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France and Italy: Best 2 to 3 week itinerary for first-time visitors

France and Italy make for a perfect first visit to Europe, but there are so many potential places to visit that planning well is extremely important. Of the two, Italy is a bit more straightforward because it has a “Big 3” of tourist cities consisting of Rome, Florence, and Venice. France, on the other hand, has Paris, but beyond the capital it can be hard to know where you should go.

These two countries contain several of what I consider to be the best cities in Europe to visit for anyone , so it’s just a matter of narrowing down where to go and how much time to spend in each place. In the article below you’ll see the best option to string together a tour of these countries in two or three weeks. There will be options and decisions you’ll have to make based on your own tastes, but no matter how you do it this should be an unforgettable trip.

This article was most recently updated in August, 2022.

How many cities to visit?

There are  many reasons why fast travel might be your best option , but only up to a point. With only a few exceptions, 3 nights per city is a good minimum even for those wishing to see as much as possible, or 2 nights in the smaller cities.

If you are going to France and Italy for sure then start with Paris and Rome as the foundation and add cities in between to the degree you’ll have time. France is a deceptively large country so travel will eat up some time unless you are flying or taking the bullet trains.

>>> Going just to Italy? :  Here are the best first-time Italy itineraries for 3 days to two weeks

Flying in and out

Unless you are starting from elsewhere in Europe, you’ll want to carefully choose which airport to fly into. It used to be that Paris was one of the cheapest, and it’s still competitive, but it doesn’t rank high on the list of  European cities that are cheapest to fly into .

Two one-way tickets is ideal

It used to be that round-trip tickets were always much cheaper than two one-way tickets, but often that is no longer true. Sometimes the one-way flights are exactly half the round-trip fare, sometimes a bit more than half, and other times they are double. It’s hard to predict so it’s worth comparing them yourself.

The first thing to try is this:

• (your city) to Paris one-way
• Rome to (your city) one-way

Compare that to this:

• (your city) to Paris round-trip
• (your city) to Rome round-trip

If the two one-way flights are within US$150 or so of either round-trip, then they are your best option. If the round-trips are much cheaper then your best option is to buy one of those as well as a one-way flight between the cities (for around US$100) for just before you fly home. It would cost more on the train and also take 14 hours, so flying that last part is the way to go unless you are planning on using the last leg of a Eurail Pass on an overnight run.

Getting around once in Europe

Even on trains, you still have three main options:

• Buying a France-Italy regional Eurail Pass
• Buying individual train tickets in advance
• Buying individual train tickets one at a time when you get there

If you are under 26 you can qualify for the 2nd Class Eurail Pass, which will be ideal for many people. If you are over 25 you have to buy a 1st Class Eurail Pass, and those are probably only best for those with a bit more money to spend.

Best cities in France and Italy for first-time visitors

Paris (minimum 3 nights but even that is rushing it).

It’s true that you can’t just all of France by just visiting Paris on your first trip, but it’s still not a bad idea because this city is the center of almost everything and even the areas surrounding it are filled with great sights, amazing histories, and plenty of things to do. It’s almost impossible to get a bad meal in the city and most of the food is reasonably priced considering the quality. Be prepared for a small hotel room, even if you pay a lot, so it’s more about paying for the location rather than for a luxurious and large place to sleep.

The sights in Paris are almost all worthwhile, but don’t think you have to spend an entire day in the Louvre in order to enjoy it. In fact, I highly recommend taking the 3-hour double-decker sightseeing tour (run by several companies) on your first day in order to see at least the exteriors of all of the famous landmarks. If you want to go inside at least a few of the big attractions you might consider getting a Paris Pass , which also covers the bus tour and a cruise on the Seine.

Spend at least three nights in Paris itself and if you have extra days you might do a day trip (tour buses are a great choice) of the nearby Loire Valley. It’s filled with famous castles and palaces where the rich used to live outside of the city, and many are available for tours.

Paris to Nice by train: About 6 hours

>>> Check Paris hotel deals

Provence region (optional 2 or 3 nights)

The main city is Arles and that is probably the best base, although Avignon (where the Popes lived) is also very tourist friendly and could be a good choice. In fact, Avignon is the beginning of the famous Côtes du Rhone wine road, which connects a series of hill towns with amazing scenery and of course wine tasting. Something like this might be better for a second or third trip to France unless you’ve got weeks to spend here. Provence is also known for its cuisine, as it stands out even within a country where the food is amazing virtually everywhere you go.

Paris to Avignon by train: About 3.5 hours Avignon to Nice by train: About 3 hours

Nice, France (minimum 2 nights)

Nice has a famous beach (made of pebbles rather than sand), but it’s also an important cultural capital with great museums and a thriving food scene. You could easily spend 2 or 3 quick days in Nice alone, but you might also consider spending a few hours in Cannes and/or Monaco, which are both only about 30 minutes away by train in either direction. The cheaper hotels in Nice are near the train station anyway, so that’s something to consider if you want to visit all 3 places in one short trip.

Nice to Milan by train: About 5 hours Nice to Venice by train: About 7.5 hours

>>> Check Nice hotel deals

Milan (1 night or just skip it)

The down side, however, is that Milan is mostly a business/financial city that isn’t as charming as the rest on this list. It’s one of Europe’s fashion capitals as well, but the casual visitor wouldn’t notice. Worst of all, accommodation in Milan can be insanely expensive if there is a trade fair or event in town. If you are coming through in between fairs and events, hotels can actually be unusually cheap, so it’s worth checking rates if you are considering stopping. Generally speaking, I recommend skipping Milan at least on your first trip.

>>> Check Milan hotel deals

Milan to Venice by train: About 2.5 hours

Venice (1 night minimum, 2 nights maximum)

The trick is to stay at least one night, if not two,  on the main island itself . Perhaps surprisingly, Venice shuts down early, with most restaurants and bars closed by around 10pm. But in those evening hours as well as the morning hours on the following day, the place can feel magical and like a fairy tale destination. Venice is also quite compact so seeing the main highlights in 24 hours isn’t difficult. Depending on your budget, spend one or two nights on the main island and you’ll be quite satisfied by the time you leave. You’ll be sick of the crowds by then anyway.

Venice to Florence by train: About 2 hours

>>> Check Venice hotel deals

Florence (2 nights minimum, plus side trips)

Whether you are coming from Venice or from Rome, this is the point on your trip that you’ll be able to catch your breath a bit. It’s also the cheapest city on this list so lingering here will be more affordable in addition to relaxing. The cuisine here is, of course, world famous, and it can get even better and cheaper if you spend a day or two in one of the many scenic villages in this part of Italy.

From Florence to Rome it’s only around 90 minutes by train, so another easy and pleasant travel day.

Pisa (a few hours on a day trip at most)

Regardless of your starting point, you can go to the Pisa Centrale train station and walk about 25 minutes to the Leaning Tower area, or take a train to the Pisa San Rossore train station and 7 minutes to the Field of Miracles. There are also bus tours from Florence that take you all the way there, but those come with the slowness of large-group travel.

>>> Check Florence hotel deals

Cinque Terre (1 night, optional)

When you see a photo of these villages it’s hard not to be drawn in so if you are in that group you could add a day or two in this area either before or after Florence. Note that the scenic footpaths connecting the towns are partly closed down at times due to instability, so a quick tour by train or even by boat might be a better option.

Florence to Rome by train: About 90 minutes

Rome (minimum 3 nights)

All of that said, Rome is absolutely a must-visit, although you won’t be blamed for hustling through the city quickly and efficiently so you can spend more time in the relative serenity of anywhere else. The Eternal City is also quite expensive, especially by Italian standards, which is another reason to save only a few days there rather than a full week.

>>> Check Rome hotel deals

Naples/Pompeii/Sorrento/Amalfi Coast (optional up to 4 nights)

The “big 3” in Italy are Rome, Florence, and Venice, and if you have time for only 3 cities those are the obvious ones to choose. But if you want to dig deeper into Italy and you have enough time, your next best choice will be to base yourself in Sorrento and use it to explore Naples, the ruins of Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, and the island of Capri.

Stay in Sorrento

Amalfi Coast and the Island of Capri

The other main nearby attraction is the famous tourist island of Capri, which is best known for its Blue Grotto attraction. The ferry from Sorrento only takes 20 minutes each way and leaves hourly most of the day. This is another easy and ideal day trip where you can have breakfast and dinner in Sorrento and a wonderful time in Capri in between.

>>> Check Sorrento hotel deals

Filling in the rest of your itinerary

If you have only two weeks total then the above minimums will also pretty much be your maximums, give or take a day. But if you have three weeks you will be adding days to these cities or adding new cities altogether. Honestly, if this is your first trip to these countries, you’ll really get the most bang for your buck by adding extra days in Paris or Florence or both.

Rushing around for two weeks can be exhilarating, but rushing around for three weeks can really start to get exhausting. It’s better to plan to go slower and if you are getting bored you can do a day or overnight trip to something nearby. But you won’t get bored, and if you do you are probably doing it wrong.

Cinque Terre photo by  World Walk About on Flickr

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France and Italy: Best 2 to 3 week itinerary for first-time visitors " --> All Comments

Thanks for the great starting point!!

Hi Roger, I just stumbled on your site and it is amazing, so thank you! I would like to take my wife, 15 and 18 year old kids to Europe in June 2024 for the first time. Gotta see Paris, but what other countries/cities would you recommend seeing if we were planning a 14 day trip. Having never been across the Atlantic it’s a bit overwhelming to a first timer. I like planning trips so I’m not opposed to doing it myself if possible. Any help or suggestions are greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance for your help.

I’m glad you have found this to be helpful. I think you are on the right track and with 14 days I’d start in Paris and then either stop in Nice or a wine region and then make my way to Italy for the second week. So again to simply, I’d start in Paris for 3 or 4 days and then probably choose something else in France for the next 3 or 4 days. Then get to Venice by train or plane and spend 1 or 2 days there (it’s small and you can see it in a day or so) and then take a train to Florence for 2 or 3 days and then a train to Rome for your final 3 days or so. Then you’ll probably have to fly back to Paris to board your flight home, but I’d check if you can get an open-jaw ticket that is home to Paris and then Rome to home. Usually those cost a lot more though.

The article above should give you lots of information and options on filling in the blanks. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

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12 Day Italy and France Itinerary for Food, Wine & Culture

We've created a 12 day Italy and France itinerary that takes you to incredible culinary destinations without the need for any flights.

Your France and Italy itinerary starts in the South of France and takes you on a journey to Provence, the Cote d'Azur, the Langhe wine region in Piedmont, along the Italian Riviera, and lastly, to Florence and Tuscany.

This itinerary is for you if you're a food and wine enthusiast, enjoy local cultural experiences, road trips, architecture, history and nature.

How to get from France to Italy

Did you know that picking up your rental car in France and returning it in Italy can double the rental cost? We managed to save 50% on our rental by returning our first car in Monaco and taking a train to Savona, Italy. The train system connecting France and Italy is quick and convenient. Once in Savona, we rented a new car for the next leg of our journey in Italy.

France and Italy Itinerary Map

• Days 1-3: Pick up your rental car at the Marseille Airport and start your journey in the heart of Provence.
• Day 4: After exploring Provence, drop off your rental car in Monaco. Spend the night either in glamorous Monte Carlo or in the seaside town of Menton.
• Days 5-7: Catch a train to Savona, Italy, and pick up your next rental car for a scenic road trip through the Langhe wine region in Piedmont.
• Days 8-9: Drive from Piedmont to the Italian Riviera and stay along the beachfront in Camogli for the next two nights.
• Days 10-12: Continue your road trip from the Italian Riviera to Florence and drop off your rental car in the city.

Italy and France Itinerary 12 Days

Days 1-3: Provence | Day 4: Cote d'Azur | Days 5-7: Piedmont | Days 8-9: Italian Riviera | Days 9-12: Florence & Tuscany

Days 1 - 3: Provence

Explore the tranquil countryside as you uncover hilltop villages, vibrant local markets, taste rosé wines and enjoy fresh Provencal cuisine

The Luberon region of Provence

Your first three days bring you to the picturesque Luberon region in the heart of Provence. The Luberon is steeped in history, featuring charming hilltop villages and centuries-old vineyards. It's a place of serenity, where local markets, quaint restaurants serving Provençal cuisine and rosé winemaking have deeply influenced Provence's culture.

For those seeking a tranquil getaway, the Luberon region offers breathtaking views, culinary delights, and immersive cultural experiences that embody the essence of Provence.

The drive from the Marseille Airport to the Luberon region is under an hour.

What to do in Provence

See our detailed 3 Day Provence itinerary including where to stay, where to eat and unique places you don't want to miss .

Here are the highlights:

🧺 🎵 Dive into Lourmarin's creative culture, have a picnic by a 15th-century castle, and soak in the lively local market and vibrant old-centre square.

👀 See a panoramic view of the Luberon Valley from atop Bonnieux village.

🥗 Have a scenic lunch in Menerbes and explore the village.

🧡 Walk through the bohemian village of Roussillon and see the striking ochre cliffs.

🪻 Take a scenic drive through the countryside to the enchanting village of Gordes.

👨‍🍳 Experience Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt and Goult's fresh culinary scene.

Read the full 3 day itinerary here

Day 4: Cote d'Azur

Continue your journey to the French Riviera and stay in either the glamorous Monte Carlo district of Monaco or the relaxed seaside town of Menton

The Côte d'Azur, also known as the French Riviera, stretches along the coastline from Saint Tropez to Menton and is approximately a 2.5-hour drive from the Luberon region. We recommend returning your rental car in Monaco and spending the night in either Monte Carlo or Menton. The train ride between the two places is only 11 minutes.

If you're looking for glitz and glamour, Monte Carlo is the choice, while Menton offers a laid-back seaside village atmosphere.

Option 1: Experience the high-flying lifestyle in the Monte Carlo district of Monaco

Monte Carlo district in Monaco

Monaco, known as the "playground for millionaires," offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle. With Porsche taxis and Ferraris casually cruising the streets, it's an intriguing and sometimes peculiar destination to visit.

In Monaco, not only do you get to tick another country off your list, you also get to see opulent architectural treasures and iconic spots found nowhere else. It also carries that cool James Bond appeal, as the Monte Carlo district has been used as a filming location many times in these films.

Monaco is an ideal choice if you're willing to splurge and the thought of dressing up for a glamorous night out excites you.

Check out our comprehensive 1 Day Monaco itinerary , complete with where to stay, must-see places and unique things to do.

🛥️ Stroll along Port Hercule to see the impressive mega-yachts.

🌞 Take a walk around Place du Casino plaza during the golden hour and appreciate the Beaux-Arts architecture.

🎤🍸 Listen to live jazz at a 1920s-inspired cocktail bar.

🎰 Dress to the nines and indulge in people-watching at the legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo.

Read the full 1 day itinerary here

Option 2: Hangout in the relaxed seaside village of Menton

If Monaco's extravagant lifestyle isn't your preference, consider staying in the laid-back seaside town of Menton. Often overshadowed by its famous French Riviera neighbours, Menton is beloved by locals for its historic Old Town, Baroque-style architecture, high-quality lemons and picturesque Mediterranean coastline.

A bonus is that Menton is more budget-friendly than other French Riviera destinations. Take your time strolling through charming narrow passageways, admire the colourful historic buildings, enjoy beach walks, shop the boutiques and relax at sidewalk cafes to absorb the atmosphere.

• Hotel de Londres
• Ibis Styles Menton Centre

Days 5 - 7: Piedmont

Relax in the Italian countryside, sample world-famous Barolo and Barbaresco wines, and discover the slow food movement in Italy's under-the-radar wine region

Langhe wine region in Piedmont, Italy

Piedmont, Italy's second-largest region, has remained largely undiscovered by international tourists, but its popularity is growing, especially among Italians seeking a wine retreat in nature.

Known as Piemonte in Italian, this region is gaining recognition for its sustainable luxury accommodations, culinary scene dedicated to the slow-food movement, and unique wine and truffle experiences. Complementing these offerings is a stunning landscape of vine-covered hills set against the backdrop of the Alps, making Piedmont a true Italian treasure.

We recommend spending your three days in the Langhe wine region, home to Piedmont's most renowned wines: Barolo and Barbaresco.

To reach Piedmont, take a train from Monaco or Menton to Savona, Italy, and then pick up your rental car from there. It's just a 1.25-hour drive from Savona to the Langhe wine region of Piedmont.

What to do in Piedmont

See our detailed 3 Day Piedmont Itinerary , including hotels with scenic views to stay at, exceptional wine tasting experiences, unique dining spots and charming villages to discover.

🍇 Taste renowned Barolo wines at Ceretto, one of the world's best wineries.

🍷 Visit Ca' del Baio, a small family-owned winery producing top-notch Barbaresco wines.

🏘 Explore the enchanting villages of Barbaresco, La Morra, and Barolo.

🥩 🥗 Eat Piedmontese cuisine at some of the Langhe wine region's best restaurants.

Days 8 - 9: Italian Riviera

Unwind in the gorgeous seaside villages of Camogli and Portofino that each have a completely unique character.

Top: Portofino | Bottom: Camogli

Continue your road trip from the vine-covered hills of Piedmont to the Italian Riviera, where pastel-coloured buildings overlook the Mediterranean Sea.

We recommend staying your next two nights in Camogli, one of the Italian Riviera's best-kept secrets. The coastal village is a popular summer getaway for Italians but often missed by international travellers who visit famous seaside villages like Portofino and Cinque Terre nearby. This maintains Camogli's authentic, down-to-earth atmosphere rooted in local culture. It's also a lot cheaper than staying in Portofino nearby.

From Camogli, it's easy to take a day trip to the neighbouring village of Portofino, a luxurious retreat that lures international travellers and the rich and famous on their yachts. While it may lack the authentic local charm found in Camogli, its captivating beauty and glamorous atmosphere make it an exciting visit.

What to do in Camogli and Portofino

See our detailed Camogli and Portofino travel guides to see where to stay, where to swim and the best things to do in the villages.

🍹 Enjoy aperitivos overlooking the sea at golden hour

🍝 🌊 Have a romantic seaside dinner

👙 Soak up the Mediterranean sun at the beach

 🫓 Try Revello's famous cheese focaccia

👀 Walk up to Saint Georgie's castle for a scenic viewpoint of Portofino

🛥️✨ People-watch and enjoy lunch along Portofino's fabulous harbour

Read the full Camogli and Portofino travel guides.

Days 10 - 12: Florence and Tuscany

Uncover Florence's history, culture and iconic architectural sights, and take a day trip into the Tuscan countryside to taste wines.

Top: Florence | Bottom: Tuscan countryside

Your journey continues from the Italian Riviera to Florence and the Tuscan countryside. Drop your rental car off in Florence and take your first two days to explore the romantic city known as the birthplace of the Renaissance. Florence is filled with history, culture and iconic architectural sights, and is one of the best cities for shopping we've ever visited.

On the third day, take a day trip to the Chianti wine region in Tuscany to taste renowned Chianti Classico wines and explore medieval hillside villages.

What to do in Florence and Tuscany

See our comprehensive 3 Day Florence and Tuscany Itinerary , including where to stay, iconic sights and unique experiences you don't want to miss.

👢 Stroll and shop Florence's historic centre

🍹 Walk around the Duomo di Firenze and choose a sidewalk cafe for aperitivos

🥪 Eat one of Florence's famous schiacciata sandwiches from All'antico Vinaio

🌞 Walk across Ponte Alla Carraia Bridge at golden hour

🧺 Enjoy a sunset picnic with panoramic city views

🍷 Order a glass of wine from a wine window steeped in history

🎉 Immerse yourself in Oltrarno's vibrant local scene

🍸 Drink cocktails at one of the world's best bars

🍇 Explore quaint medieval villages and visit impressive wineries in the Chianti wine region

We hope you enjoyed this 12 day Italy and France itinerary!

Get started on booking your trip to France and Italy

• 🌃 Accommodation: Book your stay in Provence , Monaco / Menton , Piedmont , Camogli and Florence . Booking.com is our go-to for finding places to stay. Sort by top reviewed.
• 🚆 Book your train from the South of France to Italy: compare rates with Trainline
• 🚗 Reserve your car rental in Italy: see Rentalcars.com to compare car rental prices across different companies.

Don't miss our other France and Italy itineraries:

• 2 Weeks in Italy including the Amalfi Coast
• 5 Day Tuscany itinerary to Siena, Chianti and Montalcino
• 1 Week Florence and Tuscany itinerary
• 4 Day Florence and Tuscany itinerary
• 1 Week Paris and Provence itinerary

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• How to Plan a Trip to Italy and France 2024: 5 Easy Steps

Italy and France boast numerous world-famous landmarks. They are a good combo for a trip to Europe.

In this guide, we'll help you put together a tour of Italy and France, ensuring a memorable journey filled with culture, history, and scenic beauty.

Content Preview

• 1. How Long to Spend
• 2. Itinerary Suggestions
• 3. Best Times
• 5. How to Travel

How Many Cities to Visit and How Long to Spend There

If you want to make the most of this trip to get a classic experience without rushing, we suggest a period of about 12 to 14 days.

You could spend about a week in Italy in two or three cities, usually chosen from its top three cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice. The other week, you would go to France to tour two or three cities, such as Paris, Marseille, and Nice, which are a classic combination.

If you are short on time, make sure to allow at least 10 days for both countries. Spend 5 days in Italy for one or two cities, such as Rome and Florence for culture and history or Rome and Venice for families.

Another 5 days are an ideal minimum for France. Paris is a must. Besides Paris, you could add one more city. Lyon is good for its historical sights, old towns, and food, and Nice is renowned for its beaches.

If you want to explore more places in Italy and France, you may need more than 2 weeks. Then, you could explore southern Italy, for example, the Amalfi Coast (2–3 days) and Sicily (3–7 days). You could go to France's Provence (2–3 days) or Bordeaux (2–3 days) for a wine tour.

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Italy and France Itinerary Suggestions

Here are two itinerary ideas, for inspiration.

10-Day Itinerary of Italy and France

• Days 1–3: Rome
• Days 4–5: Florence
• Day 6: Fly to Paris
• Days 7–8: Paris
• Days 9–10: Lyon

We suggest not packing your 10-day itinerary too tightly and recommend exploring 1–2 significant cities in each country.

During a 5-day trip to Italy, consider visiting Rome and Florence. These two cities epitomize Italy's cultural and historical richness, showcasing ancient Roman ruins and various renowned museums.

If you're traveling with children, you might consider replacing Florence with Venice. Venice is like a water-themed paradise where kids could enjoy entertaining boat rides and explore some interesting islands.

In the remaining 5 days in France, visit the famous Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum in Paris. Take a boat cruise along the Seine River to admire Paris from a different perspective. Explore Lyon's old town and visit its iconic basilica, offering panoramic views of Lyon from the Fourvière Hill.

Contact us if you need suggestions on your upcoming France and Italy trip. We would create your itinerary based on your interests and requirements.

14 Days in France and Italy

Week 1: France

• Days 1–3: Paris
• Days 4–5: Marseille
• Days 6–7: Nice

Week 2: Italy

• Days 8–10: Rome
• Days 11–12: Florence
• Days 13–14: Venice

In the first week in France, besides Paris, you could go to southern France to explore the French Riviera. Marseille and Nice are the representative cities. There, you could enjoy the beaches and visit old ports, towns, and markets. If you have time, you could discover Monaco, a country within a country.

In Italy, you could go on a classic route to visit the top three cities. Learn about the history of ancient Rome by exploring historical ruins and architecture, such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Trevi Fountain. Learn about the Renaissance in Florence's museums and streets. Experience the beauty of Venice in its canals.

Feel free to contact us if you are interested in this itinerary or if you want to make an itinerary based on your own ideas.

Best Times to Visit France and Italy

If you want to have a good time with comfortable weather and relatively fewer crowds, we recommend visiting France and Italy in April, May, early June, September, and October.

Late June, July, and August are the peak season. July and August are also the months to appreciate Provence's lavender. Summer in France is cooler than in Italy. In July, the highest temperatures in Paris are usually about 30°C (86°F), while Rome sometimes exceeds 35°C (95°F).

If you are planning a summer trip to Italy and France, make sure to book in advance (at least 3 months). With careful planning and expert advice, you could still have an enjoyable tour during the peak season. Feel free to contact us if you need any help.

Winter is the offseason in both countries. Winters are chilly, sometimes with rain. But you could enjoy less-crowded attractions and get better discounts.

You could learn more information on the weather and travel by reading our Best Times to Visit Italy .

Costs for a Trip to Italy and France

The travel cost in France could be a little more expensive than for Italy. The daily private tour cost in Italy is typically about 400–500 USD per person and 500–600 USD in France.

These estimated prices are based on a high-quality private tour for two people, including airfares within/between Italy and France, 4- or 5-star hotels, attractions, guides, and transfers. Kids under 10 would get 30–50% off.

We would give you a more detailed quote based on your specific itinerary, your travel time, group size, and other requirements. Feel free to contact us .

How to Travel between Italy and France

Flying is the most recommended and quickest way to travel between France and Italy. The major cities in Italy (Rome, Venice, and Florence) have direct flights to Paris. The journey takes about 2 hours.

If you're not in a hurry and want a slower pace of travel, you could also consider taking the train. There is a direct train between Paris and Milan, but it was closed due to a landslide in the Alps. If you want to take a train now, you would need to change at Geneva in Switzerland. The whole train journey takes about 10 hours.

Transportation arrangements between the two countries are included in our tour services. We will recommend the best way for you to travel between Italy and France and book tickets in advance according to the itinerary arrangements between the two countries and your preferences.

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How to Plan a Trip to France and Italy: Best 2 to 3 Weeks Travel Itinerary!

The France and Italy trip will show up as an exciting adventure as we reveal the inside scoop on planning the perfect trip to Italy and France. “How to plan a trip to France and Italy” takes on a more poetic form, where every word paints a picture of your adventure.

On this trip you will get the opportunity to walk through the charming streets of Paris, taste the delicious food of Tuscany, and taking in the interesting mix of cultures from these two lovely countries. This tour is more to this than just a lesson. This is more like a story that will take you on a beautiful journey through the French and Italian countryside.

Join me as I arrange a symphony of events on the Italy and France itinerary. From the ancient Colosseum to the world-famous Eiffel Tower, every detail is well planned, and your journey reads like a masterpiece.

Deciding the Perfect Time for Your France and Italy Trip

Setting off on a trip is a lovely way to start an adventure that knows no limits and moves to the beat of wanderlust. But, just like the speed bumps on the way to dreamland, there are a lot of questions that may come up before you start one.

How to plan a trip to France and Italy? When will be the perfect time to plan a proper Italy and France itinerary for 12 days? And many others.

Don’t be scattered! I am here to let your trip story unfold as we talk about the fine art of planning. Also, how to turn unknowns into threads that make a vivid and unforgettable journey.

Weather Conditions in France and Italy

The France and Italy trip is a timeless wonder that can be explored all year unless it changes abruptly. Hence, you can plan the perfect family trip to France and Italy, creating lasting memories amidst the ever-changing beauty of Europe.

From the historic charm of Lyon to the elegance of Paris, France’s changing seasons create an enticing picture of culture and taste. Summer dazzles with vibrant festivities , while autumn uncovers an attractive landscape . Winter , though cool, spreads festive charm . Spring , a blooming spectacle, offers mild warmth .

On the other hand, with the four seasons intertwined, Italy’s weather creates a beautiful tapestry. Summers radiate warmth , making for delightful excursions, while springs and autumns entice with their pleasantness . Cherish the briskness of winter , which is chillier in the north and produces a varied and beautiful weather canvas .

Ideal Season for Visiting France and Italy

Well, Planning a trip to Paris and Italy or any other European country means writing a story where every visit is a chapter of an enchanting tale.

In summer, France resonates with warmth , offering al fresco delights , from Lyon’s historical charm to Marseille’s Mediterranean embrace. Autumn unveils a scenic canvas, perfect for vineyard explorations in Burgundy. Winter casts a festive spell, with Christmas markets and vibrant city life. Spring , a bloom of beauty, lures with milder temperatures and blossoming landscapes.

On the other hand, summer and autumn are the busiest times in Italy. During this time, incredible festivals like Festa dei Ranieri, the Feast of Saint Rosalia, the San Gennaro Festival, and film festivals are held. The country becomes colorful with a festive look.

Going there in the fall is the best bet if you want to experience each season on a single trip. Since it encompasses all four seasons.

Bonus Tips:  ➜ If you enjoy skiing, a winter vacation to Italy might be a great choice. ➜ On the other hand, summer is the most affordable time to go.

Now, tell me which season do you think is the best time to visit France and Italy, or which will be best for you?

How to Plan a Trip to France and Italy: Organizing Your Travel

Planning each detail of a journey is essential before leaving on an adventure. Follow these steps to organize the France and Italy tour.

Read the next section to learn how to plan a trip to Italy and France!

Securing the Best Flight Deals

When it comes to buying flights, plan an affordable trip to France or Italy. In this regard, you can use Google Flight to get the best flight deals. You can also use other trusted travel search engines such as Skyscanner, Expedia, and so on, which will assist you in finding different France, Italy, and Greece vacation packages that are quite reasonable.

On some special occasions , they offer many discounts . Keep an eye on these offers. You can get a cheap flight if you can consider round-trip trips. I hope that by following these insights, you can save time, money, and frustration on your next European adventure.

Train and Bus Options from Europe

Do you know, in Western and Central Europe, traveling from Paris to Rome by train is by far the most common and pleasant way to get around? The Italy and France trip is a breeze with their first-rate train service.

You need to book a seat in advance or buy a specialized day ticket to travel great distances by train in Europe. Particularly on international or high-speed routes Websites like RailEurope.com streamline the procedure by providing easy-to-understand English instructions. Also gives the ability to book across many rail providers.

“Non-Europeans can use a Eurail pass, while European nationals can use an Interrail pass. This allows unlimited travel within a certain number of days, for extended train travel.” Source: Travel Stack Exchange

It has become the mode of choice for crossing the continent for those on a tighter budget. Flixbus provides a vast network over France and most of Europe, unlike Megabus’s UK operations.

There are regional versions that are tailored to certain locations, such as Marino Bus in Italy and neighboring countries. Platforms such as BusRadar or Get By Bus assist in finding the most economical and quickest bus routes for your journey.

Special Tips:  While trains are more comfortable, buses are a good option for the France and Italy itinerary for 7 days or within shorter trips.

Essential Travel Documents and Preparations

Before you pack your bags and hop on a trip like a London, Paris, Italy, or Greece tour, you need to take care of some essential travel documents and preparations. Such as a valid passport , a visa , travel insurance , and a France and Italy trip itinerary that covers your destinations, activities, and budget.

You also need to book your flights , hotels , and transportation for your tour that will take you to the most amazing places in Europe. Need help to grasp the concept?

How about simplifying it with more details? Check out the next section to get a clear idea.

Passport and Visa Requirements

Make sure you are well informed on these preparations and have all the necessary paperwork ready for your trip to France and Italy:

• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your date of departure.
• The 12-page U.S. emergency passport without a visa is not acceptable in both France and Italy.
• If you are going to travel to France and Italy for up to 90 days then you don’t need any visa .
• Keep insurance , evidence of an onward travel ticket, and proof of accommodation with you.

Related Post: Do You Need a Green Card to Travel to France?

Travel Insurance: Why You Need It

If you are not from the Schengen area then you need a visa for a France and Italy trip. And for applying for the visa you must have travel insurance. Now, you must be thinking what is Schengen, right?

“Schengen is an area made up of France, Italy, Spain, and other 24 countries of Europe. You don’t need any visa to go from one country to another within this region.”

Other than this, if you have an accident, medical emergency, theft, flight delays or cancellations, or any other problem, travel insurance can help you pay for it.

Moreover, to get a national visa for France or Italy, you may need international health insurance . That covers your stay if you are traveling for a specific reason or for a longer length of time.

Crafting the Perfect Itinerary

You will find many resources in online like the France and Italy itinerary for 7 days or the France and Italy itinerary for 10 days . But I would suggest if you really want to enjoy your trip to the fullest then you should take some extra days in hand.

Trust me, you are going to regret going there and get back without visiting the must-visit places. A well-thought-out holiday includes everything you need for a safe and fun trip, as well as chances to make memories that will last a lifetime.

In this situation, you may think about whether is France safe to travel alone . The answer is a big YES! It’s completely safe for all travelers. And just to make sure, let’s make a tour that speaks to your spirit by going to places and doing things that go smoothly together.

Must-Visit Places in France

Here I am giving a list of the best places in France that you should not miss at any cost. So, add them to your France trip planner and travel like an explorer!

Paris is a city of beauty, culture, and romance. The iconic Eiffel Tower offers city views. Arc de Triomphe , a monument to brave soldiers, overlooks a metropolis. The Louvre is home to iconic works including the Mona Lisa.

There are plenty of options for travelers to choose from when traveling from Paris to the South of France , making it an adventure not to be missed.

Notre Dame is a Gothic gem with stained glass and gargoyles. Paris’ Champs-Elysées , is lined with wealth, culture, and history. The trek through Grand Palais, Petit Palais, and the Place de la Concorde recalls guillotine legends.

Explore through Avignon and admire the Palace of the Popes to start the day. Enjoy a private wine tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s famous vineyards, tasting red and white wines. Experience Luberon’s medieval hilltop villages , scenic landscape, Lacoste, Bonnieux, Roussillon, and Oppede le Vieux on a unique tour. Lastly, you can visit the Cinque Terre .

Choose a private Aix-en-Provence walking tour or a Saint Remy and Les Baux trip with winery and museum stops. Visit the stunning Carrières de Lumières cave of light!

You can easily travel from Paris to Nice by bus, train, or self-driving. If you are planning a south of France and Italy itinerary then this is a must-visit place. Nice day trips reveal the French Riviera ‘s jewels. Start in medieval Eze and learn about French perfume at the Fragonard plant.

Explore the Trophy of the Alps ruins before visiting Monte Carlo Casino and the Grand Prix track. Or you can also start from your Nice hotel on this full-day trip of the French Riviera, chauffeured to Saint Paul-de-Vence and Cannes. Eze, Monaco, and Monte Carlo are easy to visit, so enjoy them.

Plan winery tours and tastings or a half-day Siena walking tour. Enjoy a market trip , cooking lesson , and 4-course Tuscan supper . Private transfers make entering and leaving Florence easy.

Must-Visit Places in Italy

Start your day with the Morning Vatican Tour to see the Sistine Chapel without crowds. Enjoy Ancient Rome with VIP Colosseum Underground access, uncovering fascinating stories of historical personalities and sites.

Explore the Borghese Gallery , an Italian art masterpiece. These events will deepen your connection to Rome’s rich culture, leaving lasting memories.

Explore Pompeii, frozen in time after Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. This historic city, buried in ash, offers a unique look at Roman life. Look into its enormous breadth and admire the Temple, Forum, House of Faun, Thermal Baths, Amphitheater, and Brothel.

The eerie “bodies” sculptures depict the cataclysm’s victims’ agony. Pompeii’s historical significance and size make it a remarkable archaeological site that vividly depicts the past.

A day trip to Naples, known as the pizza birthplace and home to a world-class archaeology museum, is sure to be an enjoyable adventure.

Charming Sorrento is a great jumping-off point for a visit to Naples, a city that combines a wealth of history with delicious cuisine. Sadly, it has a bad name for pickpockets and other street thieves.

Making Your Accommodation Plans

Choosing the right accommodations for your France and Italy vacation requires careful consideration. In this section on how to plan a trip to France and Italy, we will discuss the accommodation arrangements that you will need.

In France , traditional hotels or self-catered flats near city centers are great for convenient access to Paris, Nice, Bordeaux, and Strasbourg attractions. For rustic lodging in the Alps and Pyrenees, consider chalets. Provence and the Loire Valley provide charming villas and chateaux.

Private beach homes or sea-view hotels await in the French Riviera or Brittany. For a pleasant stay, use online platforms , local recommendations , and flexible cancellation policies .

In Italy , consider non-hotel accommodations for a great vacation. B&Bs create intimate interactions with owners or family workers. With their space and affordability , apartments are a great choice for week-long stays. Farm-fresh dishes and lovely countryside settings make charming agritourism stand out.

Location and views are more important than size, so choose charming accommodations. For a memorable Italian vacation, have genuine encounters with kind hosts.

Affordable and Comfortable Accommodation Options

In both countries, popular cities like Paris, Nice, Rome, and Florence offer a range of budget-friendly hotels that provide affordable yet comfortable lodging. The benefits of choosing budget-friendly hotels include potential savings that can be redirected towards exploring local attractions, enjoying regional cuisine, and experiencing the cultural richness of these destinations.

On the other hand, Tourists seeking luxurious accommodations in France and Italy can indulge in opulent stays in renowned cities like Paris, Cannes, Rome, and Venice , which boast a plethora of upscale hotels.

The benefits of choosing luxurious hotels extend beyond the lavish accommodations to encompass an unparalleled level of comfort, attention to detail, and an immersive experience that complements the cultural richness of these captivating destinations.

Here are some of the places mentioned in the text, along with their cost and location:

• Hotel Sainte Barbe, Le Conquet: This modern Brittany hotel has sea views, a pool, a spa, a restaurant, and a rooftop bar. From September to March , the Sun-Thurs Après Weekend half-board package costs around €110 per person each night. Hotel Sainte Barbe.
• Les Charmettes, Saint-Malo: The welcoming hotel in two 19th-century homes overlooks Rochebonne Beach on Saint Malo’s beachfront. It includes 16 cozy sea or garden-view accommodations and a beach house restaurant. Without breakfast, rooms cost €74 per night.
• Le Lodge Kerisper, La Trinité-sur-Mer: A peaceful resort in southern Brittany has 20 bright, vintage-style rooms. It offers a garden, pool, bar, and sunny atrium for breakfast. Rooms cost €89 per night, excluding breakfast. This is a great option for those who are going on a family trip to France and Italy.
• Il Guelfo Bianco: This cheap Florence hotel has good reviews. A historic structure houses an organic eatery. Free Wi-Fi and bike rental are available at the motel. Double rooms cost €80 per night, including breakfast.
• Alma Hotel: This Sicilian hotel near the beach and Cefalù is lovely. A rooftop sundeck and 26 sea or mountain-view rooms are available. A beach shuttle and Sicilian restaurant are also available at the hotel. Double rooms with breakfast cost €70 per night.
• Hotel Premiere Abano Terme:  This Veneto spa hotel is near Abano Terme’s thermal waters. The hotel features 50 balcony rooms and a spa facility with a sauna, Turkish bath, and pool. The hotel offers a playground and a restaurant serving local and foreign cuisine. Double rooms with breakfast cost €59 per night.

In France, cities like Paris are home to iconic luxury hotels such as The Ritz and Hotel Plaza Athénée , known for their lavish amenities and exquisite service.

Meanwhile, Italy offers sumptuous options like the Hotel de Russie in Rome or the Gritti Palace in Venice, providing a blend of historical charm and modern luxury.

Navigating through France and Italy

Since you’ve read the blog this far and still reading I guess you are enjoying my writing! Or you still have questions regarding how to plan a trip to Italy and France. Well, I have talked quite a lot about France and Italy’s famous places, accommodations and necessary document information.

In the next section, I will guide you through the excellent public transit systems of France and Italy that make getting around a breeze and won’t break the bank.

So that it can help you make a perfect plan for an Italy and France itinerary for 14 days or more.

Train Travel Tips in France and Italy

Take a scenic train ride through the middle of Europe, linking the two most populous countries, France and Italy. No matter how far is France from Italy by train.

The gorgeous routes along the French and Italian Rivieras and the fast Frecciarossa trains that can take you from Paris to Milan in under 6 hours make train travel an amazing experience. So, this is the best option for the London, Paris, Italy, and Greece tour .

Local train companies make it easy to buy tickets for domestic trips. But it is wise to buy tickets a day or two in advance. This changes with high-speed, overnight, or international long-distance trains like France’s TGV and others. These require seat reservations or day-specific tickets with changeable pricing to encourage early booking.

With its many firms, ticketing methods, and languages, the European rail system can be confusing. However, RailEurope simplifies the procedure by booking multiple rail operators. Bookings are easy for savvy travelers with English instructions.

Guidelines for Driving in France and Italy

Taking a road trip throughout Europe in your own or hired automobile can be thrilling. It will also help you in saving time. You will be able to plan a perfect Italy and France itinerary for 14 days by driving on your own .

All you need is to drive a manual vehicle, an International Driving Permit (if you’re an EU outsider), and third-party liability insurance . In this case, we will provide some tips for driving that will ensure to get the best driving experience. Though crossing EU borders is usually easy, going outside may cost more.

You can also go for car renting options from Avis , Hertz , and Europcar . They also have France, Italy, and Greece vacation packages. For a mini-road excursion, a rental automobile may appeal. As a long-distance ride-sharing company, BlaBlaCar offers convenience and affordability to travelers.

Public Transportation Vs Car Rentals

Transportation depends on your budget , itinerary , and interests . For me, the France and Italy by train itinerary is always mesmerizing. I prefer a train for comfort, safety, and price . This lets you relax, enjoy the landscape, and save money. That will provide you with the best experience for traveling around France without a car .

Special Notes:  The best part is fast, easy, and dependable train travel is common in Paris and Italy itinerary. Discounts, passes, and special deals are also available.

The only problem with Rail travel is, that it is less flexible, convenient, and adventurous than vehicle rental. Also, you will have less access to vineyards, rural areas, and historical attractions by train.

On the other hand, you can prefer car rental for ease, flexibility, and privacy . You can explore the countryside, tiny towns, and off-the-beaten-path in your own time.

However, compared to trains, automobile rentals are more expensive and unsafe . You must cope with traffic, parking, tolls, and unknown roads. Gas, insurance, and fines are extra.

Exploring Major Attractions

France and Italy are two of the most popular and beautiful countries in Europe. From the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris to the stunning Colosseum in Rome, from the charming canals of Venice to the majestic castles of France, there is so much to see and do in these countries.

That’s why I keep saying that the Italy and France itinerary of 12 days or even the Italy and France itinerary of 14 days that you find online is not good enough to witness all the charms and beauties of these two countries.

So, without wasting time, let’s have a quick check of the planning and booking!

Booking Tickets for Renowned Attractions

If you ask me when you should book your tickets and accommodations, then my answer would be as soon as possible before starting to travel to France and Italy. Especially during the peak seasons, these countries get very busy. At that time you hardly can find a suitable hotel or tickets.

So it is always better to book your tickets and accommodations 6-12 months before the trip . For train reservations and tickets , it is good enough to book them 3–4 months ahead of the tour during the spring and summer.

“For booking air tickets online you can visit Google Flights and for train tickets check Eurorail.”

Related Post: Best Airlines to Fly to France from US

Popular Day Tours in France and Italy

A popular day tour is almost like the best time to visit France and Italy. That means it depends on you. There are many cool options for a day trip in France and Italy. With a car, excellent music, and good company it becomes even more fascinating.

However,  If you’re new to French and Italian roads, carry a France, Italy, and Greece itinerary that covers roads, requirements, and rules. You can start from the south of France from the French Riviera to Rome . You can explore the best small towns in the south of France and this road is full of gorgeous beaches, Mediterranean cuisine, and a jet-set atmosphere.

In Paris, you can also enjoy a cruise or ferry along the Seine River and admire the views of the city from the water. Alternatively, you can take a day trip to the nearby Versailles Palace , the former residence of the French kings, and marvel at its lavish gardens and fountains.

Or you can explore the wine capital of France , and visit some of the prestigious wineries and vineyards of the Medoc , Saint-Emilion , and Sauternes appellations in Bordeaux.

You can experience the romance and charm of the City of Canals , and explore its narrow streets, bridges, and squares in Venice. Alternatively, you can take a day trip to the nearby islands of Murano and Burano , and witness the art of glassblowing and lace-making.

In Florence, you can take a day trip to the nearby Tuscany region, and visit the picturesque towns of Siena , San Gimignano, and Pisa . From Naples, you can take a day trip to the nearby Amalfi Coast , enjoy the stunning views of the sea and the cliffs, and stop at the colorful towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello .

Budgeting Your Trip

Paris and Italy itinerary or any other country trip in Europe is always a dream for many travelers. Do you think this is only because of the beauty and diverse festivals of these countries?

No, travelers also admire the many dependable travel options and accommodations they provide, which allow them to have fun without putting much load on their tour budget.

If you are visiting France and Italy for the first time, then the next segment is for you. In the next section, you will get a clear idea.

Estimating Daily Costs

Estimating the daily cost of Italy and France depends on some factors like which city you want to stay in, for how long and in which cases you want to spend , etc.

For example, staying in a cheap hotel in France can cost you around €30-50 per night. In moderate or luxury hotels it will increase up to €100-300 .

It shouldn’t cost more than €10 per day if you use public transportation for travel from one place to another. All these prices are estimated costs. These can be changed with the time and situation.

Anticipated Costs and Money-Saving Tips

Check out the tips and tricks that can help you save extra money on the trip:

• If you go between mid-October and mid-March , you can save money on flights, hotels, and trips.
• Use metro , bus, and tram passes in big to medium-sized cities. For example, the Paris Visite Pass lets you move as much as you want and gets you into many attractions for less money.
• Smaller towns are better than big cities for finding cheap places to stay, eat, and use services.
• If you want to save a lot of money on train travel between towns and regions , buy a rail pass.
• On some occasions, flights give attractive discounts on France, Italy Greece vacation packages. So, keep an eye on the websites.
• If you want to use an ATM or pay with a credit card abroad, check your bank’s fees. You can also compare rates from different credit card companies .
• Check out full guides for more information on how to have a cheap trip to France and Paris.
• Learning a few important phrases in French and Italian can help you connect with locals and experience their culture.

I hope all these tips will help you in your France and Italy trip and let you enjoy a stressless, smooth journey.

Concluding Words

Among the European countries, France and Italy are two of the centers of attraction for travel lovers. These two countries offer a rich variety of attractions, cultures, and cuisines. Whether you are looking for romance, history, art, or adventure, you will find something to suit your taste in these two nations.

Hope this “How to plan a trip to France and Italy” blog will enable you to take the time to relax and enjoy the scenery. Make your travels an enduring masterpiece by allowing them to be a dance of memories, new friendships, and cherished moments that endure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you do Italy and France in one trip?

Yes of course. But I would suggest not to. As this will end up in a great rush.

Is it cheaper to go to Italy or France?

Yes. If you plan a proper Italy and France itinerary for 12 days or less you can make it cheaply.

Which country is the best between Italy and France?

It varies from person to person. I personally like France more because I love the diversified beauty it offers to its visitors.

Can I go from France to Italy by train?

Yes, you can go to Italy from France by Train. You will get a train from almost every train station from different countries of France to Italy.

How long does it take to fly from France to Italy?

It takes around 2-3 hours to reach Italy from France.

What is the cheapest month to travel to Italy?

During the off-season like summer for France and winter for Italy is comparatively cheaper than other months. You can make a cheap tour if you plan a proper Italy and France itinerary for 12 days.

Can you do Paris and Rome in one trip?

No, Paris and Rome are two individual countries with their nature and culture. You won’t get enough time to enjoy both the countries at the same time. It is better to visit these countries without a rush.

Can you catch a train from Paris to Rome?

Yes, there are options for that. You can visit Eurorail.com for more details.

Is the train ride from Paris to Italy scenic?

Without a doubt, the scenic route from Paris to Rome by train is one of the best experiences you can ever have.

Kayla D. Martinez

Senior Travel Writer

Best Way to Travel from Paris to Nice – Where Every Moment is a Masterpiece!

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France & Italy Tours and Trips 2024/2025

France and Italy are easily two of the most popular destinations in Europe. Known world over for their art, history, culture and cuisine, these two countries draw millions of tourists every year. Thanks to their proximity, these two countries could be easily explored in one go. With France and  Italy tours , experience two of the most culturally and historically rich countries in Europe and fully immerse yourself in their unique cuisines.

33 Trips in France & Italy with 2,441 Reviews

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France & Italy Tour Reviews

• Michael Fiaksel
• Marisa Nooney

France and Italy - Tour Highlights and Travel Tips

Tour Highlights

• Tours of French and Italian wine regions are a treat. In these tours you will get to visit local vineyards, and sample some world-renowned wines.
• High speed scenic train ride between Lyon and Milan could be an experience in itself. The journey takes as little as five hours.
• Tour the turquoise waters of the stunning Côte d'Azur and visit famous cities like Marseille and Saint Tropez.
• Tour Paris and explore famous art museums like the Louvre, The Musée d'Orsay, and the Paris Museum of Modern Art.
• Tour the wonders of ancient Rome and see many of the famous historic sites like the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain.
• After a weekend tour to Amalfi Coast , relax by the seaside with an Aperol spritz.
• See the Renaissance art and architecture from up close in Tuscany while on a trip to Florence . Visit the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, and enjoy a dry Chianti and fresh pasta.

Travel Tips

• Be sure to bring enough Euros when visiting rural areas of France and Italy, as card payment systems and ATMs are not common.
• When booking trains, buses, or flights during the peak season, it is a good idea to book well in advance.
• The laid-back cultures of France and Italy are evident when it comes to cooking and dining. The French and Italians like to take their time and enjoy their meal, so do not fret if your order is late.

A combined Italy and France tour is a great way to spend your holiday. You can experience the best that both countries have to offer, from artisan food to historical sites to cultural diversity.

To help you plan a perfect trip, be sure to check out our Italy travel guide and France travel guide .

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FRANCE & ITALY HIGHLIGHTS

France and Italy are two of the world’s most popular luxury travel destinations. Not only for their centuries-old dedication to art, but also their passion for food, wine, and style. In our “France & Italy Highlights” itinerary, you will experience a three-week adventure to some of the most alluring destinations in these two countries. For France , you will explore Paris, Provence, and the French Riviera. In Italy , you will visit Venice, Florence, and finally, Rome. Additionally, enjoy several day trips to other wonderful destinations along the way!

PARIS – 3 NIGHTS

The first stop on your France & Italy Highlights itinerary will be amazing Paris. Upon arrival at the airport, we will arrange for a private transfer to your accommodations of choice in the city center. Bella Vita’s has a wonderful selection of 4 and 5-star hotel s for you to choose from. These are all based on location, comfort, and travel style. From the hotel, you’re a short walk from many of the amazing sights and landmarks the city is so famous for. During your stay in Paris, we will arrange the following special experiences:

• A private “Paris Essentials” tour with our professional English speaking driver-guide will show you all the main highlights of Paris in just a few hours. This is a great introduction to the city since you will see the Eiffel Tower, the Arch of Triumph, Champs Elysees, Trocadero, the Opera House, Invalides, Vendome Square, Concorde Square, the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay buildings, the Latin Quarter, Notre Dame Cathedral, Montmartre & Sacred Heart Basilica, and the Pantheon.
• A Luxurious Boat for a Dinner Cruise with the incredible cuisine of by a renowned chef. The cuisine is full of delicate gustatory delights and top-rated wines. All of which you will enjoy while taking in the front row view of Notre Dame Cathedral, Conciergerie, Pont Neuf, Lovelock Bridge, Louvre, Grand Palais, Pont Alexander III, Eiffel Tower, Ile St Louis, and more.
• A half-day private Versailles Palace Tour excursion from Paris. Here you will meet one of our excellent historians to see the magnificent château and Jardins of Versailles, the seat of the royal court from 1682 until the Revolution. We’ll conceptualize the architectural and historical significance of this immense site, all the while taking in its awe-inspiring beauty. You will visit the exterior, interior, amazing gardens, and the hunting lodge.
• In our Louvre evening “Crash Course” tour , discover one of the largest museums in the world in the best-possible visiting conditions. With your private guide, you can choose your route based on interest, and he/she will make these works of art come alive!
• Our delectable Paris food tour, led by a local chef or food writer. You will stroll the charming streets of St.-Germain-des-Pres and the Left Bank, explore the culinary culture of Paris. Your private, expert guide will introduce the basics of French cuisine. You will also meet the owners of tiny food shops, taste artisanal products. Enliven your senses to the amazing culinary traditions for which France is known the world over.

PROVENCE – 3 NIGHTS

Up next on your France & Italy Highlights tour, the beautiful Provencal countryside. After checking out of your hotel, your private driver will be waiting to take you to the train station. From Paris, you will travel by first-class high-speed train to Avignon. Before heading to your accommodations, we have a treat in store for you. Here you’ll stay at one of our preferred hotels located in one of the hill-top villages of the Luberon. Note, you will have the choice to stay in the countryside accommodations as well. There is also the opportunity to rent your own car for your time in Provence. Your visit to the Provencal countryside will consist of the following:

• A special visit to Avignon & Chateauneuf-du-Pape winery . Upon arrival in Avignon, you will meet your private driver who will hold your bags while you enjoy a lovely stroll through the sophisticated city of Avignon and the Palace of the Popes. Afterward, discover the famous vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Here you will taste the outstanding red and white wines produced in this area at a private wine tasting.
• Visit the Luberon in a Day by Classic 2CV Cars ! This is a wonderful and fun way to explore the various medieval hilltop villages of the region and gorgeous countryside. Some of the sites you will visit include Lacoste, Bonnieux, Roussillon, and Oppede le Vieux. In Oppede, you will enjoy lunch at one of our favorite lunch spots, Le Petit Café.
• You will also have the choice between two wonderful excursions. You can either enjoy a private walking tour in Aix-en-Provence with time to explore on your own afterward. Or you can visit the lovely villages of Saint Remy (famous for its market) and Les Baux , a fantastic medieval town built into the rock it sits on. In both cases, we can arrange winery visits, museum tickets, and other entrance fees. Don’t forget the amazing Carrières de Lumières (caves of light)!

NICE – 3 NIGHTS

Your last stop in France will be the French Riviera. There is a mix of everything on this lovely stretch of the Mediterranean. You have the colorful bustle of Nice and its characteristic old town. There are endless hill-top villages perched over the sapphire blue sea to meander along their cobblestones for breath-taking views. Of course, you can also enjoy a dip in the spectacular sea.

Your private driver will pick you up early morning and you will make your way toward the sea. En-route, you will have a treat in store with a visit to a local winery for a tasting and lunch. Then, it’s off to your wonderful accommodations along the sea. Here you will have the choice between staying in either Nice or a nearby resort and village. During your 3 days on the French Riviera, you will enjoy the following experiences:

• Your choice of Riviera Highlights tour . Since there is so much to do and see in this corner of France, we have created two separate excursions for you to enjoy. Either one will be in the company of one of our favorite drivers/guides. You can head west to visit one of the oldest medieval towns on the Riviera, Saint-Paul de Vence, and explore the grand old villas and old town of Antibes and the ritzy Cannes. Or you can make your way east to the picturesque perched village of Eze and then the elegant belle-époque Monte Carlo. The day will be tailored to your interests, with our fabulous local guide helping you see the most interesting sites in the area and some undiscovered local surprises as well!
• Our Nice Market Tour and Cooking Class . Starting in the Cours Saleya market, you will meet our wonderful food guide and chef. The narrow maze of centuries-old streets of the Vieux Nice opens up onto this splendid space lined with bars, cafés, and fish restaurants on either side and market stalls down the center. You will select the best meat and fish for your choice of menu. Afterward, make your way to her charming cooking atelier, where everyone will play a role in preparing the meal. A couple of hours later, sit down to an authentic Niçoise meal and toast your efforts with a glass of rosé or the beverage of your choice.

LAKE COMO – 2 NIGHTS

It’s time to bid “Aurevoir” to France and “Buongiorno” to Italy! Your private driver will take you to your next stop on your France & Italy Highlights itinerary, beautiful Lake Como. En-route, you can stop for lunch in the lovely Piemonte regions, well-known for their hearty food and exquisite wines.

Your driver will deliver you to your luxurious accommodations on the lake in the early evening. Here, there are several wonderful lodging choices based on your travel style and taste. You can’t go wrong with any of them! During your stay on Lake Como, we will arrange for the following special experiences:

• A very special  Private Walking and Boating Tour of Lake Como  for you. Your local expert guide will meet you at your hotel with a private boat and captain. You will cruise up the lake viewing charming villages and spectacular villas with wonderful history and commentary along the way. Eventually, you will come to the beautiful Bellagio where you will enjoy a walk through the village and visit the historical part of the town or have an optional tour of the garden of Villa Melzi. Villa Melzi is an English styled garden designed by the architect Luigi Canonica and by the botanist Luigi Villoresi, enriched with sculptural groups and statues from the various periods, and a long tree-lined avenue that leads from the main gate to the Villa. Next to the entrance, you’ll find a small bamboo grove and a Japanese garden with 25 Japanese maples. Villa Melzi’s gardens also include azaleas, rhododendrons, camellias, and rare Mexican pinesan orangery, and a private chapel. Afterward, you will have the option of returning to your hotel, or you can go on to lovely Varenna for lunch and take the local ferry back on your own.

VENICE – 3 NIGHTS

Your France & Italy Highlights tour continues in unique and elegant Venice. Along the way, you will have a wonderful day in Verona and the Valpolicella Wine Region . After an hour’s drive, you will arrive in Verona where you will meet your local guide. The tour begins at the ancient city gates: Porta Nuova and Porta San Zeno. The second stop is Castelvecchio, a medieval castle with its bridge over the Adige River. Then, on to Castel San Pietro where you will have a spectacular panoramic view of the city. Stop by the famous Romeo and Juliet’s Balcony. Then, just a few steps away from this place you will be able to see the city center in lovely Piazza Delle Erbe. The last stop will be Piazza Brà where you will visit the Arena, a Roman amphitheater, which is internationally famous for the large-scale opera performances given there.

Finally, you will head to the Valpolicella wine region and our trustworthy winery. Here you will taste the famous Amarone wine, a personal favorite! You will have the choice of either lunching in town or the countryside.

Upon arrival in Venice, we will arrange for a  private water taxi  to deliver you to your beautiful accommodations on the island. From the hotel, you’re a short walk from all the amazing sights and landmarks Venice has to offer. During your stay in Venice, we will arrange the following special experiences:

• A  Welcome Orientation & Cicheti Aperitivo  with a member of the Bella Vita team. This meeting will help you navigate your days in this unique city as well as enjoy one of its favorite past-times of sampling the local tasting dishes and local (delicious!) wines.
• A wonderful half-day  Venice by Land and Water  tour giving you a chance to discover the highlights of the city. Visits to Saint Mark’s Square, the Rialto bridge, and more. Then, you will have the opportunity to explore the city for an hour by private boat. Here you will enjoy its sleepy back canals as well as the Grand Canal, the city’s main thoroughfare.
• A private tour to the outer islands of  Murano and Burano . Enjoy a half-day on the lagoon away from the bustle of the main island. The internationally famous island of Murano has been the center of glassmaking for over 700 years. And still today, this artistry can still be seen and appreciated. Burano, once a full-time fishermen’s village, is an incredibly picturesque destination with its brightly painted houses. Time permitting, you will also visit the tiny island of Torcello.

FLORENCE – 3 NIGHTS

After checking out of your hotel, your  private water taxi  will be waiting to take you to the train station. From Venice, you will travel by  first-class high-speed train  to your next amazing stop touring Italy, the beautiful medieval city of Florence. Here you’ll stay at one of our preferred hotels or upscale inns for three nights. As always, it will be situated in the city center within a short walk of the city’s most famous sites. Continue the fun on your France & Italy Highlights tour!

Your visit to Florence will consist of the following:

• You’ll start your visit to Florence with our  Leisurely Walking Excursion of the City  with our private local expert guide. Florence’s rich past as the cultural center of the Italian Renaissance can still be seen today. Visits such famous sites as Il Duomo, Piazza dell Signoria, Ponte Vecchio, and more. Plus you will have the choice of a VIP, skip the line visit to either the  Uffizi Gallery or Accademia  (house of Michelangelo’s David).
• A private excursion into the  Tuscan countryside . You will have the choice of visiting the Chianti wine region and the medieval town of San Gimignano. Otherwise, you can head to the rolling hills of the Val D’Orcia with its charming hilltop villages and pecorino cheese. In both cases, we can arrange for winery tours and tastings. Alternatively, you could do a half-day walking tour of beautiful Siena.
• A fabulous  “Gastronomic” Tour  at one of the city’s most famous and bustling markets followed by a hands-on and  cooking lesson  and meal. The Florence market is a place where the stalls are heaped with produce raised in the green belt around the city and brought in before dawn by the producers. The market offers everything from fruits and vegetables, fish, fresh meat, salt-cured meat, cheese, and much more in a true Italian farm-to-table experience. Your guide will take you through the market, explaining local products as you absorb the sights, sounds, and smells of this incredible foodie dream. Afterward, you will head to a wonderful kitchen for your hands-on rustic Tuscan cooking class with a professional chef. You will prepare a full 4-course menu, including appetizer, first and second course, and dessert. The menu will depend on the seasons and the availability of products. You will then “enjoy the fruits of your labor” with a delicious sit-down meal of your creations…Buon appetito!
• Private transfers  upon arrival in Florence and to return you to the train station at departure.

ROME – 3 NIGHTS

Last but certainly not least, on your France & Italy Highlights itinerary will be Rome. It is simply a fascinating city. With its mix of modern, chaotic city life shadowed by endless historic landmarks and artistic masterpieces, you will be amazed and possibly overwhelmed by all it has to offer. That is where Bella Vita does some of its best work. By creating a haven of activities designed to give you a wonderful taste of this amazing city without exhausting you!

You will be greeted at the Rome train station by your  private driver . He/she will then accompany you to your gorgeous accommodations in the historical center. During your 3 days in Rome, you will enjoy the following experiences:

• Our  Private “Before Hours” Morning Vatican Tour . This incredible opportunity offers a more personal Vatican experience, and the ability to avoid noisy crowds. You will visit the Sistine Chapel at a more solitary, reflective hour. With our expert guide, you’ll discover masterpieces of the Renaissance as well as ancient statues from the Vatican collections. The tour will conclude in St Peter’s Basilica to admire Michelangelo’s Pietà. Your private guide will also give you access to the Basilica straight from the museums, avoiding the sometimes endless lines.
• Private Tour through Ancient Rome with VIP access to the Coliseum Underground  (limited availability). Learn about its tragedies and love for entertainment. Also, discover some of its famous citizens, such as Julius Caesar, Emperors Augustus, and Nero. Visit Capitoline Hill, the Roman Forum, finishing off with the spectacular Coliseum.
• Lose yourself within one of Europe’s most extraordinary museums and one of Rome’s greatest patrician collections,  the Borghese Gallery . It is home to glorious works by Bernini, Caravaggio, and other highly-regarded artists in Italian history. We consider it is an astounding showcase of Italian art and antiquity. Your art historian will make the artists and statues come alive in this short but captivating tour.

When it is time to bid goodbye to your France & Italy Highlights tour, we will arrange a  private transfer  to take you to the Rome Airport for your flight home.

If you are not yet ready to go home, we can add several options to your France & Italy Highlights tour. A few days on the Normandy or Amalfi Coasts? Or a visit to the castles of the Loire Valley, or even spending some dedicated wine time in either Burgundy or the Val D’Orcia of Tuscany? The choice is yours and we would be happy to design your trip as you wish.

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2 Weeks Italy France itinerary

Day 1 – Arriving in Rome

Day 2 – Sightseeing in Rome

Day 3 – day trip to pompeii, day 4 – florence, day 5 – day trip to cinque terre from florence, day 6 – day trip to san marino from florence.

Day 7 – Florence- Milan -Lake Como

Day 8 – Lake Como

Day 9 – Nice

Day 10 – Day trip to Eze Village and Monaco from Nice

Day 11 – Train to Paris

Day 12 – Paris

Day 13 – Day trip to Versaille or Mont St. Michel

Day 14 – Paris – fly home

2 Weeks Italy France itinerary starts in Rome – day 1

Pack your bags, it’s time to fly to Rome – the Eternal City! Did you know that Rome was founded in 753 BC? Modern Rome has 280 fountains and a total of 3000 Euros is collected from Trevi Fountain every night. The city never sleeps, so even if you arrive late, urge yourself for a walk! Rome is surprisingly easy to navigate. The first thing I personally like to do is have a nice fresh espresso and Gelato (Italian ice cream). Take your time and relax in one of the numerous outdoor cafes. If you have the strength, consider checking out Trevi Fountain – it’s spectacular at night time!

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Moving on – just a few blocks away you can find another piece of art – Piazza Navona with the famous Bernini’s Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi. This masterpiece just cannot be described in words – you need to see it for yourself.

Our last suggestion for this short one-day tour is to have a quick look at the Vatican City and send home some postcards from their post office. If you have time, you may want to try and visit the Vatican Museum . Just be prepared to get approached by numerous tour guides.

When the sun goes down, the city will change its face and truly wake up. Take your time and walk the tiny streets of the old town, enjoy the outside cafes and bars, and soak up the atmosphere. I guarantee you will remember this evening for a long time!

As you may know from the history lessons, Pompeii was buried under meters of ash after the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. Today, it is a vast archaeological site and a huge open-air museum.

The site is huge and there is little shade, so make sure to cover your head and have a water bottle with you. Organized tours are also an option if you have little time and like this sort of thing.

On your way back, have a quick look around Naples if you have time. It’s not as gorgeous as Rome, but may be interesting, especially if you walk to the seaside.

Florence is by far my favorite city in all of Italy! I fell in love with it the moment I saw Piazza Signoria and spent the evening sitting on the steps of Palazzo Vecchio, soaking up street art, music, and evening lights. This square has fantastic pieces of art on display and you shouldn’t be surprised to see art students by day and night sketching them from every possible angle.

The town is rather small, and you will hardly need more than one full day to see most of it. We went to Palazzo Vecchio to see the famous Hall of 500 and enjoyed the visit very much. However, fantastic museums are just a fraction of what Florence has to offer. The real attractions are its streets, artists, little galleries, shops and of course the food!

Where to stay in Florence? Of course in one of the cute homestay hotels. We stayed at Hotel Bellavista right next to the train station and loved it!

By the way, Florence can also be replaced by Venice in this Itinerary. Read here Florence vs Venice ideas and feel free to decide for yourself.

Today is a special day and one of the most physically challenging ones. Catch the early morning train to Pisa and then change for another one heading to La Spezia. Once you arrive, head to the ticket counter and get yourself the Cinque Terre Pass. This pass allows you to use all local transport modes (train, bus) and is an entrance ticket to hiking trails.

You can now decide how you’d like to visit the villages – there are 5 of them. I recommend taking the train to Monterosso and hiking to Vernazza. Beautiful scenic views of the way are guaranteed! The hike will take you around 3 hours but take your time, and bring lots of water and sunscreen.

Once you reach Vernazza, you can go for a swim or just relax on the beach, have lunch at one of the numerous outdoor cafes or enjoy an ice cream. It’s a very relaxing and peaceful place. On the way back, take a quick walk in La Spezia – this town is often forgotten but it is also very nice and easily accessible. You will see many locals, unlike Cinque Terre which is mostly crowded by tourists.

If you enjoyed your Vatican City visit, you might want to see another tiny country – San Marino . The good news is it’s located on your route and you can make a return trip from Florence. Just prepare yourself for a long day, as the trip will take around 3 hours one way.

Once you arrive, take a walk through the narrow streets, enjoy the tasty ice cream, explore defensive towers, and buy some souvenirs. San Marino is tax free country and many brands have outlets here with great prices.

Day 7 – Florence-Milan-Lake Como

Pack your bags, today you are going to travel again. Visiting Lake Como is one of the highlights of this trip! However, before we can fully enjoy this beautiful lake, let’s stop for a few hours in Milan and have a quick look around the city. You can store your luggage at the train station.

Once you step outside Milano Centrale, this bustling city will be greeting you in all its glory. The traffic is crazy here and everyone seems to be in a hurry. It’s a business city, not like Florence or even Rome. Milan is the fashion capital! The best place to stay is near the train station, so you would have easier access to the metro and trains. We enjoyed our stay at 43 Station Hotel – a very modern and comfortable place.

Take the metro to the Milan Cathedral and enjoy this beautiful masterpiece. For adventure-minded – climb the stairs to the top for an even better view! Right next to the Cathedral, you will see an impressive shopping mall called Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Window shopping is a must!

Finally, make your way to the Castello Sforzesco. Today, the castle houses museums and exhibitions. There is one more good reason to visit Milan – a famous painting called “The Last Supper” by Leonardo Da Vinci. To see it, however, you would need to make a reservation well in advance.

Lake Como is famous for its scenic landscapes, villages, and beautiful mountains. The best way to explore it is from the water, by taking a local ferry boat. Wake up early to catch the first one leaving for Bellagio and enjoy your day in this tiny piece of paradise.

For breathtaking views of the lake and Como village, take the scenic funicular railway or hike it up yourself.

Como has lots of great accommodation options for any budget. Alternatively, if you have a bit more time, consider visiting Lake Garda and its beautiful castles !

Day 9 – Como (IT) – Nice(FR)

Start the day a bit earlier, as today a long railway journey is awaiting you! The trip from Como to Nice (France) will take approximately 6 hours. First, you would need to travel back to Milan, then catch the speed train to Nice. There is no doubt the views are gorgeous, and the time will fly by!

Day 10 – Eze Village and Monaco

Two of the best day trips that you can make from Nice are Eze Village and Monaco . You can easily do them both on the same day. Start the day with a bus ride to Eze Village. This hilltop town is charming and best enjoyed early in the morning before the crowds arrive.

Narrow cobble-stoned streets are decorated with mosaics. Lose yourself in this labyrinth, forget about time – you are in the middle ages again! It looks like time stood still here. Fancy for a quick hike? Nitsche’s path will lead you all the way down to the seaside – Eze-sur-Mer, where you can catch the train to your next destination – Monaco!

Monaco is also quite small and one of the best attractions here is people watching. Make your way to the center of the city, and have a look at multimillion-dollar yachts, expensive supercars, and businessmen in suits. A good place to have a quick snack without breaking your budget is Starbucks (35 Boulevard Louis Ii Ni Box, 98000 Monaco). The place has great views and affordable coffee!

Quick Tip – On your way back to Nice, take the train rather than the bus. Even though the bus is cheaper, the road is a bit bumpy and has lots of curves, ups and downs. You might easily get motion sick.

Day 11 – Nice-Paris

Here is your chance to see lots of wineries and even some castles! Nice-Paris railway journey is pleasant and easy. You can buy snacks and coffee onboard. Sit back and relax, and enjoy the views and passing landscapes.

Paris, the city of Love! Finally, you made it to the final point of your amazing 2 Weeks Italy France itinerary! Tonight, you will get to see one of the most iconic symbols of not just Paris, but all of France. Constructed as the entrance to the 1889 World’s Fair, the Eiffel Tower today is a true tourist magnet – and for a good reason!

You will understand why it’s great when the sun sets, and the lights start to illuminate the tower with a million single lights! It’s a very powerful emotion and hard to describe – you need to see it for yourself! Visiting the Eiffel Tower is 100% a must!

We suggest dedicating all day to discovering magnificent Paris . Start your day with fresh coffee and croissants, take a walk along the Seine, and admire the iconic Notre Dame de Paris. If you have enough time, have a look inside the Louvre.

Day 13 – Day trip to Versailles or Mont St. Michel

As a possible day trip from Paris, we recommend two options – a trip to Versailles or a trip to Mont St. Michel. Both trips are a unique and fantastic experience!

The Palace of Versailles is a museum and a very popular tourist attraction. Versailles was the seat of political power in the Kingdom of France from 1682 The palace and the park are huge, so plan all day for your visit.

Mont St. Michel used to be one of Christianity’s most important pilgrimage sites from the 8th to the 18th century. Today, this remarkable island is a designated World Heritage site by UNESCO. Prepare yourself for a long bus ride – it takes 3,5 hours one way! Make sure to climb all the way up for the best views!

It’s time to say goodbye to Paris and our amazing 2 Weeks Italy France itinerary. It was a crazy ride, but you managed to see so much in so little time. The advantage is this kind of itinerary is the scope of things you can do. If you only have these 2 weeks, this is by far the best option to see two fantastic countries in one go.

When is the best time for such itinerary?

I would try to avoid the summer months. Summer in Southern Europe is hot as hell. I have been to Italy and France in early May and late September – both periods are fantastic in terms of weather and the number of tourists. Moreover, the prices started do drop at hotels, restaurants, and even some tourist attractions like museums.

Whenever you decide to go, don’t let anything stop you. Just Go! You will not regret it, especially if you have never been to Italy or France before. These countries will not disappoint!

What do you think is the best 2 Weeks Italy France itinerary?

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9 Responses

I appreciate the flow of the itinerary but it could have been more useful or helpful if you included some time of departure, where to depart and the arrival, cost of the tickets and where to stay, etc. I’m going for a solo trip this July and i’m searching for detailed itinerary as I find it difficult to do it on my own.😂 But all in all, nice and compact blog. Thank you! 😊👍🏻

Thank you for your comment! I will look into these points and update the itinerary

How much the cost? Thanks

Hello! Depending on your hotel preference, meal budget, at least 2000€ for two (50€/night for hotels, 50€/day for the meals + ~500€ for train tickets)

Love love Italy but I still haven’t been to France. Would love to explore the beautiful France.. I need to check out the second half of your itinerary 🙂

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[…] you may also like to check out Maria’s Eastern Europe road trip itinerary from Prague or her France and Italy itinerary over on Tigrest Travel blog. You can also follow her adventures on Instagram and […]

Hi! Thank you so much for putting this itinerary together. I’m from Asia and though not first-time traveller to Europe, still a nervous noob when it comes to planning. There are some places I must go: La Spezia/Cinque Terre, Venice, Versailles, and Moint St Michel. I could fly to Paris and return flight from Rome/Milan. Do you think this is a viable route for a 14-16 days travel? Many thanks!!

Where is Italy

Great post! I love Venice and hope to return later in the year. Will definitely follow your advice and hure a local guide – being pretty good with churches and which art hangs where, I would love to see where Venice is really off the beaten path. Also seeking out film locations can be fun. I want to do a “Don’t Look Now” walk next time, and “Wings of the Dove ” and “Death in Venice” feature locations that are off the main routes.

Simon Devaraj

Thank you so much for sharing this itinerary. My wife and I will now plan our trip with some guidance for this. Rome to Paris – 30April to 14 May 2023. Will be happy to have more insights and pointers 🙏🏻

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Brilliant trip!.Because Intrepid do small groups we were able to get into the best locally run restaurants and really get to experience life like a local. We traveled by train and got to sit and chat with the locals (even picked up some top tips on where to go out) The tour leader was amazing, his knowledge of the 3 counties visited blew me away. He even booked us tickets to see Santana feat. Dave Matthews on the piano in a 2000yr old amphitheater in Nimes, something I would never had known about on my own. The tour was such a great mix of activities and free time. highly recommend.

European Splendour (End London, 12 Days)

• Christmas & New Year

European Cavalcade (End Paris, 18 Days)

It was FANTASTIC!! I would recommend this tour to anyone. We were so happy to have Steve as our tour guide.

From Italy to France with London

A unique experience with many pleasant memories and stories to tell. Our tour guide Orlina was amazing.

• Train & Rail

Western Europe Group Rail Tour (18-35)

1st time traveling? Worried about how to get about? Or just want a stress free break? Euroventure are your people! They take all those worries away and help you enjoy your trip! Amazing! Can't thank them enough for my wonderful trip and now I have the travel bug too!

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Sardinia & Corsica Sailing Adventure

Seriously amazing trip of a lifetime. We did this to celebrate my husband’s big birthday and we could not have asked for anything better. It is the top trip we have ever taken.

Tour du Mont Blanc TMB Circuit

An amazing experience, would thoroughly recommend. Having done several other No Roads trips, this one was a luxury in many repects, no tents & the pleasure of a hot shower & glass of wine at the end of each day ! Don't hesitate , as this was the first No Roads TMB trip, I can assure you the next one, will be even better!

Mont Blanc Explorer

We hiked the Chamonix to Chamonix in September 2018. The hike was strenuous and challenging at times. Our guide Tom was great at judging our progress and rest requirements. He was very knowledgeable and Safety was always his first priority. The mountain accommodation was bunks in dorms but all refuges were comfortable and the food was good. The two hotels were comfortable probably 3 star. This was our first g adventure trip and we would use the company again.

Mediterranean Highlights (13 Days)

Well organized. Great tour guide. Perhaps too many stops and places included. Optional tours sometimes not with money.

European Highlights

Quite a lot over short period of time but well done. The lesser known places are really spectacular as well. Good mix. Bus WiFi and lack of ability to charge phones on bus were only real down area.

Reviews of France and Italy Tours in Summer

TourRadar did a fine job of making the purchase of my Tour du Mont Blanc easy and accurate.

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Helene in Between

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8 Day Northern Italy and French Riviera Itinerary

By Helene Sula

16 cities, 3 countries, all in 8 days. I traveled through Northern Italy down to the coast of Monaco and France this past week. It may sound like a lot (okay, it was) but itwas one of my favorite trips I've taken so far. It's easy to see so many different landscapes: from the crystal blue waters of the Cote D'Azur, to the hills of Provence, there is plenty to see and do, or you can just relax on the beach. Having 8 days you can really see much of Northern Italy and the French Riviera (and even though Lyon in there too!).

This itinerary will walk you through all the cities we went to and how to make the most out of the trek. Itineraries are not like my regular guides (such as this one for Innsbruck, Austria ). In my guides, I walk you through everything to see, do, eat, stay, and more. Itineraries hope to give you an idea of how to make your next trip to these locations. I will be doing full guides on each place, but, we saw SO much so I wanted to give you a brief overview. Emphasis on BRIEF. Or, at least I tried. So, let's get to it.

If you want to just focus on the South of France and Monaco, or are short on time, fly into Nice . This will get you directly to the coast. If you want to follow my exact path, then you'd start with Lake Como. We rented a car and had a very scenic drive from Heidelberg, Germany to Como.

Day 1: Lake Como

The city of Como is lovely and honestly, really well priced. You will see the stunning “hazy lazy” lake and can eat your fill of pasta and wine right by the water's edge.

Day 2: Bellagio and Varenna

A short drive or ferry ride from Como will take you to Bellagio. It's a fancy resort town but be aware much is closed in the off season (meaning, Winter). We took a ferry ride to the beautiful Varenna. Tiny cobblestone streets and ancient walkways leading up to a breathtaking view. That night we drove to Milan.

Day 3: Milan

We arrived in Milan on a Sunday. Knowing that almost everything is closed on Monday, we went to museums and shops the first day. The shopping is really for fashionistas and you'll see lots of high priced clothes and it's just fun people watching.

Day 4: Milan

The next day we walked up the cities jewel: the Duomo. A bright white basilica in the town square. Here, you'll get the best view of the city, and it's great for sunset shots. After, we went for pizza and strolled the shops.

Day 5: Monaco, Èze, Menton, and Nice

If you're into the glitz and glam, then you might want to stay in Monaco for a full day. It's a bit pricey, but it's incredible to be in a different country that's only 1 square mile long. We went from Milan to Monaco and then back to France easily in one day. Don't forget to check out the famous Monte Carlo casino. But I thought the old town with the castle and cathedral was so cool, and more my style. From there, we had a glass of wine in the medieval town of Èze and enjoyed  the view. That night, we drove to Nice for dinner and watched the Carnaval parade. If this sounds like a lot, it's not! All of these cities are within about 20-30 minutes of each other. We stayed in Menton that night and they were having a lemon festival!

Day 6: Villefranche, Mougins, and Nice

Villefranche was one my favorite cities. This is where there was the Villa Rothschild, a Versailles like home all in pink. I might have taken 800 photos of it. We also went back to Nice to explore the old town, eat socca (a traditional pancake like dish sprinkled with pepper), and see the incredible Russian orthodox church. We stayed in the picturesque hills of Provence with Glamping Hub in Mougins . Here, there are many bed and breakfast nooks, spas, and pretty views.

Day 7:  Valbonne, Gourdon, Cannes, Antibes

From Mougins we headed up to Gourdon- an ancient city perched on top of a hill. We then made a loop to drive to Valbonne. On the way, we stopped to see waterfalls on the side of the cliff, and stopped at a famous candy store – Confiserie Florian. We might have eaten enough candy for 8 toddlers. Then we had lunch in pretty, sun-drenched Valbonne.

From there, we drove to Cannes and walked around: saw the film festival site and the old town. This is a sandy beach, opposed to the Nice pebble beach. Then we made one last stop for dinner in Antibes. This city is known for it's bouillabaisse (a dish with at least 4 different kinds of fish) and nightlife. Then headed back to our gypsy caravan in Mougins .

Day 8: Lyon

I love Lyon. We chose this location since it was an easy trek back up to Heidelberg and we were not disappointed! Delicious food, stunning architecture, and lots to see and do. Some favorites were the Saint Jean Cathedral and the mind blowing Notre Dame basilica on top of the hill. Make the trek up (or take the tram!) for an incredible view. We also checked out the World War II History and Deportation museum – it has an audio guide in English.

Main Cities on the Cote D'Azur:

Nice – The biggest city on the Cote d’Azur, pebble beaches, an historic old town, a wide range of restaurants and beautiful scenery. Antibes – Lots of walking aroiund the old town, places for gelato, nightlife, and more well-priced. Cannes – Glitzy yet pretty, can be relatively quiet outside of festival season and big events. Similar atmosphere to St Tropez but with more things to do. St Tropez – Very, very glam. I didn't venture here, but this is definitely a resort, high end town. Monte Carlo, Monaco – A great mix of a country, yachts, famous casino, and  over-the-top wealth on display.

I really suggest renting a car once you get here. That way you can truly see it all! There are trains, but many trains don't go to the smaller, mountainous towns.

Cost of the drive:

We drove quite a lot, so that meant we spent quite a lot on tolls in France, a sticker to drive in Switzerland (to get from Germany to Italy), some parking, and, of course, gas. This is a look at approximately how much we spent.

France Tolls: €90 – France has CRAZY expensive tolls. If you take any “blue” roads versues the “green” ones, it will cost you. The green routes will generally take you an additional hour longer. This is crazy expensive to me, and really, there is no rhyme or reason why there is a toll.

Switzerland Pass: €40 – this is a sticker good for a year to drive in Switzerland. Why these countries force you to pay to drive on their roads is odd to me.

Parking: €50- We parked a few times at hourly parking spots in Monaco, Cannes, Antibes, and Milan. All of the other cities had free parking. All in all, we spent about €50 on temporary parking.

Total cost on driving: €330

When to go:

If you want NO crowds, sunshine, and don't mind it being a little chilly, go in the winter. Summer is the height of tourist season so you will pay more, but obviously it's when more events take place, it will be more lively, and you can actually swim.

As you can see, we didn't spend a lot of time lounging on the beach. There was just so much to see and we wanted to do it all! If you are looking to hang at the beach, I suggest Monaco, Nice, and Cannes. But really, all these cities are just so cool, you could explore for weeks!

You might also like: How to Plan a Trip to Europe.

See more snaps on Instagram and follow my travels: @ heleneinbetween

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MEET THE AUTHOR

Helene Sula

I believe that one trip can change your life. It did for me. I'm a self proclaimed home body that quit her job, moved abroad, and more often than not, lives out of a carry-on bag. If I'm not traveling, I'm most likely re-reading Harry Potter or watching "Midnight in Paris" while snuggling my dogs. I'm a digital marketing expert who turned my love of travel into a full-time career. And I help others do it too.

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Essential sights to discover in France, Spain and Italy

Aug 3, 2012 • 1 min read

If you're short on time but big on an appetite for travel, you want to get straight to the highlights of a country and know exactly how to get to them. So, who wants to go to France ? Italy ? Spain ? We've got the unmissable gems in each of these destinations, ready for you to browse, right here.

Top 18 experiences in France : the big ticket sights, island day-trips and a tour of the sultry South.

Perfect trips in Spain: take a merry voyage through one of these big-ticket regions of Spain.

• A perfect trip to Catalonia
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Must-see Italy : wineries, basilicas, dive-tempting lakes - Italy's art, history, architecture, landscape and food all deliver knock-out blows to the wandering gourmet or adventure traveller. Discover why.

This article was first published in June 2010 and was refreshed in August 2012.

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Road Trip Itinerary: 11 Days In France & Italy

Until recently we hadn’t done a huge amount of road trips as a family. Now we’ve started, it appears we can’t stop. In one year alone we took three of them covering over 5,000 miles in total. In this post I am taking you back to March and April 2016 when we embarked on a 2,000 mile road trip from the UK to France and Italy. My daughter was three at the time and I was 31 weeks pregnant. The journey took us to a quaint French city, through the Alps and onto northern Italy, passing through Switzerland on the way back and very nearly going over the German border.

We stopped at seven different towns and cities as well as a fair few service stations along the way. Despite reservations about how our daughter would cope, once again, she surprised us beyond measure and happily gazed out of the window, played eye spy and watched endless episodes of Paw Patrol on the iPad. We considered it a huge success and it gave us the confidence to do more with two children in tow. Here is what we did during our eleven day excursion.

Day 1: London – Troyes We set off around 9am from our home in southwest London to get an 11am train from Folkstone through the Eurotunnel. We got there with time to spare. Inside the shopping centre there was an Easter display and craft activities for children which came in handy as our train was delayed.

When we finally got on, we whipped open our homemade sandwiches, stretched our legs and Mrs T pretended to drive the car.

In around 40 minutes we had crossed the channel and were in France! So far so easy. We kept to the toll roads which, compared to UK motorways, are fairly empty. No major traffic jams here which is a refreshing change. You do pay for the privilege. We spent around £100 in tolls during our road trip (Italy has toll roads too).

As we took to the motorway, we noticed a series of messages written on the electronic signs. It was shortly after the horrific terror attack on Belgium airport and France was showing its support with the words ‘Nous sommes tous de Bruxelles’ (We are all Brussels) which was both heartening and thought-provoking.

Keeping to our rule of only driving 300 miles in a day, our first stop was in the medieval city of Troyes just outside Champagne, famous for its half-timbered housing.

Getting there around 3pm, we had time to wander around the striking small city, admire its architecture, do some shopping, go on the carousel and have dinner, trying the regional delicacy – pigs intestines. You can read more about our trip to Troyes here .

Accommodation We stayed at Le Mecure hotel which had a decent sized room. It was around a seven minute walk from the centre of town and had secure underground parking. It cost around €120.

Day 2-5 Morzine, French Alps After grabbing a traditional French breakfast (coffee and crossiant) at a cafe in central Troyes we hit the road for 10am.

Our destination was Morzine in the French Alps where we were spending time with family. During our time there, Mrs T continued her ski training with her dad and grandad and we celebrated Easter with friends and family.

Accommodation : Private self-catered chalet in Morzine.

Day 5 – 7 Morzine to Modena, Italy We set off through the winding Alpine hills in the morning and headed to the Mount Blanc tunnel. Although a convenient way to get into Italy, it does come at a price. W paid €44.20 one way. After just 15km underground, we arrived in Italy.

Accommodation We stayed at a charming bed & breakfast called Quartopiano . It’s a two-bed apartment which can be let separately. We booked the whole apartment so Mrs T had her own bedroom. The place was full of quirky trinkets and has a steep staircase up to the kitchen. I wouldn’t recommend for very young children in case something got broken and if you were worried about the stairs.

Day 7 – 9: Maranello & Bologna Our next destination was Bologna. En route we stopped off Maranello, the home of Ferrari, spending a couple of hours at its Ferrari museum. Filled with sports cars and road cars from every decade, the museum is well worth a look, especially if you are big on cars. You can read about our experience here .

In just one hour, we reached the city of Bologna where we just about managed to navigate our car to the hotel and a car park. It isn’t the most car-friendly city with one-way streets and no through roads.

During our two days in the city, we marvelled at Bologna’s leaning towers, visited the biggest brick church in the world and enjoyed some of its delicious food including its famous tagliatelle ragu (the inspiration behind spaghetti bolognaise). You can read about our 48 hours in the city here and my post about the  top dishes you must try when in Emilia-Romagna.

Accommodation We stayed two nights at Hotel Metropolitan , just five minutes from the main square. We had a good sized room and lights which had a multitude of colours which we didn’t quite work out but Mrs T loved seeing them change colour. She had her own bed in the entrance hall and we had an outside area too. We paid around €170 per night (breakfast included).

Accommodation Slightly out of town, we stayed at NH Hotel , around 10/15 minute walk to the centre of Parma. Booking a junior suite, we had a very large room (plenty of room for two children) with two TVs, a large bathroom and coffee machine. Mrs T had the huge sofa bed to sleep on. We paid around €170 for the night including breakfast where we we stocked up on sandwiches to eat on the road for lunch.

Day 10: Alsace

Our destination was the town of Kaysersberg a picture-perfect town far more German than French.

Full of the half-timbered housing with colourful fronts which dominate the region. It’s a charming place. We didn’t do much other than wander around the colourful streets, take photos and look in the shops. I bought some gingerbread memorabilia in a shop filled to the brill while my daughter stood transfixed by a film about the making of the biscuits. My husband got distracted by the wine shops, buying a few bottles of the region’s famous reisling.

Accommodation

If only this hotel had been midway through our trip! Le Chambard was luxurious and relaxing. I could have easily spent another night there. The Relais & Chateaux hotel had a small spa area and swimming pool as well as a double-Michelin starred restaurant.

As we had our daugther, we reluctantly gave the gastronomic menu a miss and went to the brassiere instead. The food was still good. I left the hotel feeling very refreshed. We paid around €215 for the night including a rather gourmet breakfast.

Day 11: Alsace – London

Our longest stint driving took us from Kayserberg back to the UK. At 500 miles it was a lot more than we have done in a day but we took lots of stops and we knew we would soon be back home in our own beds!

It was a diverse roadtrip: from medieval cities and towns to snow-capped mountains, Italian architecture, cars and gelato. A great combination with the added bonus of some warm spring sunshine. A good time to visit Italy without the searing heat (and crowds) of the summer.

We were very impressed at how our daughter handled it – and me – being 31/32 weeks pregnant. I did get uncomfortable at times in the car but we have adjustable seats and stopped when we needed to stretch our legs. We did a lot of walking, particularly in Bologna, which was a little exhausting. Another night in a spa hotel would have sorted that nicely! One of my fears was my daughter’s bladder but throughout the whole trip, we only had to make one roadside stop. Not bad going. Check out my other posts which cover tips on  road trips with children and travelling when pregnant .

Have you done many road trips before? Where did you go and have you braved it with children?

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I've always loved to travel so when my two daughters came along, I didn't stop. Travelling as a family can have its ups and downs but I love showing my children the world and helping others navigate travelling with children in tow.

City Tripping #65

Family outing to the science museum, london.

What a great trip! I used to do road trips all the time in the States but haven’t since we moved to the UK. I would love to do a road trip in France or Germany and thinking about it for this summer when I’d also be about 30+ weeks. Pinning your post for inspiration.

Congratulations Cindy! It’s great how close the countries are in Europe which makes road trips so diverse. France/Germany sounds like a great idea.

Oh fab! Very exciting. Happy planning. It was certainly a jam-packed trip but it hasn’t put us off.

Thanks Tanja, you should give it a go…so many countries in Europe are so close to do and it’s refreshing to experience lots of different cultures in one go!

I’d really love to do a California road trip. We did pack a lot it! Didn’t feel too rushed although an extra day in Alsace would have been good.

Great Blog! Thank you for your sharing!

Thank you for reading.

Oh awesome! Sounds like a great adventure.

Got to be done!

Yes, I agree great to choose where you want to go and when. Oooh another road trip in order Wilbur?

This is brilliant thanks so much for sharing it as an itinerary so we can see what’s possible with kids in terms of the car drives and maybe replicate!

You’re welcome. So glad it can be of assistance.

This sounds like a great road trip – I’m impressed at how much ground you covered. #citytripping

I know! We really did!

Wow! I am so impressed with both you and your daughter. Coming from rural America I took loads of road trips as a kid but my kids aren’t used to it so they aren’t much good for longer than 2 hours (to be honest neither is my husband!) Totally inspired to get them in for a longer car journey this summer!

Oh great! Glad to be of inspiration. You’ll probably be surprised how well they cope.

Looks like you had a great road trip. 🙂 #CityTripping BTW, your daughter is such a cutie pie.

Oh thank you! Very kind x

It was good, quite tiring at times but we saw so much. We stayed in some great places.

Thanks Keri! Hope it’s useful to others

Hehe! I can imagine. The food is so delicious! Yup, it was quite ambitious but I survived! X

Thank you Fiona. The last leg was a bit of a mission but I think because we had the Eurotunnel and UK it breaks it up. Well done for doing the 750 mile trip in one go!!

That sounds like a great trip. I really want to visit Croatia, good idea to combine with Italy. They are so close.

I really want to do a road trip through Italy, and now you have made me want to visit France too.

Glad I’ve provided some inspiration!

They do get better as they get older, don’t they and iPads are an amazing invention

Pleasure! She had a great time xx

We did a lot! The Modena place was quite unusual but felt really homely. I’d like to explore more of Alsace at some point.

Hehe, we’ve done Flexiplus before ! It does come in handy and a bonus with the packed lunch !

Oh I just love this post, this is something I would so love to do, we had a little trial on our Burgundy trip last year and loved it, I also got my first trip to Germany which I totally fell in love with so would just love stopping at all these lovely villages x

Oh, thank you. I rather fancy a German road trip too!

Oh how lovely!! Sounds wonderful. Travelling by road (or train) does add a memorable dimension.

Thank you, it was great.

Oh, great. Alsace is an interesting place.

Hope you tackle one at some point Jo.

This looks amazing. We have similar plans for our May Holiday although we’ve rented an RV and are sticking to France (coming from the Netherlands.) I’m loving all the fun stuff you found to do and am looking forward to trying out a few of the stops ourselves. #CityTripping

How exciting! Enjoy the planning. Sounds like a great trip!

I keep wondering why roadtripping isn’t more of a thing in Europe. It’s definitely on my list, but I was wondering how my daughter would cope. Love your itinery – really interesting variety.

Thank you! It was good to have a diverse range of places and experiences

You should Vlad! Alsace is a really interesting place

Thank you Ahila, it was a great trip.

I love doing road trips! Not that I have many places to take road trips to besides Malaysia.. and Malaysia.. and Malaysia again. Hahaha… If only France and Germany were a drive away. #CityTripping

Hehe…You could make it to Thailand one day?

Wow, that looks like an awesome trip! We’d love to visit the Alps next time we’re in that part of Europe. How long has your daughter been on skis? Our kids are 2 and 5 but we haven’t taken them yet.

Thank you! We first tried our daughter out when she was three and a half so has been a few times…not done intensively as quite tiring for her but she’s loving it.

I really love being able to experience several different cultures and languages within just a few hundred miles.

This is awesome! What a cool roadtrip! Way to not let pregnancy stop you from doing the things you love. 😀 And you can tell your kiddo they had already been to all of these places before they were even born!

Thanks Danielle! Oh yes, she was well travelled in the womb!

The roads in France are a dream compared to the UK. We much prefer driving over there. Italy too. Because they are toll roads, I think it puts some people off using them.

A family after my own heart – we love a good long road trip with lots of planned and unplanned stops! We wished we had done Maranello in Italy for the automobile enthusiasts, but next time! Thanks for shariing with #FarawayFiles, Erin

That is a really long road trip, my kids wouldn’t stand for it although they are far better than they used to be when they were little. We’ve managed about halfway across France with them. That B&B in Modena looks utterly charming! #AllAboutFrance

Oh well done, that’s still good good going. The B&B was really quite unique!

Wow, a hammock! Haha, I never heard of one of them before. Car safety certainly has moved quickly. Glad you like the itinerary Phoebe. Great to know someone on the same wavelength!

Hope you get to go. They are a lot of fun!

Dear Elizabeth Thank you for the nice and perfect description of your trip, I love reading it . I had similar route few years ago when my 3 boys were young , I have driven to France and then Italy , we stayed at Lago di Garda camping for 2 weeks , meanwhile we visited Modena , Bologna and Venice . My wife and I driving again in 2 weeks time , I would like to ask you few technical questions, appreciate your comments : Have you used the Sat Nav , have you trusted it? did you follow it or you have prepared already your own route . Do you prefer to cross Switzerland or to avoid it , as I understand driving there have different regulations now, you need a vignette ?

Many thanks Amin

Hi Amin, thanks so much for reading my post. It sounds like you had an amazing trip three years ago. Have a great time on your next one. Yes, I do usually rely on Sat Nat and will sometimes compare the routes with several different route-finding apps. You do need a vignette in Switzerland so if you don’t want to pay for one then avoid travelling through there. I hope that helps! Elizabeth

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SMALL-TOWN GIRLS, MIDNIGHT TRAINS

— travel inspiration for small budgets and big dreams —

travel inspiration for small budgets and big dreams

10 days in Europe: A sample itinerary for France and Italy

Over 3 years ago, my sister and I found ourselves in Europe for the very first time. This was our itinerary.

Looking back on it now, I don’t think I would change anything! We did spend too little time in Nice — just enough to catch the breathtaking view (no, really: it made me literally hold my breath for a few seconds) from the Promenade des Anglais and take a quick walk through the Cours Saleya flower and fruit market. In fact, I would stay longer in all of these places given half a chance.

My favorite moments from our trip:

• My first sight of the Eiffel Tower and walking along the River Seine in Paris
• Seeing the Colosseum in Rome
• Just walking around Venice (or seeing it from the sea, in the comfort of a vaporetto seat, when our feet started to complain)
• Taking the ferry from Marseille to the Frioul islands
• Meeting different people with different lives — Sophie , the wine buyer; Gentiane , the French doctor; the old man on the train who couldn’t speak English but managed to convey acceptance and friendship

A friend asked me for details of my two previous trips to Europe, so I’ll be writing about that for a while. Please feel free to chime in with reviews, tips, or anything else you can think of that would be good for a traveler to know. I hope all of you reading this are having a good day! 🙂

* 10 days in Europe: A sample itinerary for France and Italy Created by LSS for travel site Small-Town Girls, Midnight Trains . All rights reserved. 

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8 responses.

Woah that sounds really cool! But would it not have been easier Rome – Nice without going all the back to Paris though? But it definitely makes me want to go as well on the same route! I would LOVE to see Italy!!!

You should! I want to go back too. 🙂 We did consider going the Rome – Milan – Ventimiglia – Nice route, but it would have taken nearly all day, so we eventually chose to go on the Rome-Paris and Paris-Nice sleeper trains to save time (and money on hotels).

Cool graph! I wouldn’t repeat your feats though – too many time on trains and too little time per destination for my taste.

Definitely too little time! We only had 10 days, though, and with airfare usually around 900 euros (for context, nearly 150x the monthly minimum wage in Cebu) we didn’t know when we’d be able to go back, so we thought we’d see a little bit of everything.

Good plan! It will help for my Europe planning hopefully this year 🙂

Yay! Happy travels! 🙂

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France and Italy by Train

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11 Day The Best of Italy & France

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Italy, France—two of the most fascinating countries in the world—are waiting for you on this Best of Italy & France tour. You'll spend two nights each in Rome, Venice Island, The French Riviera, and Paris, as well as a night in Florence and Genova. You’ll enjoy the must-see attractions in each city on your guided sightseeing tours, including Rome’s Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, and the Colosseum, built in the 1st century AD and famous for its gladiator fights; St. Mark's Square and Basilica in Venice; the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence, home to Michelangelo's celebrated David; and a Seine cruise in Paris. You'll stop in Ferrara, where you'll walk through the medieval Este Castle to the marble cathedral, built in the 1100s, and in St. Paul de Vence, a picturesque hilltop town where you can explore the art galleries and quaint streets.

On this Globus Italy and France tour, you will also have special experiences that bring you inside the destinations. We've included special dinners in Rome and Paris, so you can try out local specialties, and we've included a stop in Èze, where you will visit a local perfume factory to learn about perfume making. A true highlight is the excursion to Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including a boat ride (weather permitting) and a train ride. Also enjoy exciting train rides on the high-speed TGV train and the Eurostar train.

From the vibrant cities to the peaceful, blue Mediterranean Sea, this vacation to Italy and France is sure to delight all of your senses!

Highlights:

• Venice Island
• Cinque Terre
• French Riviera

Day 1: Arrive in Rome, Italy Welcome to Rome! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and traveling companions and leave the hotel for a welcome dinner with pasta and wine at Mino restaurant. Meal: Dinner

Day 2: Rome Guided sightseeing of the Eternal City starts with a visit to the VATICAN MUSEUMS and SISTINE CHAPEL with Michelangelo’s ceiling paintings and The Last Judgment, followed by a visit to monumental ST. PETER’S SQUARE and BASILICA to admire Michelangelo’s Pietà. Then, enjoy views of other major sites as you drive to the Roman Forum to visit the amazing COLOSSEUM, where gladiators once fought. An optional walking tour with a Local Guide is available to further explore famous sites for those who wish to see it all. Meal: Breakfast

Day 3: Rome–Ferrara–Venice Island In Ferrara, walk through the impressive Este Castle to the marble cathedral and browse through the attractive little shops. Continue to the Adriatic coast and arrive in Venice, a powerful magnet for romantics and art lovers from all over the globe. Tonight is your chance to join an optional evening featuring a private water-taxi ride along the Grand Canal, followed by a traditional dinner at one of Venice’s fine restaurants. Meal: Breakfast

Day 4: Venice Island Start sightseeing in style by PRIVATE BOAT and meet your Local Guide. Highlights of your walking tour are ST. MARK’S SQUARE and the byzantine BASILICA, lavish DOGES’ PALACE and the BRIDGE OF SIGHS. Also watch a skilled GLASSBLOWER fashion delicate objects in an age-old traditional manner. Later, you may wish to join an optional cruise to colorful Burano Island. Meal: Breakfast

Day 5: Venice Island–Florence Drive across the wooded Apennine Mountains into Tuscany and arrive in Florence, “Cradle of the Renaissance.” Meet your Local Guide, and visit the ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS with Michelangelo’s celebrated David. Continue your walking tour through the historic center and stand in awe in front of the magnificent cathedral, admire Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistry’s heavy bronze “Gates of Paradise,” and sculpture-studded SIGNORIA SQUARE. Afterwards, you may wish to shop for Florentine leather goods and gold jewelry, sold by the ounce. Meals: Breakfast

Day 6: Florence–Cinque Terre–Genoa Drive through the valley of the Arno River to La Spezia on the Mediterranean Coast, for an exciting excursion to CINQUE TERRE, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including a BOAT RIDE (weather permitting) with a Local Guide. The name dates back to the 15th century and is derived from five little medieval villages standing on stony spurs along five miles of the rocky coastline: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso. From here, head for Genoa, birthplace of Christopher Columbus. Meal: Breakfast

Day 7: Genoa–Èze–France–French Riviera Your Local Guide will introduce you to this amazing city, that played an important role in maritime trade for many centuries. Follow the coast towards France, then leave the highway for the panoramic Moyenne Corniche and stop in Èze. Visit the Fragonard perfume factory, beautifully located with breathtaking views of the blue Mediterranean Sea. Hear about the fascinating tradition of the art of PERFUME-MAKING, before arriving in Nice. An optional outing is available tonight to Monte Carlo. Meal: Breakfast

Day 8: French Riviera. Excursion To St. Paul De Vence A highlight visit this morning to the picturesque hilltop town of St. Paul de Vence. Explore the many art galleries and enjoy the spectacular view, or relax at a café, where you may see the locals play pétanque (lawn bowling). Return to your hotel for a lazy afternoon. Meal: Breakfast

Day 9: French Riviera–Paris Transfer to the railway station and board the high-speed TGV TRAIN to Paris. This evening, dinner has been included at a local restaurant, where you can try out specialties like escargots (snails), soupe à l’oignon (onion soup), and boeuf bourguignon (beef Burgundy), followed by a drive for a first impression of the French capital. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 10: Paris Discover the city with a Local Guide and admire its most renowned sites: the Opéra, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysées, and more. During your SEINE CRUISE enjoy spectacular views of Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower. To enhance your stay, you may wish to join an optional excursion to the lavish baroque Palace and Gardens of Versailles, built by the Sun King, Louis XIV. Tonight, dinner and a lively cabaret show at one of Paris’ nightclubs might just be the ticket! Meal: Breakfast

Day 11: Paris-London, England Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. Meal: Breakfast

April-September 2019. Call us for latest price and availability.

Price is based on double occupancy and is subject to availability. Airfare is not included.

Includes: Full buffet breakfast daily; 2 dinners with wine in Rome and Paris.

Tour Code: GJ

• 7 Days in Ireland
• 7-Day The Best of Southern England
• 16-Day European Tapestry with London
• 10-Day Footsteps of Apostle Paul
• 9-Day Spiritual Highlights of Italy

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How to Visit France, Italy, and Greece: 10, 14, and 21-Day Itineraries

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Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy, France

How to plan your trip to France, Italy, and Greece depends on how much time you have to travel and the experiences you wish to have, but our examples can help you find the best ways to divide your time during a personalized trip.

Step into the grandeur of the Sun King as you explore Versailles. Bask in the glory of an empire in the heart of Rome’s Colosseum. Witness the breadth of Western Civilization at the Parthenon in Athens. Whether looking for distinguished cuisine or celebrated wines, colorful beaches or timeless sunsets, you can find charm, beauty, opulence, and layers of history.

A customizable Zicasso tour can help you organize your trip according to your timeline and preferences for the perfect France, Italy, and Greece trip.

10 Day Vacations to France, Italy, and Greece

14-day vacations to france, italy, and greece, 21-day vacations to france, italy, and greece, spend the right number of days in france, italy, and greece for you.

Paris, France

Experience the essential highlights of Paris, explore the splendors of Rome, embrace the layered history of Athens, and indulge in the natural wonders of Santorini when you enjoy a 10-day trip to France, Italy, and Greece.

You can wander through the Louvre and travel to the top of the Eiffel Tower, uncover the vast corners of the Vatican Museum and stand at the base of the Trevi Fountain, walk through an ancient neighborhood at the foot of the Acropolis and lounge on a beach that edges a bubbling caldera.

Ten days is a perfect amount of time in which to sample the highlights, as you indulge in ancient history and contemporary luxuries in the countries.

Where to Visit During Your Vacation

Days 1-3: Paris

Days 4-6: Rome

Days 7-8: Athens

Days 9-10: Santorini

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Santorini, Greece

The opulence of the past can come to life on a 14-day tour of France, Italy, and Greece, as you travel to Paris, the Loire Valley, Rome, Tuscany, Athens, and Santorini.

With an incredible collection of things to see and do, you can witness masterpieces on display in the Louvre, visit grand palaces soaring over the Loire Valley, and find imperial ruins that add to the fabric of modern Rome.

Wander charming medieval towns that crown Tuscan hilltops, view marble luxuries that once decorated Athenian temples, and enjoy marvelous panoramas that sweep across Santorini’s cliffs on a trip of a lifetime.

Days 4-5: Loire Valley

Days 6-8: Rome

Days 9-10: Florence/ Tuscany

Days 11: Athens

Days 12-14: Santorini

Venice, Italy

With natural wonder and cultural heritage to explore, you can find endless immersive experiences as you travel on a 21-day France, Italy, and Greece tour. Enjoy a chocolate tour and the culinary majesty of Paris, and traverse the island monastery of Mont Saint-Michel.

View the Sistine Chapel in Rome, witness the Birth of Venus in Florence, and cruise the canals of Venice. Delight in a view of the Parthenon from a lively local cafe in Athens, bask on a pristine Mykonos beach, and visit an ancient city covered in ash on Santorini, with each new experience unraveling the depth of wonder each destination offers.

Days 4-6: Normandy

Days 7-9: Rome

Days 10-12: Florence/Tuscany

Days 13-14: Venice

Days 15-16: Athens

Days 17-18: Mykonos

Days 19-20: Santorini

Athens, Greece

The beauty of France, Italy, and Greece can take you to the heart of the Mediterranean or the jewels of the Alps, the center of epicurean delights or the home of Western Civilization.

Discover the network of grand palaces and pilgrimage routes, beaches and lively cafes as you embrace the culture and heritage that exemplifies the three countries. Our France, Italy, and Greece Tours has plenty of inspiration for planning your perfect trip.

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Wandering our World

Your Journey Begins Here

• by Wandering our World
• Posted on March 21, 2023

France Or Italy: The Honest Comparison You Need In 2023!

Last updated on March 21, 2023 by Wandering our World

T he question for many when trying to decide between France or Italy for their holiday, is what really separates these European destinations from each other? The answer, is actually more than you may first think.

While France has a great coastline, if your priority is sun, sea, and sand, then Italy may be a better choice than France. Italy has some stunning beaches and the water is often lovely and warm for swimming.

However France is arguably the better choice inland, as the diversity of culture, tradition, and landscape from region to region in France is just astonishing. As the land of cheese and wine, France also has a rich culinary tradition, although Italy’s diversity of cuisine makes it a popular choice with foodies too .

Yet the reality is that’s just scratching the surface when it comes to what a holiday in either France or Italy can bring.

That’s why after spending time in each, we pit France vs Italy below.

We compare both in-depth before looking at what each country has to offer, the food you can try, what natural attractions you can see in each, as well some amazing towns and cities you should visit. All so you can decide which is the best holiday destination for you!

So let’s dive in!

A Quick Overview Of France vs Italy

• How Do The Beaches & Landscape Compare

How Do The Cities & Towns Compare?

• How Does The Cuisine Compare
• Which Should You Choose

Both France and Italy are known for their superb coastlines and iconic cities, so you’re guaranteed a great holiday whichever you choose.

However, in our experience the beaches are a little better in Italy than in France.

The Italian coastline has some stunning stretches of sand – some of the best in Europe – and with hundreds of islands there are still opportunities to find secluded pieces of paradise all to yourself. So if beaches are your priority, then Italy may be a better choice than France.

France has some stunning beaches too – especially in the French Riviera.

But this nation also has a rich history, can boast iconic cities like Paris and La Rochelle, and ancient fairytale-like towns such as Annecy and Yvoire.

On top of that France’s different regions have exceptionally unique qualities and charm – as we outline later.

The dramatic scenery in France, such as in the French Alps and the Pyrenees mountain range, also make it a wonderful climbing and hiking destination.

However Italy is one of those countries that really gives France a run for its money when it comes to holiday destinations.

This nation has a rich history, and architectural gems from the Roman Empire are everywhere. Furthermore, cosmopolitan cities like Milan , Rome , Florence , and Venice are famous for their galleries, museums, and beauty.

The stunning scenery in Italy, from the Dolomites mountain range to the islands of Sardinia and Scilly, and the beautiful lake district in the north, means Italy is arguably more beautiful than France. At least in our eyes.

The food scene is also phenomenal in Italy, so if cuisine is top of your holiday list then Italy may be the better choice. Although France – the home of wine and cheese – is a culinary giant in its own right.

Whilst in terms of expenses, we’ve found that Italy can be slightly cheaper than France when it comes to accommodation and eating out. Although saying that, they’re both quite similar destinations cost wise.

How Do The Beaches & Landscape Compare?

France: beaches & landscape.

With pleasant weather for most of the year, alongside regions that are as diverse as they are pretty, France is one of those countries we’ve been going back to for years.

For beach lovers, the French Riviera – or Côte d’Azur as it’s also known – is the place to be based. This coastline on the Mediterranean Sea is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

One of our favourite beaches is Plage de Pampelonne which is a long stretch of coastline beside Saint-Tropez with gorgeous soft sand and lovely crystal clear water for swimming.

For a more secluded beach, then head to Calanque d’En-vau , which is just south of Marseille. This isolated beach can only be reached by boat or via a trail that takes 2-3 hours, so you won’t find crowds here.

The beach sits in a cove, and the water – trapped on either side by dramatic cliffs – is different shades of blue. It’s the perfect spot for swimming.

However, France has so much more to offer than just sun, sea, and sand. The winding canal system throughout the country means you can travel through France by boat – which in itself is a great way to see just how varied this country is from region to region, and something that’s pretty unique to France.

In Normandy, in France’s north-west, a trip to the breathtaking tidal island of Mont Saint-Michel (photo above) is a must. The seemingly gravity-defying abbey is a pilgrimage destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In Alsace – which borders Germany and Switzerland – you can find centuries-old towns that look like they’ve been plucked from the Swiss Alps. Surrounding them is a landscape full of wild flowers and forests that appear like something from a Van Gogh painting.

For avid walkers and hikers who want a real challenge, the French Alps and Pyrenees mountains both have countless trails that span a variety of difficulties and lengths. With these breathtaking mountain ranges, if you’re a camper and hiker France may be best for you.

The Trekkers Haute Route , which starts in France’s Chamonix, and ends in Switzerland’s Zermatt, is a highly demanding multi-day trek, but possibly one of the best in Europe. Recommended: Common & Dangerous Spiders in France

If you’re a wine aficionado then France is the country for you, and visiting the French wine regions of Bordeaux and Burgundy will be a delight. Vineyards are spread throughout these areas and scattered amongst them are spectacular medieval towns.

Italy : Beaches & Landscape

Northern Italy has fantastic beaches, and the capital of seaside tourism in north Italy is Rimini on the Adriatic coast – famous for its fine sandy beaches and promenade of bars, restaurants, hotels, and nightclubs.

Northern Italy also happens to have some of Europe’s most iconic and beautiful lakes. The stunning Como , Garda , Iseo and the highly underrated Orta lakes are all within easy traveling distance from Milan.

Further north are the hiking and winter sport paradises of the Italian Alps and the Dolomites – possibly Europe’s most easily recognisable mountain range.

The island of Sicily in the south has an attractive climate, historic cities such as Palermo and Catania, miles of fine sandy beaches, vineyards, Greek temples, Roman sites, and gorgeous baroque towns.

Related: Scilly or Sardinia: Which should you choose?

Back on the mainland of Southern Italy is Cinque Terre (see photo below) – the postcard-perfect collection of ancient villages on the Liguria coastline. This National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site receives 2.4 million visitors a year. Why? It’s gorgeous!

From north to south the villages are Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore, each with unique character and superb sea views. This is mostly a place for beaches, outdoor activities, and water sports.

The rocky mountainside of Aspromonte National Park in Calabria has the abandoned ghost town of Pentedattilo and a wild untouched landscape that is well worth visiting too.

If you’re looking for centuries-old dramatic coastal towns, long stretches of beach that go on for as long as the eye can see, and warm waters and great snorkeling, then Italy will be perfect.

France: Cities & Towns

If you’re looking for a country with exceptional cities, towns, and regions that seem to have their own culture, then France arguably has Italy beat.

Cities like Paris are worth a multi-day visit in their own right. The capital’s chic cafes and coffee shops are great places to watch the world go by, and a fantastic place to experience France’s famous cafe culture.

This city also has one of the world’s most famous shopping streets – the Champs-Élysées .

The iconic Moulin Rouge remains a popular evening spot for tourists in Paris too, who wish to visit the place where the modern form of can-can was invented.

However French cities like Strasbourg , Toulouse , and Bordeaux all offer their own unique charm and insight into French life as well.

Strasbourg, the capital of the Grand Est region, is a fascinating city which mixes French and German influences due to its proximity to Germany.

La Petite France in the city is well worth visiting. This postcard pretty district sits on the Rhine river and is made up of centuries-old homes – some made from timber – and is full of quirky cafes and shops. It’s historically a chocolate-making district, and some small chocolate shops with delicious goods still exist here.

Away from French cities are the medieval towns that dot the countryside. Some are built around the wine trade, like stunning Saint-Émilion . With its many outside cafes and bars, this town is one of the best places in the wine region to taste France’s most famous export.

Further north, take a trip to the colourful town of Colmar (photo below) in the north-east which looks as though it’s come out of a Hans Christian Anderson storybook. Colourful buildings, cobbled streets, and flower boxes hug the canals that make up the old town. It’s arguably the most beautiful town in Europe.

As you have probably guessed by now, France is a country where there’s so much to explore from region to region. Each area has its own unique culture, allowing you to really experience and see a lot if choosing to visit several parts of the country.

Or with such diversity, just choose what suits you best! Love wine – head to Bordeaux. Want to top up that tan, take a trip to the French Riviera. Fancy indulging in France’s famous cafe culture while soaking up galleries and world-famous museums, then get that flight to Paris . Simply put, it’s near impossible not to find a part of France that won’t satisfy your holiday cravings.

Italy: Cities & Towns

City breaks to Italy are popular throughout Europe due to the cosmopolitan feel, and perfect mix between old and modern. And if you’re looking for a holiday that encompasses city vibes, shopping, museums and galleries, then we think Italy may be a better choice than France.

Bologna is a gorgeous medieval city in north Italy that you must visit, and it’s thrived thanks to the steady flow of students that has kept this city a vibrant place to visit.

Food lovers can delight in the city’s food festivals like Eataly and a slew of food markets where you can learn more about its cuisine. This is also an excellent choice for art, music and Italian film enthusiasts who are all catered for inside Bologna’s galleries and museums.

Face the tourists and head to Venice , but take your time strolling its hidden side streets, canals, piazzas and local shops and cafes. After all, this is one of the world’s most beautiful and iconic cities.

Discover a treasure trove of history in its museums, visit St Mark’s Cathedral and Venice’s ornate churches, the exquisite old theatre Teatro La Fenice and the sprawling art museum Gallerie dell ’Accademia . Or take a boat to see the colorful island of Burano .

In the heel of Italy’s geographical boot is the region of Puglia which is home to the charming city of Lecce . Its streets are perfect for wandering to discover its hidden piazzas, beautifully detailed buildings and churches including the baroque Santa Croce .

The city’s main square is Piazza Sant’Oronzo , the site of a Roman amphitheater and in the evening join in with the local tradition of strolling down the evening passeggiata before dinner. Day trips include the lovely seaside towns of Otranto and Gallipoli for moreish local flavors.

The cosmopolitan city of Milan is not known for being incredibly ‘Italian’, as it lacks the cobbled streets and ochre buildings that Italy is best known for, but it has a wealth of culture to discover and is one of Europe’s best cities for shopping.

The main sights include the majestic Sforza Castle , the incredibly detailed Duomo where you can climb up onto the roof and the ornate Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – a shopping center with beautiful mosaics and designer stores.

Outside of this, the canal area offers chic eateries, all-you-can-eat sushi, street art galore and vintage shops plus bars to enjoy the city’s lively aperitif culture. 

Then of course there’s the likes of Rome, a city full of Roman buildings, architecture and more. It’s as close to a massive open-air museum as you can get!

As you may have guessed, when it comes to a city holiday Italy really excels. But when it comes to regional diversity (and all the interesting things that comes with it), France is hard to beat.

How Does The Cuisine Compare?

The traditional food of France and Italy are loved across the world, and who wins this food fight surely comes down to already known personal preferences.

France: The Food

French cuisine is famous around the world, mainly due to two exports – cheese and wine!

There are wonderful region-specific cheeses throughout the country, from Camembert in the north, to the potent Roquefort in the south. The latter is one of the world’s most famous blue-cheeses, and you can visit the caves where Roquefort is matured by visiting the village where it’s made – Roquefort-sur-Soulzon .

If you’re looking for something more meaty, then try Boeuf bourguignon . This dish hails from Burgundy and is a beef stew that is braised with red wine and cooked with a selection of vegetables like carrots and mushrooms.

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to what to drink, and most red wines from the Bordeaux region are going to trump any other wine-growing region in the world.

However if you want something other than wine, then try Crème de cassis – this sweet blackcurrant liqueur is a popular after-dinner drink.

Italy: The Food

The eight provinces of Northern Italy all offer unique culinary traditions, influenced by neighboring countries such as France, Austria, and Slovenia, making the north a real foodie’s paradise.

In the Aosta Valley try Fontina cheese , with its milky and sweet flavors. In Emilia-Romagna you’ll come across piadini sandwiches , a flatbread stuffed with cheeses, hams, or salad.

Of course, the north is most famous for prosciutto di Parma (from Parma); balsamic vinegar (from Modena and Reggio); and Parmigiano Reggiano .

In Venice, sample, Risotto al Neri di Seppi , risotto flavored with cuttlefish and colored with its black ink.

But South Italy is the birthplace of pizza! Go to Naples for an authentic classic Margherita pizza and fried pizza calzone style.

The Amalfi coast offers fresh seafood while you sip your Limoncello lemon liqueur – which also tastes good in cake form!

On Sicily, sample Nero d’Avola red wine, a native grape to the island and don’t leave without trying the wonderful couscous of Trapani or the pastries of Noto.

France Or Italy: Which Is The Better Choice?

Both France and Italy will provide an unforgettable holiday, but they’re also very different destinations.

While France has a great coastline, if your priority is sun, sea, and sand, then Italy may be a better choice than France. Italy has some stunning beaches and the water is warm for swimming.

Both Italy and France have some great city breaks too, and it’s hard to separate these countries in that respect, though Italy’s cities may just trump France’s.

However France is arguably the better choice inland, as the diversity of culture, tradition, and landscape from region to region in France is astonishing.

As the land of cheese and wine, France also has a rich culinary tradition, although Italy’s diversity of cuisine makes it a popular choice for foodies.

Recommended For Your Trip To France Or Italy

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The Best Places to Visit in Italy

By Nicole Kliest

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Making an argument for traveling to Italy is like convincing a pasta lover to eat a bowl of bucatini—it isn’t necessary. But choosing where to visit is another matter. After all, the country’s diversity is one of its strongest selling points. From high-altitude regions sharing borders with the likes of France and Switzerland in the north, to sun-drenched sea villages dotted along the wild coastlines of the south, one could spend an entire lifetime exploring Italy and still have only just gotten started.

A country informed by its impassioned people, arresting landscapes, ancient history, and about a million other things. Italy is an intensely rich tapestry of culture. Ernest Hemingway put it best when he wrote: “We only half live over here. The Italians live all the way.” Indeed, la dolce vita imbues just about everything in Italy, with tourists flocking to all corners of the country to bask in the afterglow of their immersive slow living.

So, why not adopt the Italian mindset and embrace a leisurely approach to traveling here this year? Pick a destination, savor it, and savor it some more. Continue below for your guide to some of the best places to visit in Italy this year, with a mix of both iconic and lesser-known locales (including beautiful hotels to book as your home base).

Road Tripping Through Puglia

Sun-soaked afternoons in pursuit of hidden swimming holes and spritz-fueled aperitivi are standard fare in Puglia . Six distinct provinces puzzle together Italy’s “heel of the boot,” which warrants renting a car and languidly exploring the region at your own pace. Keen to check out those iconic whitewashed cities? Ostuni is famous for that (though lesser-known Martina Franca and Locorotondo are both just as striking). In search of fresh cheese and wine? Burrata originates from Puglia, as does the flavorful indigenous grape variety, Primitivo. The region’s architecture spans from 17th- and 18th-century examples of Baroque architecture to traditional styles such as the masseria (fortified farmhouses, often converted into hotels) as well as those charming trulli in the Itria Valley. And for days by the sea, head further south to beaches like Torre Sant’Andrea and Baia Dei Turchi for turquoise-hued dips (the former is reached via a short hike through the woods).

Stay Here : Masseria Calderisi is a boutique hotel situated on a 17th-century farm that sprawls across 24 acres of ancient olive groves and citrus trees. While here, try to spot the two adopted rescue donkeys , Rosie and Momo.

Culinary Conquests in Modena

By Lorena Meouchi

By Hannah Coates

By Emma Specter

While Bologna is arguably Emilia-Romagna’s most well-known city, the region is also home to another destination that’s of particular interest to foodies. “I spent a good deal of time over the winter in the small city of Modena, which has such an exciting and thriving food scene,” Bellini Travel Founder and CEO Emily FitzRoy says. Her top picks for a memorable meal? A couple of standouts come to mind. “Dinner at Franceschetta 58 cooked by young chef Francesco Vincenzi, or a modest bowl of tortellini in brodo at Aldina, a tiny osteria on the first floor of a building overlooking the buzzing Mercato Albinelli, which also has to be my favorite food market in all of Italy.”

Stay Here : Less than an hour away from Modena’s city center is Casa Conoscenti in Bologna. Set in a former 14th-century mansion and replete with historic finishes like original frescoes, this boutique property is understated yet striking.

Outdoor Adventure in the Dolomites

Whether during the wildflower-bloomed days of summer or in the powdery ski season, the Dolomites in northeastern Italy are an underrated Alpine paradise. “This mountainous area is a natural wonder, with amazing food and a mix of culture and history,” Alison Duray of luxury tour operator Abercrombie & Kent says. Outdoor experiences are the cornerstone of a visit to any of the villages, with common activities including via ferrata , hiking, and skiing in dramatic landscapes. “German is spoken in some towns right alongside Italian, and the food scene incorporates the same cultural mix, with hearty dumpling pasta and fresh mountain food products,” Duray says. Wine lovers should also take note of Trentodoc sparkling wines, which are made in the picturesque vineyards of Trentino-Alto Adige.

Stay Here : Forestis is a luxury eco-friendly wellness resort enveloped by nature, offering staggering views of the sawtoothed mountain peaks and forested valleys.

Wine Tasting in Montalcino

A quaint hilltop town in Tuscany’s countryside, Montalcino appears frozen in time with its rolling pastures, cobblestone streets, and medieval architecture. The region is famed for its prestigious wine—Brunello di Montalcino—which is made from the Sangiovese grape and draws in oenophiles from around the world to experience its complex, elegant flavors. “Experience this picturesque town with tastings at a family-run wine estate,” Duray suggests. Montalcino is arguably best experienced by bicycle, with views of hilly vineyards and meandering farm animals serving as your peripheral scenery while en route to a visit to Fortezza di Montalcino. This fortress was constructed in 1361 by the Sienese and its many nearby side streets are worth taking the time to get lost in. (Tip: While in town, swing by Bottega d’arte on Via Boldrini for a hand-painted ceramic to take home.)

Stay Here : Castello Banfi Il Borgo is a boutique property that’s owned and operated by one of the region’s most iconic wineries, Banfi. The sprawling property dates back several centuries and is surrounded by ancient olive groves and hilly vineyards.

Pastoral Leisure in Umbria

Escape the droves of tourists in Florence with a trip a couple of hours south to Umbria. This underrated region in central Italy is peppered with countless small villages oozing with charm, which makes both a road trip or train journey appealing modes of transit. (You can train here directly from Milan, Florence, and Rome.) Similar to other picturesque Italian countrysides, your days can be spent popping into old churches, roaming around puzzle-like cobblestone streets, and sampling local fare such as crostini with black truffles, porchetta, or fichi girotti (dried figs filled with flavors like toasted almonds or cocoa).

Stay Here : Borgo dei Conti Resort opens this summer under the direction of the hoteliers behind The Place in Florence and Londra Palace in Venice. This 13th-century property will now serve as a 50-room boutique hotel with an outdoor swimming pool overlooking the undulating Umbrian hillside.

Coastal Charm in Abruzzo

Just two hours east of Rome lies Abruzzo— a rustic region with rich culinary traditions and natural splendor. With the staggering Apennine Mountains serving as a gateway on one end and the gleaming Trabocchi Coast on the other, it’s no wonder Abruzzo is considered an underrated gem by locals and in-the-know travelers alike. While in the countryside, discover the local cuisine at Reale , an innovative restaurant at the helm of three-starred chef Niko Romito that honors terroir and tradition. Interested in sampling the region’s famous wines? Head for a tasting at Masciarelli’s striking estate situated in a 17th-century fortified palace. Then, you’ll need to make your way to the Adriatic to see a trabucco; a large wooden fishing machine. Some of these also function as restaurants, like Trabocco San Giacomo, which makes for an immersive, magical meal suspended above the sea.

Stay Here : Sextantio Santo Stefano di Sessanio is located in a restored fortified medieval village. An albergo diffuso (or ‘scattered hotel’), its rooms are spread across the village surrounded by local artisans in an effort to recreate what life was like here hundreds of years ago.

Pristine Swims in Sardinia

“Sardinia is another world, with a whole other language even, on the second largest island of the Mediterranean,” Duray says of the idyllic ‘ blue zone ’ (regions of the world where life expectancy is claimed to be longer than average). The island is beloved for its mountain villages as much as it is for the rocky coastline, with archeological sites and natural wonders at every turn. “The interior has an ancient history, visible through the nuraghi (stone constructions) going back millennia,” Duray says, adding that the famed beaches in the north are becoming more accessible “while not detracting from its gorgeous Emerald Coast .”

Stay Here : Gallicantu Stazzo Retreat is a lovely farmhouse retreat in the countryside with five rooms and two suites that overlook an almond grove. Take a dip in the pool beneath the shade of leafy trees and enjoy a wine tasting in the cavern with meats and cheeses from nearby farms.

Running Through Ruins in Rome

To say Rome is having a moment may feel trite—the nearly 3,000-year-old city doesn’t need much publicity these days. But a boom of notable hotel openings in the last couple of years has sharpened travelers’ attention toward the Eternal City, with Six Senses Rome, The Rome Edition, and Bulgari Hotel Roma as leading examples. While here, go off-the-beaten path with activities like an architecture stroll through the eccentric Quartiere Coppedè, a bespoke food tour with a local, or lacing up your sneakers for a colosseum tour with ArcheoRunning on a path not typically open to the public (bookable through Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese ).

Stay Here : Bulgari Hotel Roma is a visual feast, with note-perfect interiors by the Milanese studio Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel. Particularly special is the spa’s 20-meter indoor pool punctuated by eight arabesque marble columns.

Thermal Springs in Pantelleria

Sandwiched between two continents and off the coast of both Sicily and Tunisia, Pantelleria is one of Italy’s most enigmatic islands, requiring several flights to reach its craggy shores. Rent a small car or Vespa to zip around the narrow roads, discovering vineyards with volcanic soil, prehistoric villages, and underwater caves along the way. Pantelleria is also home to several hot springs where you can slather volcanic mud across your skin for a detoxifying holiday under the sun.

Stay Here : Luca Guadagnino’s 2015, A Bigger Splash was filmed on the island and visitors can rent the stunning villa it was filmed at, enjoying the 12 hectares of surrounding trees and vineyards and views overlooking the azure sea. (If you’re traveling with a smaller group, the individual, smaller dammusi are also available for rent.)

Art Hunting in Venice

With a ban on cruise ships entering its historic center, a proposal to limit day-trippers, and a goal of becoming a global sustainability leader, Venice is working toward a brighter future. If you’re planning a visit, support these efforts by not engaging with the ‘eat-and-go’ tourist flow and, instead, settling in for several days to more deeply appreciate the culture. “The art biennale in Venice looks to be the biggest one ever,” FitzRoy says, who points to the Zeng Fanzhi exhibition as a noteworthy highlight. “It includes a structure by Tadao Aando at the magnificent Misericordia which was one of the eight Scuole Grandi in the city and is one of my favorite buildings in Venice.”

Stay Here : The Venice Venice Hotel is within a restored palazzo in the historic city center and takes design cues from contemporary Venetian style with art peppered throughout the property (which required a five-year restoration).

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Can I Travel To France With An Italy Schengen Visa? Here's What You Need To Know

• Last updated Mar 21, 2024
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Travel

Have you ever wondered if you can travel to France with an Italy Schengen Visa? Well, you're in luck! In this article, we will delve into all the details you need to know about traveling to France with an Italy Schengen Visa. So, whether you're planning a Eurotrip or just curious about visa requirements, keep reading to find out all the essential information!

What You'll Learn

Can i use my italy schengen visa to travel to france without obtaining an additional visa, what are the requirements for using an italy schengen visa to enter france, are there any restrictions or limitations when using an italy schengen visa to travel to france, can i enter france with an italy schengen visa for tourism purposes, do i need to inform the french consulate or embassy about my intention to use an italy schengen visa to travel to france.

If you hold a valid Italy Schengen visa, you may be wondering if you can use it to travel to France without obtaining an additional visa. The answer to this question depends on certain factors and circumstances. In this article, we will explore the requirements and possibilities of using your Italy Schengen visa to travel to France.

The Schengen Visa is a type of visa that allows travelers to visit multiple European countries within the Schengen Area. The Schengen Area consists of 26 European countries, including Italy and France, that have abolished passport control at their mutual borders. This means that travelers with a valid Schengen visa can move freely within these countries.

However, although the Schengen visa allows for free movement within the Schengen Area, it does not automatically grant you entry into any particular country. Each individual country still has the right to impose its own entry requirements and may conduct border checks.

To determine whether your Italy Schengen visa will allow you to travel to France without an additional visa, you need to consider the following factors:

• Validity: Check the validity of your Italy Schengen visa. If it is still valid and has not expired, it should generally be accepted for entry into France. However, if your visa is close to expiration, it may not be accepted, as most countries require the visa to be valid for at least three months beyond the intended date of departure.
• Duration of Stay: Consider the duration of your intended stay in France. If your Italy Schengen visa allows for multiple entries and has sufficient remaining days, you should be able to use it to enter France. However, if your visa only allows for a single entry and you have already entered Italy, you may need to apply for another visa specifically for France.
• Purpose of Visit: Determine the purpose of your visit to France. If it aligns with the purpose stated in your Italy Schengen visa (e.g., tourism, business, etc.), you should be able to use the visa for entry into France. However, if your purpose of visit differs significantly, you may need to provide additional documentation or apply for a separate visa.
• Border Control: Be prepared for possible border checks and scrutiny by French immigration authorities. Even if you hold a valid Italy Schengen visa, you may still be asked to provide supporting documents, such as proof of accommodation, travel insurance, or a return ticket. It is essential to carry all relevant documents to avoid any inconvenience or denial of entry.

In summary, if you hold a valid Italy Schengen visa, it is generally possible to use it to travel to France without obtaining an additional visa. However, it is crucial to check the visa's validity, remaining days, purpose of visit, and be prepared for possible border checks. If in doubt, it is advisable to contact the French embassy or consulate or seek professional advice from an immigration lawyer before your trip to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Exploring the Limitations and Considerations of Traveling Outside the US on a J-1 Visa

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Italy is a member of the Schengen Area, which means that holders of an Italy Schengen visa can also travel to other Schengen countries, including France. However, there are certain requirements that need to be fulfilled in order to use an Italy Schengen visa to enter France. Let's take a look at what these requirements are.

• Validity of the Italy Schengen visa: The first and most important requirement is that your Italy Schengen visa should be valid. This means that the visa should still be within its validity period and it should allow multiple entry. If your visa is about to expire or if it only allows single entry, you will not be able to use it to travel to France.
• Purpose of travel: The purpose of your trip to France should be in line with the purpose mentioned in your Italy Schengen visa application. If you have applied for a visa with the purpose of tourism or business, you can use the same visa to travel to France for similar purposes. However, if the purpose of your trip to France is different, such as for studying or employment, you may need to apply for a separate visa.
• Duration of stay: Each Schengen country has its own rules regarding the maximum duration of stay allowed for visa holders. In Italy, it is usually 90 days within a 180-day period. If you have already spent a significant amount of time in Italy and your total stay in the Schengen Area is close to or exceeds 90 days, you may face difficulties in using your Italy Schengen visa to enter France.
• Entry point: The entry point to the Schengen Area should be Italy if you plan to use an Italy Schengen visa to enter France. This means that you need to enter the Schengen Area through an Italian port of entry, such as an airport or a seaport. If you enter through a different Schengen country, you may face questioning from border control authorities in France.
• Supporting documents: You should carry all the necessary supporting documents with you when using your Italy Schengen visa to enter France. These documents may include your passport, visa, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation in France, proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay, and any other documents requested by border control authorities. Failure to provide these documents may result in your entry being refused.
• Return ticket: It is advisable to have a return ticket to your home country or a ticket to your next destination when using an Italy Schengen visa to enter France. This shows that you have a planned itinerary and that you intend to leave the Schengen Area within the allowed duration of stay.

In conclusion, in order to use an Italy Schengen visa to enter France, you need to ensure that your visa is valid, your purpose of travel aligns with the visa application, you haven't exceeded the maximum duration of stay, you enter the Schengen Area through Italy, you have the necessary supporting documents, and you have a return ticket. By fulfilling these requirements, you can have a smooth and hassle-free entry into France with your Italy Schengen visa.

How to Travel to Cabo with a US Tourist Visa

When planning a trip to Europe, it is common for travelers to visit multiple countries within the Schengen Area. For example, someone with an Italy Schengen visa may also want to visit France during their trip. While the Italy Schengen visa allows for travel within the Schengen Zone, there are certain restrictions and limitations to keep in mind when using it to travel to France.

Firstly, it is important to note that the Schengen Area is made up of 26 European countries, including Italy and France. These countries have abolished passport control at their mutual borders, allowing for seamless travel within the area. Therefore, with a valid Italy Schengen visa, a traveler can enter France without the need for an additional visa.

However, there are some limitations to consider. The first limitation is the duration of stay. The maximum duration of stay allowed within the Schengen Area is 90 days within a 180-day period. This means that if a traveler has already spent 90 days in Italy or any other Schengen country within the past 180 days, their stay in France will be limited to the remaining days available. It is essential to keep track of the duration of stay to avoid overstaying and facing potential consequences.

Another limitation to consider when using an Italy Schengen visa to travel to France is the purpose of the trip. The visa should match the purpose of travel, whether it is tourism, business, or other permitted activities. If the purpose of the trip to France is different from what was stated on the Italy Schengen visa application, it may raise suspicion and could potentially result in denial of entry.

Furthermore, it is important to comply with any additional requirements or regulations set by French authorities. These may include registration, reporting, or documentation obligations upon arrival in France. It is advisable to research and familiarize oneself with the specific regulations before traveling to ensure a smooth entry and stay in the country.

To illustrate these limitations, consider the following example: Maria, a Brazilian citizen, obtained an Italy Schengen visa for a three-month trip to Europe. During her time in Italy, she spent 60 days exploring the country. She then decided to spend the remaining 30 days in France. As Maria had not overstayed her visa or exceeded the maximum duration of stay within the Schengen Area, she was allowed entry into France. However, had Maria already spent 90 days in Italy or any other Schengen country within the past 180 days, she would have been limited to a shorter stay in France.

In conclusion, when using an Italy Schengen visa to travel to France, there are restrictions and limitations to keep in mind. These include the maximum duration of stay within the Schengen Area and ensuring that the purpose of the trip aligns with the visa. Complying with any additional requirements set by French authorities is also crucial. By being aware of and adhering to these limitations, travelers can have a successful and legally compliant visit to France.

Can I Travel Domestically with an Expired F1 Visa?

If you have obtained a Schengen visa from Italy for tourism purposes, you may be wondering if you can also visit France during your trip. The short answer is yes, you can enter France using a Schengen visa issued by Italy. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind before doing so.

The Schengen Area is a group of 26 European countries that have agreed to abolish internal borders, allowing for free movement of people within the area. This means that once you have obtained a Schengen visa from one of the member countries, you can generally travel freely within the entire Schengen Area. Italy and France are both part of the Schengen Area, so you are allowed to enter France with an Italy Schengen visa.

However, it is important to note that the purpose of your trip should still be tourism. The Schengen visa is issued for a specific purpose, such as tourism, business, or visiting family and friends. If you have obtained a Schengen visa for tourism purposes, you should not use it to enter France for any other reason, such as work or study. If you need to travel to France for a different purpose, you should apply for a visa specifically for that purpose.

When entering France with an Italy Schengen visa, you will need to present your passport and the visa at the border. The border control officers may ask you some questions about your trip, so it is important to have all the necessary documents and information ready. It is also a good idea to carry any additional documentation that can support the purpose of your trip, such as hotel reservations or an itinerary.

It is also worth noting that the duration of your stay in France should not exceed the maximum number of days allowed by the Schengen visa. The Schengen visa allows you to stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. This means that if you have already spent a significant amount of time in Italy or other Schengen countries, you may have to adjust your itinerary to comply with the visa requirements.

In conclusion, yes, you can enter France with an Italy Schengen visa for tourism purposes. However, it is important to ensure that your trip is still for tourism and that you comply with the maximum duration of stay allowed by the visa. Remember to have all the necessary documents and information ready when crossing the border, and enjoy your trip to France!

Traveling to Cyprus with a Schengen Visa: Everything You Need to Know

If you are planning to visit France using an Italy Schengen visa, you may wonder whether you need to inform the French consulate or embassy about your intention. The short answer is no, you do not need to specifically inform the French consulate or embassy about your travel plans.

The Schengen Agreement allows for free movement between member countries, including France and Italy. This means that once you have obtained a Schengen visa from one member country, you are allowed to travel to any other member country for the duration of your visa. In the case of an Italy Schengen visa, you can enter France without any additional requirements.

However, it is important to note that while you do not need to inform the French consulate or embassy about your travel plans, you should still fulfill the general requirements of the Schengen visa. These requirements include having a valid passport, travel insurance, proof of sufficient funds, and a valid reason for travel.

It is also advisable to carry certain documents with you when you travel to France. These documents may include a copy of your Schengen visa, your travel itinerary, hotel reservations, and any other supporting documents that may be required by immigration officials.

Additionally, it is always a good idea to be prepared to answer any questions that immigration officials may have when you arrive in France. They may ask about the purpose of your visit, your intended duration of stay, and other relevant details. Having a clear and concise explanation will help ensure a smooth entry into the country.

In conclusion, you do not need to specifically inform the French consulate or embassy about your intention to use an Italy Schengen visa to travel to France. However, it is still important to fulfill the general requirements of the Schengen visa and carry the necessary documents when you travel. Being prepared and knowledgeable about the visa requirements will help ensure a hassle-free journey.

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Frequently asked questions.

Yes, you can travel to France with an Italy Schengen visa. The Schengen visa allows you to travel and stay in any of the 26 Schengen member countries, including France and Italy. As long as your visa is valid, you are free to visit any of these countries.

No, you do not need to inform the French authorities specifically about your travel plans if you have an Italy Schengen visa. The Schengen visa is a uniform visa that allows you to travel to any of the member countries without the need for additional permits or notifications. However, it is always a good idea to have a clear itinerary and be prepared to present it at border control, if requested.

The duration of your stay in France or any other Schengen country with an Italy Schengen visa will depend on the validity of your visa. The Schengen visa typically allows for a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period. If your visa is still valid and you have not exceeded the allowed stay, you can extend your time in France. However, it is important to adhere to the rules and regulations of the Schengen area to avoid any complications or violations.

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5 easy ways to combine city and beach vacations in italy in 2024.

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Travelers to Italy in summer often feel they have to decide between city or beach—take in the cultural riches of a major art destination or give in to the dolce far niente vibe of a stunning waterfront locale. Some places make it easy to do both—Venice has its Lido beaches and the seaside hamlet of Nervi is a suburb of Genoa, but here are five other ways you can combine urban and coastal getaways without much fuss.

Rome and the Lazio Coast

Ceiling frescoes in the Gallery of Maps in the Vatican Museums, which have new extended hours.

City: Rome saw 35 million visitors last year, and despite the over-tourism complaints and memories of infernal summer heat waves, the Eternal City is likely to match or surpass that number in 2024. And Rome is ready for the ever-increasing (and often deep-pocketed) throngs, with new properties, like the Bulgari Hotel and Six Senses, and eagerly anticipated for 2024, the Romeo Roma, in a 16th-century palazzo restored by Zaha Hadid Architects (the studio of the late design visionary) near the Piazza del Popolo. The hotel’s restaurant cuisine will be masterminded by Alain Ducasse, and a plunge pool will offer a respite from soaring temperatures.

Temple of Juturna at Area Sacra di Largo Argentina.

In addition to the hotel happenings there are other reasons to head to Rome in 2024. A major archaeological site, the Area Sacra di Largo Argentina where Julius Caesar met his demise, recently became accessible; and the Vatican Museums have extended their hours, particularly good news for early risers—they will now open at 8 AM to accommodate extraordinary post-Covid demand. (The Museums will also stay open until 7PM, and in peak travel months to 8 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.)

Remains of Roman villas in Anzio.

Beach: To escape the heat, do as many Romans do, and head to the nearby Lazio Coast . Among the beaches you can reach in about an hour by train are Ostia Antica , Rome’s former port city, with an outstanding archaeological park a few kilometers from the water. Anzio, the site of a fierce WWII battle in 1944 (also a former Roman port and once a vacation spot for the Roman Emperor Nero), is noted for its Bandiera Blu (Blue Flag) beaches, a designation given for meeting cleanliness and sustainability requirements. (The train to Anzio takes about an hour and a half.)

For longer beach stays head to the glamorous La Posta Vecchia, a five-star hotel i n Palo Laziale (an hour’s drive from Rome) that attracts a chic international crowed. The estate was once owned by the noble Orsini family and Jean Paul Getty and is now part of the Pellicano Hotels Group.

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Ranked the 20 happiest countries in the world in 2024 according to a new report, the 32 best deals from amazon s big spring sale, urbino and pesaro.

An early evening view of Urbino, a Unesco World Heritage Site.

City: Among Italy’s best, although lesser-known Renaissance cities, Urbino offers significant culture and charm, and just the right level of remoteness to make it seem as if you’ve come across a great find before everyone else has. Its location in Le Marche, or Marches, a central-east region of Italy, may be why the city remains off the most trodden tourist paths. The closest train station is in Pesaro, a roughly 45-minute drive away; the nearest international airport is in Rimini, 60 kilometers away.

The Galleria Nazionale delle Marche at the Palazzo Ducale. (Photo by Roberto Serra, Iguana ... [+] Press/Getty Images)

Like Florence, Urbino had a great art patron as its leader in the 1400s. Duke Federico da Montefeltro built a landmark palace, Palazzo Ducale, now home to important museums, among them the National Gallery of the Marche, where you can see works by Raphael (who was born in Urbino), Piero della Francesca and Titian. Urbino has a pristine historic center, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s changed little since its Renaissance heyday.

A Pesaro beach on the Adriatic.

Beach: Pesaro , a 45-minute drive from Urbino, offers a choice of attractive sandy Adriatic beaches, but the town is much more than a sun-and-surf destination. Known for an annual opera festival and fine museums, including those honoring a famous native son, the great composer Gioachino Rossini ( The Barber of Seville ), this rich artistic hub was designated Italy’s Capital of Culture for 2024.

Florence and Versilia

The Palazzo Strozzi courtyard

City: Stay cool by booking one of Florence ’s hotels with a pool like the Villa Cora overlooking the Boboli Gardens, or the Palazzo Castri 1874, close to the Accademia and Central Market. At sunset hunker down with a refreshing Negroni (believed to have been first created in Florence) at watering holes like Gucci Giardino 25, a café and cocktail lounge in the Piazza della Signora, or the Picteau Bistrot & Bar in the Hotel Lungarno, where the terrace provides extraordinary views of the Ponte Vecchio.

Art lovers will appreciate how the capital of Renaissance art has become a player on the contemporary art scene, with galleries and museums frequently showcasing the works of leading 20th- and 21st-century artists. This summer and fall check out exhibits honoring Anselm Kiefer (March 22-July 21, 2024) and Helen Frankenthaler (September 27-January 26, 2025) at the Palazzo Strozzi. And don’t miss the Museum of Costume and Fashion at the Palazzo Pitti, where new rooms showcase the work of seminal Italian and international designers from 1900 to recent times.

Aerial view of the Viareggio coastline.

Forte dei Marmi.

Beach: It takes about an hour and a half by train or car to get to Florence’s nearest seaside in Viareggio on the Versilian Riviera, a littoral running from the border with Liguria to Piombino. Known for its long sandy beaches on the Tyrrhenian Sea, many designated Bandiera Blu, the area attracts a robust Italian and European clientele. Viareggio, a resort since the 19th-century, has stately hotels, like the Grand Hotel Principe di Piemonte, and other properties with a range of prices. A little under two hours from Florence is jet-set favorite, Forte dei Marm i, once the retreat of the Agnelli family and in recent years a haven for Russian billionaires. You can stay at the former Agnelli home if you book at the Augustus Hotel & Resor t.

Matera and the Ionian Coast

Matera in the southern Italian region of Basilicata.

City: Not surprisingly, the oldest settlement in Italy, Matera, is very, very old, reaching to the Paleolithic Age, although the city’s complex of cave dwellings, or sassi, was inhabited until the middle of the twentieth century. Long an impoverished area Matera rebounded in recent decades, with investors seeing the unique potential for revitalization and tourism. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993 and the European Capital of Culture in 2019. You can experience the troglodyte architecture at the source by staying in a hotel like the Sant’Angelo Luxury Resort, an albergo diffuso, some of whose rooms are built into the ancient caves.

A beach in Metaponto, not far from Marina di Ginosa and Bernalda.

Beach: The Ionian Coast is less than an hour’s drive from Matera. In Marina di Ginosa you’ll find sandy beaches and translucent waters with private clubs offering umbrellas and loungers. About 45 minutes by car from Matera is Bernalda , home to Palazzo Margherita, Francis Ford Coppola’s wonderfully restored 19th-century palace in his ancestral home town. The hotel has access to a private beach club 15 minutes away.

Verona and Lake Garda

Ponte Pietra, a Roman-era bridge in Verona.

City: Verona checks all the boxes for visitors to Italy looking for centuries-spanning art, architecture, great food and an intimate cultural experience. The city’s magnificent Roman-era amphitheater is home to the world-renowned annual opera festival (June 7–September 7, 2024), this year presenting Aida , The Barber of Seville, Carmen and other works. Among the sights to see—Biblioteca Capitolare di Verona, considered the oldest library (in continuous use) in the world; the Maffei Palace with art ranging from Veronese to Andy Warhol; the main cathedral (Santa Maria Matricolare) with Titian’s, The Assumption ; and one of the loveliest squares in Italy, Piazza delle Erbe, dating from the Middle Ages. Of course, Verona is known for its Romeo and Juliet lore—the Casa di Giulietta, a 13th-century house once owned by the Del Cappello family (their surname possibly the inspiration for the fictional Juliet’s Capulet) is among the most visited sites.

Beach: Verona lies close to Lake Garda , where where many beaches can be reached in 60-75 minutes. Among those worth looking into—the Parco San Vigili o on the heavenly San Vigilio peninsula. In addition to the mesmerizing views, the Parco (tickets required) offers a swimming pool with sun loungers and lake access, set among a property with olive and cypress trees. There is also a restaurant and bar.

Campagnola beach near Malcesine on Lake Garda.

Malcesine , also on Garda’s eastern shore, and designated one of Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages, has a selection of free (pebbly) beaches. For those opting for a sandy lakefront, head to Manerba del Garda (on Garda’s western coast) and its White Bay (Baia Bianca) beach. The sand was imported from the Caribbean.

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10 Of The Most Beautiful Vineyards In The Whole World

W ine can be considered a universal language among humans, and plenty of vino aficionados will travel the world in search of the best bottle. Fortunately, there are top-tier vineyards around the world that wine lovers can visit for a chance to delight their taste buds.

Combining travel with a wine-tasting excursion is the perfect trip idea, whether it's time for a romantic getaway, a girls' trip, or some solo travel. These are some of the most beautiful vineyards in the world that every wine lover should have on their must-visit list.

Champagne, France

Tucked away in the northern region of France, Champagne is a beautiful province and a popular travel destination. According to CV Villas , a luxury travel brand, the region is the world’s number-one destination for wine lovers and romantics looking to treat their taste buds to sparkling wine.

The region is known to produce some of the best sparkling wines in the world such as Champagne, which is named after the region of its origin. The area boasts a stunning landscape filled with lush vineyards and charming towns worth exploring.

Côtes de Provence, France

Bordering the Mediterranean Sea to the south, Côtes de Provence is a must-visit destination in France for the ardent wine lover. The region is famed for producing twenty of the best two hundred wines from around the world.

Honeymooners love visiting the region just to experience the refreshing taste of Château d'Esclans Les Clans Rosé 2020 wine, one of the many refreshing rose flavors produced in the area. CV Villas ranks this region as the second-best wine destination in the world. It’s a great place to discover the best wines in France .

Napa Valley, USA

One place that seems to give France’s wine dominance a run for its money is the iconic Napa Valley in the United States. It’s the third-most-popular place in the world that wine aficionados should have on their travel bucket list.

The region is known for the production of excellent varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay wines. It’s home to beautiful wineries that offer romantic al fresco dining setups complemented by awe-inspiring views of undulating mountains.

RELATED: Springtime In California's Wine Country: Tastings, Tours, And More

Bolgheri, Italy

Italy is also represented among the world’s best wine destinations by the lovely Bolgheri. This coastal region is famed for its delightful wineries that produce some of the best-tasting wines.

Tourists come here each year not only to indulge in delicious wines but to also feast their eyes on splendid views of the dramatic coastal scenery.

• World-renowned wineries such as Ornellaia are known to produce some of the best red wines in the world.

Stellenbosch, South Africa

Fifth on the list of the best wine destinations in the world according to CV Villas is South Africa’s Stellenbosch. Wine aficionados planning to travel to Africa usually have this region on top of their list of places to visit.

As the producer of world-class wine varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinotage, Stellenbosch has a major claim to fame. There are several other picturesque wineries in the area such as De Toren Private Cellar that offer wine-tasting tours and breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Toscana, Italy

Among the world’s best wine destinations is another representative of Italy, Toscana. Sprawling along the stunning Ligurian coast, this is one of the most famous wine-growing regions in Europe and the whole world.

• The area is famed for “Wine Windows”, a unique wine tradition that dates back to Medieval times .

Vacationers and adventure-seekers come here to tour the picturesque wineries found on the undulating Tuscan hills. Romantic couples come to admire the gorgeous sunsets over the vineyards.

RELATED: You Know What Pairs Well With Wine, But What About The Things That Don't?

Ribera del Duero, Spain

Tucked away in the northern part of Spain, Ribera del Duero is a world-famous wine destination that ranks highly, according to CV Villas, among the ten best wine destinations in the world. The area is known to produce premium quality wines such as Vega Sicilia and Pingus, which honeymooners and romantics adore very much.

• The region has the perfect climate and soil conditions for growing Tempranillo grapes, which are the best for producing high-quality wine.

Sonoma County, USA

California is another fantastic destination that should be on the wishlist of every wine aficionado visiting the United States. The state is home to Sonoma County, the eighth-best wine destination in the world according to a study conducted by CV Villas.

During springtime, the region is usually flocked by wine lovers hoping to join the exhilarating wine-tasting tours that take adventures across beautiful vineyards in the county. It boasts about 240 square kilometers of picturesque vineyards worth visiting.

Puligny-Montrachet, France

Another must-visit destination in France for wine aficionados is the beautiful commune of Puligny-Montrachet. Set in the eastern part of the country, the region is the proud producer of the popular Burgundy wine which boasts an excellent variety of dry white wines as well as velvety and full-bodied red wines.

Most of the vineyards in the area grow grapes such as chardonnay, aligoté, and pinot blanc that make the white wines as well as pinot and Gamay for the red varieties. Among the ten best wine destinations globally, it ranks ninth.

RELATED: Arizona Has Its Own Wine Country & These Are The Vineyards To Visit

Franciacorta, Italy

Found in the Lombardy Region of Italy, Franciacorta is tenth on the list of the world’s best wine destinations. The region is known to produce some of the finest wines in the world such as Berlucchi, Bellavista, and Ca' del Bosco.

It is a great place where romantics can enjoy a peaceful escape while exploring the picturesque vineyards and tickling their taste buds with a variety of sparkling wines.

• The famous Franciacorta wine, which is a dry wine, comes from this region.

No matter what varietal wine lovers seek, a wine-tasting trip to any of these destinations is sure to grant them a delectable tasting experience—as well as delightful travels.

Six Nations 2024 results: Final standings as Ireland crowned champions

Everything you need to know about the 2024 championship

Ireland became back-to-back Guinness Six Nations champions by crushing Scotland’s quest for a first Triple Crown in 34 years with a scrappy 17-13 win .

Andy Farrell’s hosts were well below their free-flowing best in Dublin but avoided any major ‘Super Saturday’ drama to retain the championship title.

Andrew Porter’s second-half try fatally broke the resistance of the stubborn Scots to ignite the St Patrick’s weekend celebrations and satisfy an expectant capacity crowd at the Aviva Stadium.

England finished third in the Six Nations after a monster Thomas Ramos penalty in the final minute sent them spinning to a heartbreaking 33-31 defeat at Groupama Stadium .

Steve Borthwick’s men have trailed at half-time of every match of the Championship and once more they faced an uphill battle, this time in the form of 16-6 deficit that included a try of the tournament contender for scrum-half Nolann Le Garrec.

But they turned the contest on its head by amassing 21 unanswered points through two Ollie Lawrence tries and a Marcus Smith touch down as their attack ran amok through the France midfield.

France regrouped to cross through Leo Barre and Gael Fickou but England were not done yet as Tommy Freeman stormed over in the right corner with five minutes remaining.

They appeared to have secured their fourth win of the Six Nations having staged multiple fightbacks but when they infringed just outside their half with seconds left, Ramos kept his nerve to hit the target.

In the first game of the day, Wales suffered the ignominy of a first Six Nations wooden spoon since 2003 after Italy claimed a 24-21 victory over them in Cardiff.

2024 Six Nations results in full

• Friday, February 2: France 17 Ireland 38
• Saturday, February 3: Italy 24 England 27
• Saturday February 3: Wales 26 Scotland 27
• Saturday, February 10: Scotland 16 France 20
• Saturday, February 10: England 16 Wales 14
• Sunday, February 11: Ireland 36 Italy 0

Round three

• Saturday, February 24: Ireland 31 Wales 7
• Saturday, February 24: Scotland 30 England 21
• Sunday, February 25 : France 13 Italy 13
• Saturday, March 9: Italy 31 Scotland 29
• Saturday, March 9: England 23 Ireland 22
• Sunday, March 10: Wales 24 France 45
• Saturday, March 16: Wales 21 Italy 24
• Saturday, March 16: Ireland 17 Scotland 13
• Saturday, March 16: France 33 England 31

Six Nations table

• England Rugby Union Team,
• Scotland Rugby Union Team,
• France Rugby Union Team,
• Six Nations,
• Wales Rugby Union Team,
• Ireland Rugby Union Team
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