Italy constantly ranks among the top five most visited destinations worldwide. And for good reasons. From the mouthwatering cuisine to the fascinating historical sites, and stunning landscapes, it offers plenty of places to visit for any traveler.
And when it comes to Walking Tours in Italy, you’ll be delighted to know that an abundance of popular and hidden places are waiting to be explored. Here are just some of them:
Italy’s capital, the Eternal City of Rome, is a great place to start your tour. Best explored on foot, it offers an open-air history lesson just by meandering through its streets. Take the time to explore the Roman Forum, admire the grandeur of the Colosseum, and end the day with some traditional Pasta alla Carbonara at one of the eateries in Trastevere.
Florence, the Renaissance gem, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. See the city from Duomo’s Bell Tower, walk the charming Ponte Vecchio, and immerse yourself in art at Galleria dell'Accademia and the Uffizi Gallery. Beyond the city, Tuscany offers vineyards, cypress-lined roads, and charming villages perched on hills.
While Venice can be quite crowded at times, it’s a must-stop on your Italian tour, even if only for a day. Wander through St. Mark’s Square, navigate the labyrinth of canals, and check out the famous bridges. And if you want to get a respite from the crowds, head over to the nearby Burano and Murano Islands, known for their glassmaking and lace-making.
Very well-known among walking enthusiasts, the Cinque Terre straddles the Ligurian coast. You can walk between them, surrounded by stunning views of the sea. On the way, explore charming fishing harbors and stop for a well-deserved meal of fresh seafood.
Further south, the Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most breathtaking walking destinations. You’ll walk past dramatic cliffs, along lemon groves, and in gorgeous villages like Positano.
On the Adriatic Coast, Apulia is where you can hike in the mountains and walk on the beach on the same day. And in between, you’ll encounter trattorias scattered among the hills, white-washed villages by the sea, and endless olive groves.
As with any activity practiced outdoors, you should know when the best time for a Walking Tour in Italy is. If you’re heading to Northern Italy, plan to visit from late spring (May) to early autumn (September). The weather is warm and exploring the mountain villages is a pleasure. As you venture to the center and south, you’re better off avoiding the peak of summer (July & August) as temperatures can be very hot. That said, Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are excellent choices if you plan a walking tour anywhere in Italy.
And if you want to avoid the colder climates elsewhere, head to Southern Italy (Apulia, Sicily, Campania) in winter (December to February). It may be wet at times, but the temperatures are mild, and you can spend a lot of time outdoors.
Join a Walking Tour in Italy and let each step bring you closer to the heart and soul of this incredible country!