Tours to Italy

From colourful hilltop houses in Positano to rolling Tuscan hills scattered with vineyards, Italy is rich in culture and history. And of course it’s famous for its food and drink – there’s no place for diets with stone-baked pizza, fresh pasta and world-class wines on offer.
 

Whether you’re walking the Amalfi Coast or exploring Roman ruins in Sicily on our small group tours, our local tour leader will show you the must-sees of Italy, as well as the hidden gems we have uncovered. Discover unique Trulli houses and medieval towns by bike in Puglia or hike the village trails around Lake Garda - with so much variety in one country, which Italy tour will you choose?

On our Upgraded – Walking Italy: Rome & Umbria tour, it’s not just the food, drink and sights you’ll soak up – but your accommodation, too. In Umbria, you’ll stay in a hilltop resort in a renovated medieval hamlet with views of the surrounding olive groves and lush countryside, and in Rome you’ll enjoy the ultimate Roman holiday at a premium-rated hotel. Bellissimo! 

Don't miss the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site – their dramatic, pale limestone peaks are unlike any other mountain range. You'll encounter stunning turquoise lakes, lush green valleys, and alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers; a true hikers paradise. Go hiking in the Dolomites and trek with breathtaking views of Tre Cime before unwinding in Dobbiaco, the small town that's the gateway to the mountains. Or why not upgrade your stay at a four-star spa-hotel in charming Campitello. During the week, you'll take in incredible views of the iconic Marmolada peak, sample traditional Trentino dishes and have the chance to visit the famous Iceman Otzi.

Our affordable Family Amalfi Coast Adventure is suitable for children aged 11 and over and promises a stress-free week of fun and relaxation. You'll stay at a family-run hotel in the beautiful village of Bomerano, but it's more than just a place to stay: think genuine Italian hospitality, authentic meals and a swimming pool perfect for cooling off in. During this eight-day tour, all ages will enjoy making pasta and pizza, paddling through turquoise waters on a sea kayaking trip and visiting Pompeii. There's also our Family Sicily Multi-Activity Adventure (also suitable for children aged 11 and over), where you'll make gnocchi, spend time at Madonie Adventure Park and join a rib boat to a marine park for snorkelling exploration.
 

If you're new to Explore, check out our blog answering some of the most-asked questions about small group travel. 

We've got a wide range of small group Italy holidays on offer, from walking the Amalfi coast to cycling in the Dolomites to tours of the historic sites of Sicily. 
 

Our tours offer a huge range of experiences across Italy, but some of the highlights include: 
 

Amalfi Coast

Head to the sun-drenched coast for quintessential Italian landscapes. Popular with hikers, the scenic 'Path of the Gods' trail hugs the picturesque coastline and rewards walkers with breathtaking views out to sea. Our popular small-group walking trip to the Amalfi Coast walking trip includes the 'Path of the Gods' as well as a ridge walk with views to Mount Vesuvius and a trip to the island of Capri.

Another option to explore the area is to cycle to the Amalfi Coast from Cilento National Park, stopping along the way to explore ancient ruins and try local food. And for less walking and more time exploring the cultural sites our Highlights of Naples and the Amalfi Coast trip includes a guided tour of Pompeii and Herculaneum, a visit to the fascinating cave dwellings of Sassi di Matera and a mouth-watering cheese and wine tasting.

Puglia

Located in the 'heel' of Italy, Puglia is known for it's whitewashed hill towns and unique trulli houses - dry stone huts with conical roofs. It's also one of the best places to visit for delicious traditional Italian food. No matter whether you choose a cultural, walking or cycling trip in Puglia, food and drink will be a focal point in the itinerary. From pasta-making classes and olive oil tasting to cheese and wine experiences, you're guaranteed not to go hungry!

Sicily

A Mediterranean island just off the coast of Italy, Sicily is home to captivating Ancient Greek ruins and the mighty Mount Etna, Europe's highest and most active volcano. If you're into history spend a week exploring the historic sites, including the impressive Valley of the Temples, on the popular Classical Sicily tour. Or our two-week Ancient Sicily trip covers more of the island including the Neapolis Archaeological Zone.   

Tuscany

Head to central Italy for views of rolling hills packed with vineyards and topped with medieval towns. We offer guided trips in Tuscany where you'll get to explore this peaceful landscape, delight in farm-to-table dining experiences and taste local wine on vineyard tours in Chianti.

The Italian Lakes

Discover the scenic Italian Lakes by foot or by bike. We offer small-group trips like our Lake Como walking trip and Cycle Dolomites, Lake Garda and Venice tour. 

Solo tours in Italy

All of our Italy holidays are suitable for solo travellers. Around half of our customers travel solo so you certainly won't be the only person travelling on your own. Our small-group tours offer great opportunities to meet like-minded travellers and share your experiences.