Sicily on a Budget: A 4 Day Itinerary from Mainland Italy

You may remember my first solo trip back in May, where I tried out a new flight route with Ryanair.

Flying from Manchester to Reggio Calabria, in Southern Italy, costing me just £28 return!

I've explored northern Italy quite extensively over the last few years with my husband and children, but in all honesty, knew very little about the Calabrian region until this year.

Well I fell in love! As soon as I got home from my last trip, I booked to return in October (again as a solo traveller), just before the season ended. This time paying a little more, but still a bargain at just £52- to find the cheapest dates I used the sky flight search

In May's trip I explored Scilla and Tropea, as well as spending a little time in Reggio Calabria itself- all beautiful towns, located in Calabria which I would highly recommend.

Reggio Calabria is just across the water from Sicily, but due to the plans I'd already made, I never got the chance to include Sicily in my last trip. This time, I decided to base myself purely there.

On my itinerary this time was Messina, Taormina, and Cefalù, all stunning destinations rich in history, views, and local charm.

So without further-ado, here’s everything you need to know to make this journey from Reggio Calabria to Sicily on a budget. From public transportation costs in Sicily, to tips on affordable accommodation.

Where can you fly from to Reggio Calabria?

As mentioned above, the flight from Manchester to Reggio Calabria Airport was just £52 return. Ryanair started flying this route at the end of April 2024, which ran until October. Unfortunately, they now only fly from London Stansted for UK departures. Hopefully this route will become available in the future.

At the time of publishing, Ryanair will also be running flights to Reggio Calabria in 2025 from Barcelona, Berlin Brandenburg, Bologna, Brussels Charleroi, Frankfurt Han, Katowice, London Stansted, Marseille, Milan Malpensa, Paris Beauvais, Pisa, Tirano, Turin & Venice Marco Polo.

Reggio Calabria Airport

Reggio Calabria airport is located just 4.8km from the city centre- approximately a 12 minute drive. Very convenient in terms of getting to the centre and for any onward connections.

Departures from Reggio Calabria Airport

The airport at Reggio Calabria is very small. When you enter the departures hall there are a couple of check-in desks, a vending machine and public bathroom, but nothing else.

At security you'll find just two security scanners and two counters for passport control, I think it's the smallest airport I've ever been to during my travels.

Once through security, you'll find a kiosk selling hot and cold drinks, pastries, sandwiches and a few other snacks.

There's also vending machines and a public bathroom. There is no duty free or other shops/restaurants. There are also just two gates- one for international flights and one for internal within Italy. It's advisable to eat before arriving at the airport for this reason.

Arriving in to Reggio Calabria Airport

On arriving in Reggio Calabria airport, again there's just two counters for passport control. It's so small that there aren't even any customs channels to walk through, so don't be surprised when you are approached by a member of staff before leaving the airport, asking if you have anything to declare.

Getting from Reggio Calabria Airport to Sicily

Upon landing in Reggio Calabria, I caught a coach from outside the airport - you'll find local buses outside the arrivals hall, waiting to take passengers on to Reggio Calabria Centrale Train Station, Reggio Calabria Centre and the Reggio Calabria Ferry port.

The cost of a ticket from Reggio Calabria Airport to the ferry port was just €2, payable in cash to the driver. The journey took around 15 minutes.

Messina Ferry

Once at the Port, I bought a ticket at the counter to take me to Messina Ferry Port (Sicily) for €4- payable by cash or card. You can also purchase tickets online here

To see where else you can cross from mainland Italy to Sicily read our guide here

Ferries run approximately every hour, and the crossing takes around 40 minutes.

For anyone looking to explore Sicily without a car, this route is ideal, as Messina’s public transport network can then connect you directly to key destinations across the island including Catania and Palermo.

You'll find Messina Marittima Train Station right next to Messina Ferry Port and Messina Centrale Station is just a 4 minute walk away too.

This ferry from Reggio Calabria is for foot passengers only and the crossing I found to be relatively smooth, passed by talking to a few ladies from my flight who were heading to Taormina for a week.

Where to Stay in Sicily

As a disclaimer, when I booked this trip I reserved accommodation in Cefalù. Unfortunately, just 24hrs before my departure I discovered that there was a train strike planned on the day I needed to fly home- meaning I'd need to get back from Cefalù to mainland Italy with little time for delays. This didn't seem viable with it being around 3.5 hours away from the airport.

Luckily I was able to cancel that stay, and decided to book 3 nights in Messina instead. By staying in Messina, I did not need to rely on the trains at all on the strike day.

Staying in Messina would allow me to walk from my accommodation to the port, then cross back to the mainland as a foot passenger on the ferry.

Messina is not as picturesque as towns such as Taormina or Cefalù, but it is very well connected to the rest of Sicily with trains and coaches leaving regularly to all major towns and cities. Messina is therefore a great base, giving you many options on places to explore.

Accommodation in Messina

The accommodation I chose in Messina was the Borgo Antico Rooms, located just a 14 minute walk from the port, and 12 minutes from the main train station in Messina (Messina Centrale).

When searching for accommodation, I found most choices to be very reasonable in terms of cost. A double room at Borgo Antico rooms cost me just £167 for the three night stay (around €199). I was travelling solo, but the cost would have being the same for a couple too, so very good value.

The Borgo Rooms were great for exploring Messina itself, being right on the doorstep of the main shopping and restaurant area of the city.

The room was spotless and included towels, toiletries and room service each day.

It was well equipped with plenty of sockets, a hair dryer, flat screen tv with Netflix, mini fridge, desk and most importantly air-con!

The owner was also on-hand at all times via WhatsApp to answer questions and to facilitate check-in and out.

Day 1: Messina

After a long day travelling, then getting settled and freshened up in my accommodation, it was around 6pm when I headed back out to explore Messina.

Some areas around the port appeared a bit run-down when I arrived and therefore I wasn't sure what to expect from Messina. However, heading in to the city centre reminded me of Turin’s architecture which I love and the main areas were a lot cleaner and well maintained.

Unfortunately Southern Italy & Sicily has a lot less investment than the north, but with that, it brings its own unique charm and definitely shouldn't be missed!

Messina was bustling, with local families and tourists enjoying food and drinks in outdoor cafés, late in to the evening- which I quite often find on a Sunday night in Italy, something I wouldn't see in the UK.

I must have spend a good 2-3 hours wandering around the city centre and visiting Messina's historic sites- the Astronomical Clock of the Cathedral of Messina, Tempio di Cristo and Bascilla Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta being very impressive.

By this point I was so hungry as I hadn't eaten much all day. Everywhere looked very busy, but I managed to find a restaurant that was near to Bascilla Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta.

Where to Eat in Messina?

Despite it being very busy, I luckily managed to get a table at Past'Ovo, a local spot where I had a spaghetti Bolognese and a selection of arancini for starters-they were out of my first choice of a local pasta dish.

All in with a few large wines and a bottle of water, the cost was around €35.

The staff were very attentive and the atmosphere of the place was great- it wouldn't have been my first choice if the city wasn't as busy, but I was pleasantly surprised.

Budget-friendly places to eat in Messina are abundant, making it a great city for solo travellers seeking local Italian cuisine without overspending. I'm in no doubt I could have chosen somewhere cheaper, but given I'd been travelling all day with no more than a sandwich on the plane, I didn't mind paying a bit extra.

By this point it was now around 10.30pm and I was exhausted, so I headed back to my accommodation for the night.

Day 2: Taormina

Day 2 began with me getting some work done- yes I love to travel, but often that means I bring my work with me, the joys of being fully remote (no that wasn't sarcasm, I actually love it!).

Due to my late change in plans, I actually hadn't got the chance to fully research how to get to certain places I wanted to see, I therefore needed to do some research before heading out.

Getting to Taormina from Messina

After looking online, it actually seemed easier to get to Taormina from Messina by coach than train-all the blogs I consulted only mentioned the train option.

You can get the train from Messina Centrale to Taormina in around 45 minutes. However the nearest train station (Taormina-Giardini) is around a 1 hour walk, all uphill to Taormina centre and not recommended. With this option you'd then need to wait for the local bus, which can be fairly irregular or opt for an uber costing around €15.

Coach to Taormina

From outside Messina Centrale train station you can get a coach, directly to the historic centre of Taormina for just €6, taking around 1hr 20 mins. A little longer than the train, but it eliminates the need to then catch a bus, so overall is probably quicker.

The journey was very comfortable and thankfully the coach air-conditioned.

For the best views sit on the left hand side of the coach!

You can read more about the details of this route and bus here

A day in Taormina

Arriving directly at Messina Gate in Taormina, I immediately understood why this town draws so many visitors. In all honesty I think this is the nicest town I've ever been to in Italy, it definitely should not be missed!

You'll find lots of local shops as well as some big brands and many restaurants and bars to choose from within the centre.

The only negative I would say about Taormina is that it was very busy- even though it was October. I would imagine in the height of summer, it would be far too crowded, as the streets in the centre are relatively narrow.

Taormina was featured in the Netflix series 'The White Lotus', which seems to have increased the towns popularity- what most people don't realise is that many of the scenes were actually shot in Cefalù!

For those interested in doing the 'White Lotus' tour in Taormina, this one comes highly recommended by many travellers

In terms of cost, I found Taormina more expensive for food and drink then any of the other places I've visited in Southern Italy or Sicily. If you're on a budget, a day trip here may be a better option than actually using it for a stay.

In the afternoon I enjoyed a meal at Ristorante L'Orologio, located just off the main square, which I would highly recommend in terms of service, quality of food and people watching!

For a main and side with a few drinks it cost me around €50, but I did spend a good few hours there and thoroughly enjoyed it.

Things to See in Taormina

In Taormina there are lots of different types of activities to do, both in the town itself, and some further afield.

I must admit after my meal, I met up with the ladies I'd been talking to on the ferry to Sicily, and we enjoyed a great evening over some drinks in the square.

One of the main sites in Taormina is the Ancient Theater- apart from one in Syracusa, the Ancient Theater of Taormina is the largest building for shows in the Italian Peninsula.

For those wanting to see an authentic opera performance in Taormina, Nazarena Theater has regular shows available to book here.

Other activities in or from Taormina include cooking classes, boat tours and Godfather Tours.

mount Etna from Taormina

One of the most popular tours you can do from Taormina is 'Mount Etna'.

Mount Etna is one of Europe’s most active volcanoes. The trip typically starts with a scenic drive from Taormina, taking about an hour, bringing visitors to the base of the volcano.

From here, multiple options are available to ascend Etna, depending on your adventure level.

The most common approach is a cable car ride from the Sapienza Refuge up to 2,500 meters, offering stunning views of the volcanic landscape.

From the cable car station, visitors can either hike on foot or take a 4x4 jeep further up to approximately 2,900 meters, where guided tours are available to explore the craters.

For more independent travellers, hiking directly from the Sapienza Refuge is possible, though it requires good physical fitness.

Guided tours from Taormina are another popular choice, including full-day excursions with expert guides who share insights into Etna’s geology, eruptions, and ecosystem

While it’s easy to see why some ask, “Is Taormina worth visiting?” it’s a must-see, even if just for the day. The lively atmosphere, quaint shops, and friendly locals make it a perfect spot for solo travellers.

day 3: Cefalù

Despite my change of plans, I decided I still wanted to see Cefalù. From Messina Centrale Station I took the train directly to Cefalù for just €11 each way- the journey time is around 2 hours.

Cefalù’s train station is conveniently located close to the beach- under a 15 minutes walk. The coastline is beautiful and is filled with striking beach parasols. Even though it was October, there was lots of people sunbathing and in the sea.

While in Cefalù, I walked through the historic centre and visited the ancient lavatoio medievale (historic laundry), which is free to explore and gives insight into the town’s history.

Many ask, “Which is better, Taormina or Cefalù?” Both towns offer unique experiences, but Cefalù has a more laid-back feel, perfect for a day of relaxing and discovering local culture.

Taormina on the other hand has more shops, restaurants and things to do. Both are fantastic places to add to any Sicily Itinerary though, and I recommend you include both if you have the time.

After a gelato, I had a beachfront dinner, enjoying the sunset as light rain began- the first and only on this trip. The temperature in Sicily for the duration of my trip was a warm 28 degrees Celsius.

Mosquitoes can be an issue here in October as I found out to my surprise, so I’d recommend insect repellent, especially for those sensitive to bites.

Day 4: Returning back to Mainland Italy

I started my final day early, catching the 10:30 AM ferry from Messina back to Reggio Calabria.

The ferry journey was just as easy as before, and I connected with the coach back to Reggio Calabria Airport, arriving at the airport just before noon- again the total for the ferry and coach was just €8.

As I mentioned at the start of this blog, amenities at Reggio Calabria airport are extremely limited, so make sure you eat beforehand and don’t rush through security as there is little seating once through passport control.

Additional Tips for Budget Travel in Sicily and Calabria

For anyone planning a similar trip, here are a few practical tips on low-cost transportation options for Italy and Sicily:

Ferries: Regular ferries between Messina and Reggio Calabria cost about €4 and offer a scenic way to cross from mainland Italy to Sicily.

Trains and Coaches: Trains in Sicily are affordable, with options like the Messina-Cefalù route costing around €11 each way. Coaches are also budget-friendly, with air-conditioned rides between Messina and Taormina for only €6.

Food: Finding budget-friendly places to eat in Sicily is easy if you explore local spots. Messina and Cefalù have an array of trattorias, where a meal with wine costs under €25.

Accommodation: Staying near ports or central train stations can save time and money on transportation, especially for those without a car.

Tips for Solo Travellers in Sicily and Calabria

Locals and fellow tourists are generally friendly, but it’s always a good idea to keep contacts handy for assistance, especially in quieter areas. I was lucky enough to meet two groups of female travellers from my flight that were staying in the region- both gave me their mobile numbers should any problems arise, which was very reassuring.

In terms of where to stay, smaller towns with plenty of tourists like Cefalù and Taormina seemed safer than Messina. In Messina I did encounter cat-calling a few times and it didn't feel as safe on the Monday and Tuesday evenings when there wasn't as many families around. Messina is generally considered safe for solo travellers and personally I wouldn't hesitate to return.

As expected follow normal practices like you would at home by staying in well lit areas and main roads when walking at night. Avoid getting cash out and wearing expensive items too.

Final Thoughts

Exploring Sicily on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on experiences. With careful planning, you can savour the best this region has to offer- from Sicily’s ancient theatres and picturesque beaches to the lively streets of Taormina and Cefalù.

For more inspiration on affordable Italian coastal trips or hidden gems in Sicily take a look at the blogs featured below.

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Ultimate 7 Day Venice & Verona Itinerary by Train & Ferry

Planning a trip to Northern Italy and want to explore Venice, Lake Garda, and Verona all in one go?

This 7-night, 8-day Italy itinerary takes you through stunning cities and lakeside escapes – all easily accessible by public transport.

Come with us as we run through our tried-and-tested Venice itinerary, which we have tried to keep as affordable as possible, whilst experiencing the best this region has to offer.

Verona places to see and eat and stay image of Juliets house verona

This route is perfect for first-timers, couples, or families looking to combine iconic sights with hidden gems.

It includes flying in to Venice and out of Verona. We often find it cheaper to arrive and depart from different airports. On our recent trip, we paid just £60 return, despite it being peak school holiday season.

As usual, we always use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flight combinations.

Just a quick note before we begin- this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these. This helps us to continue finding you the best deals and to keep the website going.

So lets begin with our perfect Venice itinerary...

Day 1: Arrive in Venice – Stay on Murano Island

Airport Arrival:

Land at Marco Polo Airport and follow the blue signs for water transport right through the airport (very easy- see the 2nd photo for the signs you need to follow).

At the water’s edge, you’ll find a kiosk – purchase your Alilaguna Line 12 ticket to Murano (€10) by card or cash. The boats run every 30 minutes.

Tip: You can’t buy your ticket in the arrivals hall for Murano – it must be purchased at the kiosk by the dock.

Getting from Marco Polo Airport Venice to Murano:

Board the boat, grab a window seat, and take in the lagoon views.

USB charging ports are available onboard – perfect for topping up your phone during the 30-minute ride.

Murano is the first stop on the water bus and the staff will shout out the stop, so you can't miss it.

Where to Stay on Murano:

Murano is the perfect place to start your trip and find your feet, after a busy travel day. The island is relatively small, and is located in the Ventian Lagoon off Venice.

Our recommendation is to stay at NH Collection Venezia Murano Villa. They have modern rooms, canal views, and great access to ferry terminals.

If you can stretch your budget a bit for this one night, then the Murano Suites offer an idyllic location with a touch of luxury.

For other options in Murano, click here

Things to Do in Murano:

Murano is famous for it's glass making, you'll find artisan workshops, where skilled craftsmen still blow glass by hand, so it's only right that you include this on your Murano itinerary.

You could chose to visit the Museo del Vetro (Glass Museum) our pre-book one of the local glass-blowing workshops which are very reasonable in price.

For dinner we recommend dining at the canal side, Trattoria Valmarana which offers authentic Venetian seafood.

Day 2: Burano & Venice

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and head to Murano Faro ferry terminal (just a 5 minute walk from the ferry terminal you arrived at the day before).

Purchase a single 90 minute ticket from the machine for €9.50, then take a ferry to Burano- an island very similar to Murano, but rainbow coloured houses everywhere. An island where homeowners must get permission from the local council to change the colour of their house, so that the current aesthetic is maintained!

The ferry takes around 40 minutes. Aim to leave early to beat the day-trippers from Venice.

Things to Do in Burano:

Snap photos of the rainbow-coloured houses.

Visit the Lace Museum or browse local boutiques.

Climb the leaning tower of San Martino Church.

Where to Eat in Burano

The most well know (and desirable) restaurant in Burano is Trattoria Al Gatto Nero, a Michelin-listed seafood spot with canal side seating.

If you're looking for something more budget-friendly there are counters serving fresh fish and other produce right by the ferry port. There are countless other restaurants along the water offering pizza and pasta for around €15pp- you'll be spoilt for choice!

As the Island starts to gets busier, its time to depart Burano. 3-4 hours is more than enough to explore this small island and have a meal.

Burano to Venice Ferry

Return to the ferry terminal and again, purchase a 90 min ticket for €9.50- this time you need to look for ferries to Venice, these should depart around every 15-30 minutes.

The journey from Burano to Venice Fondementa Nove takes around 30-40 mins.

Where to Stay in Venice:

For a budget stay in great location, we recommend Hotel Antico Doge. Located near to Fondementa Nove and a short walk from Rialto Bridge, this hotel is in a great location.

Breakfast is also included, and the rooms on offer are all traditional Venetian-style right, next to the canal.

Evening in Venice:

After checking in to your hotel, you could enjoy a relaxed evening gondola ride. The cost of this is €90 for a 30 minute ride for up to 4 people- a cost set by the city.

Follow this with an aperitivo at Taverna Al Remer - a hidden gem with canal views and live music.

Day 3: Full Day in Venice

For us, the sights are best explored by foot- let's face it you've done enough boats by this point!

Here’s a walking itinerary that features many of Venice's best sights:

Piazza San Marco – See the Basilica di San Marco & Doge’s Palace (book skip-the-line tickets in advance).

Walk across Rialto Bridge and browse the market.

Visit the Bridge of Sighs.

Wander the Cannaregio district for fewer crowds and great cicchetti bars.

Climb Scala Contarini del Bovolo for panoramic city views.

Consider booking a walking tour to get the most out of your time in Venice.

For dinner visit Ristorante Al Giardinetto da Severino - romantic vibes and classic Venetian dishes.

Day 4: Morning in Venice & Travel to Lake Garda

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before catching a train around lunch from Venice Santa Lucia station to Desenzano del Garda.

The journey time is around 1hr 45mins and tickets typically cost €14 for the one way journey. Some routes require a quick change in Verona, which is very easy.

For checking timetables and purchasing train tickets we always use Trip.com rather than Italian rail sites, as we find it easier to see what we're booking without the language barrier.

If travelling from Venice, the easiest places around Lake Garda to stay are either Peschiera Del Garda, Desenzano Del Garda or Sirmione.

For this trip we chose Sirmione.

Getting to Sirmione from Desenzano Del Garda

Outside Desenzano Del Garda train station you may find taxis waiting. If not, you can phone a local firm to book one- there is a sign at the taxi stand with the details of a local firm.

We used the number from the sign and our taxi arrived in under 5 minutes. The taxi took us to our hotel in Sirmione, the journey being 20 mins and costing €25. The telephone number for anyone wishing to call ahead is +39 030 914 1527

Where to stay in Sirmione

We recommend a 2 night stay at Hotel Alevic which is located just a 5 minute walk from Sirmione old town and castle.

Breakfast is included in the room rate, and if the weather is warm and dry, it is served in their beautiful garden. There were so many breakfast choices, including a section set aside for people with dietary requirements such as gluten free.

Most rooms have a balcony, and the hotel also has a rooftop pool and bar with incredible views over Lake Garda.

After arriving in Sirmione, check in to your hotel, later heading out for dinner at Il Girasole, a romantic, lakefront restaurant which receives consistently good reviews.

Before bed enjoy a nightcap at the hotels rooftop pool bar.

Day 5: Exploring Sirmione

Morning to Afternoon:

Explore Scaligero Castle (amazing photo ops).

Walk to the Grottoes of Catullus, ancient Roman ruins on the lake’s edge.

Stroll the quaint streets or relax in Jamaica Beach.

Optional spa visit to Terme di Sirmione.

Return for a dip in the rooftop pool and soak in those Lake Garda views.

There are lots of places around the town where you can grab a gelato and other sweet treats, along with sandwiches for lunch.

For dinner, we recommend Caruso restaurant which is very reasonably priced, despite its fantastic location, right next to the lake.

Day 6: Travel to Verona

Morning in Sirmione

After breakfast at Hotel Alevic, relax around the pool or grab one last gelato in Sirmione.

Today, we suggest moving on to Verona. To get there, you're going to get a taxi back to Desenzano del Garda station, then take a train to Verona Porta Nuova station, just a 28 min ride away, and costing just €5. Trains run around 3 times an hour, so there's no need to pre-book.

In Verona we recommend staying at Hotel Milano & SPA which is just steps from the Arena, with a dreamy rooftop bar and amazing views.

exploreLeave your bags in the hotels luggage storage and take a guided tour of the arena, later checking in and enjoying a meal at the hotels rooftop restaurant, overlooking where you've just explored.

Day 7: Day in Verona

Your final full day in Italy is best spent exploring this romantic city. After breakfast at the hotel, it's time to wander the streets of Verona, firstly stopping at Juliet’s Balcony and Casa di Giulietta. Then moving on to explore Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori.

In the afternoon climb Torre dei Lamberti for sweeping views and cross the Ponte Pietra and visit the Roman Theatre.

For dinner try Antica Bottega del Vino- an iconic wine bar with an atmospheric setting.

Day 8: Depart from Verona for Home

After lunch it's time to head home.

From Verona Porta Nuova station, take the Airlink to Verona Airport costing just €7. It's fast, affordable, and frequent. The journey takes around 20 minutes.

Tickets can be purchased at the bus stop from the machine.

Final Thoughts

This 7-night Venice itinerary combines the romance of the canals with the lakeside serenity of Garda and the cultural charm of Verona. With easy public transport links throughout, this route is ideal for those wanting a no-car-needed Italian escape.

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10 Affordable Hotels in Italy with Bucket List Views

Dreaming of waking up to postcard-perfect views of Italy’s most iconic landmarks- without blowing your budget?

From the sparkling shores of Lake Garda to the timeless beauty of the Florence Duomo, Italy is packed with jaw-dropping sights.

But you don’t need a five-star budget to enjoy million-dollar views!

In this guide, we’ve rounded up 10 affordable hotels across Italy that offer unforgettable views of the country’s top tourist attractions. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape to Lake Como, a city break in Rome, or a scenic stay in Sorrento, these budget-friendly hotels deliver big on location, charm, and views to remember.

1. Hotel Fontana – Affordable Rome Hotel with Trevi Fountain Views

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly Rome hotel with Trevi Fountain views, Hotel Fontana is a dream come true. Located directly in front of one of Italy’s most famous landmarks, this charming 3-star hotel offers unbeatable access to the heart of Rome-perfect for first-time visitors or romantic getaways.

Step outside the front door and you’re quite literally at the Trevi Fountain, one of the most iconic tourist attractions in the world. Better yet, many rooms offer direct views of the fountain, giving you the rare chance to enjoy this Roman masterpiece without the crowds-right from your window.

Price: From around £107 / €125 / $135 USD per night for a double room (based on travel dates from 6^th–14^th January, some of the cheapest of the year).

Location: Piazza di Trevi 96, 00187 Rome

Highlights:

Incredible fountain-facing rooms
Rooftop breakfast with panoramic views
Walking distance to Pantheon, Spanish Steps, and Piazza Venezia
Free Wi-Fi and continental breakfast included

Whether you’re tossing a coin in the fountain or enjoying the view from your window with a cappuccino, Hotel Fontana offers one of the best value stays in Rome with unforgettable views.

2. Hotel Duomo Firenze – Affordable Hotel With Florence Cathedral Views

Want to wake up to the Florence Duomo just steps from your window?

Hotel Duomo Firenze puts you right in the heart of Florence’s historic centre, directly overlooking the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore- one of the most visited and photographed landmarks in Italy.

This family-run 3-star hotel is a hidden gem for travellers wanting comfort, location, and jaw-dropping views at an affordable price.

Many rooms offer direct views of the Duomo’s iconic dome, designed by Brunelleschi, making it the perfect spot for sightseeing, photography, or simply soaking up Florence’s Renaissance charm.

💸 Price: From around £139 / €163 / $175 USD per night for a double room (based on travel dates in January & February).

📍 Location: Piazza del Duomo 1, 50122 Florence

⭐ Highlights:

Balcony and window views of the Florence Cathedral
Steps from Giotto’s Bell Tower, Uffizi Gallery & Ponte Vecchio
Elegant, soundproofed rooms with modern touches
Free Wi-Fi and daily breakfast included

If you’re planning a cultural escape to Tuscany, Hotel Duomo Firenze is a top choice for travellers seeking a hotel with Florence Cathedral views that won’t break the bank.

3. Griso Collection Hotel – Affordable Lake Como Hotel with Lake Views

Looking for a stylish yet affordable hotel in Lake Como with breathtaking views? The Griso Collection Hotel, located in Malgrate just across the lake from Lecco, is a fantastic choice. Overlooking the shimmering waters of Lake Como and framed by dramatic Alpine peaks, this 4-star hotel delivers big on scenery without the luxury price tag.

Each room is designed to maximise the view- with many offering private balconies overlooking the lake. It’s the ideal base for couples or solo travellers looking for a relaxing escape while still being within easy reach of Milan.

Price: From around £105 / €123 / $132 USD per night for a double room (the lowest prices can be found Oct-Jan but there are still some summer dates available around the £150 per night.

Getting There: Direct train from Milan to Lecco, then a short walk or taxi to the hotel.

Location: Via Provinciale 51, 23864 Malgrate (LC), Lake Como

Highlights:

Panoramic lake-view rooms and suites
On-site rooftop restaurant and terrace bar
Free parking and breakfast included
Close to ferries for exploring Bellagio, Varenna & Como

With its postcard-worthy location and excellent transport links, Griso Collection Hotel is perfect for anyone seeking a Lake Como stay with spectacular views on a budget.

4. Historic Affordable Rome Hotel With Pantheon Views

For a stay steeped in history and surrounded by Rome’s most iconic landmarks, Antico Albergo del Sole al Pantheon is a standout choice. Located directly opposite the Pantheon, this elegant 4-star boutique hotel has hosted travellers since the 15^th century, making it one of the oldest hotels in Rome.

The rooms blend classic Italian charm with modern luxury, and many offer direct views of the Pantheon itself- a rare and magical sight to wake up to. The location is unbeatable, placing you steps from Piazza Navona, Campo de’ Fiori, and the Trevi Fountain.

💸 Price: From around £221 / €259 / $278 USD per night (with best availability in November to January, plus some dates in late July and the last week of August).

📍 Location: Piazza della Rotonda 63, 00186 Rome

⭐ Highlights:

Uninterrupted views of the Pantheon
4-star luxury in a prime historic location
Stylish rooms with elegant Italian décor
Breakfast included, plus a chic on-site bar

With its limited availability and high demand, Antico Albergo del Sole al Pantheon is a must-book for anyone seeking an affordable luxury Rome hotel with landmark views-especially if you love history and being in the heart of it all.

5. Terrazza Duomo – Affordable Amalfi Coast Hotel With Cathedral Views

If you’re dreaming of an Amalfi Coast getaway with unbeatable views and authentic Italian charm, Terrazza Duomo is a hidden gem. Located right on Piazza Duomo, this boutique hotel overlooks the majestic Amalfi Cathedral, offering guests front-row views of one of the region’s most iconic landmarks.

With just a handful of rooms, Terrazza Duomo combines warm hospitality with a prime location. It’s perfect for travellers looking to explore the Amalfi Coast without splurging on ultra-luxury resorts- and it’s just minutes from the beach, ferry port, and scenic coastal hikes.

💸 Price: From around £200 / €234 / $252 USD per night for a double room (based on wide availability throughout the year).

📍 Location: Piazza Duomo 7, 84011 Amalfi (SA), Campania

⭐ Highlights:

Rooms with views of the Amalfi Cathedral and town square
Rooftop terrace with panoramic coastal and city views
Steps from restaurants, beach, and ferry connections
Great base for day trips to Positano, Ravello & Capri

For a memorable Amalfi Coast stay with views of the Duomo, Terrazza Duomo offers an unbeatable mix of location, comfort, and affordability- especially for such a sought-after destination.

6. Affordable Lake Garda Hotel With Lakeside Luxury

Set in a private lakeside park in Riva del Garda, the stunning Du Lac et Du Parc Grand Resort is one of Lake Garda’s most scenic and family-friendly hotels. Despite its resort-style setting, it offers surprisingly affordable prices-especially in October- with beautiful views of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains.

This 4-star resort blends nature and elegance, with a choice of hotel rooms, suites, and bungalows nestled among palm trees, gardens, and walking paths that lead directly to the lake. Whether you're looking to relax or explore, this hotel is a perfect base for discovering northern Lake Garda.

💸 Price: From around £123 / €144 / $155 USD per night for a standard double room in October—one of the best value times to visit.

📍 Location: Viale Rovereto 44, 38066 Riva del Garda (TN), Trentino-Alto Adige

⭐ Highlights:

– Parkland setting with direct lake access
– Outdoor and indoor pools, spa, and wellness facilities
– Walking distance to Riva’s old town and ferry terminal
– Free bike hire, breakfast included, family-friendly

Whether you’re travelling as a couple or with kids, Du Lac et Du Parc offers a rare mix of affordability, lakeside serenity, and resort-style facilities- making it one of the best-value Lake Garda hotels with stunning views.

7. Cinque Terre Cliffside Hotel With Breathtaking Views in Riomaggiore

If you’re dreaming of colourful cliffside villages and endless sea views, La Vista di Marina by The First in Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre, is the ultimate coastal escape. Perched above the Ligurian Sea, this boutique hotel offers panoramic views over the harbour and rooftops of one of Italy’s most iconic towns.

Part of the luxury “The First” collection, this property blends sleek, modern design with a front-row seat to Riomaggiore’s unforgettable sunsets. Despite its premium location, stays in the autumn and winter months are surprisingly affordable- making it a perfect choice for off-season travellers.

💸 Price: From around £128 / €150 / $161 USD per night in autumn and winter, with summer rates starting from £290 / €340 / $366 USD.

📍 Location: Via San Giacomo 82, 19017 Riomaggiore (SP), Liguria

⭐ Highlights:

Balconies and terraces with full sea and village views
Contemporary rooms with luxurious finishes
Easy access to hiking trails and the Cinque Terre train line
Perfect for couples and photography lovers

Whether you’re watching fishing boats drift by or catching golden hour over the sea, La Vista di Marina offers a bucket list-worthy stay in Cinque Terre with incredible views- especially in the quieter (and cheaper!) months.

8. Stylish Venice Hotel with Grand Canal Views

For the perfect mix of modern luxury and traditional Venetian elegance, look no further than H10 Palazzo Canova. Set right on the Grand Canal beside the iconic Rialto Bridge, this stunning 4-star hotel offers some of the most Instagram-worthy views in all of Venice- without the five-star price tag.

This beautifully restored palace features elegant rooms with marble bathrooms, high-end finishes, and many offering direct canal views. The rooftop terrace and bar are a major highlight, giving guests sweeping panoramas of gondolas passing by and Venice's timeless skyline.

Price: From under £200 / €237 / $270 USD per night in off-peak months (Nov–Jan), with higher rates during the summer.

Location: Riva del Vin 744, San Polo, 30125 Venice

Highlights:
– Unbeatable views of the Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge
– Elegant rooms with soundproofing and luxe décor
– Rooftop terrace bar with panoramic views
– Central location, walkable to all major sights

If you want to experience Venice in style with Grand Canal views, H10 Palazzo Canova is a top-tier option that remains surprisingly affordable outside peak months.

9. Hotel Milano & Spa – Best-Value Verona Hotel With Arena Views

For one of the best-value city stays in Italy, Hotel Milano & Spa in Verona offers luxury views without the luxury price tag. Located just 30 seconds from the famous Verona Arena, this modern boutique hotel is perfectly placed for sightseeing- and comes with an incredible bonus: a rooftop terrace and hot tub with direct views of the Roman amphitheatre.

Price: From around £89 / €106 / $120 USD per night in low season (Nov–Jan), with great value year-round.

Location: Vicolo Tre Marchetti 11, 37121 Verona

Highlights:

Rooftop bar and jacuzzi with Arena views
Contemporary rooms with sleek design
Steps from Piazza Bra, Juliet’s Balcony & Roman sites
On-site spa and wellness centre

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly boutique hotel in Verona with iconic views, Hotel Milano & Spa is easily one of the best value picks in our top 10- proving you don’t need to spend a fortune for a memorable Italian city break.

10. Hotel No.9 Colosseo – Rome Hotel With Incredible Colosseum Views

If staying next to one of the most iconic landmarks in the world is on your bucket list, Hotel No.9 Colosseo will more than deliver. This chic boutique hotel boasts unrivalled views of the Colosseum, right from your window- or even your bed.

With a clean, modern style and a location that puts you just steps from Rome’s ancient heart, No.9 Colosseo is perfect for travellers who want to soak up the city’s history from sunrise to sunset. It’s a rare gem that manages to combine unbeatable views with surprisingly reasonable prices, especially in the quieter months.

Price: From around £145 / €170 / $184 USD per night in late autumn through early spring, with premium rates in summer.

Location: Piazza del Colosseo, 00184 Rome

Highlights:

Colosseum-view rooms with large windows or balconies
Walking distance to Roman Forum, Palatine Hill & Metro
Stylish, minimalist rooms with luxe details
Ideal for couples and city-break travellers

For a Rome hotel with Colosseum views under £150, No.9 Colosseo is a once-in-a-lifetime stay—without the five-star price tag.

Final Thoughts: Bucket List Hotels in Italy With Iconic Views – Without the Luxury Price Tag

From gazing out at the Trevi Fountain at sunrise to sipping a spritz beside Lake Como, these 10 affordable hotels prove you don’t need a five-star budget for a five-star view. Whether you’re dreaming of the Colosseum, Florence’s Duomo, or the sparkling shores of Lake Garda, each of these stays offers a front-row seat to Italy’s most famous sights- without the hefty price tag.

💬 Which view would you choose first? Let me know in the comments or share this guide with someone planning their next Italian escape 🇮🇹✨

And don’t forget to bookmark this list- because these hotels sell out fast, especially in the shoulder season when prices are at their best!

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The 10 Best Affordable Destinations in Italy

Wondering where to go in Italy for cheap without missing out on stunning scenery, delicious food, and authentic experiences?

You’re in the right place. Italy might have a reputation for luxury, but it’s also packed with incredible destinations perfect for travellers looking to explore Italy on a budget.

From sun-soaked southern towns to vibrant cities rich in history, there are plenty of cheap Italy destinations that offer amazing value for money.

In this guide, we’re sharing the top 10 places for cheap Italy breaks, including flight costs from the UK, affordable accommodation, easy airport transfers, and average food prices—so you can plan your Italy itinerary without breaking the bank.

Just a quick note before we begin- this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission. This helps us to continue finding and publishing the best deals and travel tips.

1. Bari, Puglia

Why Go: Beautiful old town, Adriatic beaches, and affordable prices.

Flights from the UK: Ryanair and Wizz Air fly from London and Edinburgh, for as little as £20-£50 return off-peak.

Transfers: A 20-minute train from Bari airport to the city centre costs around €5.

Accommodation: Budget B&Bs from €40/night; apartments around €60.

Food: Street food like panzerotti and focaccia Barese starts at €2-€4; meals at trattorias from €10-€12.

2. Tropea, calabria

Why Go: Undiscovered beaches, dramatic cliffs, and laid-back southern charm.

Flights from the UK: Ryanair flies direct from London Stansted to Lamezia Terme with return fares from £30-£70.

Transfers: Car hire is ideal here; rentals start around €20/day, however there are frequent trains from the airport, and a day trip to Sicily is possible too.

Accommodation: Guesthouses from €35/night; local hotels around €50.

Food: Calabrian cuisine is hearty and cheap—pizza or pasta dishes for under €10.

3. Reggio Calabria, Calabria

Why Go: Ancient ruins, the famous Riace bronzes, and sea views across to Sicily. Take the 30 minute foot ferry over to Sicily and explore more.

Flights: Fly direct from London Stansted- flights are often available for under £30 return!

Transfers: Local buses and trains from airport to city centre from €1.50.

Accommodation: Local hotels and Airbnbs from €30-€50/night.

4. Catania, Sicily

Why Go: Mount Etna views, vibrant markets, and access to beaches and baroque towns.

Flights: Direct budget flights from London and other UK airports from £30 return.

Transfers: The Alibus from the airport to city centre is €4.

Accommodation: Budget hostels from €20; B&Bs from €35-€50.

Food: Try local pasta alla Norma or arancini for under €8.

5. Naples

Why Go: The birthplace of pizza, ancient ruins, and gateway to the Amalfi Coast (on a budget).

Flights: Budget flights start from £25 return from many UK cities.

Transfers: Airport shuttle or local bus to city centre from €5.

Accommodation: Hostels from €15; guesthouses around €40.

Food: Pizza for €5-€8; pastries like sfogliatella from €1.50.

6. Bologna, Emilia-Romagna

Why Go: Home of ragu, porticoed streets, and a great base for day trips.

Flights: Ryanair offers return flights from £25-£50.

Transfers: Aerobus to city centre for €6.

Accommodation: Budget hotels and Airbnbs from €40-€60/night.

Food: Tortellini and tagliatelle for €8-€12; aperitivo from €6 including a drink.

7. Palermo, Sicily

Why Go: Arabic-Norman architecture, street food heaven, and coastal views.

Flights: EasyJet and Ryanair offer returns from £30-£60.

Transfers: Shuttle bus to city centre for €6.

Accommodation: Guesthouses from €30; stylish but affordable boutique hotels from €50.

Food: Grab panelle or sfincione for €2-€3; full meals from €10.

8. Lecce, Puglia

Why Go: “The Florence of the South,” with ornate architecture and a fraction of the crowds.

Flights: Fly to Brindisi or Bari (both within 2 hours of Lecce).

Transfers: Direct train from Brindisi to Lecce for €7.

Accommodation: Boutique B&Bs and Airbnbs from €40/night.

Food: Pasticiotti for €1; fresh orecchiette dishes from €8.

9. Genoa, Liguria

Why Go: Underrated port city with colourful old towns and nearby coastal gems like Cinque Terre.

Flights: Return flights from £28-£80 depending on the season.

Transfers: Local bus to city centre for €6 or cheaper with the AMT day ticket.

Accommodation: Hostels from €20; hotels from €45.

Food: Focaccia heaven—slice for €1.50; pesto pasta under €10.

10. Trieste, Friuli Venezia Giulia

Why Go: Coastal elegance, Austro-Hungarian history, and budget-friendly prices.

Flights: Fly into Trieste or nearby Venice Treviso with low-cost carriers.

Transfers: Bus or train to Trieste for €5-€10.

Accommodation: Clean, budget rooms from €35; apartments from €50.

Food: Coffee culture and hearty meat or seafood dishes under €12.

Budget Tips for Travelling Italy Cheaply:

Travel off-season: March to May or late September–November offer lower prices and pleasant weather.

Book trains early: Use Trenitalia or Italo for advance fares from €9.90.

Eat like a local: Skip tourist traps and opt for bakeries, street food, and daily specials.

Stay centrally: Save on transport by staying within walking distance of main sights.

Final Thoughts

Italy is more than just Rome, Venice, and Florence. Some of the most authentic—and affordable—experiences lie off the usual tourist trail.

With budget flights, cheap eats, and beautiful sights, these 10 destinations prove that you can experience la dolce vita without spending a fortune.

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Hacks on How To Explore Italy for Less! Our £100 Trip

At Easter this year, we spent 4 days in Italy as a family of 6 and paid just £100 per person!

What did this include?

Return flights from Manchester
3 Nights Accommodation in Italy (1 night in Turin and 2 nights in Pescheria Del Garda)
All train fares and taxi's within Italy (and there were quite a few!)
Local City Taxes

Where did we visit?

Turin
Milan
Lake Garda
Verona

This is our 5th budget trip to Italy over the last few years as a family. Our longest being a 16 night trip around Italy by train which I still need to write up. This was just a mini break to get our Italy fix, but at this price we couldn't pass it up!

In this trip report, I'll tell you everything about our short break and give you tips on how to create your own holiday to Italy on a budget.

About Us

Bit of Background as It's Relevant to the Pricing

Age's of Children

So as a family we are actually now classed as 3 adults and 3 children as my eldest child turned 18 recently. The children's ages at the time of this trip were 14, 12 and 8. The pricing is therefore based on this.

Choices of Accommodation

As a large family, staying in hotels often means needing to pay for 2 rooms which gets costly. We've therefore learnt over the years to find different types of accommodation which are not only more budget friendly, but also give us far more space to spread out too.

Economies of Scale

But its not all bad, as a family of 6 we can also benefit from 'economies of scale', so when we do rent an apartment or take a taxi transfer for instance, that cost is split between 6, often makes our trips cheaper per person than a smaller family.

How to Plan a Budget Trip to Italy

Find Cheap Flights to Italy

Scanning for Low Flight Prices

Before we even decide we are going anywhere, I regularly scan for cheap flights to see if there are any bargain deals to be had using the flight search tool on our own website that is powered by Skyscanner.

I usually input 'Italy' in to the 'To' box rather than a specific city so I can see the cheapest destinations.

Once the results are produced, I then refine the search to check by the whole month by selecting 'Flexible Dates' and searching again.

From there it will show the cheapest cities to visit that month

You can then select a city and have a play around selecting outbound and return combinations

Getting Flights When They're at Their Cheapest

I must admit most the time we have no plans to go anywhere and purely decide to take a break due to finding a deal that we don't want to pass up. So in the most part, our holidays away are never booked more than 6-8 weeks beforehand.

Typically flights are at their cheapest when they are first released, which is usually around 9 months before departure. Budget airlines (which are our 'go to') release their Summer and Winter schedules in one big drop which are often too far in advance for us.

However, these lower prices may only be cheap for a matter of an hour or so before the prices rise substantially and stay high for the next few months. Prices then start to drop again around 2 months before departure when the airline realises that the plane will be flying with a lot of empty seats!

The Optimum Time to Book

This is different from booking totally last minute, say a few days or even a week before, when airlines know that their will be people desperate to book for a particular date and they hike the prices to their highest yet to capitalise.

We have found that the optimum time to book a last minute break is roughly 4-6 weeks before departure to get the best price.

Italy Travel Planning Template — Get our Italy Budget & Travel Itinerary Planner now!

What we Booked

So for the flights, we booked on 8th March and the departure date was 7th April. At the time EasyJet had some amazing prices for Italy with seats priced at just £1.99 per person, I literally couldn't believe my eyes when I saw them pop up on the site as they weren't running any specific promotions on their website.

Of course for adults, the flights still attracted the £13 Air Passenger Duty per person, making them £14.99 each. So in total 3 adult flights and 3 children's flights from Manchester to Turin, we paid just £50.94 in total- £8.49 per person!!

The price to return flight from Turin was substantially more, which is usually the case when you find a cheap outbound flight (eye roll!). However, as we like to travel to a few places when in Italy, its rare that we will return from the same airport we fly in to anyway.

Once we had found our cheap outbound flight, I then did a full search of all the airports in Italy for the day we wanted to return home. I found that flights from Verona, this time with Ryanair, were the cheapest, coming out at £168.24 for 3 adults and 3 children- just £28.04 per person.

The Total Cost and Route

The total price therefore for the return flights was £36.53 per person- not bad for a school holiday break!

So this was our route set, we were flying in to Turin on 7th April and going home from Verona on 11th April. I then just needed to figure out the bits in between.

Turin to Verona Map — Our Route Turin to Verona

Pre-Booking Seats on the Plane

Now our children are older, all are capable of sitting on their own, we never reserve seats for European flights and take our chances. This keeps the costs down substantially.

EasyJet allow you to check in 30 days beforehand and by making sure we do so, we've never been split up despite not paying for seats and I think we've taken at least 20-30 EasyJet flights over the years with the kids.

Ryanair are slightly different, in that children age 12 and under are allocated a free pre-booked seat along with 1 parent. We have one child that is still under 12, so on our return flight our youngest child was allocated a seat with myself as soon as we purchased our tickets. Check in opens 24 hours beforehand for everyone else. The rest of the party were all split up over 4 rows that were next to each other, which was completely fine as it's only a short flight from Manchester.

Taking Hold Luggage to Italy

In terms of taking luggage, we just don't, it's that simple. Hold luggage would have been more than the actual flights and really for a 4 day trip do you really need any more than a backpack? Years ago I would have taken 2-3 cases and packed everything but the kitchen sink but as I've travelled more frequently I've learned to be ruthless and just pack what we need.

Plus when you're travelling from place-to-place by train, its far more practical (and safety conscious) to each have everything just a backpack so that everyone can manage their own and you can keep your stuff with you at all time.

Obviously, my children are older now and with little ones, this probably isn't as practical, but my youngest manages her back pack fine and if it does get too heavy, its not much more for another adult to carry.

When we did our 16 day trip round Italy, we inevitably needed to take hold luggage, but we stuck to the one backpack each and just took one large suitcase between the six of us so I'm not saying we never travel with suitcases but if we can avoid it, we do.

Packing Tips for Italy

Buy toiletries at the airport

Or pre-order them to collect at boots after security. 100ml bottles and miniatures are no good for a family of 6 anyway, so its far more practical (and cheaper) for us to buy full sized versions online and collect them before departing.

Purchase a bag at the airport

we have a few cloth re-usable Boots bags that we have picked up at the airport on previous visits. You are allowed one bag of items purchased at the airport per person as part of your allowance (yes even with the budget airline carriers). Quite often we'll use this bag to put in a few other bits if we're struggling to get everything in our backpacks and put the toiletries or meal deal purchased at the airport on top. We have done this for years and no one has ever checked what's in the bags. On the way home if we don't have space in backpacks, we'll grab a drink and ask to buy a bag at the airport abroad (don't try using the Boots back home as most airports abroad don't have a Boots!)

Use Vaccuum Bags

We use travel vacuum bags for all our clothes. These come with a hand held pump, so when you're re-packing abroad, you can still get the air out without a hoover. We have used these on nearly every trip over the last 3 years and they are the best purchase I've ever made. The difference in what you can get in a backpack, when using one of these is incredible. For more info on these click here

Use the Appropriate Sized Bag

We make sure we have the correct sized bags- the dimensions for EasyJet and Ryanair are slightly different, in that EasyJet offers a slightly larger allowance. I make sure our bags fit the Ryanair criteria, so that I'm confident I can use them on every flight. I made the investment a few years back and we have had our moneys worth on our various travellers. Get the bag here

Make a list and Stick to it!

Write what you're going to wear each day, obviously take one or two spare items in case of spillages. Take items that can be mixed and matched and just take your most comfortable shoes that you can wear with any outfit- wear these to go in to give you maximum space in your bag.

Take Magic Leaves!

These have been used on every trip we've ever done in Italy. I usually just take 3-4 sheets out of the packet and pop them in a food bag in my luggage to save space. They are great for hand washing (use half of one) or you can you can use them in a washing machine. By takin these, we can minimise what we take and wash essentials mid way through our break. Find these here

Choose your Accommodation Wisely

Following on from the point above, we try to choose accommodation which provides bedding, towels and a washing machine. Before I went to holiday parks in Europe, I didn't even know it was a thing to not supply bedding! By having a washing machine, we take the minimum underwear, pjs and basics and wash/dry them every few days to use again.

Our Itinerary for Italy

Day One: Turin

From Turin Airport to the City Centre

After touching down in Turin (Caselle Airport) we breezed through security, making it from the plane doors to arrivals in just 15 minutes. Getting to the city centre from the airport was a piece of cake. Since it's a relatively small airport, finding our way was simple. We followed the signs in the arrivals for the train, and voila! The station (Torino Aeroporto di Caselle) was right across from the airport exit, with trains departing every 30 minutes.

We purchased our tickets online from trainline.com whilst stood on the platform for just £3.12 each—no need to queue at ticket machines, change the language on the machine or validate tickets. The 25-minute journey took us into the heart of Turin (Turino Porta Nuova), where a quick check of Google Maps led us to our apartment, just a 10-minute walk from the station. Easy-peasy!

Our Apartment in Turin

The apartment we found on our website and it cost just £71.84 (£11.97pp) for the night. Our stay for the night- Casa Carlina was located behind a tall door which opened up in to a whole series of apartments round a courtyard, it was very deceptive from the street and would never have know what was there.

The host kept in contact with us before our trip and gave us easy video instructions via WhatsApp on how to obtain the key and gain access.

The apartment slept 6 people comprising of 2 double rooms and a double sofa bed in the living room. We found it to be really well equipped with everything you could possibly need for a stay of any length.

Find the accommodation here (at the time of writing the accommodation is currently not accepting new bookings but click here for other accommodation in Turin

Food for the Night

Once settled in we looked round the local area for a takeaway whilst the teens had a shower. We found a little gem round the corner called Pizzeria Assaje that whipped us up a feast of authentic Italian Pizzas, Arancini balls (my favourite- basically a ball of risotto rice with other fillings mixed in such as cheese and meat, then bread crumbed and deep fried ), Bucatini balls (basically the same as the Arancini Balls but with tube like spaghetti instead of rice) and 2 types of chips.

We sat and had a wine outside with the other diners whilst the staff cooked our pizzas, total bliss after a long travel day.

The total coming in at £44 for the food which was amazing for the quality and amount we got. I can't even tell you how happy I was with the cloth bag they gave us it all in- a special size bag to fit pizza boxes, that obviously came home with me!

After our feast we got an early night, tired from today's travels.

Day 2: Turin to Lake Garda Via Milan

Breakfast

We rose early, packed our belongings, and headed towards the City Centre, just 500 meters away. There, we indulged in a breakfast of traditional Italian pastries and coffee, while the kids savoured homemade milkshakes with cake and fruit salads.

With the temperature already reaching 20 degrees it was beautiful to sit out and enjoy the sun, something we hadn't seen in the UK this Easter. The breakfast was approximately £34 for us all (£5.66 each)

The morning was spent exploring Turin before making our way to the train station around noon to continue our journey. Opting not to book trains in advance, we preferred to take a more relaxed approach.

Our next destination, Pescheria Del Garda, required a train change in Milan. Although purchasing two separate tickets made no difference in price, we decided to split the journey and spend a few hours exploring Milan before catching another train to Lake Garda.

Types of Trains in Italy

In Italy, there are premium high speed train services offering a high standard of cleanliness, and guaranteed seating, but they come at a higher price. For example, the premium train from Turin to Milan would have cost us £189 for all six of us and taken just 59 minutes. Instead, we chose the regional train, which took 1 hour and 56 minutes but cost only £64.79 for our group (£10.80 each).

In the past we have booked in advance and managed to get the premium trains for a similar price, but as this was a last minute budget trip we sacrificed price over comfort. To be honest the regional trains were ok, we got seats and power sockets and it was clean plus the kids welcomed the slightly longer journey to chill on their gadgets out of the heat.

Lunch in Milan

Upon arrival in Milan around 2pm, we opted to grab lunch. We had plans to indulge in pizza and pasta at our favourite restaurant in Pescheria del Garda later that evening, so we decided to give in and treat the kids to McDonald's to keep them satisfied and save on costs (plus, they'd already spotted Hello Kitty Happy Meals!). The cost was pretty comparable to the UK, paying £37 for 4 adult meals and 2 happy meals (£6.17pp)

Milan to Pescheria Del Garda

Once refreshed, we walked around the area surrounding Milano Centrale Station. I must admit on our last visit we didn't really rate Milan as a city. We have visited the Duomo and Emanuelle Galleria only 12 months previous and the kids were desperate to get to Lake Garda where there is much more there for them to do. We cut Milan short and took the 4pm train to Pescheria Del Garda. Again, we opted for the regional train service to save money, which took 1hr 30 and cost £54.47 (£9.07pp)

All trains we used to the Trainline app to book once within the station. We arrived in Pescheria Del Garda around 5.30pm and walked for 15 minutes to reach our home for the next two nights.

Pescheria Del Garda

Back in August 2022, we spent a week at Butterfly Camping in Pescheria del Garda, using it as a base for exploring the area. It's an ideal spot, with the train station just a 15-minute walk away, offering connections to Verona, Venice, and Milan, allowing for easy exploration of multiple destinations in one trip.

Camp Facilities

The campground is also conveniently located just a 10-minute stroll from Pescheria del Garda Town. It boasts two outdoor pools, slides, entertainment for younger children, sports courts, an onsite shop, bar and restaurant, bike and scooter hire, and direct access to the lake. While the facilities are basic, if you enjoy holiday camps in the UK, you'll find plenty to love about what they offer in Italy.

Unfortunately, the pool wasn't open until May when the weather is at a more steady temperature, the kids still loved the site all the same.

Our Accommodation

We booked the caravan with the camp site direct, opting for the 3 bed deluxe van, paying just £108 for the two nights (£18pp) which included towels and bedding. Again the van was basic but very clean and we spend most the time out on the deck or exploring the area.

Search for Accommodation at Butterfly Camping

In the area there is also Gardaland, a fantastic theme park which also features attractions such as a Legoland Splash Park, Peppa Pig Land and a Sea Life Centre. Tickets are available to purchase here.

Once settled in we had drinks in the bar before heading off to our favourite restaurant in the town- a floating restaurant with the most incredible ambient backdrop. The meals are very reasonably priced and the total cost for 6 meals plus 2 drinks each was £82 £13.66pp)

Day 3: Pescheria Del Garda

Day 3 was a laid-back affair with nothing too eventful to mention. We spent the entire day at Lake Garda, beginning with breakfast on our deck before strolling along the shore, exploring the local shops and church and feeding the ducks.

After lunch in town, we treated ourselves to the best gelato from a nearby shop before returning to the campsite to freshen up and unwind.

For dinner, we dined at the onsite restaurant while the kids enjoyed playing in the park and around the campground.

Day 4: Pescheria Del Garda to Verona

A Complete Wash Out!

Day 4 turned out to be a bit of a washout, quite literally. Originally, we planned to check out of Butterfly Camping at 10 am and spend the day exploring Verona before catching our 9 pm flight. However, we had seen the storm forecast the day before and had a chat with the campground staff in reception to see if they would let us stay longer. They were incredibly accommodating and allowed us to keep the van until 5 pm at no extra cost. Unfortunately, the rain poured relentlessly for a solid 12 hours, accompanied by thunder that seemed to go on forever. We were relieved not to have to venture out in such dismal weather.

Train to Verona

Once the rain finally subsided, we made our way to the train station and caught a train to Verona mid-afternoon, the journey just taking 16 minutes which set us back £20.35 (£3.40 per person). After a stroll around Verona, we opted for a taxi to the airport, which cost us £25.76 (£4.29 per person) as it turned out to be cheaper than the airport shuttle bus.

Of course, the turn of events was disappointing, considering our plans to visit the arena and Romeo & Juliet's Balcony. However, we had explored these attractions before, and given the dreadful weather conditions, we preferred the comfort and security of staying in Pescheria del Garda, where we could seek shelter if necessary.

We hope you've enjoyed reading our blog! Stay tuned for more tales from our Italian adventures in the future. Grazie for following along, check out some of our others!

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