Italy Inspiration: 6 Great Multi-Centre Ideas

From cities to countryside, lakes to islands, Italy has so much to offer and with brilliant transport links, you can combine several destinations to see and do more in one trip. Have a look at our sample itineraries below to get you started and leave you feeling inspired. Andiamo!

Best for first-time visitors: Rome & Sorrento

Perfect for first time visits to Italy, Rome and Sorrento offer a fantastic introduction to the country. Firstly, you have the capital, the Eternal City. Rome’s historical landmarks such as the Pantheon, the Colosseum, and the Vatican make travelling there feel like a real-life history lesson as you step back in time. On the Campo de’ Fiori you can enjoy a day shopping in the stylish boutiques and stop for a bit to eat at one of the restaurants, pizzerias and trattorias found around every corner. A jewel of the Neapolitan Riviera, Sorrento is just a three-hour train ride away. Situated on a stunning clifftop, Sorrento enjoys expansive views of Capri and the Bay of Naples. Take your time exploring the maze of winding cobbled alleys, dine on hearty dishes, or sip on espresso in one of the cafes in the piazza.

Best for city lovers: Venice, Florence and Rome

Covering off three of Italy’s greatest cities, this multicentre takes you to Venice, Florence and Rome. Before boarding a train and travelling north, fly into the capital to experience la dolce vita with designer shops, excellent coffee and the best pizza as well as take in some of the major attractions of old Rome such as the Forum and the Colosseum. The train will then see you in Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, just a few hours later. Explore the Uffizi Gallery, take a stroll over the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge and ascend to the top of Il Duomo at the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. You can reach Venice after taking one more short train ride. Admire St. Mark’s Square and then climb on board a famous gondola to glide down the iconic Grand Canal or one of the quieter neighbourhood canals.

Best for romance: Ischia, Capri & Amalfi Coast

It couldn’t be a better time to visit the Amalfi Coast and the islands of Italy – Ischia and Capri. The island of Ischia is a hub for natural spa treatments thanks to its volcanic qualities. In between admiring the island’s charming villages, spend a few days relaxing in thermal pools, soaking in natural hot springs, and covering yourself in mineral-rich mud. Alternatively, the island of Capri offers natural beauty with its rocky outcrops, remote bays, secret caves and dramatic mountains. This island is a favourite among the A-list crowd thanks to its upscale boutiques and five-star hotels. A short boat journey will take you back to the mainland and the beautiful Amalfi Coast. Spend your days hand in hand wandering through the quaint alleyways and drinking limoncello on sunny patios establishing your base in one of the most picturesque villages – Positano and Amalfi are two of our favourites. Take a drive along the coast and enjoy the breathtaking views around every corner.

Best for wine lovers: Tuscany & Umbria

A self-drive holiday is perfect in Tuscany and Umbria where meandering roads cut through the rolling hills and reveal charming cities, historical villages, and a range of rural retreats. Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir grapes hang from the vines in the vineyards that cover the sunny slopes with the perfect conditions to grow. Numerous wines of protected origin can only be found in these regions including Umbria’s Orvieto and Torgiano and Tuscany’s Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Vin Santo. You can pair these wines with delicious flavours crafted from the finest ingredients, including freshly made pasta, caprino goat’s cheese, black truffles, and tart extra virgin olive oil.

Best for explorers: Sicily self-drive

On the tip of Italy’s boot, the island of Sicily sits just 12 miles from the mainland. Few places are able to pack so much into a small space, but Sicily does just that. We’re talking craggy outcrops, dramatic mountains and the iconic Mount Etna as well as cities filled with influences from the Phoenicians, Greeks and Arabs. The easiest way to see everything this island has to offer is by car. The roads are good for navigating and the route along the coast allows you to enjoy all of the main sights. One of the most picturesque towns on the island, Taormina showcases 10th century buildings and winding alleys. Up on the cliff you can enjoy gorgeous views across the Mediterranean as well as Mount Etna. Head north to the ancient Greek city of Cefalù where you’ll find beautiful architecture and a Norman cathedral. Finish your trip in the capital of Palermo with its bustling markets, ancient buildings, and friendly feel.

Best for relaxation: Liguria & Tuscany Coast

Relaxation and the Italian Riviera go hand in hand. The most well-known destination in northern Tuscany is the city of Viareggio, situated between the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Apli Apuane. The perfect location to recharge your batteries, the spotless sandy beach allows you to relax. Liguria, which has a stunning coastline, and a variety of thermal springs is only a short drive away. According to legend, the iron and sulphur rich waters in the ancient towns of Pigna, Diano Castello and Genova Voltri are said to be able to treat a range of illnesses. Additionally, you can choose relaxing therapies such as massages and mud baths.

A full day in Shakespeare’s city of Verona
See famous sights like the Roman Arena and Juliet’s balcony
Enjoy a guided tour as well as free time to explore on your own

This historic city is one of Italy’s loveliest. You’ll need a full day to do Verona justice, so this excursion is the perfect way to get to know the city, with free time to soak up the sights at your leisure.

You’ll start with a guided tour of Verona’s most famous sights, including the Roman Arena (home of the opera festival), Juliet's balcony, the Scaligeri tombs, Piazza dell' Erbe and Piazza Bra.

There will be plenty of free time to wander, too, so you can discover why Shakespeare chose to set so many plays here. Verona is an elegant sprawl of piazzas and picturesque lanes along the banks of the River Adige, and exploring on foot is the best way to see it. Surrounding the city are leafy hills topped with terracotta churches – perfect for a photo op.

We say: “Verona is so close to Lake Garda that a visit here is definitely worth doing. This excursion is a great way to see the city’s sights, including the Roman amphitheatre, one of the best in Italy (where they hold the Verona Opera Festival).” Lara Crowe, Product Executive

Prices: From £80 per person (depending on resort)

Operates: Tuesday & Friday (All resorts) - Full Day

Duration: Full Day

Start time: 7:30 am - 9:30am approx. (depending on resort)

Included: Guided walking tour, free time in Verona.

Not included: Hotel pick up and drop off, lunch.

To pre-book your excursion please call one of our Italy Experts. Please note that excursions operate seasonally from May - September and are subject to availability and minimum numbers. Start times and departure points shall be reconfirmed once in resort.

Discover the real Italy with Citalia

Are you feeling inspired? We can create a bespoke itinerary just for you – just give one of our Personal Travel Planners a call. They’ve travelled all over Italy and know the best routes and transport options, so they can help you design a trip that ticks all your boxes. Here is our commitment to you; with 95 years’ experience we pride ourselves on ensuring you Travel with Confidence.

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/holidays/italy/coast-and-islands/Italy's Coast and Island Holidays

Call us today to speak to one of our Italy Experts for further travel advice, hotel recommendations or to begin planning your next Italian holiday.

01293 765055 Or Make an enquiry