Top 4 destinations for a luxury Italy tour
Italy is doubtless one of the best holiday destinations in the world, receiving the third-highest number of international tourist arrivals in Europe in 2023. Mesmerising geographical marvels, glorious coastline and magnificent cities combine to create a country with a little bit of everything. Discover the destinations where luxury knows no bounds and you can be sure of an extra-special experience of this extraordinary country.
Rome
Italy’s enthralling capital is one of the most treasured cities in Europe, famous for its heritage sites, awe-inspirating architecture, delectable cuisine and world-class shopping. To make the most of your visit, you should look into Italy guided tours led by experts in local culture who can give detailed insights as you explore.
Highlights include the ancient Colosseum and Pantheon, both protected UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the elaborate 18th-century Trevi Fountain where wishes are made by tourists. When you need a pick-me-up, opt for an authentic gelato on a shaded table in one of the picturesque piazzas.
Tuscany
Once you’ve had your fill of the city, escape into the countryside. Italy has no shortage of spectacular landscapes, not least the dramatic Dolomites in the north where skiing is rewarding in winter, but the rolling hills and terraced vineyards of central Tuscany are the most revered.
Base yourself in the Apennines in a private villa or characterful boutique hotel with glorious mountain and valley views. This region between Florence and Siena – two must-visit cities for their arts legacy and beautiful buildings – includes charming agricultural areas like Chianti where rich red grapes are grown, and wine tours and tastings are widely available.
Italian Lakes
Further north is another astonishing rural region that is perfect for elevated relaxation: the Italian Lakes. Set in the shadow of the Alps, this area is blissfully tranquil and includes iconic Lake Como which is beloved by the rich and famous for its scenery, privacy and glamour.
Unwind with upmarket treatments in a spa hotel or on the outdoor terrace of a terracotta-roofed, ochre-walled villa covered in vibrant pink bougainvillea. Unmissable is the cable-car ride to Brunate for a fantastic destination dining experience with enchanting views.
Go walking through the surrounding hills and summit Monte Boletto if you’re feel active. You can also enjoy the great outdoors on the lakes themselves with water sports including sailing, windsurfing, jet-skiing and stand-up paddleboarding.
Amalfi Coast
Part of the southwest Italian shoreline, the UNESCO-listed Amalfi Coast is a hotspot for romantic holidays that go above and beyond. Everything about the area, from the colourful houses clinging to the cliffside to the alluring atmosphere, is intimate and uplifting, and the sea views are unforgettable. This is the perfect place to spend your honeymoon or celebrate a specular anniversary.
Just offshore are three exquisite islands – Capri, Ischia and Procida – where incredible natural sites such as the Blue Grotto meet luxury shopping and accommodations for an unbeatable day’s excursion. Inland from the coastline’s beaches and islands is the Campania countryside which can be explored on foot or two wheels and is at its most glorious in spring.