Daytrip's guide to Italy
Beloved for its picturesque scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture, Italy is on many travelers’ bucket lists. Our Italy travel guide can help you plan your ideal trip, whether you dream about luxuriating in the Amalfi sun or immersing yourself in Roman history.
This famously boot-shaped country is incredibly influential, from the Roman Empire’s enduring impact on government and legal systems to the Renaissance’s introduction of new artistic techniques. The world has Italy to thank for many things we now take for granted: the 365-day calendar year, aqueducts and sewer systems, perfected concrete, linear perspective in paintings, sophisticated highways, and of course, pizza.
Italy has 61 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, more than any other country. Travelers can visit many of these in the capital, Rome. Italy is also home to the world’s oldest university, in Bologna.
The country’s identity remains strongly regional, given its past as a series of independent states. These regional differences mimic the dramatic changes in scenery across Italy. Up north, the towering Alps and cooler climate create a faster-paced culture and an emphasis on hearty comfort food. Expect a more industrialized, formal atmosphere in places like Milan.
Central Italy boasts rolling hills and strong traditions. This region is the place to be for history and art. Extensive agriculture also means wine and olive oil take center stage here. Further south, the heat and relaxed attitudes along the Mediterranean coast slow down the pace of life. Food shifts to fresh, light flavors (think tomatoes, citrus, and seafood).
Main airports:
- Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO)
- Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)
- Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY)
- Naples International Airport (NAP)
- Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA)
- Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE)
- Pisa International Airport (PSA)
About the author
"Italy's food, dramatic natural beauty, and community culture keep drawing me back."
Morgan is a US-based writer who has been lucky enough to visit Italy several times. She loves the country's food, dramatic natural beauty, and cultural emphasis on community.
Italy in brief
Capital
Rome
Language
Italian; regional languages and dialects
Currency
Euro (€)
Time zone
CET (UTC+1) / CEST (UTC+2) in the summer
Where to start in Italy
Until its unification (or Risorgimento) in 1861, Italy was made up of independent states. Now, the echoes of these former states remain in Italy's hyper-local identities. Cuisine, culture, and dialects vary significantly across regions.
Until its unification (or Risorgimento) in 1861, Italy was made up of independent states. Now, the echoes of these former states remain in Italy's hyper-local identities. Cuisine, culture, and dialects vary significantly across regions.
Naples and Campania
Taste Naples’ famous pizza, marvel at a cliffside sunset on the Amalfi Coast, and explore dramatic Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii’s ruins.
Florence and Tuscany
Embrace Tuscany’s Renaissance heritage among the masterpieces in Florence. Or head to Siena and Pisa for their iconic landmarks.
Milan and Lombardy
Explore Lombardy, from refined Milan to Como and Garda’s sparkling lake views. Don’t miss Bellagio’s tranquil terraced garden.
Venice and Veneto
Coast through Venice’s picturesque canals or stroll the romantic cobblestones of Romeo and Juliet in fair Verona.
Rome and Lazio
Step back in time in Rome, the historic capital of Central Italy. Ancient history meets Renaissance mastery here in the Lazio region.
Sicily
Soak up the sun on a picturesque Sicilian beach, or dive into ancient Greek history at some of the world’s best-preserved ancient sites.
When to go
Spring
See Italy in full bloom from April to May. Beat the crowds in late March, but expect unpredictable weather. Join Easter and Liberation Day festivals in April.
Summer
Visit during peak season for the warmest seas and sunniest days. Expect crowds from mid-May to August. Relax on the beach and dine al fresco.
Autumn
Savor Autumn in Italy, September- November. Crowds peak in September and dwindle as it cools down. Indulge in wine festivals during the grape harvest.
Winter
Escape crowds December through February. Hit the ski slopes up north. Stroll through a sparkling Verona Christmas Market. Celebrate Venice Carnival in February.
Our picks: things to do in Italy
Make the most of everything Italy has to offer. Relish the sun on a pristine coastline or spend the day exploring an ancient city. Whether you’re after natural beauty or a cultural infusion, you’ll find it here in our favorite sites.
Make the most of everything Italy has to offer. Relish the sun on a pristine coastline or spend the day exploring an ancient city. Whether you’re after natural beauty or a cultural infusion, you’ll find it here in our favorite sites.
Relax on the beach
Bask in the summer sun and take a dip at one of Italy’s postcard-perfect beaches.
- Boat to Baia di Buon Dormire, a secluded bay on the Cilento Coast
- Enjoy clear waters and white sands at Sicily’s Spiaggia dei Conigli
- Find a quieter stretch of sand at Tuscany’s Cala Violina
- Take kids to Spiaggia di Maiori, the longest beach on the Amalfi Coast
- Relax at Lido di Jesolo in Veneto, known for its safe, shallow waters
Admire iconic art
As the heart of the Renaissance, Italy is the ultimate haven for art enthusiasts
- Marvel at Michelangelo’s works in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel
- See the Uffizi Gallery in Florence for Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus
- Study the Veiled Christ marble tomb at the Sansevero Chapel in Naples
- See da Vinci’s The Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan
- Go beyond the Renaissance at the Peggy Guggenheim gallery in Venice
Follow ancient footsteps
Italy is home to an array of historical sites worth exploring, from ancient structures to major religious landmarks.
- Immerse yourself in gladiatorial history at Rome’s massive Colosseum
- See the underground city of the Matera caves and Rupestrian Churches
- Explore Pompeii, an ancient city preserved by Mt. Vesuvius’s eruption
- Visit Ostia Antica’s theater and baths, a quiet Pompeii alternative
- Learn about ancient Greek heritage at Sicily’s Valley of the Temples
Indulge in local flavors
Food is an integral part of Italian culture and the highlight of many travelers’ visits.
- Grab a slice of Neapolitan pizza, with its thin base and pillowy crust
- Try Rome’s Pasta Carbonara, its richness achieved without cream
- Snack on Sicily’s Arancini, crispy cheese and ragu stuffed rice balls
- Enjoy Bistecca alla Fiorentina in Tuscany, a rare-grilled T-bone
- Savor decadent tiramisu in Treviso, its birthplace
- Sample Gnocco Fritto, puffed rectangles of fried dough, in Modena
Make the most of the mountains
While sipping Aperol Spritz on the beach is many people’s idea of an Italian vacation, the country also boasts plenty of hiking and skiing opportunities.
- Take to the Italian Alps and hike the Tre Cime di Lavaredo Loop
- Hike the Lago di Sorapis, also in the Dolomites, to see an alpine lake
- Follow the Blue Trail between the five villages of the Cinque Terre
- Soak up coastal views on the Amalfi Coast’s Path of the Gods
- Ski at Cortina d’Ampezzo, “Queen of the Dolomites,” for scenic slopes
Sip on local wine
Indulge in the rich, varied wines of Italy. Learn more about how regional differences influence grape cultivation and the delicious final product.
- Try Barolo and Barbaresco (“King and Queen” of wines) in the Piedmont
- Sip on Brunello di Montalcino in Tuscany for a more complex red
- Enjoy Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio, offering a bright and earthy flavor
- Complement punchy cheeses with Veneto’s Amarone della Valpolicella
- Elevate your Sicilian seafood dinner with Vermentino, a crisp white
What to eat, drink, and order
Every region in Italy has a lot to offer. In Northern Italy, rich flavors are born from the cooler climate and abundance of dairy farms. Further south, bold Mediterranean flavors prevail. Whether you’re craving classic Italian comfort foods or decadent wines, the regional differences in Italian cuisine create a diverse menu to explore.
Every region in Italy has a lot to offer. In Northern Italy, rich flavors are born from the cooler climate and abundance of dairy farms. Further south, bold Mediterranean flavors prevail. Whether you’re craving classic Italian comfort foods or decadent wines, the regional differences...
Focaccia in Liguria
This flatbread is beloved for its crispy crust, airy interior, and irresistible savory flavor. Try it while in Liguria, its birthplace, for the best experience.
Ragù alla Bolognese in Bologna
Ragù alla Bolognese is a rich, comforting pasta made with minced beef or pork, pancetta, and red wine. Born in Bologna, as the name suggests, it’s most authentic here.
Risotto alla Milanese in Milan
Traditionally made with saffron, beef marrow, and plenty of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, this golden dish is rich and savory. It’s Milan’s signature celebration of Northern Italy’s dairy production.
Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa in Bari
Try this ear-shaped pasta, flavored with garlic, chili, and anchovies, mixed with bitter greens. In Bari, you may even spot local grandmothers handrolling this unique pasta shape.
Cannoli in Sicily
Bite into these fried pastry shells filled with sweet, whipped ricotta. Sicily created them and still serves traditional versions with pistachios, cherries, and chocolate chips.
Soave in Veneto
This joyful, floral, and fresh white wine is a lesser-known favorite for warm days. Soave is popular in the Veneto region, where it’s often paired with appetizers.
Getting around Italy
While trains and buses are fairly convenient in Italy, there are special destinations you’ll miss by sticking to public transport. Plus, airline and train strikes sometimes disrupt travel plans. Overall, a Daytrip private transfer can be a great option for stress-free travel. Those hoping to drive themselves should be aware that Italian roads, especially in the south, are unevenly maintained. With a professional driver at the helm, it’s easier to get around with kids, elderly travel companions, or those with limited mobility.
Our recommended routes in Italy
Naples to Positano
1h 20min • 58km (36.0mi)
From €190
Naples to Sorrento
1h 5min • 49km (30.4mi)
From €149
Rome to Florence
3h 3min • 274km (170.3mi)
From €587
Rome to Sorrento
3h 9min • 265km (164.7mi)
From €449
Rome Fiumicino Airport to Rome
38min • 32km (19.9mi)
From €99
Positano to Naples Airport
1h 15min • 60km (37.3mi)
From €189
Rome to Civitavecchia
1h 15min • 74km (46.0mi)
From €250
Trieste to Venice
1h 53min • 159km (98.8mi)
From €345
Palermo to Taormina
3h 3min • 265km (164.7mi)
From €475
Naples to Massa Lubrense
1h 18min • 55km (34.2mi)
From €182
Venice to Milan
3h 4min • 281km (174.6mi)
From €552
Milan to Bellagio
1h 32min • 71km (44.1mi)
From €284
Day trips from Italy's top cities
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