Cities that are to die for and coastlines that’ll leave you swooning? Throw in pizza, pasta and limoncello and you’re living the La Dolce Vita dream!
Destination Highlights
Eating the best pizza in the world in its birthplace, Naples
Taking in all the sights of Venice from the water on a romantic gondola ride
Sipping wine on the Amalfi Coast. Enough said.
Basking in millenniums of history at the Colosseum in Rome
What are the best beaches for Italy Holidays 2024?
Italy is home to a gorge range of picturesque beaches, not placing bets, but we reckon you've never seen beaches quite like em. There’s a reason why they’re plastered all over your Instagram feed regularly - or is that just us? From beautiful sandy shores to secluded coves and beyond, the Boot is STACKED, and we’ve got you covered - whether you’re after a cheap holiday to Italy or something super last-minute. Here are our handpicked faves (sorry about all the pastry crumbs from our Neapolitan Sfogliatelle):
Marina Grand Beach (Positano) - Popular and sociable with plenty of bars and restaurants - the talk of the town, and all the other towns too, kinda like that one person you didn’t like from school. A beautiful beach.
Furore Beach (Amalfi) - Trigger fingers at the ready, your Insta is about to get the hit of its life from this little hidden location that is the epitome of ‘stunning’. A secluded cove with romantic steps leading down to truly set the scene for a proper Italian beach.
La Gaiola Beach (Naples) - A unique spot with bluey-green waters that’ll have you taking a dip no matter what - the word exotic actually translates to 'bluey-greeny', in Italian, no need to look it up, we already checked... Throw in the rocky scenery and diverse marine life and you’ve got your new fave beach.
La Pelosa (Sardinia) - If you’ve got the whole gang in tow, then make sure this beach in Sardinia is on your to-do list... unless maybe you're on the other side of Italy... although we'd argue it's worth the trip. Think shallow waters to paddle in and hustle and bustle to make it a true Italy holiday vibe.
Cala Goloritzé (Sardinia) - If UNESCO is labelling something a World Heritage Site, then you know it’s got a bit about it. Okay... a lot about it! This beach has a stunning backdrop, meaning you can top up that tan in style. Any beach created by a landslide is a must-visit in our eyes... like, how does that work? We need to know!
Spiaggia dei Conigli (Sicily) - when we think of legendary beaches, this one swoops in top of our list - we do say that to all the beaches - with it's retained beauty as a part of a protected nature reserve, and with the only access being via a 15-minute stroll or by boat, the secluded, pristine white sand and turquoise waters have us drooling - don't taste though. It's also home to loggerhead sea turtles that lay their eggs here during nesting season (off-limits at night May-August)
What are the top hotels in Italy?
We've handpicked our fave spots across Italy so you can jet off on your dream break filled with the best food you'll taste, sights you'll want to write home about and beaches that'll knock your socks and sandals off. Whether you’re looking for an all-inclusive holiday to Italy or just a place to rest your head before a full day of exploring, we got you. Check out these beauties below.
Europa Palace - Only a short stroll away from the town centre of Sorrento which means you're only minutes away from limoncello and pasta - you're welcome. Plus, it's got a beachside pool so you can take a dip without all the sand in your bits and bobs.
Palazzo Salgar - Get up close and personal with Naples by staying in this stylish hotel located in the heart of all the action. You're not far away from the waterfront, too, which is always a cheeky lil' bonus
Hotel Balocco - When we say cliffside, it sounds swanky doesn't it? Well, this Sardinian special is just that. Check out those views, soak em up, let em wash over you, any way you can experience em, you've gotta do it.
Grand Hotel Poltu Quatu - Fantastic views of the Sardinian coast? Check. A tonne o delish dining spots? Check. Sports facilities to suit everyone? Check. Our own boujee checklist? Check. There's a reason it's a 5* spot.
Colonna Grand Hotel Capo Testa - Private beach, huge pool area, amazing views of La Colba Bay - all of this and the kitchen sink. The list goes on and on and on...
Grand Palladium Sicilia Resort & Spa - a lil splash of Sicilian luxury to spice up your sun-soaked jolly - that's a lot of s', so you know we mean business - complete with dining venues to suit all tastes, an exclusive Signature Level package, pools and sports and entertainment, oh my!
Popular Italy hotels
Stunning Italy resorts
Weather in Italy
JAN
12°C
FEB
14°C
MAR
18°C
APR
20°C
MAY
21°C
JUN
24°C
JUL
26°C
AUG
27°C
SEP
25°C
OCT
20°C
NOV
15°C
DEC
10°C
The land shaped like a high-fashion boot, strutting its stuff under the Mediterranean sun. This boot was made for sunning... or however the song goes. Think of Italy's weather as your favourite pair of pumps or trainers – comfortable, colourful and down for all occasions! When summer rolls in (June to August), temperatures crank the dial up to a sizzling 25-30°C. Perfect for indulging in a gelato... okay, a cheeky second gelato... okay, a third and final gelato. Hey, who's keeping tabs?
How about autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) in Italy - we can't forget about them, let's think of them as your yearly slippers, they get the job done, but come Summer, you're ready to step out of em. That's what the temp is giving during these seasons, a chic 15-20°C. Ideal for sniffing out truffles in Umbria or swirling a glass of vino in Tuscany, right?
And winter (December to February)? It's not your typical freeze-fest. We'll liken this season to your fave clunky boots, you pull em out once a year, they're comfy and a lil' toasty, much like Italy keeps it comfy and a lil' toasty with the mercury hovering around 10-15°C. Picture yourself wrapped up in a cosy café, a steaming cappuccino in one hand, a cannoli in the other. Bellissimo!
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FAQs
How long does it take to fly to Italy?
Flights from the UK/Ireland mainland to Italy take around 2 hours - a 30-minute read and a 1-hour nap + 30 mins to take off and land... sounds about right to us.
What’s the time difference between the UK/Ireland and Italy?
Italy is 1 hour ahead of the UK/Ireland, so when you land at 3, it's really 4, which means it's 5, so deffo go straight to the bar.
What currency do they use in Italy?
The official currency in Italy is the Euro.
What language do they speak in Italy?
The official language is Italian, though you will find many English speakers in tourist destinations - your Duolingo streak will suffer, it's inevitable.
Tuck in and have fun
If you can’t get enough of the amazing Italian cuisine (we don't blame you!), take one of the many tasting tours from Sorrento and get right amongst all the goodness. You’ll be toured around local farms and vineyards where you can try the finest wines, olive oil, and of course, limoncello. The Italian life sounds good, doesn't it?!
Take to the streets, Italian-style
If you’re a shopaholic, you’ll want to check out the town of Olbia, on Sardinia’s Emerald Coast. There are daily street markets where you can find everything from local delicacies to fine art, and over a hundred boutiques for unique fashion finds.
An Instagram Story dream
Whether you’re working with a high-tech camera or just your phone, the Neapolitan Riviera will inspire your inner photographer. Take the most Instagram-worthy pics at Positano viewpoint, the Terrace of Infinity, and the Path of the Gods.
The floor is lava!
We all learnt about the Mt. Vesuvius volcano in school, but how many kids got to walk up it? The hike is manageable for families of confident walkers and leads to amazing views over the ruins of Pompeii.
Blue is the colour
The Blue Grotto is a natural wonder that awaits you in a cave beneath the off-shore Capri Island. The famous site earned its name because it’s home to the brightest azure seawater you’ll ever see! Catch a tour from Marina Grande which will take you right to the rowboats at the cave entrance.
Villa dEste's Water Gardens
What's Italy without some UNESCO World Heritage Sites, it's crammed full of em, and we reckon they're all true sights to behold - take this one for example, nestled in Tivoli, near Rome, this complex of over 100 fountains is known worldwide for it's architectural prowess and time-capsule-esque snapshot into the countries vibrant history. Basically, if you're looking for a relaxing day off the streets of Rome, and you're a sucker for some ancient architecture (who isn't?), then make a day of this spot, we know we would.
You’ll find that the country has events that are celebrated nationally, as well as more local affairs to enjoy anytime of the year, so here’s a mix of both to expect on your holiday in Italy:
Regata della Befana (January) - Is it a bird? Is it a plane? NO! It's a witch on a gondola... As incredible as it sounds, this festival rings in the end of the festive period complete with stockings filled with sweets for the good kids and a parade of revellers dressed as witches rowing through the canals of Venice.
Carnevale (February) - Extravagance is key here, people wander the streets in their finery, towns across the country stage colourful parades and there's even a luxurious ball all spread over two weeks in the lead-up to Ash Wednesday.
Venice Biennale (April) - If you're an arty type, then you'll be well aware of this world-famous event where you’ll find the cutting edge of contemporary art in all its forms... if you aren't an arty type then... this is a world famous event where you'll find cutting edge contemporary art in all its forms.
Monumenti Aperti (May) - Throughout the month, cultural and historical sites that don’t usually allow visitors are opened to the public - this is your chance to get enriched by some local culture, and the fact this is the only month you get to see some of it gives you that lil edge when it comes bragging rights.
Regatta of the Ancient Maritime Republics (June) - A chance to see historical ships and costumes on the high seas, forget Pirates of the Caribbean, that's so 2000-late, this annual festival is so 1898 coded, we can't miss it and neither should you. Oh, it rotates annually between Amalfi, Pisa, Genoa, and Venice too, just FYI.
Napoli Pizza Village Festival (June) - Europe’s biggest pizza festival... so big in fact, that it's gone global, but what better place than direct from the sauce (heh) where you can try hundreds of different varieties of Italy’s best export from 50 world famous pizzerias.
Ravello Music Festival (July–August) - the BBC Proms meets Italy at this suit-and-tie bonanza of orchestral goodness - a surefire way to feel as boujee as possible with plenty of chances to see international orchestras play right by the sea, it's like they knew we were coming.
Ferragosto (August) - A national holiday dating back to Roman times, marked by locals ditching their jobs - not literally, just for the day - hitting the beaches and eating an unusual chocolate aubergine dish... don't knock it til you try it.
Round Sardinia Race (September) - Boats of all sizes travel the world’s oceans to take part in this race, which you can watch from any of the beaches in Sardinia - when people come from so many places, it'd be rude not to gawk for awhile really...
Truffle Season (October-November) - While we may associate truffles with the ultimate in fine dining, Italy has a huge harvest of the delicacy in the Autumn, and many towns host feasts and celebrations that foodies will love - plus you get to experience fine dining standard deliciousness as part of a festival... how could you say no?
Capodanno (December) - Naples does New Year’s Eve in style, with an all-night outdoor disco and fireworks across the city - when Dua sang, 'Watch me daaaance, dance the night away'... she really meant NYE in Naples... just a fact.
Where’s the best nightlife in Italy?
Across the country, you’ll find everything from posh wine bars to pumping nightclubs, but you won’t need to stray far from the beach to get to these lively spots on your holiday to Italy, in fact, some of them are on the beach - it's like they knew:
Piazza Bellini, Naples - This square is popular with party-goers young and old, head to a bar for non-stop dancing or just kick back, enjoy the live music outside and sip on a chilled beer, bliss should always be this easy to reach.
Il Pirata, Praiano - Yo ho ho and a bottle of sun! This fun pirate-themed bar is built right into a rock formation and is the best place to live out your childhood dream of being Captain Jack Sparrow - drink up me hearties!
Rada, Positano - If you wanna feel like Posh Spice, this is your place, and by Posh Spice, we just mean a gorge, swanky cocktail on the outdoor terrace, or forget about Posh Spice (how could you?) and head inside to dance the night away to live Italian music.
Agua, Alghero - This popular seaside nightclub has free entry, making it a great shout for cheaper holidays to Italy, think boozing, moving, shaking and grooving with plenty of tasty tipples on offer and a perfect location.
Phi Beach disco, Baia - Get tipsy watching the sunset, then join the party as their DJs play international hits throughout the night - it'd be rude of us to leave out a disco, and one this bangin' deserves a special shoutout.
What's the food like in Italy?
If you haven’t eaten pizza, pasta, and ice cream - where have you been?! Your holidays to Italy are the perfect chance to try authentic versions of your favourites, but don’t miss out on these tasty dishes too:
Cuoppo - Naples’ answer to fish and chips! Fresh seafood is fried in a light crispy batter and served in a cone.
Totani E Patate Alla Praianese - A hearty dish of squid and potatoes doused in white wine.
Sea Urchins - Yes, really! Sardinia is famed for its sea urchin dishes, try them with authentic fresh spaghetti.
Limoncello - No Italian holiday is complete without a shot of cooling Limoncello to end a meal.
Seadas - An unusual Sardinian dessert pastry filled with lemon-scented cheese and topped with orange blossom honey.
These coastal eateries are renowned for their fine foods:
Antica Pizzeria Port'Alba, Naples - The world’s oldest pizzeria, they’ve been serving tasty traditional recipes for over 200 years - that's a LOT of pizza!
Da Adolfo, Positano - This seafood restaurant’s secluded private beach location makes it ideal for a romantic lunch date, it wouldn't be right of us to not give you the heads up... so if you're popping a ring in a glass of bubbles, remember us.
Cioccolato e Gelato Andrea Pansa, Amalfi - You can grab some of the world’s finest gelato here, as well as other Italian desserts... we're sure there are plenty... but gelato... gelato is the elite.
Mediterraneum Caffe, Castelsardo - A chilled out and friendly place to share traditional lunch with family while you take in ocean views - the perfect blend of vibes for a perfect day out.
Gintilla Vegan Restaurant, Cagliari - Nobody has to miss out on Italian delicacies at this fine-dining spot where elegance is the focal point... well the food is first, but the food is elegant too!
Places to visit
The Colosseum, Rome
This ancient amphitheatre isn't just old; it's well old, the granddaddy of all stadiums, where gladiators used to clash swords and slap sandals... much like you avid explorers today... well minus the swords. It's not just a pile of rocks, either, it's a mega monument that'll have Dad saying things like, 'Wow, they really built this without cranes!' Visiting the Colosseum is a must do for anyone visiting Rome on their Italy holidays; it's like stepping into a time machine, minus the DeLorean and Doc Brown. You can almost hear the echoes of ancient cheers... or is that just the sound of another gelato shop opening nearby? (We love gelato). Either way, the Colosseum is where history gets real and your history teacher gets jealous. So, gear up for a Roman adventure that’s 100% more epic than your average day. No time machines are needed, just a good pair of walking shoes and a flair for the dramatic!
Lake Como, Lombardy region
Oh, Lake Como – where the water's as glitzy as a celebrity gala and the mountains play backdrop like they're auditioning for Attenborough's next documentary - spoiler alert, they got the part. Here, every villa is basically a castle in disguise, just waiting for its Instagram moment to shine. Picture yourself in a boat, zipping around like you're in a Bond film, espresso in hand, casually scouting for Clooney. The views are so stunning, they'd make the Mona Lisa jealous - just ask Da Vinci, he'd know best. It's a mix of chill vibes and high fashion, where even the fish seem to swim with a little extra pizzazz.
The Amalfi Coast, Naples
Italy's very own ribbon of road that hugs the cliffs like it's clinging on for dear life! The towns here are stacked up the hills like colourful Lego blocks designed by artists. Cruise along the coast and you're in for a treat – every turn is a postcard begging to be sent, every building the perfect snapshot of quaint eye-candy, every sunset a gorge blinder, but you'll be too awestruck to find a stamp, to find your phone, to find anything - we're joking, you won't actually be blinded, maybe don't look right at the sun though, ehy? Sipping limoncello here is a must, with lemons so big they have their own gravitational pull, we're not joking, if you see us orbiting a lemon, do offer a hand. The Amalfi Coast is a 'brag to your friends forever' kind of journey! Time to make 'em jealous...
Key facts about Italy
Flight Time
2 hrs
Time Difference
+1 hr
Currency
Euro
Language
Italian
Do I need any vaccinations to visit Italy?
We'll let the professionals give you the lowdown on this one, check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.
Do I need to pay tax on my holiday to Italy?
Customers are required to pay a tourist tax of between 0.75 Euro and 2.50 Euro per person per night, depending on the star rating of the hotel. Children under 14 are exempt from the tax.
