There are four Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore : Isola Madre, Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori and Isolino di San Giovanni, the only one not open to the public.

Europe

Italy

Borromean Islands

Alghero is a pretty city located on the west coast of Sardinia. The old part is located on the headland which closes off the beach of San Giovanni and the port.

Sardinia

Alghero

A heavenly island with multiple and varied flavours: a concentrate of pleasure!

Ile Capri

Midway between Italy and North Africa, the island of Sardinia shelters beautiful wild landscapes.

The Vatican Palace regroups the majority of museum's rooms.

Apostolic Palace

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<p><strong>The Vatican Palace is really called the Apostolic Palace</strong> and it's where the Popes live. With its 1,400 rooms (yes, really!), stretched out over some 55,000 m², today it's the largest palace in the world! It groups together several components and museums accessible to the public. A place which is one of the great classics to visit!</p>
<p>So, you'll be able to cross the Borgia donjons, Raphaël's bedroom, the Sistine Chapel... The Palace groups six chapels together, which is an honourable number in a single place! The Pauline Chapel and the Pope's private chapel are part of these. On the other hand, they're not open to the public.<br></p>
<p>For those who are on the route (such as the Chapel of Nicholas V, where you'll see paintings by Fra Angelico), you'll notice that despite the similarities, every one is unique.</p>
<p>Don't be scared of "missing a room", as I thought I was going to do in this maze: the visit is done very well and the signs (and the crowd) show you the path to follow. In addition, the alcoves and annexed rooms are either loops or dead ends: you'll always go back to the main path!<br></p>

The best local travel agencies in Italy for family tours with kids

Family tour ideas in Italy

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Start planning your <a href="https://www.evaneos.com/where-to-go/family-vacations/" target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.com/where-to-go/family-vacations/">family vacation</a> in Italy to experience one of Europe's most captivating countries. From Rome's ancient history to Florence's art galleries, and the sun-drenched Amalfi Coast, kids young and old will appreciate Italy's delights.&nbsp;</span></p><h3><b>What makes Italy a great destination for families?</b></h3><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><a data-destination-id="10" data-internal-link="destination">Italy</a> is a superb destination for families with children. Everyone will love famous sights like <strong>Rome's Colosseum</strong>, and older kids will appreciate<strong> Italy's artistic and historic heritage</strong>. Plus, there are many <strong>fabulous beaches to visit</strong>, and <strong>eclectic, photogenic cities</strong> such as Naples and Florence. Wherever you go, you'll relish indulging in <strong>tasty Italian pizzas</strong>, sumptuous seafood, and delectable pasta dishes.</span></p><h3>Best things to do in Italy with kids</h3><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">From lazy days by the sea, relaxing afternoons at your own private villa, or city breaks spent exploring Rome and Florence, there's plenty to love about Italy. With its network of English-speaking guides who are also local experts, Evaneos is here to tailor your family vacation in Italy to your satisfaction.</span></p><h4>Tour Rome's iconic landmarks</h4><p><strong>Rome</strong> is one of the world's most popular cities, and for good reason. <strong>The Colosseum</strong> is a famous stadium where <strong>gladiator battles</strong> once took place, while <strong>the ancient Pantheon</strong> was a temple that later became a Catholic church. You'll stand in awe of the historical and religious treasures in the <a data-place-id="17273" data-internal-link="place">Vatican City</a>.</p><h4>Take an art tour in Florence</h4><p><span data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;" style="color: rgb(48, 42, 37); font-size: 15px;"><strong>Florence</strong> is one of the world's great cities for art. <strong>The </strong></span><strong><i style="color: #302a25; font-size: 15px;" data-mce-style="color: #302a25; font-size: 15px;">Galleria dell'Accademia</i></strong><span data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;" style="color: rgb(48, 42, 37); font-size: 15px;"><strong> houses Michelangelo's David</strong>, one of the world's most famous statues. The 13th-century </span><i style="color: #302a25; font-size: 15px;" data-mce-style="color: #302a25; font-size: 15px;"><span data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Palazzo Vecchio</span></i><span data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;" style="color: rgb(48, 42, 37); font-size: 15px;"> (Old Palace) is a marvel of <strong>medieval Italian architecture</strong>.</span></p><h4>Ride Venice's gondolas</h4><p><strong>Venice is a family-friendly</strong> Italian destination that is not to be missed. Take a <strong>gondola tour</strong> through its canals and admire the dramatic architecture. Be sure to visit <strong>the famous St. Mark's Square and its grand basilica</strong>. The small <strong>island of Murano</strong> is just outside Venice, and is famous for its beautiful blown glassware.</p><h4>Relax on the glamorous Amalfi Coast</h4><p><strong>The Amalfi Coast is great for families</strong>. It's well known as one of Europe's most beautiful coastal spots, so <strong>hit the beach or your own poolside villa</strong> for a luxurious Italian family vacation. You'll fall in love with the area’s coastal towns and famous caves.</p><h4>Witness Naples's mighty Mount Vesuvius</h4><p><strong>Naples</strong> is the quintessential southern Italian city. <strong>Eat Neapolitan pizza and gelato</strong>, and take a tour of <strong>Mount Vesuvius</strong>, Europe's only active volcano. Take a look into the life of Italy's former royal family at <strong>the Royal Palace of Naples</strong>.</p><h3>Tips for planning a family vacation in Italy</h3><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Just like most other European cities, family trips in Italy cities are largely safe travel experiences. Italy is known for its <a data-document-id="6561" data-internal-link="article">beautiful summers</a>, so bring sunscreen and headwear if you're out and about, especially in the afternoon. Renting a car isn't usually necessary in the big cities, and the national train network provides efficient connections if you're city hopping.</span></p><p><br><br></p>

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The best tailor-made Italy trips for families with children, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

Design your perfect family vacation with a local expert in Italy

Italy family vacations

Family Trips

Family Vacations in Italy | Child-Friendly Travel

The best local travel agencies in Italy for honeymoon trips

Honeymoon tour ideas in Italy

<p><a href="https://www.evaneos.com/where-to-go/honeymoon/" target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.com/where-to-go/honeymoon/">A honeymoon</a> in Italy is the ultimate choice for couples seeking truly romantic surroundings. Walk arm in arm across grand piazzas and visit breathtaking ancient sites, before indulging in exceptional Italian cuisine.<strong> Italy has some of the world's most picturesque cities and chic coastal resorts</strong>, making it a dream honeymoon destination.</p><h3>What makes Italy a great honeymoon destination?</h3><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">There are countless delights in Italy's cities, <strong>famed for vivacious culture, historic sights, and world-class dining on practically every corner</strong>. Combined with sublime weather and the best Italian wines, the stage will be set for a honeymoon to remember. Out in the countryside or at the beach, <strong>you can enjoy your time as newlyweds in idyllic surroundings</strong>. Evaneos partners with English-speaking, expert local guides, to customize your honeymoon to your tastes.</span></p><h3>Best honeymoon activities and experiences in Italy</h3><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Here are some of the very best things to do on your honeymoon in <a data-destination-id="10" data-internal-link="destination">Italy</a>, ranging from tours of the country's incredible landmarks to the most scenic spots for romantic photos. Whether you spend your time visiting vineyards or gallery hopping, <strong>Italy promises to delight your senses.</strong></span></p><h4>Admire Rome's cultural treasures</h4><p><strong>Rome</strong> is bursting with ancient wonders, including <strong>the iconic Colosseum</strong> and <strong>the grand Pantheon</strong>, a temple-turned-church. Be sure to stop and <strong>toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain</strong>, and make a wish as you start your adventure together.</p><h4>Glide along the canals of Venice</h4><p><strong>The Lagoon City</strong> is undoubtedly one of the best honeymoon spots in Italy. Shop for <strong>artisan masks</strong> and admire the grandeur of <strong>St. Mark's Square,</strong> then embark on a <strong>gondola ride</strong> along the gorgeous Venetian canals. It's also worth visiting <strong>the island of Murano</strong>, famed for its fine glassware.</p><h4>Escape to the Amalfi Coast</h4><p>Among the many gems of <strong>the Amalfi Coast is Positano</strong>, a quaint town surrounded by lush hills. Stay in a <strong>private hillside villa</strong>, a short walk from <strong>a golden-sand beach</strong>, for a truly romantic setting for your honeymoon getaway.</p><h4>Tour art galleries in Florence</h4><p>For a culture-filled honeymoon trip, head to <strong>Florence</strong>, where you'll find <strong>Michelangelo's David</strong>, housed in the magnificent <strong>Galleria dell'Accademia</strong>. <strong>The Pitti Palace</strong> is a former royal residence and is well worth a visit for its opulent interiors and splendid<strong> Boboli Gardens.</strong></p><h4>Take a wine tour in Montalcino</h4><p>Tucked away peacefully in<strong> the Tuscany region</strong>, <strong>Montalcino</strong> is a walled hilltop village and is a gorgeous spot for a tranquil honeymoon. What's more, it's close to some of the region's best vineyards, so you can enjoy <strong>a wine tasting tour</strong> and discover the area's best-loved export.</p><h3>Tips for planning a honeymoon in Italy</h3><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">In the bigger cities, hotels and villas get booked up fast, so planning in advance is ideal, especially in the spring and summer months. Southern Italy, in particular, enjoys <a data-document-id="6561" data-internal-link="article">great weather year-round</a>, though spring to fall is ideal for the beaches and pools. <strong>The perfect honeymoon in Italy lasts a week or two</strong>, and you can easily explore multiple locations using the country's excellent train network.</span></p>

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The best tailor-made honeymoon trips and experiences in Italy, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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Italy honeymoon vacations

Honeymoon Trips

Honeymoon Tours in Italy | Hand-Crafted Trips | Evaneos

The best local travel agencies in Italy for two week trips

Two week tour ideas in Italy

The best two week trips to explore Italy, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

Design your perfect two week trip with a local expert in Italy

Two weeks in Italy

Two Week Trips

Two Weeks in Italy | 14 Day Tailor-Made Trips

The best local travel agencies in Italy for one week trips

One week tour ideas in Italy

The best one week trips to explore Italy, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

Design your perfect one week trip with a local expert in Italy

One week in Italy

One Week Trips

One Week in Italy | 7 Day Tailor-Made Trips

The best local travel agencies in Italy for road trips

Self-drive vacations in Italy

<p>Hit the highways for a road trip in <a data-destination-id="10" data-internal-link="destination"><strong>Italy&nbsp;</strong></a>and you’ll have an unforgettable vacation. You’ll cruise over picturesque, rolling hills dotted with vineyards, stopping at quaint <strong><a href="https://www.evaneos.com/italy/tours-food-and-wine/" target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.com/italy/tours-food-and-wine/">wineries</a></strong> and restaurants along the way. Or explore rocky coastlines along the Mediterranean, or scenic lakeside towns. Wherever you choose to drive, Italy is a fantastic self-drive adventure.<br></p><h3>What makes Italy a great destination for a road trip?</h3><p>Driving in Italy offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in the country’s strong culture. Enjoy regional dining and meet plenty locals, all while taking in the <strong>picturesque, meandering countryside roads or <a href="https://www.evaneos.com/italy/tours-cities/" target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.com/italy/tours-cities/">vibrant cities</a></strong>&nbsp;at your own pace.&nbsp;<br></p><h3>The best road trips in Italy</h3><p>There is no better way to explore all Italy has to offer than on a road trip. You'll discover mountain passes, <strong>tranquil lakes, natural hot springs, and vineyards</strong>, all at your own pace. Here are the top road trip experiences in Italy.<br></p><h4>Cruise through the romantic Casentino Valley</h4><p>From Florence, it’s a <strong>leisurely 38-mile drive into the scenic rolling hills</strong> of the Casentino Valley in Tuscany. This magical route offers an array of charming restaurants, laid-back accommodation options, and plenty of wineries to stop in along the way.<br></p><h4>Explore history and beautiful scenery at Lake Garda</h4><p>Fly into Verona and head straight for Lake Garda in the Veneto region, where you’ll find <strong>scenic pastel-colored villas flanking the gorgeous lake waters</strong> in Limone sul Garda, just 60 miles away. Stop to view Buonconsiglio Castle in Trento, or the Santa Giulia Museum in Brescia.<br></p><h4>Adventure along the breathtaking Amalfi Coast</h4><p>To do it all in one fell swoop, it would take just five hours to drive the spectacular Sorrento Peninsula from Naples, past Mount Vesuvius and Pompei, to Sorrento, Positano, and Salerno. But <strong>don’t speed through it and instead take a few days</strong> to enjoy the region's history, quaint dining, and sunshine.&nbsp;<br></p><h4>Soak up the Mediterranean sun in Sicily</h4><p>An amazing <strong>three-day driving tour</strong> of Sicily could start in Catania at the foot of Mount Etna, then continue to the ancient Greco-Roman Teatro Antico in Taormina. Finally, drive on to cosmopolitan Messina, home to its Gothic Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption.<br></p><h4>See nature at its best in the Ortler Alps</h4><p>The striking Stelvio Pass in Northern Italy sits right on the border with <strong><a data-destination-id="8" data-internal-link="destination">Switzerland</a></strong> in the Ortler Alps. Take the road into the mountains and travel along its <strong>winding hairpin bends</strong>. Enjoy spectacular mountain views en route, and take a dip in the hot springs of Bormio. End with a scenic drive around Lago di Livigno.<br></p><h3>Tips and advice for touring Italy by car</h3><p>Book your rental car before arriving in Italy to get the best rate. <strong>Speeding tickets are commonly issued</strong> and will be automatically charged to your credit card by the rental agency. <strong>Italians drive on the right</strong>, speed limits are in kilometers, and the majority of rental vehicles are manual.</p>

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The best road trips and self-drive vacations in Italy, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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Italy road trips

Road Trips

Best Road Trips in Italy | Explore Italy By Car | Evaneos

The best local travel agencies in Italy for hiking and trekking trips

Tour ideas for trekking and hiking in Italy

<p><a data-destination-id="10" data-internal-link="destination"><strong>Italy&nbsp;</strong></a>has more than its fair share of awe-inspiring landscapes, from the dreamy Dolomites mountain range in the north to Sicily's sizzling Mount Etna. For hikers, there are peaks, coastlines, and valleys to thrill even the most experienced. There's never been a better time to dust off your boots and go hiking in Italy.<br></p><h3>What makes Italy a great destination for hiking?</h3><p>Apart from the <strong><a href="https://www.evaneos.com/italy/tours-food-and-wine/" target="_blank">food</a>, art, and charming cities</strong>, Italy offers a huge variety of hiking options for adventurous travelers. Arguably the best way to take in the country's breathtaking countryside is on two feet, allowing you to explore those winding country paths and towering cliff-side trails. And there are plenty of places to stop at along the way. See <strong>castles, monasteries, and pretty villages</strong> dotted throughout its landscapes, and after a long day hiking, what could be better than a meal with fine wine at one of the country's gorgeous vineyards?<br></p><h3>The best places to go hiking in Italy</h3><p>Planning the best hiking routes in Italy can take a bit of time and know-how. Here's a little inspiration to help you start planning your Italy hiking trip.&nbsp;<br></p><h4>Explore the Florence Renaissance Ring Trail</h4><p>This hike follows a 106-mile circuit around the Renaissance capital of Italy, Florence. <strong>Hiking through the fields and over Tuscan hills</strong> takes you to castles and monasteries, along Roman roads, and into enchanting countryside churches.<br></p><h4>Hike the Paths of the Gods on the Amalfi Coast</h4><p>Among the best hikes in Italy, the Path of Gods runs along the Amalfi Coast, from the village of Nocelle to Bomerano. You’ll enjoy <strong>magnificent aerial views of Capri island</strong> and the various villages dotted around this part of the coast, each with colorful houses. For a gentler experience, begin hiking from Bomerano and enjoy the downward slope towards Nocelle.<br></p><h4>Scale Sicily’s Mount Etna</h4><p>Ascending Mount Etna is one of the must-do activities for hikers in Italy. <strong>The volcano still experiences occasional eruptions</strong> and depending on your trekking skills, you can take various routes that lead to beautiful caves, ravines, and ancient lava gullies.<br></p><h4>Trek through the Dolomites</h4><p>Trekking in the Dolomites should be on every hiker's wish-list. The landscape here ranges from <strong>cloud-covered peaks and vertical cliffs, to alpine meadows and turquoise mountain lakes</strong>, like stunning Braies. The scenery here is absolutely unrivalled and the landscape will leave you in awe.<br></p><h4>Quench your thirst on Chianti’s hiking trails</h4><p>Walking from one vineyard to another in the Tuscan countryside reveals a more laid-back side to hiking in Italy. Various <strong>trails wind their way through beautifully-scented countryside</strong>, with vineyards stretching for as far as the eye can see.<br></p><h3>Tips for planning a hiking tour in Italy</h3><p>The best times of year for trekking in Italy are <strong><a href="https://www.evaneos.com/italy/tours-spring/" target="_blank">spring</a> and <a href="https://www.evaneos.com/italy/tours-fall/" target="_blank">autumn</a></strong>. Be sure to pack good hiking boots, snacks, and water. Light, breathable clothing is also recommended. Either bring a good quality map or GPS navigation system and mark out your routes and rest stops in advance of the hike.</p>

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The best hiking and trekking trips and excursions in Italy, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

Design your perfect hiking trip with a local expert in Italy

Hiking in Italy

Hiking & Trekking

Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy | Tailor-Made Travel

The best local travel agencies in Italy for island vacations

Tour ideas for exploring Italy's islands

The best island vacations and island-hopping tours in Italy, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

Design your perfect island vacation in Italy with a local expert

Italy island vacations

Islands & Island-Hopping

Island Vacations in Italy | Explore Italy's Islands

The best local travel agencies in Italy for snorkeling and diving tours

Diving and snorkeling tour ideas in Italy

The best snorkeling and diving tours in Italy, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

Experience diving in Italy with a hand-picked local expert

Diving in Italy

Snorkeling & Diving

Diving & Snorkeling Tours in Italy | Diving Excursions

The best local travel agencies in Italy for biking trips

Tour ideas for exploring Italy by bike

The best cycling trips and bike excursions in Italy, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

Apostolic Palace Vacations

Apostolic Palace: How to get there?

Apostolic Palace: When to go?

Apostolic Palace: For how long?

Apostolic Palace: What to see in the surroundings?