Italy

Esteemed around the world for its rich culture, romantic scenery and exquisite cuisine, Italy is a must-see destination for many Europe tours. Our Albatross small group tours to Italy from Australia have been specially designed to show you why Italy carries the nickname ‘Bel Paese’, or the ‘beautiful country’. It’s evident in the diverse landscapes, from the glacial lakes and Alps in the north to the stunning beaches and volcanic craters in the south.

The local people you’ll meet on our Italy tours are full of passion and are devoted to living life well. They love the finer things – majestic art, the best espresso, the most stylish cars, and impeccable architecture – which isn’t surprising, considering Italy’s past as the centre of the Roman Empire and the birthplace of the Renaissance.


Small-Group Tours Italy From Australia

Whether you’re looking for a northern Italy tour or a southern Italy tour, we have several itineraries that can take you through the many beautiful parts of the country. At Albatross Tours, we believe in providing well-paced, genuinely inclusive tours that offer authentic hotel accommodation and tour experiences specific to distinct areas. 

Our small group tours to Italy from Australia allow you to live, breathe and eat as Italians do in some of the world’s most beautiful destinations.

Europe & UK Summer

Smaller groups
maximum of 28

Italian Lakes & Tuscany

16 Wonderful Days
  • Start: Milan
  • Ends: Venice
  • Countries: Italy

Cruise to world famous Portofino and the hidden Abbey of San Fruttuoso.

Smaller group size
up to 28

Italy, Off The Beaten Track

15 Fascinating Days
  • Start: Mira
  • Ends: Rome
  • Countries: Italy

Stay 3 nights in a charming 16th century Palace in Ascoli Piceno.

Small group size, no more than 28

Leisurely Switzerland, the Glacier Express and Cable Car Adventures

15 Astonishing Days
  • Start: Milan
  • Ends: Zurich
  • Countries: Switzerland, Italy

Ride in panoramic carriages and enjoy private boat rides across spectacular lakes and alps

Smaller group size
no more than 28

An Alpine Adventure

16 Breathtaking Days
  • Start: Zurich
  • Ends: Milan
  • Countries: France, Italy, Switzerland

Ride in panoramic carriages on the amazing Glacier Express passing over chasms and through the mighty Alps

Smaller group size
up to 28

Sicily, Malta & Aeolian Islands

15 Captivating Days
  • Start: Palermo
  • Ends: Valletta
  • Countries: Malta, Sicily, Italy

Take a day cruise to explore delightful Panarea

Smaller group size
up to 28

Beautiful Slovenia & Croatia's Istrian Jewels

16 Magnificent Days
  • Start: Vienna
  • Ends: Venice
  • Countries: Slovenia, Croatia, Austria, Italy

Experience a truly authentic taste of Croatia and Slovenia

Small group tours, maximum 28

The Italian 'Grande'

18 Glorious Days
  • Start: Milan
  • Ends: Rome
  • Countries: Italy

Discover the fairytale ‘town of towers’ San Gimignano.

Smaller group size
up to 28!

Hidden Italy, the Lands of the Etruscans

10 Captivating Days
  • Start: Rome
  • Ends: Rome
  • Countries: Italy

Savour lunch on a shady terrace with spectacular views over the Lazio countryside.

Smaller group size
up to 28

Italian Alternativo

15 Fascinating Days
  • Start: Mira
  • Ends: Rome
  • Countries: Italy

Stay 3 nights in a charming 16th century Palace in Ascoli Piceno.

Smaller group size, maximum of 28

Italy, the Deep South & Sicily

17 Superb Days
  • Start: Rome
  • Ends: Palermo
  • Countries: Italy

Visit beautiful Ortigia Island, the historical heart of ancient Syracuse.

Smaller group sizes
up to 28

Sardinia & Corsica, the Lands of Myths and Legends

15 Fascinating Days
  • Start: Cagliari
  • Ends: Bastia
  • Countries: Sardinia, France, Italy

Prepare to be awestruck by the stunning cliff-top town of Bonifacio.

Festive Tours

Smaller group size, no more than 28

Christmas in an Italian Castle

11 Unique Days
  • Start: Munich
  • Ends: Milan
  • Countries: Italy, Austria, Germany

Experience the stylish ski resort town of Cortina d'Ampezzo, located in the breathtaking Dolomites

Smaller group size, no more than 28

New Year in Austria, Slovenia and CastelBrando

10 Amazing Days
  • Start: Munich
  • Ends: Venice
  • Countries: Austria, Germany, Slovenia, Italy

Celebrate New Year in wonderful Salzburg, exciting Slovenia and stay in a centuries old castle

Smaller group size, no more than 28

New Year in an Italian Villa & Tuscany

9 Memorable Days
  • Start: Milan
  • Ends: Rome
  • Countries: Italy

Experience Italy's rich heritage in Winter

Smaller group size, no more than 28

New Year in an Italian Castle

7 Exhilarating Days
  • Start: Munich
  • Ends: Milan
  • Countries: Austria, Italy, Germany

Enjoy a diverse and enriching experience filled with memorable moments

Smaller group size, no more than 28

Christmas in the Slovenian Alps

12 Glorious Days
  • Start: Munich
  • Ends: Munich
  • Countries: Slovenia, Italy, Austria

A Christmas holiday filled with breathtaking views, charming cities, festive markets and staying in a centuries-old castle

Small group size, no more than 28

An Alpine Christmas Adventure

17 Astonishing Days
  • Start: Milan
  • Ends: Munich
  • Countries: France, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Italy

Enjoy staying in world-class Alpine resorts and ride on the famous Glacier Express

Smaller group size,
no more than 28

Swiss Alpine Christmas Markets

13 Magical Days
  • Start: Munich
  • Ends: Milan
  • Countries: Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Austria

Explore some of Switzerland's most delightful Christmas markets

Italy Tour Destinations

See and experience so much more of the real Italy with Albatross Tours. With our longer stays and more leisurely touring pace, you can truly experience and immerse yourself in this beautiful country during one of our Italy tours. We not only visit the stunning cities of Venice, Milan and Florence; we also explore the hidden gems – the lesser-known but equally amazing locations and towns. The combination of acclaimed attractions and off-the-track delights on our Italian tours allows you to really savour this fascinating holiday destination

The Italian Lakes

  • Bellagio: Gorgeously quaint, the town of Bellagio sits on a peninsula surrounded on three sides by the glimmering Lake Como. With beautiful buildings and gardens, delicious al fresco dining, and wonderful views of the Alps across the water, this destination is truly a dream come true.
  • Lake Garda: It’s difficult to say which is more beautiful: Italy’s largest lake or its stunning surroundings. Old villages filled with charm sit side by side with modern towns, while striking mountains provide a dramatic background.
  • Lake Como: This picturesque lake and area are immensely popular amongst people on holiday in Italy, and it’s not difficult to see why. Incomparable natural beauty contrasts brilliantly with the pretty villas that are icons of this region.
  • Islands of Lake Maggiore: Explore an exquisite Borromeo villa and lose yourself amongst extravagant gardens on Isola Bella. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the adorable restaurants or cafés on Isola dei Pescatori. Wherever you are on Lake Maggiore, glamorous natural beauty greets your eyes, whichever way you gaze.
  • Macugnaga: Despite this cute village’s lofty altitude, the nearby snow-topped mountains climb higher still. Dufourspitze, the second highest mountain in Europe, is particularly intimidating for those who would climb it; though for an ordinary traveler, it is simply a wonder to behold.

Tuscany

  • Montecatini Terme: This picturesque old town has been celebrated since the 18th century, when the first of the luxury thermal spas was built to capitalise on the mineral-water springs. In years gone by, the thermal spas were frequented by royalty and the rich, and many still provide relaxing, rejuvenating treatments for locals and guests to the area.
  • Lucca: If you can’t take a turn without bumping into a church, palace, medieval-looking house, or city wall, it might be because you’re in Lucca. For the best views of this city frozen in time, head to the top of the city walls and take a leisurely stroll.
  • Pisa: Prepare to see one of Italy’s most beloved and well-known attractions for yourself. After getting some snapshots with the photogenic Leaning Tower (don’t forget to pose!), take time to visit the enchanting local Cathedral and Baptistery.
  • San Gimignano: The town’s oldest residents, the Tuscan towers still standing after 700 or so years, make a visit to San Gimignano worthwhile. The quaint town is also home to a multitude of pathways that are simply lovely to walk along.
  • Siena: The trademark brick buildings of this town date back to medieval times and will have you feeling like you’ve taken a trip to the past. Piazza del Campo and the gothic-style town hall are particularly fascinating places to spend time.
  • Florence: The capital of Tuscany and the cultural capital of the world, Florence is widely considered an essential stop on any Italy tour. A key highlight is meeting Michelangelo’s ‘David’, among other fabulous statues and artworks.

Italian Riviera

  • Cinque Terre: Experience the calm Italy of old in Cinque Terre (or ‘Five Lands’). This collection of five small villages sits in northern Italy, on the coast of the glorious Mediterranean Sea. Brightly painted houses perch right over the ocean on rugged cliffs. The area outside of town is just as magnificent – the national park has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Portofino: Ideal for a quick stop, this old seaside village is tucked away in a quaint bay. Look up to discover a castle and church standing guard over the port.
  • Genoa: Home to Europe’s biggest still-intact medieval city center, as well as plenty of pedestrian malls and delightful squares, Genoa is the perfect place for a guided walking tour in Italy.

Northern Italy

  • Verona: Serenade your special someone from below or step onto Juliet’s balcony yourself in famous Verona. Don’t skip by the fascinating Arena either; it’s an ancient amphitheater that is still used today.
  • Venice: Whether travelling by foot or boat, Venice is an absolute pleasure to explore. The iconic Grand Canal, gondolas, and thriving St. Mark’s Square are only the beginning. A guided walking tour of Venice is an especially unforgettable experience.

Southern Italy

  • Alberobello: Prepare for somewhat odd accommodations when staying in Alberobello – your temporary home here will be one of the town’s many ‘trulli’ (cute whitewashed buildings with cone-shaped roofs).
  • Ostuni: Admire Italy’s beautiful southern coastline from the hilltop city of Ostuni. In the town itself, prepare to be dazzled by the streets upon streets of striking whitewashed buildings.
  • Polignano a Mare: You need only two reasons to stop in this town. It sits directly on cliffs that fall away into the Adriatic Sea, making for some breathtaking views, and it serves some of the country’s most delicious gelato. Ice cream and sightseeing: the perfect pair.
  • Matera: Marvel at the area’s churches made from rock and explore the man-made caves carved into a gigantic rocky plateau. These stone houses (or ‘sassi’) are ancient; while some are in ruins, others have been fantastically restored – including the cave-hotels that will accommodate you during your time in Matera.

Umbria

  • Assisi: The streets of this quiet town are peaceful and charming, but it is the Basilica of St. Francis and its glorious frescoes that take the cake in Assisi.
  • Spoleto: Take a journey into centuries gone by when you visit the ancient city of Spoleto. Historic sites abound, including a 1st-century amphitheater.

Campania

  • Naples: There are exquisite palaces, squares, and castles wherever you go in the sensational city of Naples. There are shopping and delicious dining opportunities aplenty as well.
  • Pompeii: Venture through the spooky yet fascinating ruins of Pompeii, where the aftermath of an almighty volcanic eruption has preserved scenes and items for nearly 2,000 years.
  • Island of Ischia: Discover the gorgeous Giardini la Mortella (an internationally acclaimed garden) before enjoying lunch in a charming fishing village. Visiting the picturesque Castello Aragonese in the afternoon is the perfect finale for a day on this captivating island.

Amalfi Coast

  • Island of Capri: Luscious landscapes, boutique stores, and mesmerising views of natural beauty, it’s no surprise Capri becomes an instant highlight of Italy for so many people travelling in this diverse and beautiful country.
  • Ravello: When visiting the mountainside town of Ravello, you may find yourself wondering, “Which is closer, the sea or the sky?” The panoramic views you will witness from this location are simply astonishing.
  • Amalfi: The quaint city of Amalfi perfectly encompasses the charm and beauty that the coast of the same name is famous for. Soak up some sun on the modest beach or enjoy some local cuisine and drinks in one of the many pretty piazzas.

Sicily

  • Marsala: Located in the westernmost province of Sicily, Marsala is a thriving city built on the ruins of the ancient Carthaginian city of Lilybaion. The city is most famous for its local wine, the heavily fortified Marsala Wine, which is a perfect aperitif between the first and second courses of any Sicilian meal. Outside of the city is Stagnone Lagoon, a large, fertile lagoon punctuated by four picturesque islands that are perfect for an afternoon’s exploration.
  • Agrigento: A historic city with a rich archaeological legacy, Agrigento is a thriving city on Sicily’s south coast. The city is built where the Akgras once stood. This lost city was one of the most important political and cultural sites in ancient Greece. Modern tourists can spend a number of days exploring Valle dei Templi, a ridge where seven monumental Greek temples have stood for nearly two thousand years.
  • Taormina: A small town on the east coast of Sicily, Taormina is popular with tourists for its spectacular mountainside location, chic resorts, and gorgeous beaches with crystal blue water. There are thousands of years of history packed into the town, from the ancient cliff top Teatro Greco (Greek theater) to the 10th century Sicilian palace. Inside the town are a number of harbour side restaurants and boutiques, offering truly lavish modern delights.

Sardinia

  • Cagliari: Sardinia’s most southern city, and is a home to Vespas, tree-fringed boulevards, and busy cafes packed with locals enjoying paninis, gnocchi, and fresh seafood. Like many Italian cities, Cagliari wears its history on its sleeve and features everything from ancient ruins and museums loaded with prehistoric artefacts to centuries-old churches and stunning palazzi.
  • Alghero: The medieval city of Alghero is one of Sardinia’s most beautiful. A labyrinth of narrow streets that connect piazzas bustling with life. Encircled by ancient walls, Alghero is known for its cobblestoned center and gothic buildings such as the Cattedrale di Santa Maria. It’s where red roofs touch the sky and families enjoy crystalline water and soft sand beaches.
  • Su Gologone: Part of a unique historical archaeological landscape, Su Gologone is a natural masterpiece. The name itself evokes fresh water and lush greenery, and just 15km away, you will find Sardinia’s most important natural spring. The water here has carved out underground channels and a small lake that sits between the high walls of the region’s Dolomitic rock. From intense green and turquoise to a mesmerising blue, the water changes according to the reflection of the sun.
  • La Maddalena: A sixty-island archipelago off the coast of Sardinia, La Maddalena is home to unspoilt beaches, blue seas, and memorable scenery. Granite outcrops enclose patches of turquoise sea. Weathered by wind and sea, these rocks form some spectacular shapes. Cruise through the islands, stopping and exploring along the way.

Orvieto

The town of Orvieto is truly a standout within the Umbria region. With a traditional medieval centre square, surrounded by cobblestone streets lined with boutiques and food sellers, you really could be forgiven for thinking that you’d stepped back in time. Located between Rome and Florence, it has a consistent liveliness from passing visitors, with people flocking to see the town’s amazing medieval cathedral. It’s considered to be one of Italy’s greatest Gothic churches, and its frescoes are even said to rival the work of Michaelangelo in the Sistine Chapel. Orvieto is also set above an impressive system of caves and catacombs, so be sure to make some time to check them out.

Chianciano Terme

The most amazing drawcard of the village of Chinciano Terme is its thermal baths, which are rich in beneficial minerals and well-known for their therapeutic properties. Take a dip and experience ultimate relaxation! Sitting between the borders of Val d’Orcia and the Valdichiana, Chianciano Terme is a village rich in history and serves as a great point for experiencing some of the best that Tuscany has to offer. 

Some must-sees in the village include the magnificent castle known as the Monastero, as well as the stunning clock tower that resides within the medieval town square. The town is also a great vantage point for exploring the many vineyards and farmhouses that dot the region. What could be better than sitting on the balcony of a farmhouse and enjoying fresh pasta and a glass of wine? Nothing!

Sit back and relax while you explore this little village, set amongst the beautiful Cetona and Amiata Mountains.

Rieti

Rieti is located in central Italy, and has been an important cultural and trade centre for the region since ancient times. Set on the slopes of the Sabini and Reatini Mountains, it’s the perfect point for starting adventures like visiting castles, fortresses, churches and Fransican sanctuaries. The area is also supremely naturally beautiful, including the Reatini Lakes Nature Reserve, Lakes Lungo and the Ripasottile (all home to a wide variety of native Italian flora and fauna). 

If you fancy staying in the town centre instead of venturing out however, Rieti is bursting at the seams with attractions. The centre of the town is truly ancient, centred around the Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II. Marvel at the Fontana dei Delfini (Fountain of the Dolphins) and then stroll over to the 13th century structure of the Palazzo Comunale. You’ll get a real taste for authentic Italian community and life here, as you visit the Duomo and the Palace of Prefecture (an amazing vantage point for looking over the oldest part of the town and the stunning mountains that surround the city).

Touring Italy via Coach

There’s no doubt that an Italian holiday is something you will remember forever. To get the absolute most enjoyment out of your time in this stunning country, you can’t go past a coach tour with Albatross. Because our groups are smaller and we stay longer than most tour groups, you are able to really lose yourself in the sights, cities, and sensations of Italy.

When you tour Italy via coach, everything is easy and convenient, which means you’ll return home truly refreshed rather than feeling like you need another holiday! Enjoy the stress-free experience of having expert guides take care of navigating between stops. This luxury is especially wonderful in Italy, where traffic is notoriously hectic. As part of a small group tour to Italy from Australia, you also don’t need to worry about the language barrier leading to any drama, though you will still have plenty of opportunities to test your Italian vocabulary and pronunciation with friendly locals.

Your Albatross guides will provide invaluable insight and guidance about the best places to see during free time as well, ensuring every moment of your Italy tour is magical. Perhaps even greater than this are the chances you’ll have to bond with other fun people and make friends with your fellow travellers. It’s not unheard of for visitors who met while on tour together to form long-lasting relationships fuelled by their shared love of Italy.


When to Visit Italy

The best time to visit Italy is between April and October (i.e. from late autumn to early spring). Italy’s summer months (June-August) see particularly beautiful weather, making them the country’s most popular time of year for tourists. However, the periods just before and after this peak season enjoy wonderful conditions as well. Consider whether slightly smaller crowds or summer weather is more important to you when deciding when to travel here.

Though the winter months are generally not as popular for visiting Italy, you should certainly think about making an exception during late December. You can expect high chances of snow and a guaranteed atmosphere of joy when embarking on an Italy tour while Christmas celebrations are happening throughout the country.

The Foods You’ll Eat in Italy

Without a doubt, the cuisine of Italy is one of the country’s most attractive features. From savory to sweet and everything in between, each day of your tour will present you with opportunities to sample the delightful tastes of Italy. Each region has its own specialty dishes and beverages, so be adventurous and take your senses on the culinary journey of a lifetime.

Some of the classic Italian food items to anticipate include:

  • Authentic Pizza: Enjoy this scrumptious creation the way it is supposed to be. From fancy restaurants to side-alley market stalls, you’re never far away from a slice when travelling in Italy. The pizzas in Naples are particularly delicious.
  • Lip-Smacking Limoncello: A specialty of the Amalfi Coast, this uniquely quenching liqueur is best enjoyed after a satisfying supper, preferably while relaxing with a beautiful seaside view.
  • Perfect Pasta: If you wanted to try every variety of authentic Italian pasta throughout your holiday, not even our long Italy tours would give you enough time. From creamy carbonara to flavoursome fettucine, the pasta options are endless, try as many as you can fit in!
  • Lovely Gelato: Gelato shops are as common as pizza parlors in Italy, and the range of flavours will have you changing your mind many times. Chocolate, hazelnut, and lemon are traditional favorites, but definitely let your taste buds take the lead here.
  • Quick Coffees: Italian locals don’t waste any time when it comes to drinking their delicious coffee brews, but this doesn’t make these tempting beverages any less enjoyable. For an extra burst of energy, order yourself an espresso, pronto.

Things You Should Know About Italian Culture

Meals are a big deal in Italian culture, so put your phone away and really enjoy the cuisine of the country (and the company of your fellow travellers). Other customs you should be aware of when on an Italian tour include:

  • Passion: A common trait amongst Italians is an infectious amount of enthusiasm – for football, food, topical issues, and just about every other aspect of life. If locals come across as blunt or rude, particularly when driving, don’t take it personally; that’s simply the way this energetic society works.
  • Family: The family unit is of utmost importance to most Italians. Extended families living together in a single household are common, particularly in southern Italy. When socialising with locals, be careful not to act or speak in a way that would suggest disrespect towards family members – yours or anyone else’s.
  • Looks: Appearances and first impressions are highly considered in Italian culture. To fit in, you may like to swap the traditional touristy wear for smart casual clothes that are still comfortable for walking. Never insult a local’s attractiveness either (though this is a good general rule to follow regardless of which country you are visiting!).

The Money You’ll Use in Italy

Since 2002 and the cancellation of the Italian lira, the currency of Italy has been the Euro (€). If you’re a frequent traveller in Europe, no doubt you will already be quite familiar with this currency’s notes (€5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200 and €500) and coins (1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1 and €2).

Italy is quite a cash-focused country, so it’s a good idea to have a decent amount handy – even though most of your expenses will be covered in your tour itinerary. ATMs (or ‘bancomats’) are easy to find in most Italian cities, but do check with your bank beforehand to make sure your card will be accepted. You can expect a small fee from each withdrawal though, so you might prefer to exchange cash on arrival or buy some Euros before departing for your tour.a

See Italy with Albatross Tours

Contact our knowledgeable and experienced team today to discuss your upcoming small group tour to Italy from Australia.