Name: Highlights of the Italian Lakes
Brand: Costsaver
Rating: 4.5 (255 reviews)

DON'T TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT

ESSENTIAL ITALY BUCKET LIST ITEMS BY US

An Italy guided tour with Costsaver shows you all the iconic sights you can't miss, from the great Colosseum in Rome and the Ponte Vecchio in Florence to the dreamy canals of Venice.

TAKE IN THE VIEWS OF THE MIGHTY COLOSSEUM IN ROME

Go back in time on your trip to Rome with a sightseeing tour of the city's historic icons with your Local Specialist. One of the most memorable stops is the mighty Colosseum, where you'll see the famous outside walls, then have time to explore on your own. It's one of Italy's most impressive sites and if you listen closely, you can still imagine the roars of the crowd coming from inside this ancient amphitheatre.

SEE CATHEDRAL OF SANTA MARIA DEL FIORE IN FLORENCE

Take to the cobbled streets of Florence on a walking tour to learn the secrets of the city with your Local Specialist by your side. We won't miss viewing the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, or as the locals call it, The Duomo. Be sure to snap some shots of the famous dome, an ancient piece of architectural genius that was way ahead of its time.

CRUISE ALONG THE VENICE CANALS TO ST. MARK'S SQUARE

Italy sightseeing doesn't get much better than this. Prepare for the magic of exploring Venice from its best angle as we take you on a private scenic cruise through the gorgeous canals to St. Mark’s Square. Jaws will drop at the sight of the Basilica of St. Mark, the Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs, the last beautiful view of Venice that prisoners saw before being taken to their cells.

ITALY TAILORED BY YOU

Create your own rules on a tailor made vacation to Italy with our range of Optional Experiences. Choose from adventures like cruising Lake Como, seeing Juliet’s Balcony in Verona, or visiting Siena for the Palio horse race.

Tamsin B.

Costsaver team member

LAKE GARDA BOAT TRIP DISCOVERY

I loved our scenic boat trip around the largest of the Italian Lakes - it's definitely worth doing. We enjoyed views of mountains, lush countryside and stunning blue waters as you cross the lake, taking in cute towns along the way. We stopped at a beautiful town called Limone for a drink and explore then back on the boat to Malcesine where we stayed for dinner. I wouldn't have known how to get to these places if we'd not added this experience to the trip.

Kelsey F

Costsaver team member

EAT YOUR WAY THROUGH ITALY

I don't know anyone that's been to Italy and hasn't fallen in love with it! Hardly unusual but my favorite thing by a mile is the food. Florentine steak in Tuscany, Cacio e Pepe in Rome and amazing tiramisu and gelato on pretty much every corner! I found so many incredible pizza places and cafes just by wandering through the cutest back streets!

Maria O.

Costsaver team member

DISCOVER THE BORROMEAN ISLANDS LAKE MAGGIORE

We joined a private boat and got to see some of the beautiful islands of Lake Maggiore. On Isola Bella we visited the magnificent palace and gardens of the Borromean Princes which was amazing. There were also some lovely coffees shops and restaurants where we could relax and soak up the beautiful surroundings. I wouldn't have thought to do this myself so I am glad it was an optional experience and one I truly recommend.

WHAT TO EAT & DRINK IN ITALY

Get ready to loosen your belt as you eat your way through Italy. We’ll show you the best places to munch on traditional pizzas, feast on creamy carbonaras and raise a glass of fine Tuscan wine.

CARBONARA

Foodie travelers will soon appreciate that nothing can beat an authentic carbonara from its birthplace in Italy. It's one of the country's favorite dishes, traditionally made with spaghetti, egg, black pepper, guanciale (similar to bacon) and piles of pecorino cheese.
APEROL SPRITZ

The Aperol Spritz is one of the most popular cocktails in Italy, and a great way to cool down at apperitivo hour. This iconic bright orange cocktail is made from Aperol, prosecco and soda water. Enjoy your Aperol Spritz served in a glass full of ice and topped with a sweet slice of orange.
PIZZA NAPOLETANA

Like the name suggests, originating from Naples, Pizza Napoletana is a traditional style of pizza made with fresh and simple ingredients. Don't let the lack of toppings fool you - you'll love the taste as you tuck in to a soft dough, topped with raw tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil.

WHEN IS BEST TO VISIT ITALY

Italy is the place to be all year round. Whether you want to take an Italy cruise across the lakes in summer, visit the blooming Tuscan vineyards in autumn, or see the snowy Alps in winter, Italy is a dream 365 days a year.

BEST TIME TO VISIT THE TUSCAN HILLS

The scenic autumn months are the best time to snap some gorgeous shots of Tuscany, with fields and vineyards lit up in red, gold and orange. We also love Tuscany in summer and spring for beautiful weather and pretty scenery.
BEST TIME TO VISIT ITALY’S BEACHES

Sunshine, colorful beach umbrellas and lazy days... If you’re dreaming of a beach holiday in Positano, Amalfi or Sicily, try visiting in May or September. You’ll miss the summer crowds and it’s still warm enough to swim.
BEST TIME FOR AN ITALY CITY BREAK

The best time to explore the major cities like Rome, Venice, Florence and Milan is autumn or spring, when temperatures are pleasant and the crowds have thinned.

PACKING TIPS FOR ITALY

HOW TO TRAVEL RESPONSIBLY IN ITALY

Bring a reusable cup

Italy has some of the world’s best coffee and it’s best enjoyed in a mug. Enjoy your brew at the cafe or if you’re on the go, bring a reusable cup.

Support local shops

Support local artisans and shop for souvenirs from independently-owned shops and markets rather than chains. When you buy locally, you’re helping keep alive the centuries-old artisan traditions of Italy.

Taste the local delicacies

The best way to enjoy Italy’s divine cuisine is by eating at locally-owned restaurants. You’ll get to taste delicious regional delicacies, support local farms and learn about different food traditions.