8 Unmissable Experiences in Italy
Walk Through Ancient Rome: Colosseum Arena, Forum & Palatine Hill Tour
Step straight into the heart of ancient Rome with this unforgettable guided experience of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill — three of the most legendary sites in Italian history. You won’t just admire the Colosseum from the outside — this tour gives you special access to the Arena Floor, where gladiators once stood and fought in front of roaring crowds. It’s a surreal feeling to walk the same ground where history was made over 2,000 years ago.
From there, you’ll explore the ruins of the Roman Forum, once the political and commercial center of the Roman Empire, filled with temples, arches, and incredible stories. Then it’s on to Palatine Hill, the birthplace of Rome and home to ancient palaces — not to mention amazing panoramic views over the entire city.
This is one of the top things to do in Rome, especially for first-time visitors and history lovers. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll come away with more than just photos — you’ll have a deep connection to the stories that shaped modern Europe and a strong start to any Italy road trip.
👉 Click the button below the image to check availability and book this tour securely through Trip.com
Coastal Bliss: Sorrento, Positano & Amalfi Day Trip
Get ready for a picture-perfect day on Italy’s most iconic coastline. This full-day experience from Naples is one of the top-rated tours of the Amalfi Coast, taking you along cliffside roads and through seaside villages like Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi.
Start off in Sorrento, where lemon trees line the streets and coastal cafés offer sweeping views over the Bay of Naples. Then continue to Positano, a postcard-perfect village with pastel buildings, boutique shops, and pebble beaches tucked between dramatic cliffs. Midday brings you to Amalfi, with its historic cathedral and lively promenade — perfect for wandering, snacking, and soaking up the sunshine.
☀️ Fun fact: The Amalfi Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visiting here is high on the list of must-do things to do in Italy, especially for first-timers.
With hotel pickup and transport included, this is one of the most seamless tours of the Amalfi Coast, offering a full day of scenery, culture, and coastal charm — without the stress of navigating it yourself.
👉 Click the button below the image to check availability and book this tour securely through Trip.com
Sacred Masterpieces: VIP Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica Tour
Step into the world’s smallest country — and one of its most breathtaking — with this VIP guided tour through the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. Skip the long lines and dive straight into the heart of Renaissance art, papal history, and divine architecture — easily one of the top things to do in Italy.
You’ll walk through the grand halls of the Vatican Museums, home to thousands of years of priceless treasures, before entering the legendary Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s “The Last Judgment” and “The Creation of Adam” cover the ceiling and walls. Seeing this in person is nothing short of jaw-dropping.
Next, you’ll enter St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the holiest and most iconic churches in the world. Marvel at Bernini’s altar, Michelangelo’s “Pietà”, and the sheer scale of the interior — it’s both humbling and majestic.
Since the Vatican lies in the heart of the Eternal City, this experience easily belongs on any list of the top things to do in Rome, especially for art and history lovers.
💡 Fun fact: The Vatican Museums stretch over 9 miles of galleries — so having a professional guide makes a huge difference in understanding what you’re seeing and not missing the highlights.
If you’re planning your Italy road trip, this is an unforgettable stop that blends culture, beauty, and history — a true must-see.
👉 Click the button below the image to check availability and book this tour securely through Trip.com
Alpine Escape: Dolomites & Lake Braies Day Tour
Trade the city streets for snow-capped peaks and turquoise alpine lakes on this unforgettable day trip to the Dolomites and Lake Braies — often called the most beautiful mountains in the world. If you’re planning an Italy road trip, this tour is the perfect nature-filled escape from the usual cities and coastlines.
You’ll visit the stunning Lake Braies, famous for its crystal-clear water that mirrors the dramatic mountain backdrop. It’s a bucket list spot for nature lovers and Instagrammers alike. Whether you take a peaceful walk along the shore or rent a traditional wooden rowboat, the scenery is nothing short of magical.
Next, you’ll head deep into the Dolomite mountain range, where jagged peaks, charming alpine villages, and scenic mountain passes await. This UNESCO-listed region offers some of the most striking landscapes in all of Europe — and it’s easily one of the most refreshing things to do in Italy if you want to avoid the usual crowds.
💡 Fun fact: The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps and were once coral reefs under the sea — over 200 million years ago!
If you’re craving clean mountain air, postcard-perfect views, and a day far from the crowds, this tour will be your highlight.
👉 Click the button below the image to check availability and book this tour securely through Trip.com
Venice in a Day: St. Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace & Gondola Ride
Immerse yourself in the magic of Venice with this all-encompassing day tour that captures the city’s most iconic sights and experiences. Begin your journey at the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica, where shimmering gold mosaics and opulent Byzantine architecture tell tales of Venice’s rich past — it’s no surprise this stop ranks high among the top things to do in Italy.
Next, step into the grandeur of the Doge’s Palace, the historic seat of Venetian power. Wander through lavish chambers adorned with masterpieces by Titian and Tintoretto, and cross the legendary Bridge of Sighs, where prisoners glimpsed their last view of Venice before imprisonment.
Conclude your day with a serene gondola ride along the Grand Canal and the city’s enchanting back canals. Glide beneath elegant bridges, past centuries-old palaces, and experience Venice from its most romantic vantage point. It’s a classic experience — and a must on any well-planned Italy road trip.
💡 Fun fact: The Bridge of Sighs earned its name from the sighs of prisoners who, as legend has it, took one final look at the beauty of Venice before being led to their cells.
👉 Click the button below the image to check availability and book this tour securely through Trip.com
Ride Through the Alps: Bernina Red Train to St. Moritz from Milan
Hop aboard one of the world’s most breathtaking train journeys with this full-day adventure from Milan to St. Moritz via the legendary Bernina Express. This bright red train winds its way through the Swiss Alps, climbing snowy peaks, crossing stone viaducts, and rolling past sparkling glaciers and mountain lakes.
The panoramic windows mean you won’t miss a second of the jaw-dropping views — from alpine villages to dramatic landscapes that look like they’re straight out of a fairytale. You’ll travel along part of a UNESCO World Heritage railway line, which reaches elevations over 2,200 meters without the help of a cogwheel! It’s a must-do if you’re looking for unique things to do in Italy that go beyond the usual tourist spots.
The tour includes free time in the glamorous town of St. Moritz, known for its upscale charm, chocolate shops, and lakeside walks. You’ll also pass through the scenic Italian countryside on your way there and back, making this an ideal addition to any Italy road trip.
🚞 Fun fact: The Bernina Express is one of the highest-altitude train routes in Europe, and it operates all year round — offering snowy wonderlands in winter and lush alpine views in summer.
👉 Click the button below the image to check availability and book this tour securely through Trip.com
Lakeside Luxury: Lake Como & Bellagio with Private Boat Cruise
Escape the city and soak up the glamor of northern Italy with this dreamy day trip to Lake Como and Bellagio, complete with a scenic private boat cruise. Starting from Milan, you’ll head to the shores of Lake Como — a place that’s enchanted everyone from George Clooney to ancient Roman nobles. It’s one of the most elegant things to do in Italy, especially if you’re looking to slow down and enjoy the finer side of travel.
First stop: Como town, where charming streets, local cafés, and lakefront views set the tone. Then it’s time to board a private boat and cruise across the sparkling waters, gliding past luxurious villas, forested hills, and picturesque villages tucked along the shoreline.
Your final destination? Bellagio, often called “the Pearl of Lake Como,” where cobblestone alleys, flower-draped balconies, and boutique shops invite you to slow down and explore.
💡 Fun fact: Lake Como is shaped like an upside-down “Y” and reaches over 400 meters deep — making it one of the deepest lakes in Europe.
This is a perfect stop on any Italy road trip, whether you’re traveling with a partner, capturing the scenery with your camera, or just chasing that peaceful, elegant slice of la dolce vita.
👉 Click the button below the image to check availability and book this tour securely through Trip.com
Ruins & a Volcano: Private Tour of Pompeii, Herculaneum & Mount Vesuvius
Step into the past and walk through stories frozen in time on this incredible private tour from Naples. You’ll visit Pompeii and Herculaneum, two ancient Roman cities buried by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD — and then you’ll actually stand on the volcano that caused it all. If you’re into history, volcanoes, or epic views, this is easily one of the most unforgettable things to do in Italy.
Start in Pompeii, where ash-preserved streets, villas, and even frescoes offer a hauntingly detailed glimpse into ancient Roman life. Then head to Herculaneum, a smaller but better-preserved site, where charred wooden beams and intact mosaics tell their own dramatic story.
And just when you think you’ve seen it all, you’ll drive up the slopes of Mount Vesuvius and hike to the crater’s edge. From here, you’ll get sweeping views over Naples and the Bay of Naples — and feel the thrill of standing on one of the world’s most infamous volcanoes.
💡 Fun fact: Mount Vesuvius is the only active volcano on mainland Europe, and it’s considered one of the most dangerous in the world — not because it erupts often, but because over 3 million people live nearby today.
This stop adds depth and drama to any Italy road trip, especially for travelers craving something beyond the usual sights.
👉 Click the button below the image to check availability and book this tour securely through Trip.com
Walk Through Ancient Rome: Colosseum Arena, Forum & Palatine Hill Tour
Step straight into the heart of ancient Rome with this unforgettable guided experience of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill — three of the most legendary sites in Italian history. You won’t just admire the Colosseum from the outside — this tour gives you special access to the Arena Floor, where gladiators once stood and fought in front of roaring crowds. It’s a surreal feeling to walk the same ground where history was made over 2,000 years ago.
From there, you’ll explore the ruins of the Roman Forum, once the political and commercial center of the Roman Empire, filled with temples, arches, and incredible stories. Then it’s on to Palatine Hill, the birthplace of Rome and home to ancient palaces — not to mention amazing panoramic views over the entire city.
This is one of the top things to do in Rome, especially for first-time visitors and history lovers. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll come away with more than just photos — you’ll have a deep connection to the stories that shaped modern Europe and a strong start to any Italy road trip.
👉 Click the button below the image to check availability and book this experience securely through Trip.com
Coastal Bliss: Sorrento, Positano & Amalfi Day Trip
Get ready for a picture-perfect day on Italy’s most iconic coastline. This full-day experience from Naples is one of the top-rated tours of the Amalfi Coast, taking you along cliffside roads and through seaside villages like Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi.
Start off in Sorrento, where lemon trees line the streets and coastal cafés offer sweeping views over the Bay of Naples. Then continue to Positano, a postcard-perfect village with pastel buildings, boutique shops, and pebble beaches tucked between dramatic cliffs. Midday brings you to Amalfi, with its historic cathedral and lively promenade — perfect for wandering, snacking, and soaking up the sunshine.
☀️ Fun fact: The Amalfi Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visiting here is high on the list of must-do things to do in Italy, especially for first-timers.
With hotel pickup and transport included, this is one of the most seamless tours of the Amalfi Coast, offering a full day of scenery, culture, and coastal charm — without the stress of navigating it yourself.
👉 Click the button below the image to check availability and book this experience securely through Trip.com
Sacred Masterpieces: VIP Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica Tour
Step into the world’s smallest country — and one of its most breathtaking — with this VIP guided tour through the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. Skip the long lines and dive straight into the heart of Renaissance art, papal history, and divine architecture — easily one of the top things to do in Italy.
You’ll walk through the grand halls of the Vatican Museums, home to thousands of years of priceless treasures, before entering the legendary Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s “The Last Judgment” and “The Creation of Adam” cover the ceiling and walls. Seeing this in person is nothing short of jaw-dropping.
Next, you’ll enter St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the holiest and most iconic churches in the world. Marvel at Bernini’s altar, Michelangelo’s “Pietà”, and the sheer scale of the interior — it’s both humbling and majestic.
Since the Vatican lies in the heart of the Eternal City, this experience easily belongs on any list of the top things to do in Rome, especially for art and history lovers.
💡 Fun fact: The Vatican Museums stretch over 9 miles of galleries — so having a professional guide makes a huge difference in understanding what you’re seeing and not missing the highlights.
If you’re planning your Italy road trip, this is an unforgettable stop that blends culture, beauty, and history — a true must-see.
👉 Click the button below the image to check availability and book this experience securely through Trip.com
Alpine Escape: Dolomites & Lake Braies Day Tour
Trade the city streets for snow-capped peaks and turquoise alpine lakes on this unforgettable day trip to the Dolomites and Lake Braies — often called the most beautiful mountains in the world. If you’re planning an Italy road trip, this tour is the perfect nature-filled escape from the usual cities and coastlines.
You’ll visit the stunning Lake Braies, famous for its crystal-clear water that mirrors the dramatic mountain backdrop. It’s a bucket list spot for nature lovers and Instagrammers alike. Whether you take a peaceful walk along the shore or rent a traditional wooden rowboat, the scenery is nothing short of magical.
Next, you’ll head deep into the Dolomite mountain range, where jagged peaks, charming alpine villages, and scenic mountain passes await. This UNESCO-listed region offers some of the most striking landscapes in all of Europe — and it’s easily one of the most refreshing things to do in Italy if you want to avoid the usual crowds.
💡 Fun fact: The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps and were once coral reefs under the sea — over 200 million years ago!
If you’re craving clean mountain air, postcard-perfect views, and a day far from the crowds, this tour will be your highlight.
👉 Click the button below the image to check availability and book this experience securely through Trip.com
Venice in a Day: St. Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace & Gondola Ride
Immerse yourself in the magic of Venice with this all-encompassing day tour that captures the city’s most iconic sights and experiences. Begin your journey at the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica, where shimmering gold mosaics and opulent Byzantine architecture tell tales of Venice’s rich past — it’s no surprise this stop ranks high among the top things to do in Italy.
Next, step into the grandeur of the Doge’s Palace, the historic seat of Venetian power. Wander through lavish chambers adorned with masterpieces by Titian and Tintoretto, and cross the legendary Bridge of Sighs, where prisoners glimpsed their last view of Venice before imprisonment.
Conclude your day with a serene gondola ride along the Grand Canal and the city’s enchanting back canals. Glide beneath elegant bridges, past centuries-old palaces, and experience Venice from its most romantic vantage point. It’s a classic experience — and a must on any well-planned Italy road trip.
💡 Fun fact: The Bridge of Sighs earned its name from the sighs of prisoners who, as legend has it, took one final look at the beauty of Venice before being led to their cells.
👉 Click the button below the image to check availability and book this experience securely through Trip.com
Ride Through the Alps: Bernina Red Train to St. Moritz from Milan
Hop aboard one of the world’s most breathtaking train journeys with this full-day adventure from Milan to St. Moritz via the legendary Bernina Express. This bright red train winds its way through the Swiss Alps, climbing snowy peaks, crossing stone viaducts, and rolling past sparkling glaciers and mountain lakes.
The panoramic windows mean you won’t miss a second of the jaw-dropping views — from alpine villages to dramatic landscapes that look like they’re straight out of a fairytale. You’ll travel along part of a UNESCO World Heritage railway line, which reaches elevations over 2,200 meters without the help of a cogwheel! It’s a must-do if you’re looking for unique things to do in Italy that go beyond the usual tourist spots.
The tour includes free time in the glamorous town of St. Moritz, known for its upscale charm, chocolate shops, and lakeside walks. You’ll also pass through the scenic Italian countryside on your way there and back, making this an ideal addition to any Italy road trip.
🚞 Fun fact: The Bernina Express is one of the highest-altitude train routes in Europe, and it operates all year round — offering snowy wonderlands in winter and lush alpine views in summer.
👉 Click the button below the image to check availability and book this experience securely through Trip.com
Lakeside Luxury: Lake Como & Bellagio with Private Boat Cruise
Escape the city and soak up the glamor of northern Italy with this dreamy day trip to Lake Como and Bellagio, complete with a scenic private boat cruise. Starting from Milan, you’ll head to the shores of Lake Como — a place that’s enchanted everyone from George Clooney to ancient Roman nobles. It’s one of the most elegant things to do in Italy, especially if you’re looking to slow down and enjoy the finer side of travel.
First stop: Como town, where charming streets, local cafés, and lakefront views set the tone. Then it’s time to board a private boat and cruise across the sparkling waters, gliding past luxurious villas, forested hills, and picturesque villages tucked along the shoreline.
Your final destination? Bellagio, often called “the Pearl of Lake Como,” where cobblestone alleys, flower-draped balconies, and boutique shops invite you to slow down and explore.
💡 Fun fact: Lake Como is shaped like an upside-down “Y” and reaches over 400 meters deep — making it one of the deepest lakes in Europe.
This is a perfect stop on any Italy road trip, whether you’re traveling with a partner, capturing the scenery with your camera, or just chasing that peaceful, elegant slice of la dolce vita.
👉 Click the button below the image to check availability and book this experience securely through Trip.com
Ruins & a Volcano: Private Tour of Pompeii, Herculaneum & Mount Vesuvius
Step into the past and walk through stories frozen in time on this incredible private tour from Naples. You’ll visit Pompeii and Herculaneum, two ancient Roman cities buried by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD — and then you’ll actually stand on the volcano that caused it all. If you’re into history, volcanoes, or epic views, this is easily one of the most unforgettable things to do in Italy.
Start in Pompeii, where ash-preserved streets, villas, and even frescoes offer a hauntingly detailed glimpse into ancient Roman life. Then head to Herculaneum, a smaller but better-preserved site, where charred wooden beams and intact mosaics tell their own dramatic story.
And just when you think you’ve seen it all, you’ll drive up the slopes of Mount Vesuvius and hike to the crater’s edge. From here, you’ll get sweeping views over Naples and the Bay of Naples — and feel the thrill of standing on one of the world’s most infamous volcanoes.
💡 Fun fact: Mount Vesuvius is the only active volcano on mainland Europe, and it’s considered one of the most dangerous in the world — not because it erupts often, but because over 3 million people live nearby today.
This stop adds depth and drama to any Italy road trip, especially for travelers craving something beyond the usual sights.
👉 Click the button below the image to check availability and book this experience securely through Trip.com