Hilltop town of Orvieto rising above the Umbrian countryside with vineyards and cypress trees.

Home For Italy travel guideSeven ways to travel Italy

Seven ways to travel Italy

Make the most of your time in Italy with a curated itinerary and a private driver.

Picture starting your morning in bustling Rome and ending the day sipping wine at golden hour on the cliffs of Orvieto. On the private car ride there, you pass dramatic volcanic landscapes and charming medieval villages. You stop to explore artistic Calcata Vecchia, and then Civita di Bagnoregio, a hilltop city being reclaimed by nature. This is just day one of our three-day excursion through Lazio and “Italy’s Green Heart,” Umbria.

Our itinerary suggestions help you make the most of your transit time with food, history, art, and culture. Whether you only have three days or six, a private driver makes it possible. These trips use classic destinations as overnight home bases and take the roads less driven between them. You’ll find the best of both Italy’s popular cities and its lesser-known highlights.

Italy’s diverse scenery shifts dramatically even on short journeys. On the train, you’re not immersed in these landscapes and often miss out on places off the main routes.

Italy looks different from a car window. The road between cities always has somewhere worth exploring.

About the authors

Evgenii Shchrebinin is a Europe-based content curator always in search of the continent's most captivating corners and hidden culinary gems. Morgan Carpenter is a US-based travel writer eager to plan her next culinary tour of Italy.

Highlights of Umbria: Roman ruins, cliff views, and traditional art

Maximize your sightseeing on a short three-day trip through Lazio and Umbria. You’ll start and end in Rome, spending one night in Orvieto and one in Assisi. On the way, your private driver will also take you to underrated destinations like Civita di Bagnoregio and Calcata Vecchia.

Civita di Bagnoregio, a stone hilltop town on eroded cliffs with a footbridge and mountains behind.

Day 1: Rome to Orvieto

Stop 1: Calcata Vecchia

Explore an eccentric hilltop artist’s village.

Stop 2: Civita di Bagnoregio

See this “dying city” suspended over a yawning clay canyon.

Arrival in Orvieto

Spend the night in Orvieto, a richly historic cliff-top city.

Pale stone hill town of Assisi with bell towers and cypresses above the Umbrian valley in sunshine.

Day 2: Orvieto to Assisi

Stop 1: Decugnano dei Barbi

Visit this boutique winery and stroll through its sunlit terraces.

Stop 2: Deruta

Stop at the quiet, undisputed capital of Renaissance majolica ceramics.

Arrival in Assisi

Stay in Assisi for a night and explore the charming birthplace of St. Francis.

Aerial view of Spello's rosy stone houses, twin-towered gate, and walls

Day 3: Assisi to Rome

Stop 1: Spello

Soak up medieval architecture and Roman ruins in this Umbrian town.

Stop 2: Narni Underground

Explore a subterranean network of Roman invention.

Return to Rome

Return to Italy’s historic capital to round out your cultural journey.

Culinary adventures from Emilia-Romagna to the Valtellina Valley

Enjoy a 5-day journey that meanders from southern food capitals to alpine landscapes near the Swiss border. Start in Bologna and stay in Modena, Verona, Lago d’Iseo, and Sondrio, before ending your adventure in Tirano.

Red starting-grid archway at the entrance to the Museo Ferrari in Maranello.

Day 1: Bologna to Modena

Stop 1: Castelfranco Emilia

Sample homemade pasta in this quiet town thought to be the birthplace of tortellino.

Stop 2: Ferrari Museum Maranello

Stop in the Ferrari Museum, a massive immersive showcase of the classic Italian car.

Stop 3: Acetaia Giusti

Try balsamic vinegar from the world's oldest producer.

Arrival in Modena

Spend the night in elegant Modena, the birthplace of balsamic vinegar and home to a range of other incredible flavors.

Mantua skyline of domes, towers, and palaces reflected in its lake on a clear day.

Day 2: Modena to Verona

Stop 1: Mantua

Step inside a painting at this artistic Renaissance court framed by artificial lakes.

Stop 2: Borghetto sul Mincio

Walk through a fairy tale in this tiny medieval village.

Arrival in Verona

Arrive in Verona and soak up the city’s romantic atmosphere for the night.

Rows of vines across rolling hills with a farmhouse and cypresses at sunset.

Day 3: Verona to Lago d'Iseo

Stop 1: Brescia

Explore uncrowded Roman ruins at the Brixia Roman Forum, the largest archaeological complex in Northern Italy.

Stop 2: Ca' del Bosco (Franciacorta Wine Region)

Relax at this luxury estate in Italy’s capital of traditionally produced sparkling wine.

Stop 3: Dispensa Franciacorta in Adro

Enjoy upscale dining at this restaurant and enoteca (“wine library”) surrounded by lush vineyards.

Arrival in Iseo

Stay the night in Iseo, on the banks of the glassy Lago d’Iseo, an uncrowded natural wonder.

Misty forested mountains reflected in a still lake with autumn foliage at the shore.

Day 4: Lago d'Iseo to Sondrio

Stop 1: Naquane National Park

See the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to hundreds of prehistoric carvings.

Arrival in Sondrio

Spend the night in Sondrio, an alpine town cradled in a valley in the Rhaetian Alps.

Aerial view of Tirano with the Basilica della Madonna and vineyards on the hillsides.

Day 5: Sondrio to Tirano

Stop 1: Teglio

Unwind on the sunny terraces of this mountain village, indulging in its signature dish, pizzoccheri.

Stop 2: Nino Negri Winery

Sip on the product of “heroic viticulture” (growing in extreme conditions) at this prestigious estate.

Arrival in Tirano

Stay in Tirano for a night, immersed in this storied town right near the Swiss border.

Southern Italy’s beaches, villages, and wines: from Puglia to Basilicata

Embark on a 6-day tour of Italy’s Southern cities. You’ll see everything from windswept coastal towns to historic villages and mysterious cave systems. Start and end in Bari, staying in Matera, Lecce, Ostuni, Alberobello, and Polignano a Mare, with sightseeing stops each day.

Stone aqueduct bridge over the ravine at Gravina in Puglia, with the old town above.

Day 1: Bari to Matera

Stop 1: Altamura

Stop in the capital of southern bread-making and sample traditional sourdough.

Stop 2: Gravina in Puglia

Marvel at this canyon town and its dramatic stone bridge over a limestone ravine.

Arrival in Matera

Spend the night in this mysterious city built around ancient cave dwellings.

Stone arch framing a baroque church and war memorial in a tree-lined square.

Day 2: Matera to Lecce

Stop 1: Grottaglie

Immerse yourself in Italian ceramic arts in this historic town.

Stop 2: Manduria

Visit one of Italy’s most famous wine regions and the birthplace of Primitivo di Manduria red wine.

Stop 3: Gianfranco Fino Winery

Dive further into world-renowned wine production at this modern estate.

Arrival in Lecce

Wrap up the day and admire Lecce’s theatrical architecture and Barocco Leccese style stonework.

Whitewashed hilltown square with cafe tables and umbrellas at golden hour.

Day 3: Lecce to Ostuni

Stop 1: Abbazia di Santa Maria di Cerrate

Explore an isolated 12th-century abbey and its peaceful courtyards.

Stop 2: Carovigno

Wander a white-walled village encircling a medieval castle.

Arrival in Ostuni

Spend the night in Ostuni, a whitewashed city perched on the top of a hill.

Cone-roofed trulli houses lining a sunlit cobbled street with flowers.

Day 4: Ostuni to Alberobello

Stop 1: Cisternino

Visit a welcoming town known for its “ready ovens” culture and hilltop views.

Stop 2: Locorotondo

Explore this circular town with scenic valley views and an abundance of locally produced wine.

Arrival in Alberobello

Find yourself in a fairytale for the night in Alberobello, famous for its cone roofs and winding streets.

Whitewashed clifftop town of Polignano a mare above turquoise sea with a boat passing below.

Day 5: Alberobello to Polignano a Mare

Stop 1: Castellana Caves

Sink underground into this 90-million-year old cave system featuring winding tunnels and crystal deposits.

Stop 2: Monopoli

Visit a traditional fishing port and admire the postcard-esque red-and-blue wooden boats.

Arrival in Polignano a Mare

Stay the night in this dramatic coastal town balanced on cliffs above clear blue water.

Aerial view of an old town's rooftops and two basilicas beside a blue sea.

Day 6: Polignano a Mare to Bari

Stop 1: Mola di Bari

Take a break at this bustling port town, where you can explore a seaside fortress and sample renowned seafood.

Arrival in Bari

Round out your 6-day journey with a night in Bari, Puglia’s spirited capital.

Slow Tuscany: vineyards, valleys, and hill towns

Embark on a scenic adventure centered on Tuscany’s history and culinary impact. Your 5-day journey begins and ends in Florence with your professional driver. On the way, you’ll spend the night in San Gimignano, Siena, Montalcino, and Pienza, with additional sightseeing each day.

Hilltop medieval village above green fields with distant towers on the horizon.

Day 1: Florence to San Gimignano

Stop 1: Impruneta

Explore Tuscany’s terracotta capital and watch local artists uphold centuries-old traditions.

Stop 2: Certaldo

Stop in this hilltop medieval village, the birthplace of the writer Boccaccio.

Arrival in San Gimignano

Spend the night in this iconic town, its skyline dominated by 14 medieval towers.

Terracotta rooftops climbing a wooded hillside to a stone bell tower.

Day 2: San Gimignano to Siena

Stop 1: Colle di Val d’Elsa

Start your day in Italy’s “crystal capital,” known for its blown glass and multi-level layout.

Stop 2: Monteriggioni

Feel like you’re stepping into a fantasy novel as you enter Monteriggioni, a town surrounded by a defensive wall, famously appearing in Dante’s Inferno.

Arrival in Siena

Stay for a night in historic Siena, boasting Gothic architecture and a rich collection of art.

Quiet brick-lined lane with potted plants, stone steps, and an archway.

Day 3: Siena to Montalcino

Stop 1: Territorial Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore

Kick off the day at this active Benedictine Monastery hidden in a cypress forest.

Stop 2: Buonconvento

Stroll through a walled medieval village, a quiet retreat packed with mud-brick buildings and flowering alleys.

Stop 3: Podere Le Ripi

Just before reaching Montalcino, stop at this biodynamic (“beyond organic”) wine estate.

Arrival in Montalcino

End your day in Montalcino, perched on a hilltop and known around the world for its Brunello wine.

Horti Leonini garden in San Quirico d'Orcia, below the town's rooftops.

Day 4: Montalcino to Pienza

Stop 1: San Quirico d'Orcia

Be mesmerized by this walled, Etruscan town tucked into the rolling Val D’Orcia landscape.

Stop 2: Bagno Vignoni

Unwind in this thermal village, built around a central square of steaming volcanic water.

Stop 3: Podere Il Casale

Indulge in a farm-to-table lunch at this organic farm just outside of Pienza.

Arrival in Pienza

Stay the night in an elegant town remodeled at the behest of Pope Pius II.

Cypress-lined gravel road winding uphill toward a Tuscan villa.

Day 5: Pienza to Florence

Stop 1: Montepulciano

Visit this iconic Renaissance town, home to cathedral-like wine cellars and elaborate palaces.

Stop 2: Castellina in Chianti

Enjoy one last stop on your way to Florence at this fortified medieval town and wine hotspot.

Arrival in Florence

Return to Florence, Tuscany’s crowning gem and the heart of the Renaissance.

The best of Sicily: coastlines, mountains, and cultural heritage

Trace your ancestral routes through Sicily’s sun-drenched coastal towns and dramatic interior mountains. Your 5-day journey starts in Palermo and includes nights in Cefalù, Corleone, Agrigento, Piazza Armerina, and Catania.

Cefalu's seafront houses and turquoise bay beneath the town's rocky crag.

Day 1: Palermo to Cefalù

Stop 1: Bagheria

Wander this small town known as the “City of Villas,” once a retreat for Palermo’s royalty.

Stop 2: Caccamo

Stop in this medieval hilltop town crowned by a spectacular Norman castle, one of the largest in Italy.

Arrival in Cefalù

Step into a postcard for the night in charming Cefalù, where rugged cliffs collide with the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea.

Stone archway framing a village street, bell tower, and green mountain.

Day 2: Cefalù to Corleone

Stop 1: Castelbuono

Take your first sightseeing break in medieval Castelbuono, surrounded by the Madonie Mountains.

Stop 2: Real Casina di Caccia di Ficuzza

Explore a neoclassical hunting lodge once used by King Ferdinand IV.

Arrival in Corleone

Spend the night in Corleone, a town steeped in history and surrounded by dense forests and dramatic cliffs.

Temple of Castor and Pollux in Agrigento's Valley of the Temples.

Day 3: Corleone to Agrigento

Stop 1: Palazzo Adriano

Find a quiet retreat in this quaint mountain village that appeared on screen in Oscar-winner Cinema Paradiso!

Arrival in Agrigento

Move further south to spend a night in Agrigento, immersed in its Greek influence.

Building clad in multicolored tiles at the end of a narrow stone alley.

Day 4: Agrigento to Piazza Armerina

Stop 1: Farm Cultural Park in Favara

Experience this unique outdoor art and culture hub, known for its vibrant murals and fascinating architecture.

Arrival in Piazza Armerina

End day four in Piazza Armerina, Sicily’s lush green heart.

Hand-painted ceramic vase on tiled steps decorated with blue and yellow patterns.

Day 5: Piazza Armerina to Catania

Stop 1: Caltagirone

See Sicily’s ceramic capital, a UNESCO World Heritage site honed by its artistic culture.

Stop 2: Grammichele

Explore this unique hexagonal city, rebuilt after an earthquake in 1693.

Arrival in Catania

End your trip in volcanic Catania, Sicily’s bustling second city.

Italy as seen on screen, from “The Godfather” to “007”

Take a 3-day journey through some of Italy’s most iconic filming locations. Let a private driver guide you through mountain passes and coastal roads as you leave Rome for nights in Sperlonga, Maratea, and Matera.

Sabaudia's dune beach curving between the blue sea and its lagoon.

Day 1: Rome to Sperlonga

Stop 1: Sermoneta

Start your adventure in this walled medieval village that appeared in Italian comedy We Just Have to Cry and the period drama The Red Violin.

Stop 2: Sabaudia

Stop in this sleek coastal town favored by filmmakers for its uniquely geometric Rationalist architecture.

Arrival in Sperlonga

Stay the night in whitewashed, breezy Sperlonga, the backdrop for Contempt starring Brigitte Bardot.

Green cliffs and a winding coast road above bright turquoise sea.

Day 2: Sperlonga to Maratea

Stop 1: Certosa di Padula

Explore the largest monastery in Italy, containing centuries of history.

Stop 2: Sapri

See the train station where 007 parts with Madeleine Swann in No Time to Die and explore the rest of this coastal gem.

Arrival in Maratea

Close out the day at the “Pearl of the Tyrrhenian,” where mountains meet the sea in a dramatic and unforgettable landscape.

The abandoned hilltop village of Craco perched on its rocky crag.

Day 3: Maratea to Matera

Stop 1: Aliano

Immerse yourself in the surreal natural beauty that made the silver screen in Francesco Rosi’s Christ Stopped at Eboli.

Stop 2: Craco Ghost Town

Wander this abandoned medieval village used in Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ, and Marc Forster’s 007 film Quantum of Solace.

Arrival in Matera Arrive for a night in one of the world's oldest and most fascinating cities, used as a backdrop in The Passion of the Christ and No Time to Die.

Inland Campania highlights: volcanoes, winemaking, and Roman ruins

This 5-day trip takes you inland to Campania’s volcanic landscapes and ancient royal powerhouses. Start in Naples, spending nights in Caserta, Capua, and Benevento, while stopping for sightseeing each day.

Day 1: Naples to Caserta

Stop 1: Herculaneum

Explore a unique alternative to Pompeii in this Roman town preserved by hot volcanic mud after Mount Vesuvius’ eruption.

Stop 2: Mount Vesuvius

Witness the foreboding giant whose infamous eruption redefined the region.

Arrival in Caserta

Spend the night in the royal city of Caserta, known for its massive royal palace and cascading waterfalls.

The ruined Roman amphitheater of Santa Maria Capua Vetere.

Day 2: Caserta to Capua

Stop 1: Belvedere San Leucio

Take the day’s first stop in Belvedere San Leucio, a unique site that’s part royal palace and part socialist village.

Stop 2: Basilica of Sant’Angelo in Formis

Take an hour to marvel at this medieval wonder built on top of ancient Roman ruins.

Arrival in Capua

Spend the night in Capua, a charming medieval escape tucked into a bend of the Volturna River.

Stone castle with a round tower on a wooded ridge before hazy mountains.

Day 3: Capua to Benevento

Stop 1: Amphitheater of Santa Maria Capua Vetere

Head just outside of Capua to Italy’s second largest amphitheater, where the legendary Spartacus trained and led a gladiator revolt.

Stop 2: Montesarchio Castle

Deep dive into the region’s archaeological marvels at this imposing fortress.

Arrival in Benevento

Stay the night in this “City of Witches” brimming with ancient architecture and folklore.

Hand holding a glass of red wine in front of a wooden bottle rack.

Day 4: Benevento to Irpinia Wine Region

Stop 1: Pietrelcina

Spend a morning wandering this quiet village, the birthplace of Padre Pio.

Stop 2: Feudi di San Gregorio

Unwind at this avant-garde wine estate and experience how Campania’s volcanic soil influences its winemaking traditions.

Return to Benevento

Spend another night in Benevento, relaxing at golden hour in the charming town.

Naples' colorful hillside villas above the bay, with Ischia on the horizon.

Day 5: Benevento to Naples

Stop 1: Complesso Basilicale Paleocristiano

Start your final day in this complex of religious structures brimming with early art.

Arrival in Naples

Head back to Naples to close out your exciting journey through Campania.

Ready to plan your Italy itinerary?

2+ million travelers like you. Moments they'll never forget.

Great Experience

Roberto L. was my driver. He was excellent. I was so happy I made the choice to book a driver with Daytrip to take me from the Rome airport to Orvieto. It was a long travel day, and extending it by taking the Leonardo Express to Termini, and then on to Orvieto was not appealing. It was really worth it to book Daytrip. Thank you Roberto! And thank you for sharing your knowledge about some of the lovely towns in Umbria!

Melissa F

May 31, 2026

A perfect day on the road – thank you Samuele and Daytrip!

I had the absolute BEST day travelling from Bologna to Tirano with the wonderful Samuele, booked through Daytrip. Instead of a long and complicated train journey, I opted for this private transfer and it turned out to be one of the highlights of my trip. Samuele was not only an excellent driver and guide, but also a truly kind, personable, and thoughtful companion for the day. From start to finish, the entire experience was calm, comfortable, and full of laughter and great conversation. We made fantastic stops along the way – from the iconic Ferrari Museum in Modena to the romantic city of Verona and the stunning Lago d’Iseo. Every moment was easy, enjoyable, and totally stress-free. Samuele went above and beyond to make the journey memorable – he shared interesting insights, tailored the day to suit my pace and interests, and made me feel completely at ease. By the end of it, I truly felt like I had made a friend. I cannot recommend Samuele and Daytrip enough – it was exceptional in every way, and I’ll definitely be booking with them again on future travels. If you’re considering this service, do it – it’s worth every cent!

Esse

June 8, 2025

Easy way to transfer between towns stress free

This is the second holiday we have used Daytrip and we used them twice. Pickup from Bari to Matera and chose to stop at Alberebello on the way. We also used them from Matera to Ravello. We wanted a break from planes and this was perfect. Allowed us to relax and see some sites along the way. Both drivers were great and cars were clean. Both provided a baby seat for our 9 month old

kmm852018

August 22, 2025

Daytrip - outstanding private car service

Daytrip is an outstanding private car service. I was travelling to a fairly remote location in Tuscany. I worked with the Daytrip staff and they helped to clearly identify my desired drop off and pick up location. The drivers found the location without issue. The pricing was very good. The cars were a Mercedes and Audi, very clean and comfortable. I highly recommend Daytrip.

Lawrence L

April 11, 2025

Worth every penny for comfort and security

I have used Daytrip twice during my stay in Sicily. The drivers were great - on time and very courteous. One spoke English well (Daniele D.) and the other had a basic understanding. It was wonderful knowing that I would get to my destination safely, without the hassles of renting a car or navigating public transportation. Worth every penny.

Jogo

June 7, 2026

Unforgettable Ride from Rome to Positano with Alessio!

Absolutely Incredible Experience with DayTrip Italy and Alessio! We recently used DayTrip Italy for our journey from Rome to Positano, and it was hands-down one of the best decisions we made during our trip to Italy. From start to finish, the experience was seamless, professional, and thoroughly enjoyable. A huge shoutout to Alessio, our driver, who went above and beyond to make our trip comfortable, informative, and fun. He was incredibly friendly, punctual, and knowledgeable about the regions we were passing through. His driving was smooth and safe, which made the long journey feel relaxed and effortless. Alessio also shared fascinating insights about Italian history, culture, and landmarks along the way — it felt like having a personal tour guide as well as a driver! He made great recommendations for stops along the route, including a charming little town for lunch that we never would have discovered on our own. Alessio was attentive to our needs and made sure we were comfortable the entire time. We genuinely felt cared for and appreciated his warm hospitality. If you’re considering a private transfer or day trip while in Italy, don’t hesitate to book with DayTrip Italy — and if you’re lucky enough to get Alessio, you’re in for a treat! Highly recommended!

Juan M

July 8, 2025

2+ million travelers like you. Moments they'll never forget.

based on 5,314 reviews

based on 1,079 reviews on

Your itinerary questions, answered

Most religious sites are free for visitors to enter outside of scheduled services. Major attractions like St. Peter's Basilica require tickets and are best booked in advance. Be respectful of quiet prayer times and follow posted dress codes (often requiring covered shoulders and knees).

Tipping is not required or expected in Italy, whether you're in small towns or the major cities. However, don't be surprised if you notice a "coperto" or "servizio" fee on your bill at a restaurant. This few-euro charge covers table service. Tour guides may appreciate a small gratuity.

People average 10-14 days in Italy, especially for a first trip. This allows you enough time to see the main hubs like Rome, Venice, and Florence, while stopping in smaller towns or visiting the lakes. Faster trips should focus on one or two major cities with private day trips to nearby sites.

Yes, carrying small bills is a good idea when exploring Italy, especially in small towns. Most hotels and restaurants accept major credit cards, but public restrooms, cafes, and quick meals can require cash. Leaving cash for the bill can also be faster when stopping for a quick coffee at a busy bar.

Travelers should book tickets to major attractions at least 30 days in advance for peak season visits. Booking 2-3 months in advance is best for guided tours or combination tickets for multiple attractions. Always book through an official website or reputable third-party service.

Learning a few basic Italian phrases can make it a lot easier to navigate smaller towns in Italy. In the major tourism hubs, English speakers are common, but not always in quieter rural areas. Learn polite phrases like "salve" and "grazie," and practice asking for directions and ordering food.

The most popular transfers

The most popular day trips

Be the first to discover more

Get handpicked travel ideas, insider highlights, and special Daytrip offers.