Last Updated: 7/4/23 | July 4th, 2023
Italy is home to incredible food (give me all the gnocchi and wine), rolling green hills, cultivated vineyards, stunning lakes and mountains, a long rich history dating back thousands of years, and a welcoming culture.
It is one of the most dynamic countries in the world and will live up to all the hype you’ve heard. It’s composed of 20 different regions, each with its own unique culture, cuisine, wine, and landscape. Italy is basically a confederation of different regional “countries and cultures.”
Because there’s so much to see and do in Italy (and not everyone has a lot of time), many travelers decide to take tours when they visit Italy.
I’ve visited Italy on my own and with tour companies.
And there are A LOT of tour companies in Italy. (Like way, way, way too many.)
It can be very overwhelming deciding which Italy tour company to pick. I know — I’ve spent hours upon hours researching them all!
To help you plan your trip and really get beneath the surface of this amazing destination, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite tour companies in Italy.
Whether you’re looking for a basic walking tour or a multi-week excursion, these companies are the ones I think offer travelers the best experience at the right price.
Here are the best tour companies in Italy:
1. Walks of Italy
If you’re looking for something a little more in-depth than a free tour, my favorite walking tour company in Italy is Walks. They are one of the largest day tour companies in Italy and offer tours in eight cities across the country.
What makes them so special is that they get access to places other companies don’t, including before- or after-hours visits to some of the most popular sites in Italy (such as an early-access tour of the Sistine Chapel before it opens or a Colosseum at Night Tour, where you’ll see where get to experience the arena after it closes).
They are true experts and I love their tours. They are my favorite tour company in Italy. Most tours last around four hours and start at around 40 EUR per person.
2. Free Tours by Foot
For free walking tours in cities around Italy, check out Free Tours by Foot. They organize tours (or collaborate with companies that run tours) in Rome, Florence, Milan, Sorrento, Naples, and Venice. You’ll be able to get a solid overview of each iconic city thanks to knowledgeable local guides. These free tours are 2-3 hours long, making them a great introduction to each destination. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
If you prefer to go at your own pace, they also highlight companies that offer self-guided audio tours and guides.
3. Devour
Devour is one of the most highly rated food tour companies in Italy. They’ve been featured in The Guardian, CNN Travel, Forbes, and many other popular publications. In short, they’re a perfect choice for anyone looking to really dig in and learn about Italy’s world-famous food cuisine.
I’ve been on their tours in both Italy and abroad and am never disappointed. The food tours, drink tours, and pasta-making classes are guaranteed to give you an authentic local experience guided by experts who truly know their topics.
They offer tours in Rome, Florence, Bologna, Naples, and Venice, with each tour generally lasting 3-4 hours. If you’re a foodie like me, their tours are a must!
Tickets start at 49 EUR per person and sell out fast, so be sure to book in advance.
4. Divina Cucina Culinary Experiences
Judy is an American expat who has been eating and drinking her way around Italy since the 1980s, and she has crafted some unique experiences for anyone looking to get under Italy’s culinary skin. Her private “Morning at the Market” tours in Florence will give you a nuanced look at Italy’s food culture and history, during which she shares her cooking tips and expertise. Judy also offers weeklong cooking intensives if you’re looking to really step up your Italian cuisine.
5. Travel Italian Style
My friend Cassandra runs this incredible bespoke travel company that creates customized trips to Italy. She’s been working in the tourism industry for well over a decade and has been to every single region of Italy. In short, she knows her stuff and can plan the perfect getaway for you. Vineyard tours, cooking classes, boutique accommodations — you’re guaranteed to experience life as a local with Cassandra’s tours.
If you’re looking for an immaculately curated upscale vacation to Italia, this is the tour company for you. She really knows her stuff!
6. Intrepid Travel
This is my go-to travel company when I’m looking for multi-day or multi-week trips. They employ local guides with incredible insight and appreciation for the communities they take you to, and the groups are never too big. Plus, they only run ethical tours with a small environmental footprint. I’ve gone on some amazing tours with Intrepid over the years, including to Jordan, Morocco, and Madagascar, and have never been disappointed.
They offer a variety of tour options in Italy, from a Best of Italy tour to a Hiking the Dolomites adventure. Tours last 8-15 days, with prices starting around $1,600 EUR per person.
Tantalizing food tours, charming visits to historic vineyards, deep dives into ancient history — you can find it all in Italy. Whether you’re looking for a quick introduction or an in-depth, multi-day adventure, these awesome Italian tour companies will help you have the trip you’ve always wanted.
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Book Your Trip to Italy: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Some of my favorite places to stay are:
- The Yellow (Rome)
- Ostello Bello (Milan)
- Archi Rossi Hostel (Florence)
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
- Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
- Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
- Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)
Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.
Want More Information on Italy?
Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Italy for even more planning tips!
