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Picture of Italy

Travel Guide for
Italy

Italy

Mediterranean, alpine in north, hot summers

Introduction

Italy, located in southern Europe, is a peninsula surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea and known for its beautiful landscapes, from rolling Tuscan hills to the dramatic Amalfi Coast. With a rich history dating back to the Roman Empire and the Renaissance, Italy is full of fascinating ancient ruins and world-famous art cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice.

The culture is warm and family-oriented, with delicious cuisine and lively festivals suitable for all ages. Italy offers affordable options, such as pizza in Naples or exploring charming villages, making it perfect for families looking for memorable, budget-friendly vacations.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleFamily friendly

DatesDate not specified

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel, apartment or house

Interests and Activities:

gastronomyarts and culturefamily activities

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Picture of Italy

Key Facts

Location

Southern Europe

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Religion

Roman Catholicism

Population

59,000,000

Language

Italian, regional languages

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, types C, F, L

Time zone

UTCCET (UTC+1)

Country code

+39

Internet access

Widespread, high-speed, affordable

Climate

Mediterranean, alpine in north, hot summers

See More Italy Facts

Language:

Italian

  • hello

    ciao (chow)
  • goodbye

    arrivederci (ah-ree-veh-DER-chee)
  • yes

    (see)
  • no

    no (noh)
  • how much

    quanto costa? (KWAN-toh KOH-sta)
  • please

    per favore (pehr fah-VOH-ray)
  • thank you

    grazie (GRAHT-see-eh)
  • excuse me

    mi scusi (mee SKOO-zee)

Map

Logistics

Most travelers reach Italy by air, with major airports in Rome, Milan, and Venice offering numerous international flights. Families on an average budget should compare flights from major hubs and consider flying into different cities for the best deals. When traveling within Europe, trains are a flexible and scenic option, connecting Italy to neighboring countries like France, Switzerland, and Austria.

Long-distance buses—such as FlixBus—are budget-friendly and serve many Italian cities. For a unique experience, ferries connect Italy with Greece, Croatia, and other Mediterranean destinations, though schedules can vary by season and weather. Book transportation in advance during peak seasons to secure seats and the best prices for your family.

Weather

Italy has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters, especially in the south and along the coasts. Northern regions, like Milan and the Alps, experience colder winters and occasional snowfall, while spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant throughout the country.

The best times to visit are late April to early June and September to October, when temperatures are comfortable and popular sites are less crowded. These seasons are ideal for exploring art, cuisine, and family activities. July and August can be very hot and crowded, especially in tourist hubs—many locals also vacation during August, leading to some closures.

Food & Drink

Italian cuisine is famous for its pizza, handmade pasta, gelato, and espresso. Don’t miss regional dishes such as Tuscan ribollita, Neapolitan pizza, and Sicilian arancini. Family-run trattorias and osterias offer authentic, affordable experiences, while bustling local markets, like Florence’s Mercato Centrale or Rome’s Campo de’ Fiori, are great places to sample fresh produce and street food.

Cafés (bars) are perfect for a quick cappuccino and pastry, and gelaterias are a must for sweet treats. In most restaurants, tipping is not required—service is often included, but you can leave small change for great service. Many eateries accommodate dietary needs, but it’s helpful to confirm vegetarian or allergy-friendly options in advance.

Keep in mind that Italians typically dine later than some families may be used to, and meal pace is relaxed. Booking ahead is wise in popular cities. Enjoy discovering the diverse flavors and friendly hospitality that Italian food culture offers!

A picture of Pizza

Pizza

Pizza is one of Italy's most famous and beloved foods. It features a thin, crispy crust topped with...

A picture of Lasagna

Lasagna

Lasagna is a classic Italian pasta dish consisting of layers of wide flat pasta, rich tomato sauce, creamy...

A picture of Risotto

Risotto

Risotto is a creamy and comforting Italian rice dish cooked with broth until it reaches a velvety consistency....

A picture of Tiramisu

Tiramisu

Tiramisu is a luscious and decadent Italian dessert made from layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone cheese, and...

A picture of Ossobuco

Ossobuco

Ossobuco is a traditional Milanese dish featuring braised veal shanks cooked with white wine, broth, and aromatic vegetables....

Accommodation

Italy offers excellent family-friendly hotels and apartments, especially in cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice. Look for central neighborhoods such as Rome’s Trastevere, Florence’s San Lorenzo, and Venice’s Cannaregio for easy access to attractions, restaurants, and public transport. These areas typically feature both comfortable hotels and modern vacation rentals with flexible amenities.

Booking.com and Airbnb are reliable sites for securing family-friendly apartments and hotels across Italy. Popular mid-range hotel chains like NH Hotels and Starhotels offer spacious family rooms. For a more authentic experience, consider renting an Italian “agriturismo”—a countryside apartment or house that provides both comfort and a taste of rural life, ideal for families seeking peace and space.

Itinerary

Ease into your Italian journey by enjoying authentic local cuisine, bonding as a family, and experiencing the warm hospitality of Italy's vibrant cities.

Gelato-Making Workshop for Families

Kick off your Italian adventure with a hands-on gelato workshop in Rome. Kids and adults alike will learn the secrets behind Italy’s favorite sweet treat, sample fresh flavors, and bond as a family in a fun, interactive environment. Great for easing into the culture!

Evening Piazza Navona Stroll & Family Photo Session

Take a gentle stroll through Piazza Navona’s vibrant square. Enjoy buskers, artists, and fountains, and capture beautiful family moments with a relaxed photo session amid the baroque architecture. Perfect for soaking in the city’s warm welcome.

Family Dinner at a Traditional Roman Trattoria

Enjoy a hearty Italian dinner at a local trattoria where you can taste homemade pasta and pizza. Many trattorias welcome families and offer kid-friendly menus, ensuring a warm hospitality experience for all ages.

Milan Cooking Class: Authentic Pizza & Gelato Making

Milan Cooking Class: Authentic Pizza & Gelato Making

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

"Italians do it better"... certainly true if we're talking about tasty pizza and creamy gelato. Well finally so can you, learning to make genuine pizza and gelato in a unique location: a brand new (and very hip!) cooking studio in downtown Milan. Entertaining, instructive and easygoing our gelato and pizza making class is perfect for families seeking an activity where children can learn about local culture in a fun and relaxed way.

4.9 (367 reviews)

From $94 USD

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Attractions

4.6 (490 reviews)
Venetian Carnival Mask Making Class in Venice, Italy

Venetian Carnival Mask Making Class in Venice, Italy

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

If you want to live a real experience in the heart of Venice that's the right choice! A Venetian Master Artisan will explain to you, in 1 hour course, the traditional art of decorating a mask, an artistic personal event which will make you live the preparation for the Venetian Carnival. Create your own unique masterpiece and following your artistic streak, a special memory of an amazing experience and keep your artistic creation of the most emblematic icon of Venice!     An unconventional and handcrafted moment to live with your family or friends!

From $82 USD

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4.9 (445 reviews)
Boat Tour in Capri Italy

Boat Tour in Capri Italy

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

... for us traveling means knowledge and excitement. Our tours are emotional experiences able to involve all the senses; there are three different levels of experience based on your needs and preferences: • Classic: for those who have little time, but are eager to get to know the island. • Relaxation: for those who love to enjoy the journey, without renouncing sun and sea. • Intensive: for lovers of intense travel and for those who want to spend a whole day immersed in nature and fun. The tour starts ONLY from Capri. Please note: waiting times for the Blue Grotto are very long (about one hour and a half). The ticket is not included and can only be purchased at the entrance, in cash. The waiting time will be removed from the duration of the tour, so we recommend booking at least the 4 hour tour (Relaxation).

From $401 USD

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4.5 (11 reviews)
Wine and Food Tasting in Naples Italy

Wine and Food Tasting in Naples Italy

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Taste the flavors of southern Italy through the eyes of a local. Visit a traditional family-owned winery and get to know the owners. Enjoy a wine tasting in the heart of the historic center of Naples. Immerse yourself in local culture by trying homemade Neapolitan food. Savor wines and delicacies at a 60-year-old bar in the city center.

From $58 USD

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5.0 (77 reviews)
Exclusive Private Boat Tour in Italy

Exclusive Private Boat Tour in Italy

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The beauty of Capri island with an expert skipper and a new wonderful boat. You could decide where to go ,where to swim, if you like we will suggest you one of the restaurants on the sea. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the land of mermaids.

From $593 USD

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5.0 (47 reviews)
Sorrento Pizza School Activity in Italy

Sorrento Pizza School Activity in Italy

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Arriving at the mill with a convenient courtesy car, you will meet the staff who will accompany you throughout the gastronomic tour and pizza lesson. Sipping a welcome drink, Francesca, Viola, or a member of our staff will explain the ancient origins of pizza and the different styles of pizza in the world. For example: the differences between slice pizza and Neapolitan pizza. You will then be ready for the practical part! Prepare your first pizza! After the lesson you will eat in front of Mount Vesuvius and taste Limoncello and typical liqueurs.

From $96 USD

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5.0 (6 reviews)
Florentine Paper Marbling an Artisan Tradition in Italy

Florentine Paper Marbling an Artisan Tradition in Italy

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Paper marbling is a Florentine artisan tradition dating back to the Renaissance. We start by introducing the materials with a quick demo including paper treatment, creating colours, and pattern techniques. Dive into your creativity while exploring this ancient craft in a modern way! * Lessons are at a local art studio where guests can relax and practice in comfort. Space is air conditioned and heated seasonally. * duration is approximately 2 hours *Activity is family/child friendly for all ages. Private groups available, simply choose days/time on request and message. CANCELLATIONS- due to material & space prep refunds are only approved with over 48 Hour notice. Less than 24H notice or No-shows will be charged full amount. ** A min. qty of participants is required; Single person bookings may be cancelled if there are no other participants. You may message in advance to inquire about schedule & days for single referrals

From $85 USD

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5.0 (14 reviews)
Every Day Cooking Class in Lucca Italy

Every Day Cooking Class in Lucca Italy

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

If you want to try real Lucca’s flavors you are in the right place. We will make everything together and at the end we will eat what we cooked with a good glass of wine as accompaniment. Also kids can cook with us and actively participate to the cooking class. It is an excellent opportunity to learn how Italian grandma’s cook. We are here to learn and have fun by cooking together! We will cook pasta and tiramisù together, two very typical italian dishes and in the meanwhile we drink local wine or aperitivo! Vegetarian, vegan and no dairy options.

From $154 USD

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4.3 (282 reviews)
5-Day Best of Italy: Assisi, Siena, Florence, Venice and more

5-Day Best of Italy: Assisi, Siena, Florence, Venice and more

INSTANT

This deluxe coach journey offers a blend of guided tours and free time, allowing you to experience the best of Italy’s culture, art, and cuisine. Begin in Rome and visit Assisi’s medieval charm, Siena’s iconic piazza, and the Renaissance splendor of Florence. Explore Bologna’s rich history and Venice’s enchanting canals. Enjoy stays in centrally located 4-star hotels, expert local guides, and curated meals that showcase the unique flavors of each region. Perfect for travelers looking to explore Italy’s treasures in comfort and style.

From $1038 USD

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5.0 (2 reviews)
Bari Tuk Tuk tour along the coast

Bari Tuk Tuk tour along the coast

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover Bari by tuk-tuk Ape Calessino. An amazing tour along the coast on Italy’s longest seafront. Ride from Pane e Pomodoro Beach to the San Cataldo Lighthouse while admiring monuments, markets, and street art.

From $53 USD

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4.9 (7 reviews)
Milan: Electric Bicycle Tour Tourist Guide Live - 3 hours & half

Milan: Electric Bicycle Tour Tourist Guide Live - 3 hours & half

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover the best of Milan city center with a 3 hour and a half Segway tour led by a milanese licensed tourist guide.

From $89 USD

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4.0 (71 reviews)
8-Days Best of Italy Trip from Rome with Florence and Venice

8-Days Best of Italy Trip from Rome with Florence and Venice

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL

Discover the highlights of Italy in 8 days on an escorted deluxe coach tour from Rome to Venice. Experience the charm of medieval towns, Renaissance art, and the romantic canals of Venice, all while enjoying the comfort of centrally located 4-star hotels. With expert guides and curated meals, this tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive Italian experience with a blend of guided tours and free time. * Visit Italy’s top art cities: Rome, Florence, Venice * Travel in a deluxe air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi * Expert Tour Director and local guides * Stay in 4-star centrally located hotels * Special Spritz and "Cicchetti" experience in Venice

From $1470 USD

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4.8 (6 reviews)
From Florence: Private Ferrari Museums Tour: Italy's motoring art excellence

From Florence: Private Ferrari Museums Tour: Italy's motoring art excellence

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Departures are always guaranteed! We're using Land Rover car or premium miniVan. Discover the main museums of the world-famous motor house: Ferrari. The tour will start from Florence and the first stop will be the Enzo Ferrari Museum. Here you will be able to admire the most beautiful and famous models of Ferrari. Enjoy the museum with a local guide for 1 hours before moving to Modena, the true home of the Italian engine. Before exploring the real house of Ferrari in Maranello, you will enjoy lunch in the city center of this beautiful old town in a in a typical Emilian Trattoria. Here you will taste traditional Emilian products: parmesan cheese, ham, fried dumpling, lasagne, pasta with ragu... The tour continues with the visit to the house of Ferrari the museum of Maranello where a Ferrari guide will tell you in a tour of 1 hour the history of the most famous and important car brand in the world.

From $772 USD

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5.0 (4 reviews)
Turin Full-Day guided tour. Departure from Milan

Turin Full-Day guided tour. Departure from Milan

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

First capital of Italy, Turin is a wonderful place to explore Italian culture. With its elegant squares, world-famous museums and a fascinating coffee scene, Turin is one of the most fascinating cities in Italy. Highlights: • Full day tour from Milan • Guided visit of the city • Admire the magnificient Mole Antonelliana • Stroll through the luxurious shops

From $189 USD

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4.2 (5 reviews)
2 Hours Art Class with Local Artist

2 Hours Art Class with Local Artist

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

1. Paint Like a Local: Artistic Workshop in the Heart of Rome 2. Create Your Own Masterpiece: Guided Art Class with a Roman Artist 3. Acrylic Magic: Hands-On Painting Experience in a Roman Gallery 4. From Canvas to Soul: Express Yourself Through Art in Rome

From $154 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Italian Fresh Pasta Private Virtual Cooking Class

Italian Fresh Pasta Private Virtual Cooking Class

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Enjoy a private and authentic online cooking class and learn to make Cinzia's family recipes for fresh pasta and a classic Italian dessert. This is a perfect experience for anyone looking to connect with local culture over food. A fun and cultural virtual cooking experience with a Florence local! • Learn to make homemade pasta from scratch and an Italian dessert • Private, one-on-one online instruction with a Florence resident • Introduction to Italy's culture and cuisine • Scheduled mutually at your convenience (host lives in Florence, Italy (GMT +2) ) • Recipes and ingredients list will be emailed in advance of class • Customization available for dietary restrictions or preferences • Travel from your own home and learn culinary traditions of Italy!

From $59 USD

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5.0 (2 reviews)
Authentic Pesto Class & Tasting on the Ligurian Coast in Chiavari

Authentic Pesto Class & Tasting on the Ligurian Coast in Chiavari

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover the art of preparing authentic Ligurian pesto in a hands-on cooking class in the beautiful town of Chiavari. Immerse yourself in the local culinary traditions as a skilled Italian chef guides you through every step of making this famous sauce from scratch. After preparing your pesto, enjoy a delicious meal featuring trofie al pesto, followed by a traditional Italian dessert. Savor the flavors of Liguria in a fun and interactive setting, as you learn the secrets behind one of Italy's most beloved dishes. This unique experience is hosted by Cesarine, Italy’s oldest network of passionate home cooks. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced foodie, this class will give you the skills to recreate authentic Ligurian pesto at home and truly taste the heart of Italy!

From $136 USD

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