Italy Travel Blog

Latest Articles

Just back: Valeria's Research Trip to Umbria and Tuscany

On a research trip to Umbria and Tuscany, our Europe specialist, Valeria, discovered that the best way to explore the Italian countryside is by car. During her road trip, she marvelled at Marmore Falls, admired the beautiful views over Lake Trasimeno and wandered through the UNESCO-listed village of Castiglione d'Orcia. From cooking classes to wine tastings, her trip was jam-packed with Italian delights.

Reasons to Visit Italy in May

With its iconic landmarks, stunning scenery and famously delicious cuisine, Italy has long ranked as one of our all-time favourite destinations. This Mediterranean marvel is often thought of as a summer spot, but plan your trip to Italy in May and you’ll be rewarded with warm weather, fewer crowds, springtime festivals and scrumptious seasonal food. Have we piqued your interest? Read on for our top five reasons to visit Italy in May…   For the weather For fewer crowds For springtime festivities For outdoor activities For the food   For the weather Italy,

Reasons to Visit Italy in September

Dodge the summer surge and enjoy a holiday to Italy in September. Scale the dramatic Dolomites in the refreshing autumn air, raise your glass in the Tuscan hills during grape harvest season or immerse yourself in Venice’s flamboyant festivities. If it’s thinning crowds you’re after, head south to Puglia’s charming coastal towns, or for sun-drenched sandy beaches, Sicily has your name written all over it.

Most Beautiful Islands in Italy

Italy’s marvellous mainland is high on every traveller’s bucket list (and rightly so). But did you know that there are around 450 islands in Italy? Whether you’re searching for otherworldly beaches, ancient history or picturesque villages, Italy’s scene-stealing islands deliver. From the large and legendary to the best off-the-beaten-track beauties, read on for our roundup of the most beautiful islands in Italy.

Things to do in Verona

Whether you’re craving a relaxed city break or a high-energy weekend escape, Verona’s got you covered. The Italian city is best known as the birthplace of Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers, but there’s more to fair Verona. Swoon over the mouthwatering cuisine, fall head over heels for the Roman architecture that earned Verona its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site or savour the scenery at Piazzale Castel San Pietro.

Reasons to Visit Italy in October

October ushers in Italy’s harvest season, bringing lively chestnut festivals and lush rolling vineyards as far as the eye can see. Free from summer’s hustle and bustle, an Italian holiday in autumn is all about colourful hiking trails, quiet coastlines and uninterrupted sightseeing. Whether winding your way through the Lake Como Greenway or sipping wine in the Tuscan hills, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Most Beautiful Villages in Puglia

Sitting pretty on the heel of mainland Italy, Puglia boasts rugged coastlines, turquoise waters and sprawling countryside dotted with olive groves and orchards. And, as if that’s not inviting enough, Puglia is home to numerous postcard-perfect villages that perfectly encapsulate ‘la dolce vita’ (the sweet life). Whether you’d like to learn about age-old culinary traditions, admire medieval architectural masterpieces or simply wander through the cobbled streets in the sunshine, Puglia’s got you covered.

Just Back: Emily’s Research Trip to Italy

When it comes to Italy’s most beloved cities, Milan and Florence are two of its most sparkling crown jewels. Our Europe specialist, Emily, fell in love with them during a recent research trip which saw her scouting out the best hotels, scaling the Duomo’s rooftop, tasting traditional Milanese delicacies and even discovering a new favourite museum. Interested in learning more about la dolce vita in Milan and Florence?

The Most Beautiful Cities in Italy

Italy is undoubtedly one of the prettiest places on the planet, and it’s no wonder that it’s the fifth most visited country in the world. Home to soaring snow-capped mountains, shimmering lakes, idyllic vineyards and a breathtaking coastline, the country’s natural splendour is abundant. Italy’s beauty comes in many forms, however, and you’ll find equally enchanting vistas throughout the urban cityscapes; Renaissance facades, ancient palazzos and Baroque basilicas juxtapose contemporary skyscrapers and boutique bistros.

Good Lucca Charm: Tom Barber’s Annual Family Bike Ride

In a longstanding family tradition, every year Original Travel Co-founder Tom Barber takes his children and parents on a bike ride around the medieval walls of the lovely Tuscan city of Lucca. It’s the perfect 3G (Three Generational) experience. Most of the time. It’s official: my children are spoilt rotten. Having a father who founded a travel company specialising in tailor-made family holidays means they’ve been lucky enough to visit some of the most magical destinations in the world.

The Best Road Trips in Italy

Driving in the land of la dolce vita can be intimidating. Honking horns, reckless overtaking and tailgating are all (unfortunately) part and parcel of an Italian road trip holiday. But as soon as you hit the road, you’ll forget all about these anxieties – there’s no better way to experience the country’s beauty than on a road trip. Read on for our pick of the ten best road trips in Italy, whether it’s snaking through the towering Dolomites, cruising across Sicily, or rolling along the glittering Amalfi Coast.

Why Visit Sardinia?

Sitting pretty in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, Sardinia can’t help but be the centre of attention. Offering generous servings of sunshine, impossibly turquoise waters and a laid-back way of life, this Italian island’s beauty speaks for itself... yet we can’t help but shout about it. From discovering a diet that prolongs life (yes, really) to exploring its rich Roman history, read on to discover our favourite reasons to visit Sardinia on your next holiday to Italy.

Our Guide to Visiting the Venice Biennale

Dreamlike Venice might be best known for its gliding gondolas, handsome facades and teal canals, but it’s also the site of one of the most important events in the cultural calendar, La Biennale di Venezia. First established in Italy in 1895, the Venice Biennale is often likened to an ‘art world Olympics’, where artists exhibiting for their countries compete for the prestigious Golden Lion Prize. This year,

The Most Romantic Places in Italy

Lovers, listen up. From its culture-laden cities and quaint hilltop villages to its almost 5,000-mile-long sun-drenched coast, Italia is the destination to beat for a couple’s getaway. In the land of la dolce vita, which has more UNESCO World Heritage sites than any other country in the world, romance is practically built in. Eager to find out more? We’ve shortlisted the most romantic places in Italy, from the north to the southern tip of its boot, to inspire your next getaway.

The Most Beautiful Villages in Tuscany

There are some destinations that pull on your heartstrings, and Tuscany is most certainly one of them. Picture lovely landscapes dotted with cypress trees, olives groves and rolling wheat fields; Medieval villages perched high up in the hills; and shady trellises that act as the perfect spot to sit back, relax and soak up the views in Italy. Our experienced consultants have put together their guide to the most beautiful villages in Tuscany, so you can experience the region in all its glory.

100% tailor-made holidays

Understanding Your Needs

Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday

Personalisation

We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities

Our Services

All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges