Pick a region, city, or travel style — we’ll show the best areas for tourists, when to go, and where to book.
Quick Picks: Most Popular Destinations
All Italy Destinations by Region
North Italy
Lombardy & Lakes
Veneto & Friuli
Piedmont & Liguria
Emilia-Romagna & Dolomites
Central Italy
Tuscany
Lazio (Rome)
Umbria & Marche
South Italy & Islands
Campania & Amalfi
Puglia, Basilicata & Calabria
Pick by Travel Style
Beach
Family
Mountains & Lakes
Compare Top Bases for a Quick Decision
| Destination | Best For | No Car? | Budget | Peak Season | Ideal Trip Length | Airport / Train |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rome | History, food, first-timers | Yes (metro + walk) | $$ | Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct | 3–5 nights | FCO/CIA • HS trains |
| Sorrento | Amalfi hub, day trips | Yes | $$$ | May–Sep | 3–4 nights | NAP • Circumvesuviana |
| Taormina | Views, beaches, theatre | Yes (bus/cable car) | $$$ | May–Oct | 2–4 nights | CTA • regional trains |
| Costa Smeralda | Luxury beaches, boating | Better with car | $$$$ | Jun–Sep | 3–6 nights | OLB • car essential |
| Lake Como | Romance, villas, ferries | Yes (ferries) | $$$ | May–Sep | 2–4 nights | MXP/BGY • Lecco/Varenna rail |
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best month to visit Italy?
April–June and September–October offer mild weather, long daylight, and fewer peak-season crowds.
Where should I stay in Italy without a car?
Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, and Lake Como towns like Varenna are well-connected by train/ferry.
Best bases for families?
Lake Garda (flat promenades), San Teodoro (shallow beaches), Bologna (walkable), and Ischia (thermal pools).
Beach vs. culture in one trip — where to base?
Split between Rome or Naples (culture) and Sorrento/Amalfi or Sardinia (beach) to balance logistics.
How far in advance should I book?
For June–September and holiday periods, book popular areas 3–6 months ahead; cities 1–3 months is often enough.
Trip Planning Essentials
