How to plan a trip to Italy on your own

From the fashion-forward streets of Milan to the sunbaked villages of Puglia, Italy packs in more variety than most countries twice its size. Figuring out how to plan a trip to Italy can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s my guide to making planning a trip as easy as possible.

How to plan a first-time trip to Italy?

Planning your first trip to Italy can feel overwhelming, given the country’s long history and all the must-see spots. You’ll never be able to see everything in one trip, and that’s okay. Focus on quality experiences, not quantity.

I recommend spreading out your planning over several months, alternating between researching destinations and actually booking things. It’s a long process, so take your time with it. If you’re planning with others, using a shared Google Doc or WhatsApp group is an easy way to keep track of ideas and decisions. Planning a trip to Italy can be much easier when you have a team helping out.

Step 1: define your trip's parameters

When to do this: 6 months or more before your trip

Figuring out some basic parameters early on is key when it comes to how to plan a trip to Italy. These first decisions, like how long you’ll stay, which regions you want to visit, and how you’ll get around, shape the rest of your trip.

Set clear priorities from the start. You’ll build a realistic, enjoyable itinerary that stays within budget and gives you enough breathing room. Skip this step, and you risk cramming too much into too little time. Italy isn’t meant to be rushed.

Decisions to make:

• When to go?
• What is the best month?
• What to spend?
• How many days are enough?
• North or South?
• How do you survive a flight more easily?
• Do I need a visa?

When’s the best time to visit Italy?

Italy’s travel seasons vary a lot, so when you go can shape your entire trip. Here’s what to expect:

• High season (June to August): Hot weather, big crowds, and high prices. Major sights are packed, and beach towns are full to the brim.
• Low season (November to March): Fewer tourists and lower costs. But in many small towns, museums, restaurants, and hotels may be closed or have limited hours.
• Shoulder seasons (April to June and September to October): This is the best time to visit Italy for most people. You get mild weather, open attractions, and fewer crowds than in summer.

What’s the best month to visit Italy?

For me, September is the best month to visit Italy. The summer crowds have thinned, the weather is still warm (about 75°F/24°C), and it’s harvest season in regions like Tuscany and Piedmont, so you’ll find local festivals and events.

Hotels often lower their rates after the summer rush, and the Mediterranean is still warm enough for swimming. Plus, some of the best beaches are much quieter than in peak summer.

How much does a trip to Italy usually cost?

Italy can fit a variety of budgets, depending on where you go and how you plan to travel. Cities like Rome are usually more affordable, while places like Milan can be a bit more expensive. Here’s a rough idea of what you might spend:

• Italy on a budget (€100-150 / $110-160 per day): This includes staying in hostels, eating at local restaurants, and getting around by public transport. If you're trying to keep things on the cheaper side, this budget works pretty well.
• Mid-range (€150-250 / $160-270 per day): This will cover staying in 3-star hotels, dining at nice restaurants, and maybe doing a tour or two. It’s a good middle ground, likely what most people will spend.
• Luxury (€400+ / $430+ per day): If you’re looking to go all out, this budget will cover 4-5 star hotels, fancy meals, and private tours. It’s perfect for a more luxurious experience.

How many days are enough for Italy?

Building the perfect Italy itinerary depends on how much time you've got, and how much pasta you plan to eat. Rushing it misses the point. Italy rewards slow travel, long lunches, and time to get lost down cobbled backstreets. Here's how to make it work:

• 5 days in Italy: Enough for two cities, like Rome and Florence or Venice and Milan. Keep it tight and skip the day trips.
• 7 days in Italy: Add a third stop or take it slower. This is great for combining cities with one countryside escape, like a day in Chianti or Lake Como.
• 10 days in Italy: A well-paced itinerary with time to hit the classics: Rome, Florence, Tuscany, and maybe a few days on the Amalfi Coast.
• 14 days in Italy: Now you're talking. Explore 3-4 regions without rushing. You can mix iconic cities with smaller towns, coastlines, and countryside.

If it’s your first trip, aim for 10 to 14 days. That gives you space to enjoy a proper Rome itinerary filled with ancient ruins, wander through vineyards in Tuscany, and finish with lazy beach days on the Amalfi Coast.

And remember, Italians live by il dolce far niente: the sweetness of doing nothing. So build in time to sit, sip, and watch the world go by. You won’t regret it.

Should I plan my trip for North Italy or South Italy?

This might not be what you want to hear if you're short on time, but both parts of the country are worth it.

• A North Italy itinerary gives you buzzing cities like Milan and Venice, world-class art, and easy access to the Alps and the lakes. It's ideal if you're into culture, architecture, or hiking in the Dolomites before diving into risotto in a stylish trattoria.
• A South Italy itinerary leans into the slow life. Think sun-drenched beaches, hilltop villages, seafood feasts, and a pace that practically dares you to relax. Naples, the Amalfi Coast, Puglia, and Sicily all bring something different to the table.

If you can, do both. If not, pick based on your vibe: stylish cities and mountain air up north, or coastal towns and warm evenings down south. Either way, you’ll eat well.

Don’t forget jetlag!

Italy is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time and 9 hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time, so if you’re flying in from the U.S., you’ll likely arrive in the morning after a long flight.

My best Italy travel tip: it’s hard, but if you can, don’t nap right away. It’s tempting, but try to stay awake for a while, maybe take a gentle walking tour or just chill at a café. It’ll help you adjust to the time zone.

Also, don't overload the first few days of the itinerary. Even the most experienced travelers need time to adapt.

Do I need a visa to visit Italy?

If you’re a U.S. citizen, you don’t need a visa for trips of up to 90 days for tourism or business. However, starting in 2025, U.S. travelers will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System), which is basically an online form to fill out before you travel. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your trip.

If you’re a non-U.S. citizen, visa requirements depend on your nationality. It’s best to check with your local Italian embassy ahead of time since processing can take a few weeks. And make sure to bring proof of your return ticket and enough funds for your stay when you arrive.

Step 2: Start planning your Italy itinerary

When to do this: 5 months before

The first step here is to create a wish list of everything that interests you about Italy, both places (like cities) and experiences (like cooking classes).

If planning a vacation in a group, it can help to have each person list their top three must-see spots and the things that would be nice to do if you have time. 

I recommend setting up a custom Google Map where you can pin all the places you want to visit. It’ll help you see where everything is and plan your route accordingly.

Decisions to make:

• How to get around Italy?
• How many days should you spend in one place?
• What are the best cities in Italy?
• What are the best Italian lakes?
• What are the best beaches in Italy?
• What are the best mountains in Italy?
• What are the best hidden gems in Italy?

How to get around Italy

With a well-connected transportation system with plenty of options, getting around Italy is pretty easy. The high-speed trains, like Frecciarossa and Frecciabianca, connect major cities quickly: Rome to Florence, for example, only takes about 1.5 hours. Regional trains are slower but more scenic and can be a better option for shorter trips.

You can book tickets through Trenitalia or Italo (a private operator). Booking ahead can save you up to 60% on fares, so it’s worth planning in advance. If you're taking a lot of long-distance trips, a rail pass might be a good idea. 

Can I drive in Italy?

Renting a car in Italy gives you the flexibility to explore smaller towns and rural areas. However, you’ll need an International Driving Permit along with your regular license. Keep in mind that city centers usually have restricted traffic zones (ZTL - Zona Traffico Limitato), and driving through them can lead to hefty fines. Parking in cities can also be tricky and expensive.

That said, renting a car is great if you’re planning to visit places like Tuscany, Umbria, or the Dolomites. Just remember that Italian drivers tend to be a bit more assertive, gas is pricey, and most cars have a manual transmission.

How many days should you spend in one place?

It’s best not to rush through your trip. Italy is all about taking the time to find those hidden gems. Many people prefer staying in one place for a few days and taking day trips, rather than moving from hotel to hotel constantly.

At the very least, you’ll probably want to spend 2-3 days in each place to really enjoy it.

What are the best cities in Italy?

Italy is known for having some of the most beautiful cities in the world. Here’s a non-exhaustive list of some of the best places to go if you are planning a trip to Italy for the first time.

• Rome (Roma): Rome is a mix of ancient history and modern life. Beyond the Colosseum and Vatican, neighborhoods like Trastevere and the Jewish Ghetto have a lot of charm. If you want a peaceful moment, visit the Trevi Fountain early in the morning before the crowds arrive. That’s not even mentioning the hidden gems of Rome.
• Florence (Firenze): Florence is the heart of the Renaissance and an absolute must for art lovers. The city center is small and walkable, and the hills around it offer some amazing views. Make sure to visit the Oltrarno neighborhood for a more local vibe and artisan workshops.
• Venice (Venezia): Venice is famous for its canals, but there’s a lot more to the city. Take the time to explore its quiet side streets and visit islands like Burano and Torcello. Venice feels especially magical at night, when the day-trippers head home.
• Milan (Milano): Milan is Italy’s fashion and business hub, but it also has a lot to offer in terms of culture. See The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci and check out the stunning cathedral. In the evening, head to the Navigli district for an aperitivo and enjoy the local food scene.
• Bologna: Bologna is often overlooked, but it’s definitely worth a visit. With Italy’s oldest university, medieval towers, and one of the best food scenes in the country, there’s plenty to explore. The porticoed streets make it easy to wander around, rain or shine.
• Pisa: Pisa is famous for the Leaning Tower, but there’s so much more to see. The whole Piazza dei Miracoli complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a beautiful cathedral, baptistery, and cemetery. If you visit early or in the evening, you’ll avoid the big crowds. Also, check out the Santa Maria della Spina, a small Gothic church by the Arno River; it’s a hidden gem.

What are the best Italian lakes?

In the Italy’s north, you’ll find what I find to be some of the most charming parts of the country: the lakes and their surrounding towns:

• Lake Como (Lombardy): This Y-shaped lake is surrounded by picturesque towns like Bellagio and Varenna. It’s known for its beautiful mountain views and lakeside villas.
• Lake Garda (Veneto/Lombardy): The largest lake in Italy, Garda has medieval castles, Roman ruins, and small resort towns. It’s great for outdoor activities and wine tasting.
• Lake Maggiore (Piedmont/Lombardy): Known for the Borromean Islands, this lake offers a quieter experience with historic palaces and gardens.
• Lake Orta (Piedmont): A small, quiet lake with the charming village of Orta San Giulio and the island of San Giulio, ideal for those looking to avoid big crowds.

What are the best beaches in Italy?

Italy has about 2,920 miles (4,700 kilometers) of coastline. Here’s a very short list of some of the best beaches in Italy.

• Spiaggia dei Conigli (Lampedusa, Sicily): A stunning beach with soft white sand and clear waters, often ranked as one of the best in the world. It's also known for being a nesting site for sea turtles.
• San Fruttuoso (Liguria): A personal favorite, this is hidden beach with a medieval abbey right on the sand, accessible only by boat or hiking.
• Cala Goloritzé (Sardinia): A scenic spot with limestone cliffs and blue waters, reachable by a hike. The journey there makes it even more rewarding.
• Baia dei Turchi (Puglia): A quiet beach near Otranto, surrounded by pine trees and clear water, perfect for relaxing.

What are the best mountains in Italy?

If you’re headed to Italy for a hiking trip, you are in the right place.

• The Dolomites (South Tyrol): Known for their distinctive limestone peaks, the Dolomites are popular for skiing in winter and hiking in summer. The region also has a unique culture and great food.
• Monte Bianco/Mont Blanc (Valle d'Aosta): The highest peak in Western Europe, offering dramatic views and challenging climbing routes.
• Gran Paradiso (Piedmont): Italy’s first national park, home to wildlife like ibex and chamois, and offers excellent hiking trails and alpine lakes.
• Monte Rosa (Piedmont/Valle d'Aosta): The second-highest peak in the Alps, perfect for hiking and climbing with views into Switzerland.

What are the best hidden gems in Italy?

Italy’s smaller towns often feel more authentic than the bigger cities. Take Civita di Bagnoregio in Lazio, for example, it sits on a volcanic plateau, only reachable by footbridge, and gives you a real sense of medieval Italy.

In Umbria, Spello is a quieter alternative to Assisi, with its Roman gates and Renaissance frescoes. Then there’s Matera in Basilicata, famous for its cave dwellings, which has earned UNESCO World Heritage status.

Bergamo, in Lombardy, is also worth checking out; it's got two distinct areas: Città Alta, the medieval old town, and Città Bassa, the more modern lower town, connected by a funicular.

Step 3: Start your booking with the basic components

When to start: at least 5 months before

Booking your main travel components early helps you spread out the cost of your trip and ensures you get the best options before they’re sold out. Popular flights and hotels tend to have flexible cancellation policies, so it’s often better to book sooner rather than later, just double-check the terms first.

At this stage, you'll want to book:

• Plane tickets/transportation
• Accommodation

How to save on plane tickets

I’d say the sweet spot for booking flights to Italy is about 4 to 6 months ahead of time. Flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays are typically cheaper.

If you’re planning to visit a few cities, consider flying into one (like Rome) and out of another (say, Venice). This way, you can avoid backtracking. Major airports in Italy include Rome Fiumicino (FCO), Milan Malpensa (MXP), and Venice Marco Polo (VCE).

Use flight trackers like Google Flights or Skyscanner; they’re great for setting up alerts that can help you snag a deal. Setting those alerts really can save you money.

How to get to Italy from the US

Direct flights to Italy depart from major hubs like New York, Chicago, Miami, Los Angeles, and Atlanta. The flight will take anywhere from 8 to 13 hours, depending on where you’re flying from.

If you don’t mind a longer trip, think about adding a stopover in a city like London, Paris, or Amsterdam. Sometimes it can lower your fare, and it gives you a chance to explore another place while you're at it. 

Where should I stay?

In the bigger cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, you'll find all kinds of accommodations, from budget to luxury. But location really matters: staying within walking distance of major attractions saves you time and money on transport. Here are some areas I recommend:

• Where to stay in Rome: Centro Storico, Trastevere, Monti 
• Where to stay in Florence: Santa Croce, Santo Spirito
• Where to stay in Venice: San Marco (a bit pricey but super convenient), Dorsoduro, Cannaregio
• Where to stay in Milan: Piazza del Duomo, Navigli, or Brera

If you're looking for something unique, Agriturismo (farm stays) could be perfect. These are working farms that offer accommodations, often in scenic areas like Tuscany, Umbria, or Sicily.

Many of them serve fresh meals made with local ingredients, and they might offer activities like cooking classes or wine tastings. This is a great way to travel sustainably.

Step 4: Start planning your activities

When to do this: at least 4 months before

One important part of how to plan a trip to Italy is knowing what to book in advance. Popular attractions fill up quickly, especially in high season. You don’t need to schedule every moment, but prebooking key experiences, like museum entries or guided tours, can save you from long lines or sold-out signs.

Leave room to be spontaneous, but lock in the big stuff early. You'll thank yourself when you’re skipping past a two-hour queue outside the Colosseum.

Decisions to make:

• What attractions need advance booking?
• What are the best vineyard tours?
• What day trips are worth taking?

What attractions need advance booking?

If any of these locations made your list, know that early booking is essential for these popular sites:

• Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel (Rome): One of the top things to do in Rome is visiting these places, but timing is everything. Book tickets for early morning or late afternoon to dodge the worst of the crowds. Entry is free on the last Sunday of each month, but expect long lines and packed halls.
• Uffizi Gallery and David at Accademia (Florence): When it comes to museums in Florence, two stand out above the rest: the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia, home to Michelangelo’s David. For a quieter experience, book the first entry slot at 8:15 AM. It’s your best shot at seeing the art without the crowds. And don’t forget: the Uffizi is closed on Mondays.
• Colosseum and Roman Forum (Rome): Your combined ticket is good for 24 hours, but if you want to see more, consider booking a guided tour that takes you into the underground areas.
• Last Supper (Milan): This is one of the essential things to do in Milan.Tickets go on sale 2-3 months ahead of time, and they sell out fast: only 30 people are allowed in every 15 minutes, so grab yours early.

What are the best vineyard tours?

Planning an Italian wine tour? You’re in luck, Italy’s wine regions are packed with character, history, and some seriously good vintages.

If your Tuscany itinerary includes Chianti (and it should), make time for Castello di Brolio. It’s one of the oldest estates in the region, with sweeping views and wines that live up to the hype. Another standout is Antinori nel Chianti Classico, a striking modern winery that still ties deeply into Tuscany’s winemaking traditions.

Further north, Piedmont is a heavyweight on any wine tour. The Barolo and Barbaresco regions are famous for bold reds, and a visit to the family-run Marchesi di Barolo gives you a real taste of what makes this area special.

For something off the usual route, head south to Sicily. The volcanic vineyards of Planeta on Mount Etna produce wines with a smoky, mineral-rich flavor you won’t find anywhere else.

What day trips are worth taking?

Having a base in the city and exploring from there is nice because you don’t have to bring all of your luggage with you. Here are some of my favorites:

• Day trips from Florence: San Gimignano, with its medieval towers, and Siena, with its historic charm, are both great day trips through the Tuscan countryside.
• Day trips from Rome: You can’t miss Pompeii’s ancient ruins or the preserved streets of Herculaneum, both offering a fascinating look at Roman life. If you’re craving coastal views, the Amalfi Coast is just a short trip away.
• Day trips from Venice: Head to Murano to check out its famous glassmaking or Burano to admire the colorful houses and lace-making tradition.
• Day trips from Milan: Villa del Balbianello on Lake Como is a beautiful spot with stunning gardens and some Hollywood film history. Take an early train to make the most of your day.

Step 5: Let’s talk food in Italy

When to do this: 3-2 months before your trip

If you’re anything like me, the very top of my list is seeing what food I can try. You could build an entire trip around taking a food tour of Italy. 

Italian cuisine is all about regional pride, and you’ll notice that each area sticks to its culinary traditions. Traditional meals are often structured in courses: antipasto (appetizers), primo (pasta or rice), secondo (meat or fish), contorno (vegetables), and dolce (dessert).

Decisions to make:

• How do I book the best restaurants?
• What is the best food in Naples?
• What is the best food in Bologna?
• What is the best food in Piedmont

How do I book the best restaurants?

For popular restaurants, especially Michelin-starred ones, booking 2-3 months ahead is crucial. I recommend using TheFork app (the Italian version) for hassle-free reservations, or you can always email the restaurant directly.

Keep in mind that Italians usually eat lunch between 1:00 and 3:00 PM and dinner from 8:00 to 10:30 PM, with many places not opening for dinner until 7:30 PM.

What is the best food in Naples?

Naples is where pizza was born, and the art of pizza-making (pizzaiuolo) is so significant it’s UNESCO-listed. True Neapolitan pizza must follow strict rules: hand-kneaded dough, cooked in a wood-fired oven at 485°C for no more than 90 seconds.

And it’s not just pizza here. Naples is also known for spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams), ragù napoletano (a rich, slow-cooked meat sauce), and mozzarella di bufala.

Where to eat in Naples?

• L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele: Dating back to 1870, this pizzeria serves just two types of pizza, marinara and margherita, and they do them to perfection. The margherita here is the definition of simplicity done right.
• Tandem Ragu: A tiny spot dedicated to Naples’ iconic ragù sauce. Their pasta al ragù, cooked for at least 8 hours, is a must-try.

What is the best food in Bologna?

Bologna is so famous for its food that it earned the nickname “La Grassa” (The Fat One). The city is known for its fresh egg pasta, a tradition dating back to the Middle Ages.

Tortellini, which are believed to be inspired by Venus’s navel, is one of Bologna’s signature dishes. And the true Bolognese ragù simmers for at least 4 hours, using beef, pancetta, and very little tomato, definitely not like the spaghetti bolognese you know from the international menu.

Where to eat in Bologna

• All'Osteria Bottega: Anthony Bourdain’s Bologna pick. Hidden away from the tourist crowds, this place serves extraordinary platters of culatello and mortadella, plus seasonal mushroom dishes during porcini season that are unforgettable.
• Trattoria Anna Maria: Watch the sfogline (pasta ladies) hand-roll pasta through the window, then enjoy their legendary tortellini in brodo. Anna Maria has been hand-making pasta since 1985.

What is the best food in Piedmont 

Piedmontese cuisine feels aristocratic yet deeply connected to the land. The House of Savoy and the region’s agricultural heritage shaped it, and it’s known for being some of the best food in the world.

Piedmont’s signature dishes include vitello tonnato (tender veal in a creamy tuna sauce) and carne cruda (raw beef dressed with olive oil and truffles). And the region’s Barolo wine, made from Nebbiolo grapes, features in many dishes, like brasato al Barolo (wine-braised beef).

Where to eat in Piedmont

• Da Renzo (Cervere): This traditional Piedmontese restaurant, run by the Beglia family since 1954, serves classics like cardoon gratin with fonduta sauce and tajarin with butter and white truffles—simple elegance.
• Centro Storico (Serralunga d'Alba): A wine bar and restaurant with over 60,000 bottles in the cellar. They serve perfect vitello tonnato and raw Fassona beef, paired with rare Barolo vintages, in a relaxed atmosphere that feels like home.

Truly, I could go on forever about the food in Italy, but if you’re wanting to read more, don’t miss our guides to the best foods in Florence, or our Foodies Trip Plan.

Step 6: The nitty-gritty details

When to do this: 3 months before at least

It’s best to start handling these tasks about three months before your trip. That gives you enough time to sort out your passport, any necessary visas, and other important bookings and documents.

Decisions to make:

• Travel insurance
• How do you stay connected?
• Other details to check

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is definitely something you’ll want for Italy. Healthcare can be expensive, and trips don’t always go as planned. Look for a policy that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. Some credit cards include basic travel insurance.

How do you stay connected?

WiFi is available in most public places in Italy, but it’s not always reliable. To stay connected, I recommend getting a local SIM card or eSIM. SIMCorner, a trusted Rough Guides partner, offers good options without the risk of high or hidden costs.

They work with top telecom providers and offer contract-free plans, so you can pause your plan when you’re not using it: super flexible and simple.

Other details to check

Check that your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date. If you need a Schengen visa, make sure you get it in time, and be sure to make copies of your important documents. Italy uses type C and F plugs (230V), so grab the right adapter if needed.

You might also want to look into museum passes like the Roma Pass or Firenze Card: they can save you money and skip-the-line access if you’re planning to visit a lot of sights.

Step 7: Get ready for take off

When to do this: one week before

Once everything’s booked, the last step in how to plan a trip to Italy is simple: get organized. Gather all your confirmations and make both digital and physical copies. It’s not glamorous, but it’ll save you stress on the road.

A shared Google Doc with your day-to-day itinerary, confirmation numbers, and addresses can be a lifesaver, especially if you're traveling with others. It keeps everything in one place and is easy to access, even offline.

Decisions to make:

• Do I need to bring cash?
• What should I pack for Italy?

Do I need to bring cash?

While cards are widely accepted, cash can still come in handy. Small restaurants, taxis, and local markets often prefer cash, so it’s a good idea to carry around €100-200 in smaller bills. For cash withdrawals, use ATMs attached to major banks instead of airport exchange counters. 

Make sure to notify your bank ahead of time, and if possible, use a bank like Charles Schwab, which reimburses international ATM fees. Some smaller towns might have fewer ATMs, so it’s worth planning ahead.

What should I pack for Italy?

If you want to blend in, Italians tend to dress smart. One thing you definitely should think about is bringing a day bag or cross-body bag that has some kind of anti-theft element. Pick-pocketing is very common, especially in places like Rome. They can be very clever! Be sure to keep your phone and wallet somewhere safe.

If you’re going to any major churches like the Vatican, you’ll want to bring something that covers your shoulders.

Always leave some space in your luggage, Italy is known for great souvenirs.

Planning a trip to Italy with seniors

Italy can be incredible at any age, but you’ll need to plan with care if you’re traveling in Italy with seniors.

Historic sites like Pompeii and Ostia Antica have uneven ground, and cities such as Rome and Florence are full of cobbled streets. That said, accessibility is improving. The Roman Forum now has a barrier-free route, and the Vatican Museums offer wheelchair rentals and step-free access.

When choosing where to stay, go central. In Rome, try the Pantheon or Piazza Navona area. In Venice, look at places near San Marco. Yes, it might cost a little more, but it saves time and energy on long walks or tricky public transport.

If you’re booking a hotel in a historic building, always check for elevator access; some only have stairs, even in big cities.

Planning a Italy family vacation with kids

Italy with kids can be a great experience, as long as you mix sightseeing with hands-on fun.

In Rome, the gladiator school is a winner. It teaches Roman history in a way kids actually enjoy, swords included. In Venice, mask-making workshops let them get creative while giving everyone a break from the crowds. Climbing the Duomo in Florence adds a sense of adventure, and exploring the catacombs in Naples brings history to life, with just the right amount of eerie.

Skip-the-line tickets are essential to avoid long waits. And if your budget allows, booking a private guide who’s good with kids can make museums and ruins way more engaging.

When it’s time to slow down, parks like Villa Borghese in Rome are ideal. You’ll find bike rentals, playgrounds, and rowboats: perfect for letting off steam while you recharge.

Planning a trip to Italy with experts

If you’re head is spinning from information, you’re not alone. Figuring out these details takes hours of research and planning.

With our tailor-made holidays, you can go on a trip custom designed for you by a local travel expert who knowns the ins and outs of the area. You’ll also have support 24/7 during your trip.