Imposing ruins, ancient history, vibrant towns and the brooding Mount Etna - discover all of this and more as you explore Italy's largest island.
Borneo's natural haven beckons as you venture into lush rainforests, discover remarkable flora and fauna, and cherish the moment of your first glimpse of the rare orangutan.
Italy is home to iconic cities such as Rome, Pisa, Padua and Venice, each offering history, culture and unforgettable landmarks.
Its countryside is filled with charming hilltop towns, beautiful views and a wonderfully relaxed pace of life.
Visitors can enjoy everything from grand architecture and world-famous art to sparkling coastlines and peaceful lakes.
Italy is also celebrated for its shopping, from designer boutiques to colourful local markets full of regional character.
Food and wine are a highlight throughout the country, with every region offering its own distinctive flavours and traditions.
From the vineyards of Tuscany to Vatican City – here’s our pick of the finest experiences that Italy has to offer for solo travellers.
The timeless city of Rome is just bursting with incredible sites. The Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, Vatican City, and more all ooze with history, while elegant piazzas and atmospheric backstreets reveal another side to the capital. Seek out the capital’s quieter corners and be sure to try the mouth-watering ice cream!
Pastel-shaded houses tumbling down green hills, cobbled backstreets twisting off in all directions, cypress trees piercing the bluest skies – Italy’s countryside is dotted with idyllic hilltop retreats offering unmissable picture-perfect views. Many of these charming towns are also home to inviting cafés, local markets and a slower pace of life that makes them a joy to explore.
Urban Italy is perfect for sightseeing and a burst of culture. Pisa, famous for its Leaning Tower, also has 20 historic churches, while Padua has retained its medieval charm thanks to its ancient university. Of course, the canals of Venice are hard to beat, and make it unlike any other city you will ever see.
Andrea Palladio left a mighty mark on the Veneto region. The 16th century architect erected hundreds of gorgeous villas and palaces and, reviving the Greek and Roman styles, made an impact across Europe. Vicenza, home to some of his finest creations, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a showcase of Italy’s enduring architectural elegance.
Michelangelo, Botticelli and, of course, Da Vinci – Italy has produced some of the greatest artists in history. In the galleries of Florence art lovers can truly indulge themselves, but Venice and Rome also boast incredible collections. Beyond the museums, masterpieces can be found in churches, palaces and public spaces across the country.
Italy has 4,720 miles of coastline, most of it spectacular. Sorrento is particularly impressive, with sweeping sea views and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. Dine in a trattoria by the sea, enjoy a trip to the chic island of Capri, and gaze across the azure seas of the Amalfi Coast.
The cellars of Tuscany are filled with some of Europe’s finest wines so it would be rude not to stop for a vineyard tasting session. If you journey along the lesser known White Wine Road in the Veneto region, you’ll find yourself in the home of sparkling Prosecco. It’s a wonderful way to discover Italy’s landscapes, flavours and long-standing winemaking traditions.
From fashion to food, shopping in Italy is always world class. Browse the designer boutiques of Rome and Florence, snap up seaside styles in Sorrento or check out the chic shops around Lake Garda. Plus, nearly every Italian town boasts a colourful market, perfect for picking up local produce, handmade goods and regional specialities.
Lakes such as Como, Maggiore, Garda and Lugano provide some of the most inspiring vistas in Northern Italy. Skirted by tranquil forests, the lakeside towns offer relaxing retreats where boutique shopping, great food and relaxing drinks on terrace lookouts are always on the menu. With their elegant waterfronts and peaceful atmosphere, they are ideal for slowing down and soaking up the scenery.
From the succulent seafood of Naples to Tuscany’s rich vegetables and game, Italy is a gastronome’s delight. When you’re in the Veneto region try grappa – a glass of this fiery brandy heralding from Bassano is a wonderful way to end a meal. Every region has its own specialities, making Italy a destination to savour as much as to see.
Feeling inspired? Learn more about solo guided holidays to Italy.
Explore Tuscany's rolling countryside, dotted with olive groves, vineyards and medieval hilltop towns. You'll also visit Pisa, home of the Leaning Tower, and Florence, Italy's 'Art City'.
Discover the ruins of Pompeii and marvel at Mount Vesuvius from the comfort of your 4-star hotel in the beautiful Bay of Naples.
Explore the historic sites and rolling countryside of the undiscovered Cilento Coast then take time out to unwind in your hotel.
