Classic VacationsItaly

When you envision Italy, images of majestic ruins, sun-drenched landscapes and vibrant piazzas come immediately to mind. From Northern marvels to Southern charms, this enchanting Mediterranean nation offers endless adventures for every traveller, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned fan. Don’t know where to begin? Our package tours offer the country at its best. Here are some of the must-see experiences that will captivate your senses and spark your wanderlust.

Exploring the Ancient Heart of Rome

Begin your Italian odyssey in Rome, the Eternal City where history unfolds around every corner. Start your walking tour at the Colosseum, a monumental amphitheatre that conjures tales of gladiators and emperors. Nearby, the Roman Forum invites you to stroll through history amid the remnants of once-majestic temples and arches. For the art aficionado, Vatican City offers an unrivalled gallery of Renaissance masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museum. As you wander through these historic corridors, you’re treading the same paths once trod by powerful Caesars and Popes.

Embrace the Romantic Splendour of Venice

Venice is one of Italy’s iconic destinations, known for gondola rides, offering a unique perspective on the city’s stunning Venetian Gothic architecture. St. Mark’s Basilica, with its intricate mosaics, is a feast for the eyes, while the Doge’s Palace provides a glimpse into the opulent past of this mercantile powerhouse. As evening falls, savour a quiet moment in Piazza San Marco, the city’s cafe-lined main square dominated by St. Mark’s Basilica and towering campanile.

Under the Tuscan Sun: Siena and Florence

Head to Tuscany, where the rolling vineyards of Chianti form a picture-postcard backdrop for your Italian escapade. Siena boasts a beautifully preserved square, Piazza del Campo, that hosts the thrilling annual Palio horse race. Just a short journey away, Florence beckons with its Renaissance wonders. Marvel at Michelangelo's David in the Accademia Gallery and admire the architectural prowess of Brunelleschi’s Dome. Both cities offer delectable Tuscan dishes, such as panzanella (a hearty traditional salad made with stale bread, fresh tomatoes, onion and basil) and tagliatelle al tartufo (long ribbons of delicate pasta tossed with butter and garlic, then decadently topped with shavings of black truffle and parmigiano cheese). 

The Scenic Amalfi Coast

Venture south to where azure seas meet dramatic cliffs along the Amalfi Coast. Picturesque villages such as Positano and Ravello offer stunning vistas and luxurious retreats ideal for the ultimate Italy vacations. Here, the regional cuisine is as vibrant as the scenery, with fresh seafood and lemons forming the backbone of tantalizing local dishes. The winding coastal road presents panoramas at every turn, encouraging impromptu stops and leisurely exploration.

The Timeless Appeal of Sicily

No tour of Italy is complete without a visit to Sicily, where layers of history, culture and cuisine coalesce under the Mediterranean sun. In Agrigento, visit the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site dotted with ancient Greek temples. In Palermo, a sensory odyssey awaits you at the bustling markets, offering street food from arancini to cannoli. Immersing yourself in the distinct cultural tapestry that defines Sicily will bring you into contact with a unique blend of influences from across the ages.

These destinations provide just a glimpse of what makes the Italian experience so alluring, especially for first-time visitors. Each city and region offers its own sightseeing pleasures, inviting you to visit and revisit either independently or through tour packages.