To describe the beauty of Italy’s basilicas, the magnificence of her frescos and the power of her charm would be to fail. But every year, dozens of tourists collapse at the sight of their glory.
Many of Italy’s icons are imprinted on the mind of popular culture. There’s the enormous Colosseum, where Romans once leered at their brutal entertainment. There’s the town of Cinque Terre, with its colourful houses soaring above a Mediterranean coast. And then there’s the Vatican City, with its paintings by Michelangelo and Botticelli. But the Italians know that no replica of these things even comes close the originals.

What people say
I did the Secrets of Italy with my Mom and here’s something not-so-secret … We had the best time ever! This trip hits the major highlights at a fast but reasonable pace. Traveling on public transportation, walking the Cinque Terre and a pesto making class and lunch at an enoteca were just some of the highlights.

Italy travel highlights

Return to the Middle Ages at St Mark’s Basilica
It’s known as The Church of Gold – this magnificent 11th century cathedral represents the opulence of Venetian society.

Marvel at the towering pillars of the Pantheon
The city of Rome is over 3000 years old. The Pantheon is just one monument remaining from its earliest glory days.
Our Italy trips
15 Days From $5,787
Spend time among the splendour of Tuscany and complete your journey with a few days...
15 Days From $5,665
Explore the glorious Adriatic coast that winds through Italy, Slovenia and Croatia,...
8 Days From $3,045
Explore the beautiful cities, mountains and waterfalls of Slovenia and Croatia with...
8 Days From $2,299
Explore Italy's famous Amalfi Coast, taking in beautiful Mediterranean towns, including...
8 Days From $3,030
Explore the beautiful Italian Lakes region – the likes of Como and Garda – on foot,...
10 Days From $3,969
Travel to Venice, Florence, Rome and the Cinque Terre, and spend time in the very heart...
11 Days From $3,625
Immerse yourself in the diversity of the beautiful Sicilian coast on this Peregrine...
8 Days From $2,725
Stretch your legs along the spectacular Italian coast of the Cinque Terre, from Levanto...
8 Days From $2,537
Encounter the picturesque hills and olive groves of Tuscany on this walking adventure...
22 Days From $7,915
A 22-day tour through the Western Balkans, starting in Venice and passing through...
10 Days From $4,745
All aboard for a picturesque railway journey through the Alpine scenery of Milan,...
Italy tour reviews
Our Italy trips score an average of 4.72 out of 5 based on 158 reviews in the last year.
Secrets of Italy, September 2017
Steve Rodgers
Thank you Peregrine, another great adventure.
Review submitted 20 Oct 2017
Spirit of Amalfi, October 2017
Michael Stott
A well organised tour, a very good guide, well chosen accommodation and meals. With stunning views of the Amalfi coast from the walks and lunch stops. Have a good level of fitness and strong supportive walking boots.
Review submitted 17 Oct 2017
Articles on Italy
Italy holiday information
Italy facts
Local culture of Italy
Geography & environment
Shopping guide to Italy
Italy festival calendar
Food & drink in Italy
Further reading
Italy travel FAQs
- Australia: No - Not required
- Belgium: No - Not required
- Canada: No - Not required
- Germany: No - Not required
- Ireland: No - Not required
- Netherlands: No - Not required
- New Zealand: No - Not required
- South Africa: Yes - in advance
- Switzerland: No - Not required
- UK: No - Not required
- USA: No - Not required
Tipping is uncommon in Italy. Some restaurants include a surcharge but there’s no need to tip in cases when there isn’t.
You’ll have good internet access in Italian cities and towns however service may be unreliable in remote places.
Mobile coverage is good in cities and towns but unreliable in remote places. Remember to activate global roaming with your provider if you wish to use your mobile while traveling.
Italy has western-style toilets. Many public toilets require a small fee to use.
- Cup of coffee = 2 Euro (less if you forego the table and stand up)
- A glass of beer = 5 Euro
- Bottle of wine in a restaurant = 16 Euro
- Small gelato cone = 3 Euro
Drinking tap water is safe in Italy unless otherwise stated. For environmental reasons, avoid buying bottled water and bring a refillable bottle or canteen with you.
Credit cards are accepted in hotels, and major shops and restaurants, however you’ll require cash to make purchases from some small businesses.
Italy has plenty of ATMs in its cities and towns.
Yes. All peregrine passengers are required to purchase travel insurance prior to their trip. Your insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day.
For a current list of public holidays in Italy go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/italy/public-holidays
Top Italy travel deals
Departing | Trip name | Days | From USD | |
---|---|---|---|---|
6 May 2018Tuscany & Cinque Terre Explorer |
Florence to Santa Margherita | 15 |
$5,787
|
View Trip |
13 May 2018The Cinque Terre Explored |
Levanto to Santa Margherita | 8 |
$3,002
|
View Trip |
21 May 2018Secrets of Italy |
Venice to Rome | 10 |
$3,970
|
View Trip |
10 Jun 2018Italian Lakes Discovery |
Milan to Verona | 8 |
$3,031
|
View Trip |
10 Jun 2018Walking in Tuscany |
Florence to Volterra | 8 |
$2,538
|
View Trip |
12 Jun 2018Spirit of Sicily |
Palermo to Syracuse | 11 |
$3,626
|
View Trip |
17 Jun 2018Spirit of Amalfi |
Naples to Atrani | 8 |
$2,300
|
View Trip |