Italy is the ultimate bucket-list destination – where ancient history, mouthwatering food, and effortless style come together under the Mediterranean sun.
From the rolling vineyards of Tuscany to the dramatic Amalfi Coast, every region has its own unique flair and flavour. You’ve got Roman ruins, pastel-hued seaside villages, snow-capped Alps, and some of the most iconic cities in the world (ciao, Rome, Venice, and Florence)!
It’s a dream trip whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a cultural deep dive, or just want to eat your body weight in pasta and gelato (no judgment here).
With direct flights from the UK to cities across Italy, it’s super accessible for a weekend break or a longer adventure. And while some parts can be pricey (looking at you, Capri), there are loads of ways to travel smart – regional trains, eating where the locals eat, and exploring lesser-known gems off the tourist trail.
Italy is perfect for solo travellers, friends, couples, and family trips. One visit is never enough and honestly, you’ll be planning your return before your flight home even takes off.
Just so you know, some of the links in this guide are affiliate links, which means I might earn a small commission if you book through them (at no extra cost to you). I only ever recommend things I’ve genuinely tried and loved!
📍 Top Places to Visit:
Rome – A living museum where you can walk in the footsteps of emperors, toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain, and enjoy aperitivo near the Colosseum.
Florence – Renaissance magic, incredible art, and some of the best gelato in the country. Don’t miss climbing the Duomo for those views.
Venice – All the romance, canals, gondolas and spritzes your heart could want.
Amalfi Coast – Positano, Ravello, Amalfi…each town is more beautiful than the last. Cliffside roads, turquoise seas, and unreal sunsets.
Tuscany – Wine tasting, rolling hills, tiny hilltop towns and rustic farmhouses. It’s the Italy you dream about.
Cinque Terre – Five colourful cliffside villages linked by hiking trails and trains. Expect lemon trees, seafood, and lots of stairs.
📅 Best Time to Visit:
- Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–October) are ideal – warm, fewer crowds, and everything is open.
- Summer (July–August) can be very hot and busy, especially in major tourist spots. Great for the coast or islands though.
- Winter (November–February) is quieter and magical around Christmas, especially in cities like Rome or Florence.
💰 Currency & Budget Tips:
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Italy can range from luxe to budget depending on where you go. Cities like Venice and Capri = pricey. Southern Italy and smaller towns = much more affordable.
Eat your main meal at lunch – many places offer fixed-price menus.
Drink coffee at the bar (sitting down often costs more!).
Use regional trains – they’re cheap, frequent, and scenic.
Fill up your water bottle at public fountains – yes, it’s safe
🧳Good For:
- Food lovers
- History buffs
- Honeymooners
- Solo travellers
- Culture seekers
- Coastline chasers
🍽️ Local Dishes to Try:
- Cacio e Pepe – Simple Roman pasta with pecorino and pepper
- Risotto alla Milanese – Creamy saffron risotto from Milan
- Pizza Napoletana – Best eaten in Naples, obviously
- Arancini – Crispy stuffed rice balls, especially in Sicily
- Gelato – You’ll never look at regular ice cream the same way again
- Tiramisu – Dessert heaven (try it in Treviso, where it was born)
✈️ How to Get There:
- Major airports: Rome (FCO), Milan (MXP), Venice (VCE), Florence (FLR), Naples (NAP)
- Direct flights from most UK airports – flight time ~2-3 hours
- You can also reach Italy via train from France, Switzerland, or Austria if you’re doing a multi-country trip
🚍 Getting Around:
- Trains are fast, reliable and scenic – use Trenitalia or Italo for intercity routes
- Regional buses are great for small towns or the Amalfi Coast
- Car hire is useful for countryside regions like Tuscany or Puglia (but avoid driving in big cities – it’s chaos)
- Ferries link coastal spots and islands like Capri, Sicily, and Sardinia
🌍 Language & Local Etiquette
- Language: Italian – but many locals speak English in tourist areas
- Always say “buongiorno” or “buonasera” when entering shops or restaurants
- Tipping isn’t required, but rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated
- Dress modestly when visiting churches
- Embrace the slower pace – things often run on “Italian time”
My Italy Highlights
Italy needs no introduction, but here it is anyway: a timeless destination where history, art, food, and romance collide on every sun-drenched street corner. From ancient ruins and world-class gelato to fashionable locals zipping by on Vespas, Italy is a feast for the senses.
Other highlights? The Spanish Steps – not just a good photo op, but a lovely area to walk around and soak up that classic Roman atmosphere (just keep an eye on your bag – pickpockets love it here).
The Trevi Fountain is chaotic in the best way. It’s always busy, but if you’re patient, you can elbow your way to the front and toss in your coin. Worth it for the photo and the wish.
We didn’t go inside the Vatican Museums because the queue was out of control, but if it’s on your list, 1000% book a skip-the-line tour in advance. That queue was no joke.
One of my favourite slower-paced moments was walking around Villa Borghese – a big leafy park filled with fountains, sculptures, and even bike rentals if you want to zoom around. It’s a nice contrast to the city hustle.
💡 Tip: There are loads of beautiful churches and galleries you can visit for free, but heads up – if you’re going inside the Vatican or any church, make sure you’re covered up (no bare shoulders or legs).
Le Etoiles Rooftop Bar – Gorgeous views of the Vatican and city skyline, especially at sunset. It’s a bit boujee and you’ll need to book in advance, but worth it.
Garden Roof Trevi Lounge & Bar – Cute rooftop with views over the Trevi Fountain. Perfect for escaping the crowds and enjoying a chilled drink.
Origano Campo De Flori – Looks average from the outside but honestly served the best pizza of the trip. A total gem.
Lemongrass Gelato – Ideal pitstop for dreamy gelato and ice cream.
Testaccio Market – Very Borough Market vibes – think foodie stalls, snacks, and a buzzy local feel.
Divinity Lounge – Another fab rooftop spot, this time with views of the Pantheon. Great drinks and atmosphere.
Baccano – Delicious food, and if you’re a tiramisu fan, they make it fresh at your table. Iconic.
Regoli Pasticceria – A beloved local bakery. Try the Maritozzo – a sweet bun filled with whipped cream. It’s traditional, indulgent, and amazing.
Whether you’re there for the ruins or the rooftop bars (or both), it’s a city that has something for everyone. I already can’t wait to go back and explore more of Italy – the Amalfi Coast, Florence, Venice… I see you!
You’ll find a curated selection of top-rated tours and experiences in Italy below – from pasta-making classes to guided city walks and vineyard visits.
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