Last Minute Holidays to Italy

Book a last minute holiday to Italy and make memories that'll last a lifetime

With flights from the UK at just under two and a half hours, a last minute holiday to Italy means less time in the air, and more time exploring or lounging on the beach – ideal for those who like to get value for money.

The pace of life in Italy is distinctly laid back, meaning last minute visitors are always welcome. Spend days people watching outside cafes, window shopping in an array of designer shops and enjoying beautiful scenery during walking excursions or beach days.

Laze by the sea, swim in glassy lakes and explore iconic cities such as

Rome and Venice before heading out for an evening meal to sample delicious wines, succulent cold meats and authentic pasta and

pizza dishes.

For a beach holiday with the option of sightseeing, the Neapolitan Riviera is hard to beat. With one of Europe’s most lauded stretches of coastline, charming fishing villages and lush scenery, you can also explore ancient castles, impressive churches and beautiful gardens. The world-famous Pompeii is just a short distance away, so history buffs will be in their element.

For an iconic break with lashings of Italian style, the Venetian Riviera is worth considering. With the floating city of

Venice to explore, pretty coastal resorts and a rich culture, it promises a classic Italian getaway. And, for a sightseeing holiday like no other, a trip to Rome has a seemingly never-ending selection of iconic sites to discover, including the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, Piazza Navona, the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, which all promise extensive Instagram opportunities.

The best time of year to book your last minute holiday to Italy

If you want a last minute suntan, head over in the summer months – in July, temperatures sizzle around 26°C and often even hotter, offering ideal conditions for lazy beach days. Those more into sightseeing than sunbathing could consider going in the shoulder seasons of April, May, September or October, when temperatures are milder but still warm.

Booking up to eight weeks before departure ensures the biggest choice of last minute deals to Italy. However, it’s possible to book the day before departure so spontaneous travellers can secure a last minute deal right up to the wire.

Other last minute holiday destinations

If you fancy Italy but haven’t quite decided yet, there are plenty of other last minute holiday options.

Greece and its islands are always a popular choice offering an inviting mix of beachlife and culture. Spain’s sun drenched coastline is another good choice offering a classic beach holiday with a dash of flamenco flavour. And, for something a little bit different, the Cape Verde Islands, with their glistening beaches and sunny climate are hard to beat.

If Italy has captured your imagination, however, check out our travel guide for help on planning your trip. Here are a selection of hotels to get you started.

San Pietro Hotel

Welcoming and traditional, the San Pietro Hotel is ideally situated close to the centre of Maiori so is an ideal sightseeing base. There’s a pool with sun terraces to enjoy and sporty types can make the most of the hotel tennis courts. The buffet restaurant serves up a delicious breakfast, a la carte lunch and dinner as well as a bar and pool bar for liquid refreshment and light snacks. Other features include a playroom and billiards.

Jaccarino Hotel

With a free shuttle service to Sorrento, sea views and a range of facilities the Jaccarino Hotel is an attractive hotel. The delightful swimming pool offers sea views and is surrounded by loungers and umbrellas, providing a venue for compete relaxation. Free Wi-Fi zones will keep you connected while those in need of a refreshing drink or meal can head to the hotel restaurant, poolside snack bar or lounge bar.

Britannia Hotel

Sea views, just a 20-minute walk from Sorrento and with its own roof terrace overlooking the Gulf of Naples, the Britannia Hotel has classic Italian holiday written all over it. The lounge areas provide relaxing venues in which to play the days sightseeing while the bar is on hand for drinks. Rooms are light and airy and offer free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning and satellite TV. The historic site of Pompeii is just 27 kilometres away and well worth visiting.