Italy Travel Insights

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour - 10 Days

This 10-day itinerary features a perfect mix of culture, history, adventure, and relaxation. Explore ancient Greek and Roman cities, medieval hilltop towns dotted with ornate baroque buildings, and coastal ramparts. Begin in Sicily's regional capital of Palermo and drive your way around the Italian island to end in Catania. You'll visit stunning landscapes, like Trapani's historic salt pans, sip fortified wine in charming Marsala,  and dine on fresh seafood in sophisticated Taormina.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour - 9 Days

Enjoy cultural and historical experiences on this 9-day circuit of Sicily beginning in the regional capital of Palermo, a cultural melting pot, and ending in lively Catania. Along the way, you'll visit stunning landscapes, like the limestone cliffs of Scala dei Turchi, roam ancient Greek and Roman ruins at Agrigento and Syracuse, and learn to cook a traditional Sicilian meal in Taormina.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour with Aeolian Islands - 11 Days

Enjoy this 11-day itinerary from Catania to explore the Aeolian Islands before picking up your rental car and continuing to circle Sicily. Starting with the regional capital of Palermo, you'll dive into its colorful history and impressive architecture on a city tour, then discover the ridgetop temples of Agrigento and the Greek and Roman ruins of Syracuse, capping off the trip with a hike up Mount Etna.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour with Aeolian Islands - 12 Days

This 12-day grand tour of Sicily is a perfect mix of culture and adventure and includes four nights on the Aeolian Islands. Beginning and ending in Catania, you'll discover historic ruins on Lipari, soak in a mud bath on Vulcano, and go on a sunset hike of Stromboli before picking up your rental car in Milazzo. Tour Palermo, the regional capital, wander amid the impressive Greek temples in Agrigento, and enjoy a passeggiata along Syracuse's seaside promenade in Ortygia.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour with Aeolian Islands - 13 Days

Perfectly blending culture and history with adventure, this 13-day tour starts in the regional capital of Palermo and takes you to three of the Aeolian Islands. You'll pick up your rental car and check out the popular Lungomare beach in Cefalù, discover the impressive Norman-Byzantine Monreale Cathedral, and wander amid the ridgetop temples in Agrigento. From there, you'll explore the tightly woven network of narrow and winding alleys in Ortygia, hike Mount Etna, Europe's largest volcano, and end your trip in Catania, Sicily's next largest city.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour with Aeolian Islands - 14 Days

Spend two weeks delving into Sicily's historic and cultural highlights on this complete itinerary. Discover remote island settlements on Stromboli, meander and climb the narrow laneways and staircases in Modica, Ragusa Ibla, and Scicli,  and dine on fresh seafood in sophisticated Taormina. You'll begin and end in lively Catania and spend four nights on the Aeolian Islands before picking up your rental car and touring the Italian island from Palermo to Taormina, with Cefalù, Agrigento, and Syracuse in between.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour with Aeolian Islands - 15 Days

Explore Sicily's highlights, including four days on three of the Aeolian Islands, on this 15-day itinerary. Starting from Catania, you'll head to Milazzo and on to Lipari, Vulcano, and Stromboli to relax in mud baths and on black sand beaches, and to hike the Stromboli volcano. Visit Palermo, the regional capital before checking out the Greek and Roman ruins of Agrigento and Syracuse and ending the trip with a cooking class in the elegant seaside town of Taormina.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour with Aeolian Islands - 16 Days

Experience the highlights of Sicily on this in-depth tour. Beginning and ending in Catania, you'll cover the Italian island as well as spend some time exploring the impressive Aeolian Islands. You'll visit ancient Greek, Roman, and Norman ruins, medieval fortressed towns dotted with ornate baroque buildings and stunning beaches. Discover remote island settlements on Stromboli, meander and climb the narrow laneways and staircases in Modica, Ragusa Ibla, and Scicli,  and dine on fresh seafood in sophisticated Taormina.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour - 8 Days

Featuring a combination of culture, adventure, and relaxation, this eight-day self-drive tour of Sicily will bring you to the regional capital of Palermo, the Greek temple ruins of Agrigento, and the brilliant Baroque laneways and staircases of Ragusa Ibla, Modica, and Scicli. Marvel at the impressive Norman-Byzantine details of Monreale Cathedral, hike the slopes of Mount Etna and take in the breathtaking scenery in Savoca and Forza D'Agrò.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour - 7 Days

Discover Sicily's historic and scenic highlights with this seven-day self-drive itinerary. Starting in the regional capital of Palermo, you'll spend time discovering the Norman-Byzantine Monreale Cathedral before cutting across the island to explore the Greek temple ruins of Agrigento. Cap off the trip with four nights in Catania, the perfect access point to the Sicilian-Baroque cities of Ragusa Ibla, Modica, and Scicli, as well as the historic Syracuse and the elegant seaside town of Taormina.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour - 12 Days

This complete 12-day self-drive tour covers Sicily's best, from cultural stops in baroque-infused cities to the exploration of ancient Greek and Roman temples and archaeological parks. Explore medieval hilltop towns, lively markets, ancient ruins, and old Norman castles. You'll sip fortified wine in Marsala, hike the slopes of active Mount Etna, and relax on Cefalù's inviting golden-sand Lungomare beach.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour - 11 Days

Enjoy this 11-day self-drive itinerary around the Italian island where you'll begin in Palermo and end your stay in Catania. Along the way, stop to explore medieval hilltop towns and baroque cities, wander amid ancient Greek and Roman ruins, hike active Mount Etna, and choose from a number of stunning beaches along the coast. Catch a sunset over the Trapani salt ponds, sample fortified wine in charming Marsala, and learn to cook a 4-course Sicilian meal in Taormina.

Cities and Nature in Italy: Milan, Lake Como, Florence & Cinque Terre - 7 Days

Balance your travels between the city and countryside with this week-long itinerary. In between the art and history found on the busy streets of Milan and Florence, you'll also visit the peaceful villas of Lake Como, the seaside towns of Cinque Terre, and the vineyards of Chianti.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour - 13 Days

This 13-day grand tour of the Sicilian island perfectly blends culture and history with adventure. Start in the regional capital of Palermo and wander the historic centers of Trapani and Erice before spending a little time on the Aegadi Islands. Visit the impressive Valley of the Temples and sprawling mosaics of Villa Romana del Casale, discover ornate baroque architecture in Noto, Modica, and Scicli, and lose yourself in the maze of narrow streets and underground passageways of Syracuse's Ortygia Island.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour - 14 Days

Follow this two-week circuit around Sicily for unique cultural experiences, hiking adventures, and coastal relaxation. Begin on the northern shore in cultural-melting-pot, Palermo before heading to Trapani and the Aegadi Islands in the west. Wander amid Roman ruins and extensive mosaics in Agrigento, get lost in the baroque cities of Modica, Ragusa Ibla, and Scicli and their medieval centers, wind through crypts and catacombs in historic Ortygia, and relax along the Ionian Sea enjoying fresh-caught seafood in Taormina.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour - 15 Days

Enjoy culture, history, adventure, and relaxation on this 15-day Sicily highlights tour, starting and ending in Palermo. Discover the monuments and markets of the regional capital, visit ancient Greek and Roman ruins in Syracuse, wander the narrow and winding streets of Ragusa Ibla, and swim in the inviting Tyrrhenian Sea off of Cefalù. You'll explore the medieval core of Erice, visit historic palazzi in Menfi, marvel at the expansive mosaics in Villa Romana del Casale, and hike Mount Etna.

6 Days in Italy - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

If you have six days in Italy, it's best to keep things simple and focus on one or two destinations. Divide your time between Rome and the Amalfi Coast, spend a few days sipping wine or cycling through country roads in Tuscany, hike through the villages of the Cinque Terre, or enjoy the luxury of private tours in Venice and Florence: find out how with these five unique itineraries.

Palermo and Surroundings - 5 Days

Enjoy northwestern Sicily's top city with this 5-day tour of Palermo and its surroundings. Go on a street food tour of the regional capital after admiring the city's intricate baroque architecture before making a day trip to the stunning Doric temple of Segesta. End your quick trip with a day spent in the popular seaside town of Cefalù where you'll climb the Rocca for striking views, swim in the inviting Tyrrhenian Sea, and sip an afternoon apertivo while taking in the setting sun.

Palermo and Surroundings - 8 Days

Discover Palermo and its surroundings on this in-depth tour of Sicily's regional capital. A cultural melting pot, Palermo is home to stunning monuments and vibrant markets, not to mention a mouthwatering food scene waiting to be explored. Start in Palermo to uncover its colorful history, see the 2,400-year-old Greek temple of Segesta, wander the medieval hilltop town of Erice, and spend a full day visiting Cefalù on Sicily's northern shore.

Palermo and Surroundings - 7 Days

Explore Palermo, Sicily's regional capital, and its nearby surroundings on this 7-day tour of the island's northwest. A cultural melting pot, Palermo is home to stunning baroque monuments and bustling markets, as well as a mouthwatering street food scene. You'll begin in Palermo with a visit to the Norman-Byzantine Monreale Cathedral, find your way to the millennia-old Greek temple of Segesta, and spend a day in the coastal town of Cefalù.

Palermo and Surroundings - 6 Days

Uncover Sicily's colorful history and culture on this 6-day itinerary focused on Palermo and its nearby popular attractions. Begin in the lively regional capital and discover the stunning baroque monuments, vibrant markets, and delicious food scene. Find your way to Monreale to check out its 12th-century cathedral, ride the cable car up to the hilltop town of Erice, and visit the 2,400-year-old Doric temple of Segesta.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour - 16 Days

Explore the highlights of Sicily as you circumnavigate the Italian island starting and ending in the regional capital of Palermo, a cultural melting pot with stunning monuments and vibrant markets. Along the way, you will explore ancient Greek, Roman, and Norman ruins, medieval fortressed towns dotted with ornate baroque buildings and stunning beaches. You'll trek coastal trails in the beautiful Zingaro Nature Reserve, sip fortified wine in charming Marsala,  and dine on fresh seafood in sophisticated Taormina.

15 Days in Italy - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 15 days in Italy, you can easily see many of the country's highlights, or slow down and get to know one or two regions. Take advantage of the city's high-speed trains to see Venice, Florence, and the Amalfi Coast, or take your time exploring Sicily or Tuscany. Sip wine in Chianti, hike the Cinque Terre, cruise around the Lakes Region, or take the family to Rome: these five unique itineraries have something for everyone.

13 Days in Italy - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

If you have 13 days in Italy, the sky's the limit. Take a grand tour around the country to hit the top sights, delve into a specific region, like Tuscany or Sicily, or do a bit of both. Divide your time between Rome and the laid-back Amalfi Coast, tour the islands around Venice on a boat, or focus on northern Italy and its lakes and mountains with these great itineraries.

12 Days in Italy - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Travelers with 12 days to spend in Italy have plenty of options—you can hit multiple major cities or enjoy an in-depth tour of one region like Sicily or the Italian Lakes. Trek through the scenic coastal villages of the Cinque Terre, see the lakes and mountains of the north, explore the quiet side roads of Sicily, or go on a grand tour that takes you to Rome, Venice, and Florence: these five unique itineraries show you how to make the most of your stay.

11 Days in Italy - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 11 days in Italy, you could focus your time on a single region, like Sicily or Tuscany. Or you could take advantage of the country's high-speed train network and visit several destinations. See the art and architecture of Florence, cruise around Lake Como, climb to the top of Mount Etna, take a pizza-making class in Rome, or sample locally produced cheeses and wines on a food-focused tour of Italy: find out how with these five unique itineraries.

Getaway to Tuscany & Rome - 6 Days

Spend six days visiting historical sites, eating delicious food, and relaxing in Italy. Start in Tuscany for a wine tour of the Chianti region and admire the beautiful villages of the Italian countryside. Catch a high-speed train to Rome and explore the Eternal City with visits to the Vatican City and Colosseum, then round out your trip with a food tour of the city's famous markets and gelaterias.

Ultimate Guide to Lucca: Laidback City Retreat in Tuscany

Ringed by Italy's most impressive and intact medieval walls, lovely Lucca often plays second fiddle to Florence and Siena, but opt instead for this highly cultured città and you won't be disappointed. Beyond the amphitheater-shaped piazza lies a delightfully walkable city, brimming with centuries-old towers and churches, hidden alleyways and botanical gardens, and restaurants that play up the bounty of farm-fresh Tuscan produce.

How Many Days to Spend in Tuscany

Whether you have two days or two weeks, Tuscany is a wonderful destination. Travelers short on time should focus their energy on Florence and the wine region of Chianti, while those with five days can road-trip to medieval highlights like Siena and San Gimignano. With a week, slow down and take a pasta-making class—and with 10 days or more, spend some time exploring Tuscany's gorgeous coast. Read on for advice on how many days to spend in the region.

Sicily in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

December welcomes Christmas and New Year visitors looking to spend the holidays in Sicily's festive towns and cities. An excellent month to peruse Christmas markets, feast on local Sicilian delicacies, and explore ancient Greek and Roman ruins with next to no crowds.

Sicily in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

While the weather is a little rainier than the rest of the year, November remains an excellent month for urban and cultural exploration as well as a possible beach day. November also ushers in wine season with St. Martin's Day kicking off a host of festivals celebrating seasonal fare and, of course, wine. Let this monthly guide help you find the best places to visit and things to do.

Sicily in October: Travel Tips, Weather & More

October is an ideal time of year to visit Sicily and explore its popular attractions without the crowds. Plus, the weather is pleasant enough to entice beachgoers and harvest festivals are plenty. Let this monthly guide help you find the best places to visit and things to do.

Sicily in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

September is a fantastic month to experience Sicily as the summer weather continues and the crowds start to thin. There are endless options to take advantage of, from outdoor activities and cultural events to wine-and-food festivals, though if you're in search of a bargain you'll want to look toward the end of the month. Read on to learn more about visiting the Italian island in September.

Sicily in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

August is the last full month of Sicily's lively (and pricey) high season. The weather is sunny and hot, perfect for beach days and all things watersport related, though you'll have to contend with the hordes of foreign and local tourists. Don't let that deter you though, as this guide will tell you what to do and where to go.

Sicily in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Without a doubt, July is Sicily's most popular time for travelers. The weather is hot and sunny, the Mediterranean is warm and inviting, and there are a host of fun and lively cultural and musical events that take place throughout the month and all over the island. Read on for more tips on where to go and what to expect in Sicily this month.

Sicily in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Sicily begins to heat up in June; the weather is beach-perfect drawing holidaymakers to the coastline and popular cultural attractions. And though you'll have to contend with the crowds, there are plenty of destinations to choose from in which to craft your perfect island holiday. Read this monthly guide to learn more.

Sicily in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

May is undoubtedly one of the best times to get outdoors and explore Sicily. The weather is consistently pleasant, the crowds aren't yet at their peak, and there are a number of fun and tasty festivals to experience, granting you an all-access pass to the Italian island. Find out what to do and where to go with this May guide.

Sicily in April: Travel Tips, Weather & More

The Italian island is green, lush, and dotted with blooming wildflowers and citrus fruit—with the entire country coming out for Easter festivities. Take advantage of the fewer crowds and cheaper airfare during this shoulder season month and get yourself outdoors to experience all that Sicily has to offer. Read this monthly guide for more.

Sicily in March: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Spring has sprung along the coast while there's still snow in the mountains and on Mount Etna, perfect for travelers looking to do it all. Tourist numbers are low, and prices for accommodation and flights remain attractive, making this an ideal time to see uncrowded popular attractions or head outdoors to hike, bike, and get in some skiing.

Sicily in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

February is the tail end of Sicily's short winter, offering snowy adventures on the island's highest peaks, blossoming almond trees in the south, and massive festivals—as well as fewer tourists and lower prices. A predominantly Catholic region, Sicily gets into festive spirits around Lent and Carnivale, kicking off the coming of spring with Mardi Gras celebrations across the country. Find out what to do and where to go with this February guide.

Sicily in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Sicily's first month of the year is also its wettest. But with the rainy weather comes the start of Carnival season, fewer crowds, and lower costs than other times of the year. This is also one of the best winter months to do a little skiing on the slopes of Mount Etna.

Best Active Adventures in Italy: Trek the Dolomites, Cycle Through Tuscany, Ski the Alps, & More

From the snow-dusted Alps to Liguria's coastal trails to the bright blue water of the Lakes Region, Italy's landscapes have plenty to offer active travelers. Hike in the Dolomites, cycle through Tuscan vineyards, windsurf on Lago di Garda, or ski on the snowy slopes of South Tyrol — read on for advice and itinerary suggestions for the best active adventures in Italy.

Ultimate Guide to Turin, Italy: Coffee, Piazzas, and Palaces in the Piedmont Capital

Famous as the home of Fiat, Alfa Romeo, and the Turin Shroud, the capital of Italy’s Piedmont region is a fine Baroque city of grand palaces and piazzas on the River Po. Come to learn about the shroud and its royal Savoy rulers, and stay for the soaring Mole Antonelliana; the original Eataly and first Lavazza coffeehouse; its ancient Egypt museum and the local vermouth. Learn more about what to do, see, and eat in Turin below.

Beyond Lake Como: 6 Enchanting Alternatives in the Italian Lakes Region

Head to the north of Italy and you'll find stunning alpine lakes, the most famous of which is Lago di Como. But there are plenty of lesser-known bodies of water in the region that rival the beauty of Como—let this guide take you to the islands of Maggiore, the crystalline waters of Garda, and beyond.

6 Unique Experiences in Sicily: Food, Nature, and History Beyond the Highlights

Like the proverbial iceberg, the bulk of Sicily's allure and natural beauty exist just beneath the surface. Beyond the major tourist sites, there are lesser-visited offshore islands, remote coastline with secluded beaches, and delicious street food found in cobbled alleyways. It's on excursions like these that you'll get to the true heart of Sicily.

Ultimate Guide to Sicily: Palermo, Syracuse, Mount Etna, & Beyond

Sicily is a cultural melting pot. Greek and Roman ruins, hilltop fortress towns, and Arab and Norman palaces are a testament to the island's legacy of foreign conquest. You'll get a vivid sense of this history as you drive Sicily's coastal roads, travel over its inland mountain ranges, sample its delectable cuisine, and stroll the cobbled streets of its historic cities—and this guide will help you make the most out of all of it.

Ultimate Guide to Tuscany: Florence, Chianti, Siena, and Beyond

Tuscany is a dream destination for travelers from all over the world. From the medieval towers of San Gimignano and the art galleries of Florence to the wineries of Chianti and the beaches of the Maremma, the region has something for everyone. Learn more about what to do, where to go, what to eat, and where to stay with this ultimate guide to Tuscany.

Ultimate Guide to Siena: Medieval Jewel of Tuscany

Siena is the Gothic masterpiece of sunny Tuscany. Come for the impressive Duomo cathedral and medieval museums, stay for cheerful gelato shops, quiet botanical gardens, and a leisurely glass of Chianti (or two) with a view of famous Piazza del Campo. Find out what to do, where to stay, and what to eat with this ultimate guide to the city.

Tuscany in December: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

Dark and chilly December brightens up in the weeks leading up to Christmas and New Year's Eve, attracting visitors to Tuscany's decked-out villages, towns, and cities. This is a great month to hit the slopes, wander a holiday market, and feast on local Tuscan delicacies.

Tuscany in November: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

While the weather has turned grey and rainy, November sees fewer crowds, lower-priced accommodation, and Tuscany's largest truffle fair in medieval San Miniato. Discover the region's cultural attractions: museums and galleries, monuments and castles.