…best for food!

If seeking the finest gastronomy in Italy, Bologna should be at the top of your travel bucket list. While also renowned for its mesmerising architecture, including streets lined with grand porticoes, terracotta-hued medieval buildings and cloister-wrapped piazzas, the major attraction of the city is its mouth-watering food scene. You’ll see why, as you stroll through Bologna’s oldest food market, Quadrilatero – a colourful series of alleyways lined with local street vendors, shops and eateries – and breathe in the aromatic scents of fresh fruits and vegetables as well as gourmet delis and pastries.

In addition to being universally recognised for producing tagliatelle al ragù Bolognese, other famous dishes originating in the city include tortellini in brodo and lasagna verde, both sumptuous pasta dishes which are well worth sampling. Bologna also arguably claims the finest charcuterie board in Italy, incorporating prosciutto and parmigiana from nearby Parma, in addition to Bologna’s own delectable range of cured meats and local cheeses. 

Why not check out our popular Bologna city break.

…best for wine!

Tuscany’s green rolling hills, blanketed with luscious vineyards and dotted with rustic farmhouses, set the scene for the perfect wine tasting countryside escape. While exploring the region, enjoy scenic drives along cypress alleys, through olive groves and past hazelnut tree-lined routes, stopping along the way for incredible photo opportunities.

An age-old staple of Italian industry, many of Tuscany’s wineries have operated for centuries, with the oldest established over 900 years ago. The wine estates often feature impressive grounds with rustic stonework architecture, manicured gardens, and panoramic alfresco dining terraces. Be sure to reserve a tasting at one or two to taste some of Tuscany’s finest wine, including Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, produced with smooth and full-bodied Sangiovese grapes.

Our Taste of Tuscany package is a fantastic choice for your dream Tuscan holiday.

…best for hiking!

Fall in love with Italy’s stunning seaside villages with a trip to the sparkling Amalfi Coast. As well as a prime destination for well-earned rest and relaxation, the Amalfi Coast has some magnificent cliff carved hiking routes, featuring sea views to die for and bright flora draped walkways. A particularly famous route, Path of the Gods, is a must do for hiking enthusiasts, spanning seven kilometres of moderate intensity trails connecting a couple of charming villages.

In your downtime, dive into the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea, dine on wood fired pizza di amalfitana, and people watch in the bustling pastel-coloured piazzas. A brilliant way to take on the Amalfi Coast is through one of our guided group tour packages, with all arrangements, routes and necessities taken care of, leaving you to simply enjoy the marvellous walks and views. Why not end your hiking trip by celebrating the local way, with a shot of regional limoncello?

Check out one of our bestselling Amalfi Coast group walking tours.

…best for history!

As the ancient centre of the Roman Empire, the seat of the Roman Catholic Church, and home to some of the most impressive historic sites in the world, a city break in Rome will leave you inspired by its incredible antiquity.

No visit to Rome is complete without seeing perhaps its most impressive historic landmark, Rome’s nearly 2,000-year-old Colosseum. Afterwards, discover the centre of ancient Roman public life with a walk through the Roman Forum, an ethereal complex filled with significant remains of temples, monuments and arches. Finally, opt for a skip the line tour of St Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel to discover the jaw-dropping artwork, architecture and history of the Vatican.

Round off your trip to Rome by treating yourself to local favourites – pasta carbonara and tiramisu! As the saying goes… ‘when in Rome’!

We offer a brilliant range of historical trips to Rome.

…best for beaches!

Look no further than Costa Smeralda - Sardinia, if in search of crystal clear waters, powder like white sand beaches and striking rocky outcrops. Get immersed into la dolce vita during a stay here, snorkelling in spectacular marine protected waters, strolling along the delightful beachfront promenades, and absorbing the warm rays of the Mediterranean sun on your beach lounger, cocktail in hand. 

Make the most of Sardinia’s incredible scenery with a guided walk along Costa Smeralda’s coastal paths - stumbling upon picture perfect coves, or take part in adventurous activities including jet skiing, biking and sea kayaking, and see Sardinia’s spectacular beaches from a breathtaking vantage point by opting for a captivating catamaran tour. Dine at restaurants dotted along the seafront, or explore the coasts clubs, discos and bars for a taste of the island’s vibrant nightlife.

Check out our range of fantastic beach resorts in Sardinia.

…best for honeymoons!

With its gorgeous canals, striking Saint Mark’s Basilica and beautiful Doge’s Palace, it is no wonder that the floating city of Venice sits atop the list of popular honeymoon destinations. During your stay, meander charming cobblestone alleyways, passing by picturesque piazzas, eclectic boutiques and fine dining restaurants. Incorporate a day trip to the wondrous island of Murano to observe the island’s fascinating centuries-old tradition of glassmaking and stop off at Burano on your return to explore and photograph the island’s brightly coloured streets. 

Venice has an extraordinary range of unique hotels, ranging from cheerful, intimate hotels, such as the Ca’ dei Conti, a stone’s throw from St Mark’s Square, to formidable institutions, such as The Gritti Palace, overlooking the Grand Canal. Whatever your preferred style, budget and location, we can help you find your perfect hotel. Make your honeymoon extra memorable with a private Grand Canal boat tour, and glide past exquisite palaces, churches and gardens.

Take a look at our romantic Venetian honeymoon package.

…best for ski!

While also popular as a summer hiking destination, the Dolomites offer an unrivalled setting for ski and snowboarding holidays, featuring some of the most striking scenery in Europe. With its magical snow-blanketed mountain range, wide range of slopes for all abilities and fantastic ski centres, a winter escape here is hard to beat. 

Boasting quieter pistes than those in neighbouring Alpine countries, on the ski slopes of the Dolomites you can enjoy peaceful runs, laid-back lunches and modern ski lifts. Accommodation styles range from traditional Alpine chalets to great value hotels, to private self-catered apartments, so there are plentiful options to suit all. After making the most of the slopes, why not combine your ski holiday with a delightful city break to nearby Verona? 

Take a look at one of our top selling ski packages in the Dolomites, or explore our wider Inghams Ski offering.

…best for archaeology!

The vast, excavated city of Pompeii is a must-see destination for archaeology enthusiasts. Buried under ash and lava for centuries since the eruption of 79AD, today you can tour the remarkable site in the company of an expert local guide, wandering through ancient streets to observe original villas decorated with frescos and brightly coloured mosaics, in addition to remarkable Roman baths and a spectacular amphitheatre.

Combine your trip to Pompeii with a visit to Herculaneum, a nearby Roman town buried by the same eruption. While much smaller in scale than Pompeii, here, you can expect to see remarkably intact two story domus homes with original internal décor featuring wood and marble. Cap off your visit to the region with a trip to legendary Mount Vesuvius, where you can embark on a spectacular hike to the crater rim, offering unbelievable views over the Bay of Naples and the Italian countryside.

We offer a fabulous solo tour package, featuring a visit to these sites.

…best for luxury!

Experience the pinnacle of Italian hospitality at some of the country’s most esteemed hotels, situated on the Italian Riviera – home to colourful coastal villages, dazzling azure waters, and vibrant harbours. A holiday here could involve starting your day with a breezy boat tour along the stunning Tigullio coastline, spending your afternoon strolling the harbourfront promenade, before ending the day sampling freshly caught seafood at the candlelit restaurants on the piazza.

Tucked into Portofino’s harbour, The Splendido Mare makes for a supremely luxurious stay, in keeping with the distinguished Belmond brand. A highly sophisticated guest house in the town’s main piazza, the glamorous furnishings, exceptional service, and distinguished dining options provide an unparalleled level of comfort and enjoyment. Oozing equal charm and elegance, The Excelsior Palace Portofino Coast, a favourite with celebrities, in nearby Rapallo, features opulent design, magnificent dining venues and stunning infinity pools overlooking the harbour.

Why not check out our Portofino and Cinque Terre and Absolute Luxury Northern Italy packages.

…best for family fun!

Choose Lake Garda for your next family adventure, with its incredible Alpine scenery, magical lake views and idyllic lakeside towns. Family activities abound in Italy’s Lakes, with hiking, biking and horse riding on offer. Experience the tranquillity of being out on the water by taking part in numerous watersports such as kayaking, paddleboarding and boat rides. Afterwards, lounge on one of the picturesque lakeside beaches, gelato in hand.

If seeking the best views of Lake Garda, why not ride the phenomenal Monte Baldo cable car, transporting you above the beautiful valley below and delivering you to a stunning mountain-top, where you can enjoy a walk followed by picnic with a view? As well as perhaps combining a trip to Lake Garda with a few nights at Lake Como or Lake Maggiore, a trip to the region can also be enhanced by adding a city break to nearby Verona, Milan or Venice.

Check out our marvellous Italian Lakes package.

For more inspiration take a look at our Italy Holidays pages.