Holidays in Italy

Base yourself in Montecatini to visit some of northern Tuscany's best sights. This beautiful region is very varied with the Tuscan Apennine mountains in the north, wide open valleys and rolling vineyard-covered hills to the south of Florence.

Great for: challenging, moderate and easy walks; culture lovers; nature lovers

The Portofino area's the perfect combination of glamour, wealth and rustic charm. The towns around Portofino have the most amazing atmosphere. The coastal bars and restaurants are buzzing in the summer time and there are always people milling about the harbours.

Great for: moderate walks

Clusters of brightly coloured mountain-side buildings characterise the incredible Cinque Terre area. Just minutes from the sea and surrounded by challenging walking trails, you'll be spoilt for choice with activities to do on your holiday.

Great for: challenging, moderate walks

Surrounded by green countryside of vineyards and orchards Bardolino is a perfect for a sophisticated getaway. The long promenade stretches along the lakefront and is filled with restaurants offering al fresco dining.

Great for: easy walking; activities; sightseeing; food & drink

Garda has winding alleyways and characteristic palazzi - it's one of the most charming towns on the lake. The wide lakeside promenade makes it a popular choice with walkers and cyclists too.

Great for: easy walking; activities; sightseeing

This is one of Lake Garda's most elegant resorts - think stunning villas, upmarket restaurants and a leafy promenade. It's a also a great base for nature lovers with the nearby Heller Botanical Gardens.

Take a walk down the narrow lanes that run through the village and take a stop for an aperitif at one of many traditional restaurants. There are plenty of walking opportunities too, with paths leading up into the mountains and lemon groves.

Great for: all walking abilities; nature; sightseeing

Malcesine is one of Lake Garda's prettiest towns, thanks to its recognisable 13th Century castle. Cobbled streets and little cafés give it a really romantic feel. It's also a great place to go if you're looking for an active holiday. The cable car goes to the top of Monte Baldo where you can set off on a mountain hike or bike ride. Head down the coast slightly and you can try some paddle boarding or even learn how to sail.

Lake Garda’s northernmost town has dramatic mountain landscapes and an atmospheric piazza. It's one of the best resorts for thrill-seekers too with windsurfing, sailing and scuba diving in the water. Not to mention some of the best hiking and cycling trails in the mountains. It's an adventurer's paradise.

Salò is a lovely Belle Epoque town full of cafés, townhouses and hotels. Its history dates back to the Romans and Venetians.

Sirmione's one of the prettiest towns on Lake Garda with a fairytale-like castle leading to quaint cobbled streets. It’s a renowned spa destination, using thermal waters that have been enjoyed since Roman times. It’s also a fantastic place to sample authentic gelato with loads of gelaterie serving some of the best ice cream on the lake.

Bellagio is one of the most picturesque towns on the lake. Its narrow streets lead up the mountainside, past bustling shops and restaurants, where you’ll be greeted with amazing views over the ink-blue waters.

With its picture-perfect location hugging the shore of Lake Como, Lenno is a great choice for those looking to get away from it all. The highlight of this village is the lovely promenade that’s lined with al fresco cafés.

Menaggio is an elegant town that’s been established since Roman times. It’s surrounded by grand villas and its terracotta-roofed houses contrast beautifully with the blue of the lake and greenery of the mountainside.

Baveno's been a well-known tourist resort since the early 19th century. It has fantastic views of the Borromean Islands, a small harbour, and a lakeside promenade. This is the perfect base for getting to know Lake Maggiore and its towns and islands.

Great for: all walking abilities; friends & couples; nature; sightseeing

Stylish Stresa is Lake Maggiore’s leading resort. You can easily head out sightseeing using the local ferry links. The Borromean Islands and the gardens of Villa Pallavicino and Villa Taranto are well worth a visit.

Great for: all walking abilities; friends & couples; nature; sightseeing

Hike in the shadow of Mount Sassolungo, walk along flower-filled meadows or simply sit and enjoy local food and 360 degree views in a mountain hut.

Great for: all walking abilities; family holidays; nature; activities; food & drink

Canazei is the jewel of Val di Fassa and a summer paradise for walking and outdoor activity lovers. Home to the highest plateau in Europe this is a fantastic place for immersing yourself in the dominating Dolomite landscape.

Great for: all walking abilities; families; nature; activities

Corvara is the largest village in Alta Badia and just along the road is Colfosco. Both resorts are at the foot of some of the most famous mountains in the area. You’ll have two national parks to explore while you’re here. It’s perfect for hikers and cyclists and the food is some of the best in the Dolomites.

Good for: Easy, moderate and challenging hikes, active holidays

Merano is sheltered by high mountains and surrounded by orchards and vineyards, meaning it has an alpine landscape and Mediterranean climate: the perfect combination for a summer holiday. Walking opportunities are available from the centre of town, or up in the mountains - you'll be spoilt for choice here. 

Best for: All walking abilities, nature, sightseeing, food & drink

Ortisei's a beautiful village in the Italian Dolomites. It's the perfect base for walking, cycling and those who love to explore. 

Kronplatz, also known as Plan de Corones, has some of the most spectacular scenery in Italy. Whether you're after an active adventure or a relaxing retreat to enjoy nature, this is a great choice for a summer holiday in the mountains. 

Beneath the impressive Lagazuoi Mountain, the sophisticated village of San Cassiano is the ideal starting point for many exciting hikes and climbs. When it comes to food, this is the perfect place to come if you're looking for a Michelin starred surprise!

The historic centre of Florence is small enough to explore on foot and has an enormous amount of treasures packed into its compact centre, from the Renaissance paintings in the celebrated Uffizi Gallery to Brunelleschi's Dome that dominates the skyline.

The fashionable Milan lives up to its title of the design capital of Italy. Stunning 19th Century buildings sit side by side with expensive designer stores which are framed by stylish bars.

With 3,000 years of history Rome truly is the ‘Eternal City’. Many of the wonders of this city are not in the museums but in the streets - in fact its entire historical centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This intricate city is widely known as the most romantic on earth and once you've seen it, you'll understand why. An intricate network of canals is broken up by quaint bridges, majestic palaces and grand piazzas framed by cosy cafés. Head outside the centre and you'll see another side to this popular city - local food markets offer a great option for an authentic lunch or head to one of the quiet islands that surround the Venetian Lagoon.

Think of Italian cities and most people’s first thought is of Venice. But visitors to its smaller neighbour, Verona never fail to be entranced by its beauty and relaxed atmosphere. Verona is best known of course for its historic Roman arena which every summer hosts the world famous opera programme.

Lake Iseo is the fourth largest lake in Northern Italy. It's quieter and less developed than Lake Garda; the perfect introduction to the Italian lakes. Travel around the lakeside towns by boat and explore Iseo's medieval streets, arcaded shopping areas and communal squares.

Great for: all walking abilities; activities; nature lovers; food & drink; couples & friends

Nestled in the mountains above Lake Garda you'll find Lake Ledro. The perfect place for walking, cycling and immersing yourself in nature.