Plan a Trip to Italy: A Step-by-Step Guide

Welcome, traveler!

You’re dreaming of Italy. Of wandering through ancient Roman ruins, savoring handmade pasta in a hidden trattoria, and watching the sunset over the hills of Tuscany. But you might also be feeling a little overwhelmed. Where do you even begin?

You're in the right place.

Guide to Italy is the definitive resource for curious, independent travelers who want to experience the real Italy, beyond the clichés. We don't do rushed, superficial tours. We provide you with exceptionally detailed guides, insider knowledge, and practical tools to help you design your own unforgettable Italian journey.

Think of us as your most trusted friend in Italy. Let's start planning.

Your first trip to Italy? Start with these three key steps.

Every great journey starts with a plan. We’ve distilled the most critical planning questions into four essential starting points. Each link will take you to one of our cornerstone guides, packed with the expert advice you need.

1. When is the best time to visit Italy?

Should you come for the summer sun, the pleasant spring weather, or the festive winter markets? The answer depends on your budget, tolerance for crowds, and travel style. We break down the climate, costs, and events for every season. → Read Our Complete Guide to Italy's Seasons

2. Where should you go in Italy?

For first-time visitors, the classic trio of Rome, Florence, and Venice offers an incredible introduction to Italy's art, history, and romance. But that's just the beginning. Our guides explore the best destinations for foodies, hikers, history buffs, and beach lovers. → Discover Italy's Top Destinations & Hidden Gems

3. How many days do you need in Italy?

Time is your most valuable asset. Whether you have one week or a full month, we have the perfect itinerary framework for you. See our sample itineraries to understand what you can realistically see and do, ensuring a relaxed and rewarding pace. → Find Your Perfect Italy Itinerary (7, 10, and 14-Day Guides)

Discover Italy's most iconic destinations

While every corner of Italy has its charm, these five destinations are legendary for a reason. They capture the heart of the Italian dream and are the perfect building blocks for any trip.

Rome

The Eternal City is a living museum. Walk through 2,000 years of history at the Roman Forum, be humbled by the Colosseum, and experience the spiritual heart of Catholicism in Vatican City. → Read the Ultimate Guide to Visiting Rome

Florence

The heart of the Renaissance, Florence is a city of unparalleled artistic treasures. Gaze upon Michelangelo's David, get lost in the Uffizi Gallery, and climb Brunelleschi's Dome for breathtaking city views. → Read the Ultimate Guide to Florence

Venice

A magical city built on water, Venice is utterly unique. Get lost in its maze of canals and alleyways, take a romantic gondola ride, and enjoy an aperitivo in the magnificent St. Mark's Square. → Read our Ultimate Guide to Venice

Amalfi Coast

Discover a land of mythic beauty, where cliffside villages cascade down to a sparkling turquoise sea. From the glamour of Positano to the elegance of Ravello, this is Italy at its most breathtaking. → Explore the Ultimate Guide to Amalfi Coast

Cinque Terre

The "Five Lands" are a string of ancient seaside villages clinging to the Italian Riviera's cliffs. Hike the stunning coastal trails, savor fresh pesto, and swim in the clear Ligurian Sea. → Read the Ultimate Guide to Cinque Terre

Lake Como

Discover a world of elegance and serenity, where the Alps plunge into sapphire waters. Navigate between lavish villas and lush gardens, explore the timeless charm of villages like Bellagio and Varenna, and be captivated by its dreamlike atmosphere. → Read the Ultimate Guide to Lake Como

Dolomites

Step into a kingdom of stone giants, an alpine paradise recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Hike legendary trails beneath jagged peaks, witness the mountains blush with fiery light at sunset, and embrace adventure in every season. → Explore the Ultimate Guide to the Dolomites

Explore Italy's most beloved regions

To truly understand Italy, you must think in regions. Each of the country's 20 regions has its own distinct dialect, cuisine, and identity. Here are three of the most essential to get you started.

Tuscany

This is the Italy of your dreams: rolling hills lined with cypress trees, medieval towns perched on hilltops, and world-class wine from the Chianti region. It's a feast for the senses. → Explore the Essential Guide to Tuscany

Sicily

A world unto itself, Sicily is a vibrant crossroads of civilizations. Discover Greek temples, Norman cathedrals, and bustling Arab-style markets, all under the watchful eye of Mount Etna.

Puglia

Located in the "heel" of Italy's boot, Puglia offers a more rustic and authentic experience. Here you'll find the unique trulli of Alberobello, ancient olive groves, and some of the country's most pristine beaches.

→ Explore our complete guide to all 20 regions of Italy

→ Explore the best Art Cities in Italy

How to use this guide: your roadmap to Italy

We've organized our expert content into four main pillars to make your planning seamless. Find what you need based on where you are in your travel journey.

1. Explore Italy

Dreaming of a specific region? This is your starting point. From the alpine beauty of the Dolomites to the sun-drenched shores of Sicily, our in-depth regional guides cover everything you need to know about Italy's diverse landscapes and cultures. → Start Exploring Italy

2. Things to Do

This is where your itinerary comes to life. Discover the best cooking classes in Bologna, find the most scenic hiking trails in the Cinque Terre, or learn which Vatican tour is right for you. We have hundreds of articles on Italy's unmissable activities and experiences. → Find Unforgettable Things to Do in Italy

3. Plan Your Tour

This is your practical planning hub. Here you'll find our sample itineraries, transportation guides (how to master the Italian train system!), packing lists, and crucial travel tips that will make you feel like a local, not a tourist. → Get Practical Advice to Plan Your Italy Tour

4. Culture & Style

To truly know Italy, you must understand its culture. This section dives into Italian etiquette, food rules (no cappuccino after 11 AM!), art history, and the effortless style that defines la dolce vita. → Immerse Yourself in Italian Culture & Style

Our most valuable guides: reader favorites

To fast-track your planning, we've handpicked a few of our most popular and comprehensive guides. These are the articles our readers love the most.

The ultimate 14-day Italy itinerary: Rome, Florence & Venice
11 mistakes to avoid on your first Italian vacation
The art of Italian train travel: a complete guide
Renting a car in Italy: everything you need to know
A food lover's guide to Italy's 20 regions
The ultimate guide to Italy's seasons

The future of Italy travel: authentic, vetted and seamless

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