Italy holidays are ever so popular, known for their air of romance, glamorous fashion, delicious cuisine and tons of natural beauty and history – pretty much everything you could want. Some of the world’s greatest and most iconic ancient ruins are here making it a history buffs dream, while everything from the rolling hills of Tuscany to the jagged cliffs of the Amalfi Coast make it a heaven for nature lovers.

That’s not forgetting the art fanatics, who will flourish in Florence with all the Rennaissance art, striking architecture and museums. Italy’s cities are bursting with energy and character, from the winding canals of Venice to the upscale shopping in Milan, and historic sites in Rome.

The charming villages and towns like the Neapolitan Riviera and Calabria, offer a slower pace of life with breathtaking beaches in the coastal resorts and picturesque countryside among the mountains and lakes.

From March to November holidays in Italy are a dream, seeing spring temperatures ranging from a mild 12℃ to sunny 20℃, then hotting up in the summer months, sometimes even soaring above 30℃. Autumn begins to cool off to milder temperatures, but is the perfect time for those adventurous Italian breaks.

Beautiful beaches

Italy is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse beaches in Europe, offering a variety of coastal experiences, from crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling to dramatic cliffs and incredible picture backdrops. Beach days in Italy couldn’t get better.

• Thought of as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Rabbit Beach (or, Spiaggia dei Conigli) offers powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters in Sicily. It’s a serene escape, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling and it’s particularly great for nature lover’s as it’s known to be a nesting site for endangered sea turtles.
• The Amalfi Coast is famous for its stunning cliffs, charming towns, and turquoise waters, but Positano beach certainly has to be the highlight. It’s a picture-perfect beach surrounded by colorful buildings and lush hillsides, perfect for anyone who enjoys both scenic views and vibrant beach town life. There’s plenty of cafes, shops, and restaurants right by the shore for everything you could need.
• Also in Positano, Fornillo Beach is a quieter alternative that’s just as beautiful. This smaller beach offers stunning views of the Amalfi Coast, crystal-clear waters, and an all-round more relaxed atmosphere. With fewer tourists, it’s perfect for those looking to unwind in a more intimate setting.
• Lungomare, the main beach in Cefalu, is a generous five kilometres of golden sands where you can worship the sun, and families can swim in its shallow waters. The surrounding town centre has a variety of ammenities as well as historical and cultural sites to add to your beach day.

Vibrant cities

Italy holidays are just as renowned for its plethora of incredible city breaks. Enjoy a rich blend of history, culture, art, and cuisine wherever you go, while still soaking up each cities own unique charm. What’s great is that the cities in Italy are very pedestrian-friendly so it’s great for exploring on foot and soaking in these gems up close.

• Rome is an incredible city that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern life. As the capital of Italy, it’s packed with cultural and historical sites, making it a must-visit for history lovers, art enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to experience the vibrant Italian atmosphere. Indeed, it’s home to some of the most iconic landmarks, incluidng the Colosseum and the Vatican, which are certainly bucket list worthy. On top of this, the lively piazzas, bustling markets, and delicious food make Rome a perfect place to experience Italy’s vivacious culture.
• Venice is like nowhere else on earth and understandably attractions millions every year. The labyrinth of canals, its romantic ambiance and the unique architecture of Venetian Gothic buildings, really make it something special and it’s the perfect place for anyone looking for a mix of magic, tranquility, and plenty of history.
• Milan is Italy’s fashion and design capital, as well as a thriving business hub. It’s a great city for those interested in high-end shopping, modern art, and architecture, while still boasting plenty of opportunity to explore a variety of rich historical sites. The food scene is also spectacular with everything from popular local specialities like risotto alla Milanese to fine dining experiences.

Lakes and mountains

Yet another highlight and side of Italy holidays is it’s alluring lakes and mountains. Whether you’re looking for serene waters, stunning alpine landscapes, or outdoor adventure, Italy’s lakes and mountains provide a perfect setting for everything from romance to family trips.

• Lake Como is one of Italy’s most famous lakes, offering beautiful views, charming towns, and luxurious villas. In fact, Bellagio, a town set against the serene backdrop of Lake Como, is often called the “Pearl of the lake”, offering quaint, winding streets, luscious green gardens, and panoramic views. You can 3explore the surrounding towns and villas from the water with an enchanting boat trip across this impressive Lake.
• The Dolomites are an UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for their dramatic mountain peaks, alpine meadows, and charming mountain villages. It’s the perfect region for those seeking outdoor adventures, from skiing in the winter to hiking and mountain biking in the summer. Everyone from adventure enthusiats to nature lovers and culture buffs will thrive in the Dolomites.
• Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy, surrounded by beautiful lakeside towns like Malcesine and Sirmione, which are full of charm and character. It’s known for its mild climate, making it perfect for outdoor activities all year-round and the surrounding mountains provide a dramatic backdrop from every viewpoint. From windsurfing and sailking to hiking and cylcing, even touring historic castles, it’s a great spot for family holidays in Italy.

Places to go

Italy holidays offers something for every kind of traveler, from history and culture to beaches and natural beauty. Whether you want to relax by the sea, explore ancient ruins, or savor amazing food, Italy’s diverse regions will ensure your holiday is unforgettable.

• Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance, making it a go to spot and the ideal destination for art and history lovers. Wander around the Uffizi Gallery, which is home to masterpieces by famous names like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, then head to Ponte Vecchio to stroll across the medieval bridge and admire its resillience against WW2. To add some natural beauty into your day, the Boboli Gardens provide a peaceful escape so you can enjoy the quiet and the lovely views.
• The Amalfi Coast is known for its dramatic cliffs, crystal clear waters and picturesque towns, so it’s a must-visit on holiday in Italy. Embrace the charming and colourful towns of Positano, Amalfi and Ravello, where you can meander through quaint piazzas, soak in the stunning views and make the most of some luxurious, upscale shopping.
• Another incredible place to go in Italy is the diverse island of Sicily with its beautiful beaches, ancient ruins and mix of cultures. Head to the Valley of the Temples to see the famous Ancient Greek ruins and in particular, one of the best preserved Greek ruins of all, the Temple of Concordia. In Taormina you can step back in time at the ancient Greek theatre, while in Palermo, the capital of Sicily, you can get stuck into the vibrant culture and bustling markets.

Things to see

Italy is a country bursting with iconic landmarks, breathtaking landscapes, and centuries of history. Whether you’re into art, architecture, nature, or food, a holiday to Italy will be right up your street. From famous monuments to hidden gems, Italy is a wonder.

• The Colosseum should indeed be your first stop in Rome, afterall, it is of the most famous ancient landmarks in the world. This monumental amphitheater that is actually the largest ampitheatre ever built, once hosted gladiatorial combat and other public spectacles for over 50,000 people. Explore the grounds on a guided tour, step back through history and admire the incredible architecture.
• Also in Rome is The Vatican, the spiritual heart of Catholicism and home to the Pope. Visit the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s famous ceiling, wander through the Vatican Gardens and climb to the dome of St Peter’s Basilica to enjoy the stunning views across Rome.
• A fun and awe-inspiring sight to see is the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Known for it’s distinct tilt, it’s one of the world’s most recognisable structures and you can climb all the way to the top to soak in the views over Pisa. It’s a must-do to snap some fun photos with the tower in the background!
• A slightly different sight to see in Italy is Mounta Etna, in Sicily. It is Europe’s most active and impcatful volcano, shaping the lanscape here for centuries. Hop on the cable car to the summit and admire the picturesque views as you ascend, or if you’re up for the hike, you can go on foot – the reward at the top is certainly worth it!

Italian cuisine

Italian cuisine is known for its rich variety, simplicity, and emphasis on fresh, high-quality produce and local ingredients. It’s a celebration of flavors and regional diversity, with each area of Italy offering its own unique take – but each dish as delicious as the next.

• Olive oil is central to almost all Italian dishes, whether it’s used for cooking, dressing or dipping, along with garlic which is a staple for flavourful foods. Cheeses, in particular Parmigiano-Reggiano, mozzarella and ricotta, as well as pasta, in almost of shapes and types, are two more key ingredients in Italian cuisine, as you might expect.
• A classic Margherita pizza from Naples is a must-have, afterall, it is thought of as the birthplace for pizza. Loaded with basil, toamto sauce and mozzerella it’s a simple yet iconic. Similarly, a classic lasange or carbonara is entirely different when made in Italy. There will be plenty of new dishes on the menus too, if you haven’t tried Ossobuco, braised veal shanks cooked in a rich broth and often served with risotto, then that’s a must-try!
• The famous Italian dessert of Tiramasu will be found on almost every restaurant menu. Made of layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa, it’s a divine dish complimented by a shot of limoncello or espresso.

Nightlife in Italy

Italy’s nightlife offers a fantastic range of experiences, from bustling cities with vibrant clubs and bars to more tranquil towns where you can enjoy a relaxed evening. Whether you’re looking for lively party scenes to enjoy late night dancing with friends or intimate spots for a quiet drink just the two of you, there’s something for every taste.

• Being Italy’s fashion capital, you can expect the nightlife in Milan to reflect this too. Full of trendy clubs and high end bars it’s a great place for a glamorous night out. Alcatraz is a popular club for electronic music and DJs, while Nottingham Forest is a cool cocktail bar that offers unique and fun concoctions.
• Rome’s nightlife is not so different weith a mix of traditional and modern bars, all boasting an energetic vibe. Shari Vari Playhouse is trendy nightclub with a mix of music genres and or if cocktails are more up your street, head to the Jerry Thomas Speakeasy which is a hidden gem offering expertly crafted cocktails.
• There’s quieter nightlife scenes too, perfect for a stroll outside, followed by dinner and drinks. Head to the Amalfi Coast to sip on cocktails with picturesque views overlooking the sea, or enjoy the local wine bars and trattorias in Tuscany. The nightlife in the Neapolitan Riviera, in particular Positano’s evenings, offers an edgy vibe and a mix of clubs, bars, and lounges too.