Italy welcomes visitors with open arms throughout the year, each season offering distinct charms. While the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October are often preferred for pleasant weather and fewer crowds, there’s something magical about Italy no matter when you visit.

Summer brings vibrant life to coastal towns and cities but be prepared for higher temperatures and larger crowds. Winter offers a quieter, more intimate experience, especially in the countryside, though some regions may have limited offerings.

To ensure a seamless and luxurious experience, booking accommodations and activities well in advance is crucial, especially during peak season. Some of the most sought-after experiences and accommodations can be booked up a year in advance.

Ultimately, the perfect time to visit Italy depends on your personal preferences. Whether you crave the energy of summer, the tranquility of winter, or the sweet spot of the shoulder seasons, Italy promises an unforgettable adventure.

Italy offers a wealth of experiences, from bustling cities to serene countryside. While a week can provide a taste of this enchanting country, for a truly immersive journey, we recommend dedicating at least 10 to 14 days.

First-time visitors should prioritize Rome, Florence, and Venice, often referred to as the “big three.” These iconic cities boast world-class art, history, and architecture. To balance your trip, consider combining a city with either the charming Tuscan countryside or the stunning Amalfi Coast.

For a romantic escape, Puglia’s picturesque villages and olive groves offer an idyllic setting. Sicily, with its rich history, diverse landscapes, and delicious cuisine, is another excellent choice for a longer vacation. And for food enthusiasts, Emilia-Romagna, Italy’s “food valley,” is a must-visit.

Remember: The beauty of Italy lies in its diversity. Tailor your itinerary to your interests and desired pace. Whether you crave culture, relaxation, or culinary adventures, Italy has something to offer everyone. For inspiration, we invite you to peruse our sample itineraries.

Italy is a treasure trove of cultural and natural beauty, making it difficult to narrow down the must-see destinations. We usually recommend starting with the “Big 3:” Rome, Florence, and Venice. This itinerary is perfect for first-timers and allows you to see the main marvels of the Bel Paese, from the ancient majesty of the Eternal City to the Renaissance splendor of Florence and the incomparable atmosphere of Venice. It also works well for seasoned travelers who have already seen the main attractions and might enjoy delving further into the hidden corners in anyone of these cities.

Defining the “best” hotels in Italy is subjective and depends on what you’re looking for in a hotel experience. Italy is renowned for its opulent accommodations, offering an array of luxurious experiences that trying to compile a “short” list is challenging.

However, we have managed to compile a comprehensive list of our favorite boutique and luxury hotels in Milan, Venice, Rome, Florence, Tuscany, and Sicily. Consult our Travel Advisors for picks of the best places to stay in Italy.

Italy offers a wealth of extraordinary experiences for the discerning traveler. Here are some ideas to inspire your luxury getaway:
Coastal Indulgences

• Private Yacht Charter: Explore the stunning Italian coastline in style. From the Amalfi Coast’s dramatic cliffs to the magic of the Venetian Islands, a private yacht offers unparalleled luxury and freedom.

Cultural Immersions

• Truffle Hunting: Embark on a guided truffle hunt in the enchanting landscapes of Tuscany. Learn about these prized delicacies and savor their unique flavors.
• Wine Tasting Tours: Indulge your senses with a private wine tasting tour through renowned vineyards. Tuscany and Veneto are wine lovers’ paradises.
• Opera and Ballet: Experience the magic of Italian opera or ballet in iconic venues like La Scala in Milan or the Roman Opera House.
• Luxury Helicopter Tours: Explore Italy’s iconic landmarks from a bird’s-eye view. Enjoy breathtaking panoramas of Rome.
• High-End Golf: Tee off at world-class golf courses surrounded by stunning scenery. Sicily and Tuscany offer exceptional golfing experiences.

Wellness and Relaxation

• Spa Retreats: Unwind and rejuvenate at luxurious spa resorts offering a range of treatments and wellness programs. Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast are famous for their wellness retreats.
• Culinary Experiences: Immerse yourself in Italian cuisine with private cooking classes, wine tastings, and gourmet food tours.
• Yoga and Meditation: Find inner peace with yoga and meditation retreats in serene settings, such as the Tuscan countryside or the Amalfi Coast.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. With careful planning and a touch of luxury, we can create an unforgettable Italian adventure tailored to your desires.

Absolutely! Italy is a fantastic choice for a family vacation. With its rich history, diverse landscapes, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, it offers something for everyone.

Our expert Travel Advisors specialize in crafting tailored itineraries that cater to families of all ages and interests. Let us create a magical experience for your family. Explore our sample itineraries and contact us discover the benefits of our personalized trip planning service.

Italy is the epitome of romance. With its timeless charm, breathtaking landscapes, and world-class cuisine, it’s no wonder couples flock here to celebrate their love. From the grandeur of Rome to the serene beauty of the Amalfi Coast, Italy offers an unforgettable honeymoon experience.

Imagine gliding through Venice’s canals in a gondola, sharing a bottle of Chianti in a Tuscan vineyard, or indulging in a couple’s massage overlooking the Mediterranean. These are just a few of the magical moments that await you in Italy.

Let us help you create your dream honeymoon. Our expert team can tailor a bespoke itinerary to your desires, ensuring every moment is filled with love and luxury. Discover our curated honeymoon itineraries and let the planning begin!

Yes, absolutely. After more than 16 years creating complex itineraries, we know the value of trip insurance. Traveling creates memories of a lifetime, and can also mean encountering the unexpected, ranging from an inconvenient flight delay to a cancellation for sickness or a truly serious medical emergency.

In today’s travel environment it’s increasingly important to protect yourself and your travel investment against unwelcome surprises. Your insurance policy should include coverage for emergency medical situations, baggage loss or damage and expenses incurred from disrupted travel plans.

While citizens of the European Union and countries within the Schengen Area can often use a national identity card, travelers from other countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and most others, will require a valid passport to travel to Italy.

Important to note:

• Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area.
• Ensure your passport has blank pages for entry stamps.
• It’s important to check the specific requirements for your nationality. Passport validity rules and additional documentation may vary.

As for now, there are no critical visa considerations for North Americans or Europeans traveling to Italy, but new rules were set to go into effect in 2024. Starting in 2025, U.S. passport holders traveling to Europe will need to apply for authorization through the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) before their visit. So, when ETIAS goes into effect, you will need to obtain ETIAS before traveling to Italy.

Italy is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time in the United States and 9 hours ahead of Pacific Time. Like most European countries, Italy has daylight saving time which lasts from the last Sunday in March through the last Sunday in October. It moves its clocks ahead an hour in late spring and an hour back in the fall, corresponding roughly to daylight saving time in the United States, but the exact dates vary. When it’s 12pm in Italy, it’s 6am in New York and 3am in San Francisco.