend into the city around you and explore uninterrupted by other public transport modes. Soak in the sights and sounds of Italy in real time and enjoy the comfortable breeze of the sea across your face as you cycle through the hills of Italy.

Rome to Amalfi by Intrepid Travel

Take a focused, express trip along the Amalfi coast that takes you through some highlights of southern Italy with this fast-paced adventure that’s compelling sightseeing and culinary experiences. One of the best South Italy tours , this trip exposes you to some of Rome’s most famous landmarks, including the Colosseum, Vatican City, the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican Museums , St. Peter’s Basilica , and so much more. Eat pizza in Naples, the original home of pizza, and stumble across the Eternal City of Pompeii, a city frozen in time after a devastating volcanic eruption in 79 AD.

Travel by train from Rome to Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento, and end in Amalfi. Your train ride takes you right along the coast, allowing you to take in the sea and soak in views of the Amalfi Coast every day of your trip. Explore local Italian history in the coastal town of Sorrento and enjoy the history of the olive groves that wall the Amalfi Coast. Taste delicious local food and drinks and sip espresso among the locals to truly experience what Italians call the sweet life.

Lake Magic in Northern Italy by Falk Tours

This tour is for lake lovers. You will start from Lake Garda, Italy’s biggest lake, and end in the gorgeous Lago Maggiore with a stop in the famous Lake Como.

One of the favorite North Italy tours , each stop features many historical, cultural, and natural attractions that make it a stunning vacation destination for all. Local squares, foggy views of mountain ranges, ruined castles, and old homes and villas- all of these are situated strategically throughout your tour for a mysterious and elegant look at Italy’s past. End each day with a delicious dinner and local wines and sleep comfortably in spacious accommodations before waking up to head back out for more adventures the following day.

Italy Experience by Intrepid Travel

This ten-day gastronomic masterpiece tour will take you through some of the best eats and experiences in Italy. Cover every part of Italy’s rich culinary history in this ten-day adventure that sees you cross over most of Italy in your quest to taste all of Italy’s most delicious foods. See the real sights of some of Italy’s most famous cities while tasting your way through Italy’s gastronomic map, enjoying your Italian adventure with every sense in your body.

Your tour kicks off with two days in Venice, eating delicious chocolate and gelato while also touring the canals and the rich Renaissance-era history that remains enshrined in the series of islands. Next, head to La Spezia and Cinque Terre for a colorful and whimsical look at Italy’s local gastronomic heritage. Stop through Pisa and Florence to try heavenly balsamic vinegar and pestos fresh from the plants before traveling through Perugia and Spello for even more cooking masterpieces. End your culinary journey with two days in Rome that combine delicious eats with historic sightseeing for an unforgettable Italian experience.

Cinque Terre: Hike, Bike, & Kayak

Explore the playful coastal village of Cinque Terra with fresh eyes with this guided tour among the cliff-top villages of the Cinque Terre. Vivid, multicolored houses, bright sea, and heavy sun turn the entire village into a brightly colored kaleidoscope of light and color. The many villages and neighborhoods within the province of Cinque Terre are full of color, life, and vibrant local history, making it a great place to visit as a family or on your own. Cinque Terre is known as one of the world’s most romantic destinations, so this would make a great honeymoon tour or luxury Italy tour for lovebirds on vacation.

Adventure through Cinque Terre’s scenic trails on foot, bike, or by boat, all with a local expert to guide you through the best trails and supervise you as you strike out on your own. Soak up the sun on the beach or out on the sea and enjoy delicious and filling Italian meals overlooking spectacular cliffs, colorful villages, and sparkling seas at the end of every day before continuing on your sightseeing plans. Whatever you discover, it is guaranteed to be romantic, colorful, and historic in the classic Cinque Terre.

Italy by High-Speed Train by Flag Travel Holidays

Want to pack as much of Italy into your sightseeing experience as possible? This high-speed train tour is one of the best Italy train tours available and provides an all-inclusive sightseeing experience that takes you through all the highlights of Italy in just seven days. Your six-destination train vacation takes you through many historic locales throughout Italy as well as creating space for orientation tours and historic sightseeing in each of the locations you visit.

Your tour will begin in Rome and includes a highly sought-after Vatican tour that takes you through the holy city. Next, travel to Florence and live through the last remains of the Renaissance era before moving on to Tuscany. Soak in the food and wine of this historic culinary region before continuing forward to Venice, including a walking tour of the famous San Marco Basilica. Depart from Venice feeling satisfied with your crash course in the greatest history of Italy and plan ahead for booking your next trip to return!

Explore Southern Italy by Intrepid Travel

The Southern region of Italy is sadly unexplored and undiscovered by many classic tourist destinations. This private Italy tour is designed to take you on an unforgettable, off-the-beaten-path journey through the Southern aisle of Italy, beginning with the famed Amalfi coast and crossing the country to end in the southernmost slice of the Adriatic Ocean in Lecce. Soak in local history and rare stories of Italian culture in small and comfortable villages or join sophisticated diners in Puglia for a classy approach to your tour.

Beginning in Amalfi, your tour will take you by train to Trani, a sophisticated spot on the opposite Adriatic Coast. Next, travel to Matera and Alberobello, enjoying old Roman ruins and faded Italian architecture before dipping into the old town life preserved in Bari’s Basilica di San Nicola. Travel around the so-called heel of Italy and dine on Italy’s finest southern cuisine, enjoying the views of the Adriatic and your time in the secret Southern side of Italy.

Highlights of Charming Sicily – 8 Days by Click Tours

Eat, drink, walk, and bike your way through all the best and most historic parts of charming Sicily with this luxurious 8-day tour that allows a deep dive into the history and legacy of Sicily. Get a taste of island life with this deep dive into the Mediterranean city, including panoramic views of the nearby islands and plenty of other natural wonders to explore, not to mention the delicious food and wine offerings available in the culinary capital of Southern Italy. Swing through Palermo, Monreale, Agrigento, Modica, and Taormina for peeks into the local island life as well as exposure to exciting local histories and traditions.

This close look at Sicily will take you through many different areas of Sicilian culture, including historic, culinary, natural, relaxing, and ocean-side views. Visit the coast of Erice and Trapani and sip the best fresh seafood and wine before heading through Taormina to visit the historic Mount Etna volcano. Explore classical and baroque architecture and take a deep dive into Roman ruins for a historical component to your trip.

Traveling to Italy is an exciting but potentially overwhelming experience for a few different reasons. With such a big country and so much history, culture, and natural wonders to explore, it can be hard to know where to start. For that reason, taking guided and preplanned tours instead of traveling independently can help you focus your trip on specific locations, theming your tour in a specific interest area and providing you with an expert guide who can help answer your questions and keep your interests at the forefront of their recommendations for your activities.

Booking expert guides also provides you with a seamless connection to the local community. If you don’t speak Italian, having a fluent local guide with direct connections to the community you’re traveling through will help you navigate your experience abroad. They can get you better deals, make sure you’re not being scammed by local townspeople, and provide you with the inside scoop on different travel and tourist destinations that you can visit and tour. In the event of an emergency, they can also serve as an advocate and translator for you, helping to connect you to any of the resources you might need.

Booking expert tours, whether these are 10-day Italy trips or daily food tours of Florence , means trusting people who know Italy to recommend the best places for you to visit and the most efficient combination of sightseeing stops for you to enjoy. Your pre-planned tour has been carefully managed down to the last second by an experienced team who knows what they’re doing.

This removes a huge burden off your shoulders, taking the nitty-gritty daily details and removing that responsibility from you so you can spend more time enjoying yourself and relaxing in your surroundings instead of worrying about getting from place to place. By trusting a tour guide from one of Italy’s best tours, you’re committing to a stress-free, exciting vacation that will provide you with a thorough look at the best Italy has to offer.

7 thoughts on “17 Best Italy Tours For Top and Hassle-Free Holidays (2024)”

What a wonderful article to find for someone thinking seriously about visiting such a beautiful country. My wife has always dreamed of visiting Vatican City and Rome. I spent a year of my youth in Naples at 8 years old. Now that I am 75 it is good to see so many options besides hiking, biking, and climbing. There were a lot of options shared in this article. Thank you.

Thank you for your kind words, Bob! I am glad you found this article helpful and that you’re excited to visit Italy with your wife. There truly is no shortage of amazing things to see and do here, so I hope you and your wife come and have a fantastic time.

Ciao Angela, these are amazing tours in Italy, I also live in Italy and I’ve done most of these except Sardinia which I’m looking forward to taking the tours. Thank you for the many options.

Enjoy Sardinia 🙂 If you travel independently, you will definitely need to rent a car…

My first trip to Italy was a group tour. It’s a great way for inexperienced travelers to see many of the top sights of Italy!

True, it might give less freedom of wandering on your own but they take care of all the logistics.

All of these trips sound amazing – it would be a tough choice! I do like the sound of the food one though. Italy is such a beautiful country, I’d happily go back again and again!

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The Best Tour Companies in Italy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are the best tour companies in Italy:

1. Walks of Italy

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

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

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

2. Free Tours by Foot

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Divina Cucina Culinary Experiences

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

5. Travel Italian Style

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

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

6. Intrepid Travel

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

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

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

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

Book Your Trip to Italy: Logistical Tips and Tricks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Italy Tours and Trips 2024/2025

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

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Ultimate Italy

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Jewels of Italy

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Best of Italy

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Gems Of Rome & Florence

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• Activities Food tours & Local culture Food tours , Local culture , Museum and gallery visits & City sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='7470'>+2 more
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,617
• Special Deal (5%): - US$ 132
• Total Price from: US$ 2,485
• Jun 01 Only 2 seats left
• Jun 15 Only 5 seats left

Italian Discovery

• Activities Explorer
• 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 19 10+ seats left

European Highlights

• Activities Mountains & City sightseeing
• Transport Coach, Boat & Train
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,560
• Special Deal (36%): - US$ 909
• Total Price from: US$ 1,651
• Jun 02 Only 7 seats left
• Jun 16 10+ seats left

• Starts Dobbiaco, Italy
• Ends Dobbiaco, Italy

Italian Dolomites Cross-country Skiing

• Activities Skiing and Snowboarding & Winter adventure Skiing and Snowboarding , Winter adventure & Explorer 'data-more-tripid='7624'>+1 more
• Transport Bus
• Age Range 14-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,698
• Special Deal (5%): - US$ 148
• Total Price from: US$ 2,550
• Dec 14 Only 8 seats left
• Dec 21 Only 8 seats left

Traveling to Italy? Chat with a local travel specialist in Italy who can help organize your trip.

Italy Tour Reviews

• Michael May
• Lynette Lee

Traveller Photos for Trips in Italy

Italy — Tour Highlights and Travel Tips

Tour Highlights

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

Travel Tips

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

Popular tour types in Italy

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

Activity-based Italy Tours

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

Popular durations for an Italy trip

Italy tours — Top destinations to visit

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

Peak Season and Low Season Tours in Italy

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

Popular Italy trip travel guide

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

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

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

Tours in Italy - Questions and Answers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Popular Destinations

• Amalfi Coast & Campania Tours
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• Natural landmarks sightseeing tours
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• Trekking and Hiking tours
• Walking tours
• Wine tasting tours

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Best Italy tours with departures in 2024 and beyond

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

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

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

Summary: Best Italy tours: highlights packages

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

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

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

Article contents

Best Highlights of Italy Tours

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

Trafalgar’s Best of Italy

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

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

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

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

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

At a glance:

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

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

G Adventure’s Ultimate Italy

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

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

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

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

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

Contiki’s Simply Italy  

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

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

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

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

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

Best Small Group Tours of Italy

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

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

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

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

Italy Tours on a Budget

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

Costsaver’s Italian Scene

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

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

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

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

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

Intrepid’s Highlights of Italy  

Best for: The best budget small group tour of Italy

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

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

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

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

Best Southern Italy tours

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

Trafalgar’s Southern Italy and Sicily

Best for: exploring the magical Sorrento, Capri and Sicily

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

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

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

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

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

Highly recommended

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

Best Family Tours of Italy

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

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

Best for: Families wanting a first fun taste of Italy

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

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

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

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

Intrepid’s Northern Italy Family Holiday  

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

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

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

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

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

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

Last Minute Trips to Italy

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

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

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

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

5 Reasons to Choose a Guided Tour of Italy

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

How to Choose your Italy Tour

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

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

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

Click to search flight deals on skyscanner

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

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

Things to look for

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

Best sites to look for deals

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

Best Italy Tour Companies Reviewed

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Onwards Through Italy

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

Buon viaggio!

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THE 10 BEST Italy Tours & Excursions

Italy tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Skip-the-Line Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Tuscany Day Trip from Florence: Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa and Lunch at a Winery

2. Small-Group Wine Tasting Experience in the Tuscan Countryside

3. Pompeii Small Group tour with an Archaeologist

4. Colosseum with Arena Access and Ancient Rome Tour

5. Skip-the-Line Group Tour of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica

6. Skip-the-Line Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's | Small Group

7. Colosseum Arena Floor & Ancient Rome | Semi Private Max 6 People

8. Barolo wine Tasting, Alba, UNESCO Castle: Small Group from Milan

9. Capri Blue Grotto Small Group Boat Day Tour From Sorrento

10. Venice In a Day: Basilica San Marco, Doges Palace & Gondola ride

11. Colosseum Arena Floor, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Guided Tour

12. Pompeii, Amalfi Coast and Positano Day Trip from Rome

13. Colosseum & Ancient Rome Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

14. Legendary Venice St. Mark's Basilica with Terrace Access & Doge's Palace

15. Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour

16. Cooking Art Brunelleschi

17. Rome: Skip the Line Vatican, Sistine Chapel, St Peter 6 PAX Group

18. Skip the line: Uffizi and Accademia Small Group Walking Tour

19. Skip the Line: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel with St. Peter's Basilica Access

20. Rome Twilight Trastevere Food Tour

21. Historic Milan Tour with Skip-the-Line Last Supper Ticket

22. Florence Sunset Walking Tour with Wine & Food Tasting

23. Florence Vespa Tour: Tuscan Hills and Italian Cuisine

24. Rome: Guided Group Tour of Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

25. Venice: St.Mark's Basilica & Doge's Palace Tour with Tickets

26. Venice: Grand Canal by Gondola with Commentary

27. 3 in 1 Cooking Class near Navona: Fettuccine, Ravioli & Tiramisu

28. Florence Pizza or Pasta Class with Gelato Making at a Tuscan Farm

29. Milan: Last Supper and S. Maria delle Grazie skip the line Tickets and Tour

30. Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel Skip the Line & Basilica Tour

What travelers are saying.

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Escorted & Package Tours in Italy

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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19 best rome tours of 2024: food, the vatican & more.

These top-rated Rome tours are led by experts who bring the city's history to life.

The Best Rome Tours

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Considered one of the world's best places to visit , Rome offers countless things to do and an endless selection of delicious cuisine. But given the overwhelming crowds and restricted access to ancient sites, it can be difficult to fully enjoy all that Italy's capital has to offer on your own. That's where a guided tour can help.

Based on recent traveler reviews and expert opinion, we've selected the best tours in Rome. Whether you're gliding past the Colosseum on a Segway or savoring Italian wine in the countryside, you'll benefit from fun and informative guides leading the way.

Fat Tire Tours Rome – Rome Day Segway Tour

Price: From 73 euros (around $79) Duration: 3 hours

Hop on a Segway to see the Eternal City's many sights. After receiving your helmet and tuning in to a quick training session, you'll receive a headset to follow the lively commentary from the experienced Fat Tire Tours guide. Along the three-hour ride, you'll glide past sights like Trajan's Forum, Capitoline Hill and more. Plus, you'll don a virtual reality headset during your stop outside the Colosseum that reconstructs the famous arena's past grandeur. Travelers appreciate that Segways make getting around and seeing Rome's sights easier and more fun, especially for families with older teens. Reviewers also appreciate the engaging local guides.

Tours run daily at 9:30 a.m. Participants must be at least 16 years old and weigh between 100 and 260 pounds. Pregnant women are not permitted on this tour. The company also leads a night tour, which visits the city's illuminated monuments after sundown, among other outings.

Check prices & availability on:

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

Price: Adults from 159 euros (around $173); kids from 144 euros (around $156) Duration: 3 hours

Enjoy swift entry to the Colosseum underground and see the arena floor, Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum on this small-group tour. LivItaly leads up to six travelers to the restricted lower level of the Colosseum, where dungeons once confined gladiators and their opponents. In three hours, learn about ancient Rome's social order on Palatine Hill and everyday life at the forum. Travelers, especially those with children, agree that having a passionate guide with a deep knowledge of Roman history enriched the experience. Reviewers also appreciate the small size of the tour group.

Tours depart daily at multiple times beginning at 12:15 p.m. Book the company's 90-minute Express Colosseum Underground & Arena Tour if you're short on time.

The Best Rome Colosseum Tours

Laura Itzkowitz April 17, 2024

TopBike Rental and Tours – Ancient Appian Way, Catacombs and Aqueducts Park

Price: From 65 euros (about $71) to 89 euros (about $97) Duration: 4 or 6 hours

Travelers have been using the Ancient Appian Way for 2,300 years and you'll traverse it with a friendly, knowledgeable local on this electric bike excursion. Along the ride, you'll pass archeological sites, Christian catacombs and picturesque Roman aqueducts framing the unspoiled countryside. The tour covers roughly 17 miles, 60% of which requires off-road cycling, so TopBike recommends this tour for intermediate riders. Some tourgoers say you might not even break a sweat though, thanks to the ease of the electric bikes.

Tourgoers can opt for the Short Tour (four hours) or the Plus Tour (six hours), the latter of which follows the same path as the shorter excursion and also includes a guided tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus (or Saint Sebastian) and a stop at the Baths of Caracalla. Exact tour departure times vary by season, but you can expect to start around 9 a.m. TopBike also leads cycling tours within the city center.

Gourmetaly – Campo de' Fiori, Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere Rome Food Tour

Price: Adults from 93 euros (around $101); kids from 65 euros (around $71) Duration: 3.5 hours

Tantalize your taste buds on this Rome food tour, which covers three distinct neighborhoods known for their cuisine. As your local guide leads you through the Jewish ghetto, Campo de' Fiori and Trastevere, you'll stop by top-rated food markets, grocery stores, coffee shops, gelaterias and restaurants. Among the food samples included in the tour are fried artichokes, pizza, mozzarella, fresh pasta and gelato. Tours are capped at 12 participants. Reviewers call this a delightful experience thanks to the informative guides who offer an interesting lesson on Roman history, food and culture. They also recommend taking this tour on your first day in Rome to make the most of the guides' recommendations.

Tours are offered several times each day in the morning and afternoon. Note that the afternoon tour does not visit the Campo de' Fiori market (a highlight for many recent tourgoers). In addition to food tours, Gourmetaly also hosts cooking classes.

Eyes of Rome – Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour

Price: Adults from 453 euros (around $491); kids from 35 euros (around $38) Duration: 3 hours

With your private guide leading the way, you'll visit the Colosseum, explore the ancient city along paths that served the Roman Senate and learn the legends of the House of the Vestal Virgins. Tourgoers value the attentive guides who share history and lore in an entertaining way. They also say the tour is well-paced.

Tickets cover pick up at centrally located hotels and skip-the-line admission. Note that prices can vary significantly depending on the number of people in your party. A couple can expect to pay roughly $500 for tickets. Eyes of Rome also conducts private walking tours of the Vatican.

Private Tours of Rome – Vatican & Sistine Chapel Private Tour

Price: From $364 Duration: 3 hours

One of the best tours of the Vatican , this intimate excursion includes skip-the-line access to the complex and a guide who shares the Vatican Museums' top attractions in just three hours. See the artistic highlights in the   Gallery of Ancient Roman Sculptures, the Gallery of Tapestries and famous Raphael paintings. You'll then experience Michelangelo's masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel. Your guide will ensure you see the Pietà   in St. Peter's Basilica, the Apostolic Palace and the famous balcony where the pope delivers his blessings. Travelers praise the excellent guides who tailor the tour to groups' interests and keep children engaged.

Tours operate Monday through Saturday in the morning and afternoon. Ticket prices vary depending on your itinerary and group size. The company suggests you book at least one month in advance to ensure a specialist authorized by the Vatican is available. Private Tours of Rome also offers tours of the Colosseum and the Borghese Gallery, among others.

Courtesy of Roman Food Tours

The Roman Food Tour – Prati By Sunset

Price: Adults from 99 euro (about $107); kids from 90 euros (about $98) Duration: 4 hours

Devoted foodies skip lunch for the more than 20 food and wine pairings on this four-hour evening tour of some of Rome's top eateries. Throughout the tour, you'll feast on gourmet delights, such as homemade pasta, pizza, fresh cheeses and gelato. More importantly, you'll learn tips to enhance your knowledge and pleasure in Italian cuisine. Travelers praise the expertise of the fun guides who explain each dish's origin and quality with gusto.

Tours, which are offered daily multiple times starting at 3:30 p.m. The Roman Food Tour also offers day tours and cooking classes.

Rex-Tours – Rome City Segway Tour

Price: From 79 euros (about $86) Duration: 3 hours

Roll in comfort past many of ancient Rome's major sights on this three-hour Segway tour. Rex-Tours' expert guides lead up to eight travelers for an effortless overview of must-see landmarks, such as Capitoline Hill and the Colosseum. Reviewers applaud the knowledgeable guides who offer a wealth of information without overwhelming travelers. What's more, guides provide restaurant recommendations and tips for making the most of your visit to Rome, according to tourgoers.

The Rome City Segway Tour departs twice daily at 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Travelers also recommend enjoying the company's evening Segway tour if you're visiting during the summer and need a break from the peak daytime heat.

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Eating Europe – Twilight Trastevere Rome Food Tour

Price: Adults from 114 euros (about $123); kids from 81 euros (about $88) Duration: 4 hours

Travelers suggest you skip lunch before this evening walking tour of Trastevere, so that you can savor the street food and sweet treats served at each stop. As you meander through the neighborhood (often compared to New York City's Greenwich Village), you'll enjoy mouthwatering bites of everything from classic supplì , or fried risotto balls stuffed with mozzarella, to porchetta, homemade pasta and gelato. Foodie guides share each chef's story and culinary traditions, along with tips on how to find and make the best Roman cuisine on your own. Reviewers praise the guides for their insider knowledge and gush about the quality of the food and wine featured on the tour.

Tours run daily at multiple times and there is a maximum of 12 people per tour. Eating Europe also operates a tour that explores Testaccio, considered Rome's "original foodie neighborhood."

Rolling Rome – Rome Squares & Fountains Golf Cart Tour

Price: From 100 euros (about $108) Duration: 3 hours

Avoid Rome's congested traffic and keep the family entertained on this three-hour, private golf cart tour of the city. Whizz past major sights in the historical center and piazzas Venezia, Navona and del Popolo, plus the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and more. Since the tour is customizable, you can also ask the guide to take you to lesser-known spots in the city – a highlight for reviewers. Along with the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides, reviewers appreciate the golf cart's ability to avoid traffic using Rome's narrow back lanes.

Tours, which can accommodate up to seven participants, depart daily at 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. One week's advance reservation is recommended. Rolling Rome also offers daylong golf cart tours, as well as a variety of Segway and electric bike tours.

Food Tours of Rome – Jewish Ghetto and Campo de' Fiori by Night Food Tour

Price: Adults from 89 euros (about $96); kids from 75 euros (about $81) Duration: 4 hours

Combine sightseeing with snacking and drinking on this evening tour of the Jewish ghetto and the Campo Marzio area. Fun, knowledgeable guides make seven stops for food and wine between explaining major historic attractions like Piazza Navona and Campo de' Fiori. Stop in delis, family-run shops and restaurants to sample gourmet cheeses and hams, pasta, espresso, and gelato. First-time visitors especially appreciate this informative introduction to the city and the family-run vendors featured on the tour.

Tours depart nightly at 6 p.m. Food Tours of Rome can accommodate some special diets with advance notice. The company also offers a dessert and sightseeing tour of Rome, among various other options.

What A Life Tours – Skip-the-line Vatican Small Group Tour

Price: Adults from $87; kids from $82 Duration: 3 hours

Travelers say this tour is worthwhile thanks to the personable guides, who bring the history of the Vatican Museums to life. Reviewers also appreciate that groups are capped at 12 participants, which they say creates an intimate experience that fosters engagement between guides and tourgoers. You'll start the three-hour tour with skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums to admire highlights like the Gallery of Maps and the Pinecone Courtyard. Then, you'll head to the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica to marvel at Michelangelo’s Pietà. Along the way, your guide will share commentary that you'll be able to hear via an audio headset.

Tours generally operate Monday through Saturday at 10 a.m.; tours depart at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday. In addition to its variety of Vatican tours, the company also offers tours of the Colosseum and daylong tours of Rome.

Rome's Ultimate Free Walking Tour

Price: Free Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours

According to reviewers, this free walking tour is a great way to start your visit in Rome. During the nearly three-hour stroll, you'll visit several photo-worthy piazzas, the Pantheon, Ponte Sant'Angelo and Castel Sant'Angelo, among other sights. Guides, who have backgrounds in subjects like history and architecture, earn praise from reviewers for their entertaining storytelling and thoughtful restaurant and activity recommendations.

Tours, which are limited to 15 participants, operate twice daily at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. In total, you'll walk less than 2 miles. According to the company, the tour is suitable for travel strollers and wheelchairs. Though the tour is free, it's recommended that you reserve your spot in advance via the company's website (guides do not wait at the departure point unless reservations are booked). At the end of the tour, you can tip your guide based on your experience.

Check availability on:

Courtesy of Secret Food Tours Rome

Secret Food Tours – Rome Food Tour

Price: Adults from 79 euros (about $86); kids from 69 euros (about $75) Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours

Dine your way through the historical center of Rome, visiting cafes, markets and shops for a total of up to seven stops. During the tour, you'll walk through neighborhoods like the Campo de' Fiori and the Jewish quarter with an enthusiastic guide who ties together history and insights about traditional dishes. The focus is on Italian-style dining: savoring the perfect cappuccino, sampling fresh pizzas and homemade pastas, pairing wines with a variety of cheeses, gelato and more. Travelers praise the guides' knowledge of Roman cuisine and the amount and quality of the food.

Tours depart daily at 11 and 11:30 a.m. An additional 5 p.m. tour may be available depending on the day. Private tours are also an option.

The Roman Guy – Privileged Entrance Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

Price: Adults from $119; kids from $56 Duration: 3 hours

Hoping to see the Vatican sans enormous crowds? This three-hour tour from The Roman Guy convenes at 7:45 a.m., allowing you to enter the Vatican Museums an hour before they open to the general public. First, relish the tranquil Sistine Chapel, which welcomes upward of 25,000 visitors daily during the summer. Afterward, follow your guide to museum highlights, including Raphael's paintings, the Borgia Apartments and the Gallery of the Maps. Travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides and say the opportunity to see the Sistine Chapel without the crowds is worth the tour price (though reviewers warn that you will still encounter quite a few other tour groups enjoying early access to the site).

Tours are available Monday through Saturday. Groups are capped at 14 people. If you're short on time, consider The Roman Guy's abridged Vatican Highlights tour, which last 2.5 hours.

City Wonders – Tuscan Countryside Day Trip from Rome with 3-Course Lunch & Wine Tasting

Price: Adults from $112; kids from $102 Duration: 12 hours

If you want to visit Tuscany while in Rome, but don't want to drive the approximately 175-mile journey yourself, consider this 12-hour excursion from City Wonders. You'll depart from Rome at 7:30 a.m. via an air-conditioned coach bus to see famous hilltop towns, such as Montepulciano and Pienza. You'll also visit the Renaissance church of St. Biagio before enjoying a three-course lunch and wine pairing in the famed Montalcino. Travelers say guides are informative and thoughtful, giving tourists ample time to explore the towns and take pictures. All agree that leaving the driving to a professional made the trip worthwhile.

Tours are offered daily. City Wonders also offers a variety of tours in Rome, including tours of the Colosseum, the Vatican and the Borghese Gallery.

Through Eternity Tours – Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum & Sistine Chapel: Essential Experience

Price: From 1,345 euros (about $1,458) Duration: 6 hours

Conquer Rome in six hours with Through Eternity Tours. With your skip-the-line tickets , you'll visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. Professional, engaging guides – all fluent English speakers – allow you to set the pace, absorbing as much history and archeology as you want at each stop. Travelers say you'll see much more on this half-day tour than you would if you were to visit each site on your own, as guides point out unexpected gems along the way.

Rates can vary considerably depending on the number in your party, and the company offers discounts for students and children. Bring stamina, a water bottle and wear comfortable walking shoes . When you're ready for more, try one of Through Eternity's other tours, such as its evening tour of Rome's piazzas and fountains.

Walks of Italy – Gladiator's Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor

Price: Adults from $105; kids from $99 Duration: 3 hours

On this three-hour tour, you'll enter the Colosseum through the "Gladiator's Gate" – the entrance that was once used exclusively for gladiators 2,000 years ago. Once inside, you'll enjoy 360-degree views of the Colosseum on the reconstructed arena floor as your guide shares the gory history of this famous landmark . Then, you'll bypass the lines to tour the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Highlights include the cremation point of Julius Caesar, senate buildings and the Temple of the Vestal Virgins. Guides win kudos from travelers for their ability to discuss dense history topics in an engaging manner. Reviewers say the tour flies by thanks to the guides' entertaining storytelling. They also appreciate the skip-the-line access to these must-see sights.

Tours, which are capped at 25 participants, are offered three times daily at 9:15 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Rates may vary based on the time of year, and they include all entrance tickets and the use of audio headsets during the tour. Walks of Italy also hosts cooking classes in Rome and organizes day trips to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast.

Maya Tours – Skip-the-Line Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Group Tour

Price: Adults from 45 euros (about $49); kids from 35 euros (about $38) Duration: 2 hours

If you're interested in visiting the Vatican Museums, but don't want to devote more than a couple hours of your Rome vacation to the experience, consider this kid-friendly tour. In addition to skip-the-line access, your guide will show you the must-see artworks, several courtyards and galleries, and the Sistine Chapel. Reviewers praise guides for their interesting and informed commentary (which tourgoers can hear via audio headsets). Parents are particularly impressed with guides' ability to engage children.

Tours are offered Monday through Saturday multiple times in the morning and afternoon. Maya Tours also operates longer, semiprivate tours of the Vatican.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in Rome
• The Best Places to Visit in Italy
• The Best Italy Tours + Small-Group Trips
• The Best International Travel Insurance

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• The First MICHELIN Key Hotels: All the Keys in Italy

The MICHELIN Guide announces top honors for Italian hotels in 2024.

MICHELIN Keys Florence Italy Hotels Rome

On May 7, 2024, the MICHELIN Guide revealed the brand new One, Two, and Three Key distinctions for the most outstanding hotels in Italy. This announcement comes four years into a comprehensive refresh of our hotel selection. The MICHELIN Guide now includes over 5,000 hotels across the world, and not a single one is simply a room for the night. These are places that significantly add to your experience as a traveler, each vetted and judged excellent in five categories: architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price, and a significant contribution to the guest experience in a particular setting. Which brings us back to the Keys. The culmination of countless hours of evaluation by our team of experts, the Key hotels below represent the highlights of our broader selection. Like the MICHELIN Stars for restaurants, the MICHELIN Keys are our most outstanding hotels. In total, the 2024 MICHELIN Guide hotel selection in Italy includes 8 Three Key hotels, 31 Two Key hotels, and 107 One Key hotels. Want to know more about the MICHELIN Key? Here’s everything you need to know . Or, head below to see all the Keys.

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Jump straight to the list or take a deeper dive into select key hotels..

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Highlights of the Italy 2024 Key Hotel List

Under 10 Rooms: The Tiny Keys Reign Across Italy

Expect: Bold, proprietor-driven design themes, special experiences, and hyper-personal service. The tiny hotels that pepper the cities and countryside might get lost on lists full of castles and palazzos, but these little boutiques with ten rooms or less are some the most creative and satisfying accommodations in all of Italy. It’s a given that you’ll find places like these in the Tuscan countryside ( Siena House and Follonico Suite B&B — both with just six bedrooms), but don’t miss the gems in the cities. Vico Milano is a seven room space filled with dazzling design furniture and contemporary art. Velona’s Jungle Luxury Suites is a pocket-sized jungle-themed luxury boutique full of animal-print upholstery and peacock-feather prints. Both are independently owned and marvelously compact.

A Closer Look: 10 Key Hotels with 10 Rooms or Less in Italy

Pick One: A Castle or a Farmhouse Hotel in Tuscany

Two iconic options in Tuscany earned a bevy of Keys: the castle hotel and the classic farmhouse. The former speaks for itself — ancient fortifications that were once private residences, built to house the handsomely titled, and fortified against attack. Towers, turrets, and crenellations give way to handsome wine cellars and vineyard views. Look to Castello di Casole for a masterclass in how to convert a thousand-year-old estate into a historically preserved, contemporarily luxurious hotel. Meanwhile, the motif of the Tuscan farmhouse has been emulated throughout the world — but there’s nothing like the real thing. Hotels like Lupaia and Conti di San Bonifacio make farmhouse charm into nothing less than a work of art.

Make Your Choice: The Key Decision in Italy

High Drama: Hotels on the Seaside of the Amalfi Coast

It’s profoundly satisfying to us that one of the most impressive places in the world has among the world’s most impressive hotels. On the Amalfi Coast, where natural cliffsides tumble down into an endless Italian sea, hotels like Palazzo Pascal and Le Sirenuse host guests in miraculous buildings that served for centuries as aristocratic homes over the water. Casa Angelina and Borgo Santandrea sport more modern builds. In either case, the views are perennially spectacular. Also read: High Drama in the Seaside Hotels of the Amalfi Coast

Click below to jump to each distinction: 

The three key hotels.

Capri: JK Place Capri Civita di Bagnoregio: Corte della Maestà Lisciano Niccone: Castello di Reschio Modena: Casa Maria Luigia Montalcino: Rosewood Castiglion Del Bosco Positano: Il San Pietro di Positano Venice: Aman Venice Venice: Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel, Venice

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The two key hotels.

Amalfi: Borgo Santandrea Amalfi: Hotel Santa Caterina Capri: Capri Palace Jumeirah Castelnuovo Berardenga: Hotel Borgo San Felice Cogne: Bellevue Hotel & Spa Florence: Four Seasons Hotel Firenze Florence: Palazzo Portinari Salviati Residenza D'Epoca Florence: Villa Cora Florence: Villa La Massa Limone sul Garda: EALA My Lakeside Dream Lipari ME: Therasia Resort Menaggio: Grand Hotel Victoria Merano: Castel Fragsburg Merano: Villa Eden The Leading Park Retreat Milan: Bulgari Hotel Milano Milan: Grand Hotel et de Milan Milan: Portrait Milano Montaione FI: Castelfalfi Piegaro: I Borghi dell'Eremo Pinzolo: Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti Plose: Forestis Dolomites Rome: Hotel Vilòn Rome: JK Place Roma Siena: Castello di Casole, A Belmond Hotel, Tuscany Sorrento: Bellevue Syrene 1820 Sorrento: La Minervetta Taormina: Grand Hotel Timeo, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina Taormina: San Domenico Palace, Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel Torno: Il Sereno Tremezzo: Grand Hotel Tremezzo Venice: Hotel Gritti Palace

The One Key Hotels

Arco: Vivere Suites and Rooms Arenella: Donna Coraly Country Boutique Hotel Arezzo: Villa Fontelunga Arzachena: Cascioni Eco Retreat Bernalda: Palazzo Margherita Cagliari: Casa Clàt Caldaro: Lake Spa Hotel SEELEITEN Camaiore: Locanda al Colle Capalbio: Locanda Rossa Capri: Capri Tiberio Palace Castelrotto: COMO Alpina Dolomites Castiglione della Pescaia: L’Andana Cernobbio: Villa d'Este Chiusdino: Borgo Santo Pietro Cinigiano: Castello di Vicarello Como CO: Palazzo Albricci Peregrini - Como Cremolino: Nordelaia Cutrofiano: Critabianca Fiesole: Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, Florence Florence: Ad Astra Florence: Brunelleschi Hotel Florence: Hotel Calimala Florence: Hotel Lungarno Florence: Riva Lofts Florence Florence: Torre di Bellosguardo Florence: Velona's Jungle Luxury Suites Forio di Ischia: Mezzatorre Hotel & Thermal Spa Forio NA: Botania Relais & Spa Forte dei Marmi: Principe Forte dei Marmi Gargnano: Lefay Resort & Spa Lago di Garda Gavorrano GR: Conti di San Bonifacio Lake Orta Novara: Villa Crespi Lana: Vigilius Mountain Resort Lecce: La Fiermontina Palazzo Bozzi Corso Lecce: Palazzo de Noha Locorotondo: Ottolire Resort Madonna di Campiglio: Biohotel Hermitage Maranza: Milla Montis Massa Lubrense: Art Hotel Villa Fiorella Massa Lubrense: Relais Blu Matera: Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita Menfi: La Foresteria Planeta Estate Milan: Hotel Principe di Savoia, Dorchester Collection Milan: Mandarin Oriental Milan Milan: Vico Milano Moltrasio: Passalacqua Montalcino: Castello Banfi - Il Borgo Relais & Chateaux Montalcino: Villa le Prata - Residenza del Vescovo Montepulciano: Precise Tale Poggio Alla Sala Noto: Country House Villadorata Noto: Seven Rooms Villadorata Ortisei: Gardena Grödnerhof Hotel & Spa Ostuni: Paragon 700 Boutique Hotel & SPA Otranto: Baglioni Masseria Muzza Perugia: Hotel Castello di Monterone Pettenasco: Laqua by the Lake Pognana Làrio: Villa Làrio Lake Como Polizzi Generosa: Susafa Porto Ercole: Il Pellicano Positano: Le Sirenuse Praiano: Casa Angelina Ravello: Caruso, A Belmond Hotel, Amalfi Coast Riva del Garda: Lido Palace Rome: Hassler Roma Roma: Hotel Eden, Dorchester Collection Rome: Bulgari Hotel Roma Rome: Hotel Locarno Rome: Maalot Roma Rome: Portrait Roma Rome: Rocco Forte Hotel De La Ville Rome: Rocco Forte Hotel de Russie Rome: Singer Palace Hotel Rome: Six Senses Rome Rome: The Hoxton, Rome Rome: The Inn at the Roman Forum Rome: The St. Regis Rome Rome: Umiltà 36 San Cassiano: Lagació Hotel Mountain Residence San Pietro In Cariano: Byblos Art Hotel Villa Amista Sant'Agnello: Mediterraneo Sorrento Santa Margherita Ligure: Grand Hotel Miramare Santo Stefano di Sessanio: Sextantio Sarentino: Terra - The Magic Place Savelletri di Fasano: Borgo Egnazia Savelletri di Fasano: Masseria Calderisi Savelletri di Fasano: Masseria Torre Coccaro Savelletri di Fasano: Masseria Torre Maizza Scala: Palazzo Pascal Schnals: Goldene Rose Karthaus Sirmione BS: Villa Cortine Sorrento: Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria Tavarnelle Val di Pesa: COMO Castello del Nero Torre Canne di Fasano: Canne Bianche Lifestyle Hotel Torri del Benaco: Cape of Senses Torrita di Siena: Follonico Suite B&B Torrita di Siena: Lupaia Torrita di Siena: Siena House Umbertide: Vocabolo Moscatelli Boutique Hotel & Restaurant Venice: Ca’ di Dio Venice: Corte di Gabriela Venice: Hotel Londra Palace Venice: Il Palazzo Experimental Venice: Nolinski Venezia Venice: Palazzo Maria Formosa Venice: Palazzo Venart Luxury Hotel Vicenza: La Barchessa di Villa Pisani Zafferana Etnea: Monaci delle Terre Nere

Hero Image: Castello di Reschio — Lisciano Niccone

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A Real Pain

Mismatched cousins David and Benji reunite for a tour through Poland to honor their beloved grandmother. The adventure takes a turn when the odd-couple's old tensions resurface against the b... Read all Mismatched cousins David and Benji reunite for a tour through Poland to honor their beloved grandmother. The adventure takes a turn when the odd-couple's old tensions resurface against the backdrop of their family history. Mismatched cousins David and Benji reunite for a tour through Poland to honor their beloved grandmother. The adventure takes a turn when the odd-couple's old tensions resurface against the backdrop of their family history.

• Jesse Eisenberg
• Kieran Culkin
• Olha Bosova
• 1 User review
• 26 Critic reviews
• 84 Metascore
• 1 win & 1 nomination

• Benji Kaplan

• David Kaplan
• Flight Attendant

• Receptionist
• (as Jakub Gąsowski)

• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

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Did you know

• Trivia Jesse Eisenberg 's sophomore directorial effort after When You Finish Saving the World (2022) , both of which were produced by Emma Stone 's production company Fruit Tree and had their world premieres at the Sundance Film Festival.

Benji Kaplan : This, people, is what fucking film making is about.

• Connections Referenced in Amanda the Jedi Show: The BEST and Weirdest Movies you (mostly) Haven't Seen Yet | Love Lies Bleeding (2024)

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• chenp-54708
• Jan 28, 2024
• How long is A Real Pain? Powered by Alexa
• October 18, 2024 (United States)
• United States
• Official Instagram
• Prawdziwy ból
• Majdanek, Lublin, Lubelskie, Poland (concentration camp)
• Topic Studios
• Extreme Emotions
• See more company credits at IMDbPro

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• Runtime 1 hour 30 minutes

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Private Italy Tours

Find the right private tour for you in Italy. There are 375 trips to choose from, that range from one day in length, up to 15 days. The month with the most departures is June, making it the most popular time to visit Italy.

250+ Private tours of Italy with 678 positive reviews

• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year

Deluxe Italian Escape with picturesque Cinque Terre

Great agency. They are with you from start to finish. They were really helpful throughout the trip and worked their best to answer questions or fix any issues that came during the trip. They chose really good hotels, that are convenient and comfortable. I highly recommend them, as I may be booking with them in the near future. The few negative experiences had nothing to do with them. Wanderful did an amazing job.

• In-depth Cultural

Private Tour of Sicily: Highlights

2020 was a difficult year to travel, but if you can make it, it is all worth it! Given the various restrictions imposed on tourism during this period, Activity Sicily still delivered a rich and smooth programme: food was great, tours are interesting, hotels are comfortable and in great locations, and the cooking class is particularly fun. We focused on the food and wine aspects in this tour, the knowledge behind the food provided great insight into Sicilian people, history and culture. Massimo was hands-on all way through the tour to make sure everything went well, and all the guides are professional, knowledgable, and helped us to make the most of the trip during this difficult time. That said, the bonus is -- with hardly any tourists around, we really got to see the place as it is! Thanks Activity Sicily.

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

• Food & Culinary

Taste of Salento-Authentic Culinary Experience

Amazing food made by Emilio every breakfast and dinner! Only one restaurant that we went to (recommended by Emilio) could compare in quality to Emilio's cooking. Emilio didn't keep any cooking secrets from us, so we look forward to trying to make some of his recipes ourselves!

Private Sicily Food & Wine Lovers Tour

Massimo of Sicily Activities was wonderful to work with. He always answered right away, and took care of EVERYTHING throughout the trip--even things that weren't strictly part of the tour. We were a private group of 15. PALERMO: The hotel was wonderful and Fabrizio was a great guide for the food tour. Luca was a great driver to Monreale and Cefalu'. Larisa was a good guide for the Monreale cathedral and Lisabeta in Cefalu' was fantastic--and the restaurant was, too. Claudio, our driver to Agrigento and Siracusa was excellent. The guide at Valley of the Temples was good. An amazing place. SIRACUSA: The hotel was lovely and in a great location. Both guides in Ortigia were great--Valerio for the walking tour and Paolo for the foodie dinner--what a fun man. Paolo, the driver to Noto, Villa Romana del Casale and Taormina was fantastic. Saro was an excellent guide in Noto and Mt Etna. Lunches in both Noto and Piazza Amerina were delicious. Patrizia, the guide for Villa Romana, was wonderful, especially when we needed an ambulance for one of the women to go to the hospital. And dear Massimo even arranged a taxi for me from the hospital back to Siracusa (about an hour and half away). The driver was the nicest man! TAORMINA: Another very nice hotel. Our guide for the walking tour was really good. She was patient as we were a little late getting ready to start the tour, but she still took us to the Greek Theatre in the rain and wind. The tour to Mt Etna was fabulous--both the tasting and the lunch. Massimo even arranged a pizza-making class when weather prevented us from going on our scheduled boat ride. In summary, there was nothing Massimo could have done better. And this is at a time when all the tour directors were overwhelmed with bookings. He was a standout!

Discover Matera and Taste of Salento Tour

We have recently returned from Discover Matera and Taste of Salento tour arranged by Soleto Travel. Omar of Soleto Travel has been most helpful and responsive to our pre tour and on tour queries. In one instance he arranged invaluable medical assistance following an accident to my partner. The tour was excellent and met expectations. Just be prepared to climb a lot of steps in Matera. In particular our hosts at Tenuta Linazza (masseria) were most welcolming and the food was genuine Italian with a wide variety of dishes available - ranging from delicious desserts to great pasta and seafoood dishes accompanied by hgh quality Puglia wines. Emiliio is a chef extraordinaire as well as being a most professional and insightful guide into Puglia customs and culture. His family members Clara, Michel and Antonio also acted as tour guides and shared these same attributes. The tour flexibility offered is a plus in satisfying the consensus wishes of touring participants. Accomodation at the farm cannot be faulted - spacious and clean with good facilities. There is the added bonus of Pongo the family dog who occasionally walks with you to the local coffee outlet.

Lakes & Lagoon: Como, Lake Garda & Venice, 6 days private tour

This was our first time to Italy and we enjoyed this tour very much. Laura our guide was fantastic. He made the trip both enjoyable. Our driver Filippo was charming and expert at getting us safely through the traffic and narrow roads. Thanks

Italian Tour Gondola Ride & Cinque Terre Visit

My 10-year-old son and I just came back from Rome-Florence-Venice and we thoroughly enjoyed it. It was our first time in Italy and first time using a tour. There were a couple of minor hiccups but our tour operators, Hannah, Barbara, Rose, Wendy, Alberto, Sam were extremely helpful and pleasant to work with. They were super responsive via WhatsApp. I thought our itinerary was very reasonable. We mostly travel independently but the travel logistics were all arranged for us. Thanks again for the top-notch customer service.

Looking for tours beyond just Italy?

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• Train & Rail

Italy By High-Speed Train

The tour was good, hotels were very nice and in safe areas. The tours were awesome.

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

Sorrento, Pompei, Amalfi and Positano: 4 days escape from Rome

Great way to see alot over a short period of time. Would have liked to see better communication between tour operator and us. At time's we felt unsure about where to be. If it's your first time to any of these area's I would recommend taking a city tour while you are there. We did this in Sorrento and really got alot more understanding of the area. Overall it was a good tour just remember that this is not a hand held tour, you are on your own for parts of it.

Sardinia: Magic Tour

Best service.Thanks to them for those good tour guidelines.

Unkown Italy: Calabria, Basilicata and Apulia

They are masterpieces in the world of travel. With meticulous planning, seamless execution, and artful curation, they turned my journey into an unforgettable canvas of experiences. Exceptional service, every step of the way.

Eco-Comfort - Tour Of Italy By Train

When we landed in Venice, we had to find our own transportation to the hotel in Venice. We chose the Agunalinia public airport waterbus service. Our hotel was the last stop. The waterbus is only permitted to travel at 11 knots per hour. The speed is policed as waves are know to cause structural damage. We did see private boats and water taxi services speeding merily along. Our transfer took 55 minutes, which could have been accomplished in 15. The end of our tour out of Sorrento, we had excellent service with a train station pick up, and hotel to airport drop off. We were perplexed as to why such a transfer service could not have been included and arranged for the Venice section of the tour. We were quoted 60 Euros for a private Venice airport to hotel transfer. Having never visited Venice before, we opted for the local public airport bus, at our loss. Belle Arti Venice hotel did not have any irons and did not permit the use of one. The pillows were like brocks. The young breakfast staff were courteous and polite, yet the female front desk person, and older breakfast lady were curt and dismissive. The Executive Hotel in Florence was splendid in its unabashed luxury. We were placed in a lovely room which had a balustrade of curtains across the top of the window and a draped wall to ceiling gathered sheet hanging from a gold bar at the back top of the bed. Adrian, the front desk clerk spoke exceptional English and was well versed in Montelcino and Montelpuliciano wines. His colleague, the bar hostess, was also very accommodating with evening tapas sellections and Prosecco tastings. One note to make about the added-on tour to Montelcino and Montelpuliciano, would be to not have the Montelcino wine tastings take place at 11:00 a.m., then the long stair climbing experience in Montelpuliciano. Have these two town experiences reversed, saving the Montelcino tastings for the end of the tour, leaving energy to climb for the morning part of the tour. There were no tastings in Montelpuliciano, other than privately sourced. Service and the room at the Hotel Astoria in Sorrento were fabulous. Franco picked us up at the train station, and allowed for a quick photo taking option on the way into Sorrento. Alfonzo, both bell hops were congenial, friendly and very helpful. Roberta, the front desk clerk was always ready to assist in locating information from her computer. Raquela was a treat to speak with, who told me about the hotel's arrangement with a private beach club, allowing hotel guests a discounted rate, and the loan of a beach towel. Luigi was our boat captain for the add-on Capris tour. Unfortunately, while this tour does state snorkeling would be included, there were only a small supply of snorkel masks on board, and no snorkels or flippers. Luigi was a very skilled driver taking us well into the grottos. The tour did not have any limoncello tasting as stated in the description, nor was there a stop at or a viewing of the Amalfi coast. Four hours on Capris was lengthy given that we were expecting free time on the Amalfi beach.

• Hiking & Trekking
• Self Guided Walking Holidays

Paths of the Amalfi Coast

The Hotel Due Torri is a wonderful family owned hotel. They welcomed us like family, Helped us with our daily itinerary and answered all our questions. The meals were Devine prepared by Giovani who is co owner of the hotel and an amazing Chef. Nicola, Giovani’s brother and co owner made us homemade Pizza and made sure all the guests were happy. Gerardo took care of our every need. The views of the coast from the walk were one of a kind. I highly recommend this tour if you want to take in all the sites of the Amalfi Coast and feel immersed in Italian culture.

Iconic Italian Cities

• Mountain Hikes

From Lake Garda to Venice

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Private Italy Tour Reviews

TourRadar was excellent. The tours they scheduled were well-run by knowledgeable and amiable guides. Of course, the Italy locations were superb. The office staff kept in constant contact, but unobtrusive. And when I changed plans on the fly, the staff was responsive and thorough. I definitely cannot wait to book my next adventure with TourRadar!

Loved Sicily and we were well looked after by Sicily Activities. I would recommend them without hesitation. Paul Roberts - New Zealand.

Continued.. Besides both Carla and Emilios own knowlege and history of each place they had Profesional guides to take you around to the other places. Nice to be in a private car. Great food like I said before. Emilio really takes care and you can see the passion in every dish he makes. Very well put together tour. Loved my stay at the farmhouse learning about the olive trees. Overall a Wonderful experience during my week in brindisi. Will visit again! Crystal

Regions in Italy

• Northern Italy (131)
• South Italy (109)
• Central Italy (87)
• Italian Alps (54)
• Tuscany (53)
• Trentino Alto-Adige (40)
• Prosecco (39)
• Sicily (36)
• Amalfi Coast (32)
• Campania (30)
• South Tyrol (29)
• Italian Lakes District (26)
• Puglia (25)
• Apulia (24)
• Veneto (18)
• Lombardy (16)

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Money latest: Chocolate is a superfood - if you buy these bars

Read all today's personal finance and consumer news below - and leave a comment on any of the stories we're covering.

Friday 10 May 2024 22:26, UK

• UK exits recession, official figures show
• Ed Conway:  Three reasons to be gleeful about the ONS figures
• Interest rate held at 5.25% | Bank of England: June rate cut 'not ruled out but not fait accompli'

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• Best of the Money blog - an archive

Ask a question or make a comment

If you've missed any of the features we've been running in Money this year, or want to check back on something you've previously seen in the blog, this archive of our most popular articles may help...

Loaves of bread have been recalled from shelves in Japan after they were found to contain the remains of a rat.

Production of the bread in Tokyo has been halted after parts of a "small animal" were found by at least two people.

Pasco Shikishima Corp, which produces the bread, said 104,000 packages have been recalled as it apologised and promised compensation.

A company representative told Sky News's US partner network, NBC News, that a "small black rat" was found in the bread. No customers were reported to have fallen ill as a result of ingesting the contaminated bread.

"We deeply apologise for the serious inconvenience and trouble this has caused to our customers, suppliers, and other concerned parties," the spokesman said.

Pasco added in a separate statement that "we will do our utmost to strengthen our quality controls so that this will never happen again. We ask for your understanding and your co-operation."

Japanese media reports said at least two people who bought the bread in the Gunma prefecture, north-west of Tokyo, complained to the company about finding a rodent in the bread.

Record levels of shoplifting appear to be declining as fewer shopkeepers reported thefts last year, new figures show. 

A survey by the Office for National Statistics shows 26% of retailers experienced customer theft in 2023, down from a record high of 28% in 2022.

This comes despite a number of reports suggesting shoplifting is becoming more frequent. 

A  separate ONS finding , which used police crime data, showed reports of shoplifting were at their highest level in 20 years in 2023, with law enforcements logging 430,000 instances of the crime.

Let's get you up to speed on the biggest business news of the past 24 hours. 

A privately owned used-car platform is circling Cazoo Group, its stricken US-listed rival, which is on the brink of administration.

Sky News has learnt that Motors.co.uk is a leading contender to acquire Cazoo's marketplace operation, which would include its brand and intellectual property assets.

The process to auction the used-car platform's constituent parts comes after it spent tens of millions of pounds on sponsorship deals in football, snooker and darts in a rapid attempt to gain market share.

The owner of British Airways has reported a sharp rise in profits amid soaring demand for trips and a fall in the cost of fuel.

International Airlines Group said its operating profit for the first three months of the year was €68m (£58.5m) - above expectations and up from €9m (£7.7m) during the same period in 2023.

The company, which also owns Aer Lingus, Iberia and Vueling, said earnings had soared thanks to strong demand, particularly over the Easter holidays.

The prospect of a strike across Tata Steel's UK operations has gained further traction after a key union secured support for industrial action.

Community, which has more than 3,000 members, said 85% voted in favour of fighting the India-owned company's plans for up to 2,800 job losses, the majority of them at the country's biggest steelworks in Port Talbot, South Wales.

Tata confirmed last month it was to press ahead with the closure of the blast furnaces at the plant, replacing them with electric arc furnaces to reduce emissions and costs.

In doing so, the company rejected an alternative plan put forward by the Community, GMB and Unite unions that, they said, would raise productivity and protect jobs across the supply chain.

Rishi Sunak has told Sky News that the UK exiting recession shows the economy has "turned a corner". 

He told our economics editor Ed Conway : "I am pleased that while there's more work to do, today's figures show that the economy now has real momentum, and I'm confident that with time, people will start to feel the benefits of that.

"We've had multiple months now where wages are rising, energy bills have fallen, mortgage rates are down and taxes are being cut... I'm pleased with the progress that we're making."

Mr Sunak added: "I am confident the economy is getting healthier every week."

Lidl will increase staff wages for the third time in 12 months, the supermarket has announced. 

Shop workers in London will get £13.65, up from £13.55, while staff elsewhere will get a rise from a minimum £12 to £12.40 - at a cost of £2.5m to Lidl.

The supermarket invested £37m in pay increases in March, on top of £8m in September - a total of more than £50m in the past 12 months. 

The increase comes into effect from 1 June. 

Lidl GB chief executive Ryan McDonnell said: "As we continue to expand, we are welcoming more customers and attracting more colleagues into the business every day.

"It's absolutely right, therefore, that we continue to offer industry-leading pay."

Tech giant Apple has apologised after an advert for its new iPad model prompted outrage.  

The ad promoting the thinnest-ever iPad shows creative tools including cameras, books, paint cans and musical instruments being crushed in an industrial press.

But many, including celebrities like Hugh Grant, decried the crushing of artistic objects.

In a statement released to Ad Age, Tor Myhren, Apple's vice president of marketing communications, said: "Creativity is in our DNA at Apple, and it's incredibly important to us to design products that empower creatives all over the world.

"Our goal is to always celebrate the myriad of ways users express themselves and bring their ideas to life through iPad. We missed the mark with this video, and we're sorry."

By Daniel Binns, business reporter

The FTSE 100 has been propelled to another record high this morning after official figures showed that the UK is now out of recession.

The index, of the London Stock Exchange's 100 most valuable companies, is up more than 0.5% and hit an intraday (during the day) high of 8,433 points earlier.

The score is based on a calculation of the total value of the shares on the index.

It comes after officials revealed that gross domestic product (GDP) in the UK grew by a better-than-expected 0.6% during the first three months of the year. 

However, commentators said investors had been buoyed more by the rising cost of metals, along with suggestions from the Bank of England yesterday that interest rates could be cut soon . 

Russ Mould, from investment platform AJ Bell, said: "Given its international horizons, this has little to do with the UK's better-than-expected GDP growth and is largely being driven by strength in the resources space where higher metals prices and the promise of M&A [mergers and acquisitions] are helping to stoke share prices.

"The next key test of the index's new-found vim and vigour will likely come next week in the form of US inflation figures. Investors have broadly accepted rate cuts won't be as deep or come as soon as would have been anticipated at the start of the year. However, any signs inflation is proving much more stubborn than predicted would still represent a shock to the system for financial markets."

Among the movers on Friday is UK-based mining firm Anglo American. 

Its shares are up almost 2% after reports that industry giant Rio Tinto has been considering a multibillion-pound takeover of the firm. It comes after Anglo American rejected a bid from rival BHP.  

Meanwhile, shares in Vodafone are up more than 2% after the government conditionally approved its plans to merge with fellow mobile operator Three. However, an investigation into the deal by the UK's competition watchdog is still ongoing, meaning it’s not a done deal yet. 

On the flip side, property listings website Rightmove is down nearly 6% this morning. It comes after the company cut its advertising revenue growth estimates in a trading update.

Rightmove said higher mortgage rates and lengthier completion times for sales were likely to weigh on buyer sentiment in the coming months, but it also forecast a better year for the UK residential market as a whole.

On the currency markets, £1 buys $1.25 US or €1.16.

Sainsbury's is running a scheme that allows some shoppers to earn easy Nectar card points. 

To earn extra points, shoppers just need to spend £1 across multiple transactions at Sainsbury's this month. 

The supermarket says the scheme is available to "millions" of customers, though all it would say about the eligibility criteria is that it's "based on a range of factors".

Check if you're eligible

Log into your nectar card app and check to see if you have this message...   

Make sure you opt in once you see the message. 

From there, you simply need to spend £1 or more five times - earning extra points each time. 

The number of bonus points on offer varies for each customer.

The offer runs until 4 June. 

Britain is not just out of recession. 

It is out of recession with a bang.

The economic growth reported this morning by the Office for National Statistics is not just faster than most economists expected, it's also the fastest growth we've seen since the tailend of the pandemic, when the UK was bouncing back from lockdown.

But, more than that, there are three other facts that the prime minister and chancellor will be gleeful about (and you can expect them to be talking about this number for a long time).

First, it's not just that the economy is now growing again after two quarters of contraction - that was the recession. 

An economic growth rate of 0.6% is near enough to what economists used to call "trend growth", back before the crisis - in other words, it's the kind of number that signifies the economy growing at more or less "normal" rates. 

And normality is precisely the thing the government wants us to believe we've returned to.

Second, that 0.6% means the UK is, alongside Canada, the fastest-growing economy in the G7 (we've yet to hear from Japan, but economists expect its economy to contract in the first quarter).

Third, it's not just gross domestic product that's up. So too is gross domestic product per head - the number you get when you divide our national income by every person in the country. After seven years without any growth, GDP per head rose by 0.4% in the first quarter. 

And since GDP per head is a better yardstick for the "feelgood factor", perhaps this means people will finally start to feel better off.

But this is where the problems come in. 

Because while this latest set of GDP figures is undoubtedly positive, the numbers that came before are undoubtedly grim.

GDP per head is still considerably lower, in real terms, than it was in 2022, before Liz Truss's disastrous mini-budget, or for that matter lower than in early 2019.

Raising another question: when people think about the state of the economy ahead of the election (and obviously these new figures are likely to increase the speculation about the date of the election), do they put more weight on the years of economic disappointment or the bounce back after them?

Do they focus on the fact that we're now growing at decent whack or on the fact that their income per head is, in real terms, no higher today than it was five years ago?

These are the questions we will all be mulling in the coming months - as the next election approaches. One thing is for sure: this won't be the last time you hear about these GDP numbers.

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