best 10 day tour of italy

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10 Day Italy Tours & Trips

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 10 day Italy tour with TourRadar. Choose from 565 trips with 5,459 customer reviews, that range from 8 up to 10 days.

250+ Italy 10 day tour packages with 5,459 reviews

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Italian Discovery

We saw a lot of great places. The only reason not a five has to do with the information not received before the trip about optional side events offered by the tour such as the gondola ride. We scheduled several events on our own ahead of time since they were not included in the package. We would rather have gone with the group but didn't know about the possibility ahead of time. We also would have liked to have the same tour guide throughout the entire tour as well as the same group of people. The group kept changing and pick ups were complicated. Transportation back to the hotel was not a part of some of the tour and in our opinion should be included in the basic package. It is difficult to figure out bus/train systems in a foreign country and we should not have added expenses to be taken back to our hotels.

New Tour of Sicily from Palermo 10 Days

Very well coordinated.

Sicilian Secrets - Tour of Sicily 10 days from Palermo 2024

wish the tour guardian’s english I could understand better

• Food & Culinary

Discover Matera and Taste of Salento Tour

Great Tours! A wonderful experience first in Salento at Emilio's Masseria and then in the enchanting Matera. We appreciated Emilio's excellent cuisine and his flexibility in organizing our tour days around the villages of Salento. The hotel booked for us in Matera was excellent, the cave room is an experience to live! Thanks for all the extra arrangements you made for us.

Essential Italy

Northern Italy: Venice to Rome (Small Group)

My husband and I spent an amazing ten days in Italy thanks to Alex from Eskapas. Also our guide Adrian was fun, extremely knowledgeable and passionate about his subject. I would absolutely recommend your tour company again and I have already. Thank you again! We loved every minute of it!

Highlights of Southern Italy and Sicily

We loved all the places we visited but the hotels in a few cities weren't too great.

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

• Train & Rail

Train tours Italy: Venice, Florence, Rome, Sorrento by train

Everything was great. Hotels were very good, meals were good but not outstanding. Luggage pickup & high speed trains were excellent made getting from city to city enjoyable & super easy. Most of the tour guides in the city were very good especially Pompeii & Siena not so much Florence. I can’t say enough about how great our tour leader was. Annabelle was super accommodating, always there for us, whatever we needed, no matter what it was. I had some physical limitations and she was always helpful to my wife and me. I was very sick the last 2 days in Sorrento & Annabelle helped my wife to get to the pharmacy to get some medicine which made it able for me to get better & able to get home. Annabelle made the trip incredible. Suellen & Jack Gauthier

• Coach / Bus

Absolute Sicily: Palermo - Palermo (10 days/9 nights)

Very nice tour overall. The tour leaders did not speak English very well or spoke too fast on the PA system of the bus. Destination Italia did not organize our tour very well. We were switched from one bus to another twice with very poor instructions. The local tour guys at each venue were very good, though. The destinations that we went to each day were excellent and so were the meals. For the most part, the hotels were good too. All things considered it was a good value for the money and we enjoyed the trip.

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

Sensational Sicily

Tour was excellent, hotels very good but communication could improve. Some of my group were on a WhatsApp connection and were receiving communication but not me. Also I had to ask about where to meet etc on first night. I also wasn’t told that my last day would be a private tour and to meet the guide at 9.00 am. Luckily she persevered in searching for me and I ended up having a fantastic day.

Italian Treasures

The trip was a great time and enjoyed by all four of us. The accommodations were not needed in Venice, but our stays in Roma and Amalfi were lovely. Shout out to the Guardian Hotel and San't Angelo Resort and Spa. The staff at both were very helpful while we stayed with them. The train connections were no trouble at all. Overall, the only thing that would be nice is being given options for hotels to choose from along with the addresses so that we can plan what items of interest might be nearby to continue our adventures. Questions were answered in a timely manner for most things. The staff was helpful although it seemed with one or two of them, there may have been a communication barrier or lack of understanding. Overall: Great tour to go on and would recommend.

Premium Sicily

Best of Italy - 10 Days

Had a great time in italy! I customized my plans and this wonderful tour company had been amazing at making my trip happen. Everything ran smoothly and I'm so glad I chosed Turban adventures. I can't recommend them enough!

Unkown Italy: Calabria, Basilicata and Apulia

Wonderful tour, great tour guides, terrific weather, comfortable hotels, fine food, excellent tour service.

Southern Italy and Sicily (10 Days)

By far one of the best bus tours out there!

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

What people love about 10 Day Italy Tours

This was one of the best trip I ever had! Beautiful scenery, great food, but most importantly friendly people. Mario, our guide for the ten days, made the holiday extra special as she was a superb leader who always was kind to everyone. Breakfasts were good. The red wine was much appreciated.Well, I highly recommend.

Excellent tour, very well organised. Nice and clean accomodations . Very comprehensive tour, all the main sites are covered, but some days are really a bit tiring .Soleto's assistance provided before and during the tour was superb. Good value for money.

Good guides and good hotel and meals. Didn't expect my initial group of 30 to swell to 45 a few days later. Such a large number made visiting sites difficult. Didn't have listening devices for the first 3 days. Couldn't hear guides very well. Didn't expect to have to pay entrance fees. Web site should make that clear. Loved the selection of sited we visited.

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

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How to spend 10 days in italy: 5 italy itinerary ideas for 2024.

If you’re wondering how to spend 10 days in Italy, I’ve got you covered with these 5 itineraries! Discover the beauty, history, culture, and wonder with the perfect Italy itinerary.

How to Spend 10 Days in Italy: 5 Amazing Itinerary Ideas for your Trip to Italy

Italy is an incredible country that should be on any traveler’s bucket list! Italy has given us so much: the Renaissance, famous artwork, timeless classical music, stunning architecture, pasta, pizza, gelato …need I say more? Not only is Italy the birthplace of so many things, but it is also home to breathtaking natural beauty , from the lakes and mountains in the north to the gorgeous stretches of coastline on either side of the country.

• Here are my top 10 day Italy itineraries:
• Gotta See it All: Rome, Amalfi, Florence, Pisa, Cinque Terre, Milan, Lake Como, & Venice
• Classic Italy: Rome, Florence, & Venice
• Northern Lakes of Italy: Milan, Lake Garda, Lake Iseo, Lake Como , & Lake Maggiore
• Italian Island Hopping: Sardinia & Sicily
• Exploring Tuscany: Florence, Siena, Chianti, & San Gimignano

Here's a Short Cut

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Italy Itinerary complete with interactive maps and daily schedule? Click the yellow button below.

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We love Italy and have spent time living there and also being tourists there many times! It’s one of our favorite places to visit over and over again.

Any trip to Italy will be amazing, but I wanted to give you a few Italy itinerary options to choose from. They are all great options, but everyone has different tastes, and one might be a better fit for your needs and group.

If you want to learn more about Italy before planning your trip, be sure to read my complete Italy Travel Guide. 

Join my Italy Travel Group on Facebook for more helpful tips!

How long should you plan for your trip around Italy? How about indefinitely? Two weeks in Italy is really nice, but if that’s not an option for you, I think that 10 days in Italy is a good amount of time for your first visit. It will allow you to see around three sites without getting too worn out, and it’s the average paid vacation time for most Americans.

A full 10 days in Italy gives you enough time to visit several cities in the country and have some in-depth experiences without feeling too rushed. But if you only have one week in Italy, you can still have a great time. Just cut one location out of any of these itineraries and you’ll be fine! There are so many things to do in Italy and you’ll never be able to see them all, but you can see the best!

If you’re stressing about how to plan a trip to Italy, take a deep breath. Anywhere you choose will be great! Once you’ve decided to spend 10 days in Italy, it’s time to get planning your trip! This is the fun part, but it can also be pretty stressful. Be sure to read all the information here , and once you pick which itinerary works best for you, do all the research you can!

The best time to travel to Italy can be a tricky question! The best time to go to Italy will be different depending on what you want to do or see. If you want to see snowy mountains in the Dolomites or go skiing, obviously you’ll want to go in the winter. If you want to spend most of your time on the beach, you’ll want to go in the summer. Summer in Italy can be hot, humid, and really crowded. So if you want to see the big cities, it’s best to go during shoulder season (April-May or September-October).

The best time of year to visit Italy is probably May or September in my opinion.  Keep your preferences in mind when choosing when to go to Italy. I give my recommendation for each itinerary below.

Getting around Italy can be fun and easy! In my opinion, traveling by train is the best way to travel around Italy and see the country. It allows you to sit back and relax between destinations, and with the cost of fuel and tolls in Italy, it’s actually the most affordable way to travel Italy. Traveling around Italy by train can sound a little scary if you don’t know what you’re doing. Be sure to read my guide so that you feel confident before booking tickets and traveling by train.

Read My Guide to Train Travel in Italy Here

Many will recommend purchasing a Rail Pass for your trip to Italy. A Rail Pass allows you to ride many trains in Italy without a reservation. This means you can hop onto almost any train in Italy. You can read more about it in my Italy Train Guide . Depending on the length of your trip, how often you’ll be riding trains, which trains you’ll be taking, and how many countries you’re planning to visit in Europe , it can be a great deal…

But it can also be a waste of money . For these itineraries, I don’t recommend buying one. I’ve done the math on each of these itineraries and I don’t think it’s worth it. If you are straying from any of these Italy itineraries, you really need to do the math and decide if it’s right for you. This Italy Train Guide lays all of the information out for you.

There are some areas in Italy that I think it’s definitely worth renting a car! In the northern lakes, dolomites, Sardinia, and Tuscany are all great places to drive in Italy. That can be a little terrifying in some areas. Be sure to read this guide to driving in Italy.  I always tell people that once you drive in Italy you can drive anywhere!

If you’re renting a car, there are two companies we prefer to use: Rental Cars and Expedia Cars. We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available.

How much does a trip to Italy cost you ask? Your trip to Italy cost will be very different than the next person. You’ll need to budget for your 10 days in Italy. Your budget will depend a lot on where you choose to go. Large cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence will be more expensive than staying in the countryside.

Italy uses the Euro like a lot of Europe. The exchange rate is usually around .90 Euros to 1 USD. Food costs around the same as in the US, fuel is a lot more expensive, and accommodation will vary widely.

I would plan on spending around €100-300/night for accommodations depending on your group size and level of luxury. If you’re a small group, VRBOs and house rentals can be very cheap! If you’re traveling Italy on a budget, I highly recommend using VRBOs over hotels.

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, you’ll want to follow my basic advice, especially if its your first trip to Italy!

• Learn a few basic words in Italian (grazie, ciao, preggo)
• Be sure to validate your train tickets (avoid getting a €300 fine and read this! )
• Try the local food and venture away from the main tourist sites to get it
• Be sure to pack an Italy-specific power adapter (they have 2 types of plugs). I use THIS ONE for Italy specific plugs.   And THIS ONE for European plugs also found in Italy. 
• Beware of pickpockets ( you can learn about what happened to me here )
• Beware of a Coperto charge. This is a charge to sit and eat.
• Read my Tips for Visiting Europe

Where to go in Italy you ask? When planning your trip to Italy, think about what is most important to you. The country is so large, it can be overwhelming. After visiting Italy 5 separate times, I have found it best to focus on one region of the country at a time if possible. I know that it’s so hard to visit Italy and not want to see it all, but you won’t want to spend your entire trip on a train, or in a car, or on a plane.

See this list of the best places to see in Italy

While it’s tough to say just which are the best places to visit in Italy, because, let’s be honest, all of Italy is so dang amazing, I do have some personal favorite Italy vacations. When I help friends plan their trip to Italy, I like to give them a little taste of everything: city, history, nature, beach, culture, and food!

I love getting off the beaten path, but there are just some places that are a must see in Italy! There are literally hundreds of choices you can make for your first Italy itinerary, and they would all be amazing. Every person or group has different preferences and interests. That’s why I have created five different 10 day Italy itinerary ideas for you.

You’ll have tons of amazing things to do in Italy, and what you choose to do will largely depend on where you go and what time of year you go, but here are some of the top things to do in Italy:

• Take a cooking class
• Eat gelato at least twice a day
• Go to the beach
• Visit ancient ruins
• Ride on a Vespa

Download my FREE Italy Bucket List by clicking here.

Packing for Italy can be tricky depending on the time of year you’re visiting. Our family backpacked around Europe , spending an entire month in Italy. You can see our Italy Packing List here. No matter what time of year you go, be sure to pack a good pair of walking shoes. I love these sandals for warmer months and these boots for colder months.

The Best Way to See Italy in 10 Days 5 Italy Itinerary Ideas

I’ve compiled 5 itineraries for your 10 day trip to Italy. Any of these will be a great choice, it just depends on your personal preferences and what you really want to prioritize during your time in Italy. I’ve made some really classic itineraries and some more off the beaten path itineraries! Each Italy trip itinerary has been tried and tested by myself and I can highly recommend any of them. These are my top 5 Italy vacation ideas.

When to go: Shoulder Season (April-May or September-October)

This is one of the best Italy vacations for really energetic and active travelers. This itinerary is great for those visiting Italy for the first time, who think they may never have the opportunity to return again. Not everyone travels all the time, which is totally understandable. Some can’t afford to travel often, and some don’t really want to. If you think you’ll only be in Italy once in your life, this is the itinerary for you. It’s definitely an aggressive itinerary that requires you to move through the country nearly every day and spend about one day in each city, but it can be done!

I’ve done this Italy itinerary several times with friends and with my kids. It’s exhausting, but doable, and you’ll so SO much!

If you want to make your life easier, you can purchase this full itinerary , which includes interactive maps, an hour by hour guide, walking you through each moment of your trip. This full itinerary provides you with specific tours and classes, and exact train schedules, as well as recommended accommodations. My interactive 40 page PDF contains everything you need to pull off this amazing itinerary! 

Rome, Amalfi, Florence, Pisa, Cinque Terre, Milan, & Venice

Day 1: rome, day 2: rome, day 5: florence & pisa, day 9: venice, day 10: venice.

Most affordable flights to Italy will take you to Rome. It’s where I’ve flown into every time I’ve visited Italy. But shop around and find the best deal because you can begin this Italy itinerary at any point.

You can start your Italy itinerary anywhere you wish, but I always recommend starting in Rome . Rome is the third most visited city in Europe, after Paris and London, with 7-10 million visitors per year, and for good reason.

Rome is full of art, history, culture, and amazing food. It is incredible to wander down a street and suddenly come upon an ancient structure or statue! Ancient history is everywhere in this large city.

When you first arrive in Rome, jetlag will probably get the best of you. Give yourself a day to recover and take in all the beauty (and gelato ) that this ancient city has to offer. You’re going to get here and never want to leave.

There is so much to see and do in Rome, it could literally take you a lifetime. Don’t be discouraged by not being able to do it all. There is still so much that you can see just in a day and a half! Be sure to read my guide to Rome in One Day before you go.

Things you shouldn’t miss in Rome:

• Wake up early to beat the crowds
• Vespa Tour of Rome ( more info here Seriously one of the best things to do in Italy)
• Tour the Colosseum BOOK HERE
• See St. Peter’s Basilica BOOK HERE
• Wander Trastevere

Read More: What to do in Rome for a Day

You can easily get from Rome to the Amalfi coast by taking the train from Rome to Naples . From there, I recommend either taking the bus system along the coast, hiring a driver, or renting a car. Or even better, a Vespa! Parking is crazy along the Amalfi Coast . There are parking garages, but they fill up fast and cost a lot, so just be prepared and bring cash.

Time: 1 hour 10 minutes Cost: $24- Adults $12- Children

The Amalfi Coast is a gorgeous stretch of coastline that you could honestly spend weeks in, lazing away on the picturesque beaches and soaking up the sun. But if you’re on a mission to see it all, take an entire day to relax and enjoy the sites. There are many small towns dotting the winding coastline. I recommend picking one and spending a few hours at the beach.

I personally love the beach at Atrani because you don’t have to walk down a thousand stairs like Positano, but you still get that beautiful and classic look of Amalfi! You can rent 2 beach chairs and an umbrella on the beach for €20 cash.

Here are the things you cannot miss on the Amalfi Coast

• Spend at least one day on the beach
• Drive along the coast
• Take a day trip to Capri BOOK HERE
• Discover more things to do on the Amalfi Coast here

After you’ve had a relaxing day on the Amalfi Coast, it’s time to head to another classic city in Italy: Florence! Hop back on the bus or rental car or taxi to Naples , then take the train to Florence .

Time: 2.5 hours Cost: $44- Adults $22- Children

Florence is a beautiful city that is home to much of Italy’s Renaissance art. Home to Michaelangelo, da Vinci, Brunelleschi, Buonarroti, and Botticelli just to name a few, Florence is overflowing with ancient art and architecture! Spend a day and a half exploring museums , walking along the Ponte Vecchio , and eating gelato in this renowned city of culture. Tours and tickets MUST BE BOOKED IN ADVANCE ! Especially if you are going during the busy season.

Here are things you should not miss in Florence:

• See Michaelangelo’s David BOOK HERE
• Walk up the Duomo BOOK HERE
• Visit the Uffizi Gallery BOOK HERE
• Visit the Boboli Gardens

For the last half of your second day in Florence, I recommend a quick trip to Pisa on your way to Cinque Terre .

Time: 1 hour Cost: $11- Adults $5- Children

Head to Pisa to see the famed Leaning Tower of Pisa ! Yes, it’s touristy, but worth seeing, especially if this will be your only time in Italy. Going up to the top is really awesome. Kids must be 6 or older and you can book your tickets here.

After you’ve spent a few hours in Pisa, it’s time to head back on the train to Cinque Terre. Which town you train to will depend on which of the 5 towns you stay in. But if you don’t know that yet, you can book tickets to La Spezia and pick up a regional train to any of the towns Cinque Terre towns last minute.

Time: 1 hour Cost: $12- Adults $6- Children

Cinque Terre is one of my very favorite places in Italy ! It was one of my  best trips to Italy and i t’s what I picture parts of Italy must have looked 100 years ago! Cinque Terre, translated, means Five Lands , and is the area consisting of five villages:  Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore . They are all equally stunning, and whichever one you choose will be amazing. They all have their own special charm, and they also all have their own pros and cons. Read my complete guide to Cinque Terre to help you decide which town to stay in.

The beautiful towns built on cliffs are honestly one of the best things to see in Italy. Be sure to spend some time in the ocean during your time in Cinque Terre. Monterosso has a beautiful white sandy beach with chairs and umbrellas. I recommend that you spend at least two nights in Cinque Terre so that you have a full day and a half to explore all the towns. There is a train that goes between each town so that the area is very easy to navigate.

Here are things you should not miss in Cinque Terre:

• Visit all of the five towns by train
• Take the ferry at least once so you can see Cinque Terre from the water
• Eat gelato in every town

Once you’ve done some relaxing in Cinque Terre, hop on the train to Milan.

Time: 3.5 hours Cost: $26- Adults $13- Children

Stop into Milan for a quick trip to see the Duomo Cathedral and the Last Supper , which must be booked in advance ! Now you’re on your way to  Lake Como!

You have two great options for exploring Lake Como. You can either take the train and ferry around Lake Como, or you can rent a car. If you want to see more of the remote parts of Lake Como in the north, or just drive around the lake, I suggest you rent a car. But taking a train is simple and affordable. It’s just a matter of preference. I suggest that you take the train to Varenna where you can catch a ferry to Bellagio or Menaggio, Lake Como’s major towns.

Time: 40 minutes Cost: $8- Adults $4- Children

Welcome to one of my favorite places on earth. With gorgeous lakeside villas and a relaxing atmosphere, it’s one of the most beautiful places in Italy. I recommend you spend your time boating around the lake and checking out all the magnificent houses, wandering the streets of Bellagio, and renting a scooter to explore.

Things you shouldn’t miss in Lake Como:

• Rent a boat
• Visit George Clooney
• Villa del Balbianello (from Star Wars)

It’s time for your last train ride in Italy! Take the train from Varenna to Venice (be sure to book San Lucia and not Mestre). This will take you to the heart of Venice. From there you can take a water taxi or water bus to anywhere in the city.

Time: 4 hours Cost: $36- Adults $18- Children

You’ll be spending the last two days of your Italy trip in the lovely Venice. There’s no place on earth like it! Spend your last moments in Italy floating down the canals, getting lost in the winding alleyways, and eating gelato ! Read all about what to do in Venice before going.

Things not to miss in Venice:

• Gondola ride BOOK HERE
• Boat Ride to Colorful Burano BOOK HERE
• Murano Glass tour BOOK HERE
• Doge’s Palace & Bridge of Sighs BOOK HERE
• Book a Photoshoot in Venice: BOOK HERE (use code WANDERLUST) for a discount.

If this itinerary feels right for your 10 days in Italy, you can get the complete itinerary here. Let me do all the work for you! 

This is the best Italy itinerary for someone who wants a really classic experience . It covers the most important sites and major cities in Italy that most visitors will want to see on their first trip to Italy. This Italy itinerary allows you to spend a few days in each location, so you can get to know each city a little better. You can do this itinerary in any order, but most people choose to start in Rome.

Rome, Florence, & Venice

Day 1-3: rome.

You’ll begin your classic tour of Italy in the capital of Italy. There is so much to see in Rome, you’ll be glad you have three days to see it!

Here are some ideas for your 3 days in Rome:

• I recommend getting up early in the mornings to see sites like the Pantheon and Spanish Steps before the rest of the tourists wake up. The city is so beautiful in the morning light.
• Your first day in Rome is a great day to take a guided tour of the city so that you can get a lay of the land and check the main sites off. I recommend taking a Vespa Tour! It’s so much fun and even kids can go. Knowledgable tour guides drive you around the entire city, stopping to show you classic and little-known sites. They even stop for gelato. Read here for more Vespa Tour information.
• Eat dinner in Trastevere , where you’ll find many tiny little restaurants all serving delicious and authentic Italian cuisine.
• Try several gelato shops each day to find your favorite. Read this to find out the best gelato shops in Italy. My personal favorite is Gelato del Teatro!
• Take a cooking class . Rome is home to some of the best food in the world. Don’t skip out on learning how to make it yourself. This cooking class is amazing and I love this food tour.
• If you’re visiting Rome with Kids, there is so much to do! My kids love Rome, and not just for the gelato. Read my guide to Rome with kids.
• Book a Photoshoot in Rome: BOOK HERE (use code WANDERLUST) for a discount.

You can take a direct train from Rome to Florence in under an hour and a half. It’s an easy train ride from city center to city center.

Time: 1 hour 20 minutes Cost: $22- Adults $11- Children

Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is a must for your classic trip to Italy. You’ll have the opportunity to see celebrated artwork and architecture.

Some ideas for how to spend your next few days in Florence:

• Walk the Ponte Vecchio: This ancient bridge has been around forever and is one of the most iconic sites in Florence.
• Take a Food Tour of Florence: BOOK HERE
• Take pictures in the iconic Florence photobooth
• Book a Photoshoot in Florence: BOOK HERE (use code WANDERLUST) for a discount.
• Walk up the Duomo . You’ll need to get tickets for this, but this massive, iconic building is just gorgeous.
• Tour the many museums of Florence. Don’t miss Michaelangelo’s David.

You can easily get from Florence to Venice by train. Be sure to buy tickets to Venice Santa Lucia and NOT Mestre ! Santa Lucia will take you directly to the archipelago of Venice while Mestre takes you to the industrial part of Venice.

Time: 2 hours Cost: $37- Adults $17- Children

Spend the last few days of your classic Italy itinerary in Venice. It’s one of the best cities in Italy and unlike anywhere else in the world. If you play it right, Venice can be a relaxing way to end your trip. I seriously recommend waking up with the sun and exploring Venice in the early hours while it’s quiet and not overcrowded. It is truly beautiful. When it starts to get too busy or hot, go back to the hotel and take a nap! Then go back out around dinner time and explore until dark. I’ve done this during several trips to Venice and it was perfect!

Be sure to take advantage of the Vaporetto (public water transportation) and visit the islands of Murano and Burano!

Here are some ideas of things to do during your time in Venice:

• Take a Mask Making Class BOOK HERE
• Take a Murano Glass Tour BOOK HERE
• Visit Burano BOOK HERE
• Take a Gondola Ride BOOK HERE
• Go on a Food Tour BOOK HERE

When to go: Summer

This Lakes of Northern Italy itinerary is one of my favorites, and not something that most people try. This is best Italy itinerary if you’re intereseted in exploring the beautiful lakes of Northern Italy. It’s some of the most gorgeous scenery you’ll ever see in your life.

I love this itinerary for a family trip to Italy. I do recommend that if you choose this itinerary, you book a trip for late spring or early fall as the lakes do get crowded during the summer, and are very cold during the winter months.

Each lake has something unique to offer and it’s worth visiting all of them, but if this itinerary seems a little intense for your 10 days in Italy, I recommend cutting out one or two lakes and just sticking with two or three areas. The great thing about this itinerary is that you’ll also be able to see Milan, so you’ll get a taste of a large Italian city while also enjoying the countryside and beach time.

For this Northern Italy itinerary, I highly recommend flying into Milan and renting a car. The lakes and northern scenery can be best seen while taking leisurely winding drives around the lakes.

Milan, Lake Garda, Lake Iseo, Lake Como, & Lake Maggiore

On your first day of this 10 day Italy itienrary, you will fly into Milan. Here you can spend an entire day or half day exploring the city. Be sure not to miss the imposing Duomo of Milan and The Last Supper if you are interested in art history.

Known for its crystal clear waters, Lake Garda is a beautiful destination for relaxation and fun. Be sure to visit the stunning Scaligero Castle for magnificent views. You can also visit Gardaland , a great family amusement park!

Lake Iseo, known as Lago d’Iseo is a little-known lake between Garda and Como that is a hidden gem in Italy. You can spend your time here hiking, ferrying across the lake, or visiting Grumello Castle.

Lake Como is one of the best places in Italy and one of my favorite places on earth. Yes, it’s popular, but its worth spending at least a few days here. We spent several months and never got sick of it! Rent a boat and cruise the lake yourself and visit the famous town of Bellagio. You can read all about what to do in Lake Como here. 

Laggo Maggiore is the second largest lake in Italy and claims both Italy and Switzerland as it crosses the borders. It is located just south of the Swiss Alps which means there are beautiful mountains surrounding the lake all with incredible views. As such a large lake, you have many options for where to stay. There are beautiful lush gardens and old villas dotting the lake. you really can’t go wrong!

Head back to Milan after your wonderful 10 days on the lakes of Italy.

Sardinia and Sicily are the two largest islands in the Mediterranean Sea and are both worth visiting. You can easily ferry between the two islands via an overnight ferry, which can be really fun. Both islands offer a unique taste of Italy that is something a little different from the mainland boot!

Sardinia & Sicily

Spend 5 days on this beautiful Italian island that is the second largest in the Mediterranean Sea. It’s one of my favorite places to go in Italy to enjoy the beach! With over 1,200 miles of gorgeous coastline, sandy beaches, Star Wars-esque rocky beaches, beautiful mountains, and centuries of history, it’s an easy choice for anyone looking for a tropical Italian holiday. Italy beaches are known as some of the best in the world, and, in my opinion, most of them are on Sardinia!

Sardinia is known as a “Blue Zone” which means that people who live here live longer than anyone on Earth. The people there are so friendly, the food is amazing, and the scenery is absolutely breathtaking!

You can fly to Sardinia, or you can take the ferry from Livorno to Olbia, or take the ferry from Sicily to Cagliari. Depending on which side of the island you decide to spend most of your time on (remember, it’s huge) either one of these could work for you.

Time: Livorno to Olbia: 8 Hours Trapani to Cagliari: 11 hours Cost: Around $70/person with a car (extra for private room for overnight ferry)

Mountains, history, food, beaches…Sicily really does have it all! It’s one of the best places to vacation in Italy for sun lovers. Located in the soccer ball of Italy, just off the toe of the infamous boot, Sicily is the largest Meddeteranian island and worth spending a few days on. Sicily boasts some of the best beaches in Italy and evenin the world, like Cefalu, San Vito Lo Capo, Isola Bella, but also offers a rich history and culture as well as a delicious tradition of cullinary delights. Spend time on the beach, hiking, visiting ancient ruins , and tasting classic Sicilian food . It’s a great place to take a cooking class (BOOK HERE) .

Sicily is a great place to have a car so that you can really see the island. Read this guide to an Italy   road trip in Sicily .

You can fly to Sicily or take the ferry over. Flying into Naples and driving 4.5 hours down the coast can be beautiful and gives you the option of stopping in the Amalfi coast if you have time.

Time: Naples to Sicily: 5 Hours Cost: $40/person (ferry)

Exploring Tuscany is one of the most classic Italian experiences you can have. What I love about visiting Tuscany, especially as a family, is that it is laid back and you can usually rent a nice villa with a pool for a good price on VRBO, while being surrounded by enchanting scenery. I’ve created a list here of beautiful villas in Tuscany at affordable prices (ps. most of them have pools)!

For this Tuscany Itinerary, I highly recommend picking a home base in one place and taking day trips from there. Everywhere on this list is an easy drive or train ride from anywhere in Tuscany. Maybe take a day trip every other day from your home base. This is perfect if you want to do an Italy road trip through Tuscany.

If you’d rather base yourself in Florence and take a day trip to San Gimignano, Siena, and Chianti, this is a great tour that hits all those locations.

Florence, Siena, Chianti, San Gimignano, &

Visit Florence for a day trip. Enjoy the ancient feel the the city, walk the Ponte Vecchio, visit famous museums and see incredible artwork!

Spend time enjoying your Tuscan Villa. Look for cooking classes near you and try local food.

Take a day trip to the beautiful city of Lucca, stopping in Pisa on your way there. Climb up the leaning tower of Pisa (you must book in advance) .

Spend the majority of your time in Lucca, an amazing walled city, largely free from traffic and filled with beautiful architecture. I think it’s one of the best cities to visit in Italy. Rent a bike and ride around the ancient walls of the city. You can even take a self-guided bike tour of the city.   Be sure to grab a few gelatos during your time in Lucca as these were some of my favorite gelato shops in Italy.

Take a day to explore your own little Tuscan town. Sometimes the local hidden gems can be your favorite part of your trip to Italy! You never know what you’ll find. As the locals what they recommend doing nearby.

With lush vineyards, olive groves, and hilltop towns, Chianti is a beautiful region of Tuscany. This is a great area to take a scenic drive or rent bikes to enjoy more views. If you’d like some help seeing Chianti, you can actually book a half day tour that will take you to all the best spots.

San Gimignano is a beautiful and well-kept walled city in Tuscany. This medival city still has its original house towers.

This beautiful medival town will steal your heart the moment you enter its walls. Be prepared to climb some steep hills in Siena. Grab a pizza and hang out on the Piazza del Campo, the fan shaped public square where everyone comes to enjoy the city.

Spend one last day in Florence seeing the sites before heading home.

Whichever itinerary you choose for your trip to Italy will be wonderful. You really can’t go wrong by choosing any of these. I love helping my readers plan their travel, so if you need any help please reach out to me on Facebook or Instagram . You can learn more information about traveling to Italy on my Italy Website, I Heart Italy . If you want some great tips on traveling Italy, join my Italy Travel Group on Facebook for more helpful tips!

Book Your Flight s and Car Find a budget airlines by using  Skyscanner . This is my favorite way to search for flights because they crawl websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know you’re getting the best deal. Learn more tips for finding the best flight deals here. For cars, I like to use Rental Cars because they have good filters and its easy to search for multiple companies.

Book Your Accommodation My preferred way to stay around the world is VRBO . I find it usually gives you a unique local experience in any destination. If you want to stay in a hotel, use  Booking , as it consistently gives the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels. I use them both all the time.

Always Get Travel Insurance Travel insurance protects you and your family against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s peace of mind in case anything goes wrong. I never travel without it. I’ve been using World Nomads for the last few years and love how easy it is to use. I have also used Allianz . Compare rates to see which is best for the coverage you need.

Looking for ways to save money on travel? Check out my  resource page  for the companies I use for traveling! I share everything I use to save me time and money.

Wanderlust Crew

26 thoughts on “ how to spend 10 days in italy: 5 italy itinerary ideas for 2024 ”.

Thanks for your detailed descriptions of each place. I am so tempted to visit all of them but I will be on a cruise this time. If you only have one day to visit between Pisa, Florence, and Cinque Terre, which one(s) would you recommend? We are a group of multi-generation travellers (incl 1 72 yo and 1 4 yo kid). Thanks.

Hi Angie! A cruise sounds so incredible!! You’re going to love Italy. Hands down I would choose Cinque Terre! All 5 towns are so incredible and they are easily accessible by the trains. Not sure of the stamina of the 72 year old and the 4 year old, but I would avoid Corniglia just because there are a million stairs! There IS a bus that will take you from the train station to the top of the town though, but it was very crowded and unreliable. Riomaggiore and Vernazza were my favorites though. You’re going to love it! Let me know where you end up going! Have the best time!! xo Vanessa

Just purchased your 10 day itinerary and love it! Hubby and I are planning for Sept/Oct 2020 for 2 weeks. We are thinking about using 5-6 of those days to visit Sardina while we are there. Any suggestions for trimming a few days off the 10 day itinerary and suggestions for Sardinia. Or, is it too much to add Sardinia in 2 weeks? Thanks! Erin

Hi Erin, I’d cut out Lake Como and Venice and head to Sardinia instead. We spent a month in Sardinia last year and loved it. It’s super low key and not very touristy! Feel free to email me if you’d like help with a customized itinerary. xo Vanessa

Hi there. We are a family of three (1 son age 13yo) traveling to Italy in mid/end of May 2020. We definitely want to see Rome and then I am torn between going north(Florence/NW(Cinque Terre)/really North Dolomites/Alps)or South towards Sorrento and Amalfi coast. We have 10 days flying out of NYC. We are first time visitors to Italy and don’t want a jam packed schedule. Can you point me in the right direction? Love all your info! TY!

Hey Diane! That sounds like an amazing trip. I agree, especially with teens you don’t want to pack too much in. How long are you in Italy for? I would recommend flying into Rome, spending 2-3 days there, then catching the train to Cinque Terre. Then spend a day in Florence and see the famous artwork. With teens I like to break up the history/culture with some beach time! You can read more about Cinque Terre here: https://wanderlustcrew.com/things-to-do-in-cinque-terre/ May is a great time to go. Great weather, but not too crazy busy! Let me know if you need more help planning! xo Vanessa

We are there for 10 days. I decided Rome/Florence for day/Cinque Terre/Lake region and home out of Milan. I have read all your i fo and LOVE it. Ty!

That sounds perfect! Definitely spend some time in Lake Como!! It’s one of my favorite places ever! Good luck and holler if you need help! Enjoy!

What do you do with the bags, when you do the half day tour to Pisa enroute to Cinque Terre. Is there storage facility at the train station?

Hey Danny! Great question! There are storage lockers in the Pisa Train station. You can find that here: https://www.stowyourbags.com/en/shop/pisa/luggage-storage-pisa-centrale-station/

Hi there. We are couple planning our vacation to Italy, we will be there for 12 days. We are flying into Rome so we will spend some time there, we also plan on going down to the Amalfi coast. We would like to add another spot or two to visit during our trip, we’ve both been to Florence, so we were thinking about maybe doing an Airbnb in Tuscany, or perhaps going somewhere south since we’ll be in Amalfi. We are not really sure what to do. Any suggestions/or recommendations would be appreciated. Thank you!

Hi Charles. Have you thought of visiting Puglia or hopping a flight to Sardinia or Sicily for something a little different? Renting a house in Tuscany would also be lovely. You honestly can’t go wrong!

Great post with lots of helpful information in Italy travel. Italy is my favorite country, I just can’t get enough of it!

Thanks Whitney. Italy has everything! Love it!

Hi – We are family of 4 which includes boys age of 5 and 10. We are visiting Italy for 11 days in March 9-20. I am more concern about the weather than anything else. What cities should I cover?

Hi Rohan, Italy will be great! The weather will vary greatly in March depending on what area you’re going to. If you want warmer, definitely stay south. If you need any help planning feel free to email me at [email protected] xo Vanessa

This guide is amazing! My boyfriend and I will be in Italy for 12 days at the end of December and beginning of January. It will be our first time and we are having a hard time because we want to see everything. Any recommendations for this time of the year? We heard that the Amalfi Coast shuts down during the winter. Should we save that for another trip? Thanks!

Hey Katie. So exciting about Italy! You guys will love it! Amalfi does sort of shut down, but it’s also great to see it without hordes of tourists. Cinque Terre is also another amazing place. Are you doing Venice? It’s beautiful at Christmas time.

This is the first truly helpful piece of content I’ve read trying to plan my honeymoon in Italy and not knowing where to start. Super grateful that I came across this!

This is a fantastic guide! Thank you! My husband and I are planning for one week in May – 9-10 days max. So wondering if I do your “see-it-all” itinerary but take out Lake Como and Milan. That’ll give me time to do a day trip to Capri right? How would you break up the 10 days for Rome, Amalfi (Positano & Capri), Florence, Pisa, Cinque Terre and Venice?

Yes you could definitely cut out anything. I think 2 days in each location is sufficient. 1 day for Capri.

We plan on visiting Italy in the fall and hitting Rome-Amalfi-Naples(Pompeii and Mt.Vesuv)-Florence-Venice. We planned to fly in to Rome, but we’re just wondering if you typically book a flight out from Milan or another city at the end of these itineraries or just take a train back down to Rome for the last day so you can book round trip? We were also interested in maybe spending a day relaxing at a winery and visiting a hot spring. Would Florence be a good spot for that? Thanks!

Tuscany is a great place to relax at a winery. If it’s cheaper to fly round trip out of Rome, I would just take the train from Milan to Rome. The trains are really affordable in Italy. Here is some more train info that might be helpful: https://iheartitaly.co/train-italy/

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10 Day Trip to Italy: The Perfect Itinerary You Should Steal

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you buy or book through one of these links, I may earn a small commission .

Are you in the midst of planning your dream trip to Italy? Then get ready for beautiful villages, ancient ruins, delicious fresh food and wine, and amazing espresso. There’s a lot to see over a 10 day trip to Italy, and this itinerary will make sure you get the most out of your time.

Italy is one of the most magical places I’ve ever visited, and my sixth country.  I’ll never forget looking out the plane window as we descended into Rome. We were treated to stunning views of the Italian coastline, with little white boats dotting the intensely blue sea.

My husband and I are still talking about this trip because it was so mind-blowingly awesome, with some of our favorite memories together.  We reminisce on photos all the time, and pine to return to Italy as soon as we can. There is still so much in this country that we’ve yet to see.

With so much to explore in Italy, it can be difficult to condense the many worthy sights into one trip.  However, this classic 10 day Italy itinerary will help any first-timer experience the best that Italy has to offer.  Let’s get into it!

The Perfect 10 Day Italy Trip Itinerary

Here is a quick overview of this itinerary, which will take you through three regions of Italy, all with their own unique character. By the end of this trip, you’ll have gotten to experience the ancient city of Rome, the Ligurian Sea views of Cinque Terre, and the rolling hills and Renaissance history of Tuscany.

• Rome – 4 Days
• Cinque Terre – 3 Days
• Florence – 3 Days

Additionally, this 10 day Italy trip itinerary assumes you will be getting around Italy mostly by train, since a car is largely impractical in these destinations. This itinerary is detailed, but lengthy. Therefore, I’ve created the below table of contents so you can skip ahead.

Table of Contents

• Day 1: Rome – Settle In
• Day 2: Rome – Walking Tour
• Day 3: Rome – The Vatican
• Day 4: Rome – Ancient Sites
• Day 5: Cinque Terre – Settle In
• Day 6: Cinque Terre – Vernazza & Monterosso al Mare
• Day 7: Cinque Terre – High Trail to Manarola
• Day 8: Florence – Settle in & Food Tour
• Day 9: Florence – Explore the City
• Day 10: Florence – Chianti Classico Day Trip
• Fly Home: Head to FLR Airport

Best Time to Visit Italy

10 day italy trip stop #1: rome, day 1: rome.

This will be your arrival day in Rome, aka The Eternal City. We took a red-eye flight the night before in order to arrive by noon on our first day. This gave us the full day to settle in, and start working through our jet lag.

Arrival in Rome

You will arrive into Fiumicino (FCO), or Leonardo da Vinci Airport. First, you’ll need to clear customs, which could take a while depending on the day. Then you can proceed to picking up any checked bags, though we personally prefer carry-on only.

After that, I recommend finding an ATM, as having cash on hand is useful in Italy. We took out about €200 to start. I do not recommend bringing USD (or other currency) to convert on arrival, as currency exchange counters are notorious for unfavorable rates.

Leonardo Express

Next, it’s time to navigate to the Rome city center via the Leonardo Express :

• First you will need to buy your tickets, which cost €14 per person. Purchase them online here , or at a kiosk in the airport. Note that the kiosks often have lines and can be slow.
• To find the train platform, follow well-marked airport signs with a train icon or that say “stazione” or “TRENI”.
• Take the Leonardo Express to Termini Station in Rome (Roma Termini). The train leaves approximately every 15 minutes, and the ride takes about 32 minutes. 

Once you arrive into Termini Station, take the metro from there to your lodging. We booked an Airbnb near the Spanish Steps, so we took Line A to the Spagna stop (click here for maps).

The metro is very easy to use, as trains run frequently and tickets can be purchased in any metro station, tobacco shops, or newsstand kiosks. One way tickets cost €1.50 each, and there are also various multi-use passes available, explained here .

By now, you should be navigating to your lodging, whether that means taking the metro, bus, walking, or grabbing a taxi.  As we walked from Spagna, I’ll never forget the sweltering heat and buildings shaded in sunburnt yellows, oranges, and reds emerging all around me. The beautiful fountain at the foot of the Spanish Steps was looking very inviting.

Once you get settled in, you may want to pick up a few simple grocery items to have on hand.  This is very helpful with staying on budget during your trip, even if just breakfast or lunch.  We were able to find a small grocery store that was only about a five minute walk from our place.

If possible, I recommend staying somewhere with a terrace and Nespresso machine.  These items were instrumental in taking my Rome experience to the next level.

Head Out for Food

One thing you can do your first night is grab dinner, and perhaps go for an evening walk.  We were exhausted from our long travel day, so chose not to veer too far from our lodging. However, we did find some adorable street dining just a few streets over from the Spanish Steps for cacio e pepe, which is essentially Italian mac and cheese.

Travel Savvy Tip

Take advantage of your jetlag.  If you find yourself restless in the wee hours of the morning, set out for an early walk.  Getting up early your first day helps get your sleep back on schedule sooner.

One of the best things my husband and I ever did was go out for a morning 6 am walk in Rome.  There is nothing like seeing the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain when they are completely deserted, save for a few photographers.  We were lucky to be staying within a ten minute walk of both places.

Day 2: Rome

It’s time to hit the ground running for your first full day in Rome.  First of all, read my previous jet lag tip and consider heading out for an early walk.  It’s magical to see Rome’s most iconic sights before they become super crowded.

Visit a Cafe

Next, eat some breakfast at your place or head to a café.  Or do both.  I’m pretty sure we ate an espresso or cappuccino along with a cornetto (Italian croissant) every day, regardless of any other breakfast we had.  Did I mention you might gain weight while you’re in Italy?

After you’ve fueled up some, head out for a morning sightseeing walk.  This could be a guided tour or simply self-guided.  A guided tour like this one will help you get a better understanding of your surroundings, while self-guided is free and will give you more freedom and flexibility.

If you prefer to explore on your own, here is a beautiful route I’ve mapped out that will show you the highlights of Rome (link to Part 1 and Part 2 ).  This walk is one of our best memories, and didn’t cost a dime! Bring your camera and expect to spend two to four hours exploring, depending on your pace.

Here is a list of some of the amazing sights you’ll see:

• Begin at Piazza Barberini
• Climb up the Spanish Steps
• Check out the view over Piazza del Popolo from Terrazza del Pincio
• Stroll charming Via Margutta
• Explore the Pantheon
• View the fountains in Piazza Navona
• Check out the markets stalls in Campo de’ Fiori
• View the River Tiber from 15th century bridge Ponte Sisto
• Take a selfie after throwing a coin into the Trevi Fountain

After your walk, take an afternoon rest at your lodging and eat some lunch. 

You’ll run into fresh water fountains (nasoni) all around Rome.  These are the result of aqueducts built by the ancient Romans. 

The water is fresh from the mountains near Rome and is tested regularly, so it’s perfectly safe to drink!  We carried a water bottle around with us as we explored, and constantly filled up when we’d run into a fountain.

Borghese Gallery

At 5 pm, check out the Borghese Gallery, which has an impressive collection of sculptures and paintings housed in a 17th century villa. Reservations are required, and the museum is open every day except Monday from 9 am to 7 pm.  Tickets for a two-hour time slot cost €15 and can be purchased here .

Finish off your day with pizza. We ate ours at Da Francesco , which is a cozy space in an awesome location near Piazza Navona. We loved the opportunity to see the fountains of this gorgeous piazza lit up at night when we were done.

Day 3: Rome

By day 3 of your 10 day trip to Italy, hopefully your jetlag is improving. Mine and my husband’s was pretty bad, and it took about three or four days to stop waking up full of energy at 2 am. I was thankful for the great espresso all around me!

Tour The Vatican

The Vatican is an absolute must on any 10 day Italy itinerary. I knew next to nothing about it before our trip, but during our visit I learned a ton about how the Vatican was once a seat of power that greatly influenced western civilization.

Of the 110 acres and 1,400 rooms, here are some of the highlights you will see:

• Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel
• St. Peter’s Basilica
• St.  Peter’s Square
• Gallery of the Maps (my favorite)

You can easily reach Vatican City from Rome via the metro.  You will need to take Line A to the Ottaviano stop. Many tour groups meet nearby the station, or you can simply walk five minutes to the Vatican Museums.

In summer, the Vatican can see as many as 20,000 visitors per day.  Therefore, it’s imperative to book your tickets in advance, so you do not have to wait in a very long line outside.  Tickets can be purchased here for €17 .

The Vatican is also enormous. A guided tour will help you cut through the crowds and focus your attention so you understand what you’re looking at. We did this 4-hour tour that, while tiring, did our visit justice and allowed us to see the Sistine Chapel before the worst of the crowds.

As The Vatican is a religious site, you must dress appropriately, or your entrance could be denied. If you cover your shoulders and knees and avoid wearing controversial graphic tees, you should be fine.

Additionally, the Vatican is closed on Sundays, except the last Sunday of the month, which is a free day. While this will save you money, the crowds will be terrible and could dampen your experience. All that body heat in tight rooms can make things feel very stuffy and claustrophobic.

Our Vatican tour took a lot out of us and we were still jetlagged, so we had a low key afternoon on Day 3. This left us nice and refreshed to go back out for dinner around 7 pm.

Do note that many restaurants prefer you make reservations. However, you can often make them at the last minute and walk-ins are sometimes still accepted. In Rome, dinner is generally served between 7 pm and 11 pm.

Be careful not to accidentally end up at a tourist trap, which are generally found near popular tourist sites and tend to have blown-up menus showing pictures of food at the entrance.  These spots are not only inauthentic, but also overpriced. Moving even one street over from a major tourist spot can mean better dining options.

We enjoyed dining in the Piazza Navona neighborhood so much the first night, that we had to return the next evening. This time we chose Saltimbocca, which had beautiful street dining and served authentic pasta and seafood dishes.

If you are trying to save money and aren’t especially particular about wine, then always order a caraffa of the house wine.  There is usually a red and white selection, and they are always good!  I didn’t have a single bad glass of wine throughout our 10 day Italy trip.

Day 4: Rome

Ancient Rome

Spend your last day exploring different aspects of ancient Rome.  Plan to spend a total of two to four hours at the following:

• Colosseum: Once a site of gladiator fights and other public displays
• Roman Forum: Center of public life in ancient Rome
• Palatine Hill: Site of ancient aristocratic settlements

All three of these sites are covered under one €16 ticket, which can be bought here . You will need to reserve a time slot when booking your ticket, and a €2 presale fee will also apply.

In peak summer season, it’s best to arrive early in the morning for cooler air and smaller crowds. All of these sights are outdoors, and the hot midday sun can turn wandering through fascinating ruins into a chore.

After a few hours of sightseeing, take a gelato break – the colosseum is virtually surrounded by gelaterias.

Capitoline Museums

In the evening, if you have energy left from your Rome adventures, head back out to the Capitoline Museums.  Sitting on top of the Capitoline Hill, this museum features an expansive collection of paintings and sculptures, many of which came from the city of Rome. The museum is open every day until 7:30 pm, and tickets to the various exhibitions can be purchased here . 

Full disclosure, we actually skipped this sight because we were exhausted from 3 days of wandering around Rome. We were ready for some wine, and were super excited for our dinner reservations.

Atmospheric Dinner

Hands down, the place my husband and I remember the most from our 10 day Italy trip is Old Bear. This rustic spot is located on a quiet street, and has the perfect ambiance for your last evening in Rome. We were glad to have made reservations the night before, since many people were waiting a long time in the street for a table to open up.

I will never forget my delicious pumpkin lasagna – and I’m not even a lasagna person! Unfortunately, I have no photos because I was face first in my food.

There are a few money saving tricks for sightseeing in Rome. The first is considering whether the Roma Pass may be worth it for you. There are options for 48 and 72 hour periods, and could save you money depending on how many included sights you wish to see, and how often you’ll use public transportation.

Additionally, some museums do a free day each month.  Check their respective websites to see if any dates fall during your trip.  That said, free days also bring big crowds and long waits, which might not be ideal if you’re tight on time.

10 Day Italy Trip Stop #2: Cinque Terre

Day 5: Cinque Terre

The next iconic stop on your 10 day Italy trip is Liguria, home to the colorful Cinque Terre villages that seemingly pop out from the vineyard covered hillsides. To reach Cinque Terre from Rome, take the train from Roma Termini station to La Spezia Centrale. La Spezia is a larger town located south of Cinque Terre, and the jumping point for all five villages (listed out below from south to north):

• Riomaggiore
• Monterosso al Mare

From La Spezia Centrale, hop on the Cinque Terre Express (€4) to the village you are staying in. We picked Corniglia, which is the middle village and third stop.  If you also choose Corniglia, be aware that reaching this particular village additionally requires climbing over 300 steps or grabbing a shuttle bus (€1.50).

Once you’re settled, do some exploring around your village before finding dinner.  These five towns are tiny and easy to quickly see on foot, though some are more hilly than others.  This post provides more info about each village and advice on choosing where to stay.

Just keep in mind that no matter where you base yourself, you’ll still be able to easily visit the other four villages with a quick train ride.

Trains in Italy are often late.  Therefore, I recommend not purchasing tickets with tight connections.

In this instance, you could purchase your journey from Roma Termini to your Cinque Terre village on the Trenitalia website in one transaction. However, these connections are often twenty minutes or less, which isn’t ideal if your first train gets delayed.

As it is not more expensive to book each leg of the trip separately, I suggest waiting to purchase your Cinque Terre ticket until you arrive in La Spezia. These tickets are very easy to purchase at the ticket counter or machines right on site.

Day 6: Cinque Terre

The five villages of Cinque Terre are connected by hiking paths that offer some incredible views over the Ligurian Sea. You’d be hard pressed to find something like this anywhere else; therefore, it’s crucial to get out on the trails at least a little bit.

If you get tired or decide not to hike after all, the train will be there for you to fall back on, but the views are not nearly as good!

Hike to Vernazza

Today you will hike the Blue Path, or Cinque Terre’s most famous coastal trail, from Corniglia to Vernazza, and then finally onto Monterosso al Mare.  I suggest getting an early start, as the trails can get crowded by mid-afternoon. Note that this particular trail requires purchasing a pass for 7 euros, which you can buy online or right at the trailhead when it opens around 9 am.

If you aren’t staying in Corniglia, you will first need to take the train there in order to begin your hike (just prepare for those stairs, or grab the shuttle from the train station).  You could also hike in the other direction, starting in Monterosso al Mare. However, then you’ll miss the striking beach views when descending into Monterosso, as well as the chance to jump in the water at the end!

The first leg of the hike between Corniglia and Vernazza will take around 1.5 hours.  Be sure to take in the amazing views of Vernazza from the trail as you approach the village.  Once in Vernazza, take a break from hiking to do some exploring:

• Eat gelato at Gelateria Vernazza (the best gelato we ate in Cinque Terre)
• Grab a snack, such as a fried seafood cone
• Stroll around the harbor
• Pop into the Santa Margherita di Antiochia Church, which dates back to the 14th century
• Take the tunnel to Vernazza’s secluded rock beach

Hike to Monterosso al Mare

Next, continue your hike on the Blue Trail to Monterosso al Mare, which should take another 1.5 hours.  Monterosso al Mare is flatter than the other four villages, which makes it easier to explore.  It’s also known for having the nicest beach of the five villages. 

When you arrive, you’ll likely be exhausted and covered in sweat. Therefore, you must reward yourself with an aperol spritz and snack on the water, like we did at Nuovo Bar Eden.

Next it’s time to jump into the Ligurian Sea, after staring longingly at it from the trails all day. For €30, you can rent two chairs and an umbrella at Bagno Eden . 

This was definitely one of the highlights of my Cinque Terre experience, and I was glad we thought ahead and brought swimwear with us. When we were finally dry, Aaron and I took the train back to Corniglia to get ready for dinner.

You may need to purchase a Cinque Terre Card . If you plan to hike the Blue Trail, then you will at least need a Trekking Card (€7.50) for each day you plan to use that trail. The Trekking Card will also cover any shuttle buses.

You may also save money by purchasing the Treno Card instead of the Trekking Card. The price will depend on whether you need it for one (€16), two (€29) or three days (€41).

The Treno Card covers the Blue Path, unlimited train travel, and shuttle buses. It is worth purchasing for at least one day if you plan to hike the Blue Trail, take the train at least twice, and use a shuttle bus one time. Either card can be purchased online here .

Dinner in Riomaggiore

At the moment, the trail that leads to Riomaggiore from Manarola is closed due to landslides. Instead of hiking, you can give your legs a rest and take the train to Riomaggiore for dinner.

An excellent restaurant to check out is Bar e Vini a Pié de Ma .  I recommend making a reservation to ensure you get to experience this restaurant’s beautiful cliffside terrace.  There was so much ambiance during sunset, so we took our time sipping wine and ordering every course available.

Day 7: Cinque Terre

There is only one more village left to visit: Manarola. To reach it, you will hike in the opposite direction from Corniglia on a quiet, scenic trail.

Hike to Manarola

Today you’ll hike from Corniglia to Manarola via Volastra (trail #587 to #586 to #506).  This is a higher trail that will have you going up, up, up at the beginning, and then back down seemingly endless stairs at the end.  This hike takes around 2 to 2.5 hours to complete.

While the hike begins with a long climb up many stone steps, it eventually levels out and becomes quite shady and pleasant.  You are then rewarded with incredible sea views as you pass through charming vineyards. 

Once in Manarola, join the queue for lunch at Nessun Dorma to experience their famous views and meat and cheese platters. While on the waterfront path to the restaurant, be sure to turn around to take in the view of Manarola across the harbor. It is postcard perfect!

To be honest, my husband and I did not linger long in Manarola.  It was the busiest of the five villages, and being that it was the middle of the day, the crowds were bad.  If you wish to avoid crowds, it’s best to visit Manarola in the evening when the day trippers have left.

Dinner in Corniglia

For a memorable seafood dinner on your last night, make a reservation at A Cantina da Mananan in Corniglia.  This cozy space can only seat about 20 people at a time, so the tables will fill up.

Be prepared for plenty of ambiance, as well as plates featuring local fresh catches. We particularly enjoyed the taglierini ai frutti di mare.

10 Day Italy Trip Stop #3: Florence

Day 8: florence.

It’s time for the last leg of your 10 day Italy trip: Florence . This Tuscan city is the birthplace of the Renaissance, and today it continues to attract lovers of food, art, and architecture.

Florence is easily reached from Cinque Terre via train.  You will first need to grab the Cinque Terre Express from your village to La Spezia. From La Spezia, catch your next train to Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station, either directly or with one connection. Purchase your train tickets online in advance on Trenitalia or simply right at the gate.

Upon arrival, I highly recommend joining an evening food tour in Florence’s Oltrarno neighborhood. This was one of the best experiences of our entire 10 day Italy trip, and it also provided a nice intro to Florence. By the end of the tour, we were essentially served a full meal paired with delicious Italian wines.

We were grateful to receive some restaurant recommendations from our guide. Plus, my husband and I even returned to a few places from the tour the next day.

On the Oltrarno side of town, be sure to take note of the small wine windows on the facades of some buildings.  These were used during the Renaissance era for families to sell wine directly out of their homes.

Citizens would show up to the windows with their empty bottles, which the family would then fill for them.

Day 9: Florence

Explore florence.

On your first full day in Florence, hit the ground running with your sightseeing. It’s easy to explore the city center’s compact area in one busy day, whether on your own or with a guided tour .

Here are the top must-do’s in Florence:

• Accademia Gallery: This museum houses Michelangelo’s larger-than-life statue of David, along with several of his other unfinished sculptures.  In addition, you can also find an impressive collection of paintings and musical instruments. Purchase tickets online for €12.
• Ponte Vecchio: Cross this medieval bridge over the Arno River to the lesser-visited Oltrarno neighborhood. Ponte Vecchio has been lined with shops since the 13th century, and they help to give the bridge its unique appearance. The bridge is totally free to visit.
• Piazza del Duomo: This striking piazza tends to be teeming with tourists admiring the colorful marble facade of the Basilica of Santa Maria del Fiore.  This beautiful cathedral is famous for its imposing dome, created by Filippo Brunelleschi. The cathedral is free to visit, though you may need to wait in line. If you wish to climb the dome, visit the bell tower, or check out the museum, tickets can be purchased online here .
• Uffizi Gallery: This museum is housed in a Renaissance era building with stunning frescoed ceilings. Here, you can see several centuries worth of Renaissance art and other treasures, including significant works like Sandro Botticelli’s Birth of Venus. Tickets cost €20 and can be purchased online here .

While admission to some of the above places can be purchased on-site, I do not recommend doing this during busy tourist seasons. This largely encompasses the months of June through August, when long waits will eat up your day while you overheat in line.

Even worse – time slots could potentially fill up, meaning you miss the chance to visit entirely. For these reasons, it is best to book ahead online whenever possible.

Dinner in Florence

If you eat meat, you’re in luck because Florence restaurants typically include plenty of it on their menus. This evening, I recommend dining at a place known for Florence’s most famous dish: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, or Florentine Steak.

These steaks are huge cuts served on a bone, and are best shared with at least one other person. The cuts are also quite thick, but only cooked for a couple minutes on each side. This means you can expect your meat to be served rare/medium rare, or quite pink in the middle.

At the recommendation of our food tour guide, we dined at Trattoria 4 Leoni , a classy restaurant tucked into a tiny, quaint square in Oltrarno.

Be sure to save room for gelato after dinner across the square at Gelateria Della Passera. Alternatively, our scoops from Perché no!… were our favorite in Florence, and just a ten minute walk back across the Arno River.

Day 10: Florence

Piazza michelangelo.

Start your last day in Florence with a morning stroll to Oltrarno for some of the best scenery in town at Piazza Michelangelo.  This small park requires an uphill climb, but rewards you with panoramic views over all of Florence. From this perspective, you can appreciate just how giant the dome of Santa Maria del Fiore truly is, as it protrudes over the skyline.

If you can muster the energy, I highly recommend visiting Piazza Michelangelo at sunrise.  My husband and I woke up at 5:30 am to make the half hour journey, but it was so worth it.  There were few other people there with us, and the sunrise lighting was incredible.

Day Trip to Chianti Classico

On day two of your Florence stay, you could choose to remain in the city center and see additional sights that you missed on day one. However, I personally recommend getting out of town with a day trip to Chianti Classico.

A day trip to this wine region will give you a taste of the green rolling hills (and *ahem* great wine) that this region is known for.  Plus, some of the region’s great wineries can be found just forty minutes south of Florence. You could either rent a car to explore on your own, or join this small group tour .

This day trip is perfect for those seeking a change of pace from the crowds of Florence. Plus, you will get to experience the delicious red wines of Chianti Classico and admire some of Italy’s most gorgeous scenery. If exploring on your own, check out my post here for ideas on what to do in Chianti Classico .

Keep a lookout for the black rooster on each bottle of Chianti Classico wine. This symbol denotes wines that are authentically from this region and follow the correct blend of grapes.

Sigh…it had to end sometime. By now, you’ve done and seen so much during your 10 day Italy trip. Therefore, it’s time to head home and give your wallet and legs a break.

Make your way to the Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR or Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola).  There are several ways you could get there, whether by car, bus, or tram.

If you rented a car near the airport to visit Chianti Classico, then it will be really easy to drop the car off and shuttle from there. Otherwise, a taxi or the tram are the next easiest options.

The tram is the most cost effective, as tickets are €1.50 each way. To reach the airport, you will need to take Line T2 ( schedule here ) from the Unità tram stop in the Florence city center. The ride takes about twenty minutes, and trams run frequently, making several stops along the way.

It is also possible to grab the “Vola in Bus” as a direct shuttle to the Florence airport. Connections are available hourly between 10:00 am to 8:00 pm ( schedule here ) from the BUSITALIA Bus Station Via Santa Caterina da Siena, 17 (near the Santa Maria Novella train station). The journey costs €6, which can be paid in cash on the bus, and takes about twenty minutes.

You may be wondering when the best time is to do this 10 day Italy itinerary. While that will be personal for everyone, there are some months that are more ideal than others. 

For example, we did our 10 day Italy trip in mid-August, when the weather was sweltering and the crowds were thick. This is not the preferred month to visit Italy, but our dates were fixed since we were in Europe for a wedding.

Here is a brief rundown of what you can expect Italy to be like during different times of the year:

June to August

This is Italy’s busiest tourist season, with the highest prices and biggest crowds. Summer in Italy also tends to be very hot and dry, which can be great for the beach, but less ideal for lots of walking and sightseeing.

May or September

These two months are shoulder season. While still popular times to visit due to pleasantly warm weather, the crowds are not as bad as peak season. If you do not want to visit during the chilly low season, but fear battling terrible summer crowds, May and September are a happy medium.

October to April

These months are low season in Italy. They typically bring a little more rain and cooler temperatures, though the weather is generally still comfortable for walking around and exploring. For example, the average high in Rome for January and February is in the mid 50’s ( ° F). If you are trying to save money, or want to avoid long waits and have more sights to yourself, then low season is for you.

Are you excited yet? I certainly hope so, because this 10 day itinerary will ensure you have the perfect Italy trip. With friendly people, delicious wine and espresso, and fresh food everywhere, what’s not to love?  And don’t even get me started on the scenery…

With that said, I hope you have the magical experience that my husband and I had! This 10 day Italy itinerary will definitely have you on your way with planning a trip to remember.

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Wonderful Time in Italy We were covered from the moment we landed in Rome. The drivers were great, the connections were flawless, and it was well-planned a...

Frequently topping polls of the most beautiful countries in the world, Italy is a diverse destination that deserves repeat visits. That said, it’s perfectly possible to pack plenty of unforgettable experiences into a 10-day trip. The question is, how to choose where to go? Read on to discover eight unique 10-day Italy itineraries for how to spend 10 days in Italy.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Italy, created by local experts

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Enchanting Italian Lakes

Experience the picturesque lakes of Northern Italy, including Lake Garda, Como, Lugano and Maggiore; explore the charming Borromean Islands – former favourites of Ernest Hemingway – and stroll the romantic streets of Verona and Milan. All of this, and much more, with this self-drive trip!

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From Venice to Florence: A Grand Tour of Northern Italy

From the atmospheric canals of Venice and the picturesque coastline of Cinque Terre, to the trendy designer boutiques of Milan and the Renaissance-infused streets of Florence, Northern Italy has plenty to offer. Experience it all with this comprehensive trip.

See our 10 days in Italy itineraries below, or get inspired by duration: 5 days - 7-days - 14 days - North Italy - South Italy

Itinerary #1: Cuisine, culture and captivating countryside in Piedmont

Located in northwest Italy, surrounded by the French and Swiss Alps, Piedmont is a wealthy region known for its culinary delights. This 10-day itinerary combines cuisine, culture, and nature, encompassing the regional capital, Turin, and the countryside around Alba.

Fly to Milan and transfer to Turin, your base for the first five days . Explore the elegant city known for its Baroque avenues, palaces, and art. Day three offers a guided e-bike tour, while day four is dedicated to the Egyptian Museum and Royal Palace, showcasing remarkable artefacts and opulent royal history.

On day five , transfer to Alba in the Langhe area. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming town with its medieval towers, palaces, and cobblestone streets. Day six brings a hands-on cooking class and wine tasting at Azienda Agricola Wine Estate, where you'll participate in a four-course cooking experience and sample sensational wines.

Day seven offers a relaxing hike in Langa, strolling through the scenic Barolo hills and rewarding yourself with coffee and Moscato wine at the end. Day eight features a wine tour of Barbaresco, known for its outstanding red wines, and the medieval villages of Nieve and Barbaresco.

On your last day , explore Alba further, including the late-Gothic Duomo and the bustling Via Vittorio Emanuele, where you can indulge in the region's finest local produce, including wines, truffles, cheeses, mushrooms, and the delightful nocciola cake.

Interest piqued? Browse our customisable  Piedmont Discovery trip. 

Itinerary overview

Check out this overview of the 10 days Italy itinerary.

Ready to embark on an adventure? Book your trip now .

Turin, Piedmont © Shutterstock

Langhe vineyards in Piedmont, Italy © Giorgio1978/Shutterstock

Itinerary #2: Fascinating Southern Italy - Naples, Sorrento and Capri

Discover the wonders of southern Italy on this 10-day itinerary , where you'll embark on a journey through charming towns along the Amalfi Coast, explore the island of Capri, savour the culinary delights of Naples, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Pompeii.

Start your adventure in Naples, a vibrant city nestled by the Bay of Naples. Spend two days exploring its historic streets, visiting iconic sites, strolling along the seafront, and indulging in Neapolitan street food.

On the third day , venture to Pompeii and witness its well-preserved ruins. Continue your journey to Sorrento on the fourth day , where you'll enjoy a private walking tour. Indulge in the town's charming streets and delectable dining options.

Days five and six are dedicated to exploring the picturesque town of Positano. Wander its winding streets, relax on the beach, or embark on a sailing excursion along the coast to discover hidden coves and the historic town of Amalfi.

Experience the luxurious atmosphere of Capri on days seven to nine . Delight in your free time to explore the island, visit its charming towns, and revel in panoramic views.

Conclude your journey with a private transfer and hydrofoil ride from Capri to Naples' Capodichino Airport on the final day. Depart with cherished memories of your unforgettable southern Italy adventure. Read more .

Check this overview of the 10 days Italy itinerary.

Feeling curious? Take a step forward and book this trip now .

Sorrento, Italy © Shutterstock

Ischia Island, Naples © Shutterstock

Giardini di Augusto in Capri, Italy ©Shutterstoc k

Itinerary #3: A gastronomic journey in Tuscany and Amalfi Coast

Experience the best of Italy in just 10 days , from Florence to the Amalfi Coast, where your senses will be tantalized at every turn. Start with a private transfer to your Florence accommodation and explore the city.

On day two, venture to the Chianti Wine Region for a scenic hike through vineyards and olive groves. Immerse yourself in Tuscan cuisine on day three with a hands-on cooking experience in Florence.

Discover the renowned Montalcino area on day four , indulging in a full-day tour of medieval villages and wine cellars, with a multi-course Tuscan lunch. Travel to Naples on day five and embark on a guided tour, immersing yourself in the city's authentic atmosphere and culinary traditions.

Explore the ancient city of Pompeii on day six , learning about its fascinating history and enjoying a 3-course lunch. Hike to the crater of Mount Vesuvius for breathtaking views on the same day.

Transfer to Positano on day seven and enjoy leisure time exploring this stunning coastal town.

Discover the enchanting Amalfi Coast on days eight and nine, with a coach tour offering picturesque views, visits to charming towns, and optional hikes along the famous Path of the Gods trail.

On the final day, bid farewell to Italy with a private transfer to Naples Airport, carrying unforgettable memories of the landscapes, culture, and cuisine that defined your journey. Read more .

Excited to discover? Waste no time and book this trip now .

Amalfi, Italy © proslgn/Shutterstock

Positano, italy. Amalfi Coast ©Shutterstock

Asciano with Val d'Orcia © Shutterstock

Itinerary #4: Treasures of Italy: Venice, Florence and Rome

From the charming waterways of Venice to the Renaissance-imbued streets of Florence, to the historic city of Rome, Italy's top three cities are as unique as they are unmissable. Experience them all on this fascinating 10-day trip .

The itinerary begins in Venice, where you are greeted by a private driver at the airport and taken to a hotel. The first day is free for leisure activities.

On the second day , you will enjoy a delicious breakfast before embarking on a comprehensive city tour with a private guide.

Day three starts with a motor launch trip to the enchanting islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. After the island excursion, check out and take a scenic train journey to Florence.

On day four , a private guided tour takes visitors to Florence's iconic sights, including the Duomo, Piazza della Repubblica, and Pitti Palace, among others.

Day five offers an excursion to Pisa to marvel at the Leaning Tower and a visit to the charming town of Lucca. Afterwards, return to Florence to enjoy the rest of the evening at their leisure.

On day six , board a train to Rome. A guided tour of Rome's famous landmarks awaits on days seven and eight .

Day nine is a free day for you to explore Rome independently or engage in optional activities. On day ten , after breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure. Read more.

Excited by the possibilities? Book this trip now .

Santa Maria del Diore Duomo in Florence © Shutterstock

Gondolas in Venice © Shutterstock

The Forum Romanum ruins in Rome, Italy © Shutterstock

Itinerary #5: Best of south: Rome, Naples, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast

Embark on this 10-day journey through the enchanting landscapes of South Italy. Arrive at Rome International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Rome. For the first two day s, explore the captivating beauty and history of the city at your own pace.

After breakfast on day three , board a high-speed train to Naples. Discover the city's magnificent palaces, winding streets, ancient churches, and underground passages on a guided tour. Enjoy a leisurely day four in Naples, immersing yourself in its vibrant atmosphere.

Day five takes you to Pompeii, where you'll witness the remarkably preserved ruins of this ancient city. Continue to Herculaneum for another archaeological marvel. Day six begins with a visit to Mount Vesuvius, followed by a tour of the picturesque town of Sorrento.

On day seven , explore the captivating island of Capri, marveling at its dramatic rock formations and mesmerizing caves. Day eight is dedicated to the scenic Amalfi Coast, where you'll visit picturesque towns and admire breathtaking coastal views.

Enjoy a relaxing morning in Sorrento on day nine before taking a train back to Rome. Transfer to your hotel and reflect on your journey. On day ten, have a final breakfast before being transferred to Rome International Airport for your onward flight.

Immerse yourself in the charm of South Italy with this unforgettable 10-day trip, filled with culture, history, and breathtaking sights. Read more.

Striving for unforgettable memories? Book this trip now to create unforgettable moments.

St. Peter Cathedral in the Vatican, Rome © Shutterstock

Amalfi, Italy © Shutterstock

View on Naples © Shutterstock

Itinerary #6: Legend and Legacy - A Tour of Sicily

Explore the picturesque island of Sicily on this 10-day trip. Begin at Catania Airport, where you'll pick up your rental car. Check-in at the hotel and enjoy free time to explore Taormina.

On day two , relax and bask in the crystal-clear waters of Taormina's diverse beaches. Day three takes you on a guided trip to the Aeolian Islands, where you'll visit Panarea and Stromboli for a sunset tour.

Drive to Palermo, the capital city of Sicily, on day four . Take the afternoon to explore at your own pace. On day five, visit the medieval town of Erice, witness salt harvesting at the Sea Saltpans of Trapani, and explore the ancient city of Segesta.

Day six includes a visit to the Roman Villa of Casale and a guided tour of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. On day seven , venture to the small island of Ustica for a panoramic tour and boat trip.

Drive to Catania on day eight and check in at a hotel. Enjoy leisure time in Catania, known for its proximity to Mount Etna. Day nine takes you to the Sapienza Refuge, where you'll witness recent eruptions and explore the Wild Craters of Mount Etna. Indulge in delicious tastings at an organic farm.

On the final day , drive to Catania Airport to drop off your rental car. Bid farewell to the stunning island of Sicily, filled with unforgettable memories.

Tonnara Scopello © Shutterstock

The stage of Taormina's Greek Theater, Taormina, Sicily ©Shutterstock

Famous fountain of shame on baroque Piazza Pretoria, Palermo © Shutterstock

Itinerary #7: An Italian dream trip: Rome, Sicily and the Amalfi Coast

Experience the essence of Italy on a fantastic 10-day trip . Begin in Rome, where you'll delve into ancient history and take a cookery class. Then, venture to Sicily, marvel at Baroque architecture, and explore the iconic Mount Etna. Conclude your adventure with the enchanting Amalfi Coast and Capri.

Arrive at Rome's Leonardo Da Vinci International Airport. Embark on a treasure hunt with a private guide on day two , discovering Rome's ancient history.

Day three allows leisure time to explore Rome's art, culture, and architecture. In the afternoon, join a cooking class in Campo de' Fiori.

Fly to Catania, Sicily, on day four . Explore the city with a guided tour, visiting the Neapolis Archaeological Park and Ortygia Island. Enjoy a delightful dinner in Syracuse.

Discover Noto's Baroque buildings on day five , visiting the cathedral and Palazzo Ducezio. Day six starts with a chocolate-making workshop in Modica, followed by a guided walking tour of Ragusa's Baroque architecture.

Explore Mount Etna's volcanic craters and visit a prestigious wine cellar on day seven . Then, learn about pistachio farming and indulge in tastings in Bronte.

Fly to Naples on day eight . On day nine , enjoy a full-day tour of the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, visiting Ravello's gardens, walking to Amalfi along the Iron Valley, and exploring the town.

On day ten , transfer to Rome's airport after breakfast, bidding farewell to a remarkable 10-day journey through Italy. Read more .

Thirsty for adventure? Don't miss the opportunity to book this trip now .

Etna in the background, Taormina, Sicily ©Shutterstock

Naples Old Town ©Shutterstock

Itinerary #8: Dive into Apulia - cuisine & culture

Explore the beautiful region of Puglia in Italy on this 10-day itinerary . Begin your first day in Bari, where you'll have free time to explore the elegant Murat district and the historic centre of Bari Vecchia.

Drive to Castel del Monte on day two to admire the fascinating fortress. Return to Bari for a guided street food tour, indulging in local culinary delights.

Day three takes you to the picturesque towns of Ostuni and Alberobello. Spend day four enjoying the beaches between Polignano a Mare and Monopoli, experiencing stunning coastlines and rich cultural heritage.

Immerse yourself in nature on day five with a walk through the Reserve of Torre Guaceto. Day six brings you to Taranto, a city steeped in history, with its ancient centre and strategic location.

On day seven , embark on a boat tour in Taranto marina, exploring the Ionian Sea and the chance to spot dolphins and whales. Day eight takes you to Lecce, known for its art and historic charm.

Learn the art of making orecchiette pasta on day nine during a cooking class led by a professional chef. Taste local products and drinks as you delve into the culinary traditions.

On day ten , return to Bari Airport, reflecting on the wonderful experiences gained during this unforgettable journey through Puglia. Read more .

Fascinated by the itinerary? Don't wait, book this trip now .

You might also want to browse our customisable Italy itineraries or talk to our local Italy experts .

View on Bari ©Shutterstock

Ostuni, or "The White City" ©Shutterstock

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 16.04.2024

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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Dynamic pricing from  $3,595

From intriguing history to incredible food and wine, this 10-day classic Italy trip immerses you in three iconic cities. Walk through ancient ruins in the footsteps of Julius Caesar. Get so close to Michelangelo’s masterpieces that the marble comes to life. Discover a secret world as you glide through dreamy canals. The eternal beauty of Rome, the Renaissance splendor of Florence, and the mystical ambiance of Venice will captivate you.

Dynamic pricing from  $3,575

During this 10-day Tuscany wine and food tour, indulge in the grandeur of rustic cuisine and develop an intimate understanding of the gorgeous landscape. Your private tours led by specialist guides offer insight into the heritage of local flavors. This customizable tour will shine a brighter light on Tuscany’s culinary marvels, such as visiting renowned winemaking regions, basking in the enticing aromas of a private kitchen, and scouring woodlands for the elusive white truffle.

Italy offers you a world of remarkable landscapes, unparalleled wines, sensational artistry, and vivacious food. This 10-day custom-tailored Italy tour will bring you to the country’s magnificent north. You will find a world steeped in history and filled with pristine lakes, canals and Shakespearean drama, truffles and Barolo, castles and villas. You will find yourself in the opulent land of dukes and Doge’s, rich meals, fabulous hills, lavish gardens, noteworthy churches, and celebrated mountains. 

History and culture surface through traditional cuisine and celebrated wine during your personalized senior tour of Italy. Indulge in the exceptional flavors and the local specialties of Piedmont and Emilia-Romagna. Savor the distinct taste of white truffles, craft the elegant stuffed shells of tortellini pasta, and experience the excitement of driving a Ferrari on a search for authentic heritage spanning more than two millennia. From forested countryside to magnificent medieval towers and charming city skylines, travel from Turin to Bologna for an immersive tour at your pace indulging in passionate history, flavorful cuisine, and captivating tradition.

Dynamic pricing from  $7,795

Idyllic seaside villages, incredible traditional heritage, and opulent palaces highlight the mixture of luxury and style that stretches from Puglia to the Amalfi Coast during your personalized tour of Southern Italy. Gargoyles and cherubs adorn the lavish Baroque façade of Lecce’s unforgettable basilica while circular homes with conical rooftops overtake Alberobello’s hills and resemble a storybook village. Turquoise waters splash against white, gold, and black sand beaches found beneath the colorful antique homes. Taste the citrus of homemade limoncello, delight in the perfect texture of olive oil and bask in the wonders of the seaside while you explore labyrinthine streets and revel in luxuries.  To best plan your ideal vacation and tour Italy, consider browsing our other Italian itineraries.

Experience incredible romance in a refined ambiance during your personalized Italian tour for lovers. Whether on your honeymoon or just ready to embrace a passionate getaway, you will bask in beautiful food, the comforts of traditional opulence, and the charm of Italy’s natural beauty. Share in the delights of the views over the Tyrrhenian Sea, and then discover the wonders of Renaissance art before appreciating the grandeur of Imperial architecture. Whether strolling in a manicured garden or standing in front of a priceless painting, luxuriating in an antique villa, or watching an artisan crafter create, unforgettable passion will accentuate your romance during your Italy tour.  For other itineraries and inspiration, click here.

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The sea charms you with layers of indigo and azure colors brushing against the small stretch of beach. Mountains encircle the enchanting and secluded coastal town. You can sit on the balcony and watch fishing boats roll into the marina, hold your partner’s hand, and indulge in the scenery with a glass of wine. Your Italy tour to Rome, Naples, and Sorrento is handmade to offer the romance of antiquity and amorousness of the coastline, ensuring that you can relax in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Italy with the one you love.

Fashion will reign supreme as you indulge in the chic style inspired by history during your custom tailored tour to Italy.  Reveal the fabulous and fierce designs of the ultimate fashion destination as you experience the designer streets and high fashion outlets with a personal shopper eager to uncover remarkable finds. Discover the captivating beauty of ancient Rome, the Renaissance flourish of Florence, and the artistry of Milan as the past and the future collide to inspire artists and stylists. From shoes to handbags, perfume to tailored suits, luxury, and elegance come first while the boutiques stay open on your exclusive shopping trip to Italy. Learn more as you browse some of our Italy itinerary options and handcraft your ideal vacation.

The paths outside of Venice wind along the region of Italy rich with Renaissance art, succulent cuisine, and vibrant culture. Your custom tailored tour will take you from the Venetian Lagoon to the foothills of the Italian Alps to enjoy the splendors of the impressive architecture and the captivating landscape. Marvel at the lush cherry orchards and vineyards around Vicenza, and then delight in the aromas of sage and pumpkin near Soave. Follow the trails that connect the Venetian islands for a unique view of fishermen’s homes as well as marble palaces as you actively pursue grandeur while discovering around the region of Veneto.

Dynamic pricing from  $3,665

This 10-day culinary journey through Italy presents a feast for the senses as you encounter new sights, flavors, and smells in this rich landscape. Your Italian culinary legacy tour begins in Palermo and travels to Rome, both revealing Italy’s diverse character in the open-air markets, kitchens, and regional ingredients. Finally, the rolling hills of Tuscany will beckon as you bask in the vibrant neighborhoods and charming countryside of Florence.

Embrace the wonderment of Rome, Florence and Venice as you enjoy the highlights of these iconic cities on this 10-day itinerary. From lavish gardens to the impressive museums, romantic cafes to private corridors, you have the key to the picturesque treasures of Italy.

From awe-inspiring art to luscious landscapes, from the Trevi Fountain to Siena’s Campo to Florence’s unforgettable Duomo, this is a tour that will take you past your wildest dreams and beyond the places that tourists usually go. You’ll be moved, you’ll be inspired, you’ll be captivated: whatever you long to do and whoever you long to be, you can find it on this marvelous tour of Italy.

Your customizable 10-day Italy Christmas tour immerses you in Italian culture and illuminates the deep-rooted connection between ancient tradition and Christian heritage embodied in the art, architecture, cuisine, and customs. From a graceful Christmas tree contrasting the powerful Colosseum walls to the vibrant display of lights accentuating Nativity scenes decorating the streets of Florence, Italy provides a holiday season brimming with welcoming, cheerful ambiance for all to enjoy. 

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Dynamic pricing from  $3,695

Embark on this 10-day luxury tour of the Amalfi Coast, Capri, Positano, and Rome that combines modern comforts with historic Italian delights. A picturesque canvas of seaside towns inhabited with warm indigenous hospitality and vibrant beach culture, the Amalfi is Italy’s meridian of relaxation and beauty. Sip champagne and dine on seafood at one of the many gourmet restaurants along the crystal blue seashore and find yourself enjoying gelato at “The Terrace of Infinity” in Ravello, perched upon the jagged cliffs that overlook the Mediterranean. Travel back through ancient civilization and visit the marvels that define Rome, Capri, and the Amalfi Coast.

While the reputation of Italian wine and food is legendary, the true art of the vinicultural and culinary spirit will shine during you custom-tailored wine and food tour of Sicily. Over the course of nearly three millennia, Sicily has acted as the center of Mediterranean trade, bringing vibrant culture and sensational flavor to the rugged mountains, fertile plains, and golden coastline. You will experience the majestic mixture of customs and the alluring continuation of tradition within the context of modern luxury that unveils the beauty of the vines, the splendors of the seasonal ingredients, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

Embrace elegance, style, ancient history, and la dolce vita during your 10-day classic and customizable tour of Italy that immerses you in treasured traditions and preserved majesty. Blend the beauty of the sea with the vibrant heritage of legendary artwork that is found in the grand marble palaces of Venice and the Mediterranean allure of the Amalfi Coast this classic Italian experience is crafted just for you.

There is something for everyone on this luxurious 10-day journey of the Italian highlights. From the sweeping hills and olive orchards of the region of Tuscany to the placid shores of the Amalfi Coast, travelers are provided with ample time to relax between excursions that are handcrafted to ensure maximum enjoyment. Immerse yourself in the cultural treasures that abound in this unique landscape.

Italy’s splendor goes beyond its museums; it also emanates from the Adriatic coast and rolling rugged mountains, the quiet canals, and hidden passageways. A long network of natural grottos burrows into the earth. Ancient homes resembling structures fit for fantastical creatures decorate the Mediterranean landscape. White sand beaches contain preserved Roman kilns. A medieval town hides centuries-old caves once used as housing by local residents. Your custom tailored family vacation tour in Italy introduces the family to the wonders of Italy in and out of the museums, providing the beauty and history for which the country is known, along with immersing the family in endless fun.

The trails of Southern Italy lead you through the unforgettable splendors of Roman ruins and volcanic peaks, coastal vistas, and tranquil villages. Overlook cliffs as the stunning rock formations rise out of the Mediterranean Sea. Climb to the top of Mount Vesuvius for a sweeping panorama of the Bay of Naples and then stroll along the ancient streets of Pompeii to witness lava as it sprouts from a conical peak like fireworks on a secluded island near Sicily. Your custom tailored tour lets you experience the history and beauty of Italy’s southern landscapes from the shores of Amalfi to the Sicilian Coast.

The quality of Italian goods is known around the world, from handmade leather shoes to creamy gelato, glossy gondolas to delightful table wine. Artisan goldsmiths have passed down their trade for generations and chefs have learned to create succulent seafood meals as they watched their mothers cook. Your custom tailored tour gives you a hands-on cultural experience of Italy to learn the secrets of fishing in the Ligurian Sea and the shaping of molten glass into elegant décor in Murano. Do more than just admire the artistry of the museums and architecture, craft some of your own Italian artistry to take home with you.

The Renaissance brought talent and taste, the love of art and architecture, cuisine and history. Your personalized Italy itinerary will bring the perfect balance of knowledge and activity, flavor and discovery for the aspiring modern polymath. Bask in the pristine beauty of Michelangelo’s David and traverse the galleries of the Vatican to reach the Sistine Chapel, and then indulge in the layered flavors of rustic Tuscan cuisine before trying your hand at crafting the perfect gelato. From the natural colors of the Blue Grotto to the gilded frescoes of St. Mark’s Basilica, you can have it all in Italy.

You cannot have romance without Rome, passion without Florence, and stolen kisses without Venice. Your personalized Italian tour whisks you to an exotic honeymoon meant as a getaway for first-time lovers or a celebration reliving years of desire in a country that has spent millennia perfecting affection. Ride in a gondola as the sun sets over the Grand Canal, and listen to seductive music on a boat floating down the Tiber River. Enjoy a hand-held stroll in a lavish Florentine garden, and visit with the princess of passion, Shakespeare’s Juliet, in Verona, while indulging in endless romance the Italian way.

From the canal waters of Venice to the jagged and daring peaks of the Dolomites, Northern Italy’s diverse landscape brims with adventure and ancient history. Embark on a gondola ride down Venice’s famed Grand Canal, shop on the 16th-century Rialto Bridge, hike the rugged Dolomite Mountains, and discover the allure of bustling Milan. You will relax on the picturesque Lake Como, making memories with your children as you splash in its refreshing waters. Visit 500-year-old villas, explore an elaborate garden maze and discover ancient Roman secrets in Verona on this customized, 10-day tour of Northern Italy.

Dynamic pricing from  $3,895

Natural beauty and fascinating history will captivate you during your customizable 10-day Italy tour from Cinque Terre to the Amalfi Coast, revealing prestige, wealth, artistry, and remarkable heritage that dates back thousands of years. Whether settling into the luxuries of elite palaces or traversing terraced gardens on a rugged cliff, you will be immersed in the cultures by the sea and the opulence of the past.

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• Europe Tours
• Italy Tours
• Italy 10-Day Itinerary And Tours

Italy 10-Day Tours and Itineraries

Discover the best 10-Day multi-day tours in Italy with Bookmundi. We offer a total of 48 Italy 10-Day tours and itineraries with 143 customer reviews.

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

53 Trips in Italy with 143 Reviews

• Starts Rome, Italy
• Ends Rome, Italy

Italian Discovery

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Explorer
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Bus, Coach, Boat & Ferry
• Age Range 6-80 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,616
• Special Deal (6%): - US$ 157
• Total Price from: US$ 2,459
• May 19 10+ seats left
• May 26 10+ seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

European Highlights

• Activities Mountains & City sightseeing
• Accommodation Hotel & Villa
• Transport Coach, Boat & Train
• Age Range 10-99 yrs
• 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 Venice, Italy

Italy Experience

• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture , Countryside and village visits & Train tours 'data-more-tripid='3752'>+3 more
• Transport Ferry, Train, Bus, Boat & Taxi
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,720
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 706
• Total Price from: US$ 4,014
• May 20 Only 5 seats left
• Jun 10 Only 4 seats left

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

Explore Southern Italy

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Natural landmarks sightseeing Cultural, religious and historic sites , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Countryside and village visits & Walking tours 'data-more-tripid='3780'>+2 more
• Transport Train, Bus, Private Vehicle & Taxi
• May 22 Only 2 seats left
• May 26 Only 3 seats left

Italian Scene

• Activities Countryside and village visits & Local culture Countryside and village visits , Local culture , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Walking tours 'data-more-tripid='21247'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Transport Coach
• Age Range 5-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,975
• Special Deal (17%): - US$ 340
• Total Price from: US$ 1,635

• Ends Paris, France

Best of Italy, Switzerland and Paris

• Trip customizable
• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Transport Boat, Private Vehicle & Coach
• Age Range 8-95 yrs
• Jun 02 10+ seats left

Highlights of Southern Italy and Sicily

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture
• Accommodation Hotel, Hut & Villa
• Transport Coach, Ferry, Boat, 4WD Jeep & Private Vehicle
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,115
• Special Deal (24%): - US$ 502
• Total Price from: US$ 1,613
• Jun 16 Only 3 seats left
• Jun 30 Only 3 seats left

Trending Destinations in Italy

• Ends Venice, Italy

Easy Pace Italy

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Museum and gallery visits Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits , Farm and plantation visits & Countryside and village visits 'data-more-tripid='21206'>+2 more
• Transport Coach & Boat
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,950
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 590
• Total Price from: US$ 3,360
• Jun 02 Only 10 seats left

Italian Espresso

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture , Walking tours & Museum and gallery visits 'data-more-tripid='23128'>+2 more
• Transport Boat, Train & Coach
• Age Range 18-35 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,194
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 329
• Total Price from: US$ 1,865
• May 19 Only 5 seats left

A Time to Remember

• Transport Private Vehicle, Boat & Bus

• Starts Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik to Venice

• Activities City sightseeing & Art and architecture City sightseeing , Art and architecture & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='3758'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Resort & Hostel
• Transport Train, Bus, Private Vehicle & Boat
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,185
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 546
• Total Price from: US$ 1,639
• May 23 Only 3 seats left
• Jun 06 Only 7 seats left

• Starts Sicily, Italy
• Ends Taormina, Italy

Best of Sicily

• Activities Art and architecture & City sightseeing
• Transport Bus
• Age Range 13-99 yrs
• Jun 01 Only 10 seats left
• Jun 08 Only 10 seats left

• Starts Orvieto, Italy

Via Francigena: Orvieto to Rome

• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Walking tours & Trekking and Hiking
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• May 14 10+ seats left
• May 15 10+ seats left

• Ends Palermo, Italy

Southern Italy and Sicily

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture & Cruise 'data-more-tripid='20888'>+2 more
• Transport Coach & Ferry
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,625
• Special Deal (16%): - US$ 580
• Total Price from: US$ 3,045
• May 23 Only 9 seats left
• Jun 06 10+ seats left

Traveling to Italy for 10 days? Chat with a local travel specialist in Italy who can help organize your trip.

Italy 10-Days Tour Reviews

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• Travel Planning Guide

10 Days in Italy: The Best Tours

Imagine yourself on a 10-day adventure in Italy, exploring captivating destinations, savoring delicious cuisine, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. But which 10-day tour should you choose? Don't worry, we've done the research for you, analyzing numerous guided tours based on price, guest ratings, and activities, to find the top 10-day tours to Italy. These options offer the perfect length of time to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Italy, striking a harmonious balance between relaxation and exhilaration. Great for museums & attractions, food, nightlife, and beaches, it's easy to see why Italy is such a fun destination. Get ready to embark on a thrilling journey that will leave you rejuvenated and yearning for more. Let's get to it, find your perfect tour from our chosen list below.

• Dubrovnik to Venice 10 Days, $2185.00
• Easy Pace Italy (Classic, Summer, 10 Days) 10 Days, $4425.00
• Taste of Italy with Sorrento - 10 Days/9 Nights 10 Days, $3745.00

Which 10-day tour options are available in Italy?

Here are the important factors:

• 42 trip options analyzed
• $291 average price per day (USD)
• 4.45 of 5 average rating
• 31 people or less on average

You'll be surprised at the array of tours lasting 10 days in Italy, as there is something for everyone. It's no wonder that visitors can't get enough of these tours, boasting an impressive average guest rating of 4.45 out of 5 stars. Picture yourself joining a group of like-minded adventurers, with an average maximum size of 31 people, ensuring a fantastic blend of social and personalized experiences. Regarding physical activity , the tours are categorized as easy, moderate, heart-pumping, and serious, with the majority being easy. As for transportation options, the tours are thoughtfully categorized as coach / bus and train & rail, with the most being coach / bus. With our thorough analysis of 42 tours lasting 10 days, we've found the best. So rest assured that Italy has something to captivate every kind of traveler.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best 10-Day Tours in Italy

Dubrovnik to venice.

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for tours lasting 10 days.

This fantastic voyage has a rating of 4 out of 5 stars, visiting Croatia, Slovenia, and Italy. This trip visits 6 destinations, including Split, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Zagreb, and Ljubljana along the way. Your journey will begin in Dubrovnik and end in Venice. Lasting 10 days, the maximum group size is 16 people, and it's good for guests age 15 and older. Organized by Intrepid Travel , this is a great deal because it's only $164 per day.

• Sightseeing

Easy Pace Italy (Classic, Summer, 10 Days)

• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

With a stellar 4.9 out of 5 rating, this extraordinary journey, visiting Italy and Vatican City (Holy See), is the perfect choice. And since the priority is on local culture and family-friendly activities, this tour is a great choice. Experience a trip that takes you to 6 remarkable destinations, including Florence, Pisa, Bologna, and Vatican City. Begin your trip in Rome and complete it with a memorable finale in Venice. Spanning across 10 days, the journey accommodates 40 individuals, and is suitable for guests age 5 and older. Offered by Insight Vacations , this remarkable journey is priced at just $373 per day. Don't miss out on this incredible experience.

• In-depth Cultural

Taste of Italy with Sorrento - 10 Days/9 Nights

This exceptional trip offering by CIE Tours has received a 4.8 out of 5 rating. On this 10-day journey you can unwind while also making new memories. Explore 8 incredible locations on this trip, including Orvieto, Rome, Sorrento, and Pompeii. Your journey starts off in Venice and finishes in Sorrento. With a group size of 44 people, it's suitable for guests age 8 and older. Rest assured, this trip is all about local culture and family-friendly activities, guaranteeing an unforgettable adventure. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $375 per day.

Italian Scene (Summer, 10 Days)

Check out this trip that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 4.6 out of 5 rating, visiting Italy and Vatican City (Holy See). Discover a journey that spans 11 destinations, with notable stops in Como, Saronno, Pisa, and Vatican City. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Rome. This extraordinary adventure also revolves around local culture and family-friendly activities. Spanning across 10 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 45 participants, and it's great for guests age 5 to 80. Brought to you by the renowned Costsaver , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $180 per day - an unbeatable value.

• Coach / Bus

Sensational Sicily

This 10-day voyage is ideal for guests age 13 and older. And priced at only $188 per day, it's a great value, too. This trip takes you on an adventure to 13 destinations, including Syracuse, Noto, Ragusa, and Piazza Armerina. Palermo kicks off your expedition, serving as both the starting and finishing point. It's offered by Omega Tours , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

Absolute Sicily: Palermo - Palermo (10 days/9 nights)

Priced at just $178 per day, this terrific 10-day trip is ideal for guests age 6 and older. With 13 destinations to explore, you'll get the chance to see Noto, Ragusa, Modica, and Piazza Armerina, and more. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Palermo. Organized by the reputable Destination Italia , this is one of the best tours on this list.

Grand Tour of Switzerland

Check out this incredible voyage that has received a 5 out of 5 rating from previous guests, visiting Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and Italy. You'll love the emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities, too. With a duration of 10 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 50 people, and is good for guests age 5 and older. Along the way, this journey encompasses 14 destinations, including Lake Maggiore, Tasch, Zermatt, and Lausanne. Zurich will be both the start and end of your journey. This fantastic option, organized by Cosmos , presents an unbeatable value at just $250 per day.

Italian Scene (Winter, 10 Days)

Spanning over 10 days, this voyage has a maximum size of 52 individuals. Welcoming guests age 5 to 80, it is organized by Costsaver , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. This itinerary covers 11 captivating destinations, with stops in Naples, Cassino, Assisi, and Venice, among others. Your adventure starts and ends in Rome. With an emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities, you know you'll have an amazing adventure. Available at an unbeatable price of only $168 per day, this option also has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from previous guests.

The Sicilian

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional trip that has garnered a 5 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 10 days, this jouney will have 30 participants, and it warmly welcomes guests age 5 to 80. And since the priority is on local culture and family-friendly activities, this tour is a great choice. Expertly organized by Globus , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $290 per day.

A Taste of Italy: 10 Days

This memorable journey, visiting Italy and Vatican City (Holy See), is offered by Omega Tours which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $267 per day. Uncover the beauty of 13 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Sorrento, Assisi, Siena, and Florence. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Rome. Rest assured, this trip is all about local culture and family-friendly activities, guaranteeing an unforgettable adventure. The maximum group size is 45 people, welcoming guests age 6 and older.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Italy , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy , The Best Historical Tours in Italy , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy , The Best 3-Day Tours in Italy , The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy , The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Italy , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy , The Best Adventure Tours to Italy , The Best Eco Tours in Italy , The Best Train & Rail Tours in Italy , The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in Italy , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy , The Best Cultural Tours in Italy , The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy , The Best Music Tours in Italy , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy , The Best Self Drive Tours in Italy , The Best Walking Tours in Italy , The Best Tours Under $1000 in Italy , The Best Luxury Tours to Italy , The Best Budget Tours to Italy , The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy , The Best Contiki Tours to Italy , or The Best G Adventures Tours to Italy for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Rome , The Best 3-Day Tours from Florence , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Venice , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Catania , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Naples , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Florence , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Milan , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Palermo , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bari , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Pisa , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bolzano , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Merano , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Olbia , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bologna , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Cagliari , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Alberobello , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Como , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Montecatini , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Civitavecchia , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Siena , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Turin , The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome , The Best 10-Day Tours from Venice , The Best 10-Day Tours from Palermo , The Best 10-Day Tours from Catania , The Best 10-Day Tours from Milan , The Best 10-Day Tours from Naples , The Best 2-Week Tours from Rome , The Best 2-Week Tours from Venice , The Best 2-Week Tours from Milan , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Palermo for more package tour options.

How much do 10-day tours to Italy cost?

Visitors will find a large range of terrific options for tours lasting 10 days when planning a visit to Italy. The price of these specific trips can vary according to length, destinations, and travel style. The average price of tours lasting 10 days in Italy based on data from 42 options is an affordable $291 per day. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Italy .

And for more information on Italy, see Italy Travel Costs and Italy Hotel Costs .

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Unforgettable 10-Day Italy Itinerary Ideas

The epicentre of European charm, Italy enchants each guest with its timeless beauty, magnificent architecture and gastronomic experiences that await you around every corner. Most people will instantly recognise an abundance of Italy’s landmarks and landscapes. All this can make choosing what destinations to include in your 10-day Italy itinerary feel like an impossible task. 

The dream would be to spend months on end discovering the home of the ancient Romans and filling your days with cultural and historical exploration. But with work and other commitments, most of us have much less time than that.

However, if you have the opportunity to spend 10 days in Italy, in that time you will be able to experience some of the best the country has to offer. With such abounding beauty in one country, any 10-day trip to Italy is guaranteed to be marvellous.

Everyone travels differently; in between the wine, pizza and gelato, there are a number of ways to spend your time. These five itineraries demonstrate the best way to see Italy in 10 days. 

Post Contents

The Best Time to Do a 10-Day Tour of Italy

1. truffle hunting in chianti, 2. milan city tour on a historic tram, 3.  parmigiano reggiano tasting, 4. vespa sidecar tour of rome, 5. godfather tour in sicily, 6. hike the cinque terre, 7. local lemon farm tour & limoncello tasting, 8. ferrari test drive, 9. gondola ride with a cicchetti tasting, 10. winery tour in chianti, more time to spend in italy, how much will a 10-day italy tour cost, getting around the best of italy in 10 days, what to pack for your ten-day trip to italy, the north – the best northern italy itinerary in 10 days, the south – the best 10 days in southern italy, the whole boot – the best 10-day italy tour.

• The Wine Region – A Fine Food and Wine 10-Day Italy Itinerary to Puglia 

The Centre – The Best of Italy in 10 Days

Want to create your own 10-day italy itinerary.

In reality, Italy offers wonderful experiences all year round. Choosing when is the best time to spend ten days in Italy can be tricky and largely depends on the type of trip you’re looking for. 

The busiest time to spend 10 days in Italy is from June to August; these months are also the hottest and most humid. As this is also the high season, you can expect the prices to be higher for hotels, transport and excursions. You will also have to book far in advance as places tend to book up during this season. 

If you’re looking to spend some time in the snowy mountains of the Dolomites, then the best time to do a 10-day Italy tour would be in the winter months. If you want a mix of everything, then April to June would be the perfect time to visit. Choosing to spend ten days in Italy during this period means the temperature will be comfortable to explore in and everywhere will be less crowded. 

If April to June doesn’t work for you, the other side of the summer (September to October) is another great time.

Take the Hassle Out of Planning Your Italy Trip!

Planning your trip can be a little overwhelming, especially when you want to make sure it’s perfect. Our trusted Local Designers use their travel planning expertise, local insight and destination knowledge to design extraordinary travel experiences, every time. Explore our Italy tours and connect with one of our Local Designers to get started! 

10 Highlights of Your 10-Day Italy Itinerary

Obviously, there are so many more than just 10 highlights. However, to save you from reading a novel of Italy highlights, we’ve narrowed it down to these ones! Here are the best things to do and the best places to see in Italy in 10 days:

It’s almost absolutely essential that you work in a small Tuscany itinerary in your 10 days. On this 10-day trip to Italy , you’ll spend a morning truffle hunting in the San Miniato hills followed by a wine tasting in a Chianti winery. Sounds pretty perfect, right? You will meet up with an expert truffle-gatherer in the Chianti area and his inseparable dog, who will lead you for a walk in the woods. You’ll then take these ‘white gold’ treasures back to a farmhouse for a tasting lunch.

If you’re looking to spend 10 days in Italy starting in Milan , then what better way to kick off your tour than by exploring the city on a historic tram? Riding a beautiful old tram, you will pass by the Sforza Castle, Brera district, the imposing Milan Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele and La Scala Opera House. You’ll finish this wonderful journey on Corso Buenos Aires, one of Milan’s main shopping avenues. It is the perfect place to pick up a few souvenirs of your 10-day Northern Italy itinerary!

This unique experience on this Northern Italy itinerary of 10 days finds you in a room where the scent of copper and heated milk fills your nostrils. Your local guide will explain exactly how the delicious iconic Parmigiano Reggiano is produced. You’ll spend the day learning about cattle raising and how it creates the specific flavours for which parmesan is known. For a tasty treat, your guide will open a wheel of cheese for you to taste. Remember, the crumblier the cheese, the more expensive its price.

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Y ou’ll spend an afternoon seeing Rome in a unique way – in a Vespa sidecar! You’ll take in the best sights of Rome over the few hours of scooting around, from the Trevi Fountain to the Spanish Steps and the Jewish Ghetto. You’ll also be taken to other neighbourhoods which will allow you to sense Rome’s authentic soul, going beyond usual tourist attractions. You’ll complete the tour in true Italian-style, at a gelato shop!

It’s possible to spend your entire  ten-day trip to Italy touring the famous Godfather film locations. However, if that is an offer you can refuse then you can just spend one day of your Sicily road trip of 10 days exploring these fabulous locations. The Godfather tour takes you to the villages of Savoca and Forza d’Agrò, unspoiled and traditional Sicilian hill towns. As you enter in Savoca, you will see the ‘Bar Vitelli’ with its splendid terrace; you may even wish to stop for a lemon granita!

Embark on a 10-day Italy itinerary to Cinque Terre and discover its unique, UNESCO-listed landscapes on foot! For anyone that loves hiking and discovering interesting places off the beaten track, this experience is perfect. While exploring the quaint villages and towns of the Cinque Terre, you’ll sample local dishes and enjoy fine Italian wines that capture the spirit of the south.

Is there a more Italian experience than wandering through groves of lemons, olives or grapes, then returning to a farmhouse overlooking the Amalfi Coast to sample some fine limoncello? We didn’t think so. If you include this experience on your 10-day Italy trip to the Amalfi Coast , you will be welcomed onto a farm that has been in the family for generations. You’ll be shown around the lemon grove and be treated to a fantastic lunch, finished with a tasting of their homemade limoncello.

You’ll spend the morning at the Museo Enzo Ferrari admiring the former workshop of Enzo Ferrari’s father and some of the most beautiful cars ever built. If that wasn’t enough, on this 10-day Italy itinerary of fine food and fast cars , you’ll drive a Ferrari 458 Italia around a circuit!

On this Rome, Florence and Venice tour , you’ll encounter these wonderfully iconic cities in some of the most magnificent ways, this experience included.  Floating along the Canal Grande, you’ll explore the jewels of Venice’s undiscovered corners, with its numerous Palazzi and noble families’ homes constructed in diverse architectural styles. You will make a pit stop in front of a typical “Bacaro” where the waiter will give you a bottle of Prosecco with some classic Venetian appetisers, known as Cicchetti.

One of the best ways to see Italy in 10 days is to make sure you include a hefty dose of food and wine experiences! On this slow tour of Siena , you’ll head out on a journey of enchanting places and breathtaking views. At a winery, you’ll learn about the production of wine and how these winemakers make sure it is environmentally sustainable. You’ll also enjoy a tasting of the region’s most characteristic varietal, Sangiovese. 

Want to See More 10-Day Italy Itinerary Ideas?

Make your Italy trip extraordinary by designing it with one of our Local Designers in Italy who will fill your trip with authentic, local experiences. Explore our gallery of highly customisable 10-day Italy itineraries and connect with one of our Local Designers to start designing your journey! 

Quite simply, Italy is your oyster! 

If you have the opportunity to spend more than 10 days in Italy, you can fill your time with even more unique, bucket-list-worthy experiences:

• Tour of ancient Pompeii
• Gelato-making class
• Private yacht around the island of Capri
• Attend an audience with the Pope
• Hike Mount Vesuvius
• Admire the Sistine Chapel roof
• Stroll the Appian Way
• Stay in a trulli
• Have a photo with the Leaning Tower of Pisa
• Marvel at the rooftops of Florence from Giotto’s Bell Tower
• And the list could go on and on

With more time, you could even incorporate another country or squeeze an Italy and Croatia itinerary into 10 days. If the Eiffel Tower calls, you could choose a France and Italy 10-day itinerary to see the best of both countries!

If your mind is boggling at the opportunities, take the stress away and let our Local Designers plan a trip to Italy for 10 days for you!

The answer to this question is very subjective as it largely depends on your travel style. The cost of your trip could be very different from the next person.

The following things will affect the cost of your ten days in Italy:

• Type of accommodation (star-rating of the hotel, Airbnb, guesthouse and more)
• Where you visit (the cities will be more expensive than the countryside)
• When you visit (the high season will be a more expensive time to spend 10 days in Italy)
• How you travel (travelling by train will cost less than private cars but more than buses)
• How many tours you do (you may want to explore some places on your own)
• The type of tour you do (small group tours will cost less than private tours)

If this is already beginning to give you a headache then don’t worry, we have a solution. Our Local Designers in Italy know this country like the back of their hand. They are experts when it comes to designing the perfect trip to suit your budget, travel style and interests.

Simply connect with one of our Local Designers in Italy and let them know exactly what you’re looking for when you travel Italy in 10 days. They will be able to digest this information and work with you to design the best 10-day Italy trip to suit you.

First Time Spending Ten Days in Italy?

Despite being a large country, travelling around Italy in 10 days isn’t difficult. If you are wondering what are the best transport methods to travel Italy in 10 days, then read on!

Luckily, Italy offers a number of options when it comes to your 10-day tour of Italy . You can choose to take public transportation for your entire trip, or you can catch high-speed trains. If you’re a little more confident on the roads, you can hire a car and drive straight into an Italy road trip for 10 days.

Feeling even more adventurous? Hire a Vespa and embark on the ultimate road trip in Italy for 10 days ! Whilst this is the more expensive option, it’s definitely a very exciting journey which allows you to stop when and where you wish. If you don’t want to drive yourself but want the freedom of travelling by car, you can travel with a private driver.  

The most important thing is to choose the transport mode which is best for you and those you are travelling with. Our Local Designers in Italy have experience in every type of trip and can easily help you organise a ten-day Italy itinerary. 

Packing for your Italy travel itinerary of 10 days can be difficult as it largely depends on the time of year you visit. Italy has four distinct seasons so it’s best to research what the weather will be like at the particular time of year you are visiting. As a general guide:

• Summer (June to August) – the weather will be very hot and humid
• Autumn (September to November) – the weather will be cooler and more comfortable
• Winter (December to February) – the weather can be cold and wet, with snow in the north. 
• Spring (March to May) – whilst you may have a little bit of rain, it will be warmer.

The best option is to pack layers. You will then be prepared for whatever weather you might encounter on your 10-day trip to Italy. 

If you are going to be moving around, then it is best to bring a carry-on suitcase or a large backpack. This way, when you are travelling by train and buses, you won’t have to carry a big suitcase around.

At the end of the day, the most important things to pack are your passports, travel documents, credit cards/cash and of course, an Italian travel adapter! We highly recommend that you have travel insurance for any mishaps that may occur.

Lastly, don’t forget your camera to catch all the amazing places you see in Italy in 10 days!

The Best Way to See Italy in 10 Days

Unearth Italy’s most stunning secrets on this 10-day Italy itinerary from Milan to Lake Como, Lake Garda and Venice. Big cities, beautiful lakes and magical canals await you on this 10-day Northern Italy itinerary.

Day 1: Arrive in Milan

Your 10-day trip in Italy begins in the fashion capital, Milan. You’ll spend the first day exploring on foot, cycling through the city to discover the eccentric buildings that are hidden in its streets and more. 

Day 2: Explore the Wonders of Milan

On your second day, your guide will escort you around the most popular landmarks in Milan including the Duomo di Milano Cathedral and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. You’ll pass by elegant shops, decadent restaurants and vintage bookstores, all of which you can explore afterwards. 

Day 3: Off to Lake Como

On the third day of your 10-day North Italy itinerary, you will travel by private car to the jaw-dropping Lake Como. An inspiration to artists for many centuries, Lake Como winds like a snake through the mountains and sparkles in the sunlight. 

Day 4: Lake Como by Boat

The best way to experience the beauty of Lake Como is to head out on a private boat tour. You will sail from Villa Gallarati Scotti and Villa Balbianello, a residence that has appeared in famous movies, to the lake’s charming villages and its many trails.

Day 5: Sirmione Calls!

With your driver, you’ll travel to the next destination on your Northern Italy itinerary of 10 days – Lake Garda. Sirmione is a resort town on the banks of northern Italy’s Lake Garda renowned for its thermal baths and medieval castle.

Day 6: Lake Garda by Boat

Today will be a chance to see Sirmione from a different perspective on a private boat tour of Lake Garda. You will spend the day admiring the view of Maria Callas house, Grotte di Catullo and Boiola thermal spring from the water. You’ll also stop to visit Villa Borghese.

Day 7: Travel to Venice via the Romantic City of Verona

En route to the final destination of your 10-day tour of Italy, you’ll stop to soak up the romance of the city of Verona. The city is said to have been the setting for William Shakespeare’s tragic love story of Romeo and Juliet. Verona is home to splendid palaces, squares and priceless treasures of art; it rivals others as Italy’s most beautiful city. 

Day 8: Bacaro Experience & Gondola Ride on Venice’s Canals

After a morning tour of Venice’s iconic landmarks including Saint Mark’s Square, you’ll head off to taste some local favourites; Cicchetti and a spritz with Aperol. This wonderful food experience will be completed by a memorable gondola cruise down Venice’s Canal Grande!

Day 9: Glass Making Tour in Murano

Venice is a city made up of over 100 islands. Today, with your water chauffeur, you’ll head to the island of Murano, famous for its glassmaking industry. You will have the opportunity to visit a factory for an exclusive demonstration of glass making. 

Day 10: Goodbye Italy!

Today, your Italy road trip itinerary of 10 days comes to an end. You’ll be chauffeured to the airport when you are ready. 

Want to Spend 10 Days in Northern Italy?

See what else is included in this 10-day Italy itinerary to the north. Our in-destination Local Designers at Designer Journeys use their unique local insight and expert knowledge to design, build and deliver extraordinary travel experiences just like this one! Tap the button to check it out. 

From Rome to Palermo, this 10-day tour of Italy is about finding the best of the south. Each city you encounter, you’ll take in the sights, admire the rich Italian architecture and the even richer local life. 

Day 1: The Best Southern Italy Itinerary of 10 Days Begins!

Beginning in the capital city of Italy, you’ll stay close to the Vatican City, the smallest country in the world. Just a stone’s throw from the heart of the Catholic world, you’ll spend your first day getting acquainted with the city and its artistic riches.

Day 2: Rome’s Iconic Sights & The Colosseum

Today, you’ll have the opportunity to tick off Rome’s bucket-list-worthy sights one by one. Beginning with Piazza Navona and the famed Trevi Fountain, you’ll visit the Pantheon and the Colosseum, the largest amphitheatre ever built.

Day 3: Explore the Vatican & Make Pizza!

Your day will begin with a guided tour of the Vatican Museums and the magnificent Sistine Chapel. Don’t forget to look up to see the beautiful ceiling painted by Michelangelo – a masterpiece of High Renaissance art. Instead of dining in one of Rome’s trattorias, you’ll learn the invaluable skill of pizza making, roman-style! 

Day 4: Two Ancient Roman Cities – Pompeii & Ercolano

Today, you’ll explore the ancient city of Pompeii which was buried by a 30-foot ash cloud when Mount Vesuvius erupted. After a guided tour of the city, you’ll head to the well-preserved fishing town of Ercolano.

Day 5: Day Trip to the Island of Capri

It would be hard to complete a 10-day Southern Italy itinerary without the addition of a trip to the stunning island of Capri. Reaching the island by boat, you’ll spend the day wandering through the small towns with their picturesque landscapes, breathtaking views and rich culture.

Day 6: Fly to Sicily

In the centre of the Mediterranean sea, Sicily is an island that oozes beauty and grandeur. Today, you’ll arrive in the historical centre of Syracuse with a private guide where you’ll be staying. 

Day 7: Historical Villages and Towns in Sicily 

Next up on your 10 days in Southern Italy, you’ll visit the beautiful medieval town of Taormina, overlooking the sea with its incredible Greek theatre. You’ll walk to the hilltop village of Castelmola and take in the magnificent views over the Ionian Coast. You’ll then head back down to the narrow streets of Taormina or go for a swim in the Isola Bella Natural Reserve.

Day 8: Journey to Palermo

After travelling across Sicily by bus, you’ll arrive in the cultural capital of Palermo. You’ll have the day to wander its vibrant market streets and sample some delicious Sicilian cuisine in the evening.

Day 9: Free Day to Explore Palermo

On the penultimate day of your 10 days in Southern Italy, you’ll get the chance to explore Palermo at your own pace. You can visit the nearby town of Monreale and its stunning cathedral or one of the many beaches nearby. 

Day 10: End of Your Trip!

Today, your 10-day South Italy itinerary comes to an end as you are chauffeured to the airport by your driver. 

Intrigued by 10 Days in Southern Italy?

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Travel around Italy in 10 days and experience the most iconic sights of the best Italian art cities together with the hidden corners, bars and restaurants that only locals know. Beginning on the Amalfi Coast, you’ll travel to Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan on this wonderful 10-day Italy tour!

Day 1: The Amalfi Coast

You’ll begin your trip by settling into one of the most beautiful Amalfi Coast towns, Maiori, a popular getaway since Roman times. Boasting the largest stretch of unbroken beach on the Amalfi Coast, Maiori is the perfect place to begin your ten days in Italy. 

Day 2: The Complete Amalfi Experience

Driving the winding road that hugs the stunning Amalfi Coast, you’ll spend the day visiting picturesque villages. Once known as the Strada Statale 163, the road was originally built by the Romans. It clings to the coastline and showcases jaw-dropping views down to the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Day 3: Free Day to Explore Maiori

The entire day will be free for you to explore one of the Amalfi Coast’s most beloved towns. Many people head to its beautiful beach or spend the day wandering around its many medieval churches. Alternatively, you could explore one of the other towns on the Amalfi Coast.

Day 4: Onwards to Rome

You’ll leave Naples behind and make the journey by train to Rome. Once settled in, you’ll board a snappy Ape Calessino, the “cousin” of the Vespa, and head off to explore the Eternal City’s most iconic sights.

Day 5: Imperial Rome & Trastevere Food Tour

It’s hard to imagine spending ten days in Italy without spending one of those days on a food tour. After exploring Imperial Rome including the Colosseum, you’ll head out on a guided tour of the lively Trastevere area.

Day 6: Catch the Train to Florence

The sixth day of your trip will take you to Florence, the cradle of Renaissance art. You’ll spend the day visiting the imposing Piazza del Duomo, the Square of the Dome and the Florence Cathedral, before heading to the quieter streets of the Santa Croce neighbourhood. This is where Michelangelo both lived and was buried.

Day 7: Tuscany Tour by Vespa!

Experience the beautiful Tuscan countryside a little differently today – on the back of a nippy Italian Vespa! You’ll spend the day riding along the scenic country roads admiring the sights, smells and sounds of the Chianti region, stopping at wineries for wine tastings. 

Day 8: To the City That Floats on Water

You’ll arrive in Venice by train and head off with your guide for a stroll around the city’s main highlights. Of course, in true Venetian-style, you’ll finish your stroll with a romantic gondola ride down the Canal Grande!

Day 9: Venice to Milan

Milan, the fashion capital of Italy, will be your next destination. You’ll encounter its iconic sights in a unique way today – on the historical tram No1. It will take you from the Barre Quarter to the Milan Cathedral, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele and La Scala Theatre. You’ll end the tour with an aperitif at a rooftop bar overlooking the beautiful Milan Cathedral.

Day 10: It Comes to an End

Your trip comes to an end as your driver takes you to the airport. 

Whistle-Stop Tour of Italy, Anyone?

Yes, please! This itinerary covers the highlights of Italy, however, because it is designed by one of our trusted Local Designers, it is filled with authentic local experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. Tap the button to see the itinerary in full!

The Wine Region – A Fine Food and Wine 10-Day Italy Itinerary to Puglia  

This itinerary is all about indulging in the finest food and wine as you travel around Italy in 10 days. Hugging the coast and the less-explored regions of Italy, you’ll witness the best that the Amalfi Coast and Puglia have to offer. 

Day 1: Explore Vietri sul Mare

You’ll spend your first day exploring the charming southern Italian town of Vietri sul Mare, known as the ceramics capital of the Campania region. A stroll through its historic streets lined with shops full of decorative tiles is the perfect way to begin your Italy trip. 

Day 2: Wine Tasting & Cellar Tour

Wine, wine and more wine is exactly what your Italy tour should revolve around. You’ll begin the day with a tasting of wonderful local wines before sitting down to a delicious lunch. Later on, with a full belly, you’ll head to the quintessential Mediterranean fishing village of Cetera to explore. 

Day 3: Limoncello Tour & Pompeii

Lemons and ancient cities will be the highlights of your day as you head to a local lemon farm to learn how the famous Italian liqueur, limoncello, is made. From there, you’ll head to the buried city of Pompeii with your local guide. 

Day 4: Ancient Greek Cities & Buffalo Mozzarella Farms

Another day of ancient history and delicious Italian produce begins as you travel to the ancient Greek city of Paestum. It is an archaeological site dating back 2,500 years known for its remarkably-preserved Doric Templates. The rest of the day will be spent at the famous Vannulo Buffalo Mozzarella Farm to learn all about this cheese and, of course, taste it.

Day 5: Wine Tasting Tour of Puglia

Italy’s title as the largest producer of wine in the world is owed much to the region of Puglia. Here, viticulture is deep-rooted in local traditions and the best way to experience Puglian wine is to head to a winery.

Day 6: Explore a Cave Winery

You will sit back and relax as you travel to Cantine del Notaio Wine Estate, where the wine cellars are located in natural caves dug out of volcanic tuff. These unique cellars guarantee exceptional conditions for refining the wine you’ll taste after your cellar tour. 

Day 7: A Day of Unique Puglian Architecture

You’ll spend the day exploring the unique cave dwellings of Sassi Di Matera and Alberobello, where you’ll visit the Trulli, remarkable cone-shaped houses prevalent in this region. At the end of the day, you’ll arrive in the charming city of Lecce. 

Day 8: Pasta Making Experience

Today, you’ll learn how to make orecchiette pasta before sitting down to lunch to enjoy your creation. You’ll later return to Lecce where you’ll head out on a walking tour of the town often referred to as the ‘Florence of the South’.

Day 9: Manduria Wine Region Tour

To begin the day, you’ll head to the Manduria wine region to visit a local wine estate, explore the farm and taste some of the famous wines of the area. The rest of the day will be free for you to spend wandering the narrow golden streets and enjoying a long lunch in Lecce.

Day 10: Goodbye Italy

Your fine food and wine tour of Italy will come to an end today.

Is Puglia Calling Your Name?

Planning your Italy trip can be a little overwhelming, especially when you want to make sure it’s perfect. Our trusted Local Designers use their travel planning expertise, local insight and destination knowledge to design extraordinary travel experiences, every time. Tap the button below to see this trip in full and to customise it to your taste with one of our Local Designers!

Over ten days, you’ll travel from the Amalfi Coast through central Italy to the capital city of Rome. Along the way, you’ll explore some of the most spectacular locations that this region has to offer. The rich Tuscan countryside, the stunning Amalfi Coast and more awaits you!

Day 1: Explore Pompeii & Onwards to Positano

En route to your hotel in Positano, you’ll stop for a guided tour of the ancient city of Pompeii. In 79 AD, the city was buried under 30 feet of ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted.

Day 2: The Famous Route 163 Drive

You’ll spend the day driving along ‘Route 163′, a masterpiece of human engineering that is carved into the cliffside along the Amalfi Coast. You’ll stop at various points along the way, including a stop to taste two of the region’s typical local products.

Day 3: Boat Trip to Capri Island 

Famous for its designer shopping, anchored yachts and Michelin-starred seafood restaurants, you’ll head to the island of Capri. Beginning with a seafood lunch on arrival, you’ll then spend the rest of the day exploring this island by Vespa!

Day 4: Naples to Tuscany

It’s almost impossible to visit Italy and not squeeze in a Tuscany itinerary in 10 days. Today, you’ll head deep into the Tuscan countryside to a spa and winery set within the rolling vineyards. In the afternoon, you’ll embark on a unique journey through Tuscan villages on an Ape Tuk Tuk. This vehicle used by locals for over 60 years to navigate the narrow streets of the ancient towns.

Day 5: Hot Air Balloon over Tuscany

Wake up early to experience a hot air balloon ride over the scenic Tuscan countryside; it will be an experience like no other. After, your day will only get better as you spend the morning hunting truffles with a local guide followed by a Chianti wine tour!

Day 6: Explore Florence

Beginning in Repubblica square, the heart of the city, you’ll embark on a walking city tour of Florence with a local guide. You’ll visit the Accademia Gallery with the famous Michelangelo’s masterpiece, The David, and more before enjoying a perfume-making experience in the afternoon.

Day 7: Onwards to Rome via Civita di Bagnoregio & Michelin Dining

Leaving the countryside, you’ll head to Rome, stopping to visit the fascinating hill town of Civita di Bagnoregio en route. You’ll then tour the major monuments of Baroque Rome before heading to a Michelin guide restaurant with an astonishing view of the Colosseum for dinner. 

Day 8: Vatican City Tour

The highlight of your day today will be when you attend a Pope audience. You’ll spend the day in Vatican City, the world’s smallest country and the centre of the Catholic world. You’ll visit the impressive St. Peter’s Square and Basilica as well as the Vatican Museums, Raffaello’s rooms and the Sistine Chapel.

Day 9: Roman Cooking Class!

You’ll start the day like a true local as you embark on a market tour of Rome’s famous Esquilino market. It will be followed by a cooking class where you will learn how to cook the best Italian food. In the afternoon, you’ll lay eyes on the mighty Colosseum and the Roman Forum. 

Day 10: Last Day in Italy

Depending on your flight time, you may have some free time to explore before your driver escorts you to the airport. 

Say Yes to Central Italy!

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With our team of trusted, in-destination Local Designers in Italy , you can design your dream trip. No matter how you want to spend your ten days in Italy, our Local Designers will design a trip that suits your budget and travel style. In no time, you can be exploring Tuscany on the back of a Vespa, sailing around the island of Capri or gazing up at the roof of the Sistine Chapel!

Let Designer Journeys Plan Your Dream Italy Trip!

Explore our range of fully customisable   10-day Italy tours today or design your own Italy trip from scratch with the help of one of our Local Designers.  Using their local insight, expert knowledge and travel planning skills, our trusted Local Designers will be able to build a trip filled with experiences you won’t find anywhere else! Tap the button below to get started. 

Grace Homer

At my desk, you'll find me tapping out inspiring adventures, finessing incredible trips designed by Local Designers and focussing on all things content. Having lived in Southeast Asia between Vietnam and Bali for three years, I'm now keeping toasty with a cuppa in a little English town planning future adventures for which I have constant inspiration. Offline, there's nothing I enjoy more than long cycle rides, fueling the foodie in me and seeking out new spots - preferably all at the same time. Find me on LinkedIn or Instagram and keep an eye out for travel inspiration here!

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Small Private Tours Of Italy Off The Beaten Path For Over 50 & Active Seniors

10 day tour of italy italy small group tour of italian hidden gems.

"A Magical Escape Back To A Simpler Time" Italy Off The Beaten Path: 10 Day Tour Of Italy

Explore World-Famous Roman & Medieval Hill Town Gems

The heart of Italy is known for having many of the best undiscovered places in Italy. Imagine a place with stunning natural beauty, fabulous ancient towns, sparkling waterfalls, Roman aqueducts, olive groves, picturesque Italian vineyards, numerous rivers, and placid lakes. It is a lush scenic area that is well-known to Italians as having some of the most beautiful places of Italy.

You will explore iconic hidden hilltown gems -- originally built for defensive purposes -- that have some of the best-preserved fortifications, walls, and Roman gates in all of Europe.  

Each hilltop town is different.  Each has a distinct geography. Many Italian hilltop villages and towns were built during the age of the Etruscans over 2,500 years ago. They were reconstructed during Roman times, and then rebuilt again in medieval times.

During your 10 day tour of Italy, you'll see some of the best of non-touristy Italy off the beaten path. You’ll visit unseen, little-known towns in some of the best secret spots in Italy.

Our escorted Italian small group tours provide you a magical opportunity to travel back in time, off the beaten path Italy. You'll visit palaces, historic sites, and various out-of-the-way off the beaten track places that few foreigners ever find on their own, all while enjoying amazing wine and Italian food.

There will be plenty of leisure time to do things on your own so you can fully enjoy your relaxing Italy vacation.

Typical Italian Itinerary Italy Small Group Tour Of Italian Hidden Gems

A tour of italy off the beaten path: umbria, tuscany, florence and siena for 10 days / 9 nights.

Sunday Day 1 10 Day Italy Small Group Tour Arrive In Italy And Travel To Enchanting Spello 

Saturday travel to italy to start your italy small group tour  .

Arrive in Rome at Fiumicino airport. You will be met by an Italian/English-speaking chauffeur who will whisk you away by private car for the start of your spectacular Italian small group tour in the heart of Italy.

Experience your first authentic Italian lunch at a restaurant that features an ancient 14th century interior and is known for fresh seasonal food specialties such as tartufo mushrooms, artichokes, wild boar, great local wines and more. 

Spend the remainder of your afternoon relaxing at your 4-star Italian hotel, lounging by the pool, and exploring the intriguing walled Roman town of Spello. We will start our evening early with an informal get-together and a brief local orientation while sampling Italian wine and appetizers in a 17th century Italian palazzo.

Included: Private driver from Rome Airport, lunch and beverages, and a light dinner with drinks and heavy appetizers.

Monday Day 2 10 Day Italy Small Group Tour Spello, Collepino & Assisi

After breakfast overlooking the beautiful rolling countryside, you will enjoy a short walking tour of Spello. You visit Spello’s magnificent Roman Gate, one of few left in all of Italy. We will then visit the nearby medieval village of Collepino and stop by a cozy coffee bar for a quick cappuccino coffee. 

Next comes a lovely drive over the mountain -- Mount Subasio – and a special stop just outside Assisi. There we will have a rustic lunch at a family-owned restaurant that specializes in delicious traditional Umbrian food cooked over wood-fired grills. ​

After lunch, we’ll visit world-famous Assisi. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Centre, Assisi was founded over 2,500 years ago and is the home of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of Italy. St. Francis died almost 800 years ago but forever left his mark upon this town and the entire Region of Umbria.

After an informative guided walking tour of Assisi, you will have ample time to explore the town, shop, or people watch over an espresso or a glass of wine.

We will return to Spello where you’ll have dinner on your own -- at our expense -- at one of our several favorite local restaurants.

Included: All meals, coffee, tea, sparkling water, and local Italian wine, if desired.

Tuesday Day 3 10 Day Italy Small Group Tour Spoleto With Wine Tasting And Cellar Tour

After a quiet breakfast at your hotel, we will take a short drive to Spoleto. This unforgettable town has occupied a strategic geographical position since the 5th century B.C. Surrounded by rugged mountains, Spoleto was unsuccessfully attacked by Hannibal of Carthage in 217 B.C.

Today, you’ll be taken on an Italian small group tour conducted by one of our favorite tour guides of Spoleto and its magnificent 14th century castle. At the highest point of the town, you will see a 1st century Roman villa and visit the Archeological Museum and its 2,000-year-old Roman amphitheater. All of these places have wonderful views of the mountains and the 13th century aqueduct that towers high over Spoleto. 

We will have lunch at a local restaurant that specializes in homemade pasta, pork specialties and steak. Later in the afternoon, we will take a drive through the pastoral countryside dotted with vineyards and olive groves. 

We will visit one of the oldest wineries in Umbria and you’ll take a wine tasting tour of their great wines. We will sample their highly-regarded red and white wines along with their superb locally-made prosciutto, cheeses and honey. 

When we return to Spello for the evening, you can relax by your hotel pool, go to an eye-catching wine bar, or if you still are hungry after this day, you can have dinner on your own -- at our expense --  at one of several recommended restaurants.

Included: All meals, coffee, tea, sparkling water, wine tasting and local Italian wine, if desired.

Wednesday Day 4 10 Day Italy Small Group Tour Perugia: An Ancient Etruscan Town

After breakfast we will drive to the ancient walled town of Perugia, which was one of the main ancient Etruscan cities in Italy. Perugia became a wealthy medieval town and the stunning architecture reflects a medieval splendor. During the morning, a tour guide will escort you on an exclusive Italian Small Group Tour of this wonderful hilltop town.

You will have lunch at a restaurant that is renowned for preparing traditional Umbrian cuisine and its marvelous landscape views. After lunch, you will have time to explore around Perugia, do some shopping, and if you like, visit an impressive art museum or explore Perugia’s highly regarded archeological museum. 

As we leave Perugia, we will make a short stop at an area off the beaten path outside of town that has a number of fascinating Etruscan chamber tombs. If interested, you can tour some of the remarkably large tombs that display funerary urns and artifacts discovered over many centuries during local excavations.

We’ll then return to Spello and enjoy our evening meal at an authentic quaint Italian osteria owned by good friends.

​Included: All meals, coffee, tea, sparkling water, wine tasting and local Italian wine, if desired.

Thursday Day 5 10 Day Italy Small Group Tour Civita di Bagnoregio & Orvieto

Our day starts early with a drive to one of the best Italian hidden gems: Civita di Bagnoregio. This hill town is distinguished by its strategic position on top of a plateau of volcanic rock overlooking a massive valley. The vantage from the summit gives you the illusion that you have travelled back in time to another world.

The curiously captivating architecture spans a period of over 2,500 years. There are no modern roads. The town is accessible only by a walking down a long pedestrian bridge where mules used to transport olives and other goods. You will have ample time to tour and explore this fascinating town on your own for the rest of the morning.

​We will then drive to Orvieto for lunch at a traditional family-owned restaurant.

Orvieto rises majestically above rock cliffs and is protected by an extensive system of defensive walls. Here a knowledgeable local guide will give us an escorted Italian small group tour around town. We will explore the striking monumental cathedral, the extensive medieval underground tunneling system, and other architectural wonders.

You will have plenty time to stroll through this beautiful place on your own and to shop for ceramics, clothing and other artisan goods at Orvieto’s well-stocked shops.

We will return to Spello where we’ll have dinner at a popular and colorful pizzeria known for its vast selection of tasty wood fired pizzas.

Friday Day 6 10 Day Italy Small Group Tour Gubbio & Private Dinner At A 17th Century Storybook Palazzo

Today we’ll take a drive through the beautiful Italian countryside and through the mountains to reach the memorable Roman and medieval town of Gubbio.

This town is one of the most remarkably unique places in Italy to visit  and is one of the best hilltop villages in Italy off the beaten path. Gubbio is a favorite destination among Italians. It is picturesque and especially pretty when the red and white geraniums are in bloom along the road that leads to town. Perched halfway up Mount Ingino, Gubbio commands some memorable views.

We will take a guided tour in Gubbio using one of our favorite tour guides. After our short Italian small group tour, you can ramble around town on your own. You can capture some great selfies, pop into several museums, purchase some artwork or ceramics, take a cable car up Mount Ingino high above Gubbio for some sweeping vistas of the Apennine Mountains, and grab an informal lunch on your own at our expense.

Return to Spello to enjoy your swimming pool, have some afternoon private time, and finish packing. We’ll have a celebration with cocktails and an early private dinner arranged just for you, specially prepared by a highly regarded local Italian chef.

Saturday Day 7 10 Day Italy Small Group Tour Trip To Tuscany For Tour Of Florence And Siena

We’re off today to see some of the most popular places in Italy. During the last few days of your Italian small group tour, you’ll see the incredible Tuscan towns of Florence and Siena.

Florence was once one of the wealthiest and most influential cities in the world. Today it is a major artistic, cultural, commercial, political and financial center. It is known for its extraordinary Renaissance architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Forbes ranked Florence as the most beautiful city in the world in 2010.

We’ll make the short trip to Florence by train to enjoy the beautiful Italian countryside as we depart Umbria and arrive in Tuscany for our Florence adventure.

When we arrive, we will check-in to your 4-star Italian hotel located in the heart of Florence. We’ll grab a light lunch at a restaurant that specializes in Tuscan cuisine including homemade pici pasta, Tuscan meats, various tomato or bean soups, great Tuscan red and white wines, and more.

After lunch, we’ll take a guided walking tour conducted by a knowledgeable local tour guide to get oriented to Florence.

Florence will be a marked change from Umbria since it is not a hilltop town. Instead the historic center is quite flat. It is also a great place to mingle, explore and walk since vehicle traffic is restricted for local residents, taxis and hotel guests.

After your walking tour you can continue to explore the labyrinth of ancient Florentine streets while admiring the exquisite renaissance architecture. You can stop to taste some creamy Italian artisan gelato; admire numerous quaint jewelry shops which line the oldest bridge in Florence, the famous Ponte Vecchio; walk along the Arno River; do some shopping at myriad small shops, or grab a cocktail or glass of wine from one of the many wine bars in Florence. There are lots of different things to do in Florence that we can recommend.

You’ll will have dinner tonight at one of our favorite restaurants. It is tucked away in a corner of an ancient piazza. The restaurant serves award winning authentic Tuscan foods. The fresh pasta and bread are prepared daily and made on-site. All dishes are based on the best seasonal ingredients and the menu changes with the season. For a special treat, you can also sample their deep green Tuscan olive oil which is produced on the restaurant owners’ estate outside of Florence. If you still have energy, you can go back to the sky terrace at your hotel to have a nightcap and enjoy a nighttime view of Florence.

Included: Transportation by train from Umbria to Florence, guided tour of Florence, all meals, coffee, tea, sparkling water, and local Italian wine (if desired) and lodging in Florence.

Sunday Day 8 10 Day Italy Small Group Tour Tour Of Florence - Continued

Today, we’ll visit the Galleria dell’Accademia, one of Italy’s most popular museums. This well-known museum features Michelangelo’s colossal statue of David.

In addition to the David, there are six large unfinished marble statues that line the gallery. Many people grow quiet when they enter and stare in awe. The figures are so lifelike that they seem frozen in time.

After our experience seeing the David we will walk five minutes to the nearby Mercato Centrale. This 150-year old open-air marketplace features artisan food shops that cater to local residents and restaurants.

As part of your Italian small group tour you will be able to peruse the many interesting shops. They offer a vast selection local produce: cheeses, meats, salami’s, wine, liquors, soft drinks, and much more. We’ll get a whiff of the wonderful scents of all kinds of products and especially prosciutto hams with the local favorite called “Cinta Senese” that is prized throughout Italy. It is a lot of fun to sample and discover what you like best.

We will then have lunch at one of the authentic casual restaurants inside the market or from one of the many restaurants located outside, depending on your preference.

After lunch, we will go up to a square on a promontory high above Florence – the famous Piazzale Michelangelo. From here you can see an incredible panoramic view of all of Florence. You’ll see the giant basilica of Santa Maria del Fiore which from this vantage appears to be small. You see the historic wall surrounding parts of Florence and arc of the Arno River. The square is a great place to take some fine photos.

We’ll then return to the center of old Florence. You’ll have some time to do things on your own before dinner. You can go back to relax at your hotel, continue shopping, or walk around Florence and explore the narrow streets.

Florence is an international city that offers you some wonderful international dinner options. We’ll recommend several restaurants where you can find Indian, Turkish, Thai, or Japanese cuisine.

Or, you can select from one of our many favorite Italian restaurants. Perhaps tonight is the night to try an authentic Florentine beefsteak -- Bistecca alla Fiorentina -- or select from numerous other tasty Tuscan specialties.

Included: Museum tickets, transportation within the city center, and all meals, coffee, tea, sparkling water, and local Italian wine, if desired. 

Monday Day 9 10 Day Italy Small Group Tour Tour In Siena

After breakfast we’ll take you on a short public bus ride for your own Italian small group tour to one of the most beautiful cities in Italy – Siena.

Siena was first settled by the Etruscans around 2,500 years ago. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was one of the most important cities in medieval Europe. Siena is famous for its food, art, museums and its medieval landscape. It also has one of the oldest universities in the world.

When you arrive in Siena, you will definitely feel like you have gone back in time.

You’ll see the gigantic Piazza del Campo which is regarded as one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares. It is renowned for its architecture and beauty and is lined with red brick buildings. Siena is also the site of a famous horse-race held twice each summer – the Palio of Siena.

After walking around a bit and having time to admire the piazza, we’ll have an early lunch at a Tuscan restaurant and pizzeria on the main square. You can do some people watching while enjoying a view of the piazza and all of its architectural glory.

After lunch we will stop at the Palazzo Pubblico across the piazza. The palace is a grand work of architecture in itself, with nearly every interior room frescoed. You can climb the stairs in the medieval tower next door to get a commanding view of Siena.

Siena is also a wonderful shopping town. We’ll walk around the medieval road that surrounds the piazza and is lined by all kinds of intriguing shops.

We’ll then visit the main duomo or cathedral located just a couple of blocks away. The duomo was completed in the 14th century and is a masterpiece of Italian Romanesque-Gothic architecture. It has an imposing zebra-like facade featuring alternating white and black marble.

You’ll have plenty of time to explore the town, do some shopping, or grab another gelato. Late in the afternoon we will take the bus back to Florence. There you can freshen up at your hotel.

We’ll then have a fond farewell celebration with cocktails, wine and a Tuscan dinner. There you can talk about the wonders of Italy and perhaps even start dreaming of a future return trip!

Included: Transportation to Siena and all meals with coffee, tea, sparkling water, and local Italian wine, if desired.

Tuesday Day 10 10 Day Italy Small Group Tour Depart For Florence Airport Or Rome Airport

On the final morning of your 10 day tour of Italy, you will be picked up at your hotel to take you to the Florence airport for your flight back home. Instead, if you are flying out of Rome, we will escort you to the Florence train station and guide you to the high-speed train which will take you to Rome and Fiumicino Airport.

Transportation to Florence Airport or Rome Airport and breakfast are included.

Please Note: This schedule may change subject to weather and availability.

What’s Included Italy Small Group Tour Of Italian Hidden Gems

10 Day Tour of Italy: For 10 Days / 9 Nights 

All-Inclusive In Italy Tour

Ground transportation from Rome airport upon arrival. Upon departure, transportation to Florence Airport Or Train Tickets from Florence to Rome airport if departing from Rome. Bus transportation to and from Siena to Florence

9 nights lodging in two Italian 4-star hotels in Central Italy regions of Umbria and Tuscany

Transportation for each day of the tour as needed

All breakfasts, lunches and dinners with Italian wine, if desired

Private dinner prepared by an Italian chef

Museum tickets

Cocktail party featuring heavy appetizers at a private storybook palazzo

Wine tastings will take place at cozy wine bars in Italian wine country. The tastings will also include tours of wine cellars and vineyards.

Professional Italian tour guide available during portions of the tour

Numerous opportunities to shop

Optional time for biking, walking, hiking, trekking, cycling, e-biking or e bike

Additional private time to do things together or on your own

What's Not Included Italy Small Group Tour Of Italian Hidden Gems

Flights to and from Italy

Travel Insurance

Passport Fees

Accommodations

We book our guests at small boutique hotels that are often family-owned. Many are located in historic properties, some of which are centuries old. You will stay at Italian 4-star hotels that are charming and authentic, featuring modern amenities including: wi-fi, air conditioning and a private in-suite bathroom. Many guests have remarked that our hotels are more quaint and memorable than chain hotels in North America.

16 Guest Small Group & Private Adventures

Italy's Great Cities

ITALY'S BEST FIRST TIME TOUR   • ALL DEPARTURES SMALL GROUPS UP TO 16 GUESTS •

10 Days/9 Nights: 2 Nights in Venice, 2 Nights in Florence, 2 Nights in Cortona in the Tuscan Countryside and 3 Nights in Rome AUTHENTIC ITALY IN OUR TRUE SMALL GROUP TOUR Handpicked Hotels. No Big Buses. No Long Lines.  

The Original 10 Day Italian Adventure featuring Venice, Florence, 2 Days in the Tuscan Countryside and a special finalé in Rome —  see our reviews on TripAdvisor.  

Meet Italy's Great Cities with 2 Beautiful Days in the Tuscan Countryside: Roof-top Experiences. Mornings with Guides.

The Now Journey itinerary is unique: Small Group of Like-Minded Travelers. Where-You-Want-To-Be Hotels. No Big Buses. Surprises like Rooftop events along the way. No Upselling. No other major tour company offers this experience. Compare and find out! With Now Journey, we handle everything for you. You just enjoy!

★ Now Journey Exclusives Included. Never more than 16 Guests:

• Meet & Greet Transfer on our Water Taxi direct to our hotel on San Marco, whenever you arrive • Sightseeing Tours and Admissions, On-Tour Transfers, Gondola in Venice •  PRIVILEGED ACCESS : Skip-the-Long-Line Admissions with special access • Luggage Portage included for Deluxe, Classic and Lotus • No annoying Up-Selling while on tour: this is important! • No Big Buses or Groups, No Long Lines • Local English-Speaking Italian Expert Guides and Now Journey Tour Captain •  LAUNDRY SERVICE: Journey's Complimentary Mid-Tour Laundry Service • Fast Train in style Venice to Florence. Comfy micro-coach/Mercedes Vans to Rome • SMALL GROUP BENEFITS:  Small group up to 16 guests of like-minded travelers •  No Hidden Costs : Fees, taxes and gratuities excluding the Tour Captain •  Hand-Picked hotels: Deluxe 4+ to 5 Star Hotels featuring a full, hot breakfast with coffee, espresso coffees, juice as well as table service. Classic 3 to 4 Star Hotels feature a light, continental breakfast. Lotus featuring upper category, luxury suites. •  UNIQUE IN THE INDUSTRY DINING: Unlimited Premium Beverages :

• Deluxe/Lotus: 15 Meals: 9 Breakfasts, 5 Journey Style Dinner Events (5 dinners + 2 Apericene), 1 Lunch/Wine Tasting.

"Effortless. Serene. I'll travel no other way." —  Click to Read TripAdvisor Guest Reviews

• Highly recommended as an amazing way to indulge in Italy! —  Sandra S.
• We did not have to think about logistics and Now Journey had every detail covered. —  John C.

The Daily Itinerary

Our complete day-by-day deluxe itinerary through italy's great cities, perfectly-balanced with most sightseeing in the mornings..

Explore Venice, Florence, Tuscan countryside, and Rome in our Deluxe (itinerary presented below) or Classic package. Upgrade Classic to include 5 Total Dinners for $390/person. Add the Amalfi Coast for an extended experience.

Chapter 1: Welcome to Venice

La Serenissima: Venice: The Most Serene —  2 Days, 2 Nights

Why Now Journey for Italy's Great Cities? Venice: Experience the rooftops of Venice at sunset, the leaning tower of Venice, and amazing cuisine. Oh! And don't forget the 'cellos!

DAY 1: We begin in Glorious Venice!

One of Now Journey's most popular small group adventures begins upon arrival to Marco Polo Airport in Venice with your included airport Meet & Greet and Arrival Transfer. Now Journey's approach to touring Italy is unique: we combine local expert Italian Guides with our Now Journey Tour Captains serving as your host for the perfect balance of activity and leisure time so you can truly soak up all that is Italy.

Included Today: Discovery Walk, Reception and Dinner on beautiful San Marco Island.

Amazing Venice

Afterward, enjoy some time at leisure to soak up Venice before meeting tonight for a special 'Welcome to Venice' evening from one of our exclusive perspectives.

Venice, Italy, is a city that captivates with its unparalleled beauty and mystique. Floating gracefully on a network of canals, the cityscape unfolds like a mesmerizing tapestry, adorned with elegant bridges, ornate palaces, and centuries-old buildings that seem to rise from the water. As the sun sets, Venice's enchanting labyrinth of narrow alleys and historic squares takes on an ethereal quality, casting shadows that whisper tales of a bygone era, leaving visitors spellbound by the timeless allure and enigmatic charm of this unique aquatic city.

Our welcome dinner features cuisine from several regions throughout Italy including the Veneto, Lazio and Campania paired with delicious regional wines. Journey's approach to dining is unique in the travel world. We visit local and family-owned restaurants where you choose your dinner from the restaurant menu. We include premium beverages (wine, beer, cocktails, soft drinks).

ABOUT ITALIAN CUISINE Journey Cuisine is authentically Italian: Family-owned restaurants farm to table. Journey’s approach to dining is unique in the travel world (just like the regions of Italy). We include Premium Beverages (wine, soda and cocktails) and you choose your dinner from the menu. The Italian chefs and families are proud of their delicious dishes which hail from each of the regions in which Journey travels. From Lombardia and beautiful Lake Como to the Veneto region with Venice all the way through to the Amalfi Coast and Campania, you will enjoy a variety of dishes featuring pasta, seafood combined plates, vegetable inspired contorni and of course Tuscan inspired dishes. While in Italy we will enjoy locally grown produce where the concept of  nostrale , or home-grown, is so evident.

Our Deluxe Hotels Collection: Hotel Monaco & Grand Canal, and Hotel Saturnia & International Our Deluxe Package includes these 4 Star and 5 Star properties with most hotels featuring a Standard or similar category room —  inquire if you'd like to upgrade for a larger room and/or category with a specific view (where available). Hotel room assignments are made closer to tour departure. Our Classic Hotel Collection: Hotel Do Pozzi Our Lotus Hotel Collection: The St. Regis: Grand Room with Canal View or Similar Lotus class features exceptional room categories in our world-class hotels.

Final hotel assignments are made at around 60 days prior to the adventure. A comparable hotel will be utilized should our space be sold out by the time you book —  we will advise you of your final hotels.

BACK TO TOP        Got a question? CHAT HERE.

DAY 2: EXPLORING VENICE

After the delicious included breakfast at your hotel, join the Tour Captain and our expert City Guide for a morning unwrapping Venice's Secrets & Treasures. You will enjoy a unique touring experience through this dramatic and historic port city. We learn of the city's fascinating and colorful past from Casanova to Napoleon. Venice's unique character springs to life as we make our way through winding streets and over bridges.

Included Today: Privately guided tour of Venice, Inside Doges Palace, Inside Basilica San Marco

Venice: The Story Begins

Step into the captivating embrace of our local maestro (our expert private guide), whose storytelling breathes life into the rich tapestry of this extraordinary city. Wander through time as you cross the threshold of the majestic Byzantine St. Mark's Basilica, where each stone holds a tale and every arch whispers history. Embark on a riveting journey into the past with our visit to the Doge's Palace, an opulent testament to the city's grandeur. Traverse the corridors of power, adorned with tales of intrigue and political drama. Explore the haunting echoes of the Old Prison, where stories of the charismatic Casanova unfold, weaving a narrative of passion and escapades. As you traverse the renowned Bridge of Sighs, feel the weight of centuries-old secrets lingering in the air. Let the ambiance of this architectural marvel transport you to a bygone era, where each step echoes the footsteps of those who once walked these hallowed halls. Join us on on this Journey through Venice, where the city's pulse beats with the rhythm of history, and every landmark is a chapter waiting to be unveiled.

Our Secrets & Treasures Walking Tour of the heart of historic Venice includes:

• The Doge's Palace:  Skip-the-Long-Line Entrance to the Doge's Palace (meaning Duke or Governor's Palace), the seat of the Republic of Venice's historic power.

• Venice's Old Prison:  The Prisons of Venice: Found inside the Doge's Palace, is "The Leads," the prison portion of the Doges Palace, and you will learn about one occupant by the name of Casanova who, in 1756 at the age of 30, became one of the most famous occupants.

• Bridge of Sighs:  The bridge made famous for its window and last view of blue sky and freedom as prisoners are marched to their sentence.

• Basilica San Marco:  Enjoy the beautiful mosaics and how they reflect and dance in the light. Your Tour Captain "paints the picture" of the history and opulence that is the Basilica San Marco prior to entering. Once inside, enjoy 'silence' as you observe its beauty encased in Byzantine architecture.

• Piazza San Marco:  and our "Secret Treasures of Venice:"

•  Walking Delights:  Learn about the Clock Tower (Campanile), Caffé Florian, Napoleon and the Winged Lion

•  Enjoy included admission/entrance to  Museo Correr, Museo Archeologico Nazionale  and Monumental Rooms of the  Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana  at your leisure.

This evening just before sunset, enjoy our included Gondola ride through the canals of Venice with our professional musicians to make the ambiance perfect. On occasion inclement weather will prevent the gondola ride. In this scenario an alternate activity will be substituted later in the tour.

Enjoy the balance of the afternoon and evening at your leisure.

May We Suggest? • We think simply soaking up Venice this afternoon is a great plan, but if you'd like to fill it up a bit more, consider:

—  Peggy Guggenheim Museum —  3 Island Explorer: Burano, Murano and Torcello

Chapter 2: Florence

Birthplace of the Renaissance – 2 Days, 2 Nights

Why Now Journey for Italy's Great Cities? Florence: Our Florence experience takes in the known and the unknown as we explore this amazing city. And our sunset over the river and the city is exceptional.

DAY 3: WELCOME TO FLORENCE

Included Today: Discovery Walk, Reception and Dinner in the heart of Florence

Florence: Birthplace of the Renaissance

After our Discovery Walk, we arrive at our hotel, check in and freshen up. Rooms are generally ready by 3pm. Enjoy the balance of the afternoon at leisure until our welcome dinner tonight.

Your Journey Tour Captain hosts an amazing welcome dinner in Florence with authentic Tuscan cuisine served by Fiorentini who love what they do. Florence welcomes us with a variety of regional culinary tastes, premium beverages, and ample portions of fine local wines from Toscana and Chianti.

Our Deluxe Hotels Collection: Grand Hotel Cavour or Hotel Bernini Palace Our Deluxe Package includes these 4 Star and 5 Star properties with most hotels featuring a Standard or similar category room —  inquire if you'd like to upgrade for a larger room and/or category with a specific view (where available). Hotel room assignments are made closer to tour departure. Our Classic Hotel Collection: Hotel Rosso 23 or Hotel Renaissance Our Lotus Hotel Collection: Grand Hotel Cavour: Beatrice Suite or Similar Lotus class features exceptional room categories in our world-class hotels.

DAY 4: EXPERIENCING FLORENCE

Included Today: Privately guided Tour, Inside Academy Gallery, Inside Duomo, Afternoon at Leisure, Sunset Experience

Florence: Exploring the Heart

•  Galleria dell'Accademia:  Skip-the-Long-Line admission to experience  Michelangelo's David  in the Academy Gallery, the first art school of Europe.

•   Basilica Santa Maria del Fiore:  Our tour includes Florence's historic city center which is a  World Heritage  site that comprises the Baptistery, Campanile, and the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore – also known as the Duomo. The 14th-century dome was created by Brunelleschi.

•  The Gates of Paradise:  See the magnificent Gates of Paradise on the Baptistery, so called by Michelangelo. Our Local Guide will comment on these impressive doors to the Baptistery created by Lorenzo Ghiberti. Until the 19th century, most Catholic Florentines were baptized here. The Baptistery and Giotto's Campanile whose perspective we enjoy from ground level are all part of the Duomo of Santa Maria del Fiori complex.

•   Walking Delights: We explore Piazza della Repubblica and Piazza della Signoria

Following our Secrets & Treasures adventure the balance of the day is at your leisure.

May We Suggest? • We think simply soaking up Florence this afternoon is a great plan, but if you'd like to fill it up a bit more, consider:

—  Interested in checking out the leather market? —  What about a climb of the Duomo? We can arrange visits, admissions and more for you in advance. —  Consider a visit to the Basilica di Santa Croce (Basilica of the Holy Cross) is the principal Franciscan church in Florence and a minor Basilica of the Catholic Church. Many illustrious Italians are buried there including Michelangelo, Galileo, Rossini, Marconi, Machiavelli. Thus it is known as the Temple of the Italian Glories.

Optional Guided Experiences for your afternoon: We usually schedule most of these at around 3PM if possible.

• Uffizi Gallery: Private Tour with Guide: $279 per person (3 Hours). Guided our licensed guide with a PHD in Art History, as well as a published art books author, you will discover the unique artistic and cultural richness as the cradle of the Renaissance. The Uffizi Gallery is one of the most incredible art collections in the world of Italian and European Paintings. During the tour the guide will tell you the incredible stories of such masterpieces including those made by Giotto, Piero della Francesca, Filippo Lippi, Botticelli, Michelangelo, Raphael, Titian, Leonardo da Vinci and Caravaggio. •  Uffizi Gallery: Small Group Guided Tour: $199 per person. Enjoy the Gallery in a small group: The art history expert will guide you through the Uffizi Gallery and to the masterpieces contained within. During your tour, the guide will accompany you from hall to hall, taking you on a journey into art and its history as he or she illustrates the most beautiful works of art in the museum. Not only will you learn about the importance of each painting, but also the context in the times when they were made. •  Uffizi Gallery: Admission Ticket Only: $55 per person. Enjoy an admission ticket to the Gallery. •  Climb the Duomo Ticket: $45 per person. Enjoy a climb to the top of the cupola by climbing its 463 steps to get an extraordinary view of Florence. •  Private Tour of Pitti Palace Ticket: $240 per person / 2 guest minimum. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Italian royalty during a private tour of Pitti Palace, complete with convenient pick-up from your accommodations in Florence. Your guide not only navigates the expansive grounds for you but also shares intriguing facts and lesser-known anecdotes rarely heard by typical visitors. In contrast to impersonal large-group tours, this private experience guarantees your guide's undivided attention and ample opportunities to pose questions. •  A private tour of the Pitti Palace in Florence Ticket: $260 per person, 2 guest minimum for this privately guided tour. Italy, provides a personalized journey through this Renaissance marvel, led by an expert guide. Beginning with an introduction to the palace's rich history and Medici legacy, visitors delve into its opulent interior, admiring frescoes, stuccowork, and masterpieces by artists like Raphael and Caravaggio. The tour navigates grand halls, sumptuous apartments, and private chambers, culminating in exploration of the world-class art collections housed within. Following this, a leisurely stroll through the Boboli Gardens offers panoramic vistas and insights into Renaissance landscape architecture. With flexibility for customization, the experience caters to individual interests, ensuring an enriching encounter with Florence's cultural heritage amidst the palace's splendor.

Chapter 3: Under the Tuscan Sun

Tuscany's Countryside —  2 Days, 2 Nights

Why Now Journey for Italy's Great Cities? Tuscany: Mainstream tour operators generally don't add time in the Tuscany countryside like we do! Along with laundry service, Winery tour and tastings paired with morsels in our own private setting, and the Manhattan of Tuscany.

DAY 5: GOOD MORNING TUSCANY

It's a great day to explore further into the Tuscan countryside. After breakfast this morning, we bid Arrivederci to Florence and travel in our comfortable micro-coach into the Tuscan countryside.

Included Today: Privately guided touring, Winery Experience with tour, tastings paired with morsels, Welcome to Cortona, Apericena tonight.

Tuscany: Italy's Countryside

Our first stop is the hilltop village of San Gimignano. One of San Gimignano's most impressive sights is the medieval skyline made up of 13 remaining towers. Dating back from the 11th century, the village rises on a hill dominating the Elsa Valley. The town increased in wealth and developed greatly during the Middle Ages thanks to the "Via Francigena", the trading and pilgrim's route that crossed it. Once in the village, we enjoy free time to explore the city of towers. San Gimignano also has many shops with local specialties and crafts and we will have free time to enjoy purchasing souvenirs.

Before departing San Gimignano, we'll toast our arrival into the countryside of Tuscany with a unique perspective and our first taste of Vernaccia, a white wine that hails from San Gimignano.

Enjoy our in-depth experience at a winery estate in the heart of Tuscany - in stunning surroundings. We will enjoy a tour of the production facilities and cellars, followed by a delightful wine-tasting paired with perfect morsels for lunch. Our palate-pleasing appetizers and lunch include Pecorino cheese, bruschetta, and other local farm-to-table delights. You'll enjoy classic Chianti and Super Tuscan wines to complement the lunch. Buon Appetito!

Special Sightseeing today Includes:

• San Gimignano:  Sightseeing and free time in the Tuscan hill town known for its towers.

• Exclusive Winery:  Admission, Tour and  Wine Tasting at our Estate  located in the heart of Tuscany. Beautiful Property with stunning views, delicious varieties paired with sumptuous delicacies. You won't want to leave.

•  Tuscany's Wine Road:  Winding through the Tuscan hills, the wine road offers remarkable beauty, characterized by vineyards, wine cellars, distant rolling landscapes, and villages up in the hills.

To Cortona –  Our home for the next two nights In mid-afternoon we enjoy a leisurely drive to the delightful hill town of Cortona for our next chapter in the very heart of Tuscany. Your Journey Tour Captain checks you in and there is ample time to freshen up before meeting in the lobby tonight for a short walk to our special Apericena experience.

Tonight join your Tour Captain and fellow travelers for the new Italian meal, Apericena. Is it a snack? Is it dinner? No, it's Apericena! It's the perfect complement for your palate after a day of excellent cuisine and wine. Apericena provides the perfect light meal finalé to our beautiful day in the Tuscan countryside and in the magical ambiance of this delightful hill town.

Afterwards, enjoy the balance of the evening at your leisure.

Our Deluxe Hotels Collection: Villa Marsili or Monastero di Cortona Hotel & Spa Our Deluxe Package includes these 4 Star and 5 Star properties with most hotels featuring a Standard or similar category room —  inquire if you'd like to upgrade for a larger room and/or category with a specific view (where available). Hotel room assignments are made closer to tour departure. Our Classic Hotel Collection: Hotel Italia Our Lotus Hotel Collection: Monastero di Cortona - Hotel & Spa: Cortona's Roofs Suite or Similar Lotus class features exceptional room categories in our world-class hotels.

DAY 6: EXPLORING CORTONA AT LEISURE

Enjoy a full free day at your leisure in beautiful Cortona.

Many options are available from Cooking Classes to a day trip to Siena and more. Today, enjoy Tuscany at your leisure - perhaps it's a thorough exploration of delightful Cortona, a cooking class, horse-back riding, Vespa rental and much more.

Cortona to Explore

Nestled on a hillside in Tuscany, Cortona exudes timeless charm with its cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and sweeping views of the picturesque countryside. This historic town, rich in Etruscan and Renaissance influences, captivates visitors with its art, culture, and a warm, authentic Italian ambiance.

Optional experiences to consider for Today:

• Cooking Class from Cortona —  Just outside of Cortona, in the company of an expert chef, participants learn how to make several courses including a dessert. It is a different experience where the participants learn to prepare a multiple-course meal and then partake in the sampling of the prepared dishes while enjoying the olive oils and wines of the region! -Duration 3-5 hours. $248 per person.

•  Horseback Riding Adventure —  Commences at 9:30/10:00am or 2:00/3:00pm. $99 per person for first 2 hours, $37 per hour for each additional hour. Front desk of hotel will arrange round-trip taxi for you at guest expense. Options available for beginner or experienced riders.

•  Walking Tour of Siena with Round-trip Transportation —  Departs around 9:30am. $465 per person. The tour includes round-trip transfer from Cortona to Siena with a walking tour of Siena in the morning and some free time in the afternoon. Today's tour will walk you through the old Ghetto, the Tower District (Contrada della Torre), and through little alleys, and on to the Basilica dei Servi, from which point you can enjoy an amazing view of the old town. We will take in Orto dei Pecci; a pleasant and easily accessible garden, located just behind the main square: The serenity and tranquility of this green oasis, together with the view of the incredible Torre del Mangia will mesmerize you.

•  Morning Walking Tour of Siena with Cooking Class in Afternoon — Departs around 9:30am. $599 per person. Enjoy the morning tour (see description above) and then a special cooking class in the afternoon. Our driver then whisks you to a nearby villa where you will enjoy a tour of the vines, immersion in all things Wine, Balsamic, and Olive Oil followed by a cooking lesson. And, yes, you then enjoy the fruits of your labor. Our chef is capable and entertaining as you enjoy learning more about Tuscan cooking. We then return to the hotel in Cortona for a free evening.

•  Cortona and the Franciscan Monastery Le Celle —  $190 per person. A classic private walking tour of Cortona comprises the Garibaldi Square with its magnificent panoramic view over the Valdichiana, the Church of St. Dominic built for the Dominicans with its medieval architecture and paintings by Luca Signorelli e Lorenzo di Niccolò, via Nazionale, the Republic Square with the Town Hall, the Church of St. Francis with its collection of objects owned to St. Francis of Assisi, Piazza Signorelli with Palazzo Casali and the Duomo. Then the tour continues by car outside the city walls of Cortona to the Franciscan Monastery of Le Celle, immersed in a forest and a place of an extraordinary beauty, calm and Franciscan spirituality.

•  Cortona Ancient Walls, Fortresses, Convents and Churches —  $190 per person. This is a walking tour on steep slopes in the oldest part of Cortona leading up to the very top of the hill. For this reason is suitable for guests who enjoy walking (hiking) on slopes. The prize at the end is a fantastic view of Cortona and the valley below and the beauty of this less frequented and untouched part of the town. Above the center, half-way up to the hill of Cortona, are the Church San Francesco and beyond a cypress-lined courtyard, is the 15th century Chiesa di San Niccolò. The 15th-century church has a small porch with slender columns and the interior houses paintings by Luca Signorelli: the two-sided panel-painting, Descent from the Cross and Madonna Enthroned, and a fresco, Madonna with Saints. Passing by the little church San Cristoforo and Porta Montanina we will stop on the top to visit the Sanctuary of Santa Margherita, the town's patron saint. Finally walking down through the old part of town through the narrow alleyways of the quarter called Poggio San Marco you will admire also the beautiful 12 Via Crucis Stations with mosaics by the Futurist artist Gino Severin, a native of Cortona.

•  Assisi Privately Guided Tour with round-trip transportation —  $279 per person. Enjoy this special visit to the hometown of Saint Francis, peacefully set on the slopes of the Subasio Mountain. The Basilica of Saint Francis is one of Europe's most important church buildings and undoubtedly the cultural highlight of the entire region. Our guide will show you the most important monuments, the Roman remains, the charming intact medieval town, stunning views of the landscape and the town's hidden treasures. During this guided tour you will see the Basilica of St. Francis*, Piazza del Comune (central square), Minerva temple and other sites.

About Cortona Cortona is a small but fascinating hill town in the province of Arezzo, Tuscany. It is situated on a commanding hill that overlooks Lake Trasimeno, known for the infamous rout of the Romans by Hannibal and the Carthaginians. Its cyclopean walls, still preserved in great detail, are said to be 3000 years old. It was one of the twelve cities of Etruria.

Soak in the morning: enjoy a walk through the vineyards, or a hike up to the castle or a leisurely stroll through the piazza and streets.

Chapter 4: Rome -Heart of the Empire

Where All Roads Lead — 3 Days, 3 Nights

Why Now Journey for Italy's Great Cities? Rome: Our hotels located perfectly in the heart of Old Rome, seconds from the Pantheon, our Guide is the best in the city, and our finalé night in Rome is an exclusive to Now Journey and you will never forget it!

DAY 7: WELCOME TO THE HEART OF ROME

As we travel in our comfortable micro-coach (and Mercedes vans on some departures) to Rome, we find ourselves going back in time as we reach the center of ancient Rome.

Included Today: Across Tuscany and into Lazio, Discovery Walk, Reception and Dinner in the heart of Rome

There Once was a Dream that Was Rome.

As we transition from the rolling hills of Tuscany to the vibrant energy of Rome, the ancient city gradually reveals itself, adorned with iconic landmarks and bustling streets. Journeying towards the heart of Rome, the air becomes charged with history, leading us through time as we approach the majestic remnants of the Roman Empire and the timeless allure of its historic center.

On arrival into the city, we check in to our hotels which are located a short distance from the magnificent Pantheon.

Our Deluxe Hotels Collection: Palazzo Navona or Antico Albergo del Sole al Pantheon Our Deluxe Package includes these 4 Star and 5 Star properties with most hotels featuring a Standard or similar category room —  inquire if you'd like to upgrade for a larger room and/or category with a specific view (where available). Hotel room assignments are made closer to tour departure. Our Classic Hotel Collection: Hotel Navona, Albergo Abruzzi or Albergo Santa Chiara Our Lotus Hotel Collection: The Pantheon Iconic Rome Hotel, Autograph Collection: Suite with View or Similar Lotus class features exceptional room categories in our world-class hotels.

DAY 8 EXPLORING THE VATICAN

Included Today: Vatican City Tour with Skip the Line Admission, Sistine Chapel, St. Peters, Optional Dining Tonight

Vatican City: Museums,Sistine Chapel, St. Peters

Marvel at the intricate tapestries in the Vatican Museums, stand in awe beneath the iconic masterpiece of the Sistine Chapel's ceiling, and explore the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica, all curated to provide an intimate and immersive experience of Vatican City's artistic and historical treasures. This personalized tour ensures a deep connection with each masterpiece, allowing for a profound understanding of the rich cultural tapestry woven within the heart of the Vatican.

After our experience is complete we will exit at St. Peter's Square where you see the multi-color uniformed Swiss Guard on display as they guard the Vatican and the expanse of the beautiful piazza.

Journey's transports are waiting nearby when we're ready to head back to our hotels.

Our special sightseeing Walking Tour of Vatican City Includes:

•  St. Peter's Basilica and Square : Admission and Guided Tour to St. Peter's Basilica. Enjoy Skip-the-Long-Line special access with Priviledged Access Admission Included.

• Sistine Chapel:  Admission and Guided Tour of the Sistine Chapel: You will find inside the chapel The Last Judgment painting by Michelangelo, which he painted during the years 1535 to 1541. The work, designed on a grand scale, spans the entire wall behind the Sistine Chapel altar.

•  Vatican Museums:  Admission and Guided Tour of the Vatican City Museums: The Museums boast some of the most impressive tapestries and other works of art and sculpture found in the world.

*Please remember St. Peter's Basilica is an active church with celebrations and papal events that occur with short notice; Now Journey and our Guides cannot be held responsible for any cancellation or denial of entry due to last minute changes by the church leadership.

May We Suggest? • We think simply soaking up Rome this afternoon is a great plan, but if you'd like to fill it up a bit more, consider:

—  Foodie Tour of Trastevere —  Experience the Baths of Caracalla —  Visit Ostia Antica

DAY 9 EXPLORING MODERN & IMPERIAL ROME

After breakfast this morning, meet the Tour Captain and our City Guide for a walking tour of Rome. You will see ancient elements intertwined perfectly with present-day apartment buildings.

Included Today: Privately guided tour of Roman Fourm and Colosseum, Skip the Line Admission, Exclusive Dinner Tonight in a Secret Location

Rome: Eternal city, history's living canvas.

•  The Colosseum of Rome:  Flavian's amphitheater known popularly as the Colosseum or Colosseo . Special skip-the-long-line Entrance, Admission and Guided Tour of the amazing Colosseum of Rome.

•  The Roman Forum:  Special skip-the-long-line Entrance, Admission and Guided Tour of the Roman Forum or Foro Romano . We walk through the archaeological dig for unique perspectives of the Old Town Center of Rome, Palatine Hill, Capitoline Hill, Caesar's Palace, Curia or the Senate House, Temple of the Vestal Virgins, and the Triumphal Arches.

•  Capitoline Hill:  We ascend this amazingly sculptured and architecturally inspirational locale with its many statuary and works of art that pay homage to the Empire that was Rome.

• Walking Delights:  Views of Trajan's Market, Palatine Hill, Caesar's Palace, Curia known as the Senate Building, the Vittorio Emanuele II National Monument, the Jewish Ghetto, and other historic landmarks. 

Tonight join the Journey Tour Captain and new friends to celebrate our journey together. We will toast one another and our adventures through Italy's Great Cities and continue to our gala finalé dinner. Our days have been filled with new sights, tastes and discoveries - tonight enjoy reflecting on the incredible journey we've had together. It has been a Journey of Adventure and Discovery, along with making new friends! As our journey of discovery ends, we reminisce about our exploration of magnificent Italy. Tomorrow we will say, 'Arrivederci Roma!' but tonight we sing and make melody in the very heart of Rome. Arrivederci - until we meet again!  

Day 10: DEPARTURE DAY:  Arrivederci Italy!

Breakfast is included this morning should you have time before your departure.  Most of our guests seriously consider extending your vacation to the Amalfi Coast for the perfect ending —  it's 2 days and nights and includes Pompeii and treasures of the Amalfi Coast. See our optional extension below for proper temptation!

Are you wrapping up your Journey in Rome? May we recommend our Optional Departure Transfer to the Rome FCO Airport for $78 per person, minimum two guests. Inquire with us to book this departure transfer or you can independently arrange a transfer through the Rome hotel for approximately €75 per car.

Extension to the Amalfi Coast & Sorrento Peninsula

Optional extension: day 10: naples, pompeii, the sorrento peninsula & amalfi coast.

Say Farewell to Rome as you join our extension to the amazing Amalfi Coast and Sorrento Peninsula. We make our way to Naples and the modern city of Pompei, where we find Pompeii (note the two i's) which is the ancient Roman city we will visit with our expert guide this morning.

On our tour of the World Heritage Site of Pompeii we discover the city that was lost for nearly 1700 years before its rediscovery in 1748. Our Local Expert Guide explains the fascinating history, tragic destruction and amazing preservation of artifacts under tons of volcanic ash.

Following our Pompeii experience, we continue to Sorrento,our home to explore the beautiful Amalfi Coast.

After our check in, and time to relax we will enjoy a Discovery Walk on the way into the heart of Sorrento. Nestled along the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, Sorrento captivates with its charming narrow streets adorned with vibrant bougainvillea and lemon trees. The town's picturesque cliffside location offers stunning panoramic views of the azure Tyrrhenian Sea, making every step of your discovery walk an enchanting journey through Mediterranean beauty.

Your Journey Tour Captain hosts an amazing welcome dinner in Sorrento in one of our favorite restaurants in Italy. The owner, Mario, and Chef Lena along with their family and team welcome us to dinner tonight in their enchanting restaurant. You will enjoy an incomparable evening of Sorrentine cuisine and hospitality. As always with Journey, you select what you wish from the menu. The regional specialties are accompanied by included premium beverages - wine, beer, cocktails, soft drinks.

Deluxe: Hotel Bel Air, Grand Hotel Capodimonte, Bellevue Syrene or Minerva Sorrento Our Deluxe Package includes these 4 Star and 5 Star properties with most hotels featuring a Standard or similar category room —  inquire if you'd like to upgrade for a larger room and/or category with a specific view (where available). Hotel room assignments are made closer to tour departure.

OPTIONAL EXTENSION: DAY 11: EXPLORING THE AMALFI COAST AT LEISURE

You will have today completely at your leisure to explore Sorrento or consider one of our optional adventures.

Highly Recommended: Option for the Day: Private Boat Tour to the Isle of Capri - $525 per person. Enjoy our optional experience departing this morning and enjoy a boat trip to the Isle of Capri to enjoy free time on the Island. Then continue with our circumnavigation of the island, enjoy some time for swimming (towel service and refreshments onboard) and then we make our way back to Sorrento.

Your Journey Tour Captain will introduce Capri to you (and the other villa of Ana Capri). Occasionally, and when weather and seas permit, we are able to provide an experience that includes (in addition to round-trip service to and from Capri) time on the boat around the island with stops at various Grottos for viewing and swimming if you desire. We only "pass by" the Blue Grotto, we do not go inside the Blue Grotto as this usually takes the majority of the day.

Upon our return to the hotel, enjoy some time at leisure before we meet to walk once more into the enchanting embrace of Sorrento. Amidst the ambience, we shall partake in the Passeggiata, savoring each step as we reminisce on our shared odyssey. Our rendezvous culminates in a time-honored Traditional Farewell Apericena, a celebration of camaraderie and cherished memories at one of our favorite locales in Sorrento. Thus concludes our Journey of Adventure and Discovery, enriched by the bonds of newfound friendship. Until we meet again on our next escapade — Arrivederci!

OPTIONAL EXTENSION: Day 12: DEPARTURE DAY:  Arrivederci Italy!

Breakfast is included this morning should you have time before your departure. Are you wrapping up your Journey in Sorrento? May we recommend our Optional Departure Transfer to the Naples NAP Airport for $88 per person, minimum two guests. Inquire with us to book this departure transfer. You can fly from Naples International Airport to your gateway for your international flight.

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The Best 10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

Planning a trip to southern Italy? You’ve come to the right place. This is the ultimate 10 days in southern Italy itinerary.

Southern Italy is a captivating region known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. It boasts ancient ruins, picturesque coastal towns, and –best of all — delectable pizza.

Southern Italy offers all the pleasures of la dolce vita you’ll find elsewhere in Italy. But it has a slightly more Latin twist. For centuries, it was shaped by Arab, Greek, and Spanish domination.

At its most basic, southern Italy consists of four regions: Campania, Calabria, Puglia, and Basilicata. There are also the islands of Sardinia and Sicily, worlds apart in their own right.

The south boasts a rich array of art and architecture and sites that you simply won’t find in northern Italy — the whitewashed towns and olive groves of Puglia, the sensual drama of Naples, the stunningly beautiful of Capri, or the ancient eerie allure of Matera.

On top of that, you’ll find ancient Greco-Roman ruins, dazzling Baroque churches and towns, and Byzantine sites.

The food is also insanely good in southern Italy. It’s one of the great joys of visiting. Naples is the birthplace of pizza. In general, there’s a strong emphasis on fresh farm to table ingredients and seafood.

I just spent almost 3 weeks in southern Italy. So, I am ready to hand over the best 10 day southern Italy itinerary with some must know tips.

Overview of 10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

Here’s a snapshot glance of what you can see with 10 days in southern Italy.

Day 1 : Naples

• Day 2 : Pompeii & Vesuvius or Capri
• Day 3 : Positano
• Day 4 : Amalfi & Ravello
• Day 5 : Matera
• Day 6 : Matera, stop in Martina Franca on the way to Ostuni
• Day 7 : Ostuni
• Day 8 : Polignano a Mare & Monopoli
• Day 9 : Alberobello
• Day 10 : Lecce

More Time ?

If you have more than 10 days in southern Italy, you could spend more time in Naples at the outset or more time in Puglia at the end of your trip.

The towns of Trani, Brindisi, or Bari in Puglia are all well worth visiting. You could also head further south to the sizzling island of Sicily.

If you want to spend a bit more time on the glamorous Amalfi Coast instead, here’s a way to tweak this southern Italy itinerary:

• Day 2 : Pompeii & Vesuvius
• Day 3 : Capri day trip from Naples
• Day 4 : Positano
• Day 5 : Amalfi Town & Ravello
• Day 6 : Matera
• Day 7 : Matera
• Day 8 : Polignano a Mare
• Day 10 : Ostuni & Monopoli

Bases & Tours For A 10 Day Southern Italy Itinerary

For this southern Italy itinerary, I would recommend 4 bases. You could base for 2 days in Naples, 2 days in either Positano or Ravello, 2 days in Matera, and 4 days in Puglia.

For Puglia, I think the best bases are Ostuni, Monopoli, or Polignano al Mare. They are centrally located, have cute centro storicos , and have train stations if you need them. If you are visiting in summer and want a beach, you might opt for Monopoli.

If you don’t moving around a bit more, you could also stay in a trulli in Alberobello for a 1-2 nights just to have the experience.

Puglia is fairly easy to drive around. Just don’t plunge into the centro storico of any city or town. I would pick up a car on the way out of the Amalfi Coast. Before that, I would use trains, private transfers, buses, or ferries to get around.

Best Hotels:

Here are some hotel recommendations, based on hotels I’ve stayed in or checked out myself.

Naples : Eurostars Hotel Excelsior , T he Britannique , G rand Hotel Vesuvio

Positano : Palazzo Mur a ,   L a Sirenuse ,  I l San Pietro ,  H otel Poseidon

Ravello : Hotel Caruso ,  Hotel Villa Cimbrone ,  Palazzo Avino ,  V illa Maria

Matera : Sextantio Le Grotte , Aquatio Cave Hotel & Spa , Palazzo Gattini

Polignano a Mare : Hotel Grotta Palazzese , Giovi Relais

Ostuni : Hotel Relais La Sommita , Paragon 700 , Masseria Le Carrube

Monopoli : Hotel Don Ferrante , Palazzo Indelli

Alberobello : La Mandorla Luxury Trullo , Trullo Essenza-Trulli Anti Charme & Relax , Romantic Trulli

You might also consider staying in a “masseria” in the Puglia region. They are fortified farmhouses that have been transformed into luxury hotels with large rooms.

I stayed at Masseria Il Melograno (near Monopoli) and Masseria San Domenic o (near Ostuni) when I was touring Puglia. San Domenico is one of the world’s best small luxury hotels and was just stunning!

Best Tours:

Here are some of the top tours you will want to book in advance:

• half day tour in Naples with an archaeologist
• Pompeii entrance ticket
• Amalfi Coast boat tour
• Path of the Gods guided walking tour
• Amalfi vespa tour
• Matera tour with cave visit
• Alberobello walking tour with trulli visit
• Ostuni walking tour
• Lecce walking tour

10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

This south of Italy road trip starts in Naples and ends in Lecce.

Naples should be the starting point for any trip through southern Italy. From the airport, you can taxi or book a private transfer to your hotel.

Naples is the region’s capital and a vibrant, sometimes overwhelming, city. Naples lives by its own rules and has no discernible tourist gloss. It can be a a chaotic assault on the senses.

So, you’ll have to take the gritty with the pretty. But, with its long list of marvels, Naples will please those looking for culture, history, and pizza. For every dirty street, there’s a sumptuous Baroque church.

With only a day in the city, you could follow my one day in Naples itinerary .

I advise spending most of your time in the historic center around Spaccanapoli. The old center is teeming with tiny lanes, ancient palazzi, pizzerias, and ornate churches.

Some of the must see churches include Gesu Nuovo, the Cloister of Santa Chiara , Sansevero Chapel, and the Duomo di Napoli .

Sansevero is a stunning over-the-top Baroque chapel filled with exquisite Baroque sculpture. It’s a must see, but always sold out.

Be sure to  b ook a timed entry ticket  online well in advance. Alternatively, if tickets are sold out, you can  book a walking tour  that includes a visit to the chapel.

In Capodimonte and the National Archaeological Museum , Naples has two of Europe’s greatest museums. Art lovers should go to the Capodimonte for its large cache of top rate Renaissance and Baroque art. Those going to Pompeii should get a preview of its treasures at the archaeological museum.

In high season (May to September), I advise  booking a skip the line ticket for the archaeological. museum. I took this  private tour  of the museum with an archaeologist and loved it! 

Day 2: Pompeii & Vesuvius

On day 2, visit Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius from Naples. In Pompeii, explore the well-preserved ancient city buried by Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. 

Walk through homes, baths, theaters, temples, a brothel and the forum. Don’t miss the beautifully restored frescoes in the House of Menander, the House of the Vettii, and the Villa of Mysteries.

Stroll along the historic streets, imagining life in this bustling city over two thousand years ago. 

After Pompeii, head to Mount Vesuvius. The imposing volcano overlooks the Bay of Naples.

Embark on a hike along the trail and enjoy breathtaking views. Reach the crater’s edge and witness the power of nature that once engulfed Pompeii.

Vesuvius is also known for its wineries. And you can book a winery tour and lunch there.

At a minimum, for day 2, you’ll need to book a  P ompeii entrance ticket , a Mt. Vesuvius entrance ticket , and perhaps a  private transfer to Pompeii .

I also advise booking a  3 hour tour to Pompeii with an archaeologis t  to get the complete historical backdrop. You can also book a  f ull day tour to both Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius . 

For more information and must know tips for visiting, here’s my  complete guide to visiting Pompeii .

Day 2 Alternative: Capri

If you’ve already been to Pompeii or just prefer a scenic island, spend day 2 in Capri. You can take the ferry from Naples or book a Capri day trip from Naples .

Capri is one of the most dazzling and seductive islands in the Mediterranean. You’ll be delighted with Capri’s soaring cliffs, shimmering emerald water, whitewashed towns, and historic landmarks.

Capri has two adorable towns, Capri Town and Anacapri. Capri Town is the more glamorous of the duo.

In Capri Town, you can go upscale shopping on Via Cammarelle. Or hike along the coastal trail or up to Villa Jovis.

In Anacapri, you can visit the beautiful Villa San Michele, hike to belvederes or tour the Blue Grotto. Capri is also beautiful as seen from the water, so a boat tour or visit to the Blue Grotto is magical.

Here are some of the tours you might consider in Capri:

• boat tour of Capri
• 6 hour Blue Grotto visit and walking tour
• private boat tour with Blue Grotto
• cooking class with wine pairing
• tour of Capri Town, Anacapri & Blue Grotto

For more information and tips, you can check out my 2 days in Capri itinerary .

Day 3: Positano

One day 3, head to the pretty-in-punk pastel town of Positano. You can book a private transfer from Naples to get there.

Start your day in Positano with a stroll along Spiaggia Grande, Positano’s main beach. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque waterfront. 

Take in the vibrantly colored umbrellas and crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. If you’re up for it, take a refreshing dip in the sea or rent a lounge chair and relax on the sun-kissed sands.

If you enjoy hiking for views, you will want to hike the the Path of the Gods. This scenic trail offers panoramic vistas of the Amalfi Coast and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. You can do it yourself and book a private transfer to Bomerano (where the trail starts) or take a guided tour . 

After taking in the vistas from the Path of the Gods, descend back to Positano. Treat yourself to a delicious lunch at one of the local trattorias or cafes.

In the afternoon, pay a visit to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Admire its beautiful dome and stunning Byzantine-style mosaics. 

Explore the charming alleys and narrow streets of Positano. They’re lined with boutique shops, artisanal craft stores, and local art galleries.

Positano is known for its stylish clothing and beautiful ceramics. Pottery spills out on virtually every nook and cranny of the town. 

The best views of the sea-tumbling houses are from the top of Via Christoforo and Via Pasitea.

As the sun begins to set, find a spot at one of the cliffside bars or restaurants with panoramic terraces. Sip on a refreshing cocktail or sample some ice cold limoncello as you watch the sunset.

For dinner, reserve at a restaurant with cliffside views. Options include La Sponda at La Sirenuse Hotel, La Terrace in Hotel Eden Roc, Maestro’s in Villa Treville, or Il Tridente at Hotel Poseidon.

Day 4: Amalfi & Ravello

On day 4, visit the towns of Amalfi and Ravello. You can take the bus, the ferry, or go on a guided tour from Positano .

Like Positano, Amalfi Town is carved into a cliff and houses seem to tumble down to the sea.

The main attraction in Amalfi is its gorgeous cathedral. It’s a heady blend of Byzantine, Romanesque, and Moorish styles.

The exterior is covered in mosaics and has a loggia with Moorish arches. A dramatic steep staircase leads to the entrance through the Cloister of Paradise.

The cloister is lovely — filled with frescos, statuary and ancient sarcophagi from Paestum. From there, you can wade through the reliquaries and artifacts in the Diocesan Museum and inspect the cathedral itself. For more information, you can check out my complete  guide to Amalfi Cathedral .

If you are interested in ancient trades, you can also check out Amalfi’s Paper Museum. Amalfi was a major producer of handmade paper in medieval times.

The museum is housed in a 13th century paper mill. Guides will demonstrate how paper was made using traditional methods and machinery.

Have a walk through the piazzas and charming back streets of Amalfi. Then, head up to Ravello.

You can hike up via the Valley dei Ferrierre trail or the ever-so-steep Ravello Challenge. Or you can take a bus or taxi.

Ravello is a tiny town. But it’s chock full of high quality ceramic shops. It has a lovely cathedral and two magnificent medieval villas.

Villa Rufolo is in the Piazza del Duomo next to the cathedral. Its main draw is its magnificent gardens. From the Wagner Terrace, you have stunning views of the Amalfi Coast.

Villa Cimbrone is even better. It’s the epitome of romance.

The grounds are filled with crumbling follies, ancient statuary, rose gardens, and wisteria pergolas. Its belvedere, the Terrace of Infinity, offers up the best panoramic vistas on the entire Amalfi Coast.

For more information on these two towns, you can check out my one day in Amalfi Town itinerary and my 2 days in Ravello itinerary .

Day 5: Matera

On day 5, pick up your rental car and head to Matera. Matera is one of Italy’s most alluring sights, thanks to its sassi cave dwellings. It’s the world’s oldest continuously inhabited city at 9,000 years old.

The town looks and feels ancient. It was definitely one of my favorite spots in all of southern Italy.

There are approximately 3,000 cave houses and 150 cave churches. Once the “shame” of Italy, they are now renovated and a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can even stay in a cave hotel!

The best way to see it all is to book a walking tour of the sassi . You can also book a private tour or a food and wine tour .

If you want to do it on your own, the two sassi districts (Barisano and Caveoso) can be accessed from several points in town including from Piazza Vittorio Veneto, Piazza Duomo, and Piazza San Francesco. You’ll see signs. The main drag is Strada Panoramic dei Sassi.

You’ll also want to visit some cave churches. The most impressive is the 10th century Santa Maria d’Idris.

It’s perched on a hill and offers up great views of the sassi . Inside, there are some lovely medieval frescos to admire.

Just south of the church is a cave museum, the Casa-Grotto di Vico Solaria. You can even see the “mangers” for the donkeys and pigs that once lived inside.

You can also check out some of Matera’s other museums: MUSMA (contemporary scupture), Muse Nazioinale Ridola (archaeology finds), or Museo d’Arte Medieval e Moderna (sacred and contemporary art).

In the evening, take a leisurely walk along Via Ridola. It’s a charming street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Stop for dinner at a cozy trattoria and sample the local dishes like orecchiette pasta, lamb, and delicious cheeses. I had delicious meals at Baccanti and Ristorante Burro Salato.

Day 6: Matera To Puglia

Spend your morning in Matera. Begin your day with a visit to the Matera Cathedral. The entrance is in a side street.

Marvel at its impressive architecture, adorned with intricate details and frescoes. There’s even a cave-like nativity scene. And you can climb the bell tower for great views of the gorge.

Explore the adjacent Piazza Duomo and take in the panoramic views of the Sassi districts from the belvedere.

In the afternoon, head out to the town of Martina Franca on the way to Ostuni in the region of Puglia. It’s about a 1:15 drive from Matera to Martina Franca.

The town is built on a hill overlooking olive groves and has an appealing historic center. It’s dominated by the Palazzo Ducale in Piazza Roma. Another main square is the Piazza Plebiscito, home to a beautiful Baroque church.

Have lunch at Trattoria Sant’Anna or Trattoria Pizzeria del Corso. Then, it’s just a 30 minute drive to Ostuni.

Ostuni is one of Puglia’s most appealing hilltop towns, known as the “White City.” It’s a historic settlement that spans three hilltops.

Settle into your accommodation and take an evening stroll through the city.

It’s a maze-like tangle of up and down streets that you’re sure to get lost in. Head to the scenic viewpoints in Ostuni, such as the Belvedere Santa Lucia or the Terrace of Sant’Oronzo, for breathtaking panoramic views.

Have dinner at Taverna della Gelosia or Osteria Ricanatti.

Day 7: Ostuni & Monopoli

In the morning, visit Ostuni’s Spanish-influenced Gothic cathedral. Marvel at its impressive facade and step inside to admire the beautiful interior with its ornate decorations and stunning frescoes.

You could also visit the Archaeological and Civic Museum. It’s a small museum with some interesting artifacts dating back to Paleolithic times. The must see exhibit is the pregnant “mother of the world,” from 28,000 years ago.

But the real joy of Ostuni is just wandering the whitewashed streets. There are flowers at every turn, even a few cats.

I had a delicious lunch at Cielo. it’a an atmospheric place with whitewashed vaulted ceilings.

In the afternoon, drive to the seaside town of Monopoli. It’s a fascinating seaside town with charming narrow streets, a magnificent cathedral, and some great trattorias.

It’s less touristy and has a more lived in feel than towns like Matera or Albrobello. The Monopoli Cathedral is a real must visit. I took shelter in it during a rainstorm, so got to inspect it pretty closely.

In the early evening, take a stroll along the Lungormare. Admire the classic Apulian blue and red fishing boats. There’s an old defensive tower, which you can climb for views.

Enjoy an aperol spritz in Piazza Garibaldi. Then, grab some fresh seafood at one of Monopoli’s many restaurants. I enjoyed La Locanda Sul Porto and Gaia Osteria Popolare.

READ : One Day In Monopoli Itinerary

Day 8: Polignano a Mare

On day 8, head to Polignano a Mare, a timeless beauty. It’s a picture perfect whitewashed village that seems made entirely of limestone.

The town’s winding streets are lined with flowering plants. The town offers incredible views over the Adriatic Sea.

Via Roma is the main drag. It’s chic and chock full of chic shops, eateries, and gelato shops.

But the back streets are adorable too. You’ll see poems written on some of the walls and steps.

Polignano is best known for the inlets and coves carved into its shoreline.

The most famous of these is right in the center of town, the Lama Monachile Beach. The Grotto Palazzese is a tiny masterpiece that’s home to a cave restaurant and 5 star hotel.

Taking a stroll along the Lungomare Domenico Modugno or the Longomare Cristofero Columbo makes for good viewing. The first one is where you’ll find the famous statue of Volare, the singer songwriter and a Polignano native.

You might consider taking a boat cruise through the coves, a boat cave tour , or a street food tour while in Polignano.

I was in Polignano for a few days so I was able to sample some of its fabulous restaurants. I had fine meals at Osteria dei Mulini, Restaurant Antiche Mura, and Specchie Sant’Oronzo. Even the street food cafe, at Olio su Pane, was delicious.

READ : One Day In Polignano a Mare Itinerary

Day 9: Alberobello

Alberobello is an incredibly unique and picturesque town in Puglia, known for its iconic trulli houses. Trulli are round stone buildings with conical gray slate roofs. Alberobello has over 1500 of them.

If you can ignore the crowds, the town has a real fairytale vibe, almost like a fantasy film set. It’s like nothing you’ve ever seen before.

The trulli are spread out along the eight streets of the Rione Monte. Some of them are adorned with astrological or astronomical symbols on the roofs.

The best way to see them is from one of the town’s many belvederes. There are especially good views from Belvedere Santa Lucia and from the belvedere on the left of the Piazza del Popolo. You could also book a guided walking tour of the trulli.

Afterward, make your way though the labyrinth of streets of Alberobello. You’ll come across the best known trulli — Trullo Sovrano and the Trullo Siamese.

Be sure to head to the Rione Ain Piccola. It’s a more authentic and less trafficked area with nearly 400 trulli .

Alberobello is also a fun place to take a guided food tour , an e-bike tour with foccacia tasting , or a cooking class .

I had the best focaccia I’ve ever tasted at Enoteca Regionale (made with burnt flour) and learned how to make mozzarella at Mimmo’s trullo.

If you want, you could spend half of the day 9 in Alberobello and half of the day in the cute neighboring town of Locorotondo.

The unique circular town boasts narrow streets, whitewashed houses with sloped roofs called cumerse , and intricate balconies adorned with colorful flowers.

Be sure to see Palazzo Morelli, with its eye catching carved portal. The main church is San Giorgio.

It’s a beautiful Baroque church with an elegant facade and a stunning rose window. Step inside to admire the ornate interior, with its intricate altars and Neapolitan frescoes.

In the Marziolla district, you will find another fascinating collection of trulli .

Day 10: Lecce

Polish off your 10 days in southern Italy with a visit to lavish Lecce. It’s Baroque jewel known as “the Florence of the South.”

It’s also called the “City of Churches” and the “City of Gardens.” To visit the city properly, you can book an architecture tour , zip around on a rickshaw tour , or go on a street food tour .

Lecce is a maze of narrow streets. Its nerve center is Piazza del Duomo.

The square is a stunning architectural ensemble with the magnificent Lecce Cathedral, Palazzo Vescovile (Bishop’s Palace), and the Seminary (which has a beautiful cloister and bell tower). It’s especially lovely in the evening when its lit by floodlights.

The Duomo has an extravagant, highly chiseled facade. It was built by the principal architect of the city’s Baroque transformation, Giuseppe Zimbalo.

If you proceed down Via Vitttorio Emanuele II, you will arrive at Santa Maria del Rosario. It’s Zimbalo’s last and finest work.

The other main square is Piazza Sant’Oronzo to the east. In the southern part of the square, you’ll find the sunken remains of a Roman amphitheater. it was built by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century.

At the square’s heart is the Colonna di Sant’Oronzo. You’ll also see two other gems, the 16th century Sedile and the Church of San Marco.

From this square walk north on Via Umberto to see the magnificent Basilica of Santa Croce. It’s the apotheosis of Lecce’s frenzied Baroque architectural style.

Santa Croce showcases intricate carvings, ornate decorations, and a facade adorned with mythical creatures, dragons, angels, and other symbolic motifs. It is considered one of the most beautiful churches in Italy .

In the early evenings, join the crowds at Piazza Sant’Oronzo for an apertivo . Try a glass of Salice Salentino , a renowned and robust local wine, at Caffe Alvino. There are also some good win bars on Via Umberto.

The city brims with rustic restaurants serving up hearty southern Italian food. Check out Crianza or la Vecchia Osteria da Totu.

More Than 10 Days in Southern Italy?

If you have more than 10 days, you have several options.

If you are a city person, I would spend more time in Naples at the outset of your trip. The city takes awhile to get under your skin and there are just so many attractions.

You could also spend more time eating your way through Puglia. The towns of Molfetta, Trani, Brindisi, and Otranto are all well worth visiting.

Another idea is to head further south to Sicily. To do this, you could fly out of Bari Airport or Brindisi Airport to Palermo or Catania.

For ideas on what to do in Sicily, you can check out my blog post on five ways to spend one week in Sicily . I also have itineraries for Syracuse , Trapani , Catania , Taormina , and Palermo .

If you are feeling a bit bushed after 10 days in southern Italy trip, perhaps you just want to lounge on a beach in Cefalu or Taormina.

Alternatively, ruin lusters can explore the island’s fine Greco-Roman ruins in Segesta , the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento , Syracuse Archaeological Park , or the Villa Romano del Casale .

Tips For A 10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

Here are some other must know tips for spending 10 days in southern Italy.

1. How To Get To Southern Italy

You’ll want to fly into Naples. It has its own international airport, NAP. It’s also known as Capodichino Airport. 

From the airport, you can take a taxi or  book a private transfer  to your hotel. You can also book a  private transfer from Rome , if you fly in there.

Naples also has a major train station that’s well connected to other cities, Napoli Centrale. 

2. When To Visit Southern Italy

The general rule to to avoid July and August. These are the hottest, most expensive, and busiest months.

This is especially true on the island of Capri and in the Amalfi Coast. I was also told Matera can get up to 120 degrees in summer.

Late April/May is a delightful time to visit. Everything is lush, festooned with flowers, and landscapes look like fresco paintings.

The weather stays good until about late October. So, a fall visit is also a good choice.

3. How To Get Around Southern Italy

For the part of your itinerary centered on Naples and the Amalfi Coast, I wouldn’t get a car. I would use the extensive network of buses, trains, and some private transfers.

The road along the Amalfi Coast offers one of Italy’s most famous drives. But the road is difficult, with hairpin turns and heavy traffic. Plus, rental rates are high. I personally wouldn’t want to drive there.

In general, however, the train system in the south isn’t as good as the north. So, once you depart the Amalfi Coast, I think it makes sense to pick up a rental car for the rest of your trip.

Driving in Puglia is pretty straightforward. The roads are reasonably well maintained, except for small rural roads where you will find potholes. And the traffic is less heavy than more popular places like Tuscany.

4. What To Eat In Southern Italy

Southern Italy is a foodie paradise. The region boasts fresh ingredients, sun-ripened produce, bold flavors, and magical herbs.

Naples is the birthplace of pizza. As Julia Roberts said in the movie Eat, Pray, Love , it’s easy to have a “relationship” with it.

Neapolitan pizza has a thin, soft, and slightly chewy crust. The sauce is made from the delicious crushed San Marzano tomatoes.

In the Amalfi Coast, everything is made with lemons — limoncello liqueur, lemon cakes, lemon delight, lemon pasta, and lemon flavored pastries.

The pasta specialities are scialatielli and ravioli caprese . Scialatielli is a type of homemade pasta that is typically served with a flavorful seafood sauce.

You’ll also find an abundance of fish and seafood — mussels, clams, tuna, octopus, shrimp, etc.

In Puglia, the burrata and mozzarella is impossibly smooth and creamy. It’s usually served with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.

You’ll also find some of the freshest vegetables I’ve ever tasted. The zucchini, artichokes, and eggplant are all delicious.

The homemade pasta is to die for. In Puglia, the specialty is orecchiette . It’s a small ear-shaped pasta. It is often served with a variety of sauces, such as broccoli rabe, cherry tomatoes, and anchovies.

Another thing to try is focaccia barese . It’s a delicious variation of the classic Italian flatbread. The bread is generously topped with cherry tomatoes, olives, oregano, and olive oil, creating a burst of flavors in every bite.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 10 days in southern Italy itinerary. You may enjoy these other Italy travel guides and resources.

• 3 day itinerary for Rome
• 5 day itinerary for Rome
• 3 day intinerary for Naples
• 1 day itinerary for Vatican City
• 3 day itinerary for Florence
• 2 day itinerary for Venice
• 1 day itinerary for Milan
• 1 day itinerary for Siena
• One week in Umbria
• 10 days in Italy itinerary
• 10 day itinerary for Tuscany
• 12 ways to spend 1 week in Italy
• 2 weeks in Sicily itinerary

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Last Updated on June 20, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

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Travel to italy like an insider with the best local experts.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Active Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury Travel in Italy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Calabria & Southern Italy

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

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

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

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

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

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

Food & Wine

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

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

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As it happened: Sprinters nearly miss out as Pogačar, Thomas go on the attack

Belgian sprinter wins blanket finish after race leader is caught in final 300 metres

Giro d'Italia – Everything you need to know Giro d'Italia favourites 2024 Giro d'Italia route 2024 Giro d'Italia stage 2 report

Buongiorno and welcome to our live coverage of stage 3 of the 2024 Giro d'Italia!

After an exhilarating opening weekend of racing with the GC action exploding in Turin and up Oropa, today's third stage should be the first opportunity for the sprinters' teams to show themselves and fight it out in a big bunch finish.

The race stays in the Piedmont region in northwest Italy with a 166km route starting in Novara and heading south to Fossano. There isn't much in the way of climbing along the route with just a singular category 4 climb to content with, so those with fast men should look to control. 

Yesterday's dominant display from Tadej Pogačar on the first summit finish of the race saw him move into the pink jersey with a 45-second lead on Geraint Thomas heading into today's stage. If you missed out on the Slovenian's stunning solo victory, catch up with how he did it below. Giro d'Italia: Tadej Pogačar crashes but then cracks rivals with solo attack to win stage 2 to Oropa

With the move into the maglia rosa, here's a look at Pogačar customised bike for the third day. Nothing crazy for now but the pink accents do make that Colnago look even sweeter. 

A post shared by UAE Team Emirates🇦🇪 (@uae_team_emirates) A photo posted by on

We're around 45 minutes away from the neutralised start in Novara.

We've unfortunately had the second abandon of the 2024 Giro d'Italia, with Eddie Dunbar leaving the race due to injuries he sustained yesterday. Eddie Dunbar pulls out of the Giro d'Italia after crashing on stage 2

One man who will certainly be happy to be back in Novara is Tim Merlier. This is where the Belgian sprinter won his first Grand Tour stage in 2021 when he took victory in the second stage ahead of Giacomo Nizzolo. He's riding for a different team in 2024 with Soudal-QuickStep but he'll be hoping for similar success today.

Riders are completing sign-ons and the team presentation ahead of the third stage. Piemonte native Filippo Ganna (Ineos Grenadiers) gets the biggest cheer of the day so far.

Aside from Merlier, there are a whole host of other sprinters at this year's Giro in one of the most stacked fields for a while: - Olav Kooij (Visma-Lease a Bike) - Jonathan Milan (Lidl-Trek) - Caleb Ewan (Jayco AlUla) - Fabio Jakobsen and Tobias Lund Andresen (DSM-Firmenich PostNL) - Alberto Dainese (Tudor) - Kaden Groves (Alpecin-Deceuninck) - Phil Bauhaus (Bahrain-Victorious) - Danny van Poppel (Bora-Hansgrohe) - Juan Sebastián Molano (UAE Team Emirates)

However, looking closer at today's finish in Fossano reveals a much punchier final few kilometres than a simple flat run-in. The road up to Fossano takes the riders off a main road and onto a steeper duo of switchbacks. This steep pinch could prove a real problem for the purer sprinters mentioned earlier.

Here's a look at Jonathan Milan arriving at the start of today's stage. He'll fancy his chances even with the steep pinches near the finale. Milan won the first sprint opportunity at last year's race and held the maglia ciclamino right the way through to Rome.

Here's what Caleb Ewan had to say ahead of the stage: "Now I've had a really good preparation for the Giro and I feel really good so hopefully I can go for some stages here," said Ewan in Novara to CyclingProNet. In his pomp, Ewan would have been perfectly suited to a punchy run into a sprint so if he's anywhere near back to his best it could be a chance to score his sixth Giro stage win. "I think a finish like this suits me, with some of the sprinters legs I guess being a bit tired at the top of the climb. I think it is going to be really tough but it should come down to a sprint."

Pogačar looks resplendent in the pink jersey, taking time to sign autographs ahead of signing on. It should be a day of staying safe in the peloton with the race leader not getting carried away despite taking a big lead yesterday. 'I was riding on the front wheel with zero pressure' - Pogačar brushes off crash but the Giro is far from over

Its a big day for Olav Kooij and Visma-Lease a Bike as the Dutchman eyes his first opportunity to take a Grand Tour stage win on debut. Visma set stage wins as their main objective for this year's Giro and sprinter Kooij will be the focus with a strong leadout train of Edoardo Affini, Tim van Dijke and Christophe Laporte.

🇮🇹 #GirodItaliaOlav is ready. 💬 pic.twitter.com/pDSMmp9YKy May 6, 2024

Here he is then. Race leader Tadej Pogačar gears up for the start of stage 3 in the maglia rosa. 

Pogačar's shorts are looking rather ciclamino, however, and he's shared a friendly chat with the maglia ciclamino wearer Filippo Fiorelli on the start line. If he is to hold his lead, expect to see him fully in pink as the days go on.

Unofficial Start

Stage 3 of the Giro d'Italia is underway. The riders have set off from Novara to the cheers of big crowds. We'll have six kilometres to get through until we get to kilometre 0.

Bubbling underneath the pure sprinters is a whole host of fast men who are more than punchy enough to survive those late steep pinches in the road: - Laurence Pithie (Groupama-FDJ) - Biniam Girmay (Intermarché Wanty) - Matteo Trentin (Tudor) - Filippo Ganna (Ineos Grenadiers) - Christophe Laporte (Visma-Lease a Bike) - Timo Kielich (Alpecin-Deceuninck)

Davide Ballerini is enjoying a chilled start to the day and tucking into some haribos out of the lead race car. He'll either be on duty for his own ambitions or Max Kanter at the finish today. 

166KM TO GO

Stage 3 is officially underway at this year's Giro. Flag dropped by race director Stefano Allocchio and the jacket on his back shows just how the weather could play a part in today's stage. No attacks as of yet from the flag drop as there have been for the past two days.  

A look at the jersey wearers on stage 3 of the Giro d'Italia: Cian Uijtdebroeks in white, Pogačar in pink, Fiorelli in ciclamino and Dani Martínez who is looking after the blue KOM jersey for the Slovenian race leader. Andrea Piccolo (EF Education EasyPost) was also on the front row after his efforts in the break yesterday. 

Full status quo on the peloton for now with everyone happy for a calm start after two full gas days of racing in the hills and mountains. All eyes will be on the finale.

160KM TO GO

Very chilled out pace for everyone and no one fancying disrupting off the front. Lots of chats going on at the back of the peloton.

Here's that chat between Fiorelli and Pogačar with the Italian wondering whether the Slovenian had his colours mixed up when he put on his shorts this morning. The ciclamino bottom half has been causing quite a stir on social media. 

Big smile on the face of Cian Uijtdebroeks to the camera as the young Visma man started his first day in white at the Giro. He moved into the lead of the young rider's classification with a top ride yesterday up to Oropa. Cian Uijtdebroeks hits ground running in Giro d’Italia debut with youth classification lead

Pogačar and Geraint Thomas are taking the chance to have a chat after the GC action exploded yesterday. It won't be a day for either of them today with a calm sprint stage on the menu. They'll be eyeing the final 3km and a safe run into Fossano

150KM TO GO

No change in the peloton for now.

Here's what one of the favourites for the day, Tim Merlier, had to say about today's potential sprint: "It will be a hard final, it will make it really hectic. Some riders will be on the limit. It is a strange finish in the end but we will see what happens," he told CyclingProNet . "The seasons started really well so I want another one today." He'll have a strong side dedicated to helping him reach the finish today with Bert Van Lerberghe and Luke Lamperti as two of his last men in the train. Julian Alaphilippe could also be involved to ride the punchy climb near the finish on the front for Merlier.

140KM TO GO

Another 10 kilometres goes by without any change in the peloton. It is looking like there is no chance of a break today unless someone makes a move on one of the very few rises.

Thumbs up and a wave from Fabio Jakobsen to the camera. He said to media this morning that the stage will be his to go for as plan A but if he isn't feeling good then Tobias Lund Andresen will have the same freedom he had at the Tour of Turkey where he scored three stage wins. 

With the first chance of a sprint incoming, make sure you catch up with what 12-time Giro stage winner Robbie McEwen had to say to Cyclingnews about the sprint field. 'Giro d’Italia sprints are going to be incredible’- Robbie McEwen rates the sprint contenders

130KM TO GO

Intermarché Wanty and Alpecin-Deceuninck are the teams technically on the front of the peloton but without anything to chase there is no need to up the pace. 

A look at the peloton on today's third stage.

120KM TO GO

Intermarché are keeping their spot at the front of the peloton but these last few kilometres have just been a chance for the riders to get a feed in and take on some food ahead of the final 100 kilometres.

Signs of movement in the peloton. First attacks are starting from Intermarché with the one categorised climb of the day approaching. Lilian Calmejane is the most active. 

Davide Ballerini (Astana Qazaqstan) has gone with the Frenchman off the front. The one climb of the day will be to Lu (3.4km at 3.8%) which offers a maximum of three KOM points.

110KM TO GO

Calmejane must be thinking of the long term and after an incredibly easy start,  it isn't much exertion for three KOM points which could be useful later on in the race. He led the classification after stage 1 so could be targeting it throughout this year's Giro.

They had a chat before and Calmejane takes the maximum points with Ballerini close behind. The duo's lead does show quite a narrow road through Lu so they'll have to be careful as they funnel into the KOM point. 

There are splits in the peloton as Lidl-Trek hit the front with Jasper Stuyven just after the narrowing in the road following the KOM. Time for everyone to wake up with 104km to go.

Here's a look back and Calmejane and Ballerini cresting the only categorised climb of the day. A coupe spots of rain have been spotted on the cameras the racing calms down again. Time for a nature break for most. 

Lilian Calmejane wins the mountain sprint and wakes up everyone 🙌 #Giro pic.twitter.com/EGCo3GgPOC May 6, 2024

With Calmejane's job done for the day, Ballerini has been left out in front with a 1:06 gap but he isn't riding with any intention of staying away. 

100KM TO GO

Think this look from Davide Cimolai and Ruben Fernandez sums up today's stage. Plenty of time in the bunch for a chat, a laugh and even a smile for the cameras.

Ballerini has been caught after trying his absolute hardest to do so. Things have calmed down again in the peloton.

There was a big slowing of the pace at the back of the peloton as they exited a roundabout but no one seems to have hit the deck thankfully. 

We're closing in on the first intermediate sprint point of the day into Masio (Abbazia). It should be a good chance to see some of the fast men's form and who is saving themselves just for the finale.

A look at the peloton navigating some of the lovely narrow roads on stage 3 of this year's Giro.

Alpecin have started drilling it on the front so Groves is clearly fancying the intermediate sprint as he has been for the first two stages. Intermarché are also showing themselves for Girmay with Tudor the third team active in the peloton for Dainese's efforts. 

Milan is freelancing in his Lidl-Trek jersey so he is up for defending his ciclamino jersey that he won last season. Milan takes the IS first with Kooij in second and Merlier in third - perhaps a sign of things to come in today's finale.

Fiorelli attacks in the ciclamino jersey. Splits had been forming as the sprinters teams ramped up towards the intermediate sprint point and the Italian has taken his opportunity to try and break up the racing. 

The peloton is calming behind but there is a large group of sprinters and leadout riders off the front. Fiorelli isn't happy with the composition and goes off the front alone again. 

With around 25 riders peeling away in the front group, UAE have placed a rider at the front of the peloton to keep up the tempo. The leader's have a 1:23 advantage and are swapping turns with Alpecin, Intermarché, QuickStep, Visma, Tudor and Bardiani represented by multiple riders. 

Fiorelli's had a mechanical issue with his back wheel wobbling all over the place. He's happy to continue riding with it as the Shimano neutral service car is no use for his Campagnolo components.

This accidental sprinter's breakaway has kicked the stage into life with Polti Kometa, Bahrain Victorious and Movistar all putting a rider towards the front of the peloton to try and bring things back together. 

Here's one of the favourites for the day Olav Kooij. He has Visma teammate Christophe Laporte with him in the front group. The gap to the 24-man break is 1:22.

Movistar are fully committed to chasing this down as are Polti Kometa with the gap now coming down gradually. Fascinating developments in the peloton. 

Van Poppel, Ewan and Milan are all alone in the front group so likely won't want this group to make it to the end as they will be without their leadouts to help position them.

Jonathan Milan powers to take the Intergiro point into Montegrosso d'Asti which also has points on offer for the ciclamino jersey. He didn't have any issues without a leadout and easily moved ahead of Merlier and Groves behind him to take the maximum haul.

Fiorelli finally gets his bike change after the sprint point and a great swap at a good moment has seen him almost instantly make it to the back of the leading group. 

Movistar and Polti Kometa are keeping up their efforts and are seeing some change in the break's advantage. The gap is now back down under the minute mark on a small uphill section of racing. 

Here's a look back at the first attackers of the day Calmejane and Ballerini. They probably regret not keeping up their efforts as they could have got ahead of this sprinters break and been in it once it went after the intermediate sprint. 

The aggressive chase in the peloton has strung out the big group. Movistar and Polti are doing some serious damage to try and bring the leading group back in. Splits are forming as riders begin to struggle. 

Uijtdebroeks is down in one of the splits in the white jersey! Things should probably come back together but it is absolutely full gas for the moment. 

The chase is still on for Movistar and Polti with just 30 seconds separating them from the breakaway. Gaps are only getting bigger behind now with an infernal pace still being set.

Pogačar has been sitting calmly in the pink jersey towards the front of the peloton. As long as he stays safe he'll be happy especially with how much the action has kicked off. 

Movistar, Bahrain-Victorious and Polti Kometa do seem to be faltering in their chase efforts. The advantage to the group of sprinters out in front has stabilised to around 30 seconds with the second group containing Uijtdebroeks and Lutsenko now at one minute from the leaders.

Now the break itself is breaking up! Alpecin-Deceuninck are still trying to kick on with what is left of the peloton closing in.

Visma have a done a good job of damage limitation as the second chasing group nears the leading remnants of the peloton. Uijtdebroeks' GC hopes will live to fight another day. 

Finally everything is more or less back together with those out in front knocking off their efforts after an all out 40 kilometres of racing en route to Fossano.

We're back in colour order in the peloton with the teams now getting themselves ready and into position ahead of the final run to the finish. The pace should naturally start to increase as that front spot becomes more desirable.

Here's a look inside that sprinters' breakaway that has just been reeled in. Laporte and Trentin both showed good legs but will need to recover ahead of the finish before they work for Kooij and Dainese respectively at the finish. 

DSM-Firmenich PostNL and Ineos Grenadiers are bookending the peloton for now with both the sprint teams and GC teams interested in staying safe on what is sure to be a hectic run in. 

There are reports of rain falling at the finish in Fossano.

The peloton is closing in on the next intermediate sprint in Cherasco. If you recognise the name, it may be from Mark Cavendish taking a win here at the 2013 Giro d'Italia. This was his fourth of five wins from that Grand Tour en route to winning the points jersey which was still red at the time before being revived as the maglia ciclamino in 2017 for the 100th edition of the corsa rosa.

Here's another look at the top sprinters and fast men to look out for during today's finish: - Olav Kooij and Christophe Laporte (Visma-Lease a Bike) - Jonathan Milan (Lidl-Trek) - Tim Merlier (Soudal-QuickStep) - Caleb Ewan (Jayco AlUla) - Fabio Jakobsen and Tobias Lund Andresen (DSM-Firmenich PostNL) - Alberto Dainese and Matteo Trentin (Tudor) - Kaden Groves and Timo Kielich (Alpecin-Deceuninck) - Phil Bauhaus (Bahrain-Victorious) - Danny van Poppel (Bora-Hansgrohe) - Juan Sebastián Molano (UAE Team Emirates) - Laurence Pithie (Groupama-FDJ) - Biniam Girmay (Intermarché Wanty) - Filippo Ganna (Ineos Grenadiers)

There are bonus seconds available on this uphill rise up to the Cherasco intermediate sprint so we may see some cheeky GC moves here.

Ben Swift takes three bonus seconds, Pogačar two and Thomas the remaining single point.

GC games likely done for the day and Pogačar extends his lead on the rest of the competition (except for ben Swift). 

Simon Carr has unfortunately abandoned the Giro d'Italia but there is no information as to why yet so look out for updates. 

The road has started to gradually go uphill in places as we close in on the finish. How will the legs be after that full gas 45 minutes of racing earlier in the day?

Spots of rain on the cameras, umbrellas in the crowds, the rain looks like it isn't going to stay away on stage 3.

The tension seems to be rising in anticipation of this hectic finale. Hopefully everyone can stay safe in the rain. 

The peloton is closing in on a small incline in the road which then plateaus before descending down with 9km to go. Teams will have to be in front when that descent starts if they want ideal placement before the run into Fossano. 

Leadout riders have started to struggle and drop out the back as the pace begins to ramp up. This is going to be quite the final 10 kilometres. 

Here's why the positioning is so important for today's finale. A look at a map of the final 5km shows the switchbacks in the road inside 4km to go. After navigating these, a crucial left hand turn with 1300 metres will test the riders positioning before the long, straight run to the line in Fossano. 

Ineos Grenadiers have moved up on the left hand side of the peloton to try and keep Geraint Thomas' GC hopes safe in the final. The GC riders are aiming for the safety point of 3km to go which is at the crest of that final climb.

We're up to 60kph in the peloton now on this downhill section that I spoke about. These next few kilometres are vital for both the stage win and anyone trying to arrive with their GC ambitions unscathed. 

This portion of descending is clearly on damp roads and it is starting to narrow. Pogačar and UAE aren't too organised for now and will need to do some work to ensure the Slovenian is in the ideal spot to stay safe. 

They are closing in on Fossano now and can see the uphill road in the distance. FDJ, Alpecin and Ineos are the best-positioned teams for now at the head of the racing. The leading group is thinning out massively after a surprisingly brutal day.

Ineos are doing the best job for now through Ben Swift with three riders leading the peloton. Pogačar is sat further down in the pink jersey and he isn't too well looked after with his team split throughout the peloton.

Thomas is doing a near full effort to stay safe with the GC riders all together on one side and the sprinters' teams on the other.

Onto the final climb we go!

Arensman and Thomas lead, Trek are now moving up Milan. No one is attacking and it is status quo for now for the sprinters. 

Its the GC riders at the front but once we pass 3km to go, the sprint battle is going to explode even further into life.

Attack by EF Education EasyPost and Pogačar follows! Thomas is forced to respond to the race leader.

The trio have got away and Alpecin are scrambling to try and close the gap so this can come down to a sprint. Its Honoré, Pogačar and Thomas in the lead.

Pogačar kicks on! Of course he does. Only Thomas can follow as Honoré fades into the group of sprinters. A sprint day has exploded into GC life.

Lidl-Trek are doing everything to bring it back as the duo go through the final corner. Its 1200 metres to go!

Thomas pulls through as Pogačar flicks the elbow. They aren't caught yet as behind the sprinters launch their final leadouts.

Will they be caught, final few hundred metres now!

Here come Lidl-Trek and Tudor. Pogačar sprints in pink but he is caught.

Milan comes through as does Merlier. Its a blanket finish but the Belgian looks like he has it in a breathtaking finale.

Stage Finish

The finish line camera shows it is Merlier just from Milan. Tim Merlier (Soudal-QuickStep) wins stage 3 of the Giro d'Italia!

That was far from easy as Merlier looks absolutely exhausted past the line. It was Andresen who hit the front first, Dainese, Vernon and Milan were all there but in the end, Merlier had enough in the tank to just outlast the rest to the line in Fossano. 

Biniam Girmay (Intermarché Wanty) takes third behind Merlier and Milan with Jenthe Biermans (Arkéa-B&B Hotels) taking a nice fourth-place finish.

Here's what Geraint Thomas had to say after his exhilarating attack with Pogačar in the final 4km: "It wasn't the plan, we just wanted to stay well out of trouble. The boys were incredible really, set me up great. We were hoping Pippo [Ganna] and Jonny [Narváes] would be with me but they lost the wheel a bit somewhere along the way," said the Welshman. "Then Thymen set a great pace then I saw Honnore and Pog go and then I was like 'might as well just go' but jeepers man that was solid, he was kicking my head in. "I just told him I was quite tired in a few less words. I was just trying to hold his wheel and tried to give him a turn... But it was solid, we were going."

Here is Tim Merlier's crowning moment from stage 3 of the Giro. It is his second win at the Giro and very well deserved on his return to Grand Tour racing after missing out in 2023.

Here's what Merlier had to say after his second Giro d'Italia stage win: "It was the hardest victory so far. It was a really hard final, we caught them back but in the lat kilometre I never found the slipstream anymore so I was always in the wind and i saw 300 metres and was like 'you need to go'. "I saw Milan was starting his sprint on the left side and I knew I was going to be first or second and I'm happy I won this one. "Maybe we could have chose to pace on the last hill and I wanted to move with Bert [Van Lerberghe] but he waited a bit longer than I want. But in the end, it was a good situation: Mauri Vansevenant was there, Julian Alaphilippe was there, Luke Lamperti was there, Bert was there. They all did a great job."

Here's what Pogačar had to say after the finale, adamant that he did not in actual fact attack: "I did not attack, I followed the wheel," he repeated twice. "It was a good situation, me Mikkel Honoré and Thomas, G. We tried to keep on going but I never believed we could make it to the finish. G tried to pull as well in the end which surprised me so respect. In the end, I tried but 400 metres to the finish is still a long way to go, way too long. "I had good legs and this kind of terrain is good and when its a bit like a game like back in the day with your friends when you attack each other on the flat and small climbs, this suits me good." Pogačar then perfectly broke down an intriguing day at the Giro d'Italia which was supposed to be a relatively straight forward sprint stage. "Little bit complicated but not too much. We can break it down in three sections: first two hours were really easy and nothing happened, then one hour was just full gas from each corner, downhill, little climb was full full," he said. "It was a little bit of chaos then everything came back together and it was a little bit stressful, not too much craziness but you could feel the tension. Then in the final it was stretching the legs."

Make sure to read our full stage report from another thrilling day of racing at the Giro d'Italia: Giro d'Italia: Tim Merlier claims first sprint stage as Pogačar's late attack fails

Giro d'Italia stage 3 full top ten from Novara to Fossano:

1 - Tim Merlier (Soudal-QuickStep)

2 - Jonathan Milan (Lidl-Trek)

3 - Biniam Girmay (intermarché Wanty)

4 - Jenthe Biermans (Arkéa-B&B Hotels)

5 - Tobias Lund Andresen (DSM-Firmenich PostNL)

6 - Olav Kooij (Visma-Lease a Bike)

7 - Ethan Vernon (Israel Premier Tech)

8 - Stanisław Aniołkowski (Cofidis)

9 - Fernando Gaviria (Movistar)

10 - Alberto Dainese (Tudor)

He may have been caught before the line but Pogačar of course maintains his lead in the overall GC. The Slovenian has a 46-second lead on Thomas heading into stage 4. Tomorrow's stage from Acqui Terme to Andora - not to be confused with Andorra - is another possible chance for the fast men to stretch their legs. It features one long category three climb in the opening half of the stage before the much flatter run for home takes in one Milan-San Remo's famous climbs, the Capo Mele just before the finish. Can Merlier double up or will it be another sprinter's day? 

That wraps up our live coverage of stage 3 of the Giro d'Italia but look out for news from the race coming out from our team on the ground in Italy and come back tomorrow for more exhilarating action.

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10 Best Things You Should Do In Sorrento, Italy

S orrento, situated on the southern coast of Italy, is a sought-after destination for tourists who are looking for scenic beauty, sunny beaches, and a charming ambiance. With its lemon groves, old town, picturesque harbor, and lovely beaches, Sorrento has a lot to offer. Many travelers might have an idea of the best things to do in Italy , but what about Sorrento, exactly? To assist in planning travelers' itineraries, here is a list of the best things to do in Sorrento, Italy. From relaxing activities to adventurous ones, cultural sites, and delectable cuisine, Sorrento is a vibrant and enchanting town with something for everyone.

Visit Villa Comunale Park

Villa Comunale is a public park situated in the charming coastal town of Sorrento in southern Italy. It is located along the seafront, providing visitors with breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. Spanning across an area of approximately 26,000 square meters, the park is adorned with a lush green landscape, colorful flowers, and various trees, such as palm and citrus trees. The park is equipped with several walking paths, fountains, and benches, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely walk or picnic. There is also a children's playground, a small theater, and a terrace café serving refreshments with stunning views of the bay.

• Villa Comunale : a public park with panoramic views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius

Visit The Cathedral Of Sorrento

The Cathedral of Sorrento , also referred to as the Cathedral of Saints Philip and James, is a Catholic church situated in the historical center of Sorrento, Italy. It's one of the top attractions in Sorrento and among its most historic. Its initial construction dates back to the 11th century; however, throughout the years, it underwent various reconstructions and extensions, resulting in a blend of architectural styles.

The cathedral's exterior showcases an amalgamation of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance elements, while the interior is embellished with splendid frescoes, paintings, and sculptures. Visitors can also marvel at the impressive marble altar from the 16th century, the intricately carved wooden choir stalls, and the ornate baptismal font.

• Cathedral of Sorrento : a Catholic church that dates back to the 11th century

Visit The Cloister Of San Francesco

Located in the heart of Sorrento, Italy, the Cloister of San Francesco is a serene and lovely area. It is a part of the complex that includes the Church of San Francesco and the Convent of San Francesco, which dates back to the 14th century. The cloister is composed of a central courtyard that is surrounded by arches and columns, with a stunning garden at the center.

Visitors can appreciate the complex frescoes and detailed stonework that embellish the columns and arches, as well as the gorgeous majolica tiles that cover the floors.

• Cloister of San Francesco: includes the Church of San Francesco and the Convent of San Francesco

Take A Boat Tour Along The Amalfi Coast

Situated along the Tyrrhenian Sea, the Amalfi Coast is a breathtaking coastal region in southern Italy. Its rugged cliffs, vibrant houses perched on the hillsides, and sparkling blue waters are among the highlights of this picturesque area. Sorrento isn't actually on the Amalfi Coast; however, many tourists take Amalfi Coast tours from Sorrento, as numerous operators provide this excursion.

The Amalfi Coast comprises several charming villages and towns, such as Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, each with distinct character and offerings.

• Amalfi Coast Tour from Sorrento: Amalfi Coast Tours from Sorrento are available to book through Viator
• Price: Starting from $82

The Amalfi Coast is also fantastic for road trips. Travelers can relish scenic drives along the winding coastal roads, savor the delicious local cuisine, explore quaint fishing villages, and soak up the sun on sandy beaches. The Amalfi Coast is a destination that offers an unforgettable and memorable experience for all who visit.

Related: 14 Most Beautiful Towns In Italy (That Aren't The Amalfi Coast)

Taste The Famous Limoncello Liqueur

Limoncello liqueur is an Italian specialty beverage that is prepared using lemon zest, water, sugar, and alcohol. This beverage is a well-known and well-liked drink in Italy, primarily in the southern areas, where it is frequently served as a digestive at the end of meals. Having Limoncello liqueur after a hearty meal is definitely the best way to complement the best culinary tours in Italy , whether in Sorrento or elsewhere.

• Limoncello liqueur : prepared using lemon zest, water, sugar, and alcohol

Related: How To Eat In Italy Like A Local: 10 Things You Need To Know

Explore The Nearby Town Of Massa Lubrense

Situated at the western end of the Gulf of Naples, Massa Lubrense is a picturesque coastal town in southern Italy renowned for its stunning scenery, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back ambiance. It's a great stop for anyone planning a road trip through Italy . With a history dating back to ancient times, the town boasts a wealth of cultural attractions such as ancient ruins, museums, and churches that offer visitors a glimpse into its rich heritage.

Additionally, Massa Lubrense is famed for its delectable cuisine, which showcases fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and traditional dishes. Travelers can indulge in these culinary delights at numerous restaurants and cafes, or at the weekly food market, where local vendors showcase their homemade products.

• Massa Lubrense : a picturesque coastal town

Related: 15 Most Romantic Places To Visit In Italy

Go Snorkeling At Punta Campanella Nature Reserve

The Nature Reserve of Punta Campanella is an area of protected land situated at the southernmost tip of the Sorrento Peninsula in southern Italy, nestled between the Gulf of Naples and the Gulf of Salerno. Encompassing approximately 40 square kilometers, the reserve boasts an array of striking landscapes, including craggy cliffs, verdant Mediterranean flora, and crystalline waters.

Punta Campanella is teeming with an abundance of unique plant and animal species, some of which are endangered or rare. Visitors can revel in the area's breathtaking scenery while traversing the many trails that meander through the reserve, offering magnificent panoramas of the coastline, mountains, and islands. The reserve is also a coveted destination for water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving, as it boasts a plethora of secluded bays and underwater grottos to explore. While this might not be one of the best places for beginner scuba divers , it will definitely be a memorable experience.

• Punta Campanella Nature Reserve: an area of protected land that offers water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving

Take A Day Trip To The Beautiful Island Of Capri

Capri, an island in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the southern coast of Italy, is known for its exquisite natural scenery, historical landmarks, and chic ambiance. Situated in the Campania region near the Bay of Naples, the island has been a favored tourist destination for centuries, drawing the likes of Roman emperors, artists, writers, and celebrities.

Among its most famous attractions is the Blue Grotto, a sea cave renowned for its brilliant blue waters, which visitors can explore via boat tours of the island's coastal sights. Blue Grotto in Capri is one of the must-see natural wonders in Italy .

• Capri: an Italian island known for its exquisite natural scenery, historical landmarks, and chic ambiance

Visit The Basilica Di Sant'Antonino

Basilica di Sant'Antonino is an ancient Roman Catholic church situated in the historic district of Sorrento, Italy. It is devoted to the city's patron saint, Saint Antoninus of Sorrento, and has been renovated numerous times since its establishment in the 10th century. The basilica's exterior is unadorned, featuring a modest brick facade and a compact bell tower.

Meanwhile, inside, visitors can marvel at the elaborate Baroque-style altar adorned with detailed sculptures and gilded with gold leaf, in addition to various magnificent frescoes and paintings.

• Basilica di Sant'Antonino : an ancient Roman Catholic church

Visit The Museo Correale Di Terranova

The Correale di Terranova Museum is situated in Sorrento, Italy, and was established in the 1800s by two brothers named Alfredo and Pompeo Correale, who were avid art and antique collectors. The museum is located in a neoclassical edifice that once served as the family's house and boasts a vast array of decorative arts, paintings, and archeological discoveries from southern Italy, particularly the Sorrento Peninsula.

• Museo Correale di Terranova : a museum that displays decorative arts, paintings, and archeological discoveries from southern Italy

Money latest: Mortgage rates could go lower than expected, BoE hints; 'era of cheap food over,' says supermarket boss

The Bank of England has hinted a base rate cut is coming, and it's "not ruled out in June". Read all today's personal finance and consumer news - and listen to the latest Ian King Business Podcast below.

Thursday 9 May 2024 20:27, UK

• Interest Rates
• Interest rate held at 5.25% | June rate cut 'not ruled out but not fait accompli' - BoE | Cuts may take interest rate 'lower than currently priced into market'
• Supermarket boss declares end of the 'cheap food era'
• Gordon Ramsay to open new restaurants on London skyscraper

Essential reads

• Ed Conway on interest rates : Waiting game almost over - but Bank needs to be bold to jump US
• 10 cheapest popular destinations in Europe - and how costs compare
• The top-paying savings account on the market right now
• Iconic tea brand enlists Top Boy star for £12m ad to revive fortunes - but poll suggests Britons prefer rival
• Cheap Eats : Chef at Tom Kerridge pub picks Buckinghamshire spot
• Listen to the Daily above and  tap here to follow wherever you get your podcasts

Looking for some longer Money reads for your evening/commute/lunch break?

Here's four from the last few months you might like...

Should you offer kids cash rewards for good grades? The psychologist's view

As exam season gets under way, some parents are putting hundreds of pounds aside to reward their children if they achieve certain grades. 

While some parents lambasted the idea as "absolute potatoes", others told Sky News they saw their children's focus increase after offering up to £250 for the top results.

We also spoke to teachers and a psychologist...

What can I do if flexible working request declined?

Every Monday we put your financial dilemmas or consumer disputes to industry experts. A few weeks ago Sky News reader AJ2024 asked...

"While on maternity leave my employer rejected my flexible work request and told me to pick from four new shift patterns or take redundancy if they didn't suit me. All new shifts were full working hours. No support as a new mother and ruined my last few precious weeks. What are my rights?"

We got an employment lawyer to answer...

'£2,000 landed in my account' - The people who say they're manifesting riches

Money blogger Jess Sharp spoke to people who swear they've made money from manifestation - before finding herself meditating under a tree to see if she could get in on the action...

The world of dark tourism - what is it, is it ethical, and where can you go?

Interest in a phenomenon known as "dark tourism" has been steadily rising in recent years - but what is it?

To find out, we spoke with tourism academic  Dr Hayley Stainton  and renowned dark tourist and author Dr Peter Hohenhaus, who runs a  dark tourism website ...

Fraud is "rife" on second hand marketplaces including Depop, Shpock and Preloved, according to a new survey by Which?.

The consumer magazine/website found that, of 1,300 buyers, 32% had been scammed on a second hand marketplace in the two years to January.

The most common ruse involved consumers receiving incorrect goods or nothing at all, while others were delivered an empty package or fake goods.

57% of those surveyed said they had experienced a scam on Depop.

This compares with 53% for Shpock and 51% for Preloved and Nextdoor. 

Amazon Marketplace came in at 35%, while for Gumtree and eBay the figures were both 29%. 

The number for Facebook and Vinted was 24% and 22%, respectively.

Rocio Concha, Which? director of policy and advocacy, said the survey’s findings were "worrying". 

"It's important that people properly check the seller's reviews and profile," she said, adding that marketplaces need to have proper checks in place and ensure that scam profiles are removed quickly.

Depop told the Guardian it offered protection for buyers and sellers and was investing in new technology. 

"We strongly encourage consumers who are buying and selling anywhere online never to share personal information with other users, to be very wary about following links to other sites, and to report any suspicious behaviour via in-app reporting systems."

Sky News has reached out to the other companies mentioned.

You may remember our coverage here a few weeks back on the proliferation of scams targeting Taylor Swift fans hoping to buy tickets to see one of her current run of shows across Europe...

The Shake It Off star will hold a series of concerts in the UK as she continues her Eras tour, with the first taking place in Edinburgh on 7 June.

But the artist's megastardom has seen a huge demand for tickets, which were not cheap even before they sold out within minutes - with prices ranging from £58.65 - £194.75.

Resale prices from legitimate websites have been in the region of £700 each - with some fans reported to have spent well in excess of that to see their hero.

However, such is her popularity among an army of mostly young female devotees that the market has become a target for people seeking to exploit the widespread desperation for tickets.

As reported here, a spate of attempts had seen Facebook users' accounts hacked by scammers, who would then create seemingly genuine posts in groups on the site that the users were members of.

Initially, the posts would suggest the user was seeking to sell tickets - generally four - that were invariably just a few rows from the front of a specific venue for one of Swift's UK shows.

The price suggested in the posts was generally around £180, more expensive than the face value of most tickets, but a fraction of the cost of those being advertised on legitimate resale sites - especially for such desirable seating.

More recent instances indicate the methods being employed by scammers have since evolved and, it appears, become significantly more sophisticated.

In these more recent attempts to defraud so-called Swifties (and in many cases, the parents purchasing the tickets), the posts detail the specific rows and seat numbers.

A further departure from the previous efforts is the scammers no longer including the asking price for the (non-existent) tickets.

Both these changes were evident in one attempt Sky News has become aware of - as was another and decidedly sinister tactic.

In this case, given the number of previous scams that have flooded Facebook, the admin for the group in question first removed the post - correctly assuming it was fraudulent.

But, he told Sky News, he was subsequently sent a photo of what appeared to be the user's passport as a means of verifying her post was genuine.

This development indicates the scammer in question had used some form of photo-editing software to create an image that appeared to be of the user's passport.

"I contacted her to explain that I had deleted her post and removed her account from the group as there are so many scams around, and I could not verify their identity or the validity of the ticket offer," said Trevor Williams, who runs the local community Facebook group in Birmingham.

"Within a few minutes, I received a photo of a passport in this name and an assurance that she was genuine.

"This was enough to change my decision and the post was put it back on the group.

"Most people have no idea of the problems of being an admin on these groups, as you simply cannot win."

How can you protect yourself against these scams?

For those looking to buy resale tickets, the main advice is to simply avoid being tempted into seemingly genuine offers posted on Facebook, unless it is from someone you know and have spoken to directly (and not just over Facebook).

Those looking to sell on their tickets will invariably use the established and legitimate resale sites such as Viagogo or StubHub.

Perhaps the most useful piece of advice is an old one - if it looks too good to be true, it probably is.

In terms of protecting yourself against your account on Facebook (or any social media site) being hacked by scammers, the best measure is to ensure you have enabled two-step or two-factor authentication.

This can be found through the security and privacy settings on your Facebook account, and involves the use of your telephone number or a separate authentication app on your phone whenever someone attempts to log in.

TV chef Gordon Ramsay has announced he will open new restaurants and a cooking academy in one of London's tallest skyscrapers. 

The 60th floor of 22 Bishopsgate will have a 14-seat chef's table experience - run by the team from the chef's three-Michelin-starred Chelsea restaurant, Restaurant Gordon Ramsay.

In addition, Lucky Cat restaurant, a Lucky Cat terrace bar and a Bread Street Kitchen will open on the 59th floor.

Finally, he'll be opening a cooking academy in the building, The Gordon Ramsay Academy. 

Mr Ramsay said: "This is more than just a new opening - it's a significant milestone for our business. 

"We're not only launching the highest culinary experiences in London, but also creating a vibrant culinary hub at the incredible 22 Bishopsgate."

City editor Mark Kleinman   has revealed that high street billionaire Mike Ashley is closing in on a deal to become the new British partner of struggling fashion chain Ted Baker.

He learnt that Frasers Group had emerged as the preferred partner for the chain following the collapse of No Ordinary Designer Label (NODL), Ted Baker's existing UK licensing partner.

It is hoped a deal could be agreed over the coming days - read more on this story here ...

Eating ultra-processed meat is linked to an increased risk of early death.

A Harvard study over 30 years tracked more than 114,000 adults.

The highest risks were linked with the most processed meats such as sausages and ham. 

Regular eaters had a 13% higher chance of dying over the 34 years tracked.

Diets high in sugary and artificially sweetened drinks had a 9% increased risk, the study found.

The used car market increased by 6.5% in the first quarter of the year , with sales of over 1.9 million vehicles, new figures show.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) says the total reveals the strongest start to a year since pre-pandemic 2019.

Sales of used hybrids also increased.

That's all from an enlightening news conference in which we heard an interest rate cut in June hadn't been ruled out - and that rates could fall more than markets expect. 

Scroll through to read and watch some of the key moments - meantime, we'll return to general money and consumer news.

We're now hearing the final questions of this news conference. 

The governor of the Bank of England is asked if August is more likely than June to see the Monetary Policy Committee cut interest rates. 

"Nice try to introduce the 'is it June' question again," Andrew Bailey says with a smile.

"We're going meeting by meeting," he adds, stressing that more data [which will be at the MPC's disposal over the coming months] will allow them more visibility and more scope to make a decision."

Our  economics editor Ed Conway  is next to ask the governor a question.

He asks whether increasing government interest in the Bank's workings has any influence on an interest rate cut.

"We [the Monetary Policy Committee] never discuss politics," Andrew Bailey replies. 

"We are an independent central bank, we have a remit and it is our duty to exercise that remit at all times."

"Our remit applies at all times, so it [politics] isn't a consideration."

Asked if inflation dynamics in the UK are different to the US, Andrew Bailey says there is no law that says the US moves first on interest rate cuts and everyone else afterwards.

"There is no law," he says.

"Moreover, we have a remit and target which is related to domestic inflation in the UK.

"We're an open economy so we take the rest of the world into consideration 

"But there is no law to say we can only move once the Federal Reserve (central bank of the US) moves."

There is a feeling among economists that, although the US often leads, the European Central Bank may be the first to move with an early June cut.

This could, it has been suggested, push the UK to cut on 20 June.

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