leisure tours italy

Emergency Banner Component

Timeless treasures of a legendary land await you on our Italy tours.... from the sun-kissed hill towns of Tuscany to the stunning Amalfi Coast and beyond.

• ITINERARIES

Welcome to Italy

To experience Italy with us is to get as up close as possible to the monuments, masterpieces and marvelous food found throughout these irresistible lands. Venice, Florence and Rome offer a wonderful introduction. From there it's onto the culture found in the hill towns, immersion among the lemony landscapes, and experiencing coastal life along the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.

Land journeys, timeless treasures and unforgettable experiences await you along italy's yellow roads.

Tauck's land journeys along Italy's Yellow Roads take you to experience the awe-inspiring views of the Amalfi Coast from on high… the magic of the seaside villages of Cinque Terre… Tuscan vineyards aflow with the bounty of the vine… Pugliese farms lush with cheese and olives… Umbrian hilltop hamlets crowned with frescoed basilicas… the ruins of great ancient civilizations… towns frozen in time… and great cities touched by the Renaissance – Rome, Venice, Florence, Milan, Bologna, Naples – whose art, architecture and culture honor their glorious past, while looking to the future.

See for yourself what Small Ship Cruising is all about

Tauck bridges family travel, so much to discover... and so many ways to explore with your family... on tauck bridges family adventures in italy.

Experiencing the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel after-hours, without the crowds… discovering Renaissance art and pizza-making in Florence... dinner aboard a pirate ship in Venice... discovering the Amalfi Coast… exploring the underground worlds of Roman catacombs and Orvieto's tunnels... visiting Pompeii's ruins, Pisa's Leaning Tower and Rome's Colosseum… going to "gladiator school"… touring Capri by convertible car… truffle-hunting in the Umbrian hills. Just a taste of what fun awaits your family with Tauck Bridges in Italy… on "Italia Bella: Rome to Venice"; "The Sweet Life: Rome & Sorrento"; and "Grand European Family Holiday."

• River Cruises

Experience the joys of a Tauck river cruise with visits to Milan and Lake Como aboard our "Rhine Enchantment, Amsterdam to Milan"

A three-night land stay at a historic landmark hotel in Italy's fashion capital of Milan and visits to Lake Como, Isola Comacina and Bellagio highlight our 11-day "Rhine Enchantment, Amsterdam to Milan"… exploring five countries and featuring a seven-night Rhine River cruise between the Netherlands and Switzerland...

Journey Collection

Experience Italy

Search Again

{{ title }}

{{shortDescription}}

{{longDescription}}

{{priceFrom}}

From Price, Per Person

Price shown is the lowest price per person, double, on most journeys.

No Tours Match Your Room Configuration

Itinerary Related Content

Take a look below for other tours

Please enter a valid search term

No results found for “ ”.

Make sure your words are spelled correctly or use less or different words.

We can't find any itineraries that match your departure date. Try broadening your search by choosing a different year or month.

The keyword's results do not contain the selected date. Please reset the date filter or choose a different date.

Guest Favorites in Italy

In Sicily as you uncover its multicultural heritage... in Northern Italy as you travel along Tauck's Yellow Roads through the Italian Lakes region... on a one-week trip where all roads lead to Rome... and as you share the splendors of Italy together with family... you'll embrace this country in your own unique way with many special moments and discoveries shared along the way. 

Italia bella: rome to venice, bellissima northern italy, a week in... venice, florence & rome, traveling with tauck, never settle for ordinary.

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

One Upfront Price

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

Leave Your Worries At Home

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

Travel In Good Company

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

Book Today... And Travel Dreams Begin

Discover The World

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.

• Destinations
• Antarctica & the Arctic
• Australia & New Zealand
• Israel & Jordan
• Latin America
• United States
• Tours & Cruises
• Exclusive Partnership
• Family Journeys
• Guest Favorites
• Small Groups
• Small Ship Cruises
• Awards and Accolades
• Our History
• Tauck Impact
• The Tauck Difference
• The Taucker Blog
• About Tauck
• Media Center
• Tutorial Video
• Agent Connect
• Register Your Agency
• General Information
• Group Bookings
• Newsletter Sign Up
• Order an eGift Card
• Request a Brochure
• Tauck Forums
• Travel and Health
• Travel Protection
• Travel Updates

Sign Up to Subscribe to Our Emails

Wonders of Ancient Pompeii Tour

Enjoy a  Private   Guided   Tour  of  Ancient Pompeii,  the incredible Roman City buried by  Mount Vesuvius.  This private walking tour will let you discover the Excavations of Pompeii ruins at your pace.

• Personal Experience with  expert certified Tour Guide
• See Pompeii Forum,  public baths, taverns, shops, theatres
• Learn about the eruption of Mount Vesuvius  and the daily life of the inhabitants of Pompeii
• Marvel at the fabulously preserved  frescoes and   mosaics  in the private homes and in the small museum

Private licensed tour guide.

Admission fees to the archaeological site.

Pompeii Express skip-the-line tickets which allows to visit areas within the city walls. Pompeii 4kids option.

Meeting place

Café Hortus Pompeii, Piazza Porta Marina Superiore 1, Pompei.

Wheelchair friendly

No. Please ask for our Accessible Pompeii .

Casual with comfortable shoes.

Additional info

The walking tour will be adapted to the group, although this tour requires some endurance , especially in the summertime.

Upon request, we can arrange transport.

The Excavations of Pompeii are too big to be visited entirely in one day. Our guided walking tour aims to visit an example for each typology of building to have an overview of the ancient Pompeii and Roman World at that time. Your private guide will tune to your pace and energy.

Guided Walking Tour

The Pompeii site extends on a surface of approximately 160 acres. To make the best of your time, Leisure Italy offers qualified guided service. 

The following is a suggested itinerary for our private guided walking tour : let us know would there be any special request!

In  Pompeii,  you will first admire the city walls, dating back to the pre-roman Pompeii (4 centuries BC). One of the best-preserved ancient gates is called Porta Marina. It connected Pompeii with its port, with a path for charts and one for people.

Once in town, you will be walking on the  original road made of basalt stone  (volcanic rock), and you will notice on the ground hundreds of little white spots made of travertine used to reflect torchlight (nowadays “cat’s eye” on the driving roads).

Your attention will be captured by big blocks of basalt emerging from the road: they were stepping stones used by pedestrians to avoid getting wet when it rained; differently from other Roman towns, Pompeii didn’t have a complete sewer system because the city was built on top of a lava platform too hard to be worked.

The city center is called  Forum . It hosts all the buildings with a public function: Religion (the Temple of Apollo, the Capitolium and the Temple of the Emperor), Trade (the meat and fish market called Macellum, the textiles market headed by a priestess named Eumachia), Administration (the Basilica) and Politics (Comitii). Other facilities in the Forum were exchange offices, public restrooms and a public scale (tabula mensurae) where to compare and weigh farmer’s products. In the Forum, you will also see a display of the famous human casts.

Close to the Forum were  public Bath-Houses  where both men and women (in different sections), poor and wealthy, free persons and slaves could access daily hygiene. Pompeii had three such complexes in town plus two more right outside town, and they all had the following facilities: a changing room (apodyterium), a tepid room (tepidarium), a hot room (calidarium) and a Gym (Palestra).

You will notice several places fronting the road with large vases built in a masonry counter: this is what the  Romans called popinae, today’s taverns ! These jars were full of food and beverages, and many ancient Pompeians would stop in such places for lunch.

You will recognize some of the  Bakeries of Pompeii , with their ovens and grinding machines: incredible but true, some round carbonized loaves of bread were found during the excavations. These are on exhibit at the Archaeological Museum of Naples, together with more carbonized organics such as almonds, pine cones, figs, dates, etc.

Your visit would be incomplete without the red light district: the  Brothel  (Lupanare) shows an interesting display of roman frescoes featuring several erotic images!

Do not miss the chance to discover Pompeii’s places for public performances: an outdoor Theatre  (for comedy and tragedy), an indoor theatre (Odeion, for mimes and declamation of poetry) and a big Amphitheater (for games like gladiators or beast fights). You shall visit at least one of those places.

After the tour at Pompeii, you could stop for a few minutes for a fresh-squeezed orange juice or to browse the souvenir shops if you wish.

• Cultural / Museum
• First Time Visitor tour
• From Pompeii
• Walking tours

Tour Reviews

Fabrizio gave our family of 2 adults and tween/teen a wonderful tour of Pompeii. My husband said wow, he must have given this tour a million times, but you can hear in his voice that he loves it. We really had a great morning. If we come back, would love to do Amalfi coast tour with him. Fabrizio as a guide is a must have for Pompeii!

Anna was amazing. She knew exactly the best routes to take to get around the city and was extremely knowledgeable. Would highly recommend!!!

Leave a Review

Cancel reply.

You must be logged in to post a comment.

• Imperiale Palace, Portofino
• Sukkot Vacation
• Evermore Orlando Resort, FL
• Imperiale Palace Hotel, Portofino
• Ocean Place Resort, NJ
• PGA National Resort, Palm Beach FL
• Passover FAQs
• Sukkot General Information

Sukkot 2024

Book your sukkot vacation in stunning portofino italy.

Imperiale Palace Resort

5-Star Hotel

Embark on a journey of relaxation, revitalization, and spirituality with Leisure Time Tours, the premier provider of Glatt Kosher vacations for the Jewish community for 65 years.

Enjoy an unforgettable experience

We specialize in crafting unforgettable experiences tailored to unique needs and traditions, providing an oasis of serenity amidst the most breathtaking destinations.

Discover the beauty of our meticulously planned getaways, designed to align with Sukkot.

With Leisure Time Tours’ Sukkot programs, you can indulge in a truly immersive and enriching experience while embracing your faith and connecting with like-minded individuals from around the world.

Please contact us if you have any questions about reservations.

Imperiale Palace Hotel

The five-star Imperiale Palace Hotel is today one of the most outstanding and prestigious hotels in the Ligurian Riviera. It caters to decerning clientele that takes one back to memorable times long gone.

Imperiale Palace Hotel is the ideal getaway for those who seek comfort, elegance and style, a refuge offering high level services in the vicinity of the famous areas such as Portofino, Rapallo, Camogli, Sestri Levante and Genoa.

The five-star Imperiale Palace Hotel is one of the most prestigious hotels in the Ligurian Riviera, offering a blend of elegance, comfort, and style. Originally built in 1889, this historic Belle Époque property boasts a private park and stunning views of Santa Margherita Ligure’s crystal-clear waters.

Indulge your senses with the culinary delights at the Imperiale Palace Hotel, showcasing Italian cuisine using local ingredients and traditional recipes. Expert Kosher chefs craft exquisite dishes celebrating the region’s gastronomic heritage, complemented by a curated selection of exceptional wines from local vineyards.

The Imperiale Palace Hotel offers a range of facilities and activities to enhance your stay. Relax by the outdoor swimming pool, stroll through the hotel’s private gardens, or enjoy the luxurious spa with its range of treatments and therapies. The hotel can also arrange activities such as boat tours, hiking in the surrounding hills, and guided tours of nearby historical sites.

Nestled in the stunning Ligurian Riviera, the Imperiale Palace Hotel offers easy access to the enchanting attractions of Portofino and its surroundings. Discover the vibrant harbor, luxurious boutiques, and charming cafes of Portofino. Venture to nearby Santa Margherita Ligure for its beautiful beaches and historic sites, or explore the picturesque villages of Camogli and Rapallo. Whether indulging in boat tours along the coast, hiking scenic trails, or savoring the local cuisine, the Imperiale Palace Hotel serves as the perfect base for your Italian Riviera adventures.

Come and experience the allure of the Imperiale Palace Hotel, where timeless beauty meets unparalleled hospitality. Allow yourself to be embraced by the magic of Italy and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Immerse Yourself in Tradition

Our team understands the importance of observing Jewish traditions and the desire to celebrate these special moments in the company of fellow travelers who share your beliefs. From our resorts’ warm and inviting ambiance to the Kosher cuisine prepared by our experienced chefs, every aspect of your vacation is thoughtfully curated to honor and enhance your spiritual journey.

Unforgettable Destinations

An incredible Kosher travel vacation should be a fusion of spirituality, relaxation, and adventure. That’s why we have handpicked extraordinary destinations that showcase the world’s natural wonders infused with Jewish heritage. Whether you yearn to explore the ancient ruins of Jerusalem, wander through the vibrant streets of Miami Beach, or soak up the sun on a Mediterranean paradise, Leisure Time Tours has the perfect destination waiting for you.

Impeccable Service

At Leisure Time Tours, we take pride in providing exceptional service to our valued guests. Our detail-oriented team ensures that every aspect of your trip is flawlessly planned and executed. We are committed to delivering unparalleled attention and care from the moment you embark on your journey until you return home.

Excursions and Enrichment

Our vacations go beyond the confines of the resort, offering numerous carefully curated excursions and enrichment activities. Explore historical landmarks, engage in meaningful discussions led by renowned scholars, partake in guided tours, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Jewish culture. These opportunities for connection and growth will leave you with lifelong memories and a deepened understanding of your heritage.

Begin Your Sukkot Vacation with Leisure Time Family’s Sukkot Program

We invite you to embark on your vacation with Leisure Time Tours’ Sukkot programs. Let us take care of all the details while you focus on creating lasting connections, basking in relaxation, and embracing the joy of the Jewish holidays. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or venturing on your first religious vacation, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Begin your extraordinary Sukkot vacation with Leisure Time Tours today. Unleash the power of your spiritual journey and create memories that will last a lifetime with our sukkot program.

Testimonials

Ron & pearl, bobbi and michael.

• Bizarre Travel Stories
• Budget Friendly Travel
• Eco-Friendly Travel
• Packing Tips
• Points + Miles
• Travel Advisory + Alerts
• Travel Trends
• Cocktails + Spirits
• Dishes + Entertainment
• Restaurants
• Best Accessories
• Style + Fashion
• Travel Bags
• Travel Tech
• Animals Travel + Updates
• Celebrity Travel Alerts
• Meditation + Health
• Traveler Job Ideas
• Best Travel Guide
• Saving Tips
• Top Festivals
• Travel + Manners
• Travel Advisors
• Travel Tips + Tricks
• Trip Attractions
• Weather Updates + Places
• Bali Vacation
• Czech Republic
• Denmark Vacation
• UK Vacation
• Ecuador&Galapagos
• Montego Bay
• Turkey Vacation
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Spain&Morocco
• Kenya Tours
• Madagascar Tours
• Mauritius Tours
• Morocco Tours
• Namibia Tours
• Seychelles Tours
• South Africa Tours
• Tanzania Tours
• Zimbabwe Tours
• Antarctica Tours
• Bhutan Tours
• Cambodia Tours
• China Tours
• India Tours
• Japan Tours
• Malaysia Tours
• Myanmar Tours
• Singapore Tours
• SriLanka Tours
• Thailand Tours
• Vietnam Tours
• Albania Tours
• Armenia Tours
• Austria Tours
• Bosnia Tours
• Bulgaria Tours
• Croatia Tours
• CzechRepublic Tours
• Denmark Tours
• England Tours
• France Tours
• Germany Tours
• Greece Tours
• Hungary Tours
• Iceland Tours
• Ireland Tours

Italy Tours

• Latvia Tours
• Montenegro Tours
• Norway Tours
• Poland Tours
• Portugal Tours
• Romania Tours
• Scotland Tours
• Slovenia Tours
• Spain Tours
• Ukraine Tours
• Argentina Tours
• Belize Tours
• Brazil Tours
• Cancun Tours
• Chile Tours
• Colombia Tours
• CostaRica Tours
• Ecuador&Galapagos Tours
• Hawaii Tours
• Los Cabos Tours
• Mexico Tours
• Montego Bay Tours
• Patagonia Tours
• Punta Cana Tours
• Egypt Tours
• Israel Tours
• Jordan Tours
• Turkey Tours
• New York Tours
• Florida Tours
• Australia Tours
• BoraBora Tours
• New Zealand Tours
• Tahiti Tours
• Arizona Tours
• New Mexico Tours
• California Tours
• Nevada Tours
• Washington Tours
• Family Vacation
• Private Tour
• Special Interest
• Adventure Travel
• Cultural Travel
• Last Minutes Hotels
• Last Minutes Vacations
• Last Minutes Cruises
• Last Minutes Flights
• Last Minutes Car Rentals
• Botswana Safaris
• Gorilla Trekking
• Kenya Safaris
• Namibia Safaris
• Rwanda Safaris
• SouthAfrica Safaris
• Tanzania Safaris
• Uganda Safaris
• Zambia Safaris
• Zimbabwe Safaris
• Book flight
• Leisure Jets
• Alaska Cruises Travel
• Best All-Inclusive
• Caribbean Cruises
• Cruises for Family
• Disney Cruises + Destinations
• European Cruises
• River Cruises
• Amusement Park
• Beach Vacation
• Best National Parks
• Culture + Activities
• Fall Vacation + Ideas
• Holiday Tour
• Luxury Travel
• Plan Road Trip
• Romantic Places
• Solo Travel + Tips
• Spring Vacation + Tips
• Summer Vacation + Tips
• Trip Suggestion
• Weekend Getaway
• Winter Vacation + Tips
• Travel Books
• Travel sized Toiletries
• Shoes/Clothing
• Travel Apps
• Music Travel Playlist
• Personal Stylist
• Packing Lists
• Language Learning
• Travel related - Movies/TV shows
• International Airlines
• US Airlines
• Visit Island
• Latest Trends
• Destination Of The Year
• Write Review
• Start Planning

Embark on an exhilarating road trip through Hungary and immerse yourself in the beauty of this captivating country with our luxurious tour packages and itineraries. Hungary, a land of rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, awaits you with open arms. Experience the freedom of the open road as you navigate through charming towns, picturesque countryside, and majestic castles.

Discover the architectural wonders of Budapest, the capital city, as you stroll along the Danube River, marvel at the magnificent Parliament Building, and soak in the healing waters of the thermal baths. Explore the historic town of Eger, known for its medieval castle and famous Bull's Blood wine.

Take a leisurely bike trip through the scenic vineyards of Villány, sampling exquisite wines along the way. Embark on a day trip to the enchanting town of Szentendre, with its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and charming art galleries. Indulge your taste buds with traditional Hungarian cuisine, from hearty goulash and delectable chimney cake to fine wines and sweet Tokaji dessert wine. When it comes to accommodations, Hungary offers a range of luxurious options, from elegant city hotels to opulent spa resorts and boutique countryside retreats.

Enjoy world-class amenities, impeccable service, and stunning views as you relax and rejuvenate after a day of exploration. Our Hungary tour packages are carefully designed to cater to your every need, with thoughtfully crafted itineraries that showcase the best of Hungary's history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you seek a leisurely journey through charming towns and vineyards, a thrilling adventure on two wheels, or a combination of both, our tour packages offer the perfect blend of luxury and excitement.

So, why wait? Book your Hungary tour package today and embark on an extraordinary journey through this enchanting country. Don't miss out on this opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Hungary. Book now and let the beauty of Hungary unfold before your eyes.  

CzechRepublic

Luxury tours, find more luxury tours.

These related tours can be tailored to perfectly suit your unique travel style.

Experience Sicily: Uniquely Curated 5-Day Itinerary

Discover Sicily's treasures with our unique 5-day itinerary, curated to immerse you in the island's history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

3-Days Escorted Rome Tour

Italy is one of the few countries in the world with all of its contours and directions filled with stupendous destinations that can take your heart any day.

Experience The Romance Of Italy With This 8-Day Itinerary

Explore beautiful Italy- the birthplace of the Roman Empire and the Renaissance. Invest in the best times of your life with this 8-day Itinerary.

Explore The Best Of Italy on a 13-Day Private Tour

From the north's lakes and mountains to the south's coastlines. On this sumptuous 13-day luxurious itinerary, you'll see Italy's rise as a tastemaker.

Experience Naples and the Amalfi Coast on a 8-Day Luxury Tour

Experience the beauty of Naples and the Amalfi Coast on this 8-day luxury tour. Indulge in the finest dining and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Visit Major Attractions of Italy in this 7-Days Italy Tours

Unlock the wonders of Italy on our 7-day tour. Immerse yourself in major attractions, from the Colosseum to the Amalfi Coast, and create lasting memories in this captivating destination.

Everything You Should Know About Italy Tour In 2022

Paradise on earth: fall in love with italy.

In addition to the great food and wine, there's no dearth of reasons that make Italy a must-see destination on Europe tours. From the appealing mountains to unique museums and wonderful coastline, every part of it beautiful. Italy makes for one of the tourist destinations which ought to be on the Bucket List of every travel enthusiast. Let us find out why Italy tours make for one of the most sought-after destinations.

Love for Venice!

The extraordinarily romantic vibes that spread all through Venice can make anyone fall in love with this place. The vibrancy, grandeur, peace, and the charm of this place are the aspects that attract people from around the globe. There’s romance in every drop of the air in Italy! The perfectly beautiful views around offer an opportunity to click plenty of pictures. Experienced Italy tour agents will help you see every part of this amazing city.

Hiking through the Cinque Terre

In the last few years, Cinque Terre has become one of the most visited tourist destinations in Italy. Cinque Terre is also called as “five lands” and there are plenty of reasons for this unique name it is called with. This colorfully beautiful town is worth visiting for its amazing location looking as if it dangles through the cliff. For its charismatic scenery, this tourist site has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Deserted Islands

Talk about deserted land and Italy will definitely be one place that will come to anyone’s mind. For those travelers who are looking out to travel to a unique place and discover new things, Sicily’s Pelagie Islands are the right place to target. It offers travelers an opportunity to dive through the turquoise waters, wander around the white-sand beaches and see the lovely fishing towns. One should not miss visiting Lampione, which is a true paradise!

Rome & its Decaying Ruins

Rome is peculiarly beautiful! Unusually, for ancient Rome, disintegrating is a term for fondness. It is the crumbled Rome that makes this place way more enchanting. Rome is particularly the best destination in Italy for those who love this part on a trip. In addition to the crumbled Rome, people can also enjoy here every bit of ultra-modern luxuries. From top-rated restaurants to ultra-modern accommodations with qualitative facilities, the place where Julius Caesar had walked, and museums, there’s no dearth of charm here in Rome. This place is particularly a wonderful location for the history buffs.

Sampling Antipasti

One may have tasted Antipasti somewhere, but it is hard to find the one, which is found in Italy. The antipasti dishes vary throughout different regions of Italy. Also, they prepare it in different ways in different restaurants. This makes out that one can visit through the country trying on different tastes of Antipasti around the country.

Florence City Streets

We have heard about Venice and Rome from most of the travel enthusiasts. But, know that Florence is also one of the most enchanting cities, which finds its place in the list of best cities to travel in Italy. The best thing about Florence is that it can be explored on foot for its smaller size. It's incredible visiting some places like the Galleria dell'Accademia, Ponte Vecchio, plenty of museums, and the Uffizi.

Italy’s 47 World Heritage Sites

Italy has the highest number of UNESCO World Heritage sites in the world and the goes to 47. In fact, there are four Natural World Heritage Sites and 47 cultural World Heritage sites. Some of these sites include the beautiful archeological Pompei areas to Torre Annunziata, Herculaneum, the Dolomites, and the Aeolian Islands. Most Italy tour agents say that at every step of the trip, there's one UNESCO site.

Val d’Orcia Rolling Hills, Tuscany

The most interesting things about a trip to Tuscany is enjoying the green rolling hills sipping on a glass of Chianti. Tuscany is one of the largest areas of Italy that gives a lot of scope to its travelers to explore and discover fresh and interesting. Some places in Tuscany are particularly amazing. On top of the list falls the Val d’Orcia that is beautifully located on top of the Monticchiello, Pienza, and Montalcino hills. Ones get an opportunity to click plenty of pictures in the heavenly land.

Dolomites Adventure

It's not just the rolling hills and the isolates islands that make this place an interesting place to boast off, but there's much more than that here. A snowy mountain, Dolomite is a paradise for adventurers who are hikers, skiers, snowboarders, and climbers. Visiting the Dolomite, located in the southern Alps is a great way of giving a thrill to your adrenaline. These wonderful peaks are sure to make people feel the charisma of nature.

How to find Budget Hotels in Italy?

It is important to save money when traveling! There are plenty of things to be handled and therefore finding budget hotels in Italy is something that will keep you at the safer end. Opting for hotels in Venice, Rome, and Florence would not be a great idea. They may charge as high as €150.

Research is the key! Do some rigorous research on booking platforms, but make sure to call the hotel directly.

Even after seeing something really great or a tremendously positive review, don’t instantly rush into it. Call and talk to the hotel staff and negotiates the rates. If anything could be done.

Another way by which one can save money, in this part of the trip is looking for other options for accommodations and not just sticking to hotels. There are a lot of other accommodation options in Italy.

Most experienced travelers and luxury tour agents suggest that one should choose a lodging space which has a beautiful neighborhood and that gives easy access to the historic piazzas. The hotel should be such that one can walk around and reach to some of the tourist sites.

There are many other options for accommodation other than hotels including B&B, apartments, and much more.

People, Behavior & Customs in Italy

Meeting Etiquette

Upon meeting, Italians meet very enthusiastically. While at the first instance, it will look formal, but gradually they will mix up easily.

Italians will meet even a stranger with a usual handshake with an amazing smile and proper eye contact.

After developing a level of comfort, air-kissing starting from the left side and then to the right cheek is very common. Sometimes they may also end up with a tap on the back.

Italians have developed the habit of judging people on the basis of their first impression. Our luxury Italy tour agents suggest demonstrating proper behavior at the first meeting.

Gift Giving Etiquettes

Those who are opting to gift flowers should make sure that they are not choosing chrysanthemums because they are used during funerals.

Red flowers should also be avoided when it comes to gift-giving. Red flowers are actually considered the symbol of secrecy.

Yellow flowers symbolize jealousy therefore yellow flower gifts should also be avoided.

Also, make sure not to wrap gifts in black and purple colors as they are considered a symbol of mourning and bad luck respectively.

Be Healthy & Safe on Italy Tours!

Italy has always been an enchanting destination for people around the world. It's the countless form of attractions, which attracts people to visit this place. Be it the pilgrims or the art lovers or the nature lovers, there's something for everyone that sweeps them off their feet. But, before planning a trip to Italy or any other corners of the world, take precautions and be healthy & safe. Let's discover how!

Italy is a safe destination for tourists. Since it’s one of the most visited destinations in the world, the Italian Government has made sure to keep a strict check on the safety of the travelers.

There is patrolled by the Italian soldiers at most of the major tourist locations to make sure in case of any mishappening, the public is given all the needed assistance.

Italy is the 34th safest countries in the World for tourists as per data collected by approved companies.

However, there can be cases of pickpockets and other small cases, especially in crowded places. So one should be careful at such places.

In the case of unfortunate events during your Italy travel, you can use Italy emergency services. Italian medical care, as well as the police services, are of a very high standard and any situation is handled very quickly and efficiently.

Anyhow, it is best to be prepared prior to your trip and therefore to make sure to take care of your travel insurance ahead of time. Moreover, to avoid unpleasantly large bills, find out what your medical insurance covers overseas, i.e. which medical services, cases, and medical institutions (specific hospitals, doctors, etc.) you can turn to.

Unique Experiences on Italy Tours

With Italy, the southern European Nation being the home to perfect architecture, art, fashion, Mediterranean coastline, and some of the most mouth-watering cuisine is a must have tourist destinations on every traveler's Bucket-List. For the last many years, its vino, people, and the language have inspired travelers' through the world to visit this part of Italy. This country is particularly a place that is believed to follow a complex set of etiquette and customs. We are listing here some of the unique aspects of the country that makes it one of the must-visit destinations in the world. Read them below...

The Ideal Dinner time in Italy begins at 7:30

Most restaurants in Italy open only after six or seven! People in Italy have the habit of eating their dinner late. Eating outlets and restaurants in Italy take it casually when it comes to the opening and closing time. The owners open and close their outlets as per their convenience. They don’t really take it seriously with the timings. The owners might even switch it off for days for their personal work.

Authentic pizza experience in Italy

There are around 20 regions in Italy and each of these regions use their own specialized techniques to cook something delicious. One can get some best of pizza experience throughout the world. For this one will need to travel to Naples where the Margherita pie is believed to have been invented. There’s a lot to enjoy here in Italy! Bologna is popularly known for its most luscious Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, Lombardy for risotto, Rome for carbonara, and Sicily for cannoli. Food in Italy is something that must be enjoyed by everyone.

Enjoy the Art Scene in Italy

Most travelers might be aware of the charm of wonderful restaurants, ancient ruins, and the shopping areas of Italy, but there is much more to discover. Most Italy travel experts have revealed that missing the artistic scenes of Italy is not really a good idea, be it from the present day or from the Renaissance. There's a lot of art in every part of Italy! One of the artistic flavors of Italy is the 100 art Galleries of the Vatican Houses. Undoubtedly the best of this 100 art Galleries is the painting by Michelangelo, Sistine Chapel ceiling. Apart from this, the gigantic art collection by Magritte and Picasso in Venice, Peggy Guggenheim is another artistic part of Italy that should not be missed.

The Vatican Museums

Italy tours are indeed incomplete without exploring the Vatican Museums! It has a great collection of sculptures, paintings, and other masterpieces & pieces of art that have been collected by popes. The museum is all laden with plenty of monumental pieces that include the Chapel of Beato Angelico, Loggia and the Borgia Apartment, the Sistine Chapel, and the Raphael Rooms. Designed by architect Beltrami, the picture gallery or the Pinacoteca is situated in the building that belongs to 1932. Then, the Ethnological Museum has a wonderful collection of archaeological and artistic objects. Many highly skilled Italy travel agents say that the Vatican museum follows strictly a proper dress code. Know that, it’s not allowed to wear hats, miniskirt, any kind of sleeveless clothing or shorts when traveling here. That means that it’s not allowed to show off knees or shoulders.

Italy People do not like cappuccino after Breakfast

Before taking up the final decision for an exciting Italy vacation, know that this European holiday spot has a variety of customs and thoughts put in food. Italian people have their own rules and traditions when it comes to what food should be eaten at what time. For instance, one can’t drink any coffee drink like a cappuccino after a meal. These drinks are meant to be consumed only during the morning. However, one has the freedom to sit at a restaurant and order anything they want. But, there are more chances that something that is unusual can bring about a flood of lectures on digestion and everything from people.

Italy Metro (73 stations just three Lines)

You ought to get an awesome experience with Italy Metro! The Rome metro supposedly belongs to the 50s. There are just three lines that have been designed to serve 73 stations. Many well-experienced say that opting for metros can save a lot of money on traveling through the different tourist sites in Rome. But, of course, one has to keep in mind a lot of things before starting a train ride. One must keep their eyes on the current news, know that children below 10 will not need a ticket, and the most important thing to note is that after buying tickets, validating it before entering the station is important.

Tipping in Restaurants is not an Idea in Italy

It’s not about tipping in Italy! The staff that serves to the guests are considered a part of the family and are paid a fair amount of salary. One should avoid giving tip the servers might feel offended about that. There are many unusual inclusions in the bill that may be confusing. The most confusing of them is the 'coperto', which is actually the charge for sitting at the table in the restaurant. A 'Servizio' is another charge in restaurants and it will come up in most of the tourist areas. It will be around 10% to 20% of the bill.  

Know these Important things about Italy

Since Italy is a member of the European Union people belonging to the EU member countries will not need a visa. Americans don’t need a visa if they are staying for less than 90 days. For those who are the members of the EU will need to apply for a visa before traveling to Italy.

On January 1st, 1999, the Euro became the official language of the country.

One can easily find ATMs at every corner of the country. And, most shops, restaurants, and hotels accept e-money.

But, a few small villages and small shops, restaurants, and hotels may only accept cash money.

Throughout Italy, it is easy to exchange money. It’s most convenient to exchange American dollars and British pounds. Go to any international Kiosks and you can easily exchange money.

And, for those who have hired experienced Luxury tour agents, it is even easy for them to get help from these experts in exchanging their currencies.

For those who have a passport can also exchange their money with a bank. The facility is available in Italy.

Travelers’ checks are not that fine in Italy. They are not usually accepted and if that happens, the exchange company is going to charge a large commission.

Tipping is not practiced in Italy! Unlike many other countries, it is not necessary to give a tip to the restaurant servers, drivers, or at a bar.

Unlike most countries, Italy offers the perfect opportunity to travel throughout the year. Though it's not bad to visit Italy at any time of the year, however, fall is the best season for traveling. During the fall that is from September to November, hotel charges and airfares are less. Also, during this part of the year, there isn't much of a crowd at popular tourist attractions like the Vatican and Coliseum. Many luxury travel agents suggest relying on the following information before planning an Italy vacation.

Best time Visit Italy in terms of Weather : May - October

Best sightseeing season in Italy: April - June & September - November

Best Honeymoon Season in Italy : May to June & September to October

Best time to Save Money on Italy Tours : March to April & November

Best Season to travel to Rome : April - June & September

• The most perfect time to plan a trip to Italy is fall that is September to October & spring that is between April to June.
• During this time of the year, there's pleasant weather around, less tourist crowd, low prices, and also the temperature is moderate.
• Summers are not really good. The temperature is high, the hotel and other charges are quite high, and it's crowded all through.
• When it comes to sightseeing, April to May & mid-September to mid-October is a perfect time. There's pleasant weather all through and there isn't much of a crowd through the city.
• The best time of the day to visit the very famous tourist attractions of Rome, the Roman Colosseum, is the nighttime. During the day there is a large array of crowds.
• Shopping in Italy is rejuvenating dusting the summer sales as well as during the winter sales.

Leisure.com is an online platform that deals with creating travel plans throughout the world. Looking at the increasing trends of tourism, our handful of creative, highly-skilled, and enthusiastic team decided to design a single platform for fulfilling all travel needs. Leisure then became a reality with its wide array of services to help travelers plan their trip with ease. Our platform has been designed in a way that it's easy to browse through the site and simple to get connected to luxury Italy tour agents.

The team at Leisure has done all the preparations before presenting itself to the travelers. We are aware that exploring the world is one of the things that people enjoy wholeheartedly. That is why we have expanded our wings from Europe tours to Asia tours to Australia tours and much more. On this particular page, we are dedicatedly designing Italy tours for those whose next destination is this part of Europe. Apart from this we also have dedicated itineraries, trips, and information about Germany tours , China tours , Australia tours, and much more. Let's plan an awesome trip and help you create amazing memories.

More Related

More valuable reads from leisure.com:.

Tour the Charming Italian Riviera on this 7-Day Itinerary

Spend The Best Holiday With This 8-Day Itinerary Of Italy

Discover The Art of Italy With This Europe Tour Package

Learn more about leisure plans, 1888-509-1184.

Signup for Exclusive Deals

Exclusive access to private sales, customized specials & more

• Bali & Indonesia Tours
• Bhutan Tours
• Cambodia Tours
• China & Hong Kong Tours
• India Tours
• Japan Tours
• Maldives Tours
• Myanmar Tours
• Nepal Tours
• Singapore Tours
• South Korea Tours
• Sri Lanka Tours
• Taiwan Tours
• Thailand Tours
• Uzbekistan & Central Asia Tours
• Vietnam Tours

EUROPE & UK

• Austria Tours
• Baltic States Tours
• Belgium Tours
• Croatia Tours
• Czech Republic Tours
• Denmark Tours
• England Tours
• Finland Tours
• France Tours
• Georgia Tours
• Germany Tours
• Greece Tours
• Hungary Tours
• Iceland Tours
• Ireland Tours
• Italy Tours
• Malta Tours
• Netherlands Tours
• Norway Tours
• Poland Tours
• Portugal Tours
• Russia Tours
• Scotland Tours
• Slovenia Tours
• Spain Tours
• Sweden Tours
• Switzerland Tours
• Turkey Tours

AFRICA & MIDDLE EAST

• Botswana Tours
• Dubai & Emirates Tours
• Egypt Tours
• Israel Tours
• Jordan Tours
• Kenya Tours
• Lebanon Tours
• Morocco Tours
• Namibia Tours
• Rwanda Tours
• South Africa Tours
• Tanzania Tours

LATIN & SOUTH AMERICA

• Argentina Tours
• Brazil Tours
• Chile Tours
• Colombia Tours
• Ecuador & Galapagos Tours
• Mexico Tours

SOUTH PACIFIC

• Australia Tours
• New Zealand Tours

SPECIAL INTEREST

• Art & Design
• Jewish & Heritage
• Spa & Wellness
• Special Diets
• Celebrations
• Philanthropy
• Experiences

Luxury Italy Tours

Highlights of Italy (10 Days) Venice, Florence & Tuscany, Rome

Classic Italy (12 Days) Venice, Florence, Tuscany, Rome

Italy in a Week (7 Days) Venice, Florence & Tuscany, Rome

Essence of Italy (13 Days) Venice, Florence & Tuscany, Rome, Amalfi Coast & Capri

Romantic Italy (12 Days) Amalfi Coast & Capri, Florence, Tuscany, Rome

Italy in Style (14 Days) Lake Como & Milan, Florence, Tuscany, Rome, Amalfi Coast & Capri

Exclusive Italy (15 Days) Rome, Tuscany, Florence, Venice, Lake Como

Best of the Amalfi Coast & Capri (9 Days) Positano, Capri, Ravello

Family Tour of Italy (13 Days) Rome, Florence & Tuscany, Venice, Lake Como

Luxuries of Northern Italy (11 Days) Venice, Bologna, Milan, Lake Como

Rome in Depth (6 Days)

Venice & Beyond (9 Days) Venice, Milan, Lake Como

Indulgent Tuscany (9 Days) Florence, Tuscan hills, Tuscan coast

Luxuries of Southern Italy (8 Days) Rome, Amalfi Coast with Pompeii, Naples & Capri

Lake Como & Portofino (7 Days) Lake Como & Bellagio, Portofino & Cinque Terre

Food & Wine Tour of Italy (11 Days) Piedmont, Bologna & Emilia-Romagna, Tuscany & Florence

Highlights of Puglia (6 Days) Savelletri di Fasano, Alberobello, Cisternino, Locorotondo, Lecce, Ostuni, Polignano a Mare

Best of Puglia & Amalfi Coast (9 Days) Savelletri di Fasano, Alberobello, Cisternino, Locorotondo, Lecce, Ostuni, Matera, Ravello, Amalfi, Positano, Capri

Puglia in Depth (7 Days) Lecce & Otranto, Savelletri di Fasano with Polignano a Mare, Alberobello, Cisternino and Locorotondo

Jewish Heritage: Italy (12 Days) Venice, Florence, Tuscany, Rome

Garden Tour of Italy (10 Days) Lake Como, Florence & Tuscany, Rome & Tivoli

Italy for Art Lovers (13 Days) Rome, Florence & Assisi, Bologna & Ravenna, Venice & Padua, Milan

Best of Southern Italy & Sicily (17 Days) Rome, Capri, Amalfi Coast, Naples & Pompeii, Palermo with Monreale, Segesta & Erice, Sciacca & Agrigento, Taormina with Syracuse & Mount Etna

Journey Through Italy (20 Days) Lake Como, Florence, Tuscany, Rome, Amalfi Coast, Puglia

Best of Piedmont (5 Days)

Introduction to the Dolomites (4 Days) San Cassiano, Val Badia, Val Gardena, Bolzano

Best of the Dolomites (6 Days) Cortina d’Ampezzo, Tre Cime, Lago di Braies, San Cassiano, Val Badia, Val Gardena, Bolzano

Luxury Sicily Tours

Introduction to Sicily (6 Days) Palermo & Monreale, Agrigento, Taormina & Mount Etna

A Week in Sicily (7 Days) Palermo, Sciacca & Agrigento, Noto & Syracuse, Taormina & Mount Etna

Essence of Sicily (8 Days) Palermo with Monreale, Segesta & Erice, Sciacca & Agrigento, Noto with Ragusa, Modica & Syracuse, Taormina & Mount Etna

Luxuries of Sicily (10 Days) Palermo with Monreale, Segesta & Erice, Sciacca & Agrigento, Taormina with Mount Etna & Syracuse

Highlights of Sicily (11 Days) Palermo with Monreale, Segesta & Erice, Sciacca, Agrigento, Noto with Ragusa, Modica & Syracuse, Taormina & Mount Etna

Journey Through Sicily (12 Days) Palermo with Monreale, Segesta & Erice, Sciacca, Agrigento, Noto with Ragusa, Modica & Syracuse, Taormina & Mount Etna

Design & Gardens Tour of Sicily (8 Days) Palermo & Monreale, Taormina with Noto, Syracuse & Villa Romana del Casale

Culinary Tour of Sicily (9 Days) Palermo with Monreale, Trapani & Marsala, Sciacca & Agrigento, Noto & Modica, Taormina & Mount Etna

Jewish Tour of Sicily (9 Days) Palermo & Monreale, Agrigento & Agira, Noto with Syracuse, Ragusa, Catania & Mount Etna, Taormina & Messina

Active Family Tour of Sicily (11 Days) Palermo with Monreale, Segesta & Erice, Sciacca & Agrigento, Noto with Modica, Ragusa & Syracuse, Taormina & Mount Etna

Multi-Country Tours

Highlights of Italy & Greece (16 Days) Venice, Florence & Tuscany, Rome, Athens, Mykonos, Santorini

Family Tour of London, Paris & Rome (10 Days) London, Paris, Rome

Luxuries of Switzerland & Italy (11 Days) Lausanne, Interlaken, Lucerne, Lake Como

France & Italy: Best of the Riviera (7 Days) Cote d'Azur, Portofino & Cinque Terre

Introduction to Switzerland & Italy (9 Days) Lausanne, Zermatt or Gstaad, Lake Como

Highlights of Sicily & Malta (12 days) Palermo with Monreale & Segesta, Sciacca & Agrigento, Noto & Syracuse, Taormina & Mount Etna, Valletta with Mdina, Rabat & Gozo

Best of Montenegro, Croatia, Slovenia & Venice (17 days) Montenegro, Dubrovnik & Peljesac Peninsula, Split with Hvar, Pakleni Islands & Plitvice Lakes National Park, Ljubljana with Lake Bled & the Julian Alps, Venice

Lake Como & Portofino

(7 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis ) Lake Como, Bellagio, Milan or Lugano, Portofino, Cinque Terre

Begin at beautiful  Lake Como  with a stay at the iconic Villa d’Este. Built in 1568 as a private residence, this neoclassical villa is one of Europe's most acclaimed luxury hotels. While there, enjoy a private boat excursion to Bellagio, one of Lake Como’s most picturesque towns, to explore the beautiful backstreets and exquisite gardens, or visit other historic estates and aristocratic villas around the lake. Also enjoy free time to take advantage of the hotel's extensive leisure facilities, including the resort's legendary pool that floats on the lake, beautiful grounds and gardens, and fine dining options. Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can arrange a memorable lunch on Isola Comacina, the only island in Lake Como, or a private excursion across the border into nearby Switzerland to spend time in charming Lugano or visit designer shopping outlets. 

Next, you will be transferred to  Portofino  for a stay at Hotel Splendido, a glamorous retreat perched high above the village and its harbor. One day, enjoy a private excursion to the  Cinque Terre —five tiny villages clinging to the rocky cliffs of the Mediterranean coast. Browse the villages and enjoy scenic walks along the sea through terraced vineyards and olive groves, citrus trees and Mediterranean scrub. Upon request, a private excursion to Genoa can be arranged. Another day is free for swimming, sailing, shopping, leisurely walks, and superb dining.

Booking Information >

All Artisans of Leisure tours are private and depart daily.

Please Contact Us for more information regarding the above tour, or to begin customizing your own itinerary.

The Artisans of Leisure Style of Travel:

Testimonials

This Italy trip was the trip of a lifetime. The accommodations were wonderful. Your restaurant recommendations were always excellent. We cannot think of anyone but Artisans of Leisure who could have made this trip so marvelous.  ~ D.S., Fort Washington, PA

We had experiences and opportunities throughout Italy that we never would have had if we were traveling independently. Our trip was spectacular. Thank you for your excellent planning and insight, and for selecting such lovely, memorable rooms in each hotel. ~ S.G., New York, NY

Thank you for organizing such a wonderful trip to Italy for our family! The knowledgeable guides saved us from standing in lines and expertly maneuvered us through the cities and museums.   ~ P.R., Laguna Niguel, CA

Read more...

Luxury Hotels in Italy

In the Press

Recommended by:

Departures Conde Nast Traveler The New York Times Wall Street Journal Travel + Leisure Town & Country

Italy On Our Blog

The Best of Italy: An Interview with Ashley Ganz

Exclusive Access: Glassblowing & Incredible Luxury Shopping in Murano

Highlights of Venice: Art, Architecture, Interiors, Wine, Crafts, History & the Lagoon

Must Stay: Villa d’Este, an Iconic Luxury Hotel on Lake Como

Glass, Gold and Wine: Visiting the Dorona Vineyards near Venice

Cypress Trees and Rolling Hills: The Landscapes of Tuscany

The Best of Sicily: Interview

Just Back: Art, Wine, History & Interiors in Florence, Tuscany & Rome

A Memorable Meal at Tar-Tufo Restaurant in Siena

Just Back: Amalfi Coast & Capri, Italy

Traveling with Friends and Family: Luxury Villas at Castiglion del Bosco in Tuscany

Trulli in Alberobello, Puglia

Touring & Climbing the Duomo in Florence

Insider Rome: Palazzo Doria Pamphilj

Italy: The Best of the Dolomites

Iconic Image: Positano

Luxury Tours in Puglia & Matera: Food, History, Luxury & Crafts

Iconic Tuscany

Oplontis: An Undiscovered Archaeological Gem in Southern Italy

The Rich Culinary Heritage of Genoa, Italy

An Interview with the Duchess of Palma di Montechiaro, a Cooking Instructor in Palermo, Sicily

Just Back: Sicily

Read more on our blog...

• Luxury Tours

7 Nights - France and Italy

Cruise Ship : Queen Victoria

Departing : Monday, June 16, 2025 from Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain

Cruise Line : Cunard

OUR PRICES STARTING FROM

AAA Special Offer

Pamper Yourself ROYALLY with up to $900 Onboard Credit, AAA Vacations Best Price Guarantee, and AAA Vacations 24 x 7 Member Care Service!

Sailings Dates

Travel with aaa.

Smart Travel Begins With Fantastic Values From AAA Travel

Let AAA Travel make your dream vacation a reality. Serving as your travel advocate, we provide you peace of mind - before, during, and after your vacation.

Member-only benefits allow you to embark upon your dream vacation at fantastic values.

As one of North America’s largest leisure travel agency networks with over 62 million members, AAA Travel provides complete travel solutions.

Plus, look for AAA Vacations® vacation options: Designed for AAA members, AAA Vacations® offers exciting itineraries with engaging experiences and exclusive values not found anywhere else. AAA Vacations® also offers 24/7 Member Care and a Best Price Guarantee.

* If you make a booking for a qualifying AAA Vacations® cruise or tour vacation, and you find a valid better rate for the exact itinerary within 24 hours of your booking, AAA Vacations® will match the lower rate and send you a $50 AAA Vacations® future travel credit certificate. Certain restrictions apply. Visit AAA.com/AAAVacations for full terms and conditions.

As One of North America’s Largest Leisure Travel Agency

Networks with over 60 million members, AAA Travel provides complete travel solutions.

AAA Verified Reviews for "Queen Victoria" ship ( 2 )

12 Night Norway and Northern Lights Cruise

12 Nights - Queen Victoria - Departed from Southampton

The reservations process was great. When American Airlines changed our flights, the agent was awesome to work with them to tweak the times because the new connection time was too tight for our family. The transfers to get to the ship and back were seamless. Great flights, the shuttle service was on time and accommodating both directions. The ship onboard and offboard process was seamless and easy. We were pleasantly surprised to find flower, candy and champagne waiting in our stateroom. Our niece/travel agent is a gem. The cabin steward and purser staff were very helpful and friendly. The wait staff in the Brittania were subpar compared to other cruise ships. They learned our normal drink order habits but didn't learn our names or act at all friendly. They were very robotic. I think perhaps each waiter had too many tables. The food wasn't very good. Maybe I'm not used to British tastes. But to me it was very bland. They selection wasn't as varied as I've had on other cruises. -The Brittania formal dining was nice and had selections that sounded nice like Beef Wellington, Lamb, Steak, etc. They were ok but not the fabulous food you expect. Even seasoned travelers on "The Queens" said the quality of the food had diminished from previous years. -The Lido buffet general consisted of leftover selections from the night before. You had 2 choices, the buffet line of hot food and salads or the pizza/pasta station. We were amazed that there were long periods of time that the Lido had zero food available. This was especially a problem when you got back from a shore excursion and needed a late lunch. If you missed the window, you had to wait for Tea time food or wait for dinner. No food at all in the gaps. -The Golden Lion had good burgers and fish and chips. It should be larger because people really craved this type food vs the Lido or Brittania dining. -High Tea (extra cost or a certificate) was good and greatly enjoyed. Shipboard activities were geared towards a very gentrified and older crowd. There were many art lectures, history lectures about British subjects, etc. I really expected more lectures about Norway/Vikings/etc. The only one was the intro for each city and what tours were offered. There were also Bingo/Trivia/Bridge games. The one that I did enjoy was a watercolor class on each sea day. The evening entertainment in the theater was low budget singers and dancers. There was one juggler/comedian who was funny and one old guy comedian who told REALLY old jokes. I wish the ship had a covered/heated pool but alas it was outdoors and closed for obvious reasons. The stops in Norway were great. We saw the Northern Lights which the crew would announce if they became visible from the ship. We really liked the Polar Park excursion in Narvik. We were sad that were diverted from Haugesund to Stavanger due to high seas. We missed out on the Viking Village excursion due to the change. (Cunard promptly refunded our payment for the Haugesund excursion) I know, you can't stop the weather. We went to Stavanger instead which has a great history. Cunard quickly posted an alternate set of tours to choose from. Luckily, we booked the Leisure bus tour with waffles and coffee as it was really cold and rainy the day we were there. I didn't fully understand to go ahead and book Tea and Lido alternate dining without the vouchers in hand. Because I waited until we were onboard, we weren't able to do the Lido Alternate dining (Which was the only place they served Norwegian food). We did book the High Tea with Champagne. The AAA bonus stated this was free. We only got 2 vouchers although there were 3 in the cabin so we paid for our daughter to attend. There were only 2 vouchers for the Lido alternate dining also.

12 Night British Isles Cruise

12 Nights - Queen Victoria - Departed from Southampton, England

Ratings and Reviews are the subjective opinion of individual consumers, travel advisors and not the opinion of the American Automobile Association ”AAA” or AAA Clubs. Neither AAA nor AAA Clubs shall be held liable for any damages resulting from display or use of these ratings or reviews.

Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas

Get ideas from the pros.

As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.

Build and Research Your Options

Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.

Book Everything in One Place

From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

This National Park in Naples Was Just Named the Most Photogenic in Italy — Here's How to Visit

Vesuvius National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks in the world.

De Agostini/Getty Images

While we firmly believe that every national park is gorgeous, some are a bit more photogenic than others. That includes Vesuvius National Park in Italy, which was recently named the most Instagrammable national park in the country. 

In June, Amalfi Coast Tours released its list of the most Instagrammable national parks in the nation. To finalize its list, it analyzed the average number of Instagram posts tagged with hashtags for each Italian national park, including the term "#[parkname]nationalpark." After looking at the numbers, Vesuvius came out on top, with an average of 381,785 posts on Instagram across the three common hashtags it searched.

And really, it's easy to see why the park would rank so highly. After all, it does have the unfair advantage of being home to an active volcano. But there's so much more to this park than just the slight threat of Mother Nature's dangerous side. 

At the park, visitors will find endless spaces to explore, including through its 11 curated walking paths that go on for more than 33 miles, which not only allow for fantastic viewing experiences but also explain the terrain along the way via the signage posted along the paths. The paths, the park's website explained, include six circular nature trails, one educational trail, a panoramic path, and an agricultural path so you can choose your own adventure. 

Alfio Giannotti/REDA&CO/Getty Images

Visitors can also dig deeper into the region's history by visiting the nearby Virtual Archaeological Museum of Herculaneum , which offers an interactive path guests can follow to learn more about life before the eruption of 79 C.E. 

Back inside the park, travelers can also count how many different species of flora and fauna they can spot, including 138 bird species and 29 mammals like foxes, weasels, and bats, along with some rather stunning orchids that bloom throughout the spring. 

But perhaps the biggest not-to-miss feature is the Crater of the Vesuvius, which visitors can see by walking the No. 5 nature trail, “Il Gran Cono,” which begins at the Piazzale di Quota 1000 parking area. Tickets to enter the trail are about $10, which must be purchased online before the visit. You may want to book early, as ticketing is limited to 360 guests per hour to ensure both guest safety and prime viewing experiences. So, next time you're in the region, carve out an entire day to explore the park and take a few Instagram-worthy photos along the way, too. 

Related Articles