tours italy and france

France and Italy Tours & Trips

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10 best France and Italy tour packages

Compiled by

Melissa France and Italy travel expert at TourRadar

From Italy to France with London

France, andorra and catalonia, trekking mont blanc, rome to london trail (summer, 8 days), mont blanc highlights, tour du mont blanc, western europe group rail tour (18-35), barcelona to rome, sardinia & corsica sailing adventure, tour du mont blanc hotel trek.

“A unique experience with many pleasant memories and stories to tell.”

• In-depth Cultural

• Hiking & Trekking
• Mountain Hikes
• Watch the sunrise in France, Italy, and Switzerland
• Take on one of the worlds most spectacular hiking routes
• See sparkling glacial lakes and breathe fresh alpine air

“Excellent tour guide and well balanced trekking your.”

• Sightseeing

• Have the satisfaction of hiking one of the finest walking routes in the Alps
• Spend your nights in a delightful chalet with dramatic views of Mont Blanc
• Soothe your muscles with a relaxing dip in the chalet’s bubbling jacuzzi

“Very well organized, good communication throughout and fantastic hikes, accommodation, meals.”

• Experience the winter wonderland of the Grotto de Glace
• Go kayaking on the azure-blue waters of Lake Annecy
• Indulge in delicious delicacies at the Beaufort cheese factory

• Train & Rail

“The tour was really well organised and took all the stress out of all the transfers and finding trains etc.”

• Train your way from Barcelona to Rome
• Explore the Carcassonne sights
• Follow Van Gough’s Arles inspiration trail

“We were able to get into the best locally run restaurants and really get to experience life like a local.”

“Seriously amazing trip of a lifetime. It is the top trip we have ever taken.”

“His having us carry the picnic lunches and then preparing them on the trail was a great idea.”

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• France & Italy Tours

France & Italy Tours and Trips 2024/2025

France and Italy are easily two of the most popular destinations in Europe. Known world over for their art, history, culture and cuisine, these two countries draw millions of tourists every year. Thanks to their proximity, these two countries could be easily explored in one go. With France and  Italy tours , experience two of the most culturally and historically rich countries in Europe and fully immerse yourself in their unique cuisines.

30 Trips in France & Italy with 5,238 Reviews

• Starts London, England
• Ends London, England

Classic Europe

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Active and outdoor & Cultural, religious and historic sites Active and outdoor , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='37694'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Coach & Taxi
• Age Range 10-99 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,535
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 719
• Total Price from: US$ 2,816
• Jul 02 Only 1 seat left
• Jul 07 Only 2 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Starts Rome, Italy
• Ends Paris, France

Best of Italy, Switzerland and Paris

• Trip customizable
• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Transport Boat, Private Vehicle & Coach
• Age Range 8-95 yrs
• Jun 23 10+ seats left
• Jun 30 10+ seats left

• Starts Lisbon, Portugal
• Ends Rome, Italy

Essential Portugal, Spain, Switzerland and Italy

• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Transport Private Vehicle, Train, Bus & Coach
• Jun 27 10+ seats left
• Jul 04 10+ seats left

• Starts Amsterdam, Holland

Amsterdam to Rome

• Activities City sightseeing
• Transport Coach
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,950
• Special Deal (17%): - US$ 335
• Total Price from: US$ 1,615
• Jul 10 Only 3 seats left
• Aug 21 Only 8 seats left

A Time to Remember

• Activities City sightseeing & Art and architecture
• Transport Private Vehicle, Boat & Bus
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Jun 16 10+ seats left

European Dream

• Activities City sightseeing & Art and architecture City sightseeing , Art and architecture , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='23447'>+2 more
• Age Range 5-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,395
• Special Deal (0%): - US$ 10
• Total Price from: US$ 2,385
• Jul 15 10+ seats left
• Jul 29 Only 8 seats left

Road to Rome

• Activities Food tours & Wine tasting tours Food tours , Wine tasting tours , Art and architecture , Mountains , Shopping and Markets & Farm and plantation visits 'data-more-tripid='21127'>+4 more
• Transport Coach & Private Vehicle
• Brochure Price: US$ 5,320
• Special Deal (12%): - US$ 623
• Total Price from: US$ 4,697
• Jun 24 10+ seats left
• Jun 25 Only 6 seats left

• Starts Courmayeur, Italy
• Ends Mont Blanc, France

Mont Blanc Family Adventure

• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Walking tours & Trekking and Hiking Walking tours , Trekking and Hiking & Adventure 'data-more-tripid='20349'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hostel & Hut
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Jul 21 Only 10 seats left

London Paris and Rome City Package

• Tour Type Independent Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Art and architecture City sightseeing , Art and architecture & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='38848'>+1 more
• Transport Flight, Train, Boat, Bus, Coach & Minibus
• Jun 26 10+ seats left
• Jul 03 10+ seats left

• Starts Chamonix, France
• Ends Courmayeur, Italy

Mont Blanc Rambler

• Activities Walking tours & Trekking and Hiking Walking tours , Trekking and Hiking & Adventure 'data-more-tripid='20436'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hostel
• Jun 16 Only 2 seats left

Mediterranean Journey

• Activities Food tours & Wine tasting tours Food tours , Wine tasting tours , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture , Farm and plantation visits & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='23449'>+4 more
• Sep 06 Only 7 seats left
• Sep 07 Only 7 seats left

• Starts Venice, Italy
• Activities Food tours & Wine tasting tours Food tours , Wine tasting tours , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Local culture , Mountains & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='21396'>+4 more
• Transport Coach, Private Vehicle, Taxi & Train
• Jun 24 Only 7 seats left
• Jul 08 Only 9 seats left

• Starts Paris, France

Paris to Rome: Picnics & Pizza

• Activities Food tours & City sightseeing
• Accommodation Hostel & Villa
• Transport Bus, Train & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 18-39 yrs
• Jun 30 Only 1 seat left

Rome to Paris: Cobblestones & Cuisine

• Accommodation Hostel, Hotel, Sleeper Train & Villa
• Transport Boat, Bus, Train, Sleeper Train, Private Vehicle & Minibus
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,199
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 840
• Total Price from: US$ 3,359
• Jul 06 Only 3 seats left
• Aug 17 Only 6 seats left

France & Italy Tour Reviews

• Sara Miller
• Aaron Pepin
• Marisa Nooney

France and Italy - Tour Highlights and Travel Tips

Tour Highlights

• Tours of French and Italian wine regions are a treat. In these tours you will get to visit local vineyards, and sample some world-renowned wines.
• High speed scenic train ride between Lyon and Milan could be an experience in itself. The journey takes as little as five hours.
• Tour the turquoise waters of the stunning Côte d'Azur and visit famous cities like Marseille and Saint Tropez.
• Tour Paris and explore famous art museums like the Louvre, The Musée d'Orsay, and the Paris Museum of Modern Art.
• Tour the wonders of ancient Rome and see many of the famous historic sites like the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain.
• After a weekend tour to Amalfi Coast , relax by the seaside with an Aperol spritz.
• See the Renaissance art and architecture from up close in Tuscany while on a trip to Florence . Visit the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, and enjoy a dry Chianti and fresh pasta.

Travel Tips

• Be sure to bring enough Euros when visiting rural areas of France and Italy, as card payment systems and ATMs are not common.
• When booking trains, buses, or flights during the peak season, it is a good idea to book well in advance.
• The laid-back cultures of France and Italy are evident when it comes to cooking and dining. The French and Italians like to take their time and enjoy their meal, so do not fret if your order is late.

A combined Italy and France tour is a great way to spend your holiday. You can experience the best that both countries have to offer, from artisan food to historical sites to cultural diversity.

To help you plan a perfect trip, be sure to check out our Italy travel guide and France travel guide .

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Magical Castles and Romantic Cities

France & italy in 17 days, 15 nights in destination.

Isabel Travel crafter

The ideal combination of our classic France and Italy tours! The perfect cultural journey to discover Paris, the enchanting Loire Valley, Rome, Florence, Venice and many more.

Trip Highlights

• map-pin-check-icon Caen
• map-pin-check-icon Loire Valley
• map-pin-check-icon Mont Saint Michel
• map-pin-check-icon Normandy
• map-pin-check-icon Paris
• map-pin-check-icon Tours
• map-pin-check-icon Florence
• map-pin-check-icon Rome
• map-pin-check-icon Venice

All flights

Accommodation

Some transfers

Breakfast only

Availability

Departures available until May 2025

Available Group tours

Solo travelers from + $1,720

Add up to 3 nights to your stay

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charm included

superior from + $700

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Select a day to go to next step

Categories Available :

From $3,599

• Accommodation in Charm and Superior category hotels.

From $4,299

• Hotels included are close to the city centres.

Accommodation: 15 Nights

Ibis Paris Brancion

Rating TripAdvisor travelers

Based on 618 reviews

The hotels we select comply with our high standards and requirements per category. The allocation is dependent on availability and seasonality, so you can be assigned any of our selection, including the following: Ibis Paris Porte d'Italie, Ibis Styles Paris Meteor Avenue de la Porte d'Italie

Land in  Paris  and enjoy its cultural delights. Roam the castles and delve into the reinassance culture of the breathtaking  Loire Valley . Explore  Mont Saint Michel  and the  Normandy  coast. Jet over to  Rome  and admire one of 'The Eternal City' before heading to  Florence  to discover its hidden treasures from the Italian Renaissance period. Finally, explore  Venice , the city of waterways and canals.

1st Day: US - Night on board

Ready to discover the spectacular cities and landscapes of France? Arrive at your departure airport to catch a flight to  Paris .* Night on board. * If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

2nd Day: Paris

Arrive at Paris airport and self-transfer to your hotel*.  Paris  is the capital of France and a great place to discover the city’s most famous tourist sights, the local culture and cuisine.   Overnight stay in Paris.

* Airport transfers in Paris are not included. You will have the possibility to add a private transfer to your package for an additional cost in the next step of the booking process.

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS

Ibis paris brancion or similar.

618 Reviews

See our full selection

3rd day: paris.

Breakfast at the hotel. Discover the city’s most famous tourist sights and monuments  on a Half Day Sightseeing Tour by bus with a professional English-speaking guide.  Marvel at Paris's best-known sights: Place Vendôme Square, place de l’opera, the Pantheon, Place de la Concorde, the Champs-Elysées, the Arc de Triomphe, the Invalides and the Eiffel Tower. End your tour in the city center. Why not grab a bite to eat in one of the many cafés or do a spot of shopping in this shoppers haven. The rest of the day is free to explore Paris at your leisure. Overnight stay in Paris.

Paris Sightseeing Tour

4th Day: Paris - Chambord - Tours

After breakfast, meet your English-speaking tour leader and depart Paris by coach towards the  Loire Valley  and its wonders of the Renaissance period. First stop is a visit to  The Chambord   Estate ,   one of the most emblematic examples of Renaissance castle architecture in France. Enjoy some free time to stroll at your own pace through the heart of the castle and its gardens. Take a break for lunch before continung to an included  wine tasting  in the beautiful limestone  Caves de Vouvray , where you'll discover local sparking wines. Following this visit, transfer to the historic city of  Tours  and check-in at the hotel before a free evening. Overnight stay in Tours. *Entry to the estate included. Guests will have the option to pay for an audio-guide separately. * Only entrance included with the possibility to book an audio-guide on the spot.  

Ibis Styles Tours Centre or similar

765 Reviews

Visit to the Chambord Chateaux & Estate

Wine tasting and guided tour of Cave de Vouvray

5th Day: Tours - Chenonceau - Tours

After breakfast at the hotel, explore the magnificent  Castle of Chenonceau *.   The two-story gallery stands upon a graceful arched bridge that crosses the Cher River which gives the impression that the castle is floating on water. Also known as "The Ladies’ Castle", it was initially constructed in 1513. Equalling the beauty of the interior, the Château's Renaissance French Gardens are perfectly landscaped with decorative pools and flower beds and are an important destination for garden lovers from all over the world. In the afternoon, visit  t he Royal Château of Amboise,  an emblematic monument of the Loire Valley. The palace was built above the river, with landscaped gardens stretching from the earth to the sky, offering one of the most remarkable panoramas of the Loire. Overnight stay in Tours . * Only entrance included with the possibility to book an audio-guide on the spot. 

Visit to the Castle of Chenonceau

Castle of Amboise

6th Day: Tours - Mont Saint Michel - Caen

Breakfast at the hotel. Depart from Tours heading towards the world-renowned  Mont Saint Michel* , a Unesco World Heritage site. The car park stands approximately 1.5 miles away from the island. On leaving the coach, head for the Place des Navettes, where shuttle buses called Passeurs transfer to the mount itself. The Mount was consecrated to St-Michel from the year 708. The  Benedictine Abbey**  presents a grand panorama of medieval architecture from the XI-XVI centuries. Spend some time exploring the village built on the slopes in the shadow of the fortifications. Head towards the Normandy Beach area, checking in at the hotel in  Caen . Overnight in Caen.

*Please bear in mind that the transfer from Tours to Mont St Michel will be around 280km, approximately 3 hours of driving. 

**Entry to the abbey included. Guests will have the option to pay for an audio-guide separately.

ACE HOTEL or similar

227 Reviews

Mont Saint-Michel & Benedictine Abbey

7th day: caen - day beaches tour - caen.

After breakfast, enjoy a  guided tour of WW-II’s major sights . Visit, learn about and pay homage to  Pointe du Hoc ,  Omaha Beach  and the  Colleville-Sur-Mer Cemetery  of the Allied Forces. After this solemn educational tour, spend a tranquil afternoon on your own exploring Caen. Located near the English Channel, Caen is a historic city replete with mediaeval architecture and the tomb of William the Conqueror. Overnight stay in Caen.

Normandy WW-II Landing Beaches

8th day: caen - honfleur - paris.

After breakfast, learn more about the best food and drink that this rich region of France has to offer, starting with a  visit to the Village du Fromager.  See all stages of cheese production and enjoy tasting the different types of cheese on offer.   After the visit, head to  Honfleur  in time for a lunch break. This small city and harbour dates back to the Vikings invasion in the 11th century. After a couple of hours exploring the city, continue eastwards until reaching Paris. Overnight stay in Paris.

Please bear in mind that the transfer from Caen to Paris will be around 240km, approximately 3 hours of driving.

Village Fromager and Cheese Tasting

9th day: paris - rome.

Breakfast* at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for your flight to Rome . Arrive in the Italian capital, and transfer to the hotel. Depending on your arrival time, the remainder of the day is free to begin exploring this romantic, historic city. The evening is the most magical time of day in Rome when the streets take on an even more charming character. Overnight stay in Rome. * Depending on the flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.

Marcella Royal Hotel or similar

3562 Reviews

10th Day: Rome

Breakfast at the hotel. Today head to the meeting point and enjoy a  guided visit to the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill* , three of the main archaeological sites of the Eternal City. Learn about the history of this empire, from its birth to the gladiatorial fights in the Colosseum, and appreciate the preserved corners of ancient Rome in the Forum and the Palatine Hill. We recommend the optional Piazzas and Fountains of Rome excursion.** The remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore the historic streets of Rome and dine on delicious Italian cuisine!*** Overnight stay in Rome. * Time and days in Rome can be changed according to the availability of the Colosseum tickets. It will be confirmed 15 days before arrival. However, all included excursions are already guaranteed. Download the PDF uploaded to your Exoticca account to check the time and pick up point of the activities. **  Optional Piazzas & Fountains of Rome Excursion:  Take a pleasant walk through the artistic heart of Rome to visit its most symbolic piazzas and fountains! Visit Piazza Navona, the most elegant of all Rome squares and home to Bernini's Four Rivers Fountain. See the Church of San Luigi, the incredible Pantheon and the legendary Trevi Fountain, an icon of the city. Finally, pay a visit to the famous Spanish Steps at Piazza di Spagna, the most photogenic spot in the city! ***  Optional Authentic Italian Dinner at a restaurant in Campo Di Fiori:  Enjoy an authentic Italian dinner in beautiful Campo Di Fiori Square, nestled in the heart of historic Rome. Soak up the atmosphere as you indulge in Italian dishes at a local restaurant.

Walking Tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Piazzas & Fountains of Rome Excursion

Authentic Italian Dinner at a Restaurant in Campo Di Fiori in Rome

11th Day: Rome

After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a day at your leisure in Rome. Perhaps visit the Vatican, trace the footsteps of the greats in the ancient streets of the old city or simply indulge in some delicious Italian ice cream. However you choose to spend your day, Rome is sure to delight you with its old-world charm and unbeatable sights. We suggest taking the optional Guided tour of Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel*. Overnight stay in Rome. *  Optional Skip-the-line Guided Tour of Vatican Museums, St. Peter's Basilica and Sistine Chapel : Explore the priceless treasures held within the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel! Visit the Pio Clementino Hall, Laocoon and Apollo Belvedere, Maps Gallery, Candelabra Gallery, Tapestries Gallery and the incredible Sistine Chapel. Afterwards, discover the incredible St. Peter’s Basilica and the atmospheric St. Peter’s Square, dominated by Michelangelo’s imposing Cupola! Please note:  Optional tour available Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays afternoon, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays only. Why not upgrade your trip with our Must See's of Italy package of 2 excursions, available in the next step of the booking process!

Pack of 2 Excursions: Must-sees of Italy

Skip-the-line Guided Tour of Vatican Museums, St. Peter's Basilica and Sistine Chapel

12th Day: Rome - Florence

Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, meet your transfer and head to the train station to catch the Frecciarossa high-speed train to Florence. Arrive in  Florence , the heart of the Italian Renaissance, and self-transfer to the hotel. Rest of the day at your leisure to explore the city and keep enjoying the Italian cuisine in this gourmet paradise. Overnight stay in Florence.

Hotel Grifone Firenze or similar

345 Reviews

13th Day: Florence

Breakfast at the hotel. Today head to the Historic Centre of Florence for a  guided walking tour of Florence  and discover the hidden secrets of the Tuscan capital. Start discovering  Piazza Repubblica , one of the fanciest of the city, before heading to  Loggia del Mercato Nuovo , a building where a local market takes place. Keep exploring the streets of Florence before arriving at the beautiful and well-known  Ponte Vecchio , the most iconic bridge in the city and one of its main symbols. You will then walk through the  Piazza della Signoria , the heart of Medieval Florence with the imposing  Palazzo Vecchio . End the tour admiring  Piazza San Giovanni , home to the impressive  Florence Cathedral , with its iconic Brunelleschi cupola and the famous  Giotto Belltower . Rest of the day at your leisure to continue exploring the captivating sights of Florence. Overnight stay in Florence.

Guided City Tour of Florence

14th day: florence.

Breakfast at the hotel. Full day at your leisure to enjoy your last day in the city. Florence's historical centre is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so why not take a stroll on your own to discover its hidden treasures. Overnight stay in Florence. *  Optional Day Trip to Pisa:  No trip to Italy is complete without a photo at the iconic leaning tower, so don't miss your chance to take a day trip to Pisa! Enjoy a guided walking tour of Piazza dei Miracoli and its monuments and visit the spectacular Pisa Cathedral before spending time at the legendary Leaning Tower of Pisa, learning all about the history of this University city along the way. 

Half-Day Tour to Pisa & The Leaning Tower

15th day: florence - venice mestre.

Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, self-transfer to the station to catch the Frecciarossa high-speed train to Venice (Mestre Station). Arrive in the romantic city of  Venice , self-transfer to the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day in the historic and enchanting Venice Mestre, the mainland town connected to Venice by rail and road bridges over the lagoon. Spend the night at your leisure and embrace the convenience of numerous transportation options, such as the frequent trains/buses to Venice center. The train station/bus stop is at walking distance from your hotel and it will take you to the iconic Venice center. Venice built across more than 100 small islands, Venice is a pleasure to explore on foot as you get lost in the labyrinthine streets, stumbling across hidden cafes and cultural gems along the way. Get out and discover the plentiful delights of this eternal city, such as the immense Piazza San Marco. Overnight stay in Venice Mestre. * You will have the option to add the transfers in the next step of the booking process. Important : please bear in mind that the accommodation included in Venice is located in  Venice Mestre,  which is situated outside the island, approximately 25-30 minutes away by train, bus or Taxi.

NH Venezia Laguna Palace or similar

3405 Reviews

16th Day: Venice

Breakfast  at the hotel. Today, set off on a  guided walking tour through Venice,  through the fascinating streets and across the canals; a crossroads of culture where East meets West. Admire the  Basilica and Piazza of San Marco  next to Gothic-style  Doge's Palace , the  Campanile  and the  Clock Tower  stand. Soak up the lively atmosphere of the Campo, a bustling square next to the Church of Santa Maria. Continue to marvel at the grand  Basilica of San Giovanni e Paolo , uncover legendary tales of  Marco Polo  and finally return to St. Mark’s Square by strolling through the main Venetian shopping street, the Mercerie, and immerse yourself in the historic buzz of the city.  The rest of the day is at your leisure to continue discovering this unique city at your own pace. Overnight stay in Venice Mestre. *  Optional Gondola Ride Experience:  One of the most famous characteristics of Venice is its historic gondolas and now you can be a part of this legacy yourself! Experience an unforgettable 35-minute gondola ride through the charming waterways of Venice including the iconic Grand Canal. The quintessential Venetian experience!  Note:  Please note that it is a shared gondola (up to five people for each one) so you might have to share it with other people. Why not upgrade your trip with our Must see's of Italy package of 2 excursions, available in the next step of the booking process!

Guided City Tour of Venice

Gondola ride in venice, 17th day: venice - us.

Breakfast* at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer by car from Venice Mestre to the airport for your return flight back to the US. Arrive in the US and end your trip. * Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day. ** Depending on the return flight schedule, you may arrive in the US the next day and the total duration of the trip would be 18 days.

Included activities

Included activity for day 3 in Paris

Discover some of the most iconic and memorable places of Paris and admire the beauty of this incredible and romantic city. See Place Vendôme Square, marvel at the Paris Opera House and head to the Latin Quarter to see the impressive Pantheon.

Duration 02:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

Physical rating:

Included activity for day 4

Visit the incredible Chambord Castle & Estate, one of the most emblematic chateaux in France and the finest example of French-Renaissance architecture!

Included activity for day 4 in Tours

Follow our guide through the 3 km of tunnels dug into the local limestone beneath a vineyard, discovering 4 types of the Vouvray sparking wine made here.

Duration 01:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

Included activity for day 5 in Tours

This historic Castle, built in the late 15th century, became the favored royal residence under Charles VIII. Thereafter a place of residence for French kings from the 15th to the 19th century.

Duration 01:30h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

Available Activities

Meeting Point: Campo de' Fiori, 12, 00186 Roma. In case of being vegetarians, notify in advance to adapt the menu.

Suggested activity for day 10 in Rome

Enjoy an authentic Italian dinner in beautiful Campo Di Fiori Square, nestled in the heart of historic Rome.

This tour only operates Tuesdays, Thursdays and Satudays. Meeting Point: In front of the theatre Argentina. Download the PDF uploaded to your Exoticca account to check the time

Discover the most symbolic piazzas and fountains in Rome! Visit Piazza Navona, home to Bernini's Four Rivers Fountain and see the Pantheon and the legendary Trevi Fountain. Finally, pay a visit to the famous Spanish Steps at Piazza di Spagna.

Duration 03:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

This tour will be at 9.45am or 13h45pm.Time and date will be reconfirmed on voucher.Tour NOT available on Sundays. Meeting point: via santamaura 28

Suggested activity for day 11 in Rome

Explore the treasures held within the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel! Visit Pio Clementino Hall, Candelabra Gallery, Tapestries Gallery and the incredible Sistine Chapel, among other sights. Also discover St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter's Square.

Vatican info: Tour NOT available Wednesdays morning and Sundays. Please avoid booking the activities included in this package separately.

Suggested activity for day 11

Make the most of your time in Italy with this pack of two unmissable experiences: a Skip-the-line guided tour of Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel and a gondola ride in Venice

Pick up time: info at destination

The price includes

• premium-care-icon Included in all our trips.   more information
• Departures from main US airports.
• International flights: US - Paris, Venice - US.
• Flight: Paris - Rome* more information
• Domestic High-speed train in Standard Class: Rome - Florence - Venice Mestre.
• 15 nights accommodation in Charm and Superior category hotels. See hotels included
• 15 breakfasts.
• Airport-hotel-airport transfers included.
• Entrance to the most famous Loire valley castles: Chambord, Chenonceau & Amboise and to Mont-St-Michel Abbey. See itinerary
• Air taxes and fuel surcharge.
• Sightseeing tour of Paris, guided tour of Normandy World War II landing beaches and guided walking tours in Florence and Venice.
• English speaking tour leader from day 4 to day 8***. Guided visit to the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill in Rome. more information
• Cheese factory experience with tasting & Wine tasting in the Caves de Vouvray.

*The cancellation policy applicable is according to the Terms and Conditions available and agreed at the time of your purchase

Not included

Tax*, meals, drinks, tips and any other services not mentioned in what's included.

* Accommodation taxes must be paid directly to the hotel. In France this amount can range from 5€ to 11€ approximately per person per night and it depends on the selected category. In italy it is 6€ per person per night.

** Transfers from Florence station - hotel, hotel - Florence station and Venice Mestre station - hotel are not included. Distances are short and the hotels are located within a few minutes walk from the train stations, however, they can be added for an additional cost in the next step of the booking process.

See important notes

Documentation of the internal flights will either be available in the "My bookings" section in your "Customer Area" 14 days before your trip or delivered to you on arrival at your destination. It is essential to fill in the passport information correctly for each passenger in the given boxes at the end of the reservations process. About Italy:

Hotel ratings in Italy are not governed by the same standards as those in the US, so please keep this in mind when selecting your desired accommodation category. * The shuttle service from the airport to the hotel will wait for you up to one hour after the arrival of your flight. If your flight is delayed or you experience issues collecting your luggage please get in touch with the local provider. Please note:  this itinerary is an  independent tour , not a group tour. It includes accommodation, some activities and some transfers, but you  will not  be accompanied by a guide throughout the entire trip, nor will you be traveling in a group. As an independent tour, the dates of the excursions may differ based on the availability of the tours. The final date will be available on the voucher uploaded on your Exoticca account prior to departure. Meeting points : the included tours will depart from designated meeting points. The location of the meeting points will be included in your trip details. Transfers to the meeting points are not included. ** Time and days in Rome can be changed according to the availability of the Colosseum tickets. It will be confirmed 15 days before arrival. However, all included excursions are already guaranteed. Important : please bear in mind that the accommodation included in Venice is located in  Venice Mestre,  which is situated outside the island, approximately 25-30 minutes away by train, bus or Taxi. If you visit during a religious or an official event or during a national holiday, certain attractions may be closed. Important: The availability of some activities cannot be guaranteed during major holidays, including Christmas & Holy Week. Due to the nature of the destination the terrain can be uneven at times, it may require you to walk on a rocky path, and up and down hills. Important: Download the PDF uploaded to your Exoticca account to check the time and pick up point of the activities. Important : The municipal government of Venice has instituted an entry fee for tourists to access the city on the following dates in 2024: April 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, and 30; May 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, and 26; June 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, and 30; July 6, 7, 13, and 14. Exoticca travelers may request a waiver as our itineraries include lodging in Venice or Mestre on the days of our visits to the city. All you need to do is request your proof of exemption here:  https://cda.ve.it/en/  Click on “exemptions,” select “I am a guest in an accommodation facility located in the municipality of Venice,” and follow the instructions to download your exemption code. Be sure to bring this with you during your time in Venice! You can complete the form up until the day of your arrival in Venice.

Useful information

Entry requirements

Valid passport with a minimum of six months validity.

No visa is required for tourist stays of up to 90 days.

Electricity

230 V. Adapter required.

There are no mandatory vaccinations required.

UTC + 01:00.

Other useful information

Taxis do not have a particular colour, however you can spot them at the station or in the street by their luminous lettering on the roof of the car.

Tourist Office website

http://ee.france.fr/

Offer conditions

Remember to download your e-ticket to confirm the times of your flights and to complete online check-in using the airline’s website, or directly at the check-in desk at the airport.

Accommodation at the hotels is as indicated. In the event of any changes to accommodation, they will always be of the same, or a higher category. The category of hotels is not standardized across all countries in the world. For this reason, the criteria may differ depending on the destination country's own standards.

In the case of adverse weather conditions, for safety reasons or for any other reasons deemed appropriate, the order and duration of the excursions included in the itinerary may be changed or cancelled without prior notice.

If you have reduced mobility, require the use of a wheelchair, or you would prefer this tour to be a private experience for you and your group, you must contact our Experts at +1 888-488-0592 before booking to ensure that your needs can be met. While on the road, it is highly unlikely that the vehicle will be equipped with wifi or bathroom facilities, though rest stops will be made for long trips. We recommend purchasing a new SIM card at the airport or placing an e-SIM before travel to guarantee internet connection.

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Exoticca Travel Stories

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Venice · Italy

A Taste of Italy...

Exotica provided us with an incredibly memorable, intellectually stimulating, and phenomenally affordable trip through Italy. The excursions offered and the tour guides chosen to lead them were top shelf. I’ve traveled to 82 countries and give Exoticca my strongest endorsement

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• How to Plan a Trip to Italy and France 2024: 5 Easy Steps

Italy and France boast numerous world-famous landmarks. They are a good combo for a trip to Europe.

In this guide, we'll help you put together a tour of Italy and France, ensuring a memorable journey filled with culture, history, and scenic beauty.

Content Preview

• 1. How Long to Spend
• 2. Itinerary Suggestions
• 3. Best Times
• 5. How to Travel

How Many Cities to Visit and How Long to Spend There

If you want to make the most of this trip to get a classic experience without rushing, we suggest a period of about 12 to 14 days.

You could spend about a week in Italy in two or three cities, usually chosen from its top three cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice. The other week, you would go to France to tour two or three cities, such as Paris, Marseille, and Nice, which are a classic combination.

If you are short on time, make sure to allow at least 10 days for both countries. Spend 5 days in Italy for one or two cities, such as Rome and Florence for culture and history or Rome and Venice for families.

Another 5 days are an ideal minimum for France. Paris is a must. Besides Paris, you could explore its surrounding areas such as Versailles and Normandy, or add one more city such as Lyon. Lyon is good for its historical sights, old towns, and food, and Nice is renowned for its beaches.

If you want to explore more places in Italy and France, you may need more than 2 weeks. Then, you could explore southern Italy, for example, the Amalfi Coast (2–3 days) and Sicily (3–7 days). You could go to France's Provence (2–3 days) or Bordeaux (2–3 days) for a wine tour.

Italy and France Itinerary Suggestions

Here are two itinerary ideas, for inspiration.

12-Day Itinerary of Italy and France

• Days 1–2: Rome
• Days 3–5: Florence
• Day 6–7: Venice
• Days 8–11: Paris
• Days 12: Departure

We suggest not packing your 12-day itinerary too tightly. This 12-day itinerary would focus more on the exploration in Italy. In Paris, considering the limited time and comfort of the pace, we recommend that you spend your time visiting Paris and its surroundings.

During a 1-week trip to Italy, consider visiting the most classic route — Rome, Florence, and Venice. These three cities epitomize Italy's cultural and historical richness, showcasing ancient Roman ruins and various renowned museums. Besides the rich cultural experience, you could also enjoy a gondola ride and an Aperitivo tour in Venice.

In the remaining 5 days in France, visit the famous Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum in Paris. Take a trip to Versailles for the gorgeous architecture and decorations. We would arrange private access to wander opulent halls and the famed Hall of Mirrors.

Take a day trip to Normandy. Explore Mont Saint-Michel, an iconic island commune crowned by a medieval abbey, and learn about its fascinating history.  

Then, the next day, embark on a journey to Champagne for a prestigious wine-tasting experience at a renowned Champagne house. Discover the picturesque vineyards and villages before visiting the historic church of Hautvillers, where the history of Champagne-making originated.

Contact us if you need suggestions on your upcoming France and Italy trip. We would create your itinerary based on your interests and requirements.

14 Days in France and Italy

Week 1: France

• Days 1–3: Paris
• Days 4–5: Marseille
• Days 6–7: Nice

Week 2: Italy

• Days 8–10: Rome
• Days 11–12: Florence
• Days 13–14: Venice

In the first week in France, besides Paris, you could go to southern France to explore the French Riviera. Marseille and Nice are the representative cities. There, you could enjoy the beaches and visit old ports, towns, and markets. If you have time, you could discover Monaco, a country within a country.

In Italy, you could go on a classic route to visit the top three cities. Learn about the history of ancient Rome by exploring historical ruins and architecture, such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Trevi Fountain. Learn about the Renaissance in Florence's museums and streets. Experience the beauty of Venice in its canals.

Feel free to contact us if you are interested in this itinerary or if you want to make an itinerary based on your own ideas.

Best Times to Visit France and Italy

If you want to have a good time with comfortable weather and relatively fewer crowds, we recommend visiting France and Italy in April, May, early June, September, and October.

Late June, July, and August are the peak season. July and August are also the months to appreciate Provence's lavender. Summer in France is cooler than in Italy. In July, the highest temperatures in Paris are usually about 30°C (86°F), while Rome sometimes exceeds 35°C (95°F).

If you are planning a summer trip to Italy and France, make sure to book in advance (at least 3 months). With careful planning and expert advice, you could still have an enjoyable tour during the peak season. Feel free to contact us if you need any help.

Winter is the offseason in both countries. Winters are chilly, sometimes with rain. But you could enjoy less-crowded attractions and get better discounts.

You could learn more information on the weather and travel by reading our Best Times to Visit Italy .

Costs for a Trip to Italy and France

The travel cost in France could be a little more expensive than for Italy. The daily private tour cost in Italy is typically about 400–500 USD per person and 500–600 USD in France.

These estimated prices are based on a high-quality private tour for two people, including airfares within/between Italy and France, 4- or 5-star hotels, attractions, guides, and transfers. Kids under 10 would get 30–50% off.

We would give you a more detailed quote based on your specific itinerary, your travel time, group size, and other requirements. Feel free to contact us .

How to Travel between Italy and France

Flying is the most recommended and quickest way to travel between France and Italy. The major cities in Italy (Rome, Venice, and Florence) have direct flights to Paris. The journey takes about 2 hours.

If you're not in a hurry and want a slower pace of travel, you could also consider taking the train. There is a direct train between Paris and Milan, but it was closed due to a landslide in the Alps. If you want to take a train now, you would need to change at Geneva in Switzerland. The whole train journey takes about 10 hours.

Transportation arrangements between the two countries are included in our tour services. We will recommend the best way for you to travel between Italy and France and book tickets in advance according to the itinerary arrangements between the two countries and your preferences.

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France and Italy: Best 2 to 3 week itinerary for first-time visitors

France and Italy make for a perfect first visit to Europe, but there are so many potential places to visit that planning well is extremely important. Of the two, Italy is a bit more straightforward because it has a “Big 3” of tourist cities consisting of Rome, Florence, and Venice. France, on the other hand, has Paris, but beyond the capital it can be hard to know where you should go.

These two countries contain several of what I consider to be the best cities in Europe to visit for anyone , so it’s just a matter of narrowing down where to go and how much time to spend in each place. In the article below you’ll see the best option to string together a tour of these countries in two or three weeks. There will be options and decisions you’ll have to make based on your own tastes, but no matter how you do it this should be an unforgettable trip.

This article was most recently updated in August, 2022.

How many cities to visit?

There are  many reasons why fast travel might be your best option , but only up to a point. With only a few exceptions, 3 nights per city is a good minimum even for those wishing to see as much as possible, or 2 nights in the smaller cities.

If you are going to France and Italy for sure then start with Paris and Rome as the foundation and add cities in between to the degree you’ll have time. France is a deceptively large country so travel will eat up some time unless you are flying or taking the bullet trains.

>>> Going just to Italy? :  Here are the best first-time Italy itineraries for 3 days to two weeks

Flying in and out

Unless you are starting from elsewhere in Europe, you’ll want to carefully choose which airport to fly into. It used to be that Paris was one of the cheapest, and it’s still competitive, but it doesn’t rank high on the list of  European cities that are cheapest to fly into .

Two one-way tickets is ideal

It used to be that round-trip tickets were always much cheaper than two one-way tickets, but often that is no longer true. Sometimes the one-way flights are exactly half the round-trip fare, sometimes a bit more than half, and other times they are double. It’s hard to predict so it’s worth comparing them yourself.

The first thing to try is this:

• (your city) to Paris one-way
• Rome to (your city) one-way

Compare that to this:

• (your city) to Paris round-trip
• (your city) to Rome round-trip

If the two one-way flights are within US$150 or so of either round-trip, then they are your best option. If the round-trips are much cheaper then your best option is to buy one of those as well as a one-way flight between the cities (for around US$100) for just before you fly home. It would cost more on the train and also take 14 hours, so flying that last part is the way to go unless you are planning on using the last leg of a Eurail Pass on an overnight run.

Getting around once in Europe

Even on trains, you still have three main options:

• Buying a France-Italy regional Eurail Pass
• Buying individual train tickets in advance
• Buying individual train tickets one at a time when you get there

If you are under 26 you can qualify for the 2nd Class Eurail Pass, which will be ideal for many people. If you are over 25 you have to buy a 1st Class Eurail Pass, and those are probably only best for those with a bit more money to spend.

Best cities in France and Italy for first-time visitors

Paris (minimum 3 nights but even that is rushing it).

It’s true that you can’t just all of France by just visiting Paris on your first trip, but it’s still not a bad idea because this city is the center of almost everything and even the areas surrounding it are filled with great sights, amazing histories, and plenty of things to do. It’s almost impossible to get a bad meal in the city and most of the food is reasonably priced considering the quality. Be prepared for a small hotel room, even if you pay a lot, so it’s more about paying for the location rather than for a luxurious and large place to sleep.

The sights in Paris are almost all worthwhile, but don’t think you have to spend an entire day in the Louvre in order to enjoy it. In fact, I highly recommend taking the 3-hour double-decker sightseeing tour (run by several companies) on your first day in order to see at least the exteriors of all of the famous landmarks. If you want to go inside at least a few of the big attractions you might consider getting a Paris Pass , which also covers the bus tour and a cruise on the Seine.

Spend at least three nights in Paris itself and if you have extra days you might do a day trip (tour buses are a great choice) of the nearby Loire Valley. It’s filled with famous castles and palaces where the rich used to live outside of the city, and many are available for tours.

Paris to Nice by train: About 6 hours

>>> Check Paris hotel deals

Provence region (optional 2 or 3 nights)

The main city is Arles and that is probably the best base, although Avignon (where the Popes lived) is also very tourist friendly and could be a good choice. In fact, Avignon is the beginning of the famous Côtes du Rhone wine road, which connects a series of hill towns with amazing scenery and of course wine tasting. Something like this might be better for a second or third trip to France unless you’ve got weeks to spend here. Provence is also known for its cuisine, as it stands out even within a country where the food is amazing virtually everywhere you go.

Paris to Avignon by train: About 3.5 hours Avignon to Nice by train: About 3 hours

Nice, France (minimum 2 nights)

Nice has a famous beach (made of pebbles rather than sand), but it’s also an important cultural capital with great museums and a thriving food scene. You could easily spend 2 or 3 quick days in Nice alone, but you might also consider spending a few hours in Cannes and/or Monaco, which are both only about 30 minutes away by train in either direction. The cheaper hotels in Nice are near the train station anyway, so that’s something to consider if you want to visit all 3 places in one short trip.

Nice to Milan by train: About 5 hours Nice to Venice by train: About 7.5 hours

>>> Check Nice hotel deals

Milan (1 night or just skip it)

The down side, however, is that Milan is mostly a business/financial city that isn’t as charming as the rest on this list. It’s one of Europe’s fashion capitals as well, but the casual visitor wouldn’t notice. Worst of all, accommodation in Milan can be insanely expensive if there is a trade fair or event in town. If you are coming through in between fairs and events, hotels can actually be unusually cheap, so it’s worth checking rates if you are considering stopping. Generally speaking, I recommend skipping Milan at least on your first trip.

>>> Check Milan hotel deals

Milan to Venice by train: About 2.5 hours

Venice (1 night minimum, 2 nights maximum)

The trick is to stay at least one night, if not two,  on the main island itself . Perhaps surprisingly, Venice shuts down early, with most restaurants and bars closed by around 10pm. But in those evening hours as well as the morning hours on the following day, the place can feel magical and like a fairy tale destination. Venice is also quite compact so seeing the main highlights in 24 hours isn’t difficult. Depending on your budget, spend one or two nights on the main island and you’ll be quite satisfied by the time you leave. You’ll be sick of the crowds by then anyway.

Venice to Florence by train: About 2 hours

>>> Check Venice hotel deals

Florence (2 nights minimum, plus side trips)

Whether you are coming from Venice or from Rome, this is the point on your trip that you’ll be able to catch your breath a bit. It’s also the cheapest city on this list so lingering here will be more affordable in addition to relaxing. The cuisine here is, of course, world famous, and it can get even better and cheaper if you spend a day or two in one of the many scenic villages in this part of Italy.

From Florence to Rome it’s only around 90 minutes by train, so another easy and pleasant travel day.

Pisa (a few hours on a day trip at most)

Regardless of your starting point, you can go to the Pisa Centrale train station and walk about 25 minutes to the Leaning Tower area, or take a train to the Pisa San Rossore train station and 7 minutes to the Field of Miracles. There are also bus tours from Florence that take you all the way there, but those come with the slowness of large-group travel.

>>> Check Florence hotel deals

Cinque Terre (1 night, optional)

When you see a photo of these villages it’s hard not to be drawn in so if you are in that group you could add a day or two in this area either before or after Florence. Note that the scenic footpaths connecting the towns are partly closed down at times due to instability, so a quick tour by train or even by boat might be a better option.

Florence to Rome by train: About 90 minutes

Rome (minimum 3 nights)

All of that said, Rome is absolutely a must-visit, although you won’t be blamed for hustling through the city quickly and efficiently so you can spend more time in the relative serenity of anywhere else. The Eternal City is also quite expensive, especially by Italian standards, which is another reason to save only a few days there rather than a full week.

>>> Check Rome hotel deals

Naples/Pompeii/Sorrento/Amalfi Coast (optional up to 4 nights)

The “big 3” in Italy are Rome, Florence, and Venice, and if you have time for only 3 cities those are the obvious ones to choose. But if you want to dig deeper into Italy and you have enough time, your next best choice will be to base yourself in Sorrento and use it to explore Naples, the ruins of Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, and the island of Capri.

Stay in Sorrento

Amalfi Coast and the Island of Capri

The other main nearby attraction is the famous tourist island of Capri, which is best known for its Blue Grotto attraction. The ferry from Sorrento only takes 20 minutes each way and leaves hourly most of the day. This is another easy and ideal day trip where you can have breakfast and dinner in Sorrento and a wonderful time in Capri in between.

>>> Check Sorrento hotel deals

Filling in the rest of your itinerary

If you have only two weeks total then the above minimums will also pretty much be your maximums, give or take a day. But if you have three weeks you will be adding days to these cities or adding new cities altogether. Honestly, if this is your first trip to these countries, you’ll really get the most bang for your buck by adding extra days in Paris or Florence or both.

Rushing around for two weeks can be exhilarating, but rushing around for three weeks can really start to get exhausting. It’s better to plan to go slower and if you are getting bored you can do a day or overnight trip to something nearby. But you won’t get bored, and if you do you are probably doing it wrong.

Cinque Terre photo by  World Walk About on Flickr

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France and Italy: Best 2 to 3 week itinerary for first-time visitors " --> All Comments

Thanks for the great starting point!!

Hi Roger, I just stumbled on your site and it is amazing, so thank you! I would like to take my wife, 15 and 18 year old kids to Europe in June 2024 for the first time. Gotta see Paris, but what other countries/cities would you recommend seeing if we were planning a 14 day trip. Having never been across the Atlantic it’s a bit overwhelming to a first timer. I like planning trips so I’m not opposed to doing it myself if possible. Any help or suggestions are greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance for your help.

I’m glad you have found this to be helpful. I think you are on the right track and with 14 days I’d start in Paris and then either stop in Nice or a wine region and then make my way to Italy for the second week. So again to simply, I’d start in Paris for 3 or 4 days and then probably choose something else in France for the next 3 or 4 days. Then get to Venice by train or plane and spend 1 or 2 days there (it’s small and you can see it in a day or so) and then take a train to Florence for 2 or 3 days and then a train to Rome for your final 3 days or so. Then you’ll probably have to fly back to Paris to board your flight home, but I’d check if you can get an open-jaw ticket that is home to Paris and then Rome to home. Usually those cost a lot more though.

The article above should give you lots of information and options on filling in the blanks. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

14-Day Travel Itinerary for a Dream Trip to France & Italy

Hello World

For a trip to France and Italy, you need at least a 2-week itinerary. For the French part of the journey, the finger points to Paris, the most popular and first stop for anyone going to France. Next, I have three most wanted options for you – Nice, French Riviera, then Florence, and – finally and quite obviously – Rome, the Italian capital. 

But before taking the trip, plan well by booking flights and accommodation deals in advance to get the best deal.

Don’t worry, from deciding the perfect itinerary to exploring the major attractions – every detail is well-planned in this blog. 

Without further ado, let the trip begin –

Factors to Consider for Your France and Italy Trip

Setting off on a trip is a lovely way to start an adventure that knows no limits and moves to the beat of wanderlust. But there are several factors to consider first before planning the trip, such as the following –

Best Time for A Trip to France & Italy

The France and Italy trip is a timeless wonder that can be explored all year long unless it changes abruptly. Still, choosing the right or best time for the trip might save you some extra hassle or regret. Here are the seasonal details for both countries –

• In summer , France resonates with warmth, offering al fresco delights, from Paris’s historical charm to the French Riviera’s Mediterranean embrace. 
• Fall offers a scenic canvas, perfect for vineyard explorations in Southern France. 
• Winter casts a festive spell, with Christmas markets and vibrant city life. 
• Spring , a bloom of beauty, lures with milder temperatures and blossoming landscapes.

On the other hand, with the four seasons intertwined, Italy’s weather creates a beautiful tapestry. 

• Summers radiate warmth, making for delightful excursions.
• Spring and Fall entice with their pleasantness.
• You can also cherish the briskness of winter, which is chillier in the north and produces a varied and beautiful weather canvas.

So, it would be best if you plan your trip to France and Italy in the springtime (April–May) or early fall (September–October). There’ll be fewer crowds, mild weather, and cheaper deals.

Bonus Tips – If you enjoy skiing, a winter vacation to Italy might be a great choice. On the other hand, the off-season (November to March) is the most affordable time, both in France and Italy.

Securing the Best Flight Deals & Tips

When it comes to buying flights, planning an affordable trip to France or Italy is very efficient, as you’re on a long trip. So, here are some tips to get the best flight deals to and between France and Italy –

• Book 3-6 months ahead and be flexible with your dates.
• Utilize tools & flight comparison websites to choose the best airlines to fly from the US to France . 
• Avoid peak seasons and consider midweek flights.
• Check flights to/from alternative airports and consider connecting flights.
• Join airline loyalty programs, accumulate frequent flyer miles, and consider airline credit cards.
• Look into low-cost carriers and be aware of additional fees.
• Redeem credit card travel rewards and transfer points to airline partners.
• Monitor deals and promotions, watch for flash sales, and subscribe to airline newsletters.
• Consider Multi-City flights, book open-jaw tickets, and use multi-city search options.
• Use Incognito mode when searching for flights in private browsing mode to avoid fare increases.

In this regard, you can use Google Flight to get the best flight deals. You also can use other trusted travel search engines such as Skyscanner, Expedia, and so on which will assist you to find different France, and Italy vacation packages that are quite reasonable.

Essential Travel Documents and Preparations

Before you pack your bags and hop on a trip like a London, Paris, Italy, or Greece tour, you need to take care of some essential travel documents and preparations. Such as

• Passport & Visa – Ensure the passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Check necessary Visa or Green Card requirements for both France and Italy (a Schengen visa may apply for many travelers).
• Travel Insurance – Get comprehensive coverage for health, cancellations, and belongings.
• Personal Identification and Copies – Carry a secondary ID and photocopies of key documents.
• Health and Vaccination Records – Carry proof of required vaccinations and check health advisories.
• Flight Tickets and Itinerary – Keep your flight tickets secure and make a detailed itinerary.
• Accommodation Reservations – Have printed or digital copies of all hotel or rental confirmations.
• Transportation Tickets – Secure tickets or passes for trains, buses, and other travel. Also, you can get a Eurail Pass for discounted regional travel. 
• International Driving Permit – Get this if you plan to rent a car, along with your driver’s license.
• Credit and Debit Cards – Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid transaction issues.
• Emergency Contact Information – List contacts, including family, friends, and embassies.
• Local Currency and Payment Options – Carry euros and ensure your cards work internationally.
• Travel Guide and Language Phrases – Bring a guide and learn basic French and Italian phrases.
• Mobile Phone and Charger – Ensure your phone is unlocked and bring the necessary chargers and adapters.
• Packing Essentials – Pack appropriately for weather and activities, including medications.

Crafting the Perfect Itinerary for the France-Italy Trip

For your France and Italy itinerary, 2 or 3 weeks should be enough.

Feels like a lot?

Here’s what a brief itinerary looks like for a France-Italy trip –

• Day 1: Arrival in Paris & First Impression
• Day 2–3: Paris 
• Day 4–7: Nice
• Day 8–10: Florence
• Day 11–13: Rome 
• Day 14: Flight Back Home

In case you’re wondering if France is safe to travel alone . The answer is a big yes! It’s completely safe for all travelers. So, why wait? Mark the places you’ll visit on the trip to France and Italy.

Must-Visit Places in France

Now let’s talk about the places in each city of France and Italy and their highlights that you’re about to explore in France -Italy tour –

Welcome to the City of Lights, Romance, and Beauty! Settle into your hotel and maybe take a leisurely evening stroll to soak in the city’s romantic atmosphere. There are so many things to do and see in Paris, such as –

• The Eiffel Tower – offers breathtaking views.
• The Louvre Museum – with a world of art and history. 
• The Notre Dame Cathedral – with its stunning Gothic architecture and Romanesque style. 
• Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe – Stroll down the world’s most famous avenue and stand beneath the grand Arc de Triomphe.
• Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur – Explore the bohemian charm of Montmartre and enjoy the views from Sacré-Cœur. 
• Disneyland Paris – you can take your family for an unforgettable Disneyland experience in Paris . 
• Seine River Cruise – have a romantic cruise along the Seine.
• Versailles – take a day trip to see the majestic Versailles Palace and its surroundings. 

Now, it’s time to travel from Paris to the South of France ’s heart.

You can easily travel from Paris to Nice by bus, train, or self-driving. So, if you are planning a south of France and Italy itinerary then Nice is the best way to enter the Italian Riviera.

So, here’s an overview of the must-visit attractions and activities awaiting you in the Capital of the French Riviera –

• Walk along the beautiful Promenade des Anglais with the Mediterranean at your side.
• Hike up to Colline du Château for spectacular views over Nice.
• Discover the colorful world of Henri Matisse at his dedicated museum Musée Matisse.
• Soak in the lively atmosphere of Place Masséna, the heart and historic square of Nice.

Must-Visit Places in Italy

After an awe-inspiring journey in France’s capital and the heart of the French Riviera, it’s time for an Italian treat. Such as the following –

The capital of the Tuscany region, Florence awaits you with its stunning Renaissance art and architecture, including masterpieces like Michelangelo’s “David” and Brunelleschi’s Duomo. The main attractions here are –

• Uffizi Gallery – Admire masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and more.
• Ponte Vecchio – Wander across this 14-century bridge, lined with charming shops.
• Piazza della Signoria – Enjoy the bustling atmosphere and impressive statues of this historic square.
• Boboli Gardens – Relax in this serene and expansive garden.

Finally, the capital city of Italy will add a stunning and memorable end to your France-Italy trip. In fact, there are so many things to do in Rome, as in any capital city. 

• Colosseum – Takes you back in time to the awe-inspiring arena where gladiators fought to death once.
• Vatican City – Check out the St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel.
• Roman Forum & Palatine Hill – The ancient ruins of the Roman Forum and enjoy marvelous views from the Palatine Hill.
• Trevi Fountain – Toss a coin into the mythical fountain and make a wish.
• Piazza Navona – Experience the elegance with its beautiful fountains and lively cafes.
• Pantheon – Visit the remarkably preserved Pantheon, dating back to AD 609 and a marvel of ancient engineering.

Transportation Options in France and Italy

In the next section, I will guide you through the excellent public transit systems of France and Italy that make getting around a breeze and won’t break the bank.

Getting to And Around France & Italy

Here, we’ve listed down the important transportation tips for you to travel, in and out of France to Italy. 

To get around Paris, you have –

• Ride Sharing Services

Apart from that, Paris is a great city for walking along the historic landmarks and the Seien River. Then, getting from Paris to Nice – 

• Fastest & Direct – Train (5.5-6 hours) / Flight (1-1.5 hours)
• Cheapest – Bus (from $15)

After your arrival and during your stay in Nice, you can use buses, trams, or Ride-sharing services to get around. And hiking or walking are always good options for wandering around.

Getting from Nice to Florence –

• Direct & Expensive – Flight (1.5 hours)
• Fastest & Cheapest – Train (5-7 hours) (from $16.80)
• Cheapest & Direct – Bus (from $21) & (5 hours 35 minutes)

After arriving in Florence, you can use bus, taxis, trams/trains to get around the city and explore.

Getting from Florence to Rome –

• Fastest & Direct – Train (1.5-2 hours)
• Cheapest – Bus (from $7)

When in Rome, you can use the metro, bus, tram, taxi, suburban trains, and trolleybuses to get around. The buses, trams, metro, and train lines in Rome connect every corner of the city like a web, so you can get anywhere easily. 

But the price and time duration given are approximate as they can change based on traffic, seasonal pressures, and your activities, among other factors. 

General Tips for Navigating Through France & Italy

Here are some things you should keep in mind for a smooth transfer from one place to another while you’re on your France-Italy trip – 

• Whether for trains, buses, or flights, booking in advance often secures the best rates.
• Car rentals and ride-sharing offer flexibility but consider traffic and parking, especially in busy cities.
• Utilize local transport like trains and buses for efficient travel within cities and nearby regions if you wish to travel around France without a car . 
• High-speed trains such as the TGV, Trenitalia, and Frecciarossa offer efficient travel between cities.
• When using public transport, lighter luggage makes transfers easier.
• Whenever possible, choose scenic routes for a more enjoyable travel experience.
• Always check flight, train, and bus schedules in advance to avoid last-minute surprises.
• Use apps and local websites for up-to-date travel information and booking options.
• Ensure you can drive a manual vehicle, and have an International Driving Permit (if needed), and third-party liability insurance.
• Rent from Avis, Hertz, or Europcar for vacation packages. Also, BlaBlaCar offers affordable long-distance ride-sharing.

What About Accommodation Plans?

For a successful and smooth trip to France and Italy, you need to have useful knowledge of where you’ll stay. This will reduce the chance of any hassle during the trip. 

So, let’s see what accommodation options and areas you have in both of these places –

Accommodation Options in France

The first rule of staying in France, especially in Paris, is making sure which area agrees with you. Then you can opt for an accommodation type, considering your preference and budget.

So, in Paris, the famous but practical tips for your accommodation are as follows –

• Best Areas to Stay – Consider the Marais for historic charm, the Latin Quarter for a lively atmosphere, or Saint-Germain-des-Prés for a mix of culture and sophistication.
• Hotel – Look for hotels near major attractions like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre for convenience.
• Hostels (Budget-friendly) – Can be found in areas like Montmartre or near Gare du Nord .
• Boutique Hotels – Explore boutique hotels in Le Marais or the trendy Canal Saint-Martin area for a unique experience.

Next, in Nice, the accommodation options for you are – 

• Best Areas to Stay: The Old Town (Vieux Nice) offers charm and proximity to the beach.
• Hotel: Look for hotels along the Promenade des Anglais for easy access to the beach.
• Hostels (Budget-friendly) : Can be found in the Old Town for a lively atmosphere and proximity to restaurants and bars.
• Boutique Hotels : Explore boutique hotels in the Old Town for a unique and charming stay.

Accommodation Options in Italy

The accommodation rules are the same in Italy, as you’ll need to figure out the best area in the city. Luckily, we’ve got you covered. 

In Florence, you can find authentic Tuscany accommodation options, such as –

• Best Areas to Stay: The historic center (Centro Storico) for its proximity to major attractions, the Oltrarno district for a quieter atmosphere with artisan shops and cafes, or Santa Croce for its lively atmosphere. 
• Hotel: Stay in the historic center for easy access to Florence’s top attractions.
• Hostels (Budget-friendly): These can be found near the train station or in the Oltrarno district.
• Boutique Hotels: Look for boutique hotels near the Ponte Vecchio or in the Oltrarno district for a more intimate and local experience.

Finally, in Rome, you’ll find plenty of accommodation options and areas, but, as always, choose wisely. 

• Best Areas to Stay: The historic center (Centro Storico) is ideal for first-timers, Trastevere for a bohemian vibe, charming streets and great restaurants, or Monti/Prati for both bohemian and classical elements.
• Hotel: Stay in the historic center for easy access to Rome’s top attractions.
• Hostels (Budget-friendly): Hostels can be found near Termini Station, near Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, or in the lively Trastevere neighborhood.
• Boutique Hotels: Explore boutique hotels in the Monti neighborhood for a trendy and stylish stay.

Budgeting Your Trip to France and Italy

France and Italy itinerary or any other country trip in Europe is always a dream for many travelers. And, now that you have the overall idea of the trip combining France and Italy, it’s time to plan your budget.

For a 2-week trip to France and Italy, a budget of $10,000 for two people is generally sufficient but may be tight if you upscale your travel style and preferences. Now, let’s check out the tips and tricks that can help you save extra money on the trip:

• If you go between mid-October and mid-March, you can save money on flights, hotels, and trips.
• Use metro, bus, and tram passes in big to medium-sized cities. For example, the Paris Visite Pass lets you move as much as you want and gets you into many attractions for less money.
• Smaller towns are better than big cities for finding cheap places to stay, eat, and use services.
• If you want to save a lot of money on train travel between towns and regions, buy a rail pass.
• On some occasions, flights give attractive discounts on France, and Italy vacation packages. So, keep an eye on the websites.
• If you want to use an ATM or pay with a credit card abroad, check your bank’s fees. You can also compare rates from different credit card companies.
• Check out full guides for more information on how to have a cheap trip to France and Paris.

I hope all these tips will help you in your France and Italy trip and let you enjoy a stress-free, smooth journey.

Concluding Words

Among the European countries, France and Italy are two of the centers of attraction for travel lovers. These two countries offer a rich variety of attractions, cultures, and cuisines. So, whether you are looking for romance, history, art, or adventure, you will find something to suit your taste in these two nations.

Hope this trip to France and Italy will enable you to take the time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Happy Travels!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you do Italy and France in one trip?

Yes of course. But I would suggest not doing so as this will result in a great rush.

Which country is the best between Italy and France?

It varies from person to person. I personally like France more because I love the diversified beauty it offers to its visitors.

How long does it take to fly from France to Italy?

It takes around 2-3 hours to reach Italy from France.

What is the cheapest month to travel to Italy?

During the off-season like summer for France and winter for Italy is comparatively cheaper than other months. You can make a cheap tour if you plan a proper Italy and France itinerary for 12 days.

Is the train ride from Paris to Italy scenic?

Without a doubt, the scenic route from Paris to Rome by train is one of the best experiences you can ever have.

Kayla D. Martinez

Senior Travel Writer

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Ciao Bella Italia!

Whether it’s old-world traditions and wonderful culture, cuisine, history, fashion or natural beauty, Italy is special to many people for different reasons. Few other countries boast so many legendary cities. There are also many charming hill towns and coastal villages that showcase Italy’s amazing natural beauty. From the big cities to the small towns, there is always something exciting to see in Italy. With so many reasons to visit, the rest is up to you!

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Destination must-see's.

Cinque Terre:

Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage site, which means that it is a valuable and protected place on earth. Feel like you have stepped back in time when you visit this collection of colorful medieval villages sitting high on the edge of the sea.

Visit a place that was frozen in time in the summer of A.D. 79. Soak in 2,000 years of history at the excavated ruins of Pompeii as a local expert provides you with a detailed view of this incredibly preserved archaeological site.

The Colosseum is the largest amphitheater ever built and perhaps one of the most recognizable places on the planet. It sits right in the center of Rome and was constructed by emperors of the Flavian dynasty. Imagine being there in its day!

Go off the beaten path to see the Castello Sestiere area with a local guide and get to know authentic Venice. You’ll be able to walk canal by canal through streets lined with historic buildings and old churches. See how the locals live every day with each step you take in this unique city.

Destination Must-Do's

Get a Taste of Sicilian Street Food:

Each region of Italy has its own dishes of renown, and Sicily has a rich street food culture. Chickpea fritters (panelle), fried potato croquettes (crocchè) fried risotto balls (arancine/arancini), and cannoli are just some of the items you may find while sampling the local fare.

Tour Lucca:

The fascinating medieval city of Lucca is surrounded by 16th-century Renaissance walls. Choose to see it by bike or on foot, but either way will bring you to see the Cathedral of San Martino, the Piazza Napoleone and the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, all sites you simply should not miss.

Visit Capri:

On a beautiful day, take a boat trip from the stunning Amalfi Coast to the lovely Mediterranean island of Capri. There, a local expert will bring you on a tour of a dreamy place that can only be described as paradise on earth.

Drink wine:

Just about anywhere you go in Italy, you’re going to encounter fantastic wine. Whether you’re in Tuscany, Stresa, Piedmont, Umbria or any other region of this beautiful country, taste the wine. Buy a few bottles and bring it home to enjoy with friends and family.

Expert Advice

Some of what you think of as traditional Italian foods are actually American interpretations and not widely available there. Some examples are heavy cream sauces such as alfredo, spaghetti and meatballs, and chicken parmigiana (however, you may find these items in more tourist-oriented restaurants).

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Italy tours discovery guide

Captivating, complicated, born and reborn for millennia—Italy continues to inspire artists and beguile travelers. Follow your heart to the rolling Tuscan hillside dotted with cypress trees, listen to the water lap Venetian canals, and succumb to the romance of Rome.

4.7 out of 5 stars

4.8 out of 5 stars

What to know before you go

Italy’s 59 million residents are joined by nearly as many yearly visitors—it’s the fifth most visited country in the world.

Rome—known as the Eternal City—is older than Italy itself, predating the country by 2,600 years.

With more than 162,000 coffee bars to choose from, Italians cherish their daily cuppa. To avoid riling up the locals, remember that you can enjoy an espresso any time, but cappuccinos are exclusively ordered in the morning.

Sumptuous art and architecture, bucolic village piazzas, and a rapidly melting pistachio gelato—all of which you’ll experience with our Italy travel packages.

ITALY BESTSELLER

See it all on our Grand Tour

See florence, rome, venice, and smaller treasures, too. it’s the most popular of our italy trip packages for a reason., venice, florence & rome: three iconic cities, three ways to see them, the stay a little longer, slow down to savor the romance and relics of italy, the small but mighty, short on time live la dolce vita in one perfect week, the solo, not alone, we’ve got your back—and your future best friends, any time in italy is time well spent. want to make the most of your trip, see italy from amatriciana to ziti.

Piedmont & Tuscany with America’s Test Kitchen

Curated with America’s Test Kitchen, join a truffle hunt, try your hand at chocolate making, and roll your own fresh pasta.

Flavors of Tuscany & Umbria

From handmade pasta simmering in full-bodied sauces to the locally produced wines of Chianti, Montalcino, and Montefalco, discover the simple, honest flavors of central Italy.

Want to experience Italy like a local?

Check out our best tips for embracing life as a traveler, not a tourist.

Southern Italy & Sicily

Let the coastal climates and volcanic soils embrace you with a distinct personality punctuated by delicately fragranced almond pastries, cheeses, and robust wines.

Campania, Puglia & the Amalfi Coast

The sole of Italy’s boot beckons you in Naples—birthplace of the Neapolitan pizza—before wooing you with the radiating warmth of fresh focaccia in the Itria Valley.

Put the “I” in Italy

Our solo travelers share their advice for where to go, what to eat, and how to spend your free time while traveling to Italy solo on a guided tour .

Signature experiences for your memory vault. Why don’t you...

Cruise Lake Como

For cliffside peeks at luxe estates and gardens. Try it on our Lake Como, the Italian Riviera & Venice tour.

Roll pasta in Rome

For tucking into a plate of fresh, handmade ravioli. Try it on our Journey through Italy: Milan to the Amalfi Coast tour.

Sip limoncello

For a tangy treat from a family-owned lemon farm. Try it on our Naples, Sorrento & Rome tour.

Dig for truffles

Sniff out prized, pungent fungi with a trained hound. Try it on our Food & Wine: Northern Italy & the Italian Riviera tour.

Uncover your Italy travel style

Just like you, Sicily has a personality all its own. Discover hilltop towns like Monreale and Taormina on a tour designed for you to go solo, not alone.

Explore Sicily for Solo Travelers

Winding Venetian canals. Lake Como’s glittering shores. Cinque Terre’s colorful cliffside. Bask in Italy’s waterside wonders on this unforgettable tour.

Explore Lake Como, the Italian Riviera & Venice

It doesn’t get much better than a Tuscan to-do list: Bike along cypress-lined city walls, take a stroll through hilltop towns, and cap each meal off with a glass of Chianti.

Undiscovered Tuscany: Lucca, Siena & Maremma

Step wholeheartedly into the Roman experience and make the Eternal City your home away from home as you mingle with the locals and adopt a cafe for the week.

Explore Rome: The City Experience

What travelers say about our Italy tours

Experiential travel made easy.

You dream it. We’ll take care of every last detail.

We offer 200+ immersive, guided tours around the world. Wherever you choose to go, you’ll enjoy lots of advantages that make traveling with us different.

That’s all it takes to secure a spot on one of our group tours when you sign up for AutoPay . Plus, you can pay in interest-free, monthly installments.

While you’re deciding what to take, we’ll be busy arranging your hotels, meals, tickets, and more tour essentials. That’s what going guided is all about .

Set off on a life-changing, horizon-expanding adventure with peace of mind knowing that we’ve got you covered every step of the way .             

Enjoy Italy—and beyond

If Italy fired up your wanderlust—and we know that feeling—explore tours that complement your sojourn with even more of Europe’s delights.

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Travel tips for Italy trips

One of the best parts about Italy is the diversity within its borders—from the rugged, Alpine beauty of Northern Italy to the laid-back countryside of Tuscany and Umbria, to the cultural capitals of Rome and Florence, to the colorful beaches of the Italian Riviera and the Mediterranean Coast. It’s hard to choose where to go, but, luckily, many of our Italy tour packages cover a few different distinct areas, like Venice, Florence, and Rome, or Florence, Tuscany, and the Italian Riviera.

Our guided tours of Italy span the spectrum, and sometimes it’s best to start with your interests.

• Rome, Florence, or Venice.  If it’s your first time in Italy, you may want to begin with the iconic cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice, where you’ll walk through the Colosseum and other historic sites of the Roman Empire, soak in the art and architecture of the birthplace of the Renaissance, and navigate Venice’s beautiful network of canals.
• Tuscany, Umbria, Northern Italy, or the Italian Riviera. If you’re a foodie, our culinary-themed Italy vacation packages, such as our small-group  Food & Wine: Flavors of Tuscany & Umbria and Food & Wine: Northern Italy & the Italian Riviera  tours, are perfect for you.
• Rome or Pompeii. If you’re a history buff, Italy tours that include Rome or Pompeii are the best place to start.
• Cinque Terre or Amalfi Coast. For those who are all about sunshine and nature, you’ll love itineraries that include Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast.
• Florence, Milan, Siena, Alberobello, or Venice . Art lovers should consider a trip that includes Florence (for the Renaissance masterpieces), Milan and Siena (for their showstopping cathedrals), and Alberobello and Venice (for Alberobello’s traditional stone huts and Venice’s blown glass).

While summer is often the most common time to visit, it’s also the hottest and most crowded, so we recommend taking one of our guided trips to Italy in the off-season. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures for sightseeing. You’ll also enjoy smaller crowds, great prices, and seasonal extras, like spring flowers and fall festivals.

Rural areas in Italy’s beloved wine country are particularly beautiful in the fall, when the year’s harvest occurs, usually in October and November. On one of our escorted tours of Italy during this time, you’ll find some of the country’s most flavorful produce, like truffles, chestnuts, grapes, mushrooms, and eggplant. It’s a wonderful time to shop local markets, visit vineyards, and get a feel for daily life during this flavorful season.

If you’re looking to visit Rome or other parts of Southern Italy, winter is also a great time to plan a trip, when the crowds are much smaller at the main attractions like the Colosseum and the Vatican, and the temperatures are cool yet still comfortable for exploring. If this sounds right for you, check out our  Rome: The City Experience  or  Sicily: A Cultural Journey  tours.

In a country bursting with must-see attractions, it would be easier to ask, “Where not to go?” But here’s a short list of the most compelling places to visit in Italy:

• The Colosseum. This marvel of ancient Roman engineering is over 1,900 years old, and a visit inside its 157-foot walls is like flipping back the pages of history.
• The Pantheon. Remarkable for its size and design, the Pantheon has survived in its original form and is the best-preserved ancient Roman monument.
• The Duomo. This legendary Florence cathedral was the world’s largest when it opened in 1436. The Duomo is famous for its Renaissance masterworks and its massive octagonal dome.
• The Roman Forum. Once the setting of parades, elections, and trials, the ruins of the Forum give a glimpse of everyday life in ancient Rome.
• The Leaning Tower of Pisa. Even though its famous lean began during its construction, this medieval bell tower was considered an engineering marvel of its time.
• St. Mark’s Basilica. One of the world’s most iconic travel destinations, St. Mark’s Basilica was Venice’s religious heart centuries ago. A visit to the basilica and the square it’s located in is an absolute must.
• Vatican City. Steeped in tradition, history, and even a bit of mystery, Vatican City—the seat of the Catholic Church—is the most-visited spot in Rome. The tiny city-state is home to the breathtaking St. Peter’s Basilica, world-renowned museums, manicured gardens, and the Sistine Chapel.
• Pompeii. Experience history preserved. The Roman city of Pompeii was famously covered in ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 A.D. The deep layer of ash preserved structures and objects frozen in time.

In a country with a rich history and culture, there are many popular activities to experience on our trips to Italy. Some of the most popular activities include:

• Visiting historical sites. Italy is home to countless historical sites, such as the Colosseum in Rome, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the ancient city of Pompeii.
• Exploring the countryside. Italy’s beautiful countryside, with rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves, makes it a pleasure to discover.
• Enjoying the food. Famous for its delicious dishes, Italy will please your palate from Piedmont to Sicily. Wine and food tasting excursions on our trips allow you to sample the best of Italian food and wine. Check out our food lover’s guide to Italy for six of the top culinary moments to experience in Italy.
• Visiting museums and galleries. You don’t need to be a history buff or art lover to enjoy the magnificent art and rich history that Italy is steeped in. From the papal treasures of the Vatican Museums to the masterworks of the Uffizi Gallery, Italy is home to some of the world’s most incredible art and historical collections. Check out our art lover’s guide to Italy and our history lover’s guide to Italy .
• Shopping. Italy is also a shopper’s paradise, with everything from designer clothes to handmade souvenirs. If you love luxury brands, specialty boutiques, or great deals from street vendors, you’ll find it all on our tours of Italy.
• Enjoying outdoor activities. No need to spend all your time sightseeing. Outdoor activities, like hiking, cycling, and skiing, are also popular, depending on the season.
• Relaxing on the beach. Italy has long coastlines with beautiful beaches to relax on.

With its millennia-spanning history, mouthwatering regional cuisine, and countless artistic treasures, it’s no wonder Italy consistently ranks at the top of travelers’ wish lists. The country offers so much ancient history and delicious food and is home to countless artistic treasures. Italy offers experiences you can’t have anywhere else. Some activities you can experience on our Italy tours include:

• Taking a gondola ride in Venice
• Visiting Vatican City in Rome
• Watching the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo in Florence
• Exploring the colorful villages of Cinque Terre
• Eating homemade pasta in the tiny village of Noto
• Taking a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Italian dishes
• Staying overnight at an Italian agriturismo
• Hunting for truffles

We recommend you spend at least six days in Italy. While our most popular Italy tours run nine days or more, you can enjoy a shorter trip if you limit your tour to one or two cities in the same region.

Yes. Our Italy trip packages visit some of the country’s most famous wine regions, including Tuscany, Umbria, Campania, Puglia, Sicily, and Piedmont.

If exploring Italian vintages is high on your list of to-dos, learn about our top five Italian wineries to check off your bucket list , then browse our Food & Wine Tours . We offer a number of trips to Italy’s different growing regions.

Italy has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers. However, the weather can vary greatly depending on the region and time of year, so checking the forecast before traveling on any of our Italy tour packages is essential.

Pull up a seat at any table in Italy and you’re guaranteed to be greeted by the same thing: a dish made with equal parts local ingredients and love. In Italy, a homemade meal is synonymous with a warm welcome, and time-honored cooking traditions allow seasonal flavors to shine.

In general, as you travel from north to south, the cuisine and flavors get lighter. In Northern Italy, where there are more pastures and livestock, you’ll find flavorful meats, rich pastas, and bold wines. In Southern Italy, you’ll feel the influence of the Mediterranean in dishes that feature lots of fish, vegetables, citrus, and olives.

Here are some of the best Italian dishes:

• Pizza . Naples, the place to get a classic pie, serves up a pure and simple version with just tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and olive oil.
• Seafood . Liguria, a region better known as the Italian Riviera, is known for all kinds of fresh-from-the-sea specialties, particularly anchovies, mussels, and a mixed seafood stew called ciuppin.
• Pesto . Another favorite from the Italian Riviera, this vibrant sauce is often served on pasta alongside seafood or fresh veggies, like zucchini.
• Tagliatelle Bolognese . Bologna, where recipes have been passed down from generation to generation, is the birthplace of this all-time favorite dish. It features wide noodles topped with a sauce of ground meat.
• Olive oil. When it comes to the places where you’ll find the best olive oil, it’s a toss-up between Tuscany, where you’ll find delicious peppery olive oil, and Puglia, the country’s olive oil capital.
• Arancini . Sicily is the home of these fried rice-and-cheese balls, but you can find them throughout most of Southern Italy, filled with a variety of delicious stuffings.

The euro. For tips on using the euro while on a trip to Italy, check out our blog post about currency exchange .

Italian is the most widely spoken language in Italy. However, English is commonly used in popular areas. That said, knowing some key phrases is always useful. It will help you find your way around and show locals that you’re interested in learning about their culture. Here are some key Italian phrases to know before you go .

To truly experience Italy like a local , keep these things in mind.

• Punctuality . Italians value punctuality, so arriving on time for appointments and meetings is important.
• Greeting people. Greeting people with a handshake or kiss on the cheek is customary.
• Dining out. Eating in Italy is an art form. It’s considered rude to ask for substitutions or not to finish your meal. And when it comes to spaghetti, roll it on a fork. Don’t eat spaghetti with a spoon or use a knife to cut it.  And don’t order an espresso with your meal. Save the coffee until after you’re finished eating.
• Remove your hat . It’s a well-established tradition in Italy to remove your hat when you enter a church. The same goes for entering restaurants and cafes.
• Leave your shorts in your suitcase.  Few Italians wear shorts in the city. Dressing well is important, especially in the cities.

We recommend packing light for your trip to Italy. One suitcase and one carry-on per person is a good guideline to follow; you should feel comfortable managing your baggage at the airport. After you’ve booked one of our Italy tour packages, we’ll give you information about how to prepare for your particular trip and even share a packing list in our mobile app.

• Sun protection. For all our trips, especially during the summer months in Italy, we recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect your face and the back of your neck from the sun.
• Layers. For tours of Italy, we recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• Comfortable walking shoes. Since you’ll be exploring new destinations with local guides, a comfortable pair of walking shoes is essential to have with you. Italy is famous for its fashionable footwear, but it’s also known for its cobblestone streets and steps. So, while you may be tempted to dress as fashionably as the locals, we recommend erring on the side of comfort to save yourself from blisters.
• Dressier attire. You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• Full-coverage layers for religious sites. It is preferable not to visit churches, temples, or other religious sites with bare legs or shoulders, and staff at these sites may deny entrance on this basis.
• A travel adapter.  A plug adapter is one of the most essential things to buy before going to Italy. Italy uses three plug types: C, F, and L. Type C plugs have two round pins, type F have two round pins with clips on the top and bottom, and type L have three round pins in a row. Most hotel rooms have a mixture of type F (used throughout Europe) and L (Italy only), but know that you can use a type F in a type C outlet and type C in a type L outlet (that’s a lot to remember, we know). As long as you have one of these power adapters, you’ll be absolutely fine.
• A small day bag.  Many churches and museums will not allow you to bring in large backpacks for security purposes—you’ll need to check them at the door. However, you can wear a small day bag on your front, like a cross-body travel bag or stylish mini backpack.
• An RFID money belt or wallet.  Italy’s city streets can get busy, and like in any country with many tourists, you’ll want to be wary of pickpockets. Radio-frequency identification (RFID) can protect your credit card info from electronic theft, and a money belt will conceal your cash without ruining your outfit.
• A portable charger.  As you float along Venice’s canals, take in the Renaissance mastery of Florence, or walk along ancient streets in Rome, you’ll snap many  gorgeous photos of Italy . That means you’ll need a phone battery that can keep up. Pack a small portable charger, and you won’t have to worry!
• A reusable water bottle.  This isn’t just one of our  eco-friendly travel essentials . It’ll also save you money. Italy’s tap water is safe to drink, and you can fill your bottle with fresh, cold water at Roman aqueducts built thousands of years ago—so it’s an authentic experience, too. Just try not to ask bar or restaurant staff to refill it for you, as this isn’t common practice in Italy.

France, Switzerland, and Italy Tours

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Imagine the perfect combination of iconic culture, history, nature, and cuisines. Admire expansive Parisian boulevards, the homemade culinary delights of Italy, and the staggering Swiss peaks. Your France, Switzerland, and Italy tour designed alongside Zicasso’s experts will unveil a breathtaking experience to be remembered for life.

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11  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,516

Get a glimpse of Europe’s finest destination on a ten-night tour by train. Explore Parisian lanes, Venetian canals, Swiss mountains, and Vatican art. Then, experience Renaissance Florence, Shakespeare’s Verona, the Louvre, the Colosseum and an Ice Palace. There are so much to discover and so many new experiences as you hop through France, Switzerland, and Italy. Handcrafted to get as much as possible into ten nights, it will be an evocative introduction to the best of Europe.

17  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $6,982

Some of the family highlights on your Italy, France, and Switzerland tour include baking croissants, becoming a Roman gladiator, staying on a Tuscan farm and exploring the Swiss mountains. Start in Tuscany and end in Jungfrau, relaxed places for everyone to come together. Delve into the immersive city experiences with local guides tailoring each day in Rome, Paris and Zurich. Welcome to the beautiful bounty of Europe from the Alps to the River Seine.

10  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,105

Europe is a coveted destination for its well-preserved history, vibrant culture, captivating art, and enchanting cuisine. Your custom tailored tour takes you on an incredible journey through Italy, Switzerland, and France to immerse you in picture perfect panoramas and fairy tale towns. The aroma of Swiss chocolate winds along cobblestone streets as the characters of da Vinci’s Last Supper stare down at you from their position on the wall. The stained glass windows of a 13th-century French Gothic Cathedral glows with ethereal light. Travel across the Alps for a view of the world unlike any you have ever seen.

13  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $5,338

Aromas drift down Roman lanes, vistas extend from alpine lakes and the Renaissance city opens its heart. From Venetian canals to Parisian patisseries, this is the grand tour of Italy, Switzerland and France, a one-way two-week journey that celebrates many of Europe’s grandest icons. Explore with all your senses alive as you embrace the highlights and discover how every piece of old-world Europe is absolutely unique.

Parisian cobbles, Roman churches, Swiss mountains and Venetian canals are all yours to explore, as the list of iconic highlights is endless as you travel across France, Italy and Switzerland. Take in the Colosseum, the art of the Renaissance, the beauty of the French Riviera and Pisa’s Leaning Tower in a perfectly planned whirlwind of a vacation. Handcrafted for those who like to travel fast and pack in the experiences, this 13-day tour celebrates many of Europe’s most famous wonders as you see many places that have shaped history and are some of the most iconic in the world.

14  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $5,749

Romance thrives across Switzerland, France, and Italy. Walk hand in hand along the River Seine, enjoy al fresco dining on a Tuscan piazza, stay at alpine lodges away from the world, and walk through the icons of world history. This romantic tour gives you time and space to be just two, along with an inside insight into the history and culture. From ice caves to cobbled squares this is two weeks of endless highlights. Begin planning your dream France, Switzerland, and Italy tour by connecting with one of our France, Switzerland, and Italy travel specialists.

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Our French River cruises and land-based France tours transport you to a European destination that lives life to the fullest with the cultural panache that defines all things Français... explore colorful Provence, the Loire Valley, ancient abbeys, cobblestoned villages, Bordeaux, Côte du Rhône wine regions, Paris and more.

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Welcome to France

Magnifique... a word that sums up the many cultural delights and panache of France... exploring Paris, the "City of Light" in the evening when it truly comes to life... the poignant memorials at Omaha Beach... a traditional picnic lunch in Gordes, dining as the locals do...and an infusion of ancient abbeys, Loire chateaux, and cobblestone villages that nourish your soul.

Land journeys, from parisian bistros and provençal farms to normandy beaches and loire valley châteaux, treasures await along the yellow roads in france..

Sip wines at private French vineyards with vintners who share secrets of the terroir... try locally produced cider and Calvados on Normandy farms... toast life in Paris, where brasseries, cathedrals and art-filled museums nourish your soul... and so much more. Join us in France on land journeys along the Yellow Roads to Paris, Provence, Normandy, Brittany and the Loire Valley.

• River Cruises

The rivers of France evoke a sense of place around every bend... join us along the Rhône, the Saône and the Seine...

The River Seine bridges images of life past and present in the iconic Parisian sites that line its banks; as it meanders from city to coast, it impresses with scenery immortalized by Monet, van Gogh and their contemporaries. Inland from the Saône in the north all the way south to Provence, the Rhône drinks in timeless landscapes ripe with secrets of the terroir. This and more awaits aboard Tauck's river cruises along the Rhône, Saône and Seine rivers in France.

• Small Ship Cruises

A quarter-century later, our first small ship cruise still sails the Mediterranean to or from the French Riviera...

Beginning or ending in Nice, our "Treasures of the Mediterranean" – Tauck's very first small ship cruise, still sailing a quarter-century later – takes you to explore Provence, Monte-Carlo, Elba, Corsica, Italy's Amalfi Coast, Sicily and Malta.

Tauck Bridges Family Travel

From scavenger hunts in the louvre to a bicycle tour of versailles's gardens, family fun awaits in france....

Stroll into a painting by Claude Monet at Giverny... get hands-on experience with World War II equipment on Normandy's D-Day beaches... walk along the Pont du Gard... meet French cowboys on a ranch in la Camargue, where you'll dig into an authentic Provençal meal... and so much more on our Tauck Bridges trips and river cruises in France – including "Castles & Kings: London to Paris;" "Bon Voyage! France Family River Cruise;" and "Family Fun Along the Seine: Paris to Normandy."

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TAUCKS EVENTS

A Cultural Exploration of France

From Paris, the most romantic city in the world to the importance of gastronomy and fine wine, the delights of France are experienced on many levels, whether it be by land journey, river cruise or small ship.  In Provence... Lyon... Normandy... and along the Seine as you drink in the history, culture, architecture and much more.

Normandy, brittany, paris & the loire valley, savoring france: paris, lyon & provence, cruising the seine, plus paris & london, traveling with tauck, never settle for ordinary.

Travel Experiences that are as memorable as the places...

Leave Your Worries At Home

Tauck takes on all of details of travel – all of the planning, all of the logistics...

One Upfront Price

Get what you pay for and then some; no hidden costs, no options sold...

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Our Tauck Directors are the best in the industry, making every moment of your journey count...

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Call us, or call your travel advisor, to book your preferred departure date today – and explore our beautiful brochures to find your inspiration for your next journey.

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GRAPE TOURS 

DISCOVER THIS GRAPE WORLD!

Premium wine tour operator, in france and in italy.

WHAT'S GRAPE ABOUT US

Grape Tours, established by Pierre & Rebecca Gouttenoire, is a well-established wine tour operator boasting 20 years of expertise. Rebecca, originally from Denmark, discovered her love for wine in Italy, where she and Pierre first crossed paths (during a wine tour!) and where daily excursions explore the vineyards of Tuscany. Meanwhile, Pierre, a seasoned winemaker from Bordeaux, imparted his knowledge, allowing Grape Tours to establish roots in France as well.

We take immense pride in guiding our guests to the finest wineries, always incorporating an educational aspect. Whether embarking on a one-day excursion in Tuscany or Provence, or indulging in a multi-day adventure in another captivating wine region – perfect for true Grapetrotters!

Our hands-on wine tours are personally led by us or by our small team of genuine experts, ensuring a focus on authentic experiences, exceptional wines, and local cuisine. Join us as we unveil the wonders of this Grape World!

Grape things

Tuscany, italy.

From Florence, you can explore a diverse range of small group wine tours, delving into various renowned wine regions of Tuscany. Our Grape Tours office is conveniently situated in downtown Florence, easily accessible from any central hotel or even by car if you happen to be staying elsewhere. Each tour is a delightful combination of exceptional wineries and delectable foods, presented by our knowledgeable Grape wine guides. They go the extra mile to ensure that all our guests not only learn a wealth of information but also have an immensely enjoyable time.

PROVENCE, France

Participate in one of our intimate small group tours departing daily from Nice to the enchanting Provence, celebrated globally for its exquisite rosé wines. As you'll soon realize, the world of rosés holds surprises beyond your imagination, not to mention the captivating whites and reds...

Guiding you through this journey is our Grape expert, providing essential insights into the region as you explore diverse wineries with indulgent tastings. A quintessentially French lunch awaits, featuring regional delicacies paired harmoniously with fine wines.

Cheese & Wine

In 2021, our passion for cheese and wine took an exciting turn as we unveiled Formaggioteca Terroir, a unique shop and bar. Nestled in our beloved neighborhood on the south side of the river Arno, it has become a go-to destination.

Pay us a visit to explore and acquire exceptional artisan cheeses and wines, or indulge in a tasting experience featuring the delightful products we've curated from our travels across Italy and France.

The accolades followed in 2023 when Formaggioteca Terroir was crowned Cheese Bar of the Year at the Italian Cheese Awards.

Food & Wine Retreat

Campo Sasso marks our latest venture and business endeavor. This charming establishment is an old farmhouse situated in the picturesque Chianti region of Tuscany. After undergoing a splendid renovation, it is set to open its doors as a Food and Wine Retreat in 2024.

The farmhouse boasts three ensuite bathrooms, spacious living areas, and a delightful garden enveloped by olive trees, vines, and lush forest.

Additionally, it is from this very region that we source our premium extra virgin olive oil, known as "Olio del Campo," Chianti Classico DOP.

Grapetrotter journeys 2024

Embark on an entirely unconventional journey through the enchanting landscapes of Umbria & Le Marche, where hidden gems of the countryside harbor the production of delectable wines crafted from unique and lesser-known grape varieties.

Immerse yourself fully in the exploration of the grapes, culinary delights, and rich culture that define central Italy.

Based in Alba, we'll embark on two full days exploring the renowned right bank regions of Barolo and Barbaresco. The third day will be devoted to the left bank Roero, offering a diverse selection of wines, from robust reds to mineral-rich whites. Throughout our journey, we'll also savor the delights of delicious local foods.

Come on a journey with Pierre Gouttenoire, a former winemaker in Bordeaux and an exceptional insider in this region. Over a span of three days, you will explore nine remarkable wineries, partake in visits, and savor tastings of various blends, complemented by unforgettable vineyard lunches.

Embark on a Sicilian odyssey from the West to the East, where you'll reside in vineyard resorts and explore numerous wineries, villages, temples, and beyond. This culinary escapade offers a touch of sophistication, providing insights into Sicily's ancient grape varieties and its contemporary winemaking culture.

Grape Wine Club

Enroll in our Wine Club and receive a curated selection of 12 exceptional wines, ensuring you can savor a captivating and delightful wine every month throughout the year. Each wine comes with a detailed description, accompanied by a local recipe perfectly paired to enhance your tasting experience!

Italian Wine Institute

Experience wine education at the Italian Wine Institute in Florence, where you can partake in brief wine classes, enroll in the Italian Wine Scholar program, or engage in short wine tasting sessions tailored for beginners.

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Experience Italy differently. Enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences and uncover local secrets when our friends across the country open their doors to you. Here’s just a sample of the rich experiences you can expect.

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“Uffizi Gallery in Florence is a world class museum with an incredible renaissance art collection. Enjoy a guided tour with a Local Specialist to make the experience more memorable, especially when in front of Botticelli’s stunning ‘Birth of Venus’ painting”

Pino, Travel Director

See Michelangelo's frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel

One of the most important structures of the Catholic faith, the Vatican City’s Sistine Chapel is a must-see on a tour of Italy. Though the chapel walls have witnessed centuries of worship, it’s the renaissance ceiling paintings of Michelangelo that will leave you in awe.

Visit the glamorous Isle of Capri

Enjoy the classic Italian summer in Italy’s picture-perfect Gulf of Naples. Famed for its crystal grottos, dramatic coastlines and endless glamour, our trips to Italy are complete with a day of freedom spent under a striped umbrella, watching sailboats pass by.

Cruise your way through Venice

The charm found in the canals of Venice is nothing short of irresistible. Admire gothic palaces and postcard bridges whilst adrift in a gondola, gaining an understanding of life in a city that floats. Exploring a city by foot will never be the same after a trip to Venice.

Journey to the well-preserved ruins of Pompeii

An unfathomable history lesson is found in the archaeological ruins of Pompeii. Buried and preserved by the ash of a volcano eruption in the year 79, in this Italian town you will discover the progressive life of early Roman times as you walk within the parameters of an open-air time capsule of life on Earth.

Go shopping in Italy's fashion capital Milan

Armani, Gucci, Prada and Versace. These are some of the prestigious fashion brands that call the Italian city of Milan home. In between yearning through boutiques and department stores, stop to sample the city’s delicacies like breaded veal cutlet and ossobuco.

Our top 5 things to do in Italy

It's the moments of quiet stillness that take your breath away on a Trafalgar tour through Italy. Sitting in the calm halls of the Vatican. Floating on the canals of Venice. Standing beside the ruins of Pompeii.

Uffizi Gallery

The Tuscan capital is home to Uffizi Gallery, where the brushworks of art’s true masters are found. Names like Raffaello, Leonardo, and Michelangelo dress Uffizi’s grand pink walls, whilst internal courtyards leading to the Arno River will show you the building’s architectural brilliance.

Vatican Museums

A collection of Christian artwork that spans centuries and stirs the soul is found in Rome’s Vatican Museums. From the intricate ceiling by Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel to the detailed Pope portraits from the 16th century to today, you will be lost for words once inside this blessed museum complex.

Doge's Palace

Home to the leader of Venice from its opening in 1340, Doge’s Palace summarises the sparkle of this city. An opulent example of Venetian Gothic architecture and home to numerous historical works, this museum is a must when you visit Venice.

Best museums in Italy

The epicentre of the Catholic faith and the birthplace of art’s most renowned masters. Our guided tours of Italy will take you to the many museums found here, whether in the Sistine Chapel, by the canals of Venice or in the grand galleries of Tuscany.

The authentic carbonara experience will take place in Rome, covered in salty Pecorino Romano cheese. A simple dish inspiring heart-warming meal times, this pasta will connect you with Italy’s rich culinary customs - an impressive evolution from its supposed heritage as a coal-miner’s meal.

Pollo alla Cacciatora

Literally translating to ‘hunter’ in Italian, cacciatore offers an appreciation for Italy’s meals of days gone by. Typically a preparation of rabbit or chicken, it’s the simmering tomato stew that makes this dish so mouthwatering. Satisfy a genuine hunger and consume with hand-ripped bread.

Italy tours are best served with an oversized slice of tiramisu. Cementing this country's obsession with espresso, this cake of layered biscuits soaked in coffee is the perfect after hours pick-me-up before an evening stroll through the charming streets.

Best food in Italy

A date with Italian food will likely start and end with a slice of pizza. But it’s the menu items that we share with you in between that will take your appreciation to new heights; think cacciatore and Carbonara with a slice of tiramisu in between.

What to pack for Italy

A classic linen outfit

The Italians are famous for their equal parts glamorous and effortless dress sense. Look the part with a few ensembles featuring classic linens in navy and white.

A blank journal

With the wealth of inspiration tucked into every corner of Italy, you might find yourself compelled to write down notes or memories. At the very least to remember the traditional Italian recipes you learn.

With such a large expanse of space to explore, on some days, long journeys are unavoidable. The scenery will provide plenty of visual entertainment, while headphones can be used to listen to some local music or enjoy podcasts about Italian history, culture and politics when you're not enjoying the storytelling from your Travel Director.

A small blanket

When exploring the soul-stirring setting of Tuscany, a picnic may call. Come prepared with a small blanket to cover in wine and cheese.

Under the Tuscan Sun by Frances Mayes

A classic memoir that brought the romance of Tuscany to the world, there’s no better time to read this book than when venturing through the country yourself.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and reusable toiletry bottles.

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France or Italy? Which European country should you travel to?

Or in other words, to say bonjour or ciao? That’s the real question.

It’s hard to compare two of Europe’s most popular countries and when I say hard, I mean it’s pretty much impossible. France and Italy are some of the most visited countries in the world, especially when summer rolls around and all anyone can think about is warm nights spent in front of the Eiffel Tower and drinking Aperol Spritzes.

But if you can only travel to one country, which one should it be? This is a tough question and I’m not entirely sure I can answer it but by comparing the two countries’ cities, cuisine, famous landmarks and coastlines, I should get pretty close.

If I don’t, you can always eenie-meenie-miny-mo it.

France is simply beautiful – there’s no ifs, buts or maybes about it. And its romantic cities play a huge part in that beauty. From the iconic monuments and fascinating museums in Paris to the turquoise waters and famous promenades of Nice, there’s no shortage of cities in France that sparkle just as bright as the Eiffel Tower.

Wander the grand palaces and ancient mansions of Bordeaux before sipping on some of the best red wines in the world at a local café. Learn about Lyon’s rich heritage and devour plate after plate of pate en croute, coq au vin and gratin dauphinois. Watch the fishermen return to the port as the sun goes down in Marseille and get lost in the magic of meandering by the water.

You could put every city in France in a beret and not be disappointed by the one you pick out, they’re all that good.  

There’s no beating around the bush, Italy is full of enchanting cities. And each one is guaranteed to be more captivating than the last. Whether you’re searching for museums to get lost in, cobblestoned streets to wander down or Renaissance culture to learn about, there’s an Italian city for everyone.

Rome is a one-stop-shop for all things ancient Roman architecture and the interesting history you probably learnt about in high school. Venice boasts fairytale-like canals and subsequent gondola rides. Then there’s Pompeii (not to be confused with the popular 2013 song by British band, Bastille) with its active volcano and archaeological sites.

Not to mention Naples with its colourful markets and ‘birthplace of pizza’ title, Pisa with its iconic landmark and plethora of medieval palaces and Bari with its charming old town and Basilica di San Nicola (the resting place of St Nicholas aka Santa Claus). Should I keep going?

It’s pretty impossible not to love French food. There’s the pain au chocolat (chocolate croissant) with its flaky pastry and chocolate-y centre, the quiche Lorraine with its crispy shortcrust dough base and creamy mixture of egg and bacon and the classic steak frites; a rib-eye cut of prime beef garnished with bearnaise sauce and served with a healthy helping of French fries.

In fact, French cuisine is so beloved everywhere that it was added to UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritages in 2010 and has influenced the cuisines of other countries and regions. Like, while beignets may have made their home in Café Du Monde in New Orleans, these deep-fried powdered squares originated in France. And let’s not forget the wedges of camembert, brie and Roquefort that grace cheese boards the world over.

I rest my case.

It’s hard to compare Italian food with French food because they’re so different and just as delicious as each other. But I’ll give it my best shot…of grappa.

Arguably one of the world’s most popular cuisines, Italian food is made with fresh, local ingredients usually straight from a recipe that’s been passed down through the generations. It’s also characterised by its generous portions and family-style feel, so don’t be surprised if you can feel the love oozing out of your lasagne.

Whether you’re excited to snack on some antipasto, wolf down a bowl of spaghetti bolognese, tuck into a Margherita pizza or treat your tastebuds to a pistachio gelato, you’ll never go to bed hungry when you’re travelling around Italy.

Famous landmarks

You might be thinking “does France have any other famous landmarks than those in Paris?” And that’d be a valid question. But while Paris boasts a lot of France’s iconic monuments (the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe and the Palace of Versailles just to name a few), there are a few other French cities throwing their own landmark into the ‘famous’ ring.

Take Normandy and its Mont-Saint-Michel for example. Perched on a rock and sometimes surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean (depending on tidal conditions), this magnificent abbey was first built in the 11th century before being partially rebuilt in the 13th century after several violent disputes. It now sits proudly overlooking the city and welcomes thousands of tourists each year who admire its detailed gothic architecture and ancient ramparts.

There’s also the Pont du Gard bridge in Nimes (a region in Provence), the Basilique de Notre-Dame de la Gard in Marseille and the Cathedrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg in – you guessed it – Strasbourg, in case you thought we’d forgotten.

While France only has super recognisable landmarks in its capital city, Italy has them all over the place. There’s the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish steps. And St Peter’s Basilica. And the Pantheon. And the Roman Forum. And the Vittoriano. And that’s just in Rome.  

Milan also comes in hot with the Duomo di Milan (Milan cathedral). Pisa’s up next with its leaning tower. Venice isn’t to be outdone with the Doges Palace. And then there’s the Ponte Vecchio bridge in Florence where jewellers and artisan crafters set up shop hoping to convince a tourist or two that they’re in desperate need of souvenirs (most of them are).

The point is, wherever you go you’ll be greeted with stunning architecture, fascinating history and some serious photo ops perfect for uploading to the ‘gram.  

We all know this category is the only one any of us really cares about when those first few rainy June days in Australia start to feel like booking a one-way ticket to a European summer. And luckily for us, France has one of the best coastlines to forget those winter blues.

From the crisp white sand of Argeles Plage near the Spanish border all the way to the glitzy, sun-soaked city of Nice, the French Riviera boasts around 4,800 km of spectacular beach for you to lounge on.

Some of our favourite must-stop-ats include St Tropez with its rich holiday-makers and glittering waters, Biarritz with its postcard-pretty scenery and surf waves and Marseille with its historic neighbourhoods and iconic landmarks.

Italy sees millions of sun-hungry travellers flock to its 7,900 km pebbly coastline each year in search of a great tan, traditional food, photos you can turn into a Tiktok highlight reel and a summer romance (or is that just me?). And it’s no surprise when the country promises wanderlusty destinations such as the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre and the island of Sicily.

But those hot spots can get extremely busy (and pretty expensive) so opting for a slightly less well-known beach city is often the way to go if you’re trying to keep the budget down. Like La Spezia for example. Known as the gateway to Cinque Terre, this not-as-visited but still just as beautiful port town is home to a lively culture, fascinating museums and some pretty incredible water you simply have to dive into.

However, while Italy’s beaches are beautiful, I think France wins this category – I’d take sand over pebbles any day of the week (and so would you).

The verdict

We’ve arrived at my most dreaded part of the blog. Now I have to decide between France and Italy…or do I? If we break it down, I think Italy wins the city category. You simply can’t go past a country that has Rome, Venice, Naples and Milan. But when it comes to coastlines, I think France has got the category in its baguette-toting bag.

As for the others? I’m not even going to try to compare a chocolate souffle with tiramisu. Or the Eiffel Tower with the Trevi Fountain. So, this one’s too tough to call – it’s a draw.

But, if you’re indecisive like me, why not combine the two countries for the ultimate trip of a lifetime on our Barcelona to Rome adventure that stops in Provence and Nice along the way? Sounds like a win/win/win to me. Either that, or you could just plan another European jaunt for the year after. 

Kate Gazzard

When I was 11, my parents asked me whether I wanted a pool for the house or a trip to Fiji. I chose Fiji, and I've made travelling as much as I can a priority ever since.

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The best hidden gems to visit in summer tourist hot spots, from someone who's been to every European country

• Lee Abbamonte is a banker turned travel blogger who has visited every country in Europe.  
• He calls Spain, Italy, France, and Greece Europe's "Big Four" because of how popular they are.
• If you're visiting one of the "Big Four," here are Abbamonte's off-the-beaten-path tips. 

Traveling to Europe this summer? If so, we'll take a wild guess that you're visiting either Spain, Italy, France, or Greece.

These countries, nearly all of which are in the southern or Mediterranean regions, are what travel blogger Lee Abbamonte dubs Europe's "Big Four" because of their popularity among American tourists .

Abbamonte, 45, knows a thing or two about travel. He's not only visited every state in the US but every country in the world, as well as the North and South Poles.

Across the pond, Abbamonte prefers exploring underrated European countries , but he gets why people gravitate to the "Big Four."

"If you don't like it, you're the problem," he said. "They're all good."

Still, he's a fan of venturing off the beaten path.

Here, Abbamonte shares a few alternatives to popular tourist hot spots that anyone visiting Spain, Italy, France, and Greece should check out.

In Spain, forget Barcelona or Madrid and explore the cliffside city of Ronda

"Everyone knows Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Ibiza, Majorca," Abbamonte said. But not many Americans are familiar with the historic city of Ronda, perched atop a deep rocky gorge covered in lush greenery in the Andalucia region.

"If you're in Marbella, or if you're in Sevilla or Gibraltar, you can go out there and check out this awesome little town," Abbamonte said.

He also can't speak highly enough of northern Spain. One highlight is the seaside town of A Coruña, which is close to the Camino de Santiago, a network of pilgrimage routes leading to a holy site in the city of Santiago de Compostela.

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"I've done a lot of road trips around the north of Spain," Abbamonte said. "It's just an awesome little slice of Europe that nobody ever goes to."

If you're planning to island-hop in Greece, Abbamonte has recommendations that aren't Mykonos or Santorini

Mykonos and Santorini are two of the most well-known islands in Greece. Naturally, they're also two of the most overcrowded.

People familiar with Greece, like Abbamonte, often advise against visiting Mykonos and Santorini in favor of smaller islands that are quieter but just as beautiful, such as Aegina, Poros, and Hydra.

Abbamonte said Hydra, in particular, is worth seeing.

"There are no cars, and it's just goats and donkeys and walking. It's a very cool place to go."

On the mainland, he'd also advise stopping by Meteora in Thessaly, known for its "otherworldly" monasteries built atop towering rock formations.

In Italy, there are places just as beautiful as Lake Como and Florence that are far less crowded

According to Abbamonte, "With Italy, you can just throw a dart at a map, and you're in the coolest place you've ever been to."

Even so, some of Abbamonte's favorite spots in Italy don't get the love he believes they deserve. In the region of Tuscany for example, he says people tend to prioritize Florence, Pisa, or Siena.

All three are definitely worth seeing at least once, Abbamonte said, but he'd also recommend exploring smaller villages nestled between Tuscany's rolling hills, such as San Gimignano, Montalcino, and Montepulciano — all known for their endless vineyards and wines.

"Those are actually really awesome little villages and well worth checking out," he said.

Up in the north, Abbamonte said he'd skip Lake Como for any of the other Italian lakes close to the Dolomite mountains.

"It's my favorite place to road trip, probably, in all of Europe," he said.

Vacation like a local in France and visit Biarritz instead of Paris or Nice

Abbamonte cited Paris and Nice as examples of some of France's best-known vacation spots.

However, he said they are mostly hot spots for tourists rather than French locals, who tend to vacation in places "completely overlooked" by outsiders.

One of his favorites is Biarritz, a seaside hub known for its surfing culture in the Basque region of France. It's north of San Sebastian, a coastal Spanish city popular with tourists that is about a half-hour drive from the French border.

"Everyone knows San Sebastian now. Not a lot of people know Biarritz except for French people," he said. "But that's why I like it because it has a real, local kind of old money, Grace Kelly feel."

Other spots in France that he recommends checking out are the medieval town of Saint Paul De Vence on the French Riviera , beloved by generations of artists and poets, and the riverside city of Avignon in the southeast, one of his "favorite towns in all of Europe."

Correction: June 4, 2024 — An earlier version of this story misstated the location of A Coruña. It's in northwestern Spain, not in Spain's Basque region. The story also misstated the location of Monte Carlo, which is in Monaco, not France.

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Here It Comes: Another Hot Summer in Europe

Extreme heat and other weather challenges are in the forecast this summer, and travel advisers, tourists and local officials are getting prepared.

By Ceylan Yeğinsu

Europe, the world’s fastest-warming continent, is headed for another scorching summer, meteorologists warn. And travelers, once again, are heading to the hot spots.

Last year, large parts of southern Europe experienced prolonged periods of extreme heat with temperatures reaching 118 degrees and lasting up to two weeks or more. The sweltering conditions upended vacations throughout the summer season as visitors collapsed from heat exhaustion at crowded tourist sites, and wildfires led to evacuations in Greece, Italy and Spain.

“Our computer models are in good agreement that it’s going to be another unusually hot summer, especially during late July through August,” said Todd Crawford, vice president of meteorology at Atmospheric G2 , a weather and climate intelligence firm based in Manchester, N.H. The company expects the magnitude of the heat to be similar to 2022, the hottest summer ever recorded in Europe, with the most anomalous heat projected in the south, in popular countries for travelers like Greece, Croatia and Italy.

Since 1991, Europe has been warming at twice the global average, and 23 of the 30 most severe heat waves in Europe since 1950 have occurred since 2000, with five in the last three years, according to the World Meteorological Organization. The European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service said several factors contribute to the continent’s vulnerability, including the proportion of European land in the Arctic — the fastest-warming region on earth — and changes in atmospheric circulation.

Yet despite the forecast and increasing trend of excessive summer heat, demand is still high for destinations where temperatures reached 100 degrees or higher in recent summers. Overall, U.S. demand for travel to Europe has increased since last year, according to the travel site Hopper . Rome, Paris and Athens are among the most searched cities out of billions of annual searches for summer vacations on Kayak and Expedia.

“The destinations are being booked again, and what really characterizes people is how quickly they forget and push back negative experiences,” said Stefan Gössling, a professor who researches tourism and climate change at Linnaeus University in Sweden. “People who were caught in life-threatening situations like the wildfires may reconsider where they travel, but for the broader population, we are not yet seeing a big change in decision-making because of the heat.”

Green spaces and heat officers: Cities adapt

As the summer approaches, popular destinations that were hit hard last year are working on protocols to make residents and tourists safe and more comfortable. In 2021, Athens became the first European city to appoint a chief heat officer to oversee those efforts. One of the first steps was to categorize heat waves by severity, like hurricanes, as an early warning system for the potential impact on human health. It is also naming heat waves to emphasize their potential risks.

“Heat is a silent killer and projections for the coming years show that it will only get worse, so we are redesigning our city and making changes to adapt,” said Elissavet Bargianni, the chief heat officer for Athens. Beyond raising awareness, the city plans to implement additional measures, which include increasing the number of green spaces and creating cool public areas.

For visitors planning to visit Athens this summer, Ms. Bargianni advises using the Extrema Global app that calculates the coolest route for getting from point A to point B according to the current temperature and density of the trees. The city already has several air-conditioned cooling centers that are free.

During last July’s heat wave, the Acropolis was forced to close between midday and the early evening to protect visitors after some of them collapsed from the heat. The ministry of culture could make the same decision this year, Ms. Bargianni said, if the heat is severe.

Heat and tours: Travel advisers get creative

Travel advisers are also factoring heat into flexible itineraries. In cities like Rome, Barcelona, Paris and Athens, they are scheduling sightseeing in the cooler morning and evening hours, and arranging air-conditioned transportation.

“We tend to do activities and tours in the morning, then stop for lunch, and in the mid- to late afternoon you either go back to the hotel to sit by the pool or go to the beach,” said Gary Portuesi, a co-managing partner at Authentic Explorations, a New York-based travel company that specializes in Europe.

If clients insist on taking midday tours, the company will work with local partners to make the experience as comfortable as possible. “If there is a six-hour tour, for example, they will cut it down to four and take them to an air-conditioned gelateria for a break,” Mr. Portuesi said.

It is not only the heat that travel advisers have had to grapple with, but also other unpredictable weather events. Last summer, while some parts of the continent were hot and dry, others were cold and wet. “There was a period during the summer peak when it was hotter in the Dolomites than it was in Sicily,” said Jennifer Schwartz, the Italy-based partner of Authentic Explorations. “The most important aspect of our job is to set expectations about the variables and guide people instead of saying it’s too hot, don’t come.”

Heat insurance?

To help travelers book with more confidence, Sensible Weather, a Los Angeles-based start-up that provides a weather guarantee for vacations and outdoor experiences, has recently added high heat protection to its coverage. When booking through a Sensible partner, travelers will be able to add daily protection and if the temperature exceeds a threshold — usually set between 90 and 100 degrees — they can claim reimbursement. Currently, the insurance is only available in the United States, but, the company said, will gradually be rolled out in Europe and elsewhere.

“The goal of the company is to cover everything that can ruin a trip, and usually it’s rain, but temperature is number two,” said Nick Cavanaugh, the company’s founder who was developing the product while caught in a heat wave in Barcelona last year.

Customers do not need to cancel their trip in order to be reimbursed. Those on package tours are reimbursed for the average daily rate of their entire trip for each day that surpassed the heat threshold. “Our customers can still go on their vacations, but if it’s too hot for some hours of the day and unpleasant to go outside, you can hang out in the air-conditioning and we will reimburse you,” Mr. Cavanaugh said.

Heading to cooler climes

Some travelers who were caught in Europe’s heat waves last summer are seeking cooler destinations this summer in places like Norway, Slovenia, Switzerland, Sweden and Finland. Flight searches for Tromsø, Norway, for example, have increased by 85 percent over 2023, according to Kayak.

Joanna Walker, a 43-year-old recruiter from Boston, was caught in a blistering heat wave with her family in Italy last July and vowed never to return during the summer. She said she had been advised to travel during the shoulder season, but couldn’t because her children were in school.

“We couldn’t even cool off in the pool because there was no shade and the water was hot,” Ms. Walker recalled. “We wanted to see the sights in Florence and have long lunches in the piazzas, but instead we were stuck in our overpriced villas under the air-conditioning.”

This year her family has booked a tour of Norway’s fjords in July, where temperatures linger in the high 60s. “It’s going to be a different vibe to Italy for sure, lots of nature and not as much history, but at least it will be cool enough to experience something.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter for The Times who frequently writes about the cruise industry and Europe, where she is based. More about Ceylan Yeğinsu

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Biden travels to Europe to commemorate the defeat of dictators

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden leaves the campaign trail this week and flies to France for the 80th anniversary of D-Day, where he’ll give speeches touting American alliances that beat back dictatorships bent on world conquest.

Biden is in a long string of presidents who have delivered that sort of message over the years as they built and sustained a Western bloc rooted in free markets, democratic governance and individual freedoms.

As yet unknown is whether he'll be the last.

The race between Biden and Republican Donald Trump is a toss-up at this stage, and if Trump returns to power, there are no assurances he would keep the basic pillars of the post-World War II order intact.

As president, Trump considered pulling out of the NATO alliance , which has been a bulwark against Russian aggression since the depths of the Cold War, according to his former national security adviser John Bolton. A senior Trump White House official said in an interview that Trump came within a "wisp" of dropping out of NATO at a summit meeting in Brussels in 2018.

More recently, Trump said he would let Russia to do " whatever the hell they want " to European countries that didn’t spend enough on military defense.

The trip is a chance for Biden to draw policy distinctions with his opponent while also demonstrating to skeptical voters that, at 81, he retains the stamina and acuity to negotiate with his counterparts, some of whom are decades younger.

His speeches will inevitably offer an implicit rebuke of the “America First” approach that Trump championed in office.

“This is a very important opportunity for President Biden to reaffirm our NATO alliance and emphasize that the world is really on the cusp of a turning point,” said Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., a member of the Foreign Relations Committee. “We are living through the middle of the fight for democracy and freedom over authoritarianism.”

Biden will speak in Normandy on Thursday, the anniversary of the June 6, 1944, beach landings that presaged the liberation of Europe and the defeat of the Nazis.

He’ll speak again Friday at Pointe du Hoc, where U.S. Army Rangers scaled sheer cliffs to take out German guns and gain a toehold on France’s northern coast. A focus of Biden’s remarks will be the defense of “freedom and democracy,” according to the White House.

There is a certain political symmetry to the speech. In 1984, President Ronald Reagan also spoke at Pointe du Hoc while he was running for re-election. He gave a memorable address that built to the rhetorical crescendo: “These are the boys of Pointe du Hoc.”

Reagan went on to win re-election in a landslide over Democrat Walter Mondale.

“Biden will probably try to hit those same notes that unify everybody,” said James Melville, a former U.S. ambassador to Estonia who spent 34 years working for the State Department. “I’m sure the political folks are looking at that [Reagan’s speech] and thinking how do they steal some of that magic.”

After meetings in Paris on Saturday with French President Emmanuel Macron, Biden is scheduled to return home. Days later he’ll leave again for southern Italy, where he will attend a Group of Seven summit of the world’s most advanced economies.

Biden will be in friendly company in his back-to-back European journeys. He has forged respectful ties with many of his foreign counterparts over a 50-year-career in public office honing his diplomatic skills.

By contrast, Trump’s overseas appearances were more fraught, sometimes culminating in feuds with allies and bonding moments with authoritarian rulers.

After he said he wouldn't sign a joint statement on common values with other G7 nations in 2018, Trump voiced displeasure with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, tweeting that a news conference he had given was " very dishonest & weak ."

“He got into spats with the Canadians,” Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, said in an interview. “The Canadians are the nicest people in the world! How do you make the Canadians mad?”

Leaders consider hard national interests when they conduct foreign policy, and whether they prefer Trump or Biden on a personal level, they grasp that come Jan. 20, they may dealing with one or the other.

The uncertainty surrounding the presidential race is the backdrop for Biden’s meetings with officials who will be watching for clues as to how the election might go.

Keith Kellogg, a senior national security official in the Trump White House, noted that in the run-up to the election, various foreign officials have come to see Trump. Among them have been Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and former British prime minister David Cameron, who now is the country’s top diplomat.

“What you’re going to see is European leaders hedging their bets,” Kellogg said in an interview. “You have former presidents and prime ministers talking to President Trump. They’re wondering what it is going to happen in the election and where they’re going to go.”

Asked whether Trump would withdraw from NATO in a new term, Kellogg said, “I don’t expect him to do something like that,” adding that Trump “does expect them to live up to what they have promised to do.”

Emphasizing that he wasn’t speaking for Trump, Kellogg suggested an alternative arrangement in which the U.S. might agree to protect NATO countries that contribute at least 2% of their gross domestic product to defense. Under such a "tiered" system, countries that failed to meet the threshold wouldn't be entitled to such protection from the U.S., said Kellogg, who is seen as potential defense secretary in a Trump administration.

Nothing enhances a president's prestige like a foreign trip. He arrives in his magnificent blue-and-white plane. Often he is greeted on the tarmac by bands, performers and smiling counterparts grateful to see the commander in chief of a global superpower.

It makes for compelling imagery in an election season, but much can go wrong. If Biden trips at any point, if he slurs his speech or —exhausted by the time change — if he appears feeble or uncertain, he would rekindle doubts about whether he's up to the job.

Whatever President George H.W. Bush might have accomplished during a visit to Japan in 1992 — the year he lost re-election — the takeaway for most Americans was that, ailing, he vomited at a dinner hosted by the prime minister.

William Cohen is a former Republican senator from Maine and defense secretary in President Bill Clinton's administration. He is a friend of Biden's who plans to vote for him and do what he can to help him win in November.

During the coming trip, Cohen said, Biden "has the burden of persuading them [world leaders] that he can carry the vote here. He has to present himself as a more vigorous, dynamic person than he has to date.

"The real issue for them [other leaders] is can he persuade the American people that it's important for him to win," Cohen continued in an interview. "And if he can't persuade the American people, then they're going to take their bets and put them elsewhere."

Peter Nicholas is a senior national political reporter for NBC News.

Watch: Moment British paratroopers have passports checked after D-Day drop in France

Soldiers landing in Normandy for 80th anniversary commemorations produce travel documents at temporary customs check

British paratroopers who dropped into Normandy ahead of D-Day commemorations were met by French border officials.

On Wednesday, hundreds of soldiers jumped into the same rural drop zone used on D-Day 80 years ago .

Footage shows soldiers wearing camouflage combat gear walking towards a temporary customs check and producing their travel documents.

French security officials standing behind a wooden desk with two laptops on top then checked their passports.

Ten more members of the Paratrooper regiment could be seen on the horizon, with their ‘chutes deployed, gradually dropping to the ground.

Brigadier Mark Berry, the commander of 16 Air Assault Brigade, told The Sun: “It is something we haven’t experienced before. But given the royal welcome we have had from every other feature, it seems like a very small price to pay for coming to France.”

Jonathan Monti, a French immigration official, told The Sun: “We are doing immigration control, and we are not supposed to do it in a field. But for this special event, for the 80th anniversary, we are welcoming the UK soldiers.”

US troops did not face similar checks as they took off from France, and Belgian troops bypassed checks because they are EU citizens .

Brig Berry paid tribute to the 23,000 airborne troops from Britain, America, the Commonwealth and Canada who parachuted behind enemy lines in the early hours of June 6 1944.

As part of Operation Tonga, the troops were sent to destroy a gun battery and secure control of four key bridges. They dropped into France hours before the beach landings commenced.

Brig Berry added: “The soldiers 80 years ago were jumping at night with considerably less sophisticated equipment, into enemy-held territory. Today I know that I won’t meet an enemy force that 80 years ago was presenting an existential threat to our nation.”

A fifth of the troops in Operation Tonga were wounded and 821 died, with Brig Berry saying it was vital to remember their sacrifice .

He added: “It is crucial, that as the last of these individuals who actually served in D-Day are beginning to move on from this Earth, to remember what they achieved here.”

As commander of 16 Air Assault Brigade, the UK’s global response force, Brig Berry was the first to jump from the Royal Air Force A400M transport plane on Wednesday.

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