italy tour intrepid

Italy Real Food Adventure

8 days | uncover the secrets of fresh italian cuisine.

Italians are the masters of creating simple dishes that burst with flavour. Inspired by nonnas’ kitchens all over the country, this food is regional, seasonal and as fresh as possible. On this eight-day food-focused adventure through everybody’s favourite culinary hub, you’ll discover that pizza and pasta are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the diverse array of unforgettable street eats, meals and cicchetti from the postcard-perfect Venice to Rome, where medieval meets modern. Delight in local wine, fresh produce, homemade dinners and seasonal favourites in San Gimignano, Tuscany and Bologna.

Trip overview

• Stay in a traditional Tuscan farmhouse near San Gimignano, surrounded by vineyards and olive trees, and tour the grounds, indulging in tastings of their local wines and rich organic olive oil.
• Take a cooking class and watch a demonstration of how Bologna pasta is made right in the heart of this culinary namesake before sitting down to enjoy the fruits (or pasta sheets) of your labour for dinner with your host.
• Swap stories with a Roman local as you feast on seasonal dishes, homecooked for your group for dinner right in their home.
• See Italy’s iconic sights, like the canals of Venice, the romantic streets of Rome and the UNESCO World Heritage Site in San Gimignano.
• Find foodie bliss with a food tour that lets you taste all the regional highlights, like gelato, cicchetti, pasta, vinegar, cheese, seasonal fruit and veg and organic meats.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Cooperativa Coraggio. Donations help them regenerate 22 hectares of unused public land to create local jobs and produce organic food in Italy.
• The cuisine of Italy includes a lot of meat and seafood. For vegetarians and vegans, we recommend reviewing the itinerary and inclusions to ensure that you will be able to fully participate and enjoy this trip. We also have many other trips to Italy which can accommodate a range of dietary requirements.
• The primary means of transportation on this trip is by train. Trains are comfortable and all have toilets but can be quite busy. You'll have to carry your own luggage on and off the train, so make sure it doesn’t exceed our weight and size recommendations. You can find this information in the 'Packing' section of the Essential Trip Information.
• Don’t let the heat keep you from exploring the world! Summer temperatures can be extreme in many of the regions visited (over 40°C), which can be uncomfortable. It’s essential to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat and drink plenty of water. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.

Buongiorno! Welcome to Italy. Your adventure starts in the iconic city of Venice. If you arrive early, take some time to get lost in the narrow cobblestone streets and spacious piazzas, crossing the tiny bridges to find shops, markets, galleries and churches. Stroll past St Mark’s Square, the Campanile and the Doges Palace. Cross the Rialto and admire the Bridge of Sighs. You’ll have a welcome meeting tonight at 6 pm. After, head out for a welcome aperitivo – the spritz and the bellini are local favourites. Venice's distinctive culinary heritage goes back to ancient times and features rich risottos, saline baccala (salted cod) and creamy polenta. If you're hungry, follow your leader to an atmospheric restaurant for your first introduction to Venetian flavours.

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

• Venice - Welcome Aperitivo

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

It's an early start today. Walk down to the canals and watch farmers unload their produce from canal boats, ready to be sold at Venice's famous Rialto markets. This tradition is more than 1000 years old. Next, you’ll swing past the fish market, where the day’s catch might come directly from the Venetian lagoon – the enclosed bay of the Adriatic Sea. Finish with an Italian cafe alongside the market. You'll also be treated to a specialty dessert of the region – tiramisu. The afternoon is free for your own exploration. In the evening, discover the Venetian answer to tapas on a cicchetti crawl through the city's fabulous bacari (wine bars). Snacking is an important pastime in Venice, with many people stopping for cicchetti both before and after meals.

• Venice - Cicchetti tour
• Venice - Venetian Breakfast and Market Tour
• Venice - Traghetto Ride
• Venice - Doge's Palace & Bridge of Sighs - EUR30
• Peggy Guggenheim Collection - EUR17
• Venice - St Mark's Campanile - EUR12
• Venice - Accademia Gallery - EUR16
• Venice - San Giorgio Bell Tower - EUR6

If you are interested in visiting the Doge Palace, Venice, we strongly suggest planning your visit in the afternoon and pre-booking your tickets at muve.vivaticket.it/en/tour/palazzo-ducale/2478

Travel to Bologna by train this morning – this city's culinary claim to fame is significant, thanks to the ragu alla bolognese. Home of tagliatelle, mortadella and a range of other cured meats and salamis, Bologna, along with the surrounding Emilia Romagna region, is a foodie’s paradise. When you arrive, maybe wander past the beautiful old terracotta buildings and lively streets and acquaint yourself with the area. Later, you'll discover the real food of Bologna with a hands-on cooking class in the fine art of pasta-making. Feast on your handiwork over dinner with your host and your group, celebrating your new skill.

• Bologna - Pasta class
• Bologna - Eataly World - Free
• Bologna - Torre degli Asinelli Tower - EUR5

Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.

Today you’ll discover the flavours of the renowned Emilia Romagna region. Visit a factory dedicated to producing one of Italy's most coveted culinary exports – Parmigiano Reggiano. Learn how this cheese is made, and then try it for yourself. Continue to the town of Modena and visit an acetaia – a house where the family produce fine-aged Modena balsamic vinegar in the attic. You'll see how the vinegar is aged in barrels made from different woods, learn why it’s never less than 12 years old and then see the difference between the factory-made vinegar and the real stuff with a tasting. Head to a trattoria for a delicious lunch of the best local produce and farm-fresh seasonal dishes. Wash it down with a glass of Lambrusco – the town's famed sparkling red. Stroll around the town and admire the Palazzo Ducale before returning to Bologna in the late afternoon.

• Modena - Acetaia Visit
• Modena - Trattoria Lunch
• Modena - Parmigiano Reggiano cheese factory visit

Your travel time today will be approximately 1 hour.

This morning, travel to the village of Pancole in the heart of Tuscany. The region is renowned for a cuisine that celebrates simplicity and the bounty of locally grown produce in hearty, rustic dishes. Pecorino cheese, farro (an ancient grain) and artisanal cured meats like lardo di colonnata are just some of the many local ingredients you can expect to indulge in during your stay. Your accommodation is a traditional Tuscan farmhouse near the enchanting village of San Gimignano. The farmhouse is surrounded by vineyards and olive trees that the family has been producing excellent wine and olive oil from by organic methods for over fifty years. Enjoy a guided walk through the vineyards and cellars of the estate, followed by a tasting of some signature Tuscan wines and olive oils. Dinner tonight will be seasonal favourites, made with ingredients freshly harvested from the farmhouse garden beds. This could include homemade pasta, salads, finocchiona salami, crostini toscani (chicken liver pate on lightly toasted bread) and seasonal vegetables.

• Agriturismo (1 night)
• Agriturismo - Tour with wine and olive oil tasting

Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

This morning, walk along a portion of the Via Francigena – the major pilgrimage route to Rome during the Middle Ages. Explore the medieval walled town of San Gimignano – a UNESCO World Heritage Site often called the Town of Fine Towers due to the preservation of several impressive torre (tower houses) within its walls. Stop past an award-winning gelateria, where intriguing flavours like gorgonzola cheese and walnuts await your tastebuds. Spend the rest of your time exploring the walking paths around the farm or, weather permitting, relaxing by the pool, enjoying beautiful views of the Tuscan countryside.

• San Gimignano - Leader-led orientation walk
• San Gimignano - Gelateria visit
• San Gimignano - Walk a section of the Via Francigena

The walk along the Via Francigena is about 7 km (4.5 miles) and takes approximately 1.5 hours. The terrain is nice and easy, although you can elect to take a taxi to San Gimignano if preferred (at own cost).

Today, jump on a train to Rome – Italy’s capital famed for its deliciously fresh food and scattered ancient ruins. When you arrive, take a leader-led orientation walk through the historical city centre, past the Spanish Steps, Trevi fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Venezia, Roman Forum, and Colosseum. After taking in all the big (and small) highlights of this magical city, you’ll head to a local’s home for a special homecooked, plant-based dinner experience. Swap stories with your host and sit down for a feast of seasonal dishes, which could include local favourites like cacio e pepe, saltimbocca, artichokes or porchetta. After, maybe head to a local bar and cheers to a trip well-travelled over a glass of local wine.

• Rome - Leader-led orientation walk
• Rome - Home-cooked dinner

With no activities planned after breakfast, your food adventure comes to an end today. If you’d like to stay longer, just speak to your booking agent.

If you are interested in visiting the Colosseum, we strongly suggest planning your visit today as there is very limited time on Day 7 and pre-booking your tickets at coopculture.it/en/products/ticket-colosseum-roman-forum-palatine_24h/

If you are interested in visiting the Vatican Museums, we strongly suggest planning your visit today as there is very limited time on Day 7 and pre-booking your tickets at museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en.html

7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners

Train, Metro, Private Vehicle, Bus

Hotel (5 nights), Farmstay (2 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement exclude Days 5 and 6 (Agriturismo) where you will be in shared accommodation, and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 2. While we endeavor to cater for specific dietary requirements, some meals and food activities are set in advance and may be difficult to adjust. Please advise us of any dietary requirements at the time of booking so that we can ensure you’ll enjoy this trip. 3. As of April 2024, Venice will implement a visitor’s fee for all travellers visiting the city between 25 April and 15 July 2024. This fee is not payable by Intrepid customers, however you will need to apply for an exemption before arrival at https://cda.comune.venezia.it/en/richiestaEsenzione . For further information, please see the “Passports, visas and entry requirements,” section of your Essential Trip Information.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Italy Experience

Health Safety +

• Take a day trip to Perugia’s ancient town – Spello. Walk among the decorated facades, winding laneways and cobbled streets and then sample the local wine and regional delicacies at a local enoteca for lunch.
• See some iconic sites like the canals of Venice, the Duomo’s gorgeous exterior in Florence and the endless sights in Rome. Find out why these cities are loved by so many and enjoy plenty of free time to make your own discoveries.
• Eat your way through this foodie’s paradise with a cicchetti (small bites) tour in Venice, a pesto-making class in Cinque Terre and a local leader to point out all the best spots for espresso, gelato, wine and pasta.
• A series of walking paths connect the pastel villages of Monterosso, Corniglia and Riomaggiore in Cinque Terre. Explore this amazing region on foot with a group hike (and make sure you bring your camera).
• Support the local community with a farewell dinner in Trastevere – a gorgeous area in Rome popular for its summer dining and aperitif culture – at a local cooperative that employs people living with disabilities and provides hospitality training.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, Cooperativa Coraggio. Donations help them regenerate 22 hectares of unused public land to create local jobs and produce organic food in Italy. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

What's this trip about?

Travel themes.

• High Adventure
• Local Immersion & Homestays

Destinations

Attractions.

• Cinque Terre
• Vatican City
• Historic sightseeing

Trip includes

• Venice - Cicchetti tour
• Venice - San Giorgio Bell Tower
• Venice - Traghetto Ride
• Venice - Vaporetto daily pass
• Cinque Terre - 'Il Laboratorio del Pesto' Making & Demonstration
• Cinque Terre - Cinque Terre Pass and leader-led hike
• Pisa - Half Day Trip to Pisa
• Florence - Piazzale Michelangelo
• Perugia - Leader-led orientation walk
• Spello - Enoteca Wine Tasting & Lunch
• Rome - Leader-led orientation walk

Popular Trips

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There are no activities planned today, and your trip will come to an end. If you’d like to extend your stay in Rome (and it’s recommended that you do), just speak to your booking agent.

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Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Intrepid Travel .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Intrepid Travel Reviews & Ratings

Tour leader very active in making trip.

Tour leader very active in making trip enjoyable. He worked very hard and successfully to organise requests from participants without making a big deal of it. Very g...

Our trip through Italy was really great

Our trip through Italy was really great - we saw and did things that were of great interest with a really great group of people. Our tour leader, Serena, was outstan...

Well organised- despite using public transport it

Well organised- despite using public transport it was a safe, relaxing experience Quality of leader- travelling with a local made the experience better Pace of iti...

The tour leader, Mattia Villa was well

The tour leader, Mattia Villa was well organized and professional throughout. The group dynamic was outstanding and the sites covered on the trip were unique and spe...

The tour leader Mattia Villa was fantastic.

The tour leader Mattia Villa was fantastic. Made the trip.

Other Intrepid Travel Reviews

We joined the intrepid “real italy food….

We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information....

Audrey Tavares

Central Asia Explorer

This was my third trip with Intrepid, and I'll continue to plan future trips with them. I choose Intrepid to travel to parts of the world where I don't feel comforta...

Do not book a tour with Intrepid

Do not book a tour with Intrepid. Their “policy” on deposits is unreasonable, inflexible and downright thieving. I booked a tour in India with them over seven month...

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Fearlessly Italy

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

Iconic italy tour by g adventures.

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

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

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Ultimate Italy Tour with G Adventures

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

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

Italy Real Food Adventure with Intrepid Travel

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

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

Italian Glory – 13 Days with Trafalgar

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

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

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

Grand Italian Experience – 17 Days with Trafalgar

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

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

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

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

Taste of Italy – 8 Days with Expat Explore Travel

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

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

Sardinia & Corsica Sailing Adventure By Intrepid Travel

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

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

Amalfi Coast: Hike & Kayak By Intrepid Travel

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

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

Italy Family Holiday by Intrepid Travel

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

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

Cycle Tuscany by Intrepid Travel

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

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

Rome to Amalfi by Intrepid Travel

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

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

Lake Magic in Northern Italy by Falk Tours

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

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

Italy Experience by Intrepid Travel

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

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

Cinque Terre: Hike, Bike, & Kayak

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

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

Italy by High-Speed Train by Flag Travel Holidays

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

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

Explore Southern Italy by Intrepid Travel

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

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

Highlights of Charming Sicily – 8 Days by Click Tours

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Italy Real Food Adventure

• Food & Culinary
• Fully Guided
• Wine tasting

Places You’ll See

• Check out Rome's oldest food markets
• Enjoy a guided walk through vineyards
• Experience a class of pasta-making
• Crawl through Venice's bacari (wine bars)
• Introduction
• Day 1 Venice
• Day 2 Venice
• Day 3 Bologna
• Day 4 Bologna / Modena
• Day 5 San Gimignano
• Day 6 San Gimignano

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Customer photos.

Operated by Intrepid Travel

Back in 1989, two guys from Melbourne, Australia by the names of Darrell and Manch set off on an adventure to the other side of the world. They travelled to Africa and without air conditioning on their modified truck, they filled it with supplies, some beer, a bunch of aviator sunglasses, and some friends. On that trip, they came up with the idea that perhaps others may be interested in this style of travel too. Just like that, Intrepid was born. Intrepid has come a long way since then, now giving over 100,000 travelers a year the opportunity to experience small group travel across all 7 continents. They use local transport, sleep in local accommodation from Cambodian stilt houses to Moroccan riads, and employ 100% local leaders. With three different travel styles including basix, original and comfort, themes ranging from cycling trips to family holidays, and itineraries crafted with the perfect balance of must-see sights and free time, Intrepid caters to every type of traveller no matter their age, budget or travel style. The company has grown but their mission remains the same: to change the way people see the world through sustainable, experience-rich travel

Sustainability Initiatives

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Animal Welfare

Supporting Destinations

Sustainability Programs

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 4.3
• Itinerary Excellent 5.0
• Guide Excellent 5.0
• Transport Excellent 4.4
• Accommodation Good 3.6
• Food Excellent 5.0
• Tour Operator Intrepid Travel 4.6
• Most Recent
• Most Popular
• Highest First
• Lowest First

• A Ande M · 18th September 2019 I tried Intrepid for the first time, knowing there other companies that might have more activities or service but you pay much more for that. For the price point and the variation of part of your planned but the rest open to whatever you want it hit the... Show more Trip date: May 2019 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Craig S · 18th September 2019 You do good trip Trip date: May 2019 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Marjoleine B · 18th September 2019 I detracted a couple of points for Intrepid changing the start venue to a much lesser accommodation at short notice with no compensation. Trip date: May 2019 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Robin W · 18th September 2019 I enjoyed the trip but have enjoyed other tours a little bit better. There were more choices in terms of optional activities that the company helps you book. Also we arranged an additional night stay prior to pur tour that was mixed up and was a very... Show more Trip date: May 2019 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Alex M · 18th September 2019 Every activity we did that was included in the tour was fun, and a great learning experience. The food was fantastic, and each individual city we went to had its own unique experience that was fun. Trip date: May 2019 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Linda C · 18th September 2019 We’ll organised , good size, knowledgeable leader. Trip date: May 2019 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Clare R · 18th September 2019 Very well organised with one event leading into the next. Trip date: May 2019 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Ian B · 18th September 2019 The trip and tour leader were excellent, and have no complaints. Trip date: May 2019 Review collected by Intrepid Travel
• A Jane W · 18th September 2019 Your leader Jacopo Sementilli was knowledgeable, friendly, and enthusiastic. He took good care of us. Trip date: May 2019 Review collected by Intrepid Travel

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• August 2025
• September 2025
• October 2025
• Friday 3 May, 2024 Friday 10 May, 2024 English Sold Out €2,975 + €2 Venice - Traghetto Ride See Similar Tours For These Dates

Space on this tour is not guaranteed. Book this tour to request your place and the operator will confirm availability.

• Friday 7 Jun, 2024 Friday 14 Jun, 2024 English Sold Out €2,760 + €2 Venice - Traghetto Ride See Similar Tours For These Dates
• -10% Get Instant Confirmation Friday 14 Jun, 2024 Friday 21 Jun, 2024 English Filling Fast €2,760 €2,484 + €2 Venice - Traghetto Ride Confirm Dates
• -10% Get Instant Confirmation Friday 28 Jun, 2024 Friday 5 Jul, 2024 English Filling Fast €2,760 €2,484 + €2 Venice - Traghetto Ride Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h
• -10% Get Instant Confirmation Friday 19 Jul, 2024 Friday 26 Jul, 2024 English €2,760 €2,484 + €2 Venice - Traghetto Ride Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h
• -10% Get Instant Confirmation Friday 2 Aug, 2024 Friday 9 Aug, 2024 English Filling Fast €2,760 €2,484 + €2 Venice - Traghetto Ride 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h
• -10% Get Instant Confirmation Friday 23 Aug, 2024 Friday 30 Aug, 2024 English Filling Fast €2,760 €2,484 + €2 Venice - Traghetto Ride 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h
• -10% Get Instant Confirmation Friday 30 Aug, 2024 Friday 6 Sep, 2024 English €2,865 €2,579 + €2 Venice - Traghetto Ride 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h

Frequently Asked Questions

We are there for you! If you have any questions about this tour, then please don't hesitate to contact us 24/7 and we will get back to you latest within 2 hours!

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Good to Know

• Currency € Euro Italy

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, L.

• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 27th June 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 27th June 2024, a minimum payment of €400 is required to confirm your booking with Intrepid Travel. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 60 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Intrepid Travel will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Intrepid Travel" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Highlights of Italy

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• COVID-19 protected
• City sightseeing
• Countryside and village visits
• Natural landmarks sightseeing
• Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Customizable
• Booking Type Instant booking
• duration 8 days
• tour type Small group Request as private
• age requirement 15-99 yrs
• max group size 16
• guiding method Fully guided
• Tour Code BM-3759

• Starts Venice, Italy
• Ends Rome, Italy
• Explore rocky coastal pathways and pastel-coloured villages with a Cinque Terre day pass, which allows you to hike at your leisure and use the coast's public transport.
• Get lost in the floating city of Venice and wander the city's maze of alleyways, canals and lagoon islands, and choose whether to enjoy an optional gondola ride.
• Spend two days in Florence, a city known for its beauty and rustic Tuscan cuisine, and choose to discover the cities culinary traditions on optional food excursions.
• Mind-blowing squid ink spaghetti, rich Tuscan soups, a slice of pizza eaten while you gaze on centuries-old architecture – the food culture in Italy inebriate your soul.
• Discover the landmarks of Rome with your leader and wander around the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain the Pantheon and Piazza Navona.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Cooperativa Coraggio. Donations help them regenerate 22 hectares of unused public land to create local jobs and produce organic food in Italy.
• Day 1: Venice
• Day 2: Venice
• Day 3: La Spezia
• Day 4: Cinque Terre / La Spezia
• Day 5: Florence
• Day 6: Florence
• Day 7: Rome
• Day 8: Rome
• Hotel (3 nights), Hostel (2 nights), Guesthouse (2 nights)
• 3 Breakfasts
• An expert tour leader
• Venice - Leader-led Orientation Walk
• Venice – San Marco Square
• Venice - Cicchetti Snack Stop
• Cinque Terre - Day Trip, including Cinque Terre Pass
• Florence - Leader-led Orientation Walk
• Rome – Leader-led Orientation Walk
• Rome – Trevi Fountain
• Any international flights to Venice and from Rome are not included in this price. We always recommend that you arrive 1 day prior to your tour starting date.
• Travel insurance is not included in this Highlights of Italy tour. Travel insurance is mandatory to buy. World Nomads' travel insurance has been designed by travelers for travelers.
• Personal Itinerary can be tweaked and customized.
• Protected Travel within your own bubble.
• Professional Access our Travel Specialists' insider knowledge.
• Privacy Enjoy a tour focused solely on you or your travel group.
• Earn US$ 58+ in travel credits.
• Best price guaranteed.
• No credit card or booking fees.
• 100% financial protection.
• Carbon neutral tours.
• 25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.
• Read more reasons to book with Bookmundi less Read less

No additional cancellation fees apply for this Highlights of Italy tour. You can cancel the tour up to 58 days prior departure and avoid paying the full amount, but your deposit paid is non-refundable. No refund applies for cancellations within 57 days of departure.

For any tour departures within 23 June 2024, full payment is required. For tours that depart later than 23 June 2024, a deposit is required to confirm this tour, and the remaining balance will be charged 57 days before trip departure.

Highlights of Italy tour requires that you have adequate and valid travel insurance covering medical and personal accidents, including repatriation costs and emergency evacuation. World Nomads offers travel insurance for independent travelers and intrepid families.

For this Highlights of Italy tour getting the required visa(s) is the responsibility for each individual traveller, as visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. We recommend to check with your local embassies representing the countries that you are traveling to, as part of this itinerary.

• This trip is made for travellers who value their independence but also want the benefit of a local leader and a group of like-minded travellers. The itinerary has a mix of included activities and free time when your leader will offer suggestions. Please budget spending money for optional activities you want to partake in.
• As accommodation on this trip is twin-share, solo travellers will share a room with other travellers of the same gender. This trip is a great opportunity to get to know other like-minded people, so embrace it! Please note that a single supplement is not available on this trip. Space is at a premium in Europe and your hotel is no exception. For those travelling as a duo, hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together. In most cases, bathroom facilities will be shared rather than ensuite.
• Summer temperatures reach over 40°C in Italy during summer. It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat, and drink plenty of water. Please keep in mind that many European hotel rooms are not equipped with air-conditioning and consider the time of the year you wish to travel.
• Less time spent travelling, more time to explore each destination! The primary means of transportation on this trip is train. Trains are a fast way to cross long distances, allowing you to avoid traffic jams and arrive right into the city centre. They are comfortable and all have toilets, however, can sometimes be quite busy. You'll have to carry your own luggage on and off the train, so make sure it doesn’t exceed our weight and size recommendations. You can find specifics under ‘Packing’ in the ‘Essential trip information’ section.
• Proof of vaccination against COVID-19 is no longer mandatory on departures after 1st January 2023. Nonetheless, all travellers are strongly advised to be vaccinated as a safety measure to protect themselves and others on the tour. This policy excludes all Polar trips and select adventure cruises, where testing and vaccination are required.
• Also, proof of vaccination may still be required at specific entry points or by the airlines. Therefore, please make sure to check all the travel requirements carefully before travelling.

This trip incorporates the following COVID-19 measures:

• This tour has received the World Travel and Tourism Council’s Safe Travels stamp, which provides travellers with assurance that COVID-19 health and hygiene global standardised protocols have been adopted.
• Hygiene and safety guidelines will be followed to ensure your well being is looked after during travels.

• Joining point instructions
• Food and dietary requirements
• Money matters
• Climate and seasonal
• Your fellow travellers
• Itinerary disclaimer
• Joining point description
• Physical preparation
• Finish point instructions
• A couple of rules
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9 Best Italy Tours to Take in 2024

Explore italy without the hassle of planning every detail with the top italy tours of 2024..

The Scoop: What to Know About Trafalgar Tours

An Italy vacation is a chance to visit historic sites, sample some of the world’s most iconic food and wine, and simply enjoy a slower pace of life. When you join a small group guided tour in Italy, you’ll have time to visit these distinctly Italian delights without any of the hassles that come with trip planning. You can explore Italy and have time to enjoy being there.

2024’s Best Small Group Guided Tours in Italy

Whether you’re looking for an active adventure or a more laidback vacation with plenty of free time, there are excellent Italy tour packages tailored to your interests. Some of the best Italy tours give you the chance to see everything from the Roman Colosseum, Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican to the stunning cliffside homes of Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast, plus some of Italy’s famed wine regions.

You’ll also be accompanied by local guides who can arrange meals and assure every aspect of your Italy vacation runs smoothly. And what could be more la dolce vita than that? Here are my picks for the best Italy tours to consider in 2024.

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1. Grand Italian Experience Tour

The Grand Italian Experience tour of Italy offered by Trafalgar is a deep dive into the highlights of Italy in a single 17-day trip. The Italy tour starts and ends in Rome, where you’ll explore Vatican City, sit on the Spanish Steps, and see the Trevi Fountain. While touring the Alberobello region, you can stroll through the magnificent gardens of Tivoli and try local delicacies from a local farmer. 

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As the trip continues, you’ll spend time on the Amalfi Coast and the Isle of Capri before moving on to Pompeii. In Venice, you’ll be able to watch highly skilled artisans blowing glass and see St. Mark’s Basilica. While exploring Pisa, you’ll get up close to the Leaning Tower; and in Florence, you’ll see Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Santa Croce Basilica. 

• Length: 17 days
• Starting price: $5,695
• Average group size: 45 people
• More tours:   10 Best Trafalgar Tours to Take in 2024

2. Italian Espresso Tour

For young adults looking to explore Italy and make some new friends along the way, the Italian Espresso tour from Contiki is a perfect fit. This 10-day Italy tour is geared to 18- to 35-year-olds, making it a fun way to meet new people of a similar age and have help navigating Italy, all without feeling out of place on a tour geared to older adults.

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This tour of Italy includes popular experiences like a visit to the Duomo in Florence, a gondola ride in Venice, and a tour of Vatican City in Rome. One other big highlight is a cruise around Lake Como (which is an additional cost, but so worth it), where you can marvel at the dramatic foothills of the Dolomite Mountains as you watch adorable towns like Bellagio pass by. Foodies will also love the food and beverage walking tours of Venice, cooking classes in Florence, and wine tastings in Lucca. 

• Length: 10 days
• Starting price: $2,285
• Average group size: 39 people
• More tours:   10 Best Contiki Tours to Take in 2024

3. Italy Real Food Adventure Tour

Intrepid travel.

Culinary-minded travelers will enjoy the Italy Real Food Adventure tour from Intrepid Travel. This eight-day Italy vacation takes you to Venice, Bologna, Rome, and other cities and towns to try some of the best bites in the country. While exploring each destination, you’ll have the chance to try real balsamic vinegar in a vinegar loft, make tagliatelle al ragù in Bologna, and sample wine in San Gimignano. 

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Even with the built-in food and wine classes and experiences, there’s still plenty of time to get out on your own in each city. The expert guides who lead the trip can give you recommendations about where to get certain dishes and drinks away from the tourist traps, ensuring you get an authentic Italian experience. 

• Length: 8 days
• Starting price: $2,873
• Average group size: 12 people

4. Sicily, Puglia, and the Amalfi Coast Tour

Abercrombie & kent.

The 2024 Sicily, Puglia, and Amalfi Coast tour from Abercrombie & Kent takes you through some of the most beautiful regions of Italy over the course of an 11-day tour. After arriving in Palermo, you’ll explore the port city and the hillside town of Monreale, where the cathedral in the town dates back to 1170. Later in the journey, you’ll be able to see Mount Etna before heading to a cooking class where arancini are the star of the meal. 

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There’s another foodie delight waiting in Paestum, where you’ll learn how to make mozzarella cheese before heading to Naples to try the delicate cheese on authentic Neapolitan pizza and other iconic examples of Italian food. The tour ends with a day on the island of Capri, where you’ll be able to explore the town’s cafes, shops, and grand villas. 

• Length : 11 days
• Starting price: $8,795
• Average group size: 24 people

5. Piemonte Wine Country Biking Tour

Butterfield & robinson.

Butterfield & Robinson tours are known for being quite active, with biking and hiking trips that invite multiple generations of family members to travel together. Adults looking to mix in both relaxation and biking in Italy should check out the guided tour company’s Piemonte Wine Country Biking tour. The trip is specially curated for cyclers of all ages and skill levels, especially since you’ll be tasting wine along the way. You’ll also get to hunt for truffles and take a pasta-making class. 

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For this Italy tour, you don’t need to bring your own bike, because a hybrid or a racing bike rental is included in the cost. The bikes also have a handlebar-mounted tablet so everyone can keep up with the route if they end up falling behind because, say, they stop for photos.

• Length: 6 days
• Starting price: $7,695
• Average group size: 16 people 

6. Lake Como, Venice, Florence, and Rome Tour

If you want to see the big highlights of Italy, the Lake Como, Venice, Florence, and Rome tour from Tauck might be the one for you. The trip is offered from April through October each year, giving you the best chance for good weather and seeing the most sites possible. It starts in Milan before heading to Lake Como on day two. (Star Wars fans will love seeing the Franciscan monastery, which was a filming location for Attack of the Clones .) 

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Other highlights on the tour include seeing the Duomo and Michelangelo’s David in Florence, and a private after-hours tour of the Vatican Museum. Travelers will also visit the Roman Forum and the Colosseum in Rome. 

• Starting price: $9,490
• Average group size: 44 guests 

7. Italy Private Adventure

Adventures by disney.

Families looking to explore Italy with an expert guided but without other travelers should consider the Italy Private Adventure from Adventures by Disney . The tour starts in Rome, where your family will have a privately guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica and a private walking tour of the city, including a stop at the Trevi Fountain.

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In Tuscany, everyone in the family can participate in a pasta making class, then the adults head off to a wine tasting while kids are able to do a flavored olive oil tasting. The trip concludes in Venice where you’ll get a private tour of Doges Palace, enjoy a Carnevale mask making class, and ride in a gondola. As with all Adventures by Disney trips, this private tour is led by an expert Adventure Guide who can take your family to almost anywhere in the city, make dining arrangements, and snap photos while you sit back and enjoy the trip through Italy. 

• Starting price: $7,399
• Group size: Just your family 

8. Christmas in Rome

Road scholar.

Traveling to Europe during the Christmas holidays is equal parts exciting and enchanting. With the Christmas in Rome tour from Road Scholar , you can combine the winter holidays with the traditions of Italy for a unique and memorable trip. The tour takes place over nine days and gives you the chance to explore everything Rome offers, including the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, the Vatican Museums, and the Colosseum. 

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Near the end of the tour, there’s a day on which you learn about holiday traditions in Rome, and your group leader can share where to partake in various holiday activities. Be sure to ask about the Roman Christmas markets, where you can buy gifts for friends at home, try traditional treats, and take in all of the festive vibes. 

• Length: 9 days 
• Starting price: $3,799
• Average group size: 12 people 

9. Mediterranean Gems: Southern Italy and Sicily Cruise Tour

National geographic expeditions.

For an epic Italy tour with a price tag to match, consider the Mediterranean Gems: Southern Italy and Sicily tour from National Geographic Expeditions. While this 12-day cruise ship expedition starts in Dubrovnik, Croatia, the city is really just a launching point to get onto the beautiful Sea Cloud sailing ship before cruising around the boot of Italy, stopping at memorable travel destinations along the way. 

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Highlights of the tour include the medieval town of Otranto, seeing Mount Etna from Taormina then enjoying a private dinner at the historic Castello degli Schiavi, and exploring the charming town of Amalfi. History fans will enjoy the day at Pompeii, where you’ll be able to explore the city that was once blanketed in ash and debris from Mount Vesuvius. 

• Length: 12 days
• Starting price: $18,602
• Average group size: 58 people

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