sunset over tiber and st peters basilica rome italy

Italy Holidays

Flights + Hotel

Experience unforgettable Italy

A holiday to Italy conjures up magical combinations of past and present.

Explore Italy's capital, Rome, and take in the picture-perfect architecture, from the grandeur of St Peter’s Basilica to the ornate statues of the Trevi Fountain.

Famous for its food, each area of Italy has its own speciality dish. Head south to Naples for authentic pizza or to Turin for creamy, warming risotto.

Italy holidays offer the chance to immerse yourself in millennia of history. Admire ancient ruins in the capital and at Herculaneum and Pompeii, or navigate the romantic, winding canals of the island city of Venice.

There is staggering natural beauty on display right across the country. The north boasts the Dolomite mountains and famous lakes of Garda, Maggiore and Como, while south of Naples lies the breathtaking Amalfi Coast.

Choose your perfect Italian adventure with Etihad.

view of sunlight and colosseum in rome italy

Things to do in Italy

An Italy package holiday can cater to a variety of interests and any combination of itineraries thanks to its picturesque landscapes, incredible historical cities and diverse regional cuisine.

view of inside the coloseum at sunset in rome

Investigate the Roman past

Italy has many ancient stories to tell, particularly in its capital, the former centre of the Roman Empire.

Much of Rome's architecture dates back almost two millennia, with the globally iconic Colosseum, Roman Forum and Pantheon all dating from the first century.

Among the theatres and temples are echoes of the Renaissance and Baroque eras.

The ornate features of the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps and Villa Borghese stand in perfect contrast to their backdrop of ancient ruins.

Where to stay in Italy

Step back in time

For a holiday in Italy that immerses you in the charm of this most charismatic of countries, look no further than Rome’s Trastevere neighbourhood.

This beautiful yet quiet area is so close to the city’s main attractions that you’ll probably be able to see some of them from your window.

In the evening, explore the winding, cobblestone streets lined with cafes and restaurants.

A little further up the river, Prati straddles the space between Rome’s historic centre and the Vatican, making it another great base for exploring the city.

table and chairs outside cafe on pretty cobbled street in trastevere neighbourhood of rome in italy
a bowl of risotto with saffron and parmesan

Indulge in culinary delights

Foodies looking to take full advantage of a city break in Italy should consider heading to Naples, Milan or Bologna.

Each of these proud cities has its own take on the country's classic dishes, in addition to regional specialities and buzzing street food scenes.

Be sure to book ahead if you’re looking to enjoy a special dining experience in one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants on offer in one of these sumptuous destinations.

Fall in love with Italy

The timelessly romantic city of Venice is perfect if you're looking to enjoy a honeymoon in Italy, with its charming hotels and stunning views.

The pretty neighbourhood of Castello is an ideal spot for lovebirds – you'll find that the further you travel from San Marco, the more the city takes on a local vibe.

Quiet and private, Castello is the perfect place to stay if you're looking for time away from the crowds in an authentically Italian setting.

a view over the rooftops of the san marco area of venice italy
colourful and quaint narrow street in venice italy

All you need to know about Italy

Local currency

The local currency used in Italy is the euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs easy to find in towns and cities.

Languages spoken

Italian is the main language spoken in Italy – however English is widely used, particularly in cities and larger tourist areas. 

Getting around

All major cities in Italy have good public transport, including bus and underground rail networks. Venice, however, makes full use of its waterways with an efficient fleet of vaporetti (small passenger ferries).

Public holidays  

Italy observes many religious festivals associated with the Catholic faith. Expect businesses to close during both Easter and the festive season.

More about Italy

Followers of fashion

Italy is famed for its couture houses and fashion designers – a love of style runs like a seam through Italian life and culture. Venture to Milan to experience it to its fullest.

Here you can seek out the latest must-have labels in sumptuous surroundings such as at the domed Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – the oldest shopping mall in Italy.

You can also head to the Triennale design museum to get a fascinating insight into the role fashion has played in helping to make Milan Italy’s financial powerhouse.

Milan isn’t alone in dressing well – you’ll find that the whole country loves to look good, especially on the passeggiata, the customary evening stroll through town. 

beautiful domed interior of the galleria vittoria shopping complex in milan italy
beautiful view of the amalfi coast and houses in the background in italy

Beaches and lakes

Surrounded by the crystalline waters of the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas, Italy boasts plenty of perfect coastline.

A favourite with Italians and visitors alike is the Amalfi Coast, which stretches from stunning Sorrento to Salerno. This coastline is dotted with tiny beaches backed by sheer cliffs and pastel-coloured fishing villages.

Around 30 minutes from Verona, you’ll discover the wonders of Lake Garda. This Italian gem is the largest lake in the country, its shores studded with charming towns.

First-time visitors should head to Garda town then take a ferry to Sirmione for the day to discover the gorgeous Jamaica Beach and the medieval castle Rocca Scaligera, which overlooks the lake.

Religion and Vatican City

You’ll find far more than just Roman temples depicting Italy’s religious affinities in Vatican City.

Almost three quarters of Italians are Christians, with Catholicism being the country’s majority denomination. The result is dozens of grand, decorated duomi (cathedrals) and basilicas each holding Latin mass throughout the week.

While it’s classified as independent from Italy – and is the smallest country in the world – Vatican City is home to the works of some of Italy’s most famous artists and sculptors.

It’s also where you’ll find some of its best cultural sites such as St Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums.

view of the dome of cathedral of florence and clear skies in italy
quaint and small traditional trulli houses in italy

Why we love Italy

“Everyone should visit Italy. Dazzling food, sensational coastline and cool cities contrast with lovingly preserved ancient sites. Visit once and you won’t be able to wait to go again.”

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