5 Best Italy Tours for Seniors

The food, the architecture, la dolce vita: Italy, like a good Barolo, only gets better with age. It is a destination that rewards life experience and the appreciation for the finer things that come in your golden years.

senior travel tours to italy

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Below, we’ve handpicked a selection of tours specifically with over 60s in mind. Some offer a broader introduction to this wonderful peninsular, while others really dig under the soil of some of its most beguiling regions. Rest assured, whichever you choose refinement, renaissance art, and really good pasta await.

13-Day Italy Sightseeing Tour of Rome, Lake Como and Sorrento A heaving antipasti platter of a tour, which offers a comprehensive introduction Italy’s highlights. Starting in the nation’s ancient, hectic capital, be prepared to dip down to the sun-drenched glamour glamor of Capris, then up to the sacred heights of the monastery at Assisi. After, it’s on to peerless Venice, to the pinch-yourself beauty of the Lakes, to the fashion houses of Milan, and finally, the museums of Florence. A tour to leave you wondering just how one country could contain so much. From 3,105 euros

Book at Trafalgar

Small Group Food & Wine Tour of Sicily

senior travel tours to italy

Even on your own, it can be tough to find a bad meal in Italy, so imagine how well you’ll eat with a guide taking you to the source of so many of the country’s mouth watering produce. Not least one in Sicily – the volcanic island of the tip of the peninsula’s boot, where even Italians go on holiday to eat well. Expect street food in Sicily’s capital Palermo, wines from the slopes of Mount Etna, and some of the most mind blowing trattoria dishes you’ve ever tasted – all taken at your own pace; a part of your very own private tour. From 2,295 euros

Book at Bookmundi

Ultimate Italy

Starting in Rome and looping its way elegantly toward Venice, really this tour should be called Ultimate Northern Italy. You’ll have time to unwind in the Tuscan Hills, to explore Florentine museums, and to marvel at the wild and colourful coastline of Cinque Terre – a slightly off-the-beaten track destination loved by the Romantic poets of old. With boat trips on Como before your final destination, it’s a trip marinaded in relaxed sophistication with hotels to match. From 2,379 euros

Lakes & Lagoon, Como, Lake Garda & Venice 6 days private tour

There’s a lot of hyperbole in travel writing, but in this case it’s no exaggeration to suggest that this tour takes in more natural and manmade beauty than any other of a similar length anywhere on Earth. Like in a dream made of water, light, and Venetian Gothic you’ll float across crystalline lakes under mountains, along achingly evocative narrow canals, and out into the great waterborne carnival of the Grand Canal itself. A truly superlative experience, and that’s before you even consider the food. From 6,829 euros

Book at TourRadar

Taste of Italy

senior travel tours to italy

Proof that having a good time doesn’t have to be expensive, this budget tour hits a whole ring of Italy’s better and lesser known sights, from Rome to Oviedo, Venice to Cinqe Terre, in whiplash succession. Expect a whole lifetime of memories to be crammed into no more than eight days in which no fewer than ten separate destinations will get visited. Take a big SIM card and enough pictures to convince friends you’ve been away for a whole month! From 1,084 euros

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Rome to Venice Italy Tour for Seniors | 12-Day Itinerary

senior travel tours to italy

Discover the Italy that has enchanted generations, from the glory of the Roman Empire to the stunning art of Florence, the romance of the Tuscan landscape and the charming canals of Venice. Awash with art, culture and sumptuous cuisine, our Italy tour for seniors can include as much or as little as you like. We’ll help you to explore the highlights and hidden gems of Italy in comfort and style.

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senior travel tours to italy

Welcome to Rome Italy’s Eternal City

The Italy Tour for Seniors starts with a private transfer from the airport to the hotel of your choice for 4 nights. Settle in, adjust to your exciting new surroundings, and get ready for your adventure ahead!

senior travel tours to italy

Walking The Eternal City

This morning, meet your private guide and set the scene for your Rome walking tour discovering vibrant squares, magic fountains and unusual talking statues. Stroll through the cobbled streets, which takes you to the famous Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona and Trevi Fountain but also little-known treasures. Stop for in-depth discoveries, photo ops and a gelato break. Perfect for first-timers, this introductory tour will give you a greater understanding of the city splendors and prominent place in world history. The afternoon is at leisure to absorb the city’s everyday charms.

senior travel tours to italy

Step into the Pages of Roman History

The most memorable treasure Rome has to offer is the feeling of history that lingers all around you. The monumental ruins that remain from the city's glorious past are the focus of this private guided walking tour that starts with the most iconic of them all, the Colosseum. After marveling at its vast interior, you enter the Roman Forum the heart of Roman daily life. Finally climb to the top of the Capitoline Hill religious center of ancient Rome. The rest of your day is at your leisure - personalized recommendations will be provided.

senior travel tours to italy

Treasures of the Vatican

Michelangelo Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica are the highlights of any vacation in Rome. These treasures and much more will be revealed by your private guide. Stroll the Vatican Museums, which houses the most extensive collection of art in the world. Discover cool Renaissance-era maps, classical Roman sculpture and drama-filled tapestries along the way, ending at the Sistine Chapel. Then be humbled by the beauty of St. Peter's Basilica with its imposing dome and the Pieta, both designed by Michelangelo. Balance of the day at leisure - personalized recommendations will be provided.

senior travel tours to italy

Departure from Rome to Florence via Orvieto

Today it's off to the capital of Tuscany and the birthplace of the Renaissance. Transfer with private driver stopping en route in the walled hill town of Orvieto. Located in the beautiful Umbrian region, Italy’s ‘Green Heart, Orvieto is sure to capture your heart. The cobbled streets of Orvieto are charmingly medieval and away from the tourist routes but with plenty of distractions including authentic restaurants to enjoy local delicacies. Following lunch, you'll be taken to your hotel in Florence where you will be staying for 4 nights. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.

senior travel tours to italy

Journey to the Renaissance

This morning your private guide meets you at your hotel and whisk you off to see the heart of the city. Walk through the history of Florence and relive the Renaissance in the footsteps of Michelangelo. Discover Ponte Vecchio, the city’s oldest bridge. Enjoy Piazza della Signoria a virtual open-air museum of artwork by Renaissance masters. Then comes Piazza del Duomo, where the cathedral, baptistery and bell tower are located. Finally learn the storied history behind Michelangelo’s David. The rest of your day is at your leisure - personalized recommendations will be provided.

senior travel tours to italy

In the Heart of the Tuscan Vineyards

This morning, it is in your private vehicle with driver-guide that you crisscross the Tuscan countryside, in the direction of the Chianti wine region celebrated all over the world. Tidy rows of vineyards set amidst historic villages and silvery-green olive trees are the scenic backdrop for this wine excursion. You will visit vineyards and century-old cellars, a guided tasting of the estates organic wines and extra-virgin olive oil will follow. Head back to the hotel in the afternoon with the rest of the day at your leisure.

senior travel tours to italy

Masterpieces of the Uffizi Gallery

Stroll with your private guide through the cobbled streets to the Uffizi Gallery, home to the world’s most extensive collection of Renaissance art. Following a carefully selected route, you will explore the rich artistic layers of famous works, as well as the complex interplay of culture, patronage, and artistic inspiration that gave rise to them. The tour also offers an intriguing second glance for seasoned Uffizi visitors, with an in-depth exploration of the themes that have made the works so enduring. Rest of the day at your leisure - personalized recommendations will be provided.

senior travel tours to italy

Departure from Florence to Venice via Bologna

When it comes to Italian food, Bologna is the capital! Today, transfer with private driver stopping en route in this historic town famed for its tortellini, mortadella and Bolognese sauce. With its 23 miles of covered porticos, it is a walker’s delight in any season, yet is surprisingly free of tourists. Savor the city highlights and culinary wonders before proceeding to Venice parking lot. Here you'll be taken by private water taxi to your hotel in Venice where you will be staying for for 3 nights. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.

senior travel tours to italy

Enjoy a True Taste of Venice

Step away from the crowds of tourists and see the off the beaten path Venice has to offer as you wander its winding alleys, cross historic bridges and drift along canals on a gondola. This morning your private guide meets you at your hotel and whisk you off to experience the city like a local. While the hidden gems of Venice will certainly amaze you, the pleasures of the historic Rialto market are sure to delight. To take the edge off, the tour concludes with a private gondola ride. Rest of the day free to do as you please- personalized recommendations will be provided.

senior travel tours to italy

Island Paradise

Meet your private guide at your hotel and journey by private boat across the Venetian Lagoon to Murano. Here you will visit a glassblower's studio, watch the artisans at work and learn about Venetian glassblowing art. Neighboring Burano has canals lined with colored houses and is famous for its lacemaking, a skill that has developed here since the 16th century. You will learn about this age-old technique at a workshop where lace continues to be made by hand today. After the tour, return to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure - personalized recommendations will be provided.

senior travel tours to italy

Depart Venice

The Italy Tour for Seniors ends with a private motorboat transfer to the Venice airport, railway station or port for your departure arrangements. Buon Viaggio!

senior travel tours to italy

Itinerary Highlights

  • Discover the splendors of Rome
  • Immerse yourself in ancient Roman times
  • Admire the Vatican treasures
  • Enjoy the walled hilltop town of Orvieto
  • Journey to the Renaissance & meet Michelangelo’s David
  • Explore Tuscan vineyards
  • Experience the timeless beauty of the Uffizi artworks
  • Take a bite of Bologna
  • Get a true taste of Venice
  • Learn about the age-old Venetian glassblowing & lacemaking traditions
  • Benefit from the ease of having all the trip planning details handled, so all you have to do is enjoy your private Italy tour

Private Trip Pricing & Availability

Italy tour for seniors 2024.

  • Prices start from €10250 PP, based on double occupancy in 4-star hotels and for travel in low season (excluding flights).
  • The final price of your trip will vary on the itinerary itself, along with factors such as your hotel choices, your travel dates and the number of travelers in your party.
  • Travel with your private party on this Tailor Made Italy Tour for Seniors. With no fixed dates or set schedules, you can travel whenever you want, on your own terms.

What Is Included

  • Customized travel planning for your style
  • 4 nights at the accommodation of your choice in Rome
  • 4 nights at the accommodation of your choice in Florence
  • 3 nights at the accommodation of your choice in Venice
  • 11 Breakfasts
  • Privately guided tours tailored specifically to you
  • Inspiring local guides in each destination
  • Private transportation as per the itinerary
  • Private gondola ride
  • Private boat service as per the itinerary
  • Private airport transfer on arrival and departure to/from the hotel
  • Colosseum & Roman Forum skip the line reservations & tickets
  • Vatican skip the line reservations & tickets
  • Accademia Gallery skip the line reservations & tickets
  • Uffizi Gallery skip the line reservations & tickets

What Is Not Included

  • International or domestic airfare
  • Travel insurance
  • Local city tax for overnight stays
  • Meals & beverages not mentioned in itinerary
  • Tips & gratuities (optional)
  • Personal expenses
  • Anything not expressly mentioned as included

Accommodation Options

When it comes to accommodations, there is no one size fits all. For your bespoke trip, you can choose your hotel from our handpicked selection below or we’ll make personalized suggestions based on your preferences.

Vetted options for senior-friendly hotels in Rome (nights 1-4)

4-Star Hotel Dei Mellini | Elegant interior design featuring warm colors and contemporary Italian flair | Set within walking distance of most of Rome's main sights, including the Vatican district 5-Star Rocco Forte Hotel De Russie | Excellent spa facilities | Piazza di Spagna is a 8-min walk away

Vetted options for senior-friendly hotels in Florence (nights 5-8)

4-Star Plaza Hotel Lucchesi | Rooftop & Pool | Piazza della Signoria is a 10-minute walk away 5-Star Hotel Bernini Palace | Rooms have been completely refreshed |Ponte Vecchio is a 5-minute walk away

Vetted options for senior-friendly hotels in Venice (nights 9-11)

4-Star Hotel Ai Reali - Small Luxury Hotels of the World | Modern elegant rooms | Rialto Bridge is a 2-minute walk away 5-Star Ca'di Dio - Small Luxury Hotel | Opened in 2020 | St. Mark's Square is a 10-minute walk away

Booking Procedure

  • Start Filling out Our Quick Trip Inquiry Form After submitting the trip request we match you with one of our local specialists who will assist you with travel consultation.
  • Work out the Trip Plan Together Do you like this Italy Tour for Seniors but prefer to customize it? As always, the sample itinerary can be tweaked and personalized. Your dedicated travel specialist will put together a tailor-made trip based on your input and our first-hand experiences and knowledge.
  • Book Your Trip Once you’re 100% happy with the custom travel plan, you can book your trip via our secure payment system. For information on payments, we’ve included answers to the most frequently asked questions —with shortcuts to direct you to the right place.

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What's the journey pace, do you offer southern italy tours for seniors, what about food, would you like to personalize this tour, you're exploring.

COVID-19 safety measures, hours, and updates When you travel with Nancy Aiello Tours, your personal trip designer will provide up-to-date information on specific COVID-19 policies and considerations. Sounds like something you’d like to experience? Trust the experts at Nancy Aiello Tours to build an itinerary from scratch just for you with all the must-see sights and hidden gems.

senior travel tours to italy

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3 Great Tailored Italy Tours for Seniors

Table of Contents

Italy Tours for Seniors

Italy, with its stunning beauty, historical significance, and diverse culture, has long been a favored destination for travelers around the world. Senior citizens, in particular, appreciate the charm and allure of this captivating country. If you're a senior citizen with a passion for travel, Italy should undoubtedly be on your list of must-visit places. Its enchanting cities, picturesque countryside, and world-renowned cuisine offer a plethora of experiences to enjoy.

To make your Italy tours for seniors even more memorable, we have compiled a curated list of tours tailored specifically for seniors. These tours take into consideration the unique needs and interests of older travelers, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Whether you seek adventure, educational enrichment, or a combination of both, there are various options available to suit your preferences and needs.

ElderTreks: Adventure Travel for Seniors

For those seeking an adventurous spirit, ElderTreks specializes in creating exhilarating travel experiences for seniors. Their "Best of Italy" tour is a remarkable option, taking you to the iconic cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice, as well as other remarkable destinations across the country. This adventure-packed itinerary allows you to immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Italy.

Road Scholar: Educational Experiences for Seniors

If you yearn for a trip that combines education and exploration, Road Scholar offers a range of Italy tours for seniors specifically tailored for seniors. Their "Classical Italy" tour is a standout choice, encompassing visits to Rome, Pompeii, and the breathtaking Amalfi Coast. With knowledgeable guides and immersive experiences, Road Scholar ensures you gain a deeper understanding of Italy's fascinating history and heritage.

Grand European Travel: Italian Delights for Seniors

Grand European Travel is another esteemed travel company that caters to Italy tours for seniors for those seeking the best of Italy. Their itineraries include the "Best of Italy" tour, which covers the major highlights of Rome, Florence, Venice, and more. Additionally, their "Tuscan Treasures" tour focuses on the enchanting region of Tuscany, renowned for its scenic landscapes and renowned gastronomy.

When planning your trip, it's vital to consider individual preferences and needs. Whether you want an active tour, a leisurely exploration, or a mix of both, these Italy tours for seniors offer flexibility and customization. Researching and comparing different options will help you find the perfect itinerary that aligns with your interests and travel style.

Unforgettable Adventures Await: Explore the Beauty, History, and Culture of Italy on Tailored Tours for Seniors

Italy, a country renowned for its beauty, is a treasure trove of history and culture eagerly awaiting exploration by seniors who possess a deep appreciation for travel. From the awe-inspiring ancient wonders of Rome to the enchanting canals of Venice, Italy offers something for everyone. This diverse country invites you to embark on carefully crafted Italy tours for seniors, meticulously designed to cater to their specific needs and interests.

By joining these specialized tours, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Italian life, savoring incredible culinary delights and forging memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. So, it's time to pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and prepare yourself for an unparalleled journey through the fascinating landscapes of Italy.

Planning Your Trip

Now that you're aware of the fantastic tour options available for seniors, let's delve into some essential tips to make your Italian adventure even more enjoyable.

Planning ahead is key when traveling to Italy. By researching your destination and making necessary reservations or arrangements in advance, you can ensure a smooth journey. This is particularly important if you have specific needs or preferences. Whether it's booking accessible accommodations or securing tickets to popular attractions, early planning will help you avoid any unnecessary stress.

Pack Appropriately For All Weather Conditions

Italy experiences a range of weather throughout the year, so it's crucial to pack appropriate clothing. Make sure to bring layers that can be easily added or removed based on temperature fluctuations. Additionally, carry a copy of your passport and any important documents. Don't forget to pack any necessary medications and travel insurance details, ensuring you're well-prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.

Learn Some Italian Basic Phrases

While many Italians speak English, making an effort to speak some Italian can enhance your travel experience. Learning a few basic Italian phrases such as "ciao" (hello), "grazie" (thank you), and "buongiorno" (good morning/afternoon) can go a long way in building connections and showing appreciation for the local culture. Italians are known for their warmth and hospitality, and attempting to communicate in their language will surely earn you smiles and friendly responses.

Stay Hydrated and Savour the Culinary Delights

Italy's picturesque landscapes often come with sunny weather, especially during the summer months. To stay hydrated and ensure your well-being, make it a priority to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Carry a refillable water bottle and take advantage of the numerous drinking fountains available across cities.

Additionally, don't miss the opportunity to indulge in the country's delectable cuisine. Savor authentic pasta dishes, mouthwatering pizzas, and gelato that will tempt your taste buds at every corner. Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide, and for good reason. From the rich flavors of authentic pasta dishes to the thin-crust perfection of mouthwatering pizzas, Italy offers a gastronomic journey like no other.

Explore the local trattorias and osterias, where you can indulge in regional specialties prepared with love and tradition. Every region in Italy has its own culinary gems, each with a unique twist on classic Italian flavors. Whether you find yourself in the hearty flavors of Bolognese sauce in Emilia-Romagna, the fresh seafood delights of the Amalfi Coast, or the rustic charm of a Tuscan trattoria, your taste buds will be in for an extraordinary treat.

Dining In Italy

Embrace the Italian way of dining, where meals are meant to be savored and enjoyed. Take your time, relish each bite, and allow yourself to fully immerse in the culinary traditions of this beloved country. Whether you're sitting at a lively piazza, enjoying a leisurely outdoor meal, or discovering hidden gems tucked away in narrow alleyways, the food in Italy will delight you at every turn.

So, when you embark on your Italy tours for seniors, be sure to make food a priority. Allow yourself to fully indulge in the country's delectable cuisine, and let the flavors transport you to a place of pure culinary bliss. After all, Italian cuisine is not just about nourishment; it's an art, a celebration of life, and an essential part of the Italian experience. Bon appétit!

Utilize Italy's Efficient Public Transportation

Italy boasts an efficient public transportation system, including trains, buses, and trams. Opting for these modes of transportation can provide convenience and economic benefits, particularly in crowded cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice. Embrace the local way of life by hopping on a train to reach your destination or exploring the picturesque countryside through a scenic bus journey. It's not just a practical choice but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the Italian way of life.

Embrace the Art of Slow Travel

Italy is a country brimming with historical wonders, awe-inspiring art, and vibrant cultural experiences. With so much to see and do, it can be tempting to rush from one landmark to another. However, it's important to embrace the art of slow travel and savor each moment. Take your time to wander through charming neighborhoods, enjoy leisurely meals at local trattorias, and immerse yourself in the laid-back Italian lifestyle. By not overloading your itinerary, you can truly appreciate the beauty and essence of the places you visit.

Buon Viaggio!

Italy is an enchanting destination for senior citizens seeking a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With a wide array of tours designed specifically for seniors, you can embark on a memorable journey and enjoy the enthralling country. Whether you choose an adventure-focused itinerary with ElderTreks, an educational experience with Road Scholar, or a well-rounded exploration with Grand European Travel, these tours cater to different interests and travel styles.

Remember to plan ahead, pack wisely, learn some basic Italian phrases, stay hydrated, utilize public transportation, and embrace the art of slow travel. By following these tips, you can maximize your enjoyment and make the most of your time in Italy.

So, why wait? Start researching the tour options, find the one that resonates with you, and get ready for unforgettable Italy tours for seniors. Buon viaggio (bon voyage)!

senior travel tours to italy

Rochelle Long

Passionate about discovering the hidden gems of our planet. I'm a travel writer on a perpetual quest for extraordinary experiences. Through my blog posts, I aim to transport readers to breathtaking destinations, sharing vivid narratives that ignite wanderlust and inspire adventure. From the serene beaches of Bali to the bustling streets of Tokyo, join me as we embark on a magical journey together. Let's explore the world, one word at a time!

Learn more about me on LinkedIn and follow me on Twitter .

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Italy Tours for Seniors 2024/2025

With options that combine cultural exploration, leisure activities, and culinary experiences, Italy offers a wide range of tours for seniors. On an Italy tour , senior travelers can visit charming medieval towns like Siena and San Gimignano as a part of their wine-tasting tour in Italy , take leisurely strolls, or drive through scenic landscapes. They also have the option to tour the Vatican and the eternal city of Rome to admire their highlights like the Vatican Museums, the Colosseum, and the Pantheon. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, a tour of Venice and the Veneto region is a good option. From comfortable transportation to accessible accommodations, our Italy tours for seniors are carefully designed to make sure that the travelers have a stress-free and enjoyable experience.

Check out our list below of the best Italy tours for seniors.

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Heritage, Culture and History of Italy | Small Group Tours for Seniors

Rome, the world’s first superpower, lasted for almost a thousand years. In this small group tour for senior couples and solo travellers we thread our way through the Rome of the Emperors , then through the Italy of the Renaissance , Michelangelo, the Medici , and the Borgia. In the south, we visit the cosmopolitan city of Naples as well as Pompeii and the island retreat of Capri.

From $9,051 USD

Departing Sep, Apr, Mar

Italian history tours

  • 1. Trace the hub of Europe's greatest empire through the fascinating Roman Forum, Colisseum, and Vatican Basilica.
  • 2. See the treasures of Tuscany, including the Florence of Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Donatello.
  • 3. Learn about the Franciscan religious order while visiting the Basilica of San Francesco in Assisi, Umbria.
  • 4. Explore Campania, see the earliest Greek settlement of Cuma, and marvel at the Roman ruins of Pompeii.

Heritage, Culture and History of Italy | Small Group Tours for Seniors itinerary

  • Departure Dates

An Italy Tour for Seniors: explore the heritage, culture & history of Italy

Odyssey offers easy, convenient, and relaxed escorted small group tours across Western Europe and beyond. We explore Italy's’s fairy-tale natural beauty, its ancient Roman , and Imperial heritage, its World Heritage Sites, and world famous cities, all with some truly spectacular scenery along the way. This and more is all waiting to be explored on one of Odyssey’s small group tours of Italy, designed for the senior traveller, including solo and led by experienced, and enthusiastic like minded people.

This escorted small group tour exploring the heritage, culture, and history of Italy is a popular 22-day program for couples and solo travellers. Beginning in Rome , this trip to Italy, especially designed for mature-aged and senior travellers , is a fully escorted tour with a Program Leader local guides.

This small group tour of Italy examines the heritage, culture, history of this country. This tour includes expert local guides who share their knowledge of the culture and heritage of Italy. The program leader and the local guides are all passionate about the places they are leading the group. They are delighted to share their enthusiasm with you.

Heritage, culture, history of Italy, small group tour, takes you from the eternal city of Rome into the rolling terracotta countryside of Tuscany with its hilltop towns and on to the olive-clad slopes of the Paduan Hills. We stay in the green and craggy landscape of Umbria and spend 5 days at Castellammare di Stabbio on the Bay of Naples where we have the chance to view the breathtaking scenery of the UNESCO World Heritage Site , Amalfi Coast, with its whitewashed villages tumble into azure blue seas.

Our fully escorted small group tour of Italy features guided walks through the best of the Italian countryside. We also take in many of Italy’s major cities. These include viewing the Renaissance cities of Florence , Pisa, and Lucca. We also visit the Umbrian medieval cities of Perugia, Gubbio, and St Francis' Assisi . In the north of Italy, we visit the ancient university seats of Verona and Padua . We take in the stunningly beautiful Venice . Meanwhile, in the south, we visit the spectacularly cosmopolitan city of Naples, the Roman remains of Pompeii and the island retreat of Capri.

Articles and Other Italy tours for seniors by Odyssey Traveller

As a small group tour of Italy, it is perfect for the mature single traveller or couple seeking to learn about this collection of Italian cities and principalities while enjoying the country's many splendours.

Odyssey Traveller also offers a short, 11-day version of this tour .

We have a collection of guided tours for mature-aged and senior travellers seeking to see, feel and learn about this country. Click here for our other tours to Italy , and our tours to Europe .

We have a tour focused on Southern Italy and Sicily . Click here to see this tour package.

To prepare for the trip, check out our blog post listing 10 great books to read before travelling Italy! You can also see our other Italy-related articles here .

For more details about this tour from Odyssey Traveller or other small group tours of Italy offered, click the ‘Top 5’ or ‘Itinerary’ buttons above! If you’re keen to experience this tour, please call or send an email. Or, to book, simply fill in the form on the right hand side of this page.

Roman ruins, Rome, Italy

Day 1: Rome

Accommodation: 2 nights at Milani Hotel or similar.

Upon arrival in Rome we will come individually to the hotel. In the evening we will walk to a local restaurant for a briefing on the tour and dinner.

Founded by the Etruscans, Rome became the centre of Europe’s greatest empire and one of the world’s great religions. It still offers an astonishing array of outstanding sights, from the Roman Forum and Colosseum, to the great Vatican Basilica of St. Peter. The city is full of rich churches, monuments, and museums. Rome is a city in which a phenomenal concentration of history, legend, and icons co-exist with the hustle and bustle of its 4 million inhabitants.

Day 2: Rome

Accommodation: Milani Hotel or similar.

Today we will enjoy a morning city tour and learn more about the culture and history of the people of Italy. The afternoon is free to explore the city on our own.

Day 3: Castellamare di Stabia

Accommodation: 5 nights at Castellammare di Stabia or similar.

This morning we travel to Castellamare di Stabia near Naples, which is associated with the Etruscans and the Greeks. On the way we will pause in Cassino for a visit to the Abby. After we have lunch individually, we will continue on a guided tour of the preserved Roman city of Herculaneum, before arriving at our hotel in Castellamaare di Stabia in time for dinner.

Day 4: Castellamare di Stabia

Accommodation: Castellammare di Stabia or similar.

Today we will learn about Italy’s earliest Greek settlement, Cuma, where we will visit the Cave of Cumean Sybil. We will have time to explore the archaeological site before getting lunch individually and enjoying the afternoon at leisure.

Day 5: Castellamare di Stabia

Accommodation: Castellammare di Stabiaor similar.

This morning we will visit Pompeii with our local specialist guide and have a tour of the archaeological site. This region experienced a period of great prosperity under Roman leadership, as can be seen in the superb remains at Pompeii and Herculaneum. We discover the rich Roman heritage as we visit the excavated site of Pompeii, then we will transfer to Naples where we have lunch individually before having a guided tour of the main sights of the city. We visit the National Archaeological Museum and then enjoy some free time to explore the city on our own. We also visit the city of Naples and experience the awesomely stunning coastal scenery of the Amalfi Riviera where beautiful villages such as Positano and Amalfi cling to the dramatic rocks above the Gulf of Salerno.

We return to the hotel in the evening in time for dinner.

Day 6: Castellamare di Stabia

This morning we will travel to Paestrum and visit its archaeological site with our specialist guide. We will see the remains of superb Greek Temples. We will return to Castellamare di Stabia and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 7: Castellamare di Stabia

This morning we drive the Amalfi Coast, pausing at some of the beautiful villages clinging to the rocks. We will meet our local guide and board the fast ferry from Sorrento across to Capri. We will learn about the Roman era as we visit Capri, from where Tiberius ruled the Empire.

We will visit the Blue Grotto before taking the funicular to the town of Capri, where we have a walking tour. We will transfer to Anacapri for another walking tour prior to taking the fast ferry back to the mainland. Lunch today is at our own arrangements on Capri and dinner is back at our accommodation.

Day 8: Assisi

Accommodation: 3 nights at Domus Pacis or similar.

Today we will leave the Bay of Naples for Assisi. En route we will visit the magnificently opulent Palazzo Reale at Caserta, a Versailles style palace built for Bourbon King Charles III, and pause at the Etruscan city of Orvieto, with its impressive cathedral. Lunch will be at our own arrangements and dinner will be at our hotel in Assisi.

Long dismissed as Tuscany’s “gentler sister,” Umbria has recently emerged from the shadow of its better-known western neighbour. Forming an expanse of gentle pastoral countryside and high mountain wilderness of oak woods and ice-clear streams, the picturesque region has been dubbed the “Green Heart of Italy.” It is a strikingly beautiful area with a profusion of fine historic hill-towns, such as Perugia, the region’s capital, Gubbio, Todi, and Spoletto. The region also boasts some fine Roman remains and some of Italy’s oldest churches. Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis, contains the Basilica di San Francesco, frescoed in part by Giotto and Orvieto, magnificently situated on a volcanic crag.

Day 9: Assisi

Accommodation: Domus Pacis or similar.

Today we will meet our local guide for a morning walking tour of Assisi including a visit to the Basilica. In the afternoon we travel to Spoleto for lunch at our own arrangements and enjoy some time to explore this former Roman colony at leisure.

Day 10: Assisi

This morning we will visit Gubbio. This beautiful Umbrian town has much to offer. We visit the Church of St Umbaldo, raised above Mount Ingino, which offers stunning views of the town and surronding countryside. After lunch we will then transfer through to the university town of Perugia for lunch at our own arrangements, followed by a guided tour of the main sights of the city.

Day 11: Padua

Accommodation: 5 nights at Padova or similar.

Today we will leave Assisi and head north to Padua. En route to Veneto we will pause in Europe’s oldest and scenically located republic, San Marino. We will also see Ravenna, site of Dante’s tomb. Ravenna is renowned for its Byzantine mosaics. We will arrive in Padua in time for dinner at our hotel.

The Veneto is a region of great diversity, from the foothills of the Dolomites to the flat marshlands of the Venetian lagoon. It is a fertile land where many crops are raised on silt deposits. The Romans built their frontier posts here and many of these, such as Vicenza, Padua, and Verona survive to this day. Strategically placed at the hub of the empire’s road network, these cities prospered under Roman rule but suffered under the subsequent Germanic invasions. It was only with the rise of the Venetian Empire that the region’s fortunes revived. The medieval cities of the Veneto were located on important trade routes and the consequent wealth gained is reflected in Renaissance palaces and fine Palladian villas.

Day 12: Padua

Accommodation: Padova or similar.

This morning we will meet our local guide and visit the highlights of Padua, including its impressive Basilica and Scrovegni Chapel. Lunch is at our own arrangements and the afternoon is free to explore at leisure.

Day 13: Padua

Today we will explore Venice. We take the Vaporetto to transfer to Piazza San Marco where we meet our local guide for a walking tour, including visits to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace. The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy this fantastic city. We will come individually to Piazzale Romana to board the Vaporetto back to the mainland and transfer to Padua. Dinner will be at our hotel.

Day 14: Padua

Today we will travel to Vicenza and our local guide will lead us on a walking tour of this beautiful city, birthplace of Andrea Palladio. WE will explore the sights of the city and vist the impressive Teatro Olimpico. The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy the city on your own before we return to our hotel in Padua for dinner.

Day 15: Padua

Today we will travel to Vicenza and our local guide will lead us on a walking tour to explore the sights of the city including the Teatro Olimpico. The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy the city on our own before we return to our hotel in Padua.

Day 16: Florence

Accommodation: 5 nights at Istituto Suore Di S.Elisabetta or similar.

En route to Florence we will pause in the city of Verona with its fascinating Roman remains and “Romeo & Juliet” balcony, and enjoy a guided walking tour. We arrive in Florence in the evening for dinner at a local restaurant nearby our hotel.

Renowned for its art, history and evocative landscape, Tuscany is a region where the past and present merge in pleasant harmony. Hill-towns gaze across the countryside from on high, many circled by Etruscan walls and slender cypress trees, olive groves, or vineyards. Handsome palaces testify to the region’s wealth, while medieval town halls indicate a long-standing tradition of self-government.

Day 17: Florence

Accommodation: Istituto Suore Di S.Elisabetta or similar.

This morning we will explore the remarkable city of Florence with our local guide. We will visit the Duomo, including the Baptistery, and also the Accademia. Lunch will be at our own arrangements and in the afternoon we will explore the Uffizi gallery on our own (entrance included).

Day 18: Florence

This morning we will view the ancient Roman colony of Lucca, with its fine medieval streets. This afternoon, after lunch at our own arrangements, we will explore the city of Pisa with its infamous leaning tower. Our guided tour includes entrances to the Duomo, Baptistery, and Campo Santo. We will return to Florence in the evening for dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 19: Florence

Today we will have a guided walking tour of medieval Siena and view the main sights of the city. The remainder of the day will be at leisure in Florence.

Day 20: Florence

We spend today in the Tuscan countryside as we visit the hilltop village of San Gimigniano with its 13 medieval towers. After lunch at our own arrangements, we visit the Etruscan city of Volterra before returning to Florence.

Day 21: Rome

Accommodation: 1 night at Milani Hotel or similar.

En route to Rome we will visit Arezzo, whose 13th century church of San Francesco houses one of Italy’s greatest fresco cycles, and pause in the model Renaissance town of Pienza. Tonight we enjoy farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 22: Rome

Our tour will conclude after breakfast.

Includes / Excludes

What’s included in our Tour

  • Transport and field trips as indicated.
  • Services of a Tour Leader.
  • 21 nights accommodation.
  • Applicable entry fees and services of local guides.
  • Service charges and gratuities.
  • Touring by comfortable and modern coach.
  • Detailed tour information booklet.
  • 21 breakfasts and 21 dinners.

What’s not included in our Tour

  • Items of a personal nature such as telephone calls and laundry.
  • Any international or domestic flights.
  • Comprehensive travel insurance
  • Airport transfers.

Participants must be able to carry their own luggage, climb and descend stairs, be in good health, mobile and able to participate in 3-5 hours of physical activity per day, the equivalent of walking / hiking up to 8 kilometers per day on uneven ground.

29 March 2025

Ends 19 April 2025 • 22 days

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Prices are per person and valid until 30th December 2024.

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If less than 30 days before your tour starts you are unable to travel as a result of Government travel restrictions, Odyssey Traveller will assist you with a date change, provide you with a credit or process a refund for your booking less any non-recoverable costs.

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The safety of our travellers, tour leader, local guide and support staff has always been our top priority and with the new guidelines for public health and safety for keeping safe for destinations around the world, we’ve developed our plan to give you peace of mind when travelling with us.

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The tour would be of particular interest to anyone with an interest in Roman and Italian Renaissance history. It would appeal particularly to those with an interest in sacred art and architecture. Participant May 2018

One of my most pleasurable holidays, and one I must repeat, as it was not long enough. We were most fortunate in having our marvellous tour leader.

• It was a marvellous tour. I was privileged, as we all were, to see so many things of beauty, and so much history, in your very capable hands. Thank you for passing on some of your knowledge, and for your ready assistance. Thank you also for the photos and the list of guides; I'd been trying to remember the name of that rather good, but unusual fellow we met in Siena. No doubt because of his enthusiasm - and eccentricity - I remember Siena so well. (BH - Heritage Italy)

Participant May -15

• Thank you so much for being a wonderful leader for the Heritage Italy tour. It was so interesting and has left me with lots of things to think about and follow up in my reading. I found I had an old book giving the history of Greek science, i.e. the thinking of the Greeks in the early BC time. An interesting addition to our visit to Paestum and Cumae. The whole experience was marvellous and I have to thank you again for your kindness and consideration and the generous amount of time you gave to us all. I really appreciated that. (MB - Heritage Italy)

Apart from just touching base and saying hi, I wanted to thank you for such a wonderful trip. Fourth time in Italy for me but the chance to get a little off the beaten track was really special... not to mention I got so much more insight into Italy than I had before. (KG Heritage Italy)

Participant Sep -15

Reading List Download PDF

The italians.

John Hooper

Sublime and maddening, fascinating yet baffling, Italy is a country of endless paradox and seemingly unanswerable riddles.

John Hooper's marvellously entertaining and perceptive new book is the ideal companion for anyone seeking to understand contemporary Italy and the unique character of the Italians. Looking at the facts that lie behind - and often belie - the stereotypes, his revealing book sheds new light on many aspects of Italian life: football and Freemasonry, sex, symbolism and the reason why Italian has twelve words for a coat hanger, yet none for a hangover.

The Pursuit of Italy: A History of a Land, its Regions and their Peoples

David Gilmour

Visiting a villa built by Lorenzo de Medici outside Pisa, David Gilmour fell into conversation about the unification of Italy with a distinguished former minister: '"You know, Davide," he said in a low conspiratorial voice, as if uttering a heresy, "Garibaldi did Italy a great disservice. If he had not invaded Sicily and Naples, we in the north would have the richest and most civilized state in Europe." After looking cautiously round the room he added in an even lower voice, "Of course to the south we would have a neighbour like Egypt."'

Was the elderly Italian right? Was the unification of Italy a mistake? The Pursuit of Italy traces the whole history of the Italian peninsula in a wonderfully readable style, full of well-chosen stories and observations from personal experience, and peopled by many of the great figures of the Italian past, from Cicero and Virgil to Dante and the Medici, from Cavour and Verdi to the controversial political figures of the twentieth century. The book gives a clear-eyed view of the Risorgimento, the pivotal event in modern Italian history, debunking the influential myths which have grown up around it.

Gilmour shows that the glory of Italy has always lain in its regions, with their distinctive art, civic cultures, identities and cuisine. The regions produced the medieval communes and the Renaissance, the Venetian Republic and the Grand Duchy of Tuscany, two of the most civilized states of European history. Their inhabitants identified themselves not as Italians, but as Tuscans and Venetians, Sicilians and Lombards, Neapolitans and Genoese. This is where the strength and culture of Italy still comes from, rather than from misconceived and mishandled concepts of nationalism and unity.

This wise and enormously engaging book explains the course of Italian history in a manner and with a coherence which no one with an interest in the country could fail to enjoy.

Florence: The Biography of a City

Christopher Hibbert

This book is as captivating as the city itself. Hibbert's gift is weaving political, social and art history into an elegantly readable and marvellously lively whole. The author's book on Florence will also be at once a history and a guide book and will be enhanced by splendid photographs and illustrations and line drawings which will describe all teh buildings and treasures of the city.

Rome: The Biography of a City

This beautifully written, informative study is a portrait, a history and a superb guide book, capturing fully the seductive beauty and the many layered past of the Eternal City. It covers 3,000 years of history from the city's quasi-mythical origins, through the Etruscan kings, the opulent glory of classical Rome, the decadence and decay of the Middle Ages and the beauty and corruption of the Renaissance, to its time at the heart of Mussolini's fascist Italy. Exploring the city's streets and buildings, peopled with popes, gladiators, emperors, noblemen and peasants, this volume details the turbulent and dramatic history of Rome in all its depravity and grandeur.

The Popes: A History

John Julius Norwich

John Julius Norwich examines the oldest continuing institution in the world, tracing the papal line down the centuries from St Peter (traditionally - but by no means historically - the first Pope) to the present. Of the 280-odd holders of the supreme office, some have unquestionably been saints; others have wallowed in unspeakable iniquity.

One was said to have been a woman, her sex being revealed only when she improvidently gave birth to a baby during a papal procession. Almost as shocking was Formosus whose murdered corpse was exhumed, clothed in pontifical vestments, propped up on a throne and subjected to trial.

From the glories of Byzantium to the decay of Rome, from the Albigensian Heresy to controversy within the Church today, The Popes is superbly written, witty and revealing.

The Borgias

The name Borgia is synonymous with the corruption, nepotism, and greed that were rife in Renaissance Italy.

The powerful, voracious Rodrigo Borgia, better known to history as Pope Alexander VI, was the central figure of the dynasty. Two of his seven papal offspring also rose to power and fame - Lucrezia Borgia, his daughter, whose husband was famously murdered by her brother, and that brother, Cesare, who served as the model for Niccolo Machiavelli's The Prince. Notorious for seizing power, wealth, land, and titles through bribery, marriage, and murder, the dynasty's dramatic rise from its Spanish roots to its occupation of the highest position in Renaissance society forms a gripping tale.

Erudite, witty, and always insightful, Hibbert removes the layers of myth around the Borgia family and creates a portrait alive with his superb sense of character and place.

SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome

Ancient Rome matters.

Its history of empire, conquest, cruelty and excess is something against which we still judge ourselves. Its myths and stories - from Romulus and Remus to the Rape of Lucretia - still strike a chord with us. And its debates about citizenship, security and the rights of the individual still influence our own debates on civil liberty today.

SPQR is a new look at Roman history from one of the world's foremost classicists. It explores not only how Rome grew from an insignificant village in central Italy to a power that controlled territory from Spain to Syria, but also how the Romans thought about themselves and their achievements, and why they are still important to us. Covering 1,000 years of history, and casting fresh light on the basics of Roman culture from slavery to running water, as well as exploring democracy, migration, religious controversy, social mobility and exploitation in the larger context of the empire, this is a definitive history of ancient Rome.

SPQR is the Romans' own abbreviation for their state: Senatus Populusque Romanus, 'the Senate and People of Rome'.

The Roman Forum

David Watkin

There are few more historic and evocative places in the world. Caesar was cremated there. Charles V and Mussolini rode by it in triumph. There Napoleon celebrated his festival of liberty. In this radical reappraisal David Watkin teaches us to see the Forum with new eyes and helps us to rediscover its rich history. This is as stimulating to the armchair traveller as it is useful as a guide to the Forum itself.

'With verve, authority and no little humour, Watkin tells the detailed and complex story of this great but mutilated landmark ... it is an almost impossible task, superbly done' Peter Jones, BBC History Magazine

'In this sprightly volume ... the distinguished architectural historian David Watkin charts the shifting fortunes of the site ... he has an engagingly romantic feeling for the place... deploying a good deal of sharp wit, he reveals how the relatively recent obsession with recovering the Forum's classical past has led to much unhappy destruction and much less scarcely happy invention' Matthew Sturgis, Country Life

The Rise and Fall of the House of Medici

At its height Renaissance Florence was a centre of enormous wealth, power and influence. A republican city-state funded by trade and banking, its often bloody political scene was dominated by rich mercantile families, the most famous of which were the Medici. This enthralling book charts the family’s huge influence on the political, economic and cultural history of Florence. Beginning in the early 1430s with the rise of the dynasty under the near-legendary Cosimo de Medici, it moves through their golden era as patrons of some of the most remarkable artists and architects of the Renaissance, to the era of the Medici Popes and Grand Dukes, Florence’s slide into decay and bankruptcy, and the end, in 1737, of the Medici line.

The Black Prince of Florence: The Spectacular Life and Treacherous World of Alessandro de' Medici

Catherine Fletcher

'Nothing in sixteenth-century history is more astonishing than the career of Alessandro de' Medici' Hilary Mantel

In The Black Prince of Florence, a dramatic tale of assassination, spies and betrayal, the first retelling of Alessandro's life in two-hundred years opens a window onto the opulent, cut-throat world of Renaissance Italy.

‘Astonishing … gripping and original … a compelling portrait’ Financial Times

‘Packed with intrigue … Fletcher describes with cool menace the plotting and politicking that dominated Alessandro’s rule … brought splendidly to life in this excellent book’ Sunday Times

‘Engrossing … bursts with stabbings, poisonings, duels, eye-gougings, arquebus shootouts and people being run through with swords. Fletcher’s approach is scholarly yet dramatic, immersed in Renaissance glamour … a tremendous step forward in our knowledge of this intriguing man’ Spectator

‘Scintillating. This is everything a historical biography should be’ Ian Mortimer, author of The Time Traveller's Guide to Medieval England

The year is 1531. After years of brutal war and political intrigue, the bastard son of a Medici Duke and a ‘half-negro’ maidservant rides into Florence. Within a year, he rules the city as its Prince. Backed by the Pope and his future father-in-law the Holy Roman Emperor, the nineteen-year-old Alessandro faces down bloody family rivalry and the scheming hostility of Italy’s oligarchs to reassert the Medicis’ faltering grip on the turbulent city-state. Six years later, as he awaits an adulterous liaison, he will be murdered by his cousin in another man’s bed.

From dazzling palaces and Tuscan villas to the treacherous backstreets of Florence and the corridors of papal power, the story of Alessandro’s spectacular rise, magnificent reign and violent demise takes us deep beneath the surface of power in Renaissance Italy – a glamorous but deadly realm of spies, betrayal and vendetta, illicit sex and fabulous displays of wealth, where the colour of one’s skin meant little but the strength of one’s allegiances meant everything.

‘Bold, breathless and full of suspense’ The Times

‘Original, revelatory and gripping’ Jessie Childs, author of God's Traitors

‘Gripping … Fletcher describes in detail without losing momentum’ Economist

‘Fascinating and profound’ Paul Strathern, author of The Medici

‘Accomplished and original. A newly sympathetic portrait of a monarch whose rule in Florence was even more unlikely than Henry VII’s presence on the English throne’ Diarmaid MacCulloch, author of A History of Christianity

‘Brilliantly written and impeccably researched. A stunning book’ Tracy Borman, author of Thomas Cromwell

The Land Where Lemons Grow: The Story of Italy and its Citrus Fruit

Helena Attlee

Travellers have always been thrilled by the sight of citrus in Italy, where dark leaves and bright fruit seem to charge the landscape, making the trees symbols of a sun-soaked, poetic vision of the country. Citrus also holds a special place in the Italian imagination, and in The Land Where Lemons Grow, Helena Attlee sets out to explore its curious past and its enduring resonance in Italian culture. The Land Where Lemons Grow is a heady mixture of travel writing, history, horticulture and art; a unique journey through Italy's cultural, culinary and political past. Helena Attlee is the author of four books about Italian gardens, and others on the cultural history of gardens around the world. Helena is a Fellow of the Royal Literary Fund and has worked in Italy for nearly 30 years.

The Civilization of the Renaissance in Italy

Jacob Buckhards and Peter Murray

For nineteenth-century Swiss historian Jacob Burckhardt, the Italian Renaissance was nothing less than the beginning of the modern world - a world in which flourishing individualism and the competition for fame radically transformed science, the arts, and politics. In this landmark work he depicts the Italian city-states of Florence, Venice and Rome as providing the seeds of a new form of society, and traces the rise of the creative individual, from Dante to Michelangelo. A fascinating description of an era of cultural transition, this nineteenth-century masterpiece was to become the most influential interpretation of the Italian Renaissance, and anticipated ideas such as Nietzsche's concept of the 'Ubermensch' in its portrayal of an age of genius.

Art in Renaissance Italy

John T. Paoletti and Gary M. Radke

With a freshness and breadth of approach that sets the art in its context, this book explores why works were created and who commissioned the palaces, cathedrals, paintings, and sculptures. It covers Rome and Florence, Venice and the Veneto, Assisi, Siena, Milan, Pavia, Genoa, Padua, Mantua, Verona, Ferrara, Urbino, and Naples. Chapters are grouped into four chronological parts, allowing for a sustained examination of individual cities in different periods. "Contemporary Scene" boxes provide fascinating glimpses of daily life and "Contemporary Voice" boxes quote from painters and writers of the time. Innovative and scholarly, yet accessible and beautifully presented, this book is a definitive work on the Italian Renaissance. This revised edition contains around 200 new pictures and nearly all colour images.

Heritage, culture, history of Italy, cobblestone street Rome

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Unveil the timeless allure of Italy, a land that bridges generations and invites seniors to enjoy life's most exquisite moments. Here’s our comprehensive guide to Italy tours for seniors, each as diverse as the country's captivating landscapes, ensuring you a fantastic experience of this classic travel gem. 

Why is Italy a perfect destination for seniors?

Senior-friendly destinations in italy, tour #1: enchanting italian lakes, tour #2: florence - a trip back in time, tour #3: exploring vatican city and assisi, tour #4: romantic venice, tour #5: treasures of italy: venice, florence and rome, tour #6: wonders of rome and the amalfi coast.

  • Tour #7: Experience the hit TV show 'The White Lotus' in Sicily

Italy tours for seniors without the hassle of planning

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Experience the hit TV show 'The White Lotus' in Sicily

Experience the hit TV show 'The White Lotus' in Sicily

Stay in beautiful Taormina with gorgeous views of Mount Etna and discover Sicily, including famous filming locations. Go on exclusive wine tastings, discover the Greek theater in Taormina with a private guide, visit other Sicilian towns and enjoy the crystal clear water on this week-long trip.

Enchanting Italian Lakes

Enchanting Italian Lakes

Experience the picturesque lakes of Northern Italy, including Lake Garda, Como, Lugano and Maggiore; explore the charming Borromean Islands – former favourites of Ernest Hemingway – and stroll the romantic streets of Verona and Milan. All of this, and much more, with this self-drive trip!

From Venice to Florence: A Grand Tour of Northern Italy

From Venice to Florence: A Grand Tour of Northern Italy

From the atmospheric canals of Venice and the picturesque coastline of Cinque Terre, to the trendy designer boutiques of Milan and the Renaissance-infused streets of Florence, Northern Italy has plenty to offer. Experience it all with this comprehensive trip.

Florence: A Trip Back In Time

Florence: A Trip Back In Time

Florence. A mere mention of the name conjures up grand images of Renaissance romance, awe-inspiring art and astonishing architecture. Come and see for yourself.

Eternal Rome for the Weekend

Eternal Rome for the Weekend

Welcome to this whirlwind tour of Rome, also known as the Eternal City. Rome is one of the most photogenic cities on earth, so make sure you pack your camera.

Wine and food in Tuscany

Wine and food in Tuscany

Stay at a beautiful hotel in San Gimignano, a medieval hill town half way between Florence and Siena. Tuscany is known for its wines and food and that's what you'll be exploring on this itinerary - several wine and food pairings await. All hand-picked by your local travel specialist.

View of the houses on the Spanish Steps © Vladimir Sazonov/Shutterstock

View of the houses on the Spanish Steps © Vladimir Sazonov/Shutterstock

Italy beckons to seniors as the ultimate destination, boasting a wealth of experiences that cater perfectly to their tastes. This country's cultural tapestry is woven with threads of history stretching back millennia. 

The country is a culinary mecca, with mouthwatering pasta, pizza, and gelato to savour, alongside regional specialities. 

What sets Italy apart for seniors is its walkability – exploring charming streets, lively piazzas, and scenic waterfront promenades is a breeze. 

When looking for a tour for seniors, you might want to consider having a local Italy travel expert handle the planning and booking. Our Italy itineraries are completely customisable and can be adjusted to your needs. 

View of Varenna from Lake Como.

View of Varenna from Lake Como © Shutterstock

For seniors looking to explore Italy, there are several destinations that offer a blend of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and ease of access.

Lakes of Italy

The lakes of Italy, including Lake Como , Lake Garda , and Lake Maggiore , are picturesque destinations that provide a tranquil and rejuvenating atmosphere. Seniors can enjoy leisurely boat rides, visit charming lakeside towns, and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. 

Florence , the capital of Tuscany , is a city steeped in history and culture. While it may be known for its world-class art museums, such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery, Florence also offers easily walkable streets, making it accessible for seniors. You can explore iconic landmarks like the Florence Cathedral, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza della Signoria at a relaxed pace.

Venice , with its network of canals, historic architecture, and romantic ambience, is a timeless destination that caters to all ages. Seniors can take leisurely gondola rides, visit St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace, and explore the charming neighbourhoods of Venice. While the city's famous bridges might be challenging for some, there are accessible routes and water taxis available to help seniors navigate this enchanting city.

Rome , the Eternal City, is a treasure trove of ancient history and culture. While it boasts iconic attractions like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the Vatican, it also provides accessibility options for seniors. Many historical sites have wheelchair ramps and accessible entrances, and guided tours can be arranged to make exploring Rome's rich heritage more convenient.

Traveling to Rome? Don't miss the opportunity to choose the best places to stay in the city .

A boat on Lake Garda shore, Italy © travelpeter/Shutterstock

A boat on Lake Garda shore, Italy © travelpeter/Shutterstock

Discover the beautiful lakes of Northern Italy, such as Lake Garda, Como, Lugano, and Maggiore on this 8-day trip of enchanting Italian Lakes . Explore the delightful Borromean Islands, which were once beloved by Ernest Hemingway. Take leisurely walks through the enchanting streets of Verona and Milan. You can enjoy all of these wonderful experiences and more on this self-guided road trip.

Itinerary overview

This itinerary includes a trip to Milan, followed by exploring Lake Garda and its lakeside towns. Then, you'll visit Verona and continue to Lake Como, exploring its highlights, followed by Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore. On the final Day, you'll explore Stresa and the Borromean Islands before departing from Milan. Read more.

View from Milan Cathedral. Royal Palace of Milan © PHOTOCREO Michal Bednarek/Shutterstock

View from Milan Cathedral. Royal Palace of Milan © PHOTOCREO Michal Bednarek/Shutterstock

  • Arrival in Milan
  • Pick up a rental car
  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • Milan City Tour
  • Drive to Lake Garda
  • Stop in Sirmione
  • Explore Lake Garda
  • Visit lakeside towns like Malcesine and Desenzano
  • Enjoy the scenery
  • Drive to Verona
  • City tour in Verona
  • Continue driving to Lake Como
  • Explore Como
  • Visit Piazza Cavour
  • Explore Cortesella (medieval old town)
  • See the Gothic Duomo
  • Optional boat trip to Bellagio
  • Return to Como
  • Explore Lake Lugano
  • Drive to Lake Maggiore
  • Explore Stresa and Borromean Islands
  • Visit Isola Bella with Palazzo Borromeo and English Garden
  • Explore Isola Madre
  • Visit Isola dei Pescatore
  • Check-out from the hotel
  • Scenic drive to Milan International Airport
  • Return the rental car
  • Departure from Milan

santa-maria-del-fiore-duomo-florence-italy-shutterstock_1340862311

Santa Maria del Fiore Duomo in Florence © Shutterstock

Florence, a city steeped in Renaissance history, offers breathtaking art, magnificent architecture, and romantic charm. Here is a delightful, 5-day Florence itinerary for seniors to experience its wonders firsthand.

During this itinerary, you'll arrive in Florence and explore renowned art at the Uffizi Gallery and Michelangelo's David at the Accademia. The following days include visits to historic sites, a private Vasari Corridor tour, and leisure time to explore the city or nearby towns like San Gimignano, Siena, or Pisa before your departure from Florence. Read more .

Uffizi art gallery in Florence, Tuscany, Italy

Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Tuscany, Italy © Shutterstock

  • Arrival in Florence
  • Uffizi Gallery visit
  • Accademia visit to see Michelangelo's David
  • Explore the Vasari Corridor
  • Pass by Ponte Vecchio and Uffizi Gallery
  • Private group tour of Vasari Corridor
  • Afternoon tour of Palazzo Vecchio
  • Explore medieval Florence: visit Casa di Dante, Piazza del Duomo, Badia Fiorentina, and Dante’s favourite church
  • Walking tour of Florence’s architecture: visit the Baptistery, explore the Gates to Paradise & Admire the Baptistery's mosaics
  • Return to Grand Hotel Cavour
  • Leisure Day in Florence
  • Free time to explore the city or take a day trip to San Gimignano, Siena, or Pisa
  • Enjoy a 3-course meal at a local restaurant
  • Departure from Florence

Piazza San Pietro in Vatican City © Shutterstock

Piazza San Pietro in Vatican City © Shutterstock

Indulge in the rich history of Ancient Rome during this leisurely Vatican & Assisi itinerary . Explore iconic landmarks such as the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum, and St. Peter's Basilica, then continue your journey to the tranquil retreat of St. Francis of Assisi at Eremo delle Carceri.

This itinerary begins with your arrival in Rome, where you'll embark on a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. 

Day 3 explores Ancient Rome with visits to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, while 

Day 4 involves a transfer to Assisi with stops at Tivoli waterfalls and Orvieto Cathedral. The trip concludes on Day 5 with a full-day tour of Assisi before departing from Rome airport for your flight home. Read more .

assisi-italy-shutterstock_303283805

View of Assisi © Shutterstock

  • Arrival in Rome
  • Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica
  • Guided tour of Vatican Museums
  • Explore the Gallery of Tapestries and Geographical Maps
  • Visit the Sistine Chapel
  • End the tour at St. Peter's Basilica
  • Explore Ancient Rome
  • Visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill
  • Walk along the Via Sacra
  • Transfer from Rome to Assisi
  • Stop at Tivoli Waterfalls
  • Visit Orvieto cathedral
  • Full-day tour of Assisi
  • Visit Eremo delle Carceri
  • Explore the sacred monument
  • Relaxing Day of sightseeing in Assisi
  • Transfer from Assisi to Rome airport
  • Departure for your flight home

Feeling the wanderlust? Don't delay, book your trip today .

The Canals of Venice, in Italy © Shutterstock

The Canals of Venice, in Italy © Shutterstock

Embark on a charming weekend escape in Venice , a city known for its romance and timeless allure. This senior-friendly excursion offers a leisurely walking tour that unveils Venice's rich history, art, and architecture, along with a relaxing gondola ride. Plus, you'll have ample free time to meander through the enchanting streets of this captivating city.

Upon arriving in Venice, you'll have free time to explore, followed by a comprehensive private walking tour on Day 2, covering iconic landmarks and districts. 

Day 3 offers a gondola ride and leisure time. On Day 4, you'll check out from your hotel and transfer to Marco Polo International Airport for your departure flight. Read more .

St. Mark's Basilica and St.Mark's Campanile above the San Marco square in Venice © Shutterstock

St. Mark's Basilica and St.Mark's Campanile above the San Marco square in Venice © Shutterstock

  • Arrival in Venice
  • Free time to explore 
  • Private Venice Walking Tour
  • Explore Saint Mark’s area
  • Visit The Doges’ Palace, Square, and Basilica
  • Explore San Zaccaria
  • Enjoy the lagoon breeze
  • Pass by San Michele and Murano islands
  • Discover the Cannaregio district
  • Walk back to Rialto
  • Visit the former house of Marco Polo and Fontego dei Tedeschi
  • Tour ends at Rialto bridge
  • 30-minute gondola ride
  • Afternoon leisure time to explore Venice
  • Three-course dinner at a centrally located restaurant
  • Check-out from hotel
  • Transfer to Marco Polo International Airport for departure flight

Rome from above aerial view of the Roman Forum and the Colosseum © Calin Stan/Shutterstock

Rome from above aerial view of the Roman Forum and the Colosseum © Calin Stan/Shutterstock

Explore Italy's top three cities, each with its own distinct charm, as you embark on a captivating 9 day itinerary of Florence, Rome and Venice tailored for seniors. From the picturesque canals of Venice to the Renaissance-filled streets of Florence and the historic wonders of Rome, this trip offers an unmissable adventure.

This itinerary includes arrival in Venice with free time, followed by a private guided tour of Venice's major landmarks and a boat ride on Day 2. 

Then, you'll explore Murano, Burano, and Torcello, and travel to Florence for guided tours and free time.

From there you’ll take an excursion to Pisa and Lucca, journey to Rome, and have guided tours of Rome and the Vatican. The trip ends with a free Day in Rome before departing from the airport on Day 9. Read more .

Venice landmark, Burano island canal, colorful houses and boats, Italy © StevanZZ/Shutterstock

Burano island canal, Venice, Italy © StevanZZ/Shutterstock

  • Free time to explore
  • Private guided tour of Venice
  • Visit St. Mark's Basilica, Loggia dei Cavalli, Doges Palace, and more
  • 1-hour boat ride along Venice's major canals
  • Private boat tour to Murano, Burano, and Torcello
  • Explore glass-making in Murano, lace in Burano, and the history of Torcello
  • Train to Florence
  • Free evening in Florence
  • Private guided tour of Florence
  • Visit the Duomo, Piazza della Repubblica, Santo Spirito Church, Pitti Palace, and more
  • Explore Oltrarno and see one of Michelangelo's early works
  • Excursion to Pisa and Lucca
  • Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa and explore Lucca
  • Return to Florence
  • Train to Rome
  • Guided tour of Rome
  • Explore the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and more
  • Free evening in Rome
  • Guided tour of the Vatican
  • Explore the Apostolic Palace, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and St. Peter’s Square
  • Free Day to explore Rome at leisure
  • Transfer to the airport for the departure flight

Is this trip calling your name? Don't wait, book it today .

Cetara, Amalfi Coast © Shutterstock

Cetara, Amalfi Coast © Shutterstock

From the winding streets of Rome to the picturesque houses overlooking the Sorrento Peninsula, Italy's allure and sophistication await you on this exclusive journey designed with seniors in mind. 

On this 8-day Rome & Amalfi Coast itinerary , discover the beauty of both iconic destinations, with spectacular sites and awe-inspiring views that promise an unforgettable experience.

This itinerary starts with an exploration of Rome's iconic landmarks and Vatican City. It then continues with a historical tour of Naples, a boat trip to Capri, a visit to Pompeii, and a scenic road trip along the Amalfi Coast. The trip concludes with a transfer to Naples Airport for departure on Day 8. Read more .

naples-italy-shutterstock_211433854

Naples, Italy © Shutterstock

  • Arrival at Rome International Airport
  • Afternoon hop-on, hop-off bus tour of Rome
  • Explore famous landmarks like the Colosseum, Forum, and Vatican City
  • Tour of Rome's fountains and Vatican City
  • Visit the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and more
  • Lunch in a typical Italian restaurant
  • Explore Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel
  • See St. Peter's Basilica and Michelangelo's "La Pietà"
  • Visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Venice Square
  • Explore the historic centre of Rome
  • Admire the architecture and monuments
  • Transfer to Rome train station
  • Train to Naples
  • Full-day historical tour of Naples
  • Visit San Gennaro Cathedral, Gothic churches, and Santa Chiara Convent
  • Explore Port’ Alba and enjoy pizza for lunch
  • Explore Capri Island by boat
  • Swim in beautiful coves and visit famous caves
  • Discover Anacapri and its historical significance
  • Private half-day tour to Pompeii
  • Explore the ancient city preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius
  • Return to Sorrento and enjoy the afternoon at leisure
  • Full-day road trip along the stunning Amalfi Coast
  • Stops at Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello
  • Explore colourful towns and enjoy breathtaking views
  • Transfer to Naples Airport
  • Departure for your flight

The stage of Taormina's Greek Theater with the Etna in the background, Taormina, Sicily ©  K. Roy Zerloch/Shutterstock

Taormina, Sicily ©  K. Roy Zerloch/Shutterstock

Tour #7: Experience the hit TV show 'The White Lotus' in Sicily

Indulge in a delightful week-long getaway for seniors , nestled in the picturesque town of Taormina with stunning views of Mount Etna. Immerse yourself in the charm of Sicily, including famous filming locations, with exclusive wine tastings, visits to other charming Sicilian towns, and leisurely moments by the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.

This itinerary begins with your arrival at Catania Airport, followed by leisure time to explore Taormina. It includes relaxation on Taormina's beaches, and an optional Etna volcano climb.

Enjoy Italian delights with a wine tasting at Planeta Sciaranuova Winery, a private walking tour of Taormina, and a full-day tour to Noto and Marzamemi. On Day 6, you'll have a market tour and a cooking class, while Day 7 is another leisure Day in Taormina before departing from Sicily on Day 8. Read more .

mount-etna-shutterstock_405035131

Mount Etna © Shutterstock

  • Arrival at Catania Airport
  • Private transfer to Taormina
  • Leisure time to explore Taormina
  • Full Day at leisure to relax on Taormina's crystal-clear beaches
  • Free morning for optional Etna volcano climb (weather permitting)
  • Afternoon wine tasting at Planeta Sciaranuova Winery
  • Vineyard visit, wine tasting, olive oil tasting, aperitif, and lunch
  • Private walking tour of Taormina with a professional guide
  • Explore the Ancient Greek Theater with stunning views
  • Private full-day tour to Noto and Marzamemi
  • Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Noto
  • Visit the charming and colourful village of Marzamemi
  • Guided market tour showcasing Sicilian foods
  • Hands-on cooking class with a Sicilian chef
  • Prepare a full Sicilian menu and enjoy lunch with local wines
  • Second Day at leisure in Taormina
  • Explore independently, shop for souvenirs, or relax
  • Transfer to the airport for departure from Sicily

 Allow our team of local Italy travel experts to curate your dream trip to Italy. When you're ready to embark on your adventure, reach out to us , and we'll fashion a personalized itinerary just for you. 

You can modify it to your heart's content until it satisfies every aspect of your booking. Feel free to browse our pre-designed Italy itineraries for ideas, and remember that all can be tailored to meet your specific needs.

The Rough Guides to Italy and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Pocket Rough Guide Rome

Travel advice for Italy

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Italy

  • Eating and drinking in Italy
  • How to get to Italy
  • Getting around Italy: Transportation Tips
  • Shopping tips for Italy
  • Sports and Outdoor activities in Italy
  • Travel Tips Italy for planning and on the go
  • Best time to visit Italy
  • How to spend 7 days In Italy - 8 unique itineraries
  • The Best 10-Day Italy Travel Itinerary
  • How To Spend 14 Days In Italy - 5 Unique Itineraries
  • How to get from Rome to Florence

Find even more inspiration for Italy here

Piazza San Marco in Venice with Gondola

written by Dre Roelandt

updated 19.03.2024

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Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Senior Content Editor at Rough Guides.

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The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy

Trento, Italy

Are you a senior looking for a memorable travel experience to Italy that caters to your unique needs and interests? Look no further! We've curated a selection of exceptional organized and all-inclusive tours designed specifically for seniors, ensuring an engaging, fun, and hassle-free journey through Italy. Rest assured, we've analyzed all the tours from highly reviewed companies, considering important factors like price, activity level, guest ratings, service, quality, captivating destinations, and tailored activities. Get ready to embark on an incredible adventure that combines the joys of travel with the comfort and convenience you deserve. Let's dive into the possibilities and find the perfect tour for you!

It's hard to find another country as proud of its heritage, culture, and history. In Italy, all of these are mixed together as the historical architecture and cuisine are constant reminders of the rich history and artistic contributions throughout the centuries. From the ancient Roman civilization up to the Renaissance to modern times, it's all on display here in the cities and the countryside.

  • Classic Sicily - 8 Days/7 Nights 8 Days, $2195.00
  • 4 Days Tuscany Tour - from Rome 4 Days, $1593.97
  • Essential Europe 9 Days, $3449.00

What do seniors tours offer in Italy?

Italy

Here are the important factors:

  • 317 trip options analyzed
  • $327 average price per day (USD)
  • 3 to 17 days in length
  • 4.58 of 5 average rating
  • 27 people or less on average

You'll be surprised at the array of tours for seniors in Italy, as there is something for everyone. It's no wonder that visitors can't get enough of these tours, boasting an impressive average guest rating of 4.58 out of 5 stars. Picture yourself joining a group of like-minded adventurers, with an average maximum size of 27 people, ensuring a fantastic blend of social and personalized experiences. The average tour length spans 9 days, with tours ranging from 3 to 17 days long. Regarding physical activity , the tours are categorized as easy, moderate, and relaxing, with the majority being easy. As for transportation options, the tours are thoughtfully categorized as coach / bus, train & rail, and self drive, with the most being coach / bus. With our thorough analysis of 317 tours for seniors, we've found the best. So rest assured that Italy has something to captivate every kind of traveler.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best Tours for Seniors in Italy

Classic sicily - 8 days/7 nights.

  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for tours for seniors.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

star

This fantastic trip has a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. This trip visits 7 destinations, including Taormina, Mount Etna, Messina, and Trapani along the way. Your adventure starts and ends in Palermo. With an emphasis on local culture, museums, family-friendly activities, and religious sites, you know you'll have an amazing adventure. Lasting 8 days, the maximum group size is 44 people, and it's good for guests age 8 and older. Organized by CIE Tours , this is a great deal because it's only $237 per day.

  • Sightseeing
  • In-depth Cultural
  • Local Guide
  • Religious Sites

4 Days Tuscany Tour - from Rome

With a stellar 5 out of 5 rating, this extraordinary journey is the perfect choice. And since the priority is on local culture and family-friendly activities, this tour is a great choice. Experience a trip that takes you to 12 remarkable destinations, including San Gimignano, Volterra, Radda in Chianti, and Greve in Chianti. Rome will be the beginning and end of your trip. Spanning across 4 days, the journey accommodates 15 individuals, and is suitable for guests age 4 to 80. Offered by Europeando Europa , this remarkable journey is priced at just $398 per day. Don't miss out on this incredible experience.

  • Coach / Bus

Essential Europe

This exceptional trip offering by Globus has received a 5 out of 5 rating. On this 9-day journey, visiting Italy, Switzerland, and France, you can unwind while also making new memories. Explore 7 incredible locations on this trip, including Basel, Florence, Venice, and Bellinzona. Your journey starts off in Rome and finishes in Paris. With a group size of 50 people, it's suitable for guests age 8 to 80. Rest assured, this trip is all about local culture and family-friendly activities, guaranteeing an unforgettable adventure. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $383 per day.

Learn Italian, Food & Culture in Abruzzo

Check out this voyage that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 5 out of 5 rating. You'll enjoy sightseeing and cooking classes. Discover a journey that spans 4 destinations, with notable stops in Vasto and Roccascalegna. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Rome. This extraordinary adventure also revolves around language courses and wine tasting. Spanning across 7 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 12 participants, and it's great for guests age 14 to 85. Brought to you by the renowned Italia Sweet Italia , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $334 per day - an unbeatable value.

  • Language course
  • Wine tasting
  • Cooking classes
  • Local Living

Italian Escape (5 destinations)

This 7-day journey is ideal for guests age 8 to 80. And priced at only $250 per day, it's a great value, too. This terrific trip also highights local culture and family-friendly activities. This trip takes you on an adventure to 5 destinations, including Assisi, Florence, and Pisa. Begin your trip in Rome and complete it with a memorable finale in Venice. It's offered by Globus , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

Sicilian Escape (6 destinations)

Priced at just $186 per day, this terrific 7-day journey is ideal for guests age 5 to 80. With 6 destinations to explore, you'll get the chance to see Piazza Armerina, Syracuse, Catania, and Agrigento, and more. Your journey starts off in Palermo and finishes in Taormina. Organized by the reputable Globus , this is one of the best tours on this list.

Puglia: Discover the Heel of Italy - Reverse

star

Check out this incredible voyage that has received a 3.8 out of 5 rating from previous guests. You'll love the emphasis on local culture, museums, and religious sites, too. With a duration of 8 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 16 people, and is good for guests age 16 to 80. Along the way, this journey encompasses 4 destinations, including Ostuni and Alberobello. Your journey will begin in Lecce and end in Matera. This fantastic option, organized by Exodus Adventure Travels , presents an unbeatable value at just $337 per day.

Italian Expresso - 5 days

  • On Sale: 25% Off See Prices

Spanning over 5 days, this trip has a maximum size of 50 individuals. Welcoming guests age 5 and older, it is organized by On The Go Tours , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. This itinerary covers 9 captivating destinations, with stops in Venice, Tuscany, Assisi, and Siena, among others. Your adventure starts and ends in Rome. With an emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities, you know you'll have an amazing adventure. Available at an unbeatable price of only $179 per day, this option also has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from previous guests. Take advantage of the current sale and secure your spot today!

Secrets of Puglia

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional trip that has garnered a 5 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 9 days, this jouney will have 18 participants, and it warmly welcomes guests age 18 to 80. And since the priority is on local culture and local cuisine, this tour is a great choice. Expertly organized by Blue-Roads Touring , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $378 per day.

  • Food & Culinary

Summer in Sorrento Deluxe

This memorable voyage is offered by Wherever Tours which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 5 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $363 per day. Uncover the beauty of 5 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Pompeii, Naples, and Amalfi. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Sorrento. The maximum group size is 25 people, welcoming guests age 18 to 90.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Italy , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy , The Best Historical Tours in Italy , The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy , The Best 3-Day Tours in Italy , The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy , The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Italy , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy , The Best Adventure Tours to Italy , The Best Eco Tours in Italy , The Best Train & Rail Tours in Italy , The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in Italy , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy , The Best Cultural Tours in Italy , The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy , The Best Music Tours in Italy , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy , The Best Self Drive Tours in Italy , The Best Walking Tours in Italy , The Best Tours Under $1000 in Italy , The Best Luxury Tours to Italy , The Best Budget Tours to Italy , The Best Contiki Tours to Italy , or The Best G Adventures Tours to Italy for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Rome , The Best 3-Day Tours from Florence , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Catania , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Venice , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Florence , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Milan , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Naples , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bari , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Palermo , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Olbia , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bolzano , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Merano , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Pisa , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Cagliari , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bologna , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Montecatini , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Turin , The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome , The Best 10-Day Tours from Palermo , The Best 10-Day Tours from Venice , The Best 10-Day Tours from Catania , The Best 10-Day Tours from Milan , The Best 10-Day Tours from Naples , The Best 2-Week Tours from Rome , The Best 2-Week Tours from Venice , The Best 2-Week Tours from Milan , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Palermo for more package tour options.

How much do tours for seniors cost in Italy?

Visitors will find a large range of terrific options for tours for seniors when planning a visit to Italy. The price of these specific trips can vary according to length, destinations, and travel style. The average price of tours for seniors in Italy based on data from 317 options is an affordable $327 per day. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Italy .

And for more information on Italy, see Italy Travel Costs and Italy Hotel Costs .

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Italoblog » Travel ideas » Senior Citizen Travel in Italy: The Best Tours in Italy for the Over 60s

Senior Citizen Travel in Italy: The Best Tours in Italy for the Over 60s

Mature couples looking around old town Italy as evening draws in. They walk down a narrow street while on holiday. Little lights can be seen outside of the buildings

From leisurely train journeys across the country’s varied landscapes to tailor-made tours that consider every aspect of accessibility, Italy is an inviting destination for seniors. With thoughtful planning and the right resources, elderly travellers can enjoy the splendour of Italy comfortably and safely.

Train Travel in Italy for Senior Citizens

Best tours of italy for senior citizens, travelling to italy with the elderly.

Italy offers a wealth of experiences that people of any age can enjoy, from stunning landscapes and rich history to world-renowned cuisine. If you’re over 60, travelling in Italy can be a delightfully accessible and enriching experience . Specialised tours and travel options make it easy to explore this beautiful country with comfort and ease. Here’s how senior citizens can make the most of their Italian getaway.

Senior Citizen Train Discount

Travelling by train is one of the most convenient and scenic ways to explore Italy. It’s also cost-effective for senior citizens thanks to discounts offered by Italian rail services. Italo, a high-speed rail operator, provides an offer called “Italo Senior” which is available to all passengers aged 60 and over . This offer provides a significant reduction on train tickets, including high-speed rail, making it an excellent option for senior citizens who want to explore the different regions of Italy. The offer includes a discount between 40% and 60% for Smart class and Prima class . Tickets can be purchased up to 5 days before the scheduled departure date.

senior travel tours to italy

Senior Citizen-Friendly Activities

For older people interested in experiencing Italy’s traditional culture and history without the stress of planning every detail, there are numerous senior citizen-friendly tours available . These often include guided visits to major attractions like the Vatican Museums, the Colosseum and the Uffizi Gallery, with skip-the-line access , reducing wait times and physical discomfort.

Many tour companies also offer itineraries tailored to a slower pace, with plenty of rest breaks and comfortable accommodation. Wine-tasting tours in Tuscany, cooking classes in Bologna and river cruises on the Po are just a few examples of the leisurely yet engaging activities you could try. 

Relaxing Activities

Gardens boboli seen from the square Michelangelo, Florence Italy

  • Spa and wellness: Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and wellness activities in luxurious resorts or historic thermal baths.
  • Beach relaxation : Enjoy the sun, sea and sand at popular beach destinations such as the Amalfi Coast or Sardinia.
  • Garden visits: Explore beautiful Italian gardens, like the Boboli Gardens in Florence or Villa d’Este in Tivoli.

Choose Italo for your train travel to Florence

Cultural Experiences

  • Museum hopping: Visit world-class museums and art galleries in cities such as Rome, Florence and Venice.
  • Historic walking tours: Discover the history of Italian cities on a guided walking tour.
  • Opera and theatre : Enjoy a night out at the opera or theatre in Milan, Rome or Naples.

Buy train tickets from Milan to Naples on Italotreno.com

La Scala Opera House, Milan, Lombardy, Italy

Outdoor Adventures

  • Scenic drives: Take a leisurely drive through the Italian countryside, stopping at picturesque villages and vineyards.
  • Boat tours: Explore the beautiful Italian coastline and islands on a boat tour.
  • Hiking: Enjoy gentle hikes in national parks and nature reserves.

Culinary Delights

  • Cooking classes : Learn to prepare traditional Italian dishes in cookery classes in Bologna.
  • Wine tasting : Sample delicious Italian wines in vineyards and wine cellars.
  • Food markets : Explore local markets and sample fresh produce, cheeses and cured meats.

Book train tickets from and to Bologna with Italo

An aerial view of the medieval city of Bologna.

Italy Tours for Senior Citizens with Limited Mobility

Travelling with limited mobility can be challenging. However, many Italian tour operators specialise in creating accessible itineraries that cater to seniors with mobility needs . These tours consider the accessibility of hotels, transport and attractions to ensure they are suitable for wheelchairs and walkers.

Free or reduced admission: Many tourist attractions, museums, national parks and archaeological sites offer free or discounted admission for people with disabilities and their companions.

Assistance: Specific assistance is often available, such as the use of wheelchairs or the accompaniment of qualified staff.

Additional services: Some locations offer extra services, such as accessible audio guides, tactile paths or information panels in Braille.

How to Get a Discount:

  • Present your disability document: To take advantage of the above benefits, you’ll usually need to show a document certifying your disability, such as a certificate issued by your local health authority.
  • Make a reservation: In some cases, it’s advisable to book in advance to ensure the availability of services and benefits.
  • Contact the attractions directly: For detailed information on the discounts offered, it’s always best to contact the individual tourist attractions directly.

feasible 2 weeks travel italian itinerary by train

14-day itinerary in Italy by train

Read our ambitious but totally doable two-week rail travel itinerary, designed to immerse you in the historical and gastronomic culture of Italy.

Cities like Florence and Rome have made significant improvements in accessibility in recent years. For instance, major landmarks such as Vatican City have installed ramps and lifts to accommodate visitors who cannot climb steps. Similarly, the Venice public vaporettos (water buses) are equipped with ramps, making it possible to explore the city’s famous canals with ease.Moreover, some tour operators offer private tours with adapted vehicles , ensuring transportation is not a barrier to enjoying Italy’s sights . These tours often come with guides who are trained to assist older travellers and those with limited mobility, providing a stress-free and rewarding travel experience.

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senior travel tours to italy

7 Small Group Tours of Italy for Over 50s

Dreaming of the captivating landscapes, rich history, and timeless cultural treasures of Italy? With a focus on quality, camaraderie, and ease of exploration, small group tours cater well to the unique interests and preferences of mature travelers.

  • 10-Day Northern Italy Tour – Embark on a 10-day culturally rich adventure through Northern Italy, exploring historic cities, iconic landmarks, and the region’s artistic treasures.
  • Lakes & Lagoon, Como, Lake Garda & Venice – Uncover the cultural treasures of Northern Italy in a captivating 6-day tour, exploring historic cities, scenic landscapes, and iconic landmarks.
  • 8-Day Foodie Tour Of Northern Italy – The 8-Day Foodie Tour of Northern Italy by Flag Travel Holidays is a culinary journey starting in Bologna, the gastronomic capital of Europe.
  • Highlights of Italy – See the enchanting beauty of Italy, from the picturesque coastal pathways and pastel villages of Cinque Terre to the mesmerizing canals of Venice, the culinary delights of Florence, and the historic landmarks of Rome.
  • Tour of Sicily: Highlights – Explore the best of Sicily’s photogenic towns, stunning landscapes, and rich history during this captivating 7-day tour, including a Godfather vs. Mafia tour, Mount Etna visit, wine tasting, and walking tours of Taormina, Syracuse, and Palermo.
  • Premium Tuscany – Experience an eight-day Premium adventure through the warmth and richness of Italian culture, from Rome to Venice, exploring iconic landmarks, rustic Tuscany, and culinary delights.
  • Enchanting Southern Italy – The Enchanting Southern Italy tour by Back-Roads Touring is an 8-day journey through the historic and beautiful regions of Southern Italy.

Walk the enchanting streets of Rome, savor the culinary delights of Tuscany, immerse yourself in the art and history of Florence, and revel in the romantic charm of Venice. Go on an unforgettable Italian odyssey, where every moment is curated to provide an enriching journey.

How to Choose a Travel Tour Company

Choosing a travel tour company requires careful consideration to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Research and Compare

Start by researching different travel tour companies online. Compare their itineraries, destinations, group sizes, inclusions, and prices to find the best fit for your preferences and budget.

Read Reviews

Check customer reviews and testimonials to gauge the company’s reputation and customer satisfaction. Look for reviews on multiple platforms to get a well-rounded perspective.

Accreditation and Licenses

Ensure the tour company is accredited and licensed, adhering to industry standards and regulations. Look for affiliations with reputable travel organizations.

Review the tour itinerary in detail. Ensure it covers the places and activities you’re interested in. Check if there’s a good balance of sightseeing, free time, and optional activities.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Pay attention to what’s included in the tour package (e.g., accommodation, meals, transportation, guided tours) and what’s not. Be clear about additional costs.

Tour Leaders/Guides

Check the qualifications and experience of tour leaders or guides. Experienced and knowledgeable guides can greatly enhance your travel experience.

Special Interests and Themes

Some companies offer tours based on specific interests (e.g., culinary, adventure, history). Choose a company that aligns with your interests.

By considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you’ll be better equipped to choose a travel tour company that suits your preferences and ensures a memorable travel experience.

The Benefits of a Small Group Tour

Small group tours offer several benefits that can greatly enhance your travel experience.

Personalized Attention

With fewer travelers in the group, you’ll receive more personalized attention from the tour guide. This allows for better interaction, the ability to ask questions, and a more tailored experience.

Flexibility

Small group tours are often more flexible, allowing for spontaneous detours, additional stops, and adjustments to the itinerary based on the group’s interests and preferences.

Less Waiting Time

Smaller groups are easier to manage, reducing waiting times at attractions, restaurants, and transportation, allowing you to make the most of your time.

Camaraderie

Traveling with a small group fosters a sense of camaraderie and facilitates the opportunity to make lasting connections with like-minded travelers.

Access to Unique Locations

Small groups can access places that larger tours may not be able to reach, providing opportunities to explore hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path locations.

Enhanced Cultural Experiences

Interacting with locals and immersing in the local culture is often more feasible in a small group setting, allowing for more authentic experiences.

Better Accommodation Options

Smaller groups can often stay in boutique hotels or unique accommodations that may not be suitable for larger tour groups.

Focus on Quality

Tour operators leading small group tours often focus on quality over quantity, ensuring a more intimate and enriching experience for travelers.

Small Group Tours of Italy Perfect for Over 50s

Northern italy tour.

Northern Italy Tour

  • Max Group: 18
  • From Rome to Florence
  • Tour Operator: Adventures Abroad

Experience the best of Northern Italy in 10 remarkable days on this culturally rich adventure. Starting in Rome, a city steeped in history and iconic landmarks, you’ll explore ancient centers, Michelangelo-designed plazas, Roman fora, and the awe-inspiring Colosseum. Your trip continues to Vatican City, the world’s smallest independent nation, where you’ll discover its treasures.

Next, you’ll travel into the enchanting Siena region, renowned for its fine wines and Old World charm, before heading to Pisa, famous for its iconic Leaning Tower. The grand finale awaits in Florence, the city of art and culture, where you’ll immerse yourself in its beauty.

This 10-day tour may appear short on paper, but its abundance of highlights will make it feel like a truly enriching and extended experience.

Lakes & Lagoon, Como, Lake Garda & Venice

Lakes & Lagoon, Como, Lake Garda & Venice

  • Max Group: 6
  • From Milan to Venice
  • Tour Operator: Taotravel

Explore Como’s historical gems and take a funicular ride to Brunate for stunning views. See Brescia’s cultural attractions before heading to Lake Garda and Desenzano.

Visit Verona and Padua, known as the “city of St. Anthony,” and end with a memorable tour of Venice, featuring iconic landmarks.

Each day concludes with delicious dinners and comfortable overnight stays. This captivating tour promises a blend of history, art, and scenic beauty, creating unique memories of Northern Italy’s treasures.

8-Day Foodie Tour of Northern Italy

senior travel tours to italy

  • From Bologna to Alba
  • Tour Operator: Flag Travel Holidays

The 8-Day Foodie Tour of Northern Italy by Flag Travel Holidays is a culinary journey starting in Bologna, the gastronomic capital of Europe. 

Highlights include a cooking class in Bologna, a visit to a traditional balsamic vinegar cellar in Modena, Parmigiano cheese tasting in Parma, truffle hunting in Alba, and wine tastings in the renowned Barolo region. The tour also includes exploring the cities of Pavia and Turin, with visits to the Ferrari Museum, local markets, and historical sites.

Highlights of Italy

Highlights of Italy

  • Max Group: 16
  • From Venice to Rome
  • Tour Operator: Intrepid Travel

Start this enchanting journey through Italy with a Cinque Terre day pass to explore coastal pathways and colorful villages at your own pace.

Get lost in the maze of Venice’s alleys, canals, and islands, with the option for a gondola ride. Spend two days in Florence, relishing its beauty and Tuscan cuisine on optional food excursions. Indulge in Italy’s intoxicating food culture, from squid ink spaghetti to rich Tuscan soups. In Rome, visit iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Arch of Constantine, and the Pantheon.

Tour of Sicily: Highlights

Tour of Sicily: Highlights

  • Max Group: 8
  • From Catania to Palermo
  • Tour Operator: Sicily Activities

Embark on a captivating 8-day tour through Sicily’s picturesque towns and stunning landscapes. Start with a Godfather vs. Mafia tour, exploring Savoca and Forza d’Agro, followed by a Taormina walking tour and visit to the Greek Theatre.

Experience the majestic Mount Etna with a cable car ascent and enjoy wine tasting at a panoramic winery. Discover Noto and Marzamemi, indulge in Syracuse’s charm, and explore the ancient Temple Valley in Agrigento.

End the voyage with walking tours of Ortigia and Palermo, immersing yourself in the rich culture and history of this fascinating region.

Premium Tuscany

Premium Tuscany

  • Max Group: 12
  • From Rome to Venice

Go on an unforgettable eight-day Premium adventure from Rome to Venice, absorbing yourself in the warmth and richness of Italian culture. Traverse the rustic heart of Tuscany, indulging in culinary delights and discovering hidden treasures amidst the rolling countryside.

With an expert local leader, explore the iconic Piazza San Marco in Venice, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and Rome’s Colosseum. From ancient monuments to lively cities, sprawling vineyards, and traditional Tuscan cuisine, this journey caters to both Italian novices and maestros.

Enchanting Southern Italy

senior travel tours to italy

  • Southern Italy
  • Tour Operator: Back Roads Touring

The Enchanting Southern Italy tour by Back-Roads Touring is an 8-day journey through the historic and beautiful regions of Southern Italy. Starting in Naples, the tour includes visits to Pompeii, Paestum, the Amalfi Coast, and the island of Capri. 

Highlights include exploring ancient ruins, tasting local delicacies like mozzarella and limoncello, and visiting the Royal Palace of Caserta. The tour features guided tours, local culinary experiences, and accommodation in charming hotels, providing an immersive cultural experience.

Read 6 REASONS WHY ITALY TICKS EVERY BOX FOR TRAVELLERS OVER 60 .

Also read 6 OF THE MOST CHARMING VILLAGES AND SMALL TOWNS IN ITALY .

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you been to Italy? Is it on your bucket list of places you want to visit? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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Tags Travel Tips and Plans

Sandra Roussy

Sandra Roussy

Sandra is the middle-aged woman you hear about who sheds everything she owns and sets out into the world to rediscover and redefine herself. After more than twenty years spent in the fashion industry designing collections for brands such as La Senza, Victoria’s Secret, and JACOB Lingerie, she shifted her path and pursued her longtime passion for writing, traveling, and photography. Sandra was published in the NY Times best selling book Eat Pray Love Made Me Do It. A deeply personal essay hand-picked by Elizabeth Gilbert about loss, facing fears, and going after dreams. Visit her website: www.sandraroussy.com

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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!

Explore More

Destination must-see's.

Italy ms1

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.

Italy ms2

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.

Italy ms3

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!

Italy ms4

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

Must Do Sicilian Street Food Cannoli

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.

Italy md1

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.

Italy md3

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.

Italy md4

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

diana

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).

Italy e3

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senior travel tours to italy

South Italy Tours for Seniors

South Italy Tours for Seniors

  • Choose from 200+ South Italy tours
  • 3,100+ verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
  • 24/7 customer support

10 best trips for 'over 50s' in South Italy

Compiled by

South Italy travel expert at TourRadar

Steff South Italy travel expert at TourRadar

Discovering Amalfi Coast

Sorrento escape, private tour, splendid tour (5 days/4 nights), sicilian landscapes: catania-catania (8 days/7 nights), small group sicily food & wine tour (maximum 8 guests), local living italy—sorrento, splendor of sicily 8 days tour - from catania, taste of salento-authentic culinary experience, small group tour of sicily: highlights (maximum 8 guests), flavors of italy & amalfi coast.

“They said they were amazing and a great tour. They said they highly recommend tour radar as they have such a good experience.” Hon Kwan Roseline Pang, traveled in April 2024

Discovering Amalfi Coast

  • Sightseeing
  • Relax on your first day at stunning Amalfi
  • Cruise around Capri and its famous grottos
  • Shop and stroll in Amalfi before departure
“The local company in Italy, Tui italia, was is fantastic. Everything was terrific!” Lori Korwin, traveled in April 2024

Sorrento Escape, Private Tour

  • In-depth Cultural
  • Take a cooking class at Fattoria Terranova
  • Drive through the scenic Amalfi Coast
  • Relax on a sunset boat tour around Capri
“Well organized from the moment we met to the day we came back. Excellent excursion.” walter Jankun, traveled in October 2022

Splendid Tour (5 days/4 nights)

  • Sail to Capri and swim in crystal-clear waters
  • Spend a day at leisure on the stunning Amalfi Coast
  • Explore ancient Pompeii with a local guide
“It was one of the best tours I have ever been on. It was jam packed with excursions every day.” Angela Liistro, traveled in September 2022

Sicilian Landscapes: Catania-Catania (8 days/7 nights)

  • Coach / Bus
  • Taste Marsala wine and explore salt marshes
  • Explore Catania's historic city center
  • Tour the Archaeological Park of Neapolis
“This was the first tour I've taken after years of traveling. The wineries we visited were beautiful and the wines were excellent.” Helane Rappaport, traveled in October 2023

Small Group Sicily Food & Wine Tour (Maximum 8 Guests)

  • Food & Culinary
  • Wine tasting
  • Discover the very best of Sicily through its rich cuisine and colourful street food
  • Taste the best Sicilian wines and learn the secrets of how it is produced
  • Delve into culture and learn cooking tricks in typical Sicilian family trattoria
“The accommodation, meals and staff at the farm were amazing. The sailing around Capri is one of the best experiences we have ever had.” Kristin McKay, traveled in August 2023

Local Living Italy—Sorrento

  • Local Living
  • Christmas & New Year
  • Explore Naples with a unique migrant tour
  • Sail to Capri and enjoy its beauty
  • Learn pizza making at a lemon farm
“Everything is good. Mr. Omar help me a lot.” Shi Weidong, traveled in May 2023

Splendor of Sicily 8 Days Tour - from Catania

  • Admire the remarkable Martorana Cathedral in Palermo
  • Soak up the vibes of Sicily and indulge in traditional food
  • Discover the breathtaking sights of the beautiful Siracusa
“Experience the REAL Italy, stay at a real working olive farm with a local celebrity chef.” TOR HOLMBERG, traveled in July 2024

Taste of Salento-Authentic Culinary Experience

  • Visit Castro and the prehistoric cave of Zinzulusa
  • Try your hand at mastering the art of pasta making
  • Tantalise your tastebuds by sipping on local wines
“Food and lodging was fantastic.” Kenneth Alessi, traveled in June 2024

Small Group Tour of Sicily: Highlights (Maximum 8 Guests)

  • Get a full immersion that's rich in history, traditions and culture of the island
  • Experience Sicily though its incredible gastronomy, wines, art and music
  • Be accompanied by local guides who know it best and know Sicily secrets
“Sorrento was so beautiful. Staff at the hotels were great and meals (especially at the Hotel in Sorrento).” JOLLEAN EVANS, traveled in September 2022

Flavors of Italy & Amalfi Coast

  • Enjoy a real Neapolitan pizza and stroll through the ruins of Pompeii
  • Admire Santa Maria del Fiore, one of the largest churches in the world
  • See St Mark's Basilica, Rialto Bridge and Doge´s Palace in Venice

Discover TourRadar

Ancient theater in Taormina, Sicily, Italy

Best of Sicily and Southern Italy Tour for Seniors

Customers rate Zicasso's travel referral service  4.9  on a scale of 1 to 5 based on  1587  reviews on Trustpilot

We match you with top tour companies that specialize in the trip you want,  whether it's a customized private tour or a group tour.

  • Trip Overview

This is a sample itinerary to inspire a personalized trip designed with your travel specialist

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Countries Visited

Places visited, suggested duration.

Uncover the legends and immerse yourself in the history of Southern Italy. Spend a week in Sicily and a week on the mainland, hopping between three millennia of ruins, cultures, cities, and charms. Authentic local experiences mix with grand historical remains and plenty of coastlines, with just about every major European civilization having a role to play. Handcrafted for senior travelers who seek to both explore and experience, this is an in-depth tour full of fascinating details.

Customizable Itinerary

Palermo – touching down in sicily.

Check-in at your Palermo hotel and listen, as from the balcony comes the sounds of the city with traders calling, bells ringing, and a late-afternoon hum from street-side cafes. Take a short orientation walk, and your first impressions will continue to form as you see Byzantine mosaic, a Benedictine Abbey, local fishers, artisans, and nuns all walking past. This island has been invaded and taken over by a succession of civilizations, each of them creating a little piece of today’s Sicilian culture. Palermo is the crossroads where all of the influences collide, and the best way to experience this is to do nothing at all. Your guide will lead you to Piazza Bellini, and there you can sit back and watch how the island unfolds.

What's Included:

Palermo – Traditional Markets and Authentic Palermo Highlights

Yesterday evening was a calm introduction to this morning as you will take a walk through the tangled streets of Il Capo, Palermo’s outdoor market. Fishmongers shout above enormous swordfish, oranges and lemons tumble from their stores, and mountains of olives and grapes sit beside pungent cheeses. Join the locals by walking around very slowly, taking the time to nod hello, and really inspect the produce. Traditional markets are a highlight of Italy, and Palermo’s is one of the very best. You can taste and sample as you go and enjoy capers, zucchini, ricotta, pecorino, squid, octopus, and much more.

Stop for coffee on Piazza Praetoria nearby, a cappuccino before midday, espresso after, if you want to be local that is. Animal heads adorn Renaissance nudes in the piazza’s center for quite a bizarre sight to take in. Not far away, you will find Baroque design and a 15th-century palazzo, or palace. There is an Arab-Norman church and Palermo’s ultimate highlight, the Royal Mountain. A single glance at the golden mosaics and you will know that this is not an ordinary cathedral. Standing for 800 years, it is an ode to the collaboration between Arab and Christian artisans, and one of those sights where you take a thousand photos, and they all look good.

Erice – Ancient Greece and A Night Above the Sea

As with every day on this tour, your guides will minimize walking time and customize timing based on your energy and preferences. It was the best of Palermo yesterday, and now you can travel back into ancient Greece today. Stop in Segesta, where a Doric temple is a testimony to the Greek explorers of 2,800 years ago. Drive next to Erice, entering the cliffside town through a Carthaginian gate. Your hotel is almost half a mile above the sea, and the vistas are soothing, as are the local desserts. Erice is near where the Arabs landed, and they brought sugary deserts that would become Sicilian delicacies. One of them is gelato, and your guide will know exactly where you should go to try it.

Agrigento – More Greek History on Italy’s Boot

Segesta and Selinunte were great Greek rivals, and the latter won the war and was once home to 100,000 residents. The rapid development of the city was unlike anything the world had ever witnessed, and the ruins are amongst the finest in Europe. Selinunte is pretty much in the middle of nowhere, and that makes it even more special because there are not any hoards of tourists interrupting your experience. Take your time with the ancient Greek world, and then continue to Agrigento, stopping for a trattoria village lunch on route. Five temples are raised above the ground in Agrigento, and each has a story to tell. Surrounding them lays rugged rock and crumbling remains, a city in evocative ruin.

Enna – From the Valley of Temples to Roman Aerobics

If you tend to wake early on vacation, your guide can take you back into the Agrigento ruins this morning, and it is beautiful to watch the temples come out of the shadow. Even just having a coffee with an Agrigento view can be a memorable and moving experience. Leaving the ancient Greeks, you will drive 14 centuries forward to a Roman villa where Imperial reception rooms and lavish baths showcase a Diocletian style here. The mosaics are baffling, with ladies in bikinis performing aerobics and strange scenes from Greco-Roman mythology.

Spend the afternoon in Enna, perhaps the coziest of all the Sicilian villages you stay in. Join the locals at small cafes, where everybody seems to pass the time of day with a coffee, a chat, and perhaps a lottery ticket. They also serve up little snippets of food and small beers, as well as acting as a post office, Internet cafe, clubhouse, and more. These little places help keep the culture alive, creating meeting places for entire communities. They are old-fashioned, and you will likely be amongst the youngest present. You will indeed be warmly welcomed, in spite of any language barrier.

Siracusa – Mazy Streets, Mount Etna and More

Lush valleys of fruit and vines can be found beneath Mount Etna as the fertile slope creates a garden of organic produce. Driving to the east of the volcano, you can stop at a farmhouse and taste what is cultivated, including Sicilian wine. From here, venture next to Siracusa, a city with two different experiences as there is the archaeological park, with temples and ruins excavated from Etna’s ash. Then the narrow streets of old Siracusa, a nice place to walk slowly and feast on local tradition some more. Like Enna, Siracusa is compact and good for senior travelers, even those with limited mobility as you can see a lot without having to take too many steps.

Taormina – Greco-Roman Meets Arab and Catalan

Taormina epitomizes Sicily’s cultural contrasts as a Greco-Roman amphitheater is back-dropped by Etna’s perfect cone. The main palace is a mix of Norman, Arab and Catalan styles from the 15thcentury, and down at the harbor, you can feel the bustle of early 20th-century Sicily, while the fountains have borrowed from Florentine Renaissance and Roman Baroque. What a mix! And what a place to have a good guide alongside you who knows which way to turn and the stories behind it all. Taormina is your final destination in Sicily, and your hotel looks across the strait to the mainland.

Paestum – Untouched Ruins and Doric Tales

You will find so many strange places with strange stories, with so much to take in when you explore Southern Italy in depth. Take Paestum as an example, as the Doric Greek temples are majestic, exemplars of both time and place, as good as any anywhere, including Athens. For 2,000 years they were completely untouched. When the Romans deforested the hills the landscape turned to swamp, turning a thriving town into a malarial nightmare, followed by syphilitic pirates, and things got even messier, and this is just the start of the story. Today is relaxed, with just a short ferry journey to mainland Italy and then an afternoon in Paestum, with its cute little cafes and restaurants.

Pompeii – A Laid-Back Waterfront and Sleeping Besides Ancient Rome

Naples is misunderstood, just as Sicily often is. Relax on its waterfront, surrounded by faded grandeur, and watch its people walk by, all chic and suave in their southern style. Dependent on your energy level, you can set out on a walking tour of Naples, but even without much exploring, you will get a feel for what makes the city tick. Of course, you will eat pizza here, the real pizza from the place where pizza was invented. This should give you some energy to make the most of Pompeii, a vast archaeological site that is still being excavated after 200 years after being buried by Mount Vesuvius, and it is completely different from the other sites you will have seen so far. Elsewhere you will have encountered grand monuments, especially temples, but Pompeii provides an impression of an everyday Roman city, from the vernacular to the villas.

Pompeii – Exploring the Amalfi Coast and Sorrento

Amalfi and Sorrento are not always great overnight stops for senior travelers, as the hills and the steps can become a little too much. However, they are beautiful destinations, and your guide will customize a day tour to your preferences. Superb vistas can be enjoyed without having to walk, and village charms can be absorbed without continually getting lost on mazy stairs. Spend a day exploring this renowned peninsula and then return to Pompeii, where you can sleep beneath the splendor of the old Roman city.

Montecassino to Rome – Early Christianity and Imperial Legacy

The Montecassino story is more recent than most in Southern Italy, as this was where the Benedictine movement was founded, and the Abbey is a replica of the original. Unfortunately, that original, home of incredible art and ancient literature were bombed to destruction during World War II when it served as a Nazi base. As always, your guide will know all of the stories and will add context to the mosaics, columns, galleries, and chapels. From here, you will travel north to Rome. Prime hotel location is critical in the Eternal City, and you will have easy public transport access, but also be within the old urban core, so reaching restaurants and piazzas will not require a complicated journey.

Rome – Rome for Senior Travelers

Rome was built a long time before cars, and understandably, driving here is a nightmare. While it may not seem believable now, it is far easier to get around on public transport when exploring the central sights. Rome for senior travelers means hopping between Imperial legacies and Baroque art without getting clogged up in endless traffic queues. The Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, a Borromini church, and the Pantheon are four stops that showcase the best of the Italian capital. It is likely that you will be tired after all four, and there is no better place to rest and reenergize than Piazza Navona, perhaps the grandest of all Italian squares.

Rome – After Hours at the Vatican Museums

Perhaps the grandest of all piazzas, St Peter’s Square is also on another level, and its atmosphere is entirely different. Most of today is left free before you visit the Vatican in the late afternoon, giving you time to admire all of the columns of Piazza San Marco as they twist around St Peter’s Basilica. You will enjoy an after-hours tour of the Vatican Museums for a chance to experience Michelangelo and other greats without the crowds. Wander past Roman sculptures and Flemish tapestries, and enter spellbinding chapels where every inch of the wall is painted. Stand beneath the Sistine Chapel ceiling and appreciate how the paint has blurred into the wall, the Renaissance fresco style still unrivaled in world art. End the day with a stop in Piazza St Pietro to indulge in one last Italian dinner.

Rome – Departure

There could be some time to see a little more of Rome this morning, although you might want to take it easy and rest up before the flight. You will be transferred to the airport and wave goodbye to your Roman guide, departing Italy with 3,000 years of memories.

Trip Highlights

  • Delve into the authenticity of Palermo, tasting at food markets and joining locals at cafe terraces
  • Discover the art of ancient Greece by visiting Sicily’s glorious temple ruins, including Selinunte and Agrigento
  • Explore the Vatican Museums after hours, so you fully appreciate the works of Michelangelo et al
  • Spend a full week on Sicily, shifting between a blend of Arab, Roman, Norman, Catalan, and local highlights
  • Uncover Pompeii, a staggering Roman city once buried beneath volcanic ash
  • Travel through the heart of Rome, from the Colosseum to a Baroque city
  • Discover more with local historian guides, sites like Paestum and Taormina far more impressive when accompanied by stories
  • Spend a night on the coast at Erice, wake up at the Pompeii ruins, and travel through the legend of Montecassino

Detailed Description

Southern Italy connects cultures as ancient Greek temples stand on windswept hills, Byzantine mosaics fill Norman churches, and Roman amphitheaters stand in the shadow of tumultuous volcanoes. Over 3,000 years play out across the landscapes in the form of archaeological ruins and traditional cities. It is not a place that is easy to understand, as so much has happened between Sicily and Rome, there are not enough encyclopedias to record it all. There is no clear-cut tale, and no single story to sum it all up, and that is why Southern Italy is so enticing. Southern Italy is a region that rewards the time you spend, a destination that encourages you to both explore and experience. You will want to go in-depth as you travel, and that is what this handcrafted tour is all about.

Created for senior travelers, this intimate tour covers the historical and cultural highlights of Southern Italy, spending a week on Sicily and a week on the mainland, including Rome. This is a tour designed for those who have visited Europe before and seek something beyond classic sights. Local historians lead the way, and it will be their knowledge that helps to fill in the gaps. Sites like Agrigento and Paestum are all the more enjoyable when you understand how and why they are there. Not that this tour is all archaeological remains, however, as Southern Italy is packed full of atmospheric towns and villages, so traveling back in time also includes experiencing local traditions as well.

Sicily is a surprisingly large island, and getting around on the mountainous roads is slow. Having a single base does not really work in this region, so to save travel hours, you will hop across the island, starting with two nights in Palermo before overnighting in Erice, Agrigento, Enna, Siracusa and Taormina. A one-way route minimizes time on the move, and the villages you stay in are perfect for senior travelers. Take a look around, and you will probably feel young, as these are villages where seniors continue with their traditions but youngsters migrate out to cities. You can dine in typical trattoria, informal yet delicious local restaurants, and spend languorous evenings in surreal little places.

Walking time and distance has been minimized throughout the tour. You can save your energy for the archaeological sites or a short stroll around the hotel, rather than traipsing across mountains and cities. Each day there will be somewhere to explore, and once on the mainland that means discovering Paestum, Naples, Pompeii, Amalfi, Sorrento and Montecassino. These neighboring destinations fill four days before you get three nights in Rome, a city of so much legend it likely does not require an introduction. You will experience the best of it, including an after hours tour of the Vatican Museums. Your two weeks will pass quickly, but there is a lot to take away, not just the sights and destinations, but all the local food and people as well. Looking for the best Italian travel experiences? Consider browsing our Italy for Seniors travel reviews page.

Starting Price

$6,300  per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

What's Included

  • Accommodations
  • In-country transportation
  • Some or all activities and tours
  • Expert trip planning
  • 24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

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    Here at Firebird Tours, we offer an individual approach to every client and understand that the age of a traveler is an essential factor to consider when planning a perfect itinerary to Italy. For your convenience, we have put together a list of our best hand-picked senior trips to Italy, which feature excellent central hotels, comprehensive sightseeing programs, and enough free time to ...

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    USD $3,124 pp. Read more about making Puglia your next touring destination. Puglia tours. Italy offers a plethora of senior-friendly activities, ensuring a delightful experience for mature travelers. Our tours cater to those who appreciate a perfect blend of guided exploration and independent leisure.

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    Rest assured, whichever you choose refinement, renaissance art, and really good pasta await. 13-Day Italy Sightseeing Tour of Rome, Lake Como and Sorrento. A heaving antipasti platter of a tour, which offers a comprehensive introduction Italy's highlights. Starting in the nation's ancient, hectic capital, be prepared to dip down to the sun ...

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    ElderTreks: Adventure Travel for Seniors. For those seeking an adventurous spirit, ElderTreks specializes in creating exhilarating travel experiences for seniors. Their "Best of Italy" tour is a remarkable option, taking you to the iconic cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice, as well as other remarkable destinations across the country. This ...

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    Italy Tours for Seniors 2024/2025. With options that combine cultural exploration, leisure activities, and culinary experiences, Italy offers a wide range of tours for seniors. On an Italy tour, senior travelers can visit charming medieval towns like Siena and San Gimignano as a part of their wine-tasting tour in Italy, take leisurely strolls ...

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    Senior-friendly destinations in Italy. Tour #1: Enchanting Italian Lakes. Tour #2: Florence - A Trip Back In Time. Tour #3: Exploring Vatican City and Assisi. Tour #4: Romantic Venice. Tour #5: Treasures of Italy: Venice, Florence and Rome. Tour #6: Wonders of Rome and the Amalfi Coast.

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    Road Scholar has many tours of Southern Italy and Sicily, and here are a few of our favorites. 1. Winter in Italy: Culture & Cuisine in Taormina & Sicily. Sicily is the island at the bottom of the boot that is great to visit in the winter months. Sicily's location on the Mediterranean Sea gives it a romance and relaxation second to none.

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    The average price of tours for seniors in Italy based on data from 324 options is an affordable $326 per day. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Italy. And for more information on Italy, see Italy Travel Costs and Italy Hotel Costs.

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    Senior Citizen Train Discount. Travelling by train is one of the most convenient and scenic ways to explore Italy. It's also cost-effective for senior citizens thanks to discounts offered by Italian rail services. Italo, a high-speed rail operator, provides an offer called "Italo Senior" which is available to all passengers aged 60 and over.

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    8 days. Max Group: 16. From Venice to Rome. Tour Operator: Intrepid Travel. Start this enchanting journey through Italy with a Cinque Terre day pass to explore coastal pathways and colorful villages at your own pace. Get lost in the maze of Venice's alleys, canals, and islands, with the option for a gondola ride.

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    Italy Tours for Seniors. At Zicasso, we specialize in making Italy travel for seniors the most comfortable and convenient experience possible. From private transportation and ideal accommodations to private tours at the perfect pace, our travel specialists will assist you throughout your trip to deliver the most extraordinary vacation.

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    A Serene Seniors' Tour of Southern Italy and Sicily. 6. Highlights of Northern Italy Vacation for Seniors. 7. Italy Tour for Seniors: Rome, Maiori, and Sorrento. Plan Your Seniors Italy Tour with a Travel Specialist. 1. Italy Vacation for Seniors: Rome to Venice. Brenta Canal in Veneto, Italy.

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    Collette's Italy tour packages give travelers like you unique and unforgettable experiences! MENU. US CA; AU; 800.340.5158 or ... Once you've found the perfect Collette tour, your local travel agent can assist you in making reservations. To find a preferred travel agent in your area, please enter your 5-digit zip code, then click Search. ...

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    Our Italy tours for seniors. One of our most popular tours is the " Grand Journey of Italy ", an 11-day trip that covers the most famous cities of Rome, Florence, Venice, and Naples. This itinerary also includes visits to smaller towns such as Assisi and Siena, allowing you to experience Italy's diverse landscape.

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