Packed full of ancient history, amazing food and – let’s face it – beautiful people – Italy remains one of the world’s most enticing travel destinations.
(Photo: Bookmundi)
Whether it’s majestic metropolises, tranquil lakes, dramatic mountains or stunning countryside that takes your fancy, Italy has it all. Little surprise that it draws millions of tourists from across the world every year, all seeking to touch, see, taste and hear manifestations of that quintessential Italian cultural essence. If you’d like to visit Italy while meeting like-minded travellers along the way, we’ve picked out 5 of the best small group Italian tours currently available.
Highlights of Italy (8 days)
Adventure among the canals of Venice, hike through the charming Cinque Terre, discover the ancient landmarks of Rome, and soak up the beauty and history of Florence on this immersive guided city sightseeing tour. With plenty of free time for independent exploration, you’ll be able to discover Italy’s history and culture at your own pace. There’ll also be the chance to savour authentic Italian cuisine including squid ink spaghetti, rich Tuscan soups, and of course pizza. The tour price includes 7 nights’ accommodation and a Cinque Terre day pass. From €1,273 per person.
Taste of Salento-Authentic Culinary Experience (7 days)
(Photo: Soleto Travel / Courtesy Tourradar)
The region of Salento at the southern end of Apulia in Southern Italy is renowned for its distinctive seasons, which is reflected in the area’s diverse culinary scene that changes in unison with the climate. Starting and ending in Brindisi, this multi-day tour invites you to discover the authentic taste of Salento by enjoying a variety of local experiences. Among them are a visit to a traditional Masseria (farmhouse) where you’ll tuck into a home-cooked dinner, learn the art of olive oil production, and try your hand at pasta making. There’ll also be a visit to Castro and the prehistoric cave of Zinzulusa. From €1,620 per person.
Walking the Amalfi Coast (8 days)
With its mountains jutting steeply out of the Mediterranean and picturesque towns nestled in the coves below, the Amalfi Coast is one of the most dramatic coastlines in Europe. This captivating tour offers the perfect combination of idyllic coastal views, heritage sites, and scenic towns. Walking the ancient hillsides studded with lemon groves, you’ll descend from the Agerola Plain to the quaint towns of Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi itself. Later, you’ll visit the iconic remains of Pompei before finishing with a famous coastal talk, known as the ‘Walk of the Gods’. Away from the trails, there’ll also be the chance to sample local food and wine just like the Italians do. From €1,379 per person.
Best of Italy (10 days)
(Photo: Turban Adventures / Courtesy Tourradar)
If you like the idea of seeing as much of the country as you can in a relatively short space of time, this action-packed whistle-stop tour could be for you. After meeting in Rome, you’ll spend your first night in the Eternal City before embarking on a guided tour of its main attractions. Over the ensuing ten days, you’ll be transported by a combination of road and rail to some of the country’s most famous cities, sites and places of interest including the Amalfi Coast, Naples, the island of Capri, the museums of Florence and magical Venice, where your adventure comes to an end. From €4,470 per person.
Puglia: Discover the Heel of Italy (8 days)
Known for its whitewashed hill towns, traditional farmland, fine cuisine, and the sweeping Mediterranean coastline, the region of Puglia on the southern heel of Italy has grown in popularity in recent years – in large part thanks to word spreading of its burgeoning culinary scene. This tour invites you to discover why, taking you through charming towns such as Trulli, Otranto, Ostuni and a trio of other notable hot spots. Among the tour’s foodie highlights include olive oil tasting and a pasta making workshop in Ostuni. From €1,666 per person.