Italy: The First Journey
Living history, layered cities and extraordinary landscapes
Classic north–south (12 days).
Italy rewards travellers who explore beyond its celebrated capitals. Roman archaeology, medieval townscapes, Renaissance painting, volcanic coastlines and alpine scenery sit within a network of distinct regions. Travel slowly enough to experience regional character: the lagoon life of Venice, Tuscan hill towns, the south’s Greek and Norman heritage, and the islands of Sicily and Sardinia.
- 01VeniceExplore the local guide and adapt travel time to your interests.
- 02FlorenceExplore the local guide and adapt travel time to your interests.
- 03RomeExplore the local guide and adapt travel time to your interests.
- 04NaplesExplore the local guide and adapt travel time to your interests.
Culture and food along the way
Historic centres, archaeology, cathedral art, opera, design and local festivals all matter here. Italy’s UNESCO-listed heritage includes everything from Roman monuments to medieval urban ensembles; plan around individual collections and neighbourhoods rather than trying to see every major museum in a single day.
Food changes across short distances: fresh pasta in Emilia-Romagna, pizza traditions in Naples, risotto around Milan, seafood along coastal towns and a wide range of regional cheeses, wines and olive oils. Eat seasonally, check local opening days and reserve for popular restaurants.
Travel notes
High-speed trains link Rome, Florence, Bologna, Milan, Naples and Venice. Regional trains and buses reach many towns, while a car can be useful for rural Tuscany, Puglia or parts of Sicily. Check restricted-traffic zones (ZTL) before driving into historic centres.
Spring and autumn often suit city walks; summer suits islands and beaches but can be hot and crowded. Winters are good for mountain sports and slower museum visits. Check site and ferry schedules seasonally.
Explore the detailed local guides
Independent editorial route sample, not a packaged tour or official visitor authority. No tickets or accommodation are included. Verify changing information before departure. © 2026 Antartica Corporation.