Cheap Holidays to Italy

One of the most beautiful countries in Europe, if not the world, Italy's sights, beaches and cities ooze romance, fun and adventure. From Rome's ancient Colosseum and the spectacular Vatican City to the bustling canals of Venice, the idyllic Italian lakes and jaw-dropping beaches and villages of the Amalfi Coast, Italy holidays offer something for everyone. Thanks to their magical skylines, historic monuments and incredible restaurants, Rome, Florence and Venice remain some of the most popular city break destinations in the world. With great transport links and short flights from the UK, you can explore to your heart's content. And for those looking for the ultimate romantic break, look no further than Naples and its surrounding Amalfi villages. From day trips to island tours or touring the shops of the fashion capital of the world,聽Milan, holidays to Italy provide memories to enjoy for a lifetime.

Places to Go and Things to Do

Hit the River Arno

Florence's famous picturesque waterfront is best enjoyed from the Ponte Vecchio bridge or from a boat along the Arno River. Take a Florence-style gondola along the Arno or better still, opt for a Water Bike Tour? This fun two-hour tour is certainly a unique way to experience the city and as you sail (or cycle) down the Arno River you'll have front row seats as you glide past the magnificent monuments.

Dine Al Fresco

Eating in one of the many outdoor restaurants is a great way of enjoying delicious Italian cuisine while soaking up the Florentine atmosphere. Opt for a restaurant overlooking a piazza and you will be in a prime place to do both. Visit Vini e Vecchi Sapori, a family-owned bistro serving fantastic Italian food, find Fiaschetteria Nuvoli for its famous Florentine dishes and fine wine. If you've got a sweet tooth, Rivoire's The Tarta del Nonno is a champion chocolate dessert or grab an ice cream at one of the colourful gelaterias around the city – our favourite is Festival del Gelato

Book a Concert and Dinner

What could be more romantic than dinner and concert in the heart of Florence. Tuck into an authentic Tuscan supper in one of the many local trattorias, soak up the atmosphere in the picturesque neighbourhood of Oltrarno and once you've indulged your tastebuds head over to the Florentine Anglian Church of St. Mark's and enjoy the intimate opera performances of Puccini, Verdi and Rossini, among other renowned composers.

Discover the Renaissance Era

As the true home of the Renaissance, Florence is a treasure trove for art lovers. Head to the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most famous in the world, and you'll uncover a mammoth collection of masterpieces by artists including Caravaggio, Michelangelo, Raphael and Titian. It's worth taking a guided tour and walking The Vasari Corridor that links the Uffizi Gallery to the Pitti Palace where you'll find artwork from the 16th and 17th century. Book your tickets for the main museums and galleries early and online to avoid the big tourist queues.

Essential Information

Getting Around

Both rail and bus services in Italy are extremely good value. They are reliable, particularly the train service, and a great way to travel from one city to another. There are regular ferry and hydrofoil services between the islands and the mainland. Internal flights may be worth considering for longer distances. Cycling is a great way of navigating the cities, and motorbikes, mopeds and scooters are also available.

Travelling by bus or car

Buses are available throughout Italy, although less frequent in far-to-reach places. Fares are extremely cheap, and in the cities, tickets are available from anywhere saying ‘biglietti’ or ‘tickets’.

Hiring a car is a great way of exploring Italy, but cities and their ring roads can be difficult to master and traffic can get very congested. Driving is on the right hand side of the road.

Passports and Visas

For a holiday to Italy, Brits don’t need a visa, but a passport that is valid for the duration of your stay is essential. For more information and advice, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/italy/entry-requirements or the Foreign Office at www.fco.gov.uk/en/

Health and Safety

Take out comprehensive travel insurance before you holiday in Italy, and also pick up a free EHIC which entitles you to free emergency care. For more info, see www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/italy/health

Vaccinations

There are no specific jabs needed for a holiday to Italy, but double check with your GP in advance, just in case. Routine vaccinations should be up to date.