Taylored Tours will help you discover the hidden side of Italy, as well as the key highlights.
Italy's unrivalled cultural heritage, diverse landscapes and celebrated food and wine make it an unmissable destination. There are so many superb places to go, it can be difficult to know where to begin, but Taylored Tours can help you create an itinerary that reflects your interests, takes in the main sights and reveals some of Italy's lesser-known charms.
Whether you wish to travel with a group, hire a private chauffeur, or drive yourself, Taylored Tours will help make your trip to Italy memorable. If your desire is to discover artistic masterpieces in the churches and galleries of Florence, uncover Rome’s iconic sites, relax on the Amalfi Coast, or learn to cook traditional Italian pasta in Tuscany, we will set you on the right track. Your route will be ”taylored” to your own interests. Taylored Tours will help you discover the hidden side of Italy, as well as the key highlights.
I’m Cindi Taylor, the founder of Taylored Tours. I am based in Durango, Colorado and I cater to clients all over the country. I started Taylored Tours because I believe deeply in the power of travel. Anything I can do to get you out exploring the world makes me happy!
Taylored Tours offers custom travel planning services to destinations around the globe, full of immersive experiences.
I bring my expertise and passion into meticulously planning Italy vacations that leave our clients immersed in the breathtaking landscapes, delicious cuisine, and rich history of Italy. My extensive knowledge and insider relationships provide a unique and enriching vacation experience, ”taylored” just for you.
Ready to see the world and immerse yourself in new experiences and cultures?
Spring
Temperatures start to warm up in spring, going from the late teens to mid-twenties, although it’s still advisable to wear layers in case of colder spells.
Summer
The summer months of July and August see higher temperatures and visitor numbers reach their peak. Temperatures are normally around 81 °F and often reach over 88 °F at the height of the day.
Fall
Temperatures cool down gradually, so September is still very pleasant, with an average of around 77℉. Expect crisp fall leaves and some sunnier days, but plan for wet weather too.
Winter
Temperatures in the south remain mild in winter. However, northern Italy is normally wet and cold, and it’s not unusual for snow to fall, especially in the mountains.
Italy is organized in 20 regioni (Italian administrative regions).
Each regione has a main city, called capoluogo di regione, and is subdivided into smaller areas called provincie (provinces), each of them with a local capital (capoluogo di provincia).
The regions of Italy are an important part of Italian identity and you often hear them mentioned when discussing where someone is from and they also often come up in talks about travel and itineraries, which can be of use to you when we plan your Italy trip!
Some regions are known as travel destinations, Tuscany and Sicily being the perfect example of this, while others are overshadowed by some of their most famous locations.
A rural region with beautiful countryside, mountains, and beaches. This is a great place to “get away from it all” enjoy an active, outdoor vacation in the Italian outdoors.
Located in the northwest corner of Italy in between France, Switzerland, and Piedmont, the Aosta Valley is mountainous and picturesque. The Alps cut through this autonomous region, adding to its allure. This is a great destination for history buffs who love castles and ruins, anyone who wants to get out of the heat (even the summers can be chilly here thanks to the mountains), and anyone interested in sampling the multicultural side of Italy.
The “instep” of Italy’s boot, Basilicata is large and rural. The area’s most-visited city is Matera, where the Neolithic cave dwellings pull fascinated visitors. Basilicata is also filled with forests, lakes, and small villages. It is a good destination for and active holiday if you are traveling on a budget.
Calabria sits near the tip of Italy’s boot and offers plenty of idyllic beaches. Like Basilicata, it is also mountainous and has a low population density, so it is a good option for travelers on a budget who are not looking for a crowded city experience.
Italy’s second most populous region, Campania is the place to go for a sun-soaked holiday on the bustling coast. From Naples to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast, Campania covers it all.
A wealthy region that spans the north of the country, Emilia-Romagna covers cities including Bologna, Ferrara, and Modena. This is the region to visit for some of Italy’s most famous cuisine, most beautiful coastlines, and Renaissance cities.
This very small autonomous region is tucked away near Austria and Slovenia. It offers both seaside and Alps and is a great destination for a unique experience from the rest of Italy!
Italy’s central region and home to the capital city of Rome, Lazio offers sandy beaches, small mountains, medieval towns, lakes, and archeological sites. This destination is a must-see for history buffs and art lovers.
A hilly region with a long shoreline along the Adriatic, Le Marche’s tourism crowd is attracted for its beaches and mountains. This destination is ideal for hiking and other outdoor summer activities.
Famous for its seaside, Liguria has a storied history. Tourists are drawn to the area for the resort towns of Cinque Terre and Portofino but a huge draw is also the capital city of Genoa, which was the hometown of Christopher Columbus.
In the north of Italy, bordering Switzerland, Lombardy is the country’s wealthiest, most populous region. The capital, Milan, is the second largest city in Italy. Lombardy also offers the Lake District, which has destinations such as Lake Como, Maggiore, and Garda.
Molise is the country’s newest region. It is mainly agricultural and produces wine, olive oil, dairy, fruit, and vegetables. Tourism isn’t well-developed here yet, so it’s a great choice for off-grid vacationing in authentic small towns.
Though it is surrounded by the Alps on three sides, most of this region is actually on a flat plain. It produces rice and wine, making the region a must-visit for food aficionados. The area is also ideal for anyone who loves winter sports.
Located on the heel of Italy’s boot, Puglia is known for its beautiful beaches and countryside as well as its excellent food and unique architecture. A favorite summer destination for Italians, this is an ideal destination for anyone who wants a true taste of the Mediterranean lifestyle.
An island located west and south of Corsica features stunning beaches, gripping nightlife, and buzzy resort towns. Head inland for a tranquil agricultural area with a small-town feel.
The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily is its own world. Go for the sunny climate, natural beauty, ancient history, beaches, and unique culture.
This area is also known as Trentino-South Tyrol and is a gorgeous, autonomous region in northern Italy that used to be part of Austria-Hungary. It has its own special culture and is a great destination for active travelers who want to visit the mountains and see the sights!
Renowned for its food, wine, towns, and countryside, Tuscany is famous for the bounty of the region. If you are looking for a quintessential Italian getaway, look no further, Tuscany has it all.
Located next to Tuscany, Umbria also offers gorgeous countryside, hilltop towns, olive and wine vineyards, and a history that reaches back to the Etruscans. Umbria is a little less touristy than Tuscany and a great choice if you’re looking to get farther away from the crowds.
One of Italy’s most developed regions, this region produces some of Italy’s most famous wines including Prosecco, Valpolicella, and Soave. The region’s most popular towns to visit include Venice, Verona, Vicenza, Belluno, and Padua.
Bursting with culture, history, exceptional cuisine, breathtaking landscapes, and iconic landmarks, Italy is undoubtedly one of the most coveted holiday destinations on the globe. Whether you're a history buff looking to marvel at ancient ruins, a wine enthusiast seeking the country's vineyard-cloaked hills, or a food lover eager to dive into Italian culinary delights, our guides provide everything you need to make your trip exceptional.
Discover the wonders of Florence, Italy, with our concise guide! Delve into its history, art, cuisine, and architecture at renowned locales like Duomo and Piazzale Michelangelo, and enjoy our help managing your exploration time.
This guide is designed to enhance your Roman holiday, offering insider tips, quintessential experiences, and helpful insights to ensure an unforgettable voyage. We hope to make your trip as memorable as it can be - after all, Rome wasn't explored in a day!
This guide will take you on a deep dive into the heart of Venice's seductive allure, providing insider tips, must-visit sights, hidden gems, culinary delights, and much more. Embrace the adventure and enjoy this timeless city in your own exploratory voyage to Venice!
Whether you're an exploratory traveller wishing to unearth hidden historic gems, a food lover yearning for the luscious tastes of Italian cuisine, or a beach lover seeking the tranquillity of the Mediterranean, our Bari Travel Guide is your trusted companion. Get ready to embark on a memorable journey!
Whether you are a culture enthusiast, a history buff, a food lover or simply someone seeking an authentic Italian experience, let this guide be your reliable compass to the unforgettable adventures Naples promise to deliver.
Whether it’s old-world traditions and wonderful culture, cuisine, history, fashion or natural beauty, Italy is special to many people for different reasons. Few other countries boast so many legendary cities. There are also many charming hill towns and coastal villages that showcase Italy’s amazing natural beauty. From the big cities to the small towns, there is always something exciting to see in Italy. With so many reasons to visit, the rest is up to you!
The fascinating medieval city of Lucca is surrounded by 16th-century Renaissance walls. Choose to see it by bike or on foot, but either way will bring you to see the Cathedral of San Martino, the Piazza Napoleone and the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, all sites you simply should not miss.
Tuscan people are absolutely obsessed with their bread and olive oil. When in Tuscany, make sure you begin your meal with a beautifully toasted slice of bread that’s been rubbed with garlic, generously brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with just a hint of salt. You will melt with delight.
On a beautiful day, take a boat trip from the stunning Amalfi Coast to the lovely Mediterranean island of Capri. There, a local expert will bring you on a tour of a dreamy place that can only be described as paradise on earth.
Just about anywhere you go in Italy, you’re going to encounter fantastic wine. Whether you’re in Tuscany, Stresa, Piedmont, Umbria or any other region of this beautiful country, taste the wine. Buy a few bottles and bring it home to enjoy with friends and family.
A cultural powerhouse famed for its legendary art and architecture, glorious landscapes and gourmet food and wine, Italy offers you a wealth of experiences. When Taylored Tours designs your Italy vacation, we include immersive activities that offer a deeper insight into the country's most famous attractions and give a local perspective on life in this fascinating destination.
Enjoy our travel blogs featuring travel tips, packing guides, destination inspiration and more!
Drive through hilly green vineyards speckled with terracotta-roofed villas, travel back in time as you walk through winding stone streets of medieval villages, and see the iconic landmarks of Florence and Pisa – all while enjoying some delicious gelato, of course!
Pouring over Italian destinations from Stanley Tucci’s travels, such as Rome, Naples, the Amalfi Coast, Sicily, and Tuscany, I meticulously map out a travel itinerary that combines these famous spots with hidden gems I’ve come across in my years of travel planning.
My journey through Puglia was truly a feast for the senses. From the captivating landscapes to the warm-hearted locals, every moment was filled with wonder and discovery. The experiences and partnerships that I built during this trip have equipped me with invaluable insights that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experiences of my clients.
Puglia is one of the largest and most populated of the 20 regions, yet it remains an enigma to many outside of Italy. The region is divided into 6 different communes, all of which harbor many reasons to visit. Here are my Top 10 Reasons to Visit Puglia…
One notable aspect that sets Puglia apart from other regions in Italy is the spread-out nature of its towns. Unlike some other popular destinations where towns and attractions are close together, Puglia’s towns are more dispersed, requiring a bit more planning and logistics to explore the region fully.
We compiled this list with some of our must-haves for an amazing Italian adventure.
Let’s talk about what to pack, especially when limited to a carry-on and a backpack (no need to check bags!). In this blog, we’ll guide you through the essentials for your Amalfi Coast adventure, ensuring you have everything you need while traveling light.
On Italy’s sun-drenched Mediterranean coast, hillside vineyards, fragrant lemon groves and jewel-tone towns combine to make a picture-perfect destination. Planning a trip to the coast with the most? Here’s a guide to help you make the most out of your trip.
Venice – the canal-filled fantasyland of cuisine and culture. Here are some fun free things to do so you can spend less on sightseeing and more on gelato.
When it comes eating, Italians take their food very seriously. Each region of Italy has a specialty and knowing what’s good where you are can take your experience from good to great!
Wonder where the locals go to get away from the tourists? These 5 spots shine all on their own and are another way to make the eternal city unforgettable.
Siena is, hands down, a cultural capital of Tuscany. Famous for its fan-shaped central square and its annual Palio Horse Race, this medieval brick city is a drenched in history and local pride. Stroll through storybook streets filled with amazing churches, shops, restaurants, and towers.
Travel to Cinque Terre in Italy and explore five magical towns. Swim between fishing boats and dive among aqua blue crystal waters. Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso all offer unique experiences.
An island located west and south of Corsica, it features stunning beaches, gripping nightlife, and buzzy resort towns. Or you could head inland for a tranquil agricultural area with a small-town feel. You’ll find beauty around every corner in Sardinia!
Italy, with its diverse landscapes, captivating history, and delectable cuisine, offers endless opportunities for exploration. However, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and try to fit in as much as possible during your visit. Incorporating riposo into your itinerary ensures that you have time to pause, savor the moment, and truly absorb the Italian way of life.
Every country has its own customs and cultural expectations. Here are some valuable tips on what to do and what NOT to do while traveling in Italy, ensuring that your trip is memorable for all the right reasons.
When you’re planning a trip to Italy, one of the important things you need to decide is how to get around. Here are several options for transportation in Italy.
All aboard! Hopping from city to city? Take the train! Italy's rail system is modern, clean, and timely. Simply purchase a train ticket from an electronic machine or a ticket teller, then be sure to validate it before boarding. This means: look for the small rectangular and/or green boxes around the train station and stamp your ticket before you step on.
The best way to see Italy is to walk around. From street art to beautiful statues to hidden restaurants, you never know what you might find around every corner! If your legs get way too tired, there are always cabs in larger cities - however, cabs aren't treated the same way as yellow NYC taxis. You don't really "hail" a cab on command, you either need to go to a taxi stand or call a cab company to come pick you up.
While Italy's trains go most places, they don't go everywhere. Hop on a regional bus (autobus) and see all of those out-of-the-way towns and national parks you've dreamed about! Many bus terminals or "autostazione" are conveniently located right next to train stations, so don't worry about transferring from train to bus, or vice-versa. Purchase tickets at the bus terminal immediately before you travel for most local trips. If you're taking a long bus trip, check online - you may be able to purchase tickets in advance.
Using the bus just to putz around the city? City buses are usually a cheap way to sightsee, usually costing only about 1 euro! Tickets for city buses are usually available at newsstands and tobacco shops, so look for the "biglietti" sign, meaning "tickets."
Whether you're navigating the countless canals of Venice or hopping the towns of the Cinque Terre, see spectacular views from a completely unique perspective - a boat! Glide across the waters in Venice, Lake Como, Capri, Cinque Terre, and more. While most boat tickets are fairly inexpensive, the views are absolutely priceless.
What better way to see Italy than gliding around on a bike?! It's quick, it's scenic, and you sure get your exercise in - which allows for more pizza and pasta, right? Biking through villages or cities is beautiful, but be on the lookout and be careful of crowds. Make sure your bike has a bell!
Another open-air option: immerse yourself in the magic of Italy and splurge on renting a Vespa! In this country, everybody rides these iconic scooters - from kids to "nonnas." Keep in mind that you will need some training before riding and Vespas aren't built for long hours of travel. But, they're perfect for zipping around the city for an afternoon! Buckle your helmet and feel the warm breeze in your hair!
There's almost nothing better than cruising down the Amalfi coast with the windows down. Be mindful, however, that Italy's beautiful landscapes come with mountainous terrain and winding roads. As long as you use a little extra caution, having a car in Italy grants you an amazing amount of freedom to roam far and wide.
However, if you are thinking of driving in Italy you’ll need to be aware of some important differences to the conditions you experience at home:
If you’re planning on driving while in Italy, you’ll need to get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Drivers are required by law to carry an International Driving Permit with their driver’s license.
If you’re not keen on driving, you might consider a private driver.
Know Before You Go...
What are the taxes like?
Italy charges visitors a tourist tax. This can range anywhere from €1 to €5 per person per night depending on the type and “luxury level” of the accommodations. In Rome 5-star hotels are allowed to charge up to a €7 tax per person, per night. In most regions, there is a cap on how many nights this tax can be applied, but it is good to be aware of your specific region’s rules prior to travel.
Travelers are also subject to VAT. The standard rate of the VAT (value Added Tax) in Italy is currently 22% for most goods and services. You are eligible for a VAT refund at the end of your vacation if you’ve spent a minimum of €154.94 in one place. There are additional rules and regulations for claiming VAT refunds, so if you plan to do some large-scale shopping in Italy and are interested in re-claiming your VAT, read up on the information here.
Do they speak English?
The official language of Italy is Italian but many Italians do, in fact, speak English. Even though you may be in a big city with lots of tourists, it is still polite to learn key phrases in the local dialect and open conversations with that. As a guest in another country, do your best to use their language.
What is the tipping policy?
Tipping isn’t always necessary in Italy. There is no rule set in stone, so you have to pay attention in each situation to know what to do. In cafes, you can leave change or round up to the nearest euro on the total bill. In bars, rounding up to the nearest euro per drink is acceptable. When dining at a restaurant, the tip is sometimes included in the final bill (servizio incluso), but not always. If it’s not, 10-15% is encouraged.
Whan to tip in Italy and how much to tip:
Restaurant: A few Euro, up to 10% of the bill. Leave cash on the table when leaving or tell your waiter to keep the change.
Coffee at a ‘bar’: Up to 20c. Leave a coin in the tipping jar if available or hand the coin when placing your order
Brunch, sit down breakfast, small sit down meal, aperitivo with food: 1-2 Euro, up to 10% of the bill. Leave cash on the table when leaving or tell your waiter to keep the change.
Taxi drivers (short trips): Round up the charge up to a couple of euro. Tell the driver to keep the change or give cash.
Tour guides (free tours): Whatever you feel appropriate for the service. Give cash at the end of the tour.
Tour guides (paid tours): Only if they are not the owner of the business Anything between 5 Euro and 5-10% of the cost of the tour. Give cash at the end of the tour.
Hotel porters: 1 Euro per bag, usually up to 5 Euro
Hotel housekeeping: Appreciated for longer stays, 1 Euro per day of stay is common. Give cash at the end of the stay to the attendant or via the reception desk.
I get asked this one a lot: “If we don’t know the total price of a tour or excursion, how much is 10% to tip?” I don't really have a correct answer about the tipping prices because I only receive one lump sum price for the whole trip from my travel partner in Italy (the services are not broken down), but here's a good guide to tipping:
If you are happy with the service you have enjoyed and would like to show your gratitude to the people who have helped make it a very special experience for you, here below you can find the amounts we recommend for Tour Guides, Drivers and other special services:
• Tour Guide Half Day - Euros 20 - 40
• Tour Guide Full Day - Euros 30 - 50
• Transfer (Driver) - Euros 15
• Driver Half Day - Euros 20 - 40
• Driver Full Day - Euros 30 - 50
The above amounts are to be considered per service and not per person.
What kind of money is used there?
Italy uses the Euro, just like the rest of Europe. When traveling in the country, it's a good idea to bring your own euros, as long lines and limits on ATMs make it somewhat tricky to take out money. Speaking of ATMs, it's always a good idea to only take money out of labeled bank ATMs, just for your own peace of mind (see below).
What kind of adapters do I need?
Standard electricity in Italy is 230 volts alternating at 50 cycles per second. You will need a step-down power converter or transformer to safely step the voltage down from 220 to the 110 volts that most American electronics are wired for. You will also need a plug adapter that works with socket types F and L, which are the typical sockets you’ll find in Italy.
Can I drink the tap water?
Yes! The tap water in Italy is safe to drink and readily available almost everywhere from public water fountains. Some people don’t like the taste of the tap water and opt for bottled instead. I suggest bringing your own water bottle.
Will my cell phone work?
It is very likely that your cell phone will work. If you plan on using your phone while traveling, it’s a good idea to purchase an International Plan. If you have WiFi access, apps like WhatsApp are useful to help avoid massive charges.
Do I need my passport?
Yes!
What if I need medical help?
For life-threatening emergencies, please call 1-1-2. For non-threatening illnesses or injuries or illnesses, you can visit a clinic, pharmacy, or hospital. You can find more information on medical emergencies while in Italy here.
Where should I get Euros when traveling in Europe?
NEVER get € Euros from an EXCHANGE KIOSK - these are a scam and charge high fees and have awful exchange rates.
ALWAYS use an ATM associated with the country - a local bank that has an atm attached to their building is the best.
In a pinch, in Googlemaps, just type in "ATMs around me"
Also, do NOT take American dollars thinking you can exchange these at a bank, the banks are not the same as in America, unless you have an account with them, they will NOT exchange dollars for Euros.
- On the ATM, change the language to English and then begin, if the machine asks you if you want to have the exchange in dollars --- (CHOOSE NO, continue without conversion) your home bank will have a better conversion rate - this is especially true in Italy.
What is Riposo?
Riposo is essentially the Italian equivalent of a siesta, a midday break when shops close and workers go home to have a long lunch or even take a refreshing nap before heading back out to finish their day. Riposo is usually the time between 1:30pm and 4pm during the week. Most stores and business close for riposo. Store hours are typically 9am-1:30pm and 4pm-7pm. In small towns throughout Italy, riposa might even last until 4 or 5pm. Restaurants might not open again until 6-8pm.
What tips do you have about Shopping?
When entering a store it is customary to greet the shop owner with a hello/Buon Giorno/Buonasera
What do I need to know about Dining Out?
Italians eat at different schedules and meal choices.
Breakfast - typically a sweet, croissant (Pistachio and lemon cream is regional) and a caffe.
Lunch - Lunch is served between 12-2p.m. ALMOST ALL restaurants are closed between 2 - 6 p.m. (See above about Riposo.) IF YOU MISS LUNCH, you can find snacks (chips and nuts at local Enotecas/Taverns and drinks only)
Dinner - dinner is served from 6:30/7p.m. until late. Most Romans/Italians do not begin eating dinner until 7:30 p.m. and most do NOT eat all six courses. Most Italians eat a starter (small vegetables) and a prima (first plate - pasta dish) or a seconda (meat dish) and SPLIT a dolce (sweet) at the end.
✅ ASK FOR the house wine (Vino di Casa) The house red/white wine is typically very, very good and the most expensive. Unless there is a particular meal/meat dish, most Italians do not order bottles of wine. The Vino di Casa also comes in a small carafe or a large (the small usually is 3 glasses) and the large is about 5.
DIGESTIV
After your meal, it is customary in Italy to receive a Digestive (or a liquor) to help digest your rich meal. Depending on your location, it might be Ramazotti (licorice base) or Limoncello (Rome to Amalfi) these are complimentary and do help process the pasta.
COPERTA
At almost every restaurant in Italy there is a "coperta" or Cover Charge. It is typically between €2-5 Euros for the bread that is served at your table prior to your meal arriving. It also ensures that the restaurant makes a little money if you just come to sit at the table. This is in addition to the order you place.
Some restaurants you can ask for non-coperto but between Rome and Amalfi it is almost mandatory.
Is Italy safe?
Most people who travel to Italy wind up coming home with everything they came with - and more, if you add in souvenirs. It is true that Italian cities and trains, however, are notorious for pickpocketing. Keep your bags zipped, don't keep your wallet in your back pocket, and don't flash lots of cash in public - just as a precaution. Don't give a thief the chance to swipe your stuff!
In the event of theft (Passport)
It is important to have your passport number to expedite an EMERGENCY PASSPORT - here are the steps of obtaining an Emergency Passport while traveling in Italy
1) GET a police report (this is a MUST) - you must visit the Policia and file a police report (retain a copy for yourself)
2) Visit the closest American Embassy Consulate - in Rome
+1 970.335.8670
cindi@tayloredtours.com
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