Italy Travel Guide: Train Routes, Itineraries & Costs

Italy is one of the best countries in Europe for building unforgettable multi-stop trips without needing to hire a car. From scenic train journeys through the Alps to colourful coastal towns in the south, it’s a destination that works beautifully for families, couples and solo travellers alike. 

Over the past few years, we’ve explored Italy extensively using trains, ferries and public transport and created budget-friendly itineraries that are easy to replicate. 

This Italy travel guide brings together the best Italy train routes, multi-city itineraries, budget travel tips and family-friendly holidays to help you plan the perfect trip.

Whether you’re planning a multi-city train adventure, a family campsite holiday, a southern Italy escape or even an Extreme Day Trip, this guide brings together all of our Italy travel resources in one place. 

🚆 Multi-Stop Italy Train Itineraries

Italy’s rail network makes it incredibly easy to explore multiple cities in one trip. These itineraries are perfect if you want to see more of Italy without driving. 

Hiring a boat in Lake Garda

 

 

 

 

 

train itinearies in Italy

🌊 Southern Italy & Calabria Guides

Southern Italy offers dramatic coastlines, beautiful beaches and far fewer crowds than the north, often at a fraction of the price. 

Perfect for travellers looking for hidden gems and affordable coastal escapes. 

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

👨‍👩‍👧 Italy for Families

Italy is one of Europe’s most family-friendly destinations. These guides help make travelling with children simple and stress-free. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How to Do Eurocamp Without a Car: The Ultimate Guide
eurocamps vs hotels where to stay

Ideal for summer holidays, school breaks and first-time Italy trips with kids. 

💰 Budget Italy Travel

Italy doesn’t have to be expensive. These guides show you how to keep costs down while still seeing the best of the country. 

 

 

 

 

 

Great for travellers looking to maximise value without sacrificing experience. 

Italy on a Budget as a Large Family: Our £100 Trip itineary - Lake Garda

Naples Travel Guides (Itinerary, Transport and Day Trips)

Looking for things to do in Naples? These guides cover everything you need to plan your trip, including a 3 day itinerary, transport tips, day trips and safety advice. 

👉 3 Days in Naples: Our Itinerary (with Pompeii and Sorrento + Real Costs) 

👉 Pompeii from Naples: Exactly How to Do It 

👉 Naples to Sorrento: Train vs Ferry (Costs, Times and Tips) 

👉 How to Get Around Naples (Metro, Trains, Buses & Airport Transfers) 

👉 Is Naples Safe for Tourists? Where to Stay, Areas to Avoid & Honest Advice

👉 Best Areas to Stay in Naples: For Families, Transport & First-Timers 

 

lemon tree decorations Sorrento Italy

⚡ Extreme Day Trips to Italy

These Extreme Day Trips prove you can still experience Italy even if you’ve only got a day.

Rome in One Day: Our Extreme Day Trip to Italy

A full day in Rome might sound ambitious, but this itinerary shows exactly how to make it work, from flights to what you can realistically see.

Lake Garda in 24 Hours: Our Extreme Day Trip Itinerary

Not the easiest day trip, but definitely doable. This guide shows how to visit Lake Garda via Verona Airport, explore Sirmione and reach Peschiera del Garda in around 24 hours.

Perfect for spontaneous getaways, quick trips and ticking off those bucket list destinations without needing a full week.

🚉 Italy Transport & Planning Guides

Getting around Italy is easier than most people expect. These guides help you plan smooth journeys. 

📌 Planning Your Own Italy Trip? 

Browse the guides above and start building an itinerary that suits your travel style. Whether you’re planning a multi-city rail adventure, a relaxing campsite holiday, or a quick Extreme Day Trip, Italy truly offers something for everyone. 

3 Days in Naples: Our Itinerary (with Pompeii, Sorrento & Real Costs)

If you’re planning a trip to Naples and wondering how much you can realistically fit in, this is exactly what we did as a family of six, and more importantly, what we changed once we got there. 

We originally had plans to visit the Amalfi Coast as well, but after arriving late, seeing how much there was to do and just getting a feel for the city, we quickly realised we didn’t want to rush it. Instead, we slowed things down, swapped a few plans around, and ended up with a trip that felt much more enjoyable (and far less exhausting). 

This is our honest, real itinerary, including what worked, what didn’t, and everything in between. 

Quick note before we begin. This blog may contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them. It helps keep Build a Break running and allows us to keep sharing budget travel guides like this one.

Watch the Video

Before we get into the day-by-day plans, if you’re wondering how to actually get around Naples, I’ve put together a full guide covering trains, metro, the funicular and airport transfers. We found it much easier than expected once we got our heads around it, and it made a huge difference to how smoothly the trip ran. 

👉 Read: How to Get Around Naples (Metro, Trains, Buses & Airport Transfers Explained) 

If you’re deciding where to stay, I’ve broken down the best areas in Naples here.  

3 day Naples Itinerary

💷 What we paid (real costs)

Flights

We travelled as a family of 6 and kept this trip as budget-friendly as possible, including flying hand luggage only. 

Our flights from Manchester to Naples came in at £527.88 total, which worked out at just £87.98 per person. These were booked with Ryanair.

We didn’t add any extras like seats or hold luggage. Instead, we packed everything into backpacks using vacuum bags. It made travelling between trains and stations so much easier too (I've linked the exact same ones we use).

Accommodation

For accommodation, we stayed in the Chiaia area of Naples, which turned out to be a really good base for everything we wanted to do. Accommodation name Amedeo Suites.

We paid: 

€701 upfront via Booking.com (£600) 

Plus €100 city tax in cash (£85) 

Total accommodation: £685 for 4 nights 

 That’s £114 per person 

Airport Transfers

Because we landed late (10:15pm), we decided to pre-book a private transfer rather than figure out public transport in the dark. 

This cost us £48 total for 6 people, which worked out at around £8 each. We booked via Holiday Extras where our readers get a discount on transfers, airport parking  & airport lounges here (discount automatically applied)

The airport bus (Alibus) is €5 per person, so for a family of 6 you’re already at around €30 (approx £25), and that’s before you then need to get from the station to your accommodation. 

For the small difference, the private transfer was far easier, especially arriving at night. 

On the way back we took the Alibus (explained later) and paid around £26 in total with train to the main station too.

In total transfers cost us £74 (£12pp).

Overall Total

So overall, flights, 4 nights accommodation and transfers came in at £214pp.

This was already a budget trip, but would have probably been cheaper, had we not been travelling over Easter school holidays.

accommodation in Chania Naples
what to do in Naples with kids
bakery in Napoli

If you’re wondering what Naples is actually like as a destination, including where to stay and whether it feels safe, I’ve shared our honest thoughts here: 

👉 Is Naples Safe for Tourists? Where to Stay, Areas to Avoid & Honest Advice 

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✈️ Day 1 – Arrival in Naples

We landed in Naples at 10:15pm, so this was very much a practical arrival evening. 

By the time we got through the airport and into our transfer, it was late. We headed straight to the apartment, unpacked the essentials, had quick showers and went straight to bed. 

🏛️ Day 2 – Pompeii

The following morning, we kept things slow after the late arrival. We visited the local shop for some essential bits and breakfast, then headed out around 11am. 

From our apartment on Via del Parco Margherita, one of the biggest advantages was how easy it was to get around. Just a two-minute walk (literally 50m) brought us to Napoli Piazza Amedeo Station, which meant no metro or taxis needed. 

We took the local train to Napoli Garibaldi Station, which took around 15 minutes and cost €1.50 per person. Tickets were easy to buy at the station using card, just remember to validate them before boarding. 

pompeii with kids - how to get there from Naples
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At Garibaldi, we followed signs to the Circumvesuviana train (also labelled Linee Vesuviane / EAV). This is where Naples starts to feel very different to northern Italy and definitely a bit chaotic, very busy, but it works. 

We bought tickets at the machines for €3.30 each way and took the train towards Sorrento, getting off at Pompei Scavi Villa dei Misteri, which is just a couple of minutes from the entrance. 

The journey took around 35 minutes, but it wasn’t the most comfortable. The train was packed, we stood both ways, and it’s very much a commuter train rather than anything tourist-focused. 

Pompeii itself is something you really can’t underestimate. It’s huge. Much bigger than you expect, and far more tiring to walk than it looks on paper. 

Entry is €20 for adults, while under 18s are free (you may need ID for older teens). We opted for the express ticket, which was more than enough for us, and we still didn’t get close to seeing everything. 

Definitely wear comfortable shoes, bring water and snacks, and use the toilets at the entrance before going in as the queues inside were long. 

By the time we got back to Naples around 7pm, we were completely exhausted. Any plans for going out in the evening disappeared instantly, and we ended up having tea in the apartment instead. 

Overall, we paid €88.80 (£77.50) for return transport and entry tickets.

See our guide on Pompeii for more details on getting there and entrance tickets

🍕 Day 3 – Naples (our favourite day)

After how full-on Pompeii was, this day felt like a complete reset. We should have headed to Procida on Day 3, but poor weather and our desire to experience Naples instead, meant we decided to drop it and spend the whole day exploring the city.

We started the morning with the funicular, which was just a one-minute walk from our apartment at Parco Margherita Funicular station (40m walk). It cost €1.30pp and only takes about five minutes, but the views at the top are incredible. 

We got off at Piazza Vanvitelli and walked around 10–15 minutes to Castel Sant’Elmo, which easily had some of the best views over Naples.

From there, we took Metro Line 1 down to Toledo Metro Station and just started exploring on foot (€1.50pp)

Instead of trying to tick off landmarks, we wandered between the Spanish Quarter Naples and Spaccanapoli, stopping wherever looked good. 

We found the Busto di Pulcinella (where you rub its nose for luck), came across the street filled with books stalls and shops, dipped in and out of a few churches, and just explored at our own pace. 

There were coffee stops, desserts, and loads of street food along the way, it basically turned into our own food tour without even trying. 

We finished at a small local spot near the Pulcinella statue where you can get a whole pizza and a drink for €2.50, which still feels unreal writing it down. 

At one point, €39 got us three large Aperol spritz, four huge snacks, two pizzas and four soft drinks, incredible value. This is where Naples really stands out. I'm sure this is the cheapest Italian city we've visited so far.

This ended up being our favourite day of the trip. 

Total spend on transport €5.80 (£5.06)

Food and drinks, I lost count, but it can't have been more than £20pp and we came back to the apartment absolutely stuffed.

street in spaccanopoli Naples

🌊 Day 4 – Sorrento

Originally, this day was meant to be Amalfi Coast, but the weather wasn’t great (again!) and the thought of a choppy ferry with tired kids didn’t feel worth it. We would rather see it in all it's glory, in the sunshine.

Luckily, we hadn't booked any ferries, so we swapped to Sorrento, and it was absolutely the right decision. 

We headed back to Napoli Garibaldi Station (€3pp return) and took the Circumvesuviana Railway towards Sorrento. This is the same train you take to Pompeii, you just stay on it until the final stop.

We caught the 11:08 train and arrived at Sorrento Train Station at 12:20. Return tickets cost €46 total for five of us (around £40) - our eldest daughter decided to sit this day out.

The train was even busier than the day before, probably as it was Good Friday. But it’s cheap, frequent and flexible, which suited us perfectly. 

Sorrento itself felt completely different to Naples. Cleaner, calmer and much more relaxed. 

We spent the day wandering, stopping for coffee and gelato, and eventually made our way down to Marina Grande Sorrento. 

This was the highlight with its colourful houses, sea views and a much slower pace. 

We stopped for a few hours by the sea to enjoy a meal at a restaurant down there. This was probably our most expensive day with the meal and tip coming in at €160.

We also cheated and got a taxi back up the hill to the train station which cost €25.

Even so, if we had gone to Amalfi, we would have spent around €120 on the ferry alone, so it didn't feel too expensive.

The total spend to our day to Sorrento was around £215, but this could have been much cheaper if we hadn't splashed out on the meal we had.

If you’re planning a trip to Sorrento, I’ve broken down exactly how to get there from Naples (including train vs ferry, costs and what we did) here: Naples to Sorrento: Train vs Ferry (Costs, Times and Tips)

boats at Marina Grande Sorrento
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🚌 Day 5 – Heading home

On our final morning, we checked out and took the local train back to Napoli Garibaldi Station (€1.50 per person) around lunchtime.

From there, we walked straight outside to catch the Alibus from Napoli Centrale to Naples International Airport. 

Tickets are €5 per person, although interestingly the driver told us to only pay for four of us, something we found happened quite a lot in Italy with larger families. 

The journey took around 20 minutes and was really straightforward. 

💭 What we thought about Naples

We LOVED it! I was afraid I wouldn't after reading lots of reviews online and also as we've visited most cities in Italy now. But it's definitely up there in my top 3.

Naples isn’t polished, and it’s definitely not the easiest city at times. The transport can feel chaotic, things don’t always run smoothly, and it’s very different to northern Italy. 

But that’s exactly what makes it so good. If you love places like Palermo and Catania, Naples has a similar feel.

Slowing things down, not overplanning, and being willing to change things last minute made this trip what it was. 

And while we didn’t make it to the Amalfi Coast this time, it just gives us a reason to come back, and we absolutely will. 

Maradona statue in Naples

 If Italy is on your list (or you’re already planning your next trip), you can find all of our Italy itineraries and guides here: 

👉 See all our Italy blogs

 

✈️ Want us to find trips like this for you? 

Our members-only Build a Break Travel Club receives hand-picked flight & hotel deals, Extreme Day Trips and last-minute flights every week, all from UK and Ireland airports. 

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Pompeii from Naples: Exactly How to Do It (Train, Tickets and Tips) 

If you’re visiting Naples, a trip to Pompeii is one of those things you just have to do. 

This is exactly how to get from Naples to Pompeii by train, including which station to use, ticket costs and what the journey is really like.

It’s one of the most unique places we’ve ever visited, but it’s also one of the easiest day trips to get wrong if you don’t plan it properly. 

We did this as a family of six using public transport, and while it’s very doable, there are a few things we wish we’d known beforehand. 

This guide walks you through exactly how to get there, what it costs, and what to expect based on our experience. 

If you’re planning your full trip, you can also read: 

👉 3 Days in Naples: Our Itinerary (with Pompeii and Sorrento + Real Costs)

👉 How to get around Naples -a guide to using the metro, funicular and trains

Or browse all of our Italy guides here: 

👉 See all our Italy blogs

Quick note before we begin. This blog may contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them. It helps keep Build a Break running and allows us to keep sharing budget travel guides like this one.

Watch our 3 Day Itinerary

pompeii with kids - how to get there from Naples

Ticket pricing and what to know

We paid €20 per adult for the Pompeii Express ticket, which covers the main areas of the site and is more than enough for most visitors. Under 18s can enter for free, although you may be asked to show ID, so it’s worth bringing passports for older children.

EU nationals aged 18–25 can get reduced entry for just €2, again with valid ID. Entry is also free for everyone on the first Sunday of each month, but it’s extremely busy, so expect large crowds and queues if you choose to visit then.

Getting from Naples to Pompeii

The easiest and cheapest way to get to Pompeii is using the Circumvesuviana train. 

This is a local commuter train that runs between Naples and Sorrento, stopping at Pompeii along the way. 

Step by step

From where we stayed in Chiaia, we started at Napoli Piazza Amedeo station, which was just a couple of minutes from our apartment. 

From here, we took a local train: 

Napoli Piazza Amedeo → Napoli Garibaldi 

This took around 10 to 15 minutes and cost €1.50 per person. 

Once at Garibaldi, follow signs downstairs for: 

Linee Vesuviane / EAV 

This is where the Circumvesuviana trains depart from. 

We bought our tickets at the station machine using card. There were staff around to assist, and it was really straightforward to use the machines. Once you have your ticket, you just scan it at the barrier to get through. 

We paid €3.30 per person each way, including the kids. 

From there, take the train: 

Napoli Garibaldi → Pompei Scavi Villa dei Misteri 

Direction: Sorrento 

ticket to Pompeii on the circumvesuviana line

The journey takes around 35 minutes. 

Make sure you get off at Pompei Scavi Villa dei Misteri. This is the best stop and only a couple of minutes walk from the entrance. 

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What the train is actually like

This is not a scenic or comfortable train experience. 

It’s a busy commuter train used by both locals and tourists, and it can feel chaotic, especially at busy times. 

We visited in April and it was still very crowded. We stood both ways. 

There are no seat reservations, very little space, and the trains feel quite basic. Displays weren’t working and windows were partially covered. 

One thing to be aware of is that the train pulls into Naples quite far down the platform. When you enter the platform, walk as far down as you can and stand near the line to give yourself the best chance of getting on. 

Both times we used it from Naples, people were left on the platform because the train was completely full. 

That said, it’s cheap, frequent and it gets you exactly where you need to go. 

There were many tourists heading to Sorrento using the train and people did get on with luggage. Some stopped at Pompeii and used the left luggage storage at the station so they could explore before continuing their journey.

train from Naples to Pompeii

Getting back to Naples

This is where we hit a bit of a problem. 

We didn’t buy return tickets in advance, which I would definitely recommend doing. 

When we went to buy tickets for the return journey, both machines were broken and the queue for the ticket desk was huge and very slow moving. 

There is a small shop near the station entrance that also sells tickets, but they only accepted cash when we visited. 

We did eventually get tickets, but it added a lot of unnecessary time and stress to the end of the day. 

One thing we quickly realised in Naples is that cash is still used a lot more than in northern Italy. 

We came across several places that only accepted cash, including ticket kiosks and small shops, so it’s worth bringing some with you. 

Around €100 should be more than enough for most trips. 

Pompeii Train Station
Pompeii Train Station

Pompeii entrance and ticket prices

Pompeii is much bigger than most people expect. 

Entry costs €20 per adult. Under 18s are free, but you may be asked for ID, so it’s worth bringing passports for older children or teens.

They didn't dispute our children's ages, but they did ask for my ID as the person booking. I hadn't brought the original, but they accepted a photo on my phone (yes I know you are always meant to carry your passports in Italy).

We chose the Express ticket and didn’t add an audio guide or tour. The Express ticket covers the ancient city of Pompeii and ancient villas - such a large area to explore. 

Main areas were well sign posted on the history of what you were looking at. Anything else we just googled as went round.

Audio guides are available for around €8 if you want more detail. 

Even without one, we spent hours exploring and still didn’t see everything. 

ticket prices for Pompeii and map
Map of Pompeii with Ticket Prices
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How long you need

We left Naples around 11am and didn’t get back until around 7pm. 

Once you factor in travel, queues and walking around the site, this is easily a full day. 

It’s also a lot more tiring than you might expect. There’s very little shade, uneven ground and a lot of walking. 

If you’re planning your full trip, I’ve shared exactly how we fitted Pompeii into our 3 day Naples itinerary here: 

👉 3 Days in Naples: Our Itinerary (with Pompeii and Sorrento + Real Costs) 

What to bring (and where we ate)

This is where I’d definitely do things slightly differently next time. 

You need: 

Comfortable shoes 

Water 

Snacks 

There is food available inside, but the queues were really long when we visited. 

We actually chose to eat just outside the main entrance instead, which worked really well. There are a few casual food spots there and it felt much less hectic than eating inside the site. 

For six of us, we paid around £50 for: 

6 drinks 

A large bottle of water 

6 pizza slices 

2 fried Italian snacks 

It was quick, easy and gave us a proper break before heading back, and much better value than eating inside. 

Definitely use the toilets at the entrance before you start exploring. It's a long walk back to the entrance or restaurant area at times.

Next time, I'd probably make up some sandwiches and bring some drinks with me.

Is Pompeii worth it?

Yes, 100 percent. 

It’s one of those places that’s hard to explain until you see it in person. Walking through an entire ancient city that’s been frozen in time is something you won’t experience anywhere else. 

But it’s not a relaxed day. It’s busy, tiring and full on. 

We were back in Naples by around 7pm and completely exhausted, with no energy left for evening plans. 

Pompeii from Naples
view from above Pompeii

Was it easy to do?

Doing Pompeii from Naples is actually really simple once you understand the train system. 

It’s cheap, accessible and completely doable without a tour. 

Just be prepared for crowds, a lot of walking, and a long day. 

If you’re planning your trip,

I’d also recommend reading: 

👉 How to Get Around Naples (Metro, Trains, Buses & Airport Transfers) 

👉 Where to Stay in Naples: The Best Areas and One's to Avoid

 

And for more Italy routes and ideas: 

👉 See all our Italy blogs 

 

If you want trips like this sent straight to you each week, including Naples routes and last minute flights, you can join here: 

👉 Join the Travel Club 

Reggio Calabria Travel Guide: Best Places to Visit in Calabria & Sicily

At the very tip of Italy’s “boot”, Reggio Calabria is one of the most overlooked travel destinations in southern Italy, yet it’s one of the easiest places to explore both Calabria and Sicily in a single trip. 

Thanks to budget flights to Reggio Calabria with Ryanair, this small coastal city has become an increasingly popular gateway to southern Italy. And once you arrive, you’ll quickly realise just how well connected the region is. 

Reggio Calabria sits directly across the Strait of Messina, the narrow stretch of water that separates mainland Italy from Sicily. In fact, ferries run between the two several times per hour, meaning you can be exploring a completely different island in under 30 minutes. 

But Reggio Calabria itself is just the starting point. 

Within a short train or ferry journey you’ll find fishing villages, dramatic coastal towns and beautiful Sicilian cities that can easily be combined into one itinerary. 

During my last two trips to the region, I explored several of these places and quickly realised just how easy it is to build a multi-stop Calabria and Sicily itinerary. 

Map of Calabria and Southern region of Italy and Eastern Sicily

Quick note before we begin  this blog may contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them. It helps keep Build a Break running and allows us to keep sharing budget travel guides like this one. 

In this guide, I’ll share:

  • Where to stay in Reggio Calabria
  • Whether Reggio Calabria is worth visiting
  • How to travel from the airport into the city
  • And five incredible destinations you can visit nearby 

The best part? Southern Italy is significantly cheaper than many of the country’s more famous destinations, meaning this can be a very budget-friendly Italian trip. 

Where Is Reggio Calabria?

Reggio Calabria is located in the Calabria region of southern Italy, right at the very tip of the Italian mainland. 

The city sits along the Strait of Messina, the narrow body of water that separates Italy from the island of Sicily. On a clear day you can actually see the Sicilian coastline from the Reggio Calabria waterfront. 

Because of its location, Reggio Calabria is one of the most convenient places in Italy for exploring both Calabria and Sicily in the same trip. 

The region is also far less visited than northern Italian destinations such as Lake Como, Venice or the Amalfi Coast, which means prices for accommodation, food and transport are generally much lower. 

If you’re searching for cheap places to visit in Italy, Calabria is definitely a region worth considering. 

Reggio Calabria Beach front lido promenade and big wheel

The main airport serving the city is Reggio Calabria Airport (REG), which sits just 8km from the city centre. 

From here you can easily travel along the Calabrian coastline or cross the water to Sicily. 

Is Reggio Calabria Worth Visiting?

Many travellers simply pass through Reggio Calabria on their way to other destinations in the region, but the city itself is definitely worth exploring for at least a day. 

Reggio Calabria is known for its beautiful seafront promenade, Lungomare Falcomatà, which is often referred to as “the most beautiful kilometre in Italy”. From here you’ll have stunning views across the water to Sicily, with Mount Etna often visible in the distance. 

The city is also home to one of Italy’s most important archaeological discoveries - the Riace Bronzes, two incredibly well preserved ancient Greek statues that are displayed in the National Archaeological Museum. 

Aside from the historical attractions, Reggio Calabria also has: 

  • A lively restaurant scene
  • Plenty of local cafés and bars
  • Beautiful coastal views
  • Easy transport connections across the region 

However, compared with smaller towns such as Scilla or Tropea, the city itself feels more like a typical Italian coastal city rather than a postcard-perfect village. 

Because of this, I personally prefer using Reggio Calabria as a transport hub and base for exploring the surrounding area, rather than spending my entire trip here. 

How to Get From Reggio Calabria Airport to the City Centre

Reggio Calabria Airport is located just 8km from the city centre, making it one of the easiest Italian airports to travel from. 

The simplest way to reach the city is by using the airport shuttle bus, which departs directly from outside the arrivals terminal. 

The bus journey takes around 15 minutes and costs approximately €2, stopping at Reggio Calabria Centrale train station in the city centre. 

The bus schedule is designed to coincide with flight arrivals, so it’s usually waiting outside when flights land. 

Once you arrive at Reggio Calabria Centrale, you can easily connect to trains heading north along the coast towards towns like Scilla and Tropea, or head to the port to catch a ferry across to Sicily. 

This makes Reggio Calabria one of the easiest places in southern Italy to begin a multi-stop trip. 

bus from Reggio Calabria airport to the port

1. Scilla

Just 23km north of Reggio Calabria, the small fishing town of Scilla is one of the most beautiful places in Calabria and an absolute must-visit if you’re travelling through the region. 

Despite being only 25 minutes by train from Reggio Calabria, Scilla still feels largely undiscovered by international tourists. 

The town is divided into two main areas: 

Marina Grande (the Lido) 
This is the beachfront area, with a long stretch of shingle beach lined with relaxed beach bars and restaurants. 

Chianalea 
Often referred to as the “Little Venice of Calabria”, Chianalea is the historic fishing quarter where colourful houses sit right on the water’s edge. Narrow alleyways lead to tiny seafood restaurants overlooking the sea (see the photo adjacent-just perfect!). 

It’s one of those places where the best thing to do is simply wander, stop for a drink, and enjoy the view. 

Scilla is also home to Castello Ruffo, a dramatic castle perched above the town with incredible views across the Strait of Messina towards Sicily. 

Because of its size, Scilla is perfect for a 1–2 night stay, giving you time to enjoy the beach, explore the historic streets and relax into the slower pace of southern Italy. 

Scilla fishing village Chainlea

👉 You can read my full guide here: 
Calabria, Italy: A Budget Solo Trip to Scilla & Tropea 

How to Get to Scilla from Reggio Calabria Airport

 1. Take the airport bus from arrivals to Reggio Calabria Centrale (€2, 15 minutes)

2.  From there, take the direct train to Scilla 

Journey time: around 25 minutes 
Ticket cost: approximately €2–€3 

Why Stay in Scilla

  • One of the most beautiful towns in Calabria

 

  • Traditional Italian fishing village atmosphere

 

  • Beautiful beaches and coastal views

 

  • Easy train access to Tropea and Reggio Calabria 
Enjoying a wine at the Lido in Scilla, with a view of the Castle- Catello Ruffo di Scilla

2. Tropea

Further north along the coast from Scilla is Tropea, often described as the “Jewel of Calabria”. 

It sits dramatically on a cliff overlooking bright turquoise water. Tropea is widely considered one of the most beautiful towns in southern Italy. 

Because of this, Tropea has a more vibrant atmosphere, especially during the evening when the historic centre fills with people enjoying dinner and gelato. 

The town is also famous for its red onions (Cipolla Rossa di Tropea), which appear on menus across the region. 

If you’re planning to include Tropea in your itinerary, I would recommend staying at least two nights to enjoy both the beaches and the town itself. 

The town is famous for its white sand beaches, particularly the beach below the historic centre where you’ll find the iconic Santa Maria dell’Isola monastery, one of Calabria’s most photographed landmarks. 

Unlike Scilla, Tropea has a larger historic centre with:

  • Boutique shops
  • Lively restaurants
  • Evening bars and cafés
  • Plenty of accommodation options 
Tropea Sea side Water Umbrellas Sunbathing

How to Get to Tropea from Reggio Calabria Airport

1. Take the airport bus to Reggio Calabria Centrale (€2) 

2. From the station, take the direct train to Tropea 

Journey time: around 1 hour 45 minutes 
Ticket cost: approximately €7 

Personally, I stayed in Scilla first and then took a train from Scilla to Tropea which you can read about here.

Alternatively, a taxi from Reggio Calabria airport to Tropea would cost around €120–€140. 

 

Why Stay in Tropea

Stunning beaches and coastline

Beautiful historic centre

Lively restaurants and nightlife

Easy train connections along the coast 

Tropea Beach in Spring

3. Messina

Located just across the water in Sicily, the city of Messina is one of the easiest destinations to visit from Reggio Calabria. 

Despite there being no bridge between mainland Italy and Sicily, the crossing is incredibly quick thanks to regular ferries across the Strait of Messina. 

In fact, you can travel from Reggio Calabria to Sicily in around 30 minutes. 

How to Get from Reggio Calabria to Messina

From Reggio Calabria Airport, take the airport shuttle bus to the port, which takes around 15 minutes and costs approximately €2. 

From here, ferries operated by Liberty Lines run roughly every hour between Reggio Calabria and Messina. 

This makes Messina one of the easiest international-feeling day trips you can take in Italy. 

Another interesting option is to travel via Villa San Giovanni, where trains actually drive directly onto a ferry and cross the strait. This is one of the few remaining train ferry crossings left in Europe. 

👉 You can read my full guide here: 
How to Get Between Italy and Sicily

Is Messina Worth Visiting?

Messina is a larger city compared with many towns in this guide and has more of a typical Italian city feel. 

Reggio Calabria to Messina ferry
Reggio Calabria to Messina ferry

While it may not have the postcard-perfect scenery of places like Tropea or Taormina, it does offer:

Lively nightlife

Plenty of restaurants and shops

Historic landmarks such as Messina Cathedral and its astronomical clock tower 

Messina also works extremely well as a transport hub for exploring Sicily, with direct trains connecting to Palermo, Catania and Taormina. 

If you’re planning a short visit, one day is enough to explore the city before continuing your journey deeper into Sicily. 

Read how I used Messina as a base for my Reggio Calabria to Sicily trip

4. Taormina

Located on the east coast of Sicily, Taormina is one of the most famous and beautiful towns in Italy. It is located high above the coastline with views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea.  

Narrow streets wind through the historic centre, lined with boutique shops, cafés and restaurants overlooking the sea. 

Taormina is also home to the Ancient Greek Theatre, one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in Italy. The theatre is still used for concerts and events today, and the views across the coastline and Mount Etna from here are incredible. 

The main street, Corso Umberto, runs through the heart of the town and is perfect for wandering slowly with a gelato in hand. 

For beach lovers, a cable car connects the town centre to Isola Bella, a small island and beach that is one of Sicily’s most photographed coastal spots. 

Taormina became even more popular after appearing in the Netflix series The White Lotus, which has increased visitor numbers significantly. When I visited in October it was already busy, so during peak summer months it can become very crowded. 

However, the beauty of the town more than makes up for the crowds. 

6 amazing places to discover from Reggio Calabria

How to Get to Taormina from Messina

After testing a few different options, the easiest way to reach Taormina from Messina is by coach. 

The buses depart from Piazza della Repubblica, directly in front of Messina Centrale train station. 

Journey time: around 1 hour 30 minutes 
Ticket cost: approximately €4.30 

Tip: sit on the left-hand side of the bus on the way to Taormina for incredible coastal views. 

The coach drops passengers directly outside Porta Messina, the main entrance to Taormina’s historic centre. 

If you prefer travelling by train, the closest station is Taormina–Giardini Naxos, located below the town. From there you’ll need to take a bus or taxi up the hill. 

Why Stay in Taormina

  • One of the most beautiful towns in Sicily 
  • Views of Mount Etna and the coastline
  • Historic Greek theatre and charming streets
  • Easy access to beaches and Mount Etna tours 

 

Where to eat in Taormina

While it can be visited as a day trip from Messina, I would personally recommend staying at least one night if your itinerary allows. 

5. Cefalù

Located on the northern coast of Sicily, Cefalù is a beautiful seaside town around 70km east of Palermo. 

Compared with larger Sicilian cities, Cefalù has a much more relaxed atmosphere and is known for its combination of historic streets, sandy beaches and dramatic coastal scenery. 

At the heart of the town sits the Cefalù Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics. The cathedral dominates the main square and is one of the most impressive religious buildings in Sicily. 

The historic centre is full of narrow streets lined with cafés, gelaterias and small shops selling local Sicilian products. 

One of the highlights of visiting Cefalù is climbing La Rocca, the huge rocky hill that towers above the town. From the top you’ll get incredible views across the coastline and the rooftops of Cefalù below. 

The town also has one of the best sandy beaches in Sicily, located just a short walk from the historic centre. 

Things to do in Cefalù

How to Get to Cefalù from Messina

Thanks to Sicily’s rail network, travelling from Messina to Cefalù is simple. 

Direct trains run regularly between the two cities. 

Journey time: around 2 hours 
Ticket cost: approximately €12–€15 

The train station in Cefalù is located just a short walk from the historic centre and beach. 

Why Stay in Cefalù

  • One of the most picturesque towns in Sicily 
  • Beautiful sandy beach next to the historic centre 
  • Charming streets and great restaurants 
  • Easy train access from Messina and Palermo 

Cefalù is perfect for either a day trip or a 1–2 night stay if you want to slow down and enjoy Sicily’s coastline. 

how to get to Cefalù from Messina

As you can see, there's such a vast assortment of towns and cities that can be explored very easily by flying in to Reggio Calabria airport, all completely unique and perfect for combining a few of them on an itinerary for 4-7 days. 

Accommodation costs, in all these places is well below what you would pay in the north too, meaning, not only are cheap flights available, but a hotel or apartment is equally as good value, making it the perfect budget break!

Suggested Itineraries from Reggio Calabria

Option 1: 4-Day Calabria Trip

Day 1 – Arrive in Reggio Calabria
Day 2 – Train to Scilla
Day 3 – Train to Tropea
Day 4 – Return to airport

Option 2: Calabria & Sicily Combo (6 Days)

Day 1 – Arrive Reggio Calabria
Day 2 – Explore Scilla
Day 3 – Ferry to Messina
Day 4 – Visit Taormina
Day 5 – Cefalù
Day 6 – Return via Palermo

Planning more of Italy?

Explore our complete Italy Travel Guide with multi-city train routes, family itineraries, budget trips and transport tips all in one place. 

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Calabria, Italy: 4 Day Itinerary for Scilla & Tropea (Budget Trip) 

Travelling solo to Calabria, Italy had been on my mind for a while. 

My family and I have travelled extensively around northern Italy over the past few years covering Milan, Verona, Turin, Lake Garda, Venice, Tuscany, Rome to name a few, but we had never ventured further south than Rome. 

As the travel planner in our family, I’m normally the one booking the flights, planning train routes and navigating us around once we arrive, so how hard could it be to do solo.  

A backpack, a return flight, and two beautiful towns in southern Italy that had been sitting on my “one day” list for months Scilla and Tropea. 

Quick note before we begin  this blog contains affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them. It helps keep Build a Break running and allows us to keep sharing budget travel guides like this one. 

Why Calabria Is One of the Cheapest Places to Visit in Italy

If you're searching for cheap places to visit in Italy, Calabria should absolutely be on your radar. 

While destinations like the Amalfi Coast, Lake Como and Cinque Terre dominate travel lists, they also tend to be some of the most expensive regions in the country. 

Calabria is located in the far south of Italy and offers many of the same things travellers love about those destinations: 

  • dramatic coastal scenery 
  • charming historic towns 
  • beautiful beaches 
  • incredible Italian food 

But at a fraction of the price. 

Scilla Castle view from lift

Watch the Video

Flights can regularly be found for under £50 return, accommodation can start from £25–£50 per night, and local trains between towns like Scilla and Tropea cost just a few euros. 

In fact, my entire 4 day Calabria trip cost just £310 in total, including flights, accommodation and transport. 

If travelling as a couple and splitting accommodation, the same trip would have cost around £180 per person. 

For Italy, that’s incredibly good value. 

Why I Chose Calabria for My First Solo Trip

Because I had travelled in Italy several times before, it felt like the perfect place to take the leap and try travelling solo. 

I already understood how the trains worked, how the stations are laid out and how easy it is to get around without a car. 

But that didn’t mean I wasn’t nervous. My biggest worry was that I might get bored travelling alone. As it turned out, that couldn’t have been further from the truth. 

By the end of the trip I was already planning another solo adventure, which later took me from Calabria to Sicily.

You can read that itinerary here Sicily on a Budget - 4 Day Itinerary

How Much Did My Calabria Solo Trip Cost?

Before diving into the itinerary, here’s the full headline cost breakdown. 

Total trip cost: £310 

This included: 

  • Return flights to Reggio Calabria 
  • 3 nights accommodation 
  • All trains and buses in Italy 
  • Local transport 
  • Lift access in Scilla 

For a solo trip that felt incredibly budget-friendly. 

If travelling as a couple, the cost would have dropped significantly because accommodation was the main expense. 

In fact, this same itinerary would work out at roughly £180 per person for two people. 

Golden Hour at Lido Paradiso, Scilla
beach bar at Lido Scilla Beach

Scilla or Tropea? Why I Decided to Visit Both

When researching Calabria travel, two towns kept appearing over and over again. 

 

Scilla, Calabria

A small fishing village famous for its colourful houses, narrow streets and views of Castello Ruffo di Scilla. 

Tropea 

Often described as one of the most beautiful towns in Italy, known for its dramatic cliff-top views and white sand beaches. 

Both looked incredible. 

And because they’re only just over an hour apart by train, I decided to split the trip between the two. 

At first glance, they reminded me of places like Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast, but without the crowds and eye-watering prices. 

Scilla, Lido beach front promenade sign

How I Booked My Flights to Calabria

I found my flights purely by chance while searching Skyscanner. 

Return flights came in at £28. 

Because I was travelling solo, I only needed a small backpack and didn’t pay for seat selection or luggage. 

This meant the base fare stayed exactly as advertised. 

At the time, Ryanair had launched a route from Manchester to Reggio Calabria, located right at the tip of Italy’s “boot”. 

While routes change frequently, you can often still find cheap flights to: 

  • Reggio Calabria Airport 
  • Lamezia Terme Airport 

Both give easy access to the Calabria coast. 

Search current prices here: 
👉 Flights to Calabria 

getting from Reggio Reggio Calabria Airport to Scilla

Where to Stay in Calabria

When researching accommodation, I had absolutely no idea where to begin.  Most of my previous trips to Italy had focused on northern regions like Lake Garda, Venice  and Tuscany, so Calabria felt like completely new territory.  After a lot of scrolling through Instagram and travel blogs, two towns stood out immediately: 
  • Scilla 
  • Tropea 
Both looked spectacular.  Rather than choosing between them, I decided to split the trip between both towns. 
Tropea beach and castle view from Tropea Centre travel guide on Tropea
Tropea

Accommodation Costs in Calabria

Compared to northern Italy, accommodation prices in Calabria are refreshingly affordable. 

In Scilla, decent apartments often range between £25 and £50 per night. 

I chose an apartment which was around £100 per night which was at the top-end of what was available, but it slept 6 people and had the most incredible view of the castle and Chainlea.

Tropea tends to be slightly more expensive because it attracts more visitors, but it’s still far cheaper than destinations like Lake Como or the Amalfi Coast. 

If you're looking for other affordable places to stay across Italy, I’ve also put together a guide here: 

👉 Where to Stay in Italy: 10 Affordable Hotels with Iconic Views 

Book Hotels in Scilla, Calabria, Italy
Search for hotels in Tropea

My 4 Day Calabria Itinerary

Day 1: Reggio Calabria to Scilla

I landed and realised something important quickly: “the station” is not always right next to the airport. 

Instead of a long walk, there was a local bus waiting outside the terminal. It cost €1.50 and took around 15 minutes to Reggio Calabria Centrale (bus number 28)

From there, I took the train to Scilla. 

  • Ticket cost: €1.70 
  • Journey time: around 20 minutes 

Tip: If you buy a paper train ticket in Italy, validate it before you board. Those little green machines will help you avoid a fine.

Alternatively, a taxi from Reggio Calabria airport to Scilla will set you back around €35.

Arriving in Scilla

Scilla station is easy, and the walk down towards the Lido is lovely. 

My accommodation was up high, so I used the lift near the Lido (small fee totally worth it). The view from the top is one of those “stop and stare” moments. 

The lift costs just 1 euro and they take both cash and card and it will save your legs considerably. Trust me it’s a lovely walk down but in the heat, I wouldn't fancy going back up on foot!

After taking in the views, I headed onwards to my accommodation which was just a further 7 minute walk from the lift.

things to do in Scilla, Calabria

My Accommodation

I’d chosen to rent an apartment for 6 people- Blue Jolie. Totally unnecessary as a solo adventurer but for the cost, space and the main selling point of a large balcony with views directly of the castle I couldn’t resist.

This apartment would be perfect for large families looking to do a trip to Calabria.

That first evening, I wandered Chianalea, the fishing village area often called “Little Venice”. It’s properly charming, cobbled, and calm, with restaurants right by the water. 

I ended up eating on the Lido instead because it was golden hour and the castle view won. 

Balcony of the property in Scilla overlooking the castle
Courtyard at a property in Scilla

Day 2: Scilla

This was my slower day.

After the most amazing night's sleep I was awake early. I showered and consulted Google Maps to check where the nearest supermarket was as I needed supplies.

The apartment was self catering, so I needed breakfast and lunch as I planned to spend the day working form the apartment.

There was a mini market just 6 minutes walk away, so after putting a wash in, I set off to get what I needed for the day. 

The supermarket was well stocked and the prices reasonable. They had most things you could possibly need including a butchers counter and fresh bread. For a bag of supplies for the day including wine, I spent just €18.

I worked from the balcony, got distracted by the view every five minutes, and did very little that looked productive on paper but felt great in real life. 

In the evening, I ate in Chianalea at a place that had pizza options (I’m not a seafood girl, and Calabria will test you on that). Both evenings my food bill with wine was around the £30 mark.

Also worth noting: lift times can change depending on the day, so take a photo of the operating schedule so you don’t end up climbing stairs in the dark. 

Street in Chianlea, Scilla

Day 3: Scilla to Tropea

Moving accommodation sounds annoying, but with a backpack it was easy. 

  • Scilla to Tropea by train: 1 hr 13 mins 
  • Ticket cost: €5.40 

After arriving in Tropea, I walked the 10 mins from the station down the centre where my accommodation was located

The apartment 'Terrazzo Del Borgo' was just metres from the steps that led down to the sea. Here, I chose the most expensive apartment as yet again I couldn't resist having a balcony with a view. It was still only £62.

Tropea is all about the view. You walk around the centre, see the coastline, and wonder how the water can possibly be that colour. 

I spent the afternoon on the beach, then had dinner in the centre. Dining alone turned out to be one of the best parts of the trip. You take your time, people watch, and you notice more.

Getting to Tropea from Reggio di Calabria

Day 4: Tropea to Reggio Calabria and Home

I had breakfast included with my stay via a café voucher which was a lovely touch.

The voucher was for a café located adjacent to the property (Nonna Rosa) and entitled you to a choice of any 3 items from the menu, although, you could order more and pay the difference if you wish.

I chose a yoghurt which I hadn't realised was like an ice cream, an usual choice for breakfast but delicious all the same.

I then headed back to Reggio Calabria Centrale. 

  • Tropea to Reggio Calabria by train: 1 hr 45 mins 
  • Ticket cost: €7.40 

Then the airport bus again: 

  • €1.50 
  • Around 15 minutes 

The airport itself is tiny. No big duty free, minimal food options. Two hours before your flight is more than enough. 

Breakfast in Tropea Café Italy

Full Cost Breakdown

  • Return flights: £28.40 
  • 2 nights in Scilla: £198.19 
  • 1 night in Tropea: £61.56 
  • Lift in Scilla: £1.71 
  • Airport bus (return): £2.57 
  • Train Reggio Calabria to Scilla: £6.98 
  • Train Scilla to Tropea: £4.65 
  • Train Tropea to Reggio Calabria: £6.38 

Total spend: £310.44 

Food was very reasonable for this trip. I spent in the region of £150, which included 3 evening meals, 2 lunches and 1 supermarket haul plus plenty of wine!

If travelling as a couple and splitting accommodation, the per person cost drops a lot. 

Best Beaches in Calabria

Calabria is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy, many of which are still far less crowded than the more famous coastal destinations further north. 

Some of the most popular beaches include: 

Tropea Beach 
The dramatic white sand beach below the historic town is one of the most photographed beaches in southern Italy. The turquoise water and views of Santa Maria dell’Isola make it one of the most spectacular coastal spots in the region. 

Scilla Beach 
Located below the castle in Scilla, this long stretch of beach is popular with locals and offers beautiful views across the Strait of Messina towards Sicily. 

Capo Vaticano 
Located about 30 minutes from Tropea, Capo Vaticano is known for its rugged coastline, crystal clear water and quieter atmosphere. 

If you’re visiting Calabria in summer, these beaches alone make the region worth the trip. 

Best Places to Visit in Calabria

While Scilla and Tropea are two of the most beautiful towns in Calabria, there are several other places worth visiting if you have more time. 

Some of the most popular destinations include: 

Tropea – famous for its cliffside views, beaches and lively historic centre. 

Scilla – a traditional fishing village known for Chianalea and Castello Ruffo. 

Reggio Calabria – a waterfront city with views across to Sicily and home to the famous Riace Bronzes. 

Capo Vaticano – dramatic cliffs and some of the best beaches in Calabria. 

Because trains connect many of these towns along the coast, it’s possible to explore the region without hiring a car. 

Which Airport to Fly Into for Calabria

There are two main airports serving the Calabria region: 

Reggio Calabria Airport 
Located at the very southern tip of Italy, this airport is the closest option for visiting Scilla. 

Lamezia Terme Airport 
The largest airport in Calabria and often the easiest option for international flights. From here you can reach Tropea by train in around 1 hour. 

Both airports are well connected by rail, making it possible to explore Calabria without needing to rent a car. 

Scilla vs Tropea: Which Was Better?

I get asked this all the time. 

Scilla felt quieter, more local, and more “authentic fishing town”. 


Tropea had more going on, more tourist facilities, and that iconic beach view. 

If I did the same trip again, I would: 

  • Spend 2 nights in Tropea 
  • Then move to Scilla for the final night, because it’s closer and simpler for getting back to the airport 

Even better I'd add another 2 days, so I could spend more time in Tropea without sacrificing time in Scilla. However, being a mum of 4 , that's practically impossible to escape for that long.

The train frequency from Tropea back to Reggio Calabria felt more limiting, and I didn’t love relying on one perfect train to line up with my flight. 

FAQs

Is Calabria expensive? 

Not compared to many parts of Italy. Transport is cheap, and accommodation can be great value, especially outside peak summer. 

Is Scilla worth visiting? 

Yes. It’s small, scenic, easy by train, and feels calmer than many better known coastal towns. 

Is Tropea expensive? 

Tropea can be pricier than Scilla because it’s more touristy, but it can still be budget-friendly compared to Amalfi or Cinque Terre. 

How do you get from Scilla to Tropea? 

By train. It’s straightforward and affordable, and you can buy tickets at the station or via apps. 

 

Planning more of Italy?

Explore our complete Italy Travel Guide with multi-city train routes, family itineraries, budget trips and transport tips all in one place. 

👉 See all Italy guides here 

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2 Days Itinerary for Lake Como in Winter with Full Costs

If you think Lake Como is only for summer yacht days and celebrity villas think again. 

We spent 2 nights in Lake Como during February half term, and it was peaceful, scenic and far more affordable than most people expect. 

Snow on the tops of the mountains and hardly anyone around. Lake Como is one of my favourite places to visit in winter.

Here’s exactly how we did it, what it cost, where we stayed and whether winter is actually the best time to go.

How Much Are Flights to Milan?

We flew from Manchester to Milan Malpensa Airport. 

Flights: £108pp return 

(This included reserving seats together both ways.) More than we would usually pay, however, it was half-term PLUS the Winter Olympics were taking place, so prices were at a premium for the dates we wanted.

If you’re flexible, flights to Milan regularly appear for £26–£40 return, especially outside school holidays. 

We were only staying two nights, so backpacks were more than enough. 

Varenna Lake Como in winter

Watch the Video

Lake Como Airport

There isn’t actually an airport called “Lake Como Airport.” You fly into Milan and travel onwards by train. 

Nearest Airports to the South of Lake Como

Milan Malpensa Airport 

Best for: Lecco, Varenna and Como town 

Around 1.5–2 hours by train. 

Milan Bergamo Airport (Orio al Serio) 

Often the cheapest option from UK regional airports. 

Lecco is one of the closest Lake Como towns to Bergamo - around 40 minutes by train from Bergamo station. 

Milan Linate Airport 

For most UK travellers, Malpensa or Bergamo offer the best value. 

view of lake como from a plane

How to Get from Milan Malpensa Airport to Lecco

There is no direct train from Malpensa to Lecco, but it’s very easy. 

We took: 

Train from Milan Malpensa Airport to Milano Centrale 

Switched platforms 

Then boarded a train heading to Tirano and exited at Lecco 

The platform swap at Milano Centrale is simple. All trains are in one line — no underpasses, no complicated route. It takes minutes. 

Finding the Train Station at Milan Malpensa

The train station stops at: 

Terminal 1 

Terminal 2 

It is well signposted from arrivals and only a short indoor walk. 

milan malpensa train ticket office and machines

Purchasing Train Tickets on Arrival

If you’re trying to catch an imminent train, tickets may not show on the Trainline or Trenitalia app or at the machines at the station.

That happened to us. 

We had to use the ticket counter, but the service was excellent and very efficient. 

Train Costs 

Airport to Lecco: 

£46.11 one way for 2 adults + 1 child 

= £30.74pp return 

Milan Malpensa airport train to Milano Centrale

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Where We Stayed: Hotel Griso Collection

Where We Stayed: Hotel Griso Collection 

2 nights: £269 total (£90pp) 

Located in Malgrate, across the lake from Lecco. 

How Many Does the Family Room Sleep? 

Family rooms sleep: 

2 adults 

2 children 

Usually configured as a double bed plus sofa bed. 

In our room we had 2 doubles (although they did seem smaller than a standard double) plus one pull out bed.

Hot tub roof top at Griso Hotel Lecco

What We Loved 

The balcony view. Honestly — wow. You don’t usually get that standard in a family room. 

Huge TV with Netflix and Disney+ (just log in with your own accounts)

Friendly staff 

Clean, spacious rooms 

Underground parking 

Excellent value for Lake Como 

We don’t like being out late in winter. It gets cold quickly. We loved early dinner and cosy movie nights overlooking the lake. 

Downsides

25-minute walk from Lecco station 

(Scenic lakeside walk though, so it doesn’t feel too long.) 

Buses exist but route was longer than walking 

No Uber-style services 

Rooftop hot tub closed in winter 

Family rooms more dated than renovated rooms for couples (they may be working their way through the hotel with updates)

balcony view from family room at Hotel Griso Malgrate Italy

View availability and latest prices for Hotel Griso Collection

See the Hotel View

view of Lake Como from Hotel Griso
Lake Como in winter with Hotel Griso Collection and mountain views above Malgrate.
Family room layout at Hotel Griso collection

Hotel Room Service

We arrived at the hotel hungry. We had planned to stop on our walk from the train station to the hotel, but didn't see any restaurants open on our route.

The hotel's restaurant menu was limited and not hugely child-friendly. 

We decided to order from room service: 

3 pizzas + 4 cokes = €90 

The pizzas weren’t great and felt expensive. If doing it again, I’d plan food better before arrival. 

Lake Como Weather in Winter

We’ve now visited twice in February, and both times we had dry weather with daytime temperatures around 12°C. 

Typical winter weather: 

Daytime: 6–12°C 

Night-time: 0–4°C 

Snow on mountain peaks 

Fewer crowds 

Early sunset (4–5pm) 

You won’t sunbathe, but you’ll get crisp blue skies and stunning reflections on calm water.

Is Lecco a Good Base for Lake Como?

Yes, Lecco is one of the first towns from Milano Centrale. 

Lecco town centre in winter

From Lecco you can: 

Take direct trains to Varenna-Esino 

Continue towards Tirano (Bernina Express route) 

Get buses to Bellagio 

Enjoy lakefront restaurants without peak pricing 

In winter, Lecco offers better hotel value and fewer crowds. 

It feels calmer, slower and more authentic.

Personally, I wouldn’t choose peak summer, especially Varenna, which gets extremely crowded with day-trippers from Milan.

In winter, you get space.

For us, Lake Garda is our summer go-to for nothern Italy.

Lake Como Map

If you're trying to visualise the layout before booking accommodation, this is how the lake is structured.

Lake Como is shaped like an upside-down Y. 

Western branch: Como town 

Eastern branch: Lecco and Varenna 

Top centre: Bellagio, Menaggio and Varenna (the “Golden Triangle”) 

The eastern side (Lecco/Varenna) is generally easier by train from Milan. 

Getting from Lecco to Varenna

The train from Lecco to Varenna-Esino cost £7.30 one way for 2 adults + 1 child 

= £4.84pp return 

The Lecco to Varenna train journey takes just 24 minutes and is direct. 

Map of Lake Como

Our Video of Varenna in Winter

What to Do in Varenna in a Day

Varenna is small but beautiful. 

In one day you can: 

Walk the lakeside promenade 

Explore the colourful harbour 

Browse boutique shops 

Visit Villa Monastero gardens (seasonal) 

Climb to Castello di Vezio (if open) 

Take a ferry to Menaggio or Bellagio 

Varenna isn't somewhere you rush around with a checklist. It’s somewhere you wander, photograph and sit.

We had lunch at Bar Molo, right next to the famous colourful houses, and even in February we were able to sit outside thanks to the blankets and tall gas patio heaters they provided.

The total bill came to €81 (£70.72), which included three adult mains, 2 sides, 2 drinks each, bread and coperto charge— very reasonable for that location.

We followed the meal with gelato next door which was just £3.32 for two!

 
 
varenna coloured houses in winter
where to eat in Varenna
varenna lake view restaurant

Getting from Varenna to Bellagio or Menaggio

Ferries run in winter, just less frequently. 

We saw various passenger and car ferries throughout the day. 

However, because it gets dark around 4–5pm in winter, trying to fit in the train from Lecco, time in Varenna, ferry hopping, properly exploring Bellagio or Menaggio, and then making the return journey back to Varenna for the train to Lecco can start to feel a bit rushed in the shorter daylight hours.

From Lecco, you can also catch a bus directly to Bellagio if you’d prefer that option.

If you want to explore the full Golden Triangle properly, I’d suggest: 

Staying a night in Varenna 

Or 

Adding an extra night to your trip 

In summer months you can take a ferry from Varenna to Bellagio and then a ferry from Bellagio to Lecco.

varenna ferry terminal tp Bellagio

How Much Time Do I Need in Varenna?

Half a day covers the highlights. 

A full day is perfect if you: 

Want a relaxed lunch 

Plan to ferry hop 

Take photos 

Visit gardens or castle 

In winter, one day is usually enough due to early sunset. 

Full Cost Breakdown (2 Adults + 1 Child)

Flights – £108pp 

Hotel – £90pp 

Airport trains – £30.74pp return 

Lecco ↔ Varenna trains – £4.84pp return 

For a February half term European lake break it's very achievable.

Continue Reading

How we combined Lake Como with the Bernina Express

How to Travel Italy Cheaply - flights, trains and accommodation

7 Day Venice, Lake Garda & Verona Itinerary by train and ferries

12 Italy Cities you can combine by train

Want more Italy?

Explore our complete Italy Travel Guide with multi-city train routes, family itineraries, budget trips and transport tips all in one place. 

👉 See all Italy guides here 

✈️ Want us to find trips like this for you? 

Our members-only Build a Break Travel Club receives hand-picked flight & hotel deals, Extreme Day Trips and multi-city Europe itineraries every week, all from UK and Ireland airports. 

👉 Join the Travel Club here 

10 Cheapest Places to Visit in Italy from the UK in 2026

Cheap Italy destinations ranked by flight prices, accommodation costs and transport value

all about me a travel blogger on Italy and Calabria

Looking for the cheapest places to visit in Italy from the UK?

Italy doesn’t have to mean Amalfi Coast prices or Lake Como luxury. When you look at real flight data, airport transfers and accommodation averages, certain regions consistently offer far better value than others.

This guide is based on:

  • Off-peak UK & Ireland flight pricing

  • Airport transfer costs

  • Budget accommodation averages

  • Typical meal prices

  • Whether you can travel without hiring a car

Just a quick note before we begin- this blog  may 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.

Some of these destinations we’ve personally travelled to (like Calabria and Sicily). Others consistently appear as low-cost flight routes from the UK.

If you’re flexible and avoid peak July–August pricing, Italy can be surprisingly affordable, even for families.

This guide compares the cheapest cities in Italy to fly to from the UK, including southern Italy, Sicily, Puglia and northern alternatives.

If you're new to planning this way, read our full guide on how to travel Italy cheaply where we break down exactly how we choose destinations based on price patterns rather than popularity.

How Cheap Can Flights to Italy Be?

One of the biggest myths is that Italy is expensive to fly to.

In off-peak months like March, recent return examples have included:

  • Manchester to Milan from £26

  • Manchester to Naples from £28

  • Manchester to Venice from £32

  • London to Palermo from £35

  • London to Reggio Calabria from £35

  • Ireland to Trieste from £30

  • Edinburgh to Venice from £32

These show how low Italy flight prices can drop outside peak school holidays.

Cheap flight = flexible itinerary.

If Milan is £26, that opens up Lake Garda, Bergamo and Verona by train. If Reggio Calabria is £35, you’re one ferry ride away from Sicily.

You could even build an extreme day trip - we flew to Rome for just one day and proved it’s completely doable. You can read exactly how we structured our 1 day in Rome itinerary.

Sicily on a Budget: A 4 Day Itinerary from Mainland Italy
Cefalu in Sicily - Nearest Airport: Palermo

1. Reggio Calabria – One of the Cheapest Places in Southern Italy

If you’re searching for cheap southern Italy destinations, Reggio Calabria regularly appears with some of the lowest UK flight prices.

Flights from London frequently sit under £35 return off-peak.

Transfers from airport to city centre start from around €1.50 by local bus or train.

Accommodation averages:
€30–€50 per night for guesthouses and small hotels.

I’ve personally used Reggio Calabria twice, once to explore Calabrian region and another as a gateway into Sicily, taking the 30-minute ferry across the Strait of Messina, and it worked out far cheaper than flying directly into Palermo or Catania.

If you’re planning this region, read our detailed 4-day Calabria itinerary covering Reggio Calabria, Tropea and Scilla.

You can also explore 6 towns in Calabria and Sicily directly from Reggio Calabria Airport without hiring a car.

And here’s exactly how to travel between Sicily and mainland Italy by public transport cheaply

Map of Calabria and Southern region of Italy and Eastern Sicily

2. Palermo – Cheapest Major City in Sicily

Palermo consistently appears on low-cost carrier routes from the UK.

Return fares often range from £30–£60 outside peak summer.

Airport shuttle: €6
Guesthouses from €30
Street food from €2–€3

Sicily generally offers lower accommodation averages than Rome, Florence or Venice,  especially outside July and August.

Street food is where Palermo really shines for budget travellers. You can eat incredibly well here without spending much at all:

  • Panelle or sfincione from €2–€3

  • Arancini from €3

  • Full pasta or seafood meals from €10–€12

Palmero habour - a cheap city to visit in Italy from the UK

3. Catania – Budget Base for East Sicily

If you’re looking for cheap places in Sicily with airport access, Catania is one of the strongest-value options.

Flights from regional UK airports regularly drop below £50 return.

Alibus to city centre: €4
B&Bs from €35
Arancini from €3

Mount Etna views without mainland pricing.

You can also use Catania as a budget base to explore more of eastern Sicily without hiring a car. Regional trains connect Siracusa (Syracuse) in around 1 hour (from approximately €8 each way), and Taormina in about 50 minutes (from around €6–€9). That means you can stay in lower-cost Catania accommodation while still visiting some of Sicily’s most iconic coastal towns on a day trip.

Catania with kids by train

4. Tropea (via Lamezia Terme)

Tropea doesn’t have its own airport, but it’s easily reached via Lamezia Terme,  where off-peak return flights into Lamezia Terme regularly appear between £30–£70 from London. From there you can take a regional train directly to Tropea at a low cost.

Accommodation in Tropea often starts from around €35 per night for guesthouses, making it one of the most affordable beach towns in Italy.

If you’re flying into Reggio Calabria instead, Tropea is also reachable in around 1.5 hours by train , a scenic and inexpensive coastal journey I've done on a solo trip. It’s included in my detailed 4-day Calabria itinerary covering Reggio Calabria, Tropea and Scilla, which shows exactly how to structure the trip without hiring a car.

Tropea beach and castle view from Tropea Centre travel guide on Tropea
One of my favourite places in Italy - Tropea

5. Bari – Cheap Coastal Italy Without Amalfi Prices

Bari consistently appears as one of the cheapest Italian cities to fly to from the UK.

Flights: £20–£50 return
Airport train: €5
B&Bs from €40

Puglia often delivers southern Italy coastline at a fraction of Amalfi or Cinque Terre prices.

The airport is well connected by train, and accommodation averages remain lower than many northern Italian cities.

What makes Bari particularly strong for budget travel is what it unlocks nearby. You can easily reach Polignano a Mare, Lecce, Monopoli, and the iconic trulli houses of Alberobello by regional train, while Matera is accessible by bus or train for a memorable cave-town day trip.

There are also frequent low-cost flights into nearby Brindisi, which means you can fly into one airport and out of the other to create a flexible, open-jaw Puglia itinerary without backtracking.

Bari + Polignano a Mare by Train – Puglia’s Coast Made Easy

6. Naples – Budget Gateway to Amalfi

Naples gives access to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast — without staying on the Amalfi Coast.

Flights: £25–£50 return
Airport bus: €5
Pizza: €5–€8

It’s one of the cheapest large cities in Italy for food.

Naples works brilliantly as a budget base because you don’t need to stay on the Amalfi Coast to experience it. Accommodation in Naples is significantly cheaper than Amalfi, Positano or Ravello, and public transport connections make day trips easy.

From Naples you can reach Pompeii in around 35–40 minutes on the Circumvesuviana train, often for just a few euros. The same line continues towards Sorrento, where you can connect to buses along the Amalfi Coast to visit Amalfi and Ravello without paying coastal hotel prices.

Bologna on a budget

Naples is also a fantastic gateway to the islands. Ferries run regularly to Procida, Ischia, and Capri, meaning you can explore colourful fishing villages and crystal-clear water, then return to lower-cost accommodation in Naples in the evening. It’s one of the smartest ways to experience the Amalfi region on a budget without hiring a car or paying premium coastal rates.

7. Bologna – Cheaper Alternative to Florence

Flights from £25–£50
Accommodation from €45

Bologna is often overlooked in favour of Florence, but that’s exactly why it can work out cheaper. Flights from the UK regularly sit in the £25–£50 range off-peak, and accommodation prices are typically lower than nearby Tuscan hotspots.

It’s also one of the best-connected cities in Italy by high-speed train, which means you can base yourself in Bologna and explore without moving hotels. Florence is around 40 minutes away by train, Venice about 1.5 hours, and Milan just over an hour. Even smaller cities like Parma and Modena are easy day trips, perfect if you’re interested in food-focused travel without paying Florence prices.

Bologna itinerary with kids

Bologna itself offers great value when eating out too. As the home of tagliatelle al ragù and tortellini, you can enjoy proper regional dishes for €8–€12, and aperitivo culture remains reasonably priced compared to larger tourist cities. For travellers wanting central Italy access without premium city accommodation costs, Bologna consistently delivers strong value.

8. Lecce – Southern Italy Value Pick

Lecce is often called the “Florence of the South,” but prices are typically far lower than in Tuscany.

By flying into Brindisi or even Bari, both of which regularly see low-cost routes from the UK, you can reach Lecce by train in under an hour from Brindisi for around €7.

Accommodation in Lecce is generally very good value, with boutique B&Bs and stylish apartments starting from around €40 per night.

Because it is less dominated by large-scale tourism than northern cities, you will often find better quality stays for lower prices.

Lecce also works well as a base for exploring the Salento peninsula. From here you can reach coastal spots like Otranto and Gallipoli by regional train, meaning you can combine baroque architecture with beach days without hiring a car.

Food prices remain reasonable too, with pasticiotti from €1 and fresh orecchiette dishes from around €8, making it one of the strongest value destinations in southern Italy for both culture and coastline.

 
cheapest places to stay in Italy Lecce Puglia

9. Genoa – Underrated Liguria

Genoa is often overlooked in favour of the Cinque Terre, which is exactly why it can be a smarter budget base. Flights regularly appear from around £28 off-peak, and accommodation prices are typically lower than staying directly in the smaller coastal villages.

From Genoa, it’s entirely possible to visit the Cinque Terre by train. Regional trains run along the Ligurian coast in around 1 to 1.5 hours depending on the village, meaning you can explore places like Monterosso or Vernazza during the day and return to more affordable accommodation in Genoa in the evening. That alone can make a noticeable difference to your overall trip cost.

Genoa itself offers good value too, with focaccia from €1.50, pesto pasta under €10, and a large historic centre that feels authentic rather than heavily tourist-priced. For travellers wanting Ligurian coastline without paying peak Cinque Terre hotel rates, Genoa consistently works well.

Genoa on a budget

10. Trieste – Cheapest City in Northern Italy?

Trieste is one of the most underrated and affordable cities in northern Italy. Because it sits close to the Slovenian border and slightly off the classic Rome–Florence–Venice tourist trail, accommodation prices are often noticeably lower than in Venice or Milan. Off-peak flights into Trieste or nearby Venice Treviso regularly appear at competitive prices, and onward transfers are straightforward and inexpensive.

What makes Trieste particularly good value is how compact and walkable it is. You can explore the grand Piazza Unità d’Italia, the historic canals and the hilltop Castello di San Giusto without needing public transport. Coffee culture is strong here too, with espresso prices often lower than in more tourist-heavy cities.

Trieste also opens up cross-border opportunities. You can take a short bus or train into Slovenia, visit coastal towns like Piran, or explore the Miramare Castle just outside the city. For travellers wanting northern Italian elegance without Venice-level accommodation costs, Trieste consistently offers strong value.

Trieste on a budget

How to Travel Italy on a Budget (Proven Strategy)

If you want to consistently find cheap Italy breaks:

• Travel March–May or late September–November
• Be flexible with departure airport
• Book trains early (fares from €9.90)
• Use public transport instead of hiring a car
• Stay central to avoid extra transfers

For accommodation inspiration, see our guide to 10 affordable hotels in Italy with iconic views.

FAQ: Cheapest Places to Visit in Italy

What is the cheapest place to fly to in Italy from the UK?

Southern cities like Bari, Naples, Palermo and Reggio Calabria frequently show the lowest return fares, often between £20–£50 off-peak.

Is southern Italy cheaper than northern Italy?

Yes. Accommodation and food prices in regions like Calabria, Sicily and Puglia are generally lower than in Venice, Milan or Lake Como.

What is the cheapest month to visit Italy?

March, April and November often offer the lowest flight and hotel pricing.

Is Sicily cheaper than mainland Italy?

In many cases, yes — particularly for accommodation and eating out.

Can you visit Italy without renting a car?

Yes. Many destinations listed here have affordable train connections and airport transfers.

Is Italy Expensive? Only If You Pick the Wrong Airports.

Italy can be luxury. Or it can be £26 flights and €8 pasta. The difference is flexibility.

Choose the right region, travel outside peak season and build your itinerary around flight pricing, and Italy becomes one of the best-value European destinations from the UK.

Want more on Italy?

Explore our complete Italy Travel Guide with multi-city train routes, family itineraries, budget trips and transport tips all in one place. 

👉 See all Italy guides here 

✈️ Want us to find trips like this for you? 

Our members-only Build a Break Travel Club receives hand-picked flight & hotel deals, Extreme Day Trips and multi-city Europe itineraries every week, all from UK and Ireland airports. 

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10 best affordable destinations in Italy
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Best Family Campsites in Lake Garda (South Guide)

If you’re planning a family holiday to Lake Garda and wondering where to stay, the southern end of the lake is one of the easiest and most practical areas, especially with kids.

Around:

  • Peschiera del Garda

  • Lazise

  • Castelnuovo del Garda

You’ll find flatter lakeside paths (great for scooters and prams), family-friendly beaches, ferry stops, train connections and easy access to Gardaland.

Some campsites are walkable to the train station and town.
Others are better suited if you have a car.

Below, I’ve listed 18 of the best family-friendly campsites in South Lake Garda, plus clear breakdowns of which are best for:

  • 🚆 No car needed

  • 🎢 Gardaland access

  • 👶 Toddlers

  • 👦 Teens

  • 🌅 Pretty town settings

Peschiera del Garda in South Lake Garda, Italy, with harbour views and lakeside walkway
Peschiera Del Garda

We’ve previously travelled Italy by train with four kids and combined Rome, Florence, Lake Garda and Venice in one trip. You can read our full route breakdown here.

Why South Lake Garda Works So Well for Families

From Peschiera train station you can reach:

  • Verona – 15 minutes

  • Venice – around 1 hour 15

  • Milan – around 1 hour 15

  • Florence – just under 2 hours

 

That means you can combine:

🎢 Theme park days
🚆 City day trips
💦 Pool downtime
🌅 Lakeside evenings

All from one base.

where to stay near to Gardaland

You can easily take day trips to Venice or Verona from Lake Garda - we’ve shared our full Venice itinerary here.

Just a quick note before we begin- some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting our work and happy planning!  

Quick Area Breakdown

📍 Peschiera del Garda

Best for train access and flat walks.

📍 Lazise

Prettiest town vibe, great lakeside feel.

📍 Castelnuovo / Inland

Best for Gardaland and large pool complexes, may need transport.

🚆 Best Campsites in Lake Garda Without a Car

⭐ Camping Village Butterfly

📍 0.5 miles from centre

One of the most convenient locations on the lake.

  • Walkable to town

  • Walkable to train station

  • Lakeside setting

  • Ferry stop nearby

Arrive by train and you genuinely don’t need a car.

 

⭐ Camping Bella Italia

Bigger and busier with one of the best pool complexes in the area.

  • Direct lake access

  • Flat cycle path into town

  • Close to train station

Great if your kids love slides and splash parks.

Our Review of Camping Butterfly Village, Lake Garda
Camping Village Butterfly
Bella Italia pools and grounds Lake Garda
Camping Bella Italia

⭐ Campeggio del Garda

Large site in a strong central position. Good option for train travel and lake walks.

⭐ Camping Bergamini

📍 1.3 miles from centre

A longer walk, but still manageable if you prefer a smaller, quieter site.

We’ve stayed in Peschiera del Garda twice and have another visit planned this year. You can read our detailed guide here.

Campeggio Del Garda Pool side area
Campeggio Del Garda
Camping Bergamini beach and pool lake garda
Camping Bergamini

🎢 Visiting Gardaland (With or Without a Car)

One of the biggest reasons families choose this area is proximity to Gardaland - Italy's biggest theme park with a Legoland Water Park and Peppa Pig Land inside!

Here’s something many people don’t realise:

🚍 There is a free shuttle bus from Peschiera del Garda train station directly to Gardaland.

The journey takes around 5–10 minutes and runs regularly during the main season.

So if you stay in Peschiera:

  • Walk to the station

  • Hop on the free shuttle

  • Spend the day at Gardaland

  • Be back at your campsite for dinner

  • No car required.
legoland water park inside Gardaland theme park in Lake Garda
Peppa pig land entrance at Gardaland

Best Campsites for Gardaland Access

Baia Holiday Gasparina – very close to the park

Camping Fossalta – good balance of park and lakeside

Hu Altomincio – larger resort-style site (better with a car or organised transport)

Camping Bella Italia – easy via shuttle

Camping Village Butterfly – easy via shuttle

Hu Altomincio – larger resort-style site (better with a car or organised transport)
Hu Altomincio
Camping Fossalta in Lake Garda within close proximity to Gardaland
Camping Fossalta

👶 Best Campsites for Toddlers (Smaller & Calmer)

San Benedetto Camping Relais

Glamping Lake Garda

Agricamping Zanina 9

These are generally smaller scale and less overwhelming than the mega-sites.

👦 Best Campsites for Teens (More Facilities & Energy)

Camping Bella Italia

Club del Sole Le Palme

Camping Park delle Rose

Eurocamping Pacengo

Larger pool complexes and more activity programmes work well for older kids wanting a bit of independence.

Glamping tent breaks in Lake Garda area
Glamping Lake Garda
Camping Park delle Rose best for teenagers with big slides Lake Garda
Camping Park delle Rose

🌅 Best for Pretty Town Setting (Lazise Area)

If evening strolls, colourful harbours and restaurant-lined promenades are important to you, consider the Lazise side.

Campsites here include:

Lazise is one of the prettiest towns on the lake, slightly less train-convenient than Peschiera, but beautiful.

Lazise

Complete List of 18 South Lake Garda Campsites For ease, here they are together:

    1. Camping Bergamini (Peschiera del Garda)
    2. San Benedetto Camping Relais (Peschiera del Garda)
    3. Camping Village Butterfly (Peschiera del Garda)
    4. Camping Wien (Lazise)
    5. Agricamping Zanina 9 (Peschiera del Garda)
    6. Glamping Lake Garda (Peschiera del Garda)
    7. Eurocamping Pacengo (Lazise)
    8. Baia Holiday Gasparina (Castelnuovo del Garda)
    9. Club del Sole Le Palme Lazise Family Collection (Lazise)
    10. Camping Park delle Rose (Lazise)
    11. Camping Fossalta (Lazise)
    12. Camping Village Du Parc (Lazise)
    13. IdeaLazise Camping and Village (Lazise)
    14. Camping Belvedere (Lazise)
    15. Campeggio Del Garda (Peschiera del Garda)
    16. Bella Italia (Peschiera del Garda)
    17. Hu Altomincio (Valeggio sul Mincio)
    18. Camping Cisano San Vito (Bardolino)

If you’re unsure which to choose, Camping Village Butterfly and Bella Italia are the most convenient for train travel, while Hu Altomincio and Park delle Rose offer the largest pool complexes.

So Which Town should you Choose?

If convenience is your top priority, base yourself in Peschiera del Garda.

If you want charm and harbour views, consider Lazise.

If Gardaland is the main event, stay close or use the free shuttle from Peschiera station.

South Lake Garda offers that rare balance families love:
Resort-style pool holidays with the option to jump on a train to Venice for the day.

And that combination is hard to beat.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a car in Lake Garda?
Not if you stay in Peschiera del Garda. The train station connects to Verona, Venice and Milan, and there is a free shuttle bus to Gardaland.

Which area of Lake Garda is best for families?
South Lake Garda is generally the easiest with flatter paths, train access and proximity to Gardaland.

 

Planning a Multi-Stop Italy Trip?

If you’re building a longer Italy itinerary, you might also find these helpful:

🚆 Our full 16-day Italy by train route

🇮🇹 7-day Venice, Lake Garda & Verona itinerary

🏛 Rome campsite stay near the airport

🇮🇹 How long to spend in Italy with kids

 

Planning more of Italy?

Explore our complete Italy Travel Guide with multi-city train routes, family itineraries, budget trips and transport tips all in one place. 

👉 See all Italy guides here 

✈️ Want us to find trips like this for you? 

Our members-only Build a Break Travel Club receives hand-picked flight & hotel deals, Extreme Day Trips and multi-city Europe itineraries every week, all from UK and Ireland airports. 

👉 Join the Travel Club here 

Lake Garda: Camping Butterfly Village: Our Review

As a family of six, we ended our 16-day Italy by train adventure in Lake Garda  and choosing the right base really mattered. 

For the northern leg of our trip (Venice, Verona, Milan and Lake Garda), we needed somewhere walkable from a train station, easy for day trips, and not so huge that it felt like hard work in the heat. 

We chose Camping Butterfly in Peschiera del Garda, and honestly, it was exactly what we needed at the end of a long multi-stop trip: compact, flat, relaxing, and brilliantly located. 

In this review, I’ll share what it’s really like staying at Camping Butterfly with kids, including accommodation options, pools, entertainment, food, getting there without a car, day trips by train, and whether we’d go back (spoiler: we already have!). 

Camping Butterfly – At a Glance 

Best for: Families who want a Lake Garda base with easy train day trips 

Location: Peschiera del Garda, Lake Garda 

Nearest station: Peschiera del Garda (walkable) 

Nearest airports: Verona (closest) / Milan Bergamo (often cheaper) 

Car needed: No 

Site size: Small (around 220 pitches) Recommended stay: 4–7 nights (longer if you want pool + day trips) 

On-site highlights: 2 pools, playground, evening entertainment, great location 

 
Lake Garda with kids - where to stay

 

Just a quick note before we begin: some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend places we’ve personally stayed in and genuinely think work well for families. 

Why We Chose Peschiera del Garda (and Camping Butterfly)

Because this was the final part of a big 16-day route, we wanted a base that made life easy. 

After researching, Peschiera del Garda felt like the best fit because: 

  • It has a major train station with direct connections to Verona, Venice, Milan and more 

 

  • Journey times are short (from around 15 minutes to under 2 hours) 

 

  • You can also reach it easily from Tuscany via high-speed trains 

 

  • It’s a proper Lake Garda town, so you’re not “stuck on site” 

 

  • There are a few campsites in the area, but Camping Butterfly was the closest to the station, around a 10–15 minute walk. 
Where to stay in Lake Garda- Butterfly Camping

Our Honest Review of Camping Butterfly (Lake Garda)

We only booked around 6 weeks before departure, so options were limited and some sites were already fully booked. Butterfly didn’t look as flashy as bigger Italian campsites but for this stage of the trip, it turned out to be perfect. 

After Rome (800 pitches) and Hu Norcenni (around 1500), we genuinely don’t think we’d have coped with another huge resort-style site.

Hu Norcenni in Tuscany had been particularly tiring, as it was all on a hillside and a good trek to/from the centre. We could have kissed the ground when we arrived at Camping Butterfly. Both the pool and shop were just a 2 minute walk from our caravan.

What we loved most: 

It’s flat (no hills, no long walks in extreme heat) 

Everything is 2–3 minutes away on site as it's very compact

It felt manageable with kids,  we were happy letting them wander 

The location is one of the best we’ve had in Italy - literally right by the lake and lots of bars and restaurants in walking distance

We’ve since revisited Camping Butterfly, so that tells you everything. 

(If you want to see how we did Turin, Milan, Lake Garda and Verona for under £100pp at Easter click here)

Our Review of Camping Butterfly Village, Lake Garda
Butterfly Camping Choice of Accommodations
Our accommodation booked via Canvas Holidays

Accommodation at Camping Butterfly (What We Stayed In + Cost)

Camping Butterfly has: 

Camping pitches (tent/caravan/camper) 

Mobile homes 

Bungalows 

A range of “Boheme” style units (including Deluxe options) 

Our first stay (7 nights) 

We hired a 3-bedroom static caravan (pictured above)

Cost: £872 total 

Booked via: Canvas Holidays 

Location: Number 33 on the site map 

Our return visit (booked direct) 

We booked directly with the campsite which had it's benefits.

Towels and bed linen were included (huge saving vs paying extra or having to lug your own)

Downside of our newer unit: it was close to the site perimeter/main road, and weekends were noisy with cars in the car park. 

Top tip (if choosing a unit): 

Units 1–7 looked lovely with big decks, but they face the entrance road so you may get less privacy. 

 

A boheme Deluxe at Camping Butterfly
Our accommodation booked direct
Where to stay in Lake Garda- Butterfly Camping

Getting to Camping Butterfly Without a Car

This is one of the reasons it’s such a great choice,  you can absolutely do this campsite without driving. 

From Verona Airport to Camping Butterfly (easy option) 

Verona Airport is around 21.5km away (about 25 minutes by car). 

Option 1: Train (Airport → Verona Porta Nuova → Peschiera) 

Take the Airlink bus (199) to Verona Porta Nuova station 

Train to Peschiera del Garda takes around 14–20 minutes 

Option 2: Fixed-price taxi 

There are fixed-price taxis from the airport to Verona Porta Nuova for around €26. 

We actually found this cheaper than the bus on our second visit as a family of six. 

Option 3: Summer buses 

In summer there are also buses towards Peschiera (routes vary seasonally). 

easy train itineraries in Italy for 2026

How We Got There (From Hu Norcenni in Tuscany)

If you’re following our 16-day route, this is the exact journey we did: 

Taxi from Hu Norcenni to Figline Valdarno station 

Regional train to Florence SMN (around 30 minutes) 

Direct high-speed train to Peschiera del Garda (just under 2 hours) 

(Full route + how to plan the whole Italy-by-train trip is in our main 16-day itinerary post.) 

What It’s Like On Site (Pools, Entertainment, Facilities)

Camping Butterfly is compact  and for us, that was a plus. 

Pools 

There are two pools: 

A larger pool for older kids/adults 

A toddler pool with 2 small slides 

Important: swim caps were required when we visited. 

You can bring your own or buy one in the on-site shop. 

Pool opening tip: pool opening dates can vary (some websites list early April, but we were told from May on a previous visit), worth checking if travelling early season. 

Kids / Evening Entertainment 

Mini disco 

Quiz/games 

Occasional acts 

It’s not “big resort” entertainment,  but it matched the size of the site, and we enjoyed it. 

Playground + trampolines 

The playground is right next to the entertainment area and includes: 

Trampolines 

Bouncy castles (open in evenings, sometimes daytime) 

 

 
Pools at Butterfly Camping
Pools at Butterfly Camping

Sports and extras 

Volleyball, football, table tennis 

Bike and electric scooter hire 

Fishing lake (permit required) 

Things To Do Near Camping Butterfly (This is where it shines)

The location is the main reason we love this site. 

The campsite is just across from the lakefront where you can: 

Hire pedalos 

Hire motorboats 

Take ferries to other towns around the lake 

We hired a boat for around €120 including fuel for 2 hours. 

Bring your driving licence as ID/competency. 

Slightly Further Afield:

Gardaland (3km) - free bus from the train station

Perfect if you’ve got kids. 

Gardaland includes: 

Thrill rides 

Peppa Pig Land 

SEA LIFE 

LEGOLAND Water Park (seasonal) 

More theme parks (5km) 

Movieland 

Caneva World 

There are also local activities like golf, crazy golf, horse riding, climbing walls and karting within a short distance. 

Peschiera del Garda town 

The centre is around a 10–15 minute walk and has: 

Shops, bars and restaurants 

A weekly market 

Gorgeous sunset views along the water 

Where We Ate (On Site + Our Favourite in Town)

On-site: Butterfly Bistro -good quality, varied menu, friendly staff. We used it on both stays, especially when it rained (Lake Garda storms are very real). 

There’s also takeaway and some board options available. 

Hiring a boat in Lake Garda
Where to eat in Peschiera Del Garda

On-site mini market 

Small but handy for essentials + fresh bread and pastries. 

It’s pricier than supermarkets (as expected). 

Cheaper supermarket option: Penny Market (around a 15-minute walk) — worth it for bigger shops. 

Our favourite restaurant in Peschiera 

Caffè Centrale – La Zattera (floating quay-side pizzeria) 

We’ve eaten here four times and never been disappointed. 

It’s family-friendly, always busy, and the sunset views are beautiful. 

We don’t think we paid over £100 for all 6 of us, including mains, drinks and a tip (plus the kids eating an alarming amount of free breadsticks and feeding the ducks!

Visiting Peschiera Del Garda
Where to eat in Peschiera Del Garda

Day Trips From Peschiera del Garda By Train

This is why Peschiera is such a brilliant base. 

Verona (15 minutes)

Direct train in under 15 minutes. 

Tickets were around £4 each way for adults. 

We took a taxi from Verona Porta Nuova to Juliet’s House for €10. 

Simple one-day Verona ideas with kids: 

Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta) 

Piazza delle Erbe (markets + gelato) 

Castelvecchio + the bridge 

Giardino Giusti (gardens + maze) 

Arena + Piazza Bra 

Venice (around 1hr 50)

High-speed trains can take around 1hr 50. 

We kept this visit simple (wander + food + exploring), because we’ve done a bigger Venice trip before. 

Milan (under 1 hour)

We actually planned Milan but skipped it — the kids were tired and wanted pool time (fair!). 

We’ve since been back to Milan twice, and personally we think it’s better as a short add-on rather than a full “kid-focused” day. 

If you do go: Duomo rooftop, Galleria, Sforza Castle, Leonardo Museum. 

Verona with kids
Venice with Kids
Verona with kids

What to Pack for an Italian Campsite Holiday

If you’re doing multiple stops (like we did), a small “starter kit” makes life easier. 

Kitchen basics 

Tea towels, scourer, mini washing up liquid bottle 

Antibacterial floor wipes 

A few sachets (salt/sugar/ketchup) 

Cooking oil decanted into a small bottle 

Extra loo roll, matches 

Bin bags 

Citronella candles for evenings 

Clothes washing 

We pack Dr Beckmann’s magic leaves for sink washing (and they work in machines too). 

We also bring compact washing lines. 

Bedding 

Bedding isn’t always included — check your listing. 

Hiring can be expensive (around €100 for 5 beds), so if you’re moving around a lot, bringing your own can work out much cheaper. 

Games 

Uno, Pass the Pigs, and our favourite: Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza. 

Pros & Cons: How Camping Butterfly Compares to Bigger Italian Sites

👍 What we loved 

Small, compact, easy with kids 

No long walks to pool/shop 

Best location we’ve had on an Italian campsite 

Ideal for a multi-city Italy trip by train 

Staff were brilliant (we were allowed to keep the van until 5pm on departure day) 

👎 Things to consider 

Swim caps required 

Less entertainment than huge resort campsites 

Fewer on-site dining options (but town is a short walk, so it didn’t matter) 

Is Camping Butterfly Worth It?

Yes! Especially if you want a Lake Garda base that lets you combine pool days + train day trips without needing a car. 

It’s not the biggest or flashiest campsite in Italy, but that’s the point. After a multi-stop route, this site felt relaxing, easy, and perfectly placed. 

We’ll definitely be back (and already have been!). 

Read Next

Italy by train with kids: our full 16-day route + how to book trains 

Camping Village Fabulous Rome Review 

Hu Norcenni Girasole Tuscany Review 

Italy on a budget: how we keep Italy affordable for families 

Want more of Italy?

Explore our complete Italy Travel Guide with multi-city train routes, family itineraries, budget trips and transport tips all in one place. 

👉 See all Italy guides here 

✈️ Want us to find trips like this for you? 

Our members-only Build a Break Travel Club receives hand-picked flight & hotel deals, Extreme Day Trips and multi-city Europe itineraries every week, all from UK and Ireland airports. 

👉 Join the Travel Club here 

Our 3 day itinerary
how to do an extreme day trip to disneyland paris see how we spent one day at Disneyland

How to Choose the Right Italy Train Itinerary for Your Family 

(4 Days vs 7 Days vs 10–16 Days – No Car Needed)

One of the most common questions I get from families planning a trip to Italy is: 

“How long do we actually need in Italy with kids?” 

And closely followed by: “Is it realistic to do Italy without hiring a car?” 

The short answer is yes! Italy is one of the easiest countries in Europe to explore by train, even with children. 

The longer answer is that choosing the right length of trip matters far more than choosing the “perfect” destinations. 

After travelling Italy multiple times with four children, from short city breaks to a full 16-day Italy by train adventure, this guide will help you decide which type of Italy itinerary works best for your family, based on time, pace, and travel style. 

All of the trips mentioned below are train-based and can be done without a car. 

Why Italy Works So Well by Train for Families

Train travel changes everything when travelling Italy with kids. 

Cinque Terre Coastline the perfect place to visit with kids on a budget in Italy
Rome coliseum

Instead of: 

Navigating busy city traffic 

Worrying about parking, tolls and ZTL zones 

Spending hours driving between places 

You get: 

Fast, frequent connections between major cities 

Stations located right in the heart of cities 

Time to sit, snack, nap or play games between stops 

High-speed trains in Italy are comfortable, reliable and surprisingly affordable when booked in advance. For families, this often makes train travel less stressful than driving, especially when combining multiple destinations. 

We’ve travelled Italy almost exclusively by train, including a full multi-city, multi-base trip, and it’s hands down our preferred way to explore the country with kids. 

Just a quick note before we begin- some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting our work and happy planning!  

1st class train seats from Rome to Florence - high-speed trains with kids

🗓️ If You Only Have 3–4 Days in Italy

If you’ve only got a few days, Italy can still work beautifully, but only if you simplify your plans. 

Short trips work best when you: 

Choose just two nearby cities 

Use a direct train connection 

Avoid changing accommodation too often (I'd say have 2 bases as a maximum, maybe 2 nights in each)

Trying to squeeze in three or four destinations in four days almost always leads to rushed sightseeing and exhausted children. 

This type of trip works best for: 

Long weekends 

Teens and older children 

Families who enjoy cities and walking 

Trips without pool or resort time 

 

High Speed Train from Florence to Lake Garda

Rather than planning a full itinerary, the easiest approach is to pick two cities that naturally pair well by train. 

We’ve created a dedicated guide covering this exact style of trip, with inspiration such as: 

Rome & Naples 

Venice & Verona 

Milan & Lake Como 

👉 Read: 12 Italian Cities You Can Easily Combine on One Train Route 

If you’d like to see how this works in real life, this is a great example: 👉 Our 3 night Turin and Lake Garda Train Itinerary (with short stops in Milan and Verona to break up the journey)

This kind of trip is ideal if you want a taste of Italy without feeling overwhelmed. 

🗓️ 7 Days in Italy – The Sweet Spot for Most Families

For many families, 7 days is the perfect balance. 

It’s long enough to: 

Slow the pace 

Build in rest days 

Include downtime between sightseeing 

But short enough to: 

Stay focused on one region 

Avoid travel fatigue 

Keep logistics simple 

This type of trip works best if: 

It’s your first time visiting Italy 

You’re travelling during school holidays 

You want a mix of sightseeing and relaxation 

 

Lake Garda with kids

Rather than moving every couple of nights, we’ve found the most successful approach is: one main base + easy day trips by train 

A great example of this style of trip is: 👉 7 Nights in Lake Garda where we also include trips to Venice and Verona.

Using one main base allows kids to settle, unpack properly, and enjoy familiar surroundings, which makes a huge difference on family trips. 

We’ve used this same approach in other parts of Italy too, combining: 

City sightseeing 

Relaxed bases 

Short, manageable train journeys 

 

🗓️ 10–21 Days – The Big Italy Adventure

Longer trips often sound intimidating, but in reality they’re usually more relaxed, not less. 

With more time, you can: 

Stay longer in each place 

Avoid the pressure to “see everything” 

Build in proper rest days 

This type of trip is ideal for: 

Families who dislike rushing 

Seeing very different regions of Italy 

Combining cities, countryside and lakes 

Our most extensive trip was: 👉 Italy by Train with Kids: Our 16-Day Route 

Despite the length, it worked so well because we: 

Limited the number of bases 

Used high-speed trains 

Chose family-friendly accommodation 

 

Diagram of our route from Rome to Milan by train

Northern vs Southern Italy: What’s Easier with Kids?

Italy varies hugely from north to south, and that can affect how easy it feels with children. 

Northern & Central Italy 

Excellent train connections 

Short travel times 

Ideal for short and medium-length trips 

Tropea beach and castle view from Tropea Centre travel guide on Tropea

Southern Italy & Islands 

Slower pace of travel 

Trains still work, but planning matters more 

Better suited to fewer bases 

Fewer child-friendly accommodation options (no Eurocamps) but lots of villa options.

If you’re considering the south, these guides are a good starting point: 

4 Days in Sicily 

4 Days in Calabria 

Exploring Reggio Calabria & Nearby Towns 

How to Travel Between Mainland Italy and Sicily 

Scilla fishing village Chainlea

Campsites vs Cities – Which Is Better for Families?

This is one of the biggest decisions families face when planning Italy. 

City stays tend to work best if: 

Your kids enjoy sightseeing 

You’re away for a shorter period 

You don’t mind busy days 

Campsites are ideal if: 

You’re travelling for a week or more 

Kids need space to play 

You want pool days between city visits 

We often combine the two, using campsites as relaxed bases and visiting cities by train. 

These guides break it down in more detail: 

Eurocamps in Italy – A Complete List 

How to Do Eurocamp Without a Car 

Where to Stay in Italy: Budget & Bucket List Hotels 

How to Do Eurocamp Without a Car: The Ultimate Guide
eurocamps vs hotels where to stay

A Realistic Look at Budget

Italy has a reputation for being expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. 

Travelling by train often: 

Costs less than car hire + fuel 

Avoids toll roads and parking fees 

Makes multi-city trips more affordable 

Accommodation choice and trip length make the biggest difference to overall cost. 

If budget is a key factor, these guides will help: 

Italy on a Budget: Real Travel Tips 

10 Affordable Destinations in Italy 

So… Which Italy Train Itinerary Is Right for Your Family?

If you’re still unsure, here’s a simple way to decide: 

3–4 days → Combine two nearby cities 

7 days → One base + train day trips 

10–16 days → Multi-base Italy adventure 

If your kids love pools and downtime, fewer bases work best. 

If they enjoy cities and walking, shorter trips are often ideal. 

If you're not ready for a full itinerary yet, an Extreme Day Trip is a great taster. We've done Rome as an Extreme Day Trip and it's surpsingly doable if you plan it well.

My Honest Recommendation

Italy is one of the most family-friendly countries in Europe to explore by train. As long as you choose an itinerary that fits the time you actually have. 

There’s no “perfect” Italy trip, only the right one for your family. 

Whether you’re planning a long weekend, a week away, or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, travelling Italy by train keeps things calmer, simpler, and far more enjoyable with kids. 

Want more of Italy?

 

Explore our complete Italy Travel Guide with multi-city train routes, family itineraries, budget trips and transport tips all in one place. 

👉 See all Italy guides here 

✈️ Want us to find trips like this for you? 

Our members-only Build a Break Travel Club receives hand-picked flight & hotel deals, Extreme Day Trips and multi-city Europe itineraries every week, all from UK and Ireland airports. 

👉 Join the Travel Club here 

Hu Norcenni Girasole Village Tuscany Review – Ideal for Families 

As a family of six, finding a family-friendly campsite in Tuscany that didn’t require a car was essential when planning our summer trip to Italy. 

We stayed at Hu Norcenni Girasole Village, set in the rolling Chianti hills, as part of our wider Italy by train 16 day adventure. It turned out to be one of the highlights of the trip, combining a proper resort-style holiday with easy rail access to Florence, Pisa and other Tuscan cities. 

In this review, I’ll share exactly what it’s like staying at Hu Norcenni Girasole Village with kids, including accommodation options, pools and entertainment, food, transport links, and whether it’s a good base for exploring Tuscany without driving. 

Hu Norcenni Girasole Village – At a Glance

Best for: Families wanting a resort-style stay in Tuscany 

Location: Chianti Hills, Tuscany 

Nearest station: Figline Valdarno 

Nearest airport: Florence / Pisa 

Car needed: No (but planning needed) 

On-site highlights: Huge pool complex, slides, kids clubs, restaurants 

Recommended stay: 4–7 nights 

Just a quick note before we begin – some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend places we’ve personally stayed in and genuinely think work well for families. 

Family by pool at Hu Norcenni campsite in Tuscany

Why We Chose Hu Norcenni Girasole Village

When planning our Italy trip, we wanted at least one base where the kids could switch off from sightseeing, swim all day, and just enjoy being on holiday. 

Hu Norcenni Girasole Village offered exactly that,  a large, lively campsite with multiple pool areas, restaurants, and entertainment, but still within easy reach of Florence by train. 

It was the perfect mid-point between Rome and Lake Garda and gave us a much-needed balance between travel days and downtime. 

Accommodation at Hu Norcenni Girasole Village: For our stay, we booked a 3-bedroom static caravan with air conditioning and a large deck, staying for 5 nights. 

Cost: £846 total (£141 per person) 

Sleeps: Up to 6 

Included: Kitchen, fridge-freezer, bathroom, outdoor seating 

The accommodation was clean, modern, and well spaced from neighbouring units. The deck area was ideal for evenings once the kids were asleep, and the air conditioning was essential in the Tuscan heat. 

one of the larger pools at Hu Norcienni Girosole in Tuscany

Accommodation at Hu Norcenni Girasole

Static caravans 

Glamping tents 

Camping pitches 

Larger premium lodges 

There’s something here for most budgets, especially if booked outside peak summer dates. 

Pools & On-Site Facilities (The Big Sell for Kids)

This is where Hu Norcenni really shines. 

Pool Complex 

There are multiple pool areas spread across the site, including: 

Large family pools 

Waterslides 

Shallow splash zones 

Sun terraces with views over the Chianti hills 

Accommodation at Hu Norcenni Girasole
The pools at the upper area of Hu Norcenni Girasole - Eurocamps in Italy

Unlike many Italian pools, swim hats weren’t enforced, and the atmosphere felt relaxed and family-focused rather than overly strict. There's an upper and lower site with pools at both - we preferred the upper area as it seemed newer with the best choice of pools. The two areas are connected by free land train.

Kids' Clubs & Entertainment

Age-based kids' clubs (seasonal) 

Mini discos and evening shows 

Sports courts and playgrounds 

Our kids spent most days moving between the pools, slides and snack bars, exactly what we wanted from this part of the trip.

'

Where to Eat at Hu Norcenni Girasole

You won’t go hungry here. 

On-Site Options Include: 

Large supermarket (ideal for self-catering) 

Pool bars serving pizzas, burgers, salads and ice creams 

Sit-down restaurants for evenings 

Takeaway options for easy nights in 

We mixed eating out with cooking at the caravan, which kept costs down and gave us flexibility after busy days out. 

Where to eat the Hu Norcenni Girasole

Getting to Hu Norcenni Girasole Village Without a Car (Train & Taxi)

This is one of the most common questions and yes, it’s doable but requires some planning as mentioned below.

Step-by-Step 

High-speed train from Rome to Florence (around 1.5 hours) 

Regional train from Florence to Figline Valdarno (around 50 minutes) 

Taxi from Figline Valdarno station to the campsite (around 15 minutes) 

The train from Rome was a doddle. It was the taxi ride that proved less straightforward. We were told there would be a taxi rank at the station, and there wasn't. A local gave us a lift in the end for €50 which wasn't ideal, but with luggage and no taxis available we didn't have much choice.  If arriving by train, I would advise you arrange a taxi directly with the site. Even better, hire a car.

Figline Valderno train station

We travelled here as part of our Italy Train Travel with Kids: 16 Day Route, using high-speed and regional trains between each base.

Day Trips from Hu Norcenni Girasole (By Train)

One of the biggest advantages of this site is its rail location.  You just have to be organised if travelling without a car. There is a pre-bookable shuttle from the site,  down to the train station (and reverse). This can be booked at the tourist info point in the centre. I'd advise you to book at least a day in advance, as spaces do fill up quickly and there is a limited number of services per day.

The bus costs around £1.50 for over 12s. Under 12s were free (this may have increased for 2026). 

They also have their own private taxi option which we used twice costing around £25.

Easy Day Trips Include: 

Florence – direct train, under 1 hour 

Pisa – around 1 hour 45 minutes via Florence 

Siena – possible with a train + bus combination 

Lucca – doable as a longer day trip 

We visited Florence and Pisa during our stay and found it manageable without feeling rushed, especially when balanced with pool days back at the campsite. 

Getting to Hu Norcenni Girasole from Florence Airport

Florence Airport (FLR) is the closest airport to Hu Norcenni Girasole Village and the most straightforward if you’re travelling without a car. 

Step-by-step route: 

From Florence Airport, take the Tram T2 directly into the city 

Journey time: ~20 minutes 

Stops at Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN) station 

From Firenze SMN, take a regional train to Figline Valdarno 

Journey time: ~50 minutes 

Trains run frequently throughout the day 

From Figline Valdarno station, travel to the campsite by: 

Pre-booked campsite shuttle 

Taxi arranged by the campsite 

Local taxi (if available) 

Top tip: 

If arriving late in the day or with luggage, arrange transport with the campsite in advance. We found local taxis unreliable without pre-booking. 

Florence from Hu Norcenni Girasole

Getting to Hu Norcenni Girasole from Pisa Airport

Pisa Airport (PSA) is a popular arrival point, especially for budget flights, and is still very doable without hiring a car. 

Step-by-step route: 

From Pisa Airport, take the PisaMover to Pisa Centrale 

Journey time: ~5 minutes 

From Pisa Centrale, take a train to Firenze SMN 

Journey time: ~1 hour 

High-speed or regional trains available 

From Florence SMN, continue to Figline Valdarno 

Regional train 

Journey time: ~50 minutes 

Final leg from Figline Valdarno → campsite via shuttle or taxi 

This route works well if you’re flying into Pisa and travelling onward by train as part of a wider Italy itinerary. 

Is Hu Norcenni Girasole Suitable Without a Car?

Yes- but with planning. 

While you won’t be popping out to nearby villages on a whim, the combination of trains and shuttle from the campsite, means you don’t feel stuck. In fact, for families who prefer not to drive in Italy, this setup removes a lot of stress. 

Day Trip to Florence from Hu Norcenni Girasole (Exact Route)

Florence was our easiest and most relaxed day trip from Hu Norcenni Girasole. 

Step-by-step: 

Travel from campsite to Figline Valdarno station 

Shuttle bus (pre-booked) 

Or campsite taxi 

Take a regional train to Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN) 

Journey time: ~50 minutes 

No seat reservations required 

Florence SMN station is centrally located, meaning: 

You can walk straight into the historic centre 

The Duomo, markets, museums and river are all within easy reach 

We found Florence ideal for a full day out without feeling rushed, especially when balanced with quieter pool days back at the campsite. 

Day Trip to Pisa from Hu Norcenni Girasole (Exact Route)

Pisa is a longer day but still very manageable by train. 

Step-by-step: 

Campsite → Figline Valdarno station 

Regional train to Florence SMN 

Change at Florence for a train to Pisa Centrale 

Total journey time: ~1 hour 45 minutes each way 

From Pisa Centrale, it’s around a 20-minute walk to the Leaning Tower, passing shops, cafés and gelato spots along the way. 

We combined Pisa with an early start and a relaxed afternoon back at the campsite, which worked well with kids. 

How Hu Norcenni Compares to Other Italian Campsites

Compared to Camping Village Fabulous (Rome): 

More resort-like 

Bigger pool complex 

Less city-focused 

Compared to Butterfly Camping (Lake Garda): 

Larger and busier 

Less walkable location 

More “all-in-one resort” feel 

Each worked perfectly for its place in our itinerary, and Hu Norcenni was ideal as the relaxation-heavy middle stop. 

Pros & Cons of Staying at Hu Norcenni Girasole

👍 What We Loved 

Huge pool areas 

Excellent facilities for kids 

Easy Florence access by train 

Great balance of relaxation and sightseeing 

 

Florence from Hu Norcenni Girasole
Pisa with kids - train journey from Florence to Pisa with children
Hu Norcenni Girasole Club where to eat

👎 Things to Consider 

Large site (lots of walking) 

Busy in peak summer 

Taxi required from the station 

Is Hu Norcenni Girasole Village Worth It?

Absolutely - especially for families wanting a proper Tuscan resort experience without hiring a car. 

If you’re planning a multi-stop Italy trip and want a break from constant travel days, Hu Norcenni Girasole Village is an excellent base. It gave our kids space to relax, while still allowing us to explore Tuscany by train. 

Read Next:

Camping Village Fabulous Rome Review 

Butterfly Camping Lake Garda Review 

Italy Train Travel with Kids: Our 16-Day Route 

Florence from Hu Norcenni Girasole

Want more on Italy?

Explore our complete Italy Travel Guide with multi-city train routes, family itineraries, budget trips and transport tips all in one place. 

👉 See all Italy guides here 

✈️ Want us to find trips like this for you? 

Our members-only Build a Break Travel Club receives hand-picked flight & hotel deals, Extreme Day Trips and multi-city Europe itineraries every week, all from UK and Ireland airports. 

👉 Join the Travel Club here 

Camping Village Fabulous Rome Review – Ideal for Families

As a family of six, finding child-friendly accommodation near Rome that doesn’t require a car was essential when planning our 16-day Italy by train itinerary.

Camping Village Fabulous Rome turned out to be the perfect base for exploring the city while still enjoying a proper summer holiday with pools, entertainment, space to relax, and excellent public transport links straight into Rome.

In this review, I’ll share exactly what it’s like staying at Camping Village Fabulous with kids, how easy it is to get into Rome, accommodation options, costs, on-site facilities, and whether it’s worth choosing over other campsites in Rome.

Camping Village Fabulous is a large park with around 800 pitches, located close to the Ostia coast and its beautiful beaches.

Not only that but there's public transport on the doorstep to take you straight into Rome. The perfect combination between a relaxing break in the sun and a city break.  

  • Best for: Families visiting Rome without a car
  • Location: Ostia / Rome
  • Nearest airport: Rome Fiumicino / Ciampino
  • Getting into Rome: Bus + Metro (step-by-step)
  • On-site highlights: Pools, kids clubs, entertainment
  • Length of stay recommended: 3–10 nights
Blog cover of our review of Camping Village Fabulous

Just a quick note before we begin- some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting our work and happy planning! 

Accommodation at Camping Village Fabulous Rome (Static Caravans & Glamping)

So for this visit we booked 3 nights in a 3 bed static caravan with deck which cost £435.

Last time we did a full week and did not want to leave at the end. We only booked the three nights this time as we had already seen many of the sights in Rome on our previous trip. We also needed to leave enough time to explore the Tuscan region and further north.

However, I think 7-10 days would be the perfect amount of time to spend here if you're visiting for the first time.  

The accommodation on both occasions was modern, well kept and clean, in a quiet location away from the centre.

At Camping Village Fabulous you'll find a mix of accommodation from camping pitches and room for motor homes, to glamping tents and static caravans. There's something for every type of camper. 

In terms of the static caravan accommodation we hired, the equipment you'll find inside varies, but will usually include a microwave, kettle, hob, fridge, freezer plus all cooking utensils and equipment.

They may also have a dishwasher and oven. In some cases you may be required to pay extra for duvet covers and pillow cases or bring your own, I'll mention more on this near the end. 

Camping Village Fabulous Rome static caravan with deck
Glamping Tents at Camping Village Fabulous Rome

How to Get into Rome from Camping Village Fabulous (Without a Car)

Transfer time from both Rome airports is approximately 25 minutes. We flew into Rome Ciampino and paid €75 for a one-way private transfer, covering the 21 km journey. You can book a private transfer with our special discount here.

A taxi from outside the airport costs around €45. Alternatively, Uber is available in Rome and typically costs around €50.

The nearest airport is Rome Fiumicino (FCO), located 17.5 km away. In practice, there’s very little difference between the two airports when it comes to transfer times, and we’ve flown into both for this site and paid similar prices each time.

This is one of Eurocamp’s best car-free sites, and it features in our guide to Eurocamps in Italy you can visit without a car.

You can also see the full range of sites available in our Complete Guide to Eurocamps in Italy.

Driving from the UK to Rome

The site is located 1681km from Calais (a 16 hour drive), but of course, you can break this up with others stays en route in France and Switzerland. 

Alternatively, you could take ferries to Zeebrugge - 1620km, Hook of Holland - 1675km or Caen - 1638km

For ferries click here 
Family-friendly campsite pool at Camping Village Fabulous Rome

Things to Do at Camping Village Fabulous with Kids

Pools

The pool area offers a variety of water features suitable for all ages. There are two larger pools with deeper water, alongside a large shallow lagoon pool. You’ll also find two whirlpools, a slide, a dome that children can climb and slide down, and a newer splash zone.

The pools are free to use and remain open all day, with no siesta closures. Unlike some sites in Italy, swim hats and tight-fitting swimwear are not required, which is always a bonus.

Sun loungers are plentiful, although if you head to the pool around lunchtime during high season, you may struggle to find one available.

The pool areas are well supervised by lifeguards and kept clean, with toilet and changing facilities located nearby.

While the website states that inflatables are not allowed in the pools, many guests were using them during our stay, and they are also sold on site.

Kids Clubs

The campsite runs its own kids’ clubs for ages 5-8yrs and 9-12yrs, with English and Italian Spoken. Activities are advertised on boards around the camp. We didn't use any of the clubs as my children prefer to be in the pool all day so I can't comment on the quality of activities provided.

small children's pool area at Camping Village Fabulous
slide and pool area at Camping Village Fabulous in Rome

Family Entertainment

Whilst we were there, most nights there were musicians in the courtyard area where the bar and restaurant are located.

There was also mini discos and shows in the entertainment area near to the pool complex. Some nights there was special events such as foam parties for the whole family which was really fun. 

Sports

On site you'll find plenty to do including crazy golf, 2 playgrounds, kart hire, trampolining, table tennis, tennis, football and volleyball. 

The entertainment team provide pool bike classes, aqua aerobics and water polo throughout the day. Most activities are open 8th April to 30th September. 

Off-Site Activities

Off-site you'll find sporting activities to do in the local area. These include Golf (7km), Driving Range (7km), Horse Riding (8km), Climbing Wall (4km) & Windsurfing (11km).

foam party evening entertainment

Where to Eat On Site

Mini Market

On site you'll find a well stocked mini market offering all types of foods you'd expect at home including BBQ food and equipment, bakery items, fresh fruit and vegetables, alcohol, toiletries and cleaning supplies. We were able to shop and make meals to enjoy back at our caravan. 

The supermarket does close for a few hours during the day for a siesta, so make sure you check the opening times when you arrive.

Prices are typically more than other local supermarkets but not extortionate.

Pool Bar

Located within the pool complex you'll find a bar serving fast food like burgers, hot dogs, fries, nuggets, pizza, panini's, focaccia and a large selection of salads. Along with this they sell alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks and ice creams.

They offer a meal deal with a main, fries and drink for €9-11. We ate round the pool most lunch times on both trips as the kids didn't want to leave to go back to eat.  We found the service, quality of food and value for money to be good. During siesta it’s the only place to get food on site so it does get really busy.

camping village fabulous mini market
Pool Bar at Camping Village Fabulous

Takeaway

In the courtyard you'll find a takeaway offering pizza and pasta to take back to your accommodation or eat at one of the many picnic benches on site.

Food can be ordered and paid for using the app (see the QR Codes posted round the site) or at the counter. We used this option quite a few times on both visits, rather than having to cook of an evening. The pizzas were great for sharing and were proper authentic stone baked bases. 

Ristorante Favoloso

In the evening the restaurant is open serving typical Italian meals on it's outdoor verandah. 

Central Bar

In the morning they offer breakfast in the central bar with sweet and savoury options

Gelateria

The gelateria offers ice cream and cocktails and is open till late at night. Again this closes for a siesta through the day but you can get ice cream and drinks at the pool bar all day. 

take away pizzas at camping village fabulous
Restaurant at Camping Village Fabulous Rome

Getting in to Rome from Camping Village Fabulous

Getting into Rome from here is easy, although a bit hair raising as you have to walk up a busy road for about 200m with no pavement to get to the bus stop. 

You can purchase combination bus/tube tickets from the reception desk for €1.50 each, under 10s are free.

When you exit the campsite turn left. Walk 200m till you reach the main road. You will see the bus stop on the opposite side of the road,  to the left of the crossing.

Use the marked crossing to cross to the other side of the road. 

The buses you can take are numbers 709 or 070.

Once on the bus you have to validate your ticket using the machine and your 100 minutes starts from then.

You take the bus to EUR Fermi tube station which is the last stop on the bus. 

After you exit the bus, go into the metro station and take the tube in the direction of either Rebibba or Conca D'Oro (it doesn't matter which)- see the blue line on the metro map. Take the train 8 stops to the Colosseum. 

bus stop at Camping village fabulous for Rome

I’d recommend buying your return ticket directly from the campsite to save the hassle of using ticket machines or searching for a tobacconist in Rome.

Both the buses and metro operate between 6am and 11.30pm.

Things to do in Rome with Children

Rome is a city brimming with adventure and excitement for kids! They can explore the ancient Colosseum, imagining the thrilling gladiator battles that took place there.
 
The Roman Forum offers a glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome, while the Vatican City, with its stunning art and the famous Sistine Chapel, sparks curiosity about history and religion.
 
Kids will love tossing coins into the Trevi Fountain, making wishes as they admire its beauty. Don’t forget to indulge in delicious gelato while roaming the lively streets, and perhaps take a fun family bike ride through the idyllic Villa Borghese park.

The park itself offer excursions to Rome, Ostia Antica, Tivoli, Pompei and Naples which can be booked via their tourist info office on site. Alternatively, you can arrange your own tours in advance. 

Things to do in Rome with kids- the Trevvi Fountain
the colosseum Rome with kids

Some FAQs

Are Dogs Allowed at Camping Village Fabulous?

Dogs are permitted in selected accommodation types and allowed on the park, however they must be kept on a lead at all times when outside the accommodation. 

Are Cars Allowed on Site?

A car can be parked on a pitch and there is no charge for additional vehicles.

Is the Site Suitable for Wheelchairs

This park is suitable for customers in wheelchairs, although you may need to check the type of accommodation is also wheel chair friendly before booking. 

What other Facilities are there that you haven't mentioned?

The site has toilet and shower blocks along with washing machines and dryers. There's also washing up sinks. These facilities are mainly intended for those camping or in camper vans but anyone can use them.

camping village fabulous deck area
Camping Village Fabulous Rome

What to Pack for a Camp Site Holiday

Along with everything you'd normally take on holiday, as a family we always make up a little package of things to get us started in case things aren't provided and shops are closed when we arrive.

Kitchen

Usually we bring a few basics like a couple of tea towels, a scourer and a fill one of the mini toiletry bottles with washing up liquid. I'll usually pop a few extra toilet rolls and matches in the case too. 

I'll bring a packet of anti bacterial floor wipes to give everything a freshen up- I prefer the floor type as they're much bigger and stronger. 

We save up sachets and bring salt, sugar, tomato ketchup and again using a toiletry 100ml bottle to bring some cooking oil.  

Games

Lastly we usually bring a few small games such as Uno and Pass the Pigs.

Taco, Cat, Goat, Cheese, Pizza is another family favourite. Bizarre sounding but very fun. You can find all these in the above shopping list 

There really isn't much more to pack though than a regular holiday. Caravans are well equipped and the store on site sells literally everything you could probably need. 

 

Clothes Washing

For washing we take Dr Beckman's magic leaves (see our shopping list) so we can hand wash clothing in the sink. These take up very little space and can be used in a washing machine too. Clothes airers are usually provided in the accommodation but we bring two of our own caravan washing lines too.

Lastly I usually put in a few bin bags as they are always needed and some citronella candles for the deck at night to ward away any mosquitos.

This may sound a lot of extra things to bring but it all fits nicely in 1 packing cube or zip lock bag. 

Bedding

In terms of bedding, this isn't always provided (check individual listings). This can be hired but you can also bring your own. We tend to save up old sets and then we can bin them if we haven't room to bring them back. The cost of hiring is usually around €100 for 5 beds. On this occasion we were changing accommodation three times so we were definitely bring our own than pay €300. 

caravan packing list

How Does it Compare to other Holiday Sites in Italy?

Camping Village Fabulous is literally that- Fabulous!

If you haven't visited in the last 4 years, the site has seen some big improvements in terms of pools and entertainment. Between our two visits the 'Human Company' have take over the park and standardised the site in line with others they operate. Entertainment is more varied and they've added a new pool and splash zone. 

We have stayed in numerous sites in Europe, and whilst this isn't our most favourite as some are literally incredible, it is a great holiday and great value with the massive plus point of being very close to Rome and a site we'll definitely return to for years to come.

Other Campsites in Rome

Village Roma Capital- Smaller than Camping Village Fabulous but usually cheaper too is located near to Ostia Beach (2.6km) and Rome (27.6km). Slightly further out than Village Fabulous but still within easy reach of the city

Find Details here

Plus points

👍Great pool area

👍Close proximity to the airport

👍Easy to visit the city with no car

👍Small site so easy to navigate

 

Downsides

👎The site is pretty basic in terms of entertainment in comparison to some of the bigger sites we’ve visited

👎The site can be really noisy at night with large groups of people meeting up and partying in one caravan

👎We found it really difficult to a taxi on Uber or FreeTaxi from the site, this may be because we were a party of 6 though and not 4. The public transport from the site though is adequate. 

👎In the day, options for food on site are limited. The shop and restaurants are closed for a siesta and there's only the pool bar unless you want to cook in your caravan. This also means that the pool area becomes very busy in turn.

Hu Norcenni Girasole Tuscany Review
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Italy Train Travel with Kids: The Ultimate 16 Day Adventure

As a family of six, we booked our biggest adventure yet—exploring Italy by train over 16 days, visiting Rome, Florence, Chianti, Pisa, Venice, Milan, Verona, and Lake Garda.

Trying to do this on a budget was a challenge, however the whole trip came in at £680 per person. 

This included return flights from the UK, luggage, private airport transfers, all train journeys (including 5 high speed trains in 1st class) and accommodation for 15 nights. 

In this guide, we’ll share exactly how we planned our route, booked flights and trains, and chose family-friendly accommodations, so you can plan your own Italian adventure with kids.

Why Travel Italy by Train with Kids?

Train travel in Italy with children is a fantastic way to see the country. The trains are reliable and comfortable, making it easy to relax and enjoy the journey as a family.

High-speed trains connect cities quickly and affordably, and the views along the way are often just as memorable as the destinations themselves, with rolling hills, vineyards and charming towns passing by the window.

Travelling by train can also help you save money and avoid the stress of driving. Italy’s narrow roads and busy traffic can be challenging, particularly with children, whereas the train allows you to sit back, unwind and enjoy the scenery instead.

Italian train station with children and luggage

Watch the Video

Italy Train Trip at a Glance

• Duration: 16 days
• Travelling with: 4 kids
• Route: Rome → Florence → Chianti → Pisa → Venice → Verona → Milan → Lake Garda
• Total cost: £680 per person
• Travel style: Trains + family-friendly campsites
• Best for: Families wanting multi-city Italy without driving

Just a quick note before we begin- some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting our work and happy planning! 

Flights: How We Found the Cheapest Options

Although it’s possible to travel from the UK to Europe entirely by train, for us in the north of England this would have been significantly more expensive than flying. It also would have meant an extra night in London at both the start and end of the trip, which quickly pushed the costs up.

Instead, we found it far cheaper to fly directly to mainland Europe and begin our travels from there, so that’s the approach we took.

To plan our route, the first thing we looked at was flights. As we were trying to keep the trip as affordable as possible, it made sense to base our itinerary around which Italian cities had the cheapest flights in August, then fill in the destinations in between. For a family of six, flights are always the biggest cost variable, far more so than accommodation.

We used Skyscanner to compare outbound and return flights across Italy and find the cheapest options.

One of the most useful features is the ability to search the whole country over an entire month, rather than selecting a fixed date or arrival city, which makes it much easier to plan a flexible, multi-stop trip like this

Cost breakdown of an Italy train trip by category

We made a 'one-way' search from Manchester to Italy and then the same for Italy to Manchester. 

If you're planning a trip like this we would recommend booking a different city to return from, than the one you arrive in. This allows you to plan a trip a fair distance away from the arrival airport without having to circle back and waste money on extra train fares just to get home.

Don't forget to check out our guide Italy on a Budget for more fab tips on travelling cheaply. 

Finding cheap flights to Italy using Skyscanner
how to get cheap flights to Italy using Skyscanner

Rome to Milan by Train

We eventually chose to fly from Manchester to Rome and return home from Milan Bergamo.

Our outbound flight cost £510.22 in total (£85 per person). The return flight 16 days later from Milan Bergamo came to £500.73 (£84 per person), with both fares including two 20kg checked suitcases.

The overall flight cost could have been much lower if we’d booked earlier in the year during flight sales or travelled in a different month. August is typically the most expensive time to fly to Italy, and we only started planning this trip in June, around six weeks before departure.

At other times of year, we regularly find return flights to Italy for between £28–£50 per person. If you take a look at our other Italy blog posts, we’ve shared a few of these trips as reference.

With flights booked, the next step was deciding where to stay between Rome and Milan.

Total Flight Cost £1011 (£169pp)
Map showing Rome to Milan train route

Accommodation in Italy: Campsites and Family-Friendly Stays

Our main priority for accommodation was finding places that were child-friendly, offering a balance between a proper summer holiday and sightseeing around Italy.

We didn’t want to drag the kids around in the heat, visiting attractions they might not enjoy, only to spend the rest of the day cooped up in hotel rooms.

Instead, we chose campsites as our bases. Having stayed at similar sites in Rome and Venice before, we knew they were perfect for families. Offering pools, slides, and on-site entertainment for the kids, as well as practical amenities like laundrettes, bars, restaurants, and supermarkets.

Many of these campsites offer space for tents and campervans, but we opted for fully equipped static caravans with verandas. These gave us the freedom to cook our own meals and relax outside in the evenings while the kids were in bed.

At each site booked a 3 bed static caravan with large deck and air-con, the prices were as follows:

Camping Village Fabulous in Rome £437.32 (£73pp)- Nights 1-3 (3 nights)

Hu Norcenni Girasole Club, Tuscany £846 (£141pp)- Nights 4-8 (5 nights) 

Butterfly Camping, Lake Garda £872 (£146pp)- Nights 9-15 (7 nights)

Family-friendly campsite pool at Camping Village Fabulous Rome
Total Accommodation Cost £2155 (£359pp)

You can see an in-depth blog on each of these campsites, including our reviews, things to do in the local area plus more details on getting around - Butterfly Camping Lake Garda Guide, Hu Norcenni Girasole Tuscany Guide and Camping Village Fabulous Rome Guide. 

Building Our Italy Train Itinerary

Once we had decided on our three bases—Rome, Chianti Hills (Tuscany), and Peschiera Del Garda (Lake Garda), we could start booking train tickets and planning the destinations we wanted to visit.

From Chianti, we planned day trips by train to Rome and Florence (1–2 hours away). We had originally hoped to visit Cinque Terre, but as it’s not on the high-speed train network, a round trip in a single day from Chianti wasn’t feasible. Other options from Chianti included Lucca and Siena.

Peschiera Del Garda offered the most convenient day trips. Venice, Verona, and Milan were all within 20 minutes to 1.5 hours by train, so we added these to our itinerary. Further options included Bologna, Parma, and even Lake Como.

For Rome, we decided to take it easy, just enjoy the city and get our bearings, before heading on to the next stage of our journey.

Interrail Pass vs Purchasing Individual Train Tickets

When planning our Italy itinerary, we carefully compared the options between booking an Interrail pass and purchasing individual tickets, for each leg.

Ultimately, we decided to go with individual tickets as it became clear that for our specific routes and travel dates, buying tickets separately was going to be cheaper. 

In terms of our party, for some trains (regional) we were classed as 4 adults and 2 children. For 1st class high speed trains we fell under the category of 3 adults and 3 children.

Below you'll find a full  breakdown of the train journeys we took and which type of train/class we got. I have also included journey times and prices.

Diagram of our route from Rome to Milan by train

1st Class vs Standard Class

 For the longer journeys we splurged and purchased 1st class seats on high speed trains. These were great as they gave us lots of room in air conditioned carriages with tables, power points and Wi-Fi. On some journeys we were also provided with free refreshments.

As we booked 6 weeks beforehand, the 1st class tickets were a very similar price to the 2nd class on the day fares. It didn't seem a big extravagance and it made the journeys far more comfortable. 

All in we purchased a total of 84 train tickets across 6 days, costing £678 (£113pp).

The interrail pass for travel just within Italy for 6 days with upgrades to first class where available is £965. In our case it was definitely cheaper to book the tickets individually. 

Free snacks and drinks on an Italian high-speed train

Types of Trains in Italy

In Italy, there are three different types of trains. Some are high speed (Le Frecce and Italo), these are the most expensive, but also the quickest and usually the most comfortable. In some cases we managed to book high speed trains for cheaper than the slow counterparts as some had offers on when booking.

Then there's intercity trains which connect cities with fewer stops. Finally there are the regional trains. These tend to be slower, calling at more stops and they don't have reserved seating, but they also tend to be the cheapest option.

Some areas in Italy aren't as well connected such as Cinque Terre, so here you'll only find regional trains available. 

Should I Book Italy Train Tickets in Advance?

Yes! as mentioned earlier, we paid the same for 1st class high speed trains booked in advance, as what we would have paid on the day for a slower intercity train.

It is definitely worth booking your main journeys in advance, as these dates tend to be set in stone with your accommodation dates. 

For more localised journeys such as Lake Garda to Verona, the price difference is small on the day, so if you would like to play days out by ear then leave these ones flexible. 

1st class train seats from Rome to Florence - high-speed trains with kids

How Early do you Need to get to the Train Station in Italy?

For bigger city stations I'd recommend a good 20 minutes beforehand. Some stations are more like airports and depending on which door you enter it can be quite a walk to the platforms. The last thing you want is to be panicking and rushing to find your platform.

Getting there in good time allows you to get your bearings, check the arrivals board and stand on the right part on the platform.

If you have a pre-booked seat in a specific carriage, there's nothing worse than having to rush aboard, then walk the length of a train to find where you're sat with all your bags. 

For regional stations 5-10 mins is more than adequate. Trains run on time in Italy so definitely be there beforehand.

Are Children Free on Trains in Italy?

In most cases children under 4yrs old travel free. Children up to 14 years may travel at a highly discounted fare when riding on high speed trains. For other trains the maximum child age is 11 years. 

We found that my daughter who was 13yrs at the time was classed as a child fare on high speed trains, but an adult on the regional ones.

It's best to play around and price it up online, as it may therefore be cheaper to take a high speed train depending on your children's ages. 

Figline Valdarno train station in Tuscany

Can I take Luggage on Trains in Italy?

With high speed trains there are luggage racks at the end of each carriage. On regional trains, there are no racks and it's expected you keep your luggage with you.

In all cases please keep your most valuable items, money and passports on your person at all times. 

Should I purchase tickets online or at the Station?

I would always recommend purchasing online before your trip. Not only can you save money but you're also guaranteeing your seat and some high speed trains can sell out.

If you are purchasing regional train tickets at the station, you need to remember to validate your ticket before boarding using one of the machines on the platform otherwise you could face a fine. 

To purchase online we used a combination of Trenitalia (the Italian train website), Trainline and Trip.Com (Often a little easier to navigate).

Florence train station with kids - waiting area

Our Italy Train Journeys (Full Breakdown)

Day 3: Rome to Chianti (Tuscany) £23pp

Rome Tiburtina to Firenze S.M. Novella: 1st Class High Speed train, Journey Time: 1hr 30 mins, total cost £94 (£16pp)

Florence to Figline Valdarno, Regional train 2nd Class, Journey Time: 58 mins, total cost £38 (£7pp)

Day 6: Day Trip to Florence and Pisa from Chianti £26pp

Figline Valdarno (Chianti) to Firenze S.M. Novella (Florence), Regional Train, 2nd Class, Journey time 58 mins, total cost £25 (£4pp)

Firenze S.M. Novella (Florence) to Pisa Centrale, Regional Train, 2nd Class, Journey time 52 mins £50 (£9pp)

Day 8: Chianti (Tuscany) to Peschiera Del Garda (Lake Garda) £19pp

Figline Valdarno to Firenze S.M. Novella (Florence), Regional Train, 2nd Class, Journey time 58 mins, total cost £25 (£4pp)

Firenze S.M. Novella (Florence) to Peschiera Del Garda, High Speed, 1st Class, Journey time 1hr 58 mins, total cost £85 (£15pp)

Pisa with kids - train journey from Florence to Pisa with children

Day 11: Day Trip to Verona from Lake Garda £6pp

Peschiera Del Garda to Verona Porta Nuova: Regional Train, 2nd class, Journey time:19 minutes £16 (£3pp)

Verona Porta Nuova to Peschiera Del Garda: Regional Train, 2nd class, Journey time:19 minutes £16 (£3pp)

Day 13: Day Trip to Venice from Lake Garda £17pp

Peschiera Del Garda to Venice (Venezia Santa Lucia), High Speed Train (Frecciargento), journey time: 1hr 22 mins, total cost £48 (£8pp)

Venice to Peschiera Del Garda 2nd class train with a change in Verona, journey time: 1hr 45 mins, total cost £55 (£9pp)

Day 15: Day Trip to Milan from Lake Garda £22pp

Peschiera Del Garda to Milan (Milano Centrale), 1st Class Seats-High Speed Train (Frecciargento), journey time: 57 mins, total cost £62 (£11pp)

Milan (Milano Centrale) to Peschiera Del Garda, 1st Class Seats-High Speed Train (Frecciargento), journey time: 57 mins, total cost £62 (£11)

Peschiera del Garda in South Lake Garda, Italy, with harbour views and lakeside walkway

Airport Transfers in Italy

From Rome Ciampino Airport to Camping Village Fabulous we paid £64 for a private van for 6 people (£11pp)

Butterfly Camping in Peschiera del Garda to Milan Bergamo, we again booked a private transfer, this time costing £167 (£28pp)

The nearest airport to Peschiera Del Garda is Verona, however the flights were £600 more expensive than from Milan, so it made more sense to fly out of Milan Bergamo and pay a little more on the transfer. 

Total cost for Private Airport Transfers £231 (£39pp)

book airport transfers in italy

Luggage Tips for Italy Train Travel

For luggage we tried to keep this as minimal as possible as lugging cases round Italy and on so many trains isn't my idea of fun. We stuck to two cases weighing 20kg and then a back pack for each person.

One case was purely for towels and bedding. In static accommodation in Italy, you're usually required to provide your own duvet cover and pillowcases or rent it from the site. The cost of this is around £20 per bed, which doesn't sound too bad. However, as we were changing accommodation three times over the trip, this would have been £300 extra.

We save up old bedding instead of throwing it away for these kind of trips. Then at the end we can dispose of it guilt free and have lots of spare room to bring any souvenirs back.  

The three accommodations we booked all had laundry facilities, so this meant we didn't need to pack clothes to last us the full 16 days.

caravan packing list

We took around 7 day outfits, 2 evening ones, 2 swimming costume and 1-2 pairs of shoes per person on top of the ones we travelled in. 

Luggage costs were included in the flight price above.

Our Tips for Travelling Italy by Train with Kids

  • Purchase tickets in advance to avoid queues at the stations.
  • If possible reserve seats in advance. For busy trains its always preferential to have a seat rather than having to stand with children
  • Have snacks and drinks ready for the journey; children can get hungry, especially during longer trips and some of the trains aren't air conditioned so it can get really hot. You also won't find buffet carts or trolleys on most regional trains either.
  • Engage kids with travel games to keep them entertained during the rides. You can find our top purchases for keeping children entertained whilst travelling here 
  • Be mindful of train schedules to ensure smooth transitions from one destination to the next- remember little legs won't be able to move as fast as an adults, so allow plenty of time.
  • Plan some downtime between excursions to allow the kids to relax and recharge. Italy is very hot in the summer and children want time to just be kids too. 

We would absolutely recommend a trip like this with children. Train travel in Italy is straightforward and family-friendly, making it easy to explore large regions of the country in a single trip. For roughly the same cost as a 7-night package holiday in Spain, we enjoyed 15 nights of travel and made countless unforgettable memories.

Since this trip, we’ve gone on to plan several more Italy adventures by train, including a 4-night itinerary from Turin to Verona and a Venice to Verona trip. Plus, I've had several solo adventures in  Southern Italy and Sicily, all using public transport.

We’re also looking forward to exploring Naples and the Amalfi Coast by public transport this Easter.

Butterfly Camping Lake Garda Review
Hu Norcenni Girasole Tuscany Review
Camping Village Fabulous Rome Blog

Want more Italy?

Explore our complete Italy Travel Guide with multi-city train routes, family itineraries, budget trips and transport tips all in one place. 

👉 See all Italy guides here 

✈️ Want us to find trips like this for you? 

Our members-only Build a Break Travel Club receives hand-picked flight & hotel deals, Extreme Day Trips and multi-city Europe itineraries every week, all from UK and Ireland airports. 

👉 Join the Travel Club here 

Italy on a Budget: Real Tips to Travel Italy Cheaply

Italy on a Budget: Tips, Hacks & Travel Secrets

Italy is a dream destination which can be expensive, however, there are so many ways you can save money on your trip. With some planning, you can enjoy everything from the canals of Venice to the beaches of Sicily. 

We’ve visited Italy more times than we can count, with kids in tow, just the two of us, and even solo—and along the way we’ve learned how to do Italy without spending a fortune.

In this guide, we’ll cover all the hacks and tips you need to travel Italy cheaply, including flights, accommodation, transport, packing, and food. We’ll also link to some of our budget-friendly Italy trips for inspiration.

1. How to Find Cheap Flights to Italy

Use flexible search tools

 Search for “Italy” instead of a specific city on Skyscanner.

Instead of searching for a specific city, try typing “Italy” instead. This will show you the cheapest airports to fly into across the country.

Airfare can vary significantly from day to day. Mid-week flights, especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays, are often cheaper than weekend departures. Use the “flexible dates” or “whole month” options in flight search tools to compare prices.

💡 Pro Tip: Sometimes shifting your trip by just a few days can reduce flights by 20–30%.

Last-minute deals:

If you’re planning a short trip, last-minute flights can be cheaper than booking far in advance. For budget airlines, the sweet spot is usually 4–6 weeks before departure. Booking too early or too late can sometimes mean higher prices.

Use Fare Alerts

Sign up for fare alerts from budget airlines or flight comparison tools. This way, you’ll be notified immediately when prices drop or a flash sale appears. Flights at rock-bottom prices sometimes only last a few hours!

 

Italy on a Budget as a Large Family: Our £100 Trip itineary - Lake Garda
Peschiera Del Garda

Split airports

Flying into one city and out of another can be cheaper than a round-trip ticket from the same airport. For example, flying into Venice and returning from Rome. Or Turin in the north and leaving from Verona, can often save money while letting you see more of Italy. We often fly into one airport and return from another, and it saves us a lot of money.

Avoid extra fees

Budget airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air often charge for extras like seat selection, hold luggage, and even priority boarding.

Seat selection

Let the airline assign seats randomly to save £10–£20 per person.

Hand luggage only

For a short trip, a backpack is often enough and avoids costly checked bag fees.

Pack carefully 

Check your airline’s luggage rules; EasyJet and Ryanair differ slightly, and even a small mistake can cost extra.

.

Extra Tips for Families

 Traveling with kids? Some airlines offer free or discounted seats for children under 12.

Consider flying at less convenient times (early morning or late evening), which can often be cheaper.

Book for the whole family at once to lock in the best rates rather than buying tickets separately.

See our 7 Night Itinerary: Flying in to Venice and out of Verona

2. Accommodation Hacks

Finding the right place to stay can make or break a budget trip to Italy. Hotels in city centres can be expensive, especially for families, but there are plenty of alternatives that are cheaper, spacious, and just as comfortable.

Apartments and Holiday Rentals

For families or groups, renting an apartment can be far more cost-effective than booking multiple hotel rooms. Apartments often come with:

  • A kitchen to cook your own meals

  • Washing machines to reduce packing

  • Extra space for kids to play or relax

💡 Pro Tip: We use Airbnb, Booking.com  and  Expedia.com to find the best prices. Sometimes staying slightly outside the city centre can save 20–40%, while still being close to public transport. We find holiday rentals great for cities. Being a family of six we will quite often need two rooms in a hotel which is costly and they aren't guaranteed to be next door to each other.

Holiday Parks and Campsites

Italy has some fantastic holiday parks and campsites, especially near lakes, beaches, and popular attractions. These often include:

  • Bedding and towels (no need to pack heavy linens)

  • Pools, playgrounds, and entertainment for kids

  • Kitchens or barbecue areas for self-catering meals

Staying in a campsite or holiday park can feel like a mini-resort while keeping costs much lower than hotels.

If you’re interested in this style of travel, check out our full guide on Eurocamps in Italy. 

We also have a guide on which are the best Car Free Eurocamps to visit in Europe, which also features some of our favourite Italian camp sites.

How to Do Eurocamp Without a Car: The Ultimate Guide
Eurocamp: Marina De Venezia - Venice

Hostels & B&Bs

Smaller towns and less touristy cities often have affordable hostels or B&Bs. These can be a great option if you’re:

  • Traveling solo or as a couple

  • Looking for local recommendations and tips from hosts

  • Wanting to meet other travellers

💡 Tip: Many hostels in Italy now offer private family rooms, combining privacy with the budget benefits of a hostel.

💡 Pro Tip: On our site, check our Italy trips for inspiration on budget-friendly stays.

Booking Tips

Flexible booking: Use platforms that allow free cancellation; prices often fluctuate.

Split stays: Spend 1–2 nights in each city instead of staying in one expensive location.

Check amenities: A washing machine or kitchenette can save money on food and packing.

Book early for high season: Hotels and apartments fill fast in summer; booking in advance can lock in cheaper rates

3. Budget Transport in Italy

Getting around Italy can be surprisingly affordable if you know the tricks. Here’s how to save on trains, buses, and taxis while traveling smart.

Trains: Regional vs. High-Speed

Italy’s train network is extensive, but not all trains cost the same. 

  • High-speed trains (Frecciarossa, Italo): Fast and comfortable but expensive, especially for families. 
  • Regional trains: Slower but much cheaper—perfect for budget travelers. 

💡 Pro Tip: Book tickets online through Trainline or Trenitalia .  We highly recommend booking any high-speed journey a few months in advance - this can save 50% compared to the on the day price. Plus there are sometimes offers you can take advantage of which aren't available on the day,

Local Transport

  • Public transport passes: Many cities offer daily or multi-day passes for buses, trams, and metro. These are cheaper than paying per ride. 
  • Taxis vs. shuttle buses: For small groups, sometimes a taxi is cheaper than a scheduled shuttle, especially if you split the cost. 
  • Travel light: Carrying just a backpack makes navigating trains and buses much easier. 
Italy Train Travel with Kids

Family-Friendly Tips

  • Children under a certain age often travel free or discounted on trains. 
  • Bring snacks and water for longer train journeys to avoid overpriced station purchases. 

💡 Pro Tip: Download apps like Rome2Rio or Google Maps to compare routes and costs for buses, trains, or taxis. 

4. Packing Tips for Italy on a Budget

Packing light isn’t just about convenience. It’s a real money-saver. Avoid baggage fees and make city-hopping easier with these tips. 

Travel Light

Backpacks over suitcases: Cheaper on budget airlines, easier on trains, and more convenient in small streets or cobbled towns. We use these backpacks for all our travel and they've been fantastic despite the amount of stick we've given them! 

Mix & match outfits: Pack versatile clothes that can be layered or worn multiple times. 

Space-Saving Tools

 Vacuum bags: Compress clothes to maximize space and fit more into smaller bags. We find these incredible space savers, especially for winter trips. We got ours here

Magic Leaves or compact laundry sheets: Ideal for handwashing essentials mid-trip and they even go in a washing machine. Click here for the ones we buy

Toiletries and Extras

Buy toiletries at the airport or pre-order online to collect at Boots after security (cheaper). This doesn't form part of your luggage allowance

Bring multi-purpose items like quick-dry towels or portable chargers to reduce extra purchases abroad. 

Family Travel Packing Tips

For kids, pack essentials in their own small backpack—keeps hands free and avoids sharing a big bag. 

Include a few “comfort items” (small toys or travel games) to make journeys smoother without extra bulk. 

If you’re travelling with a child still in a pram, it’s worth buying a pram travel bag for when it goes in the aircraft hold. You can use the extra space in the bag for nappies, towels, or blankets, which not only saves luggage space but also helps protect the pram from damage.

Check out our list on 20 most forgotten items when packing 

5. Saving Money on Food

Eating in Italy doesn’t have to be expensive. With a few smart choices, you can enjoy local cuisine without breaking the budget. 

Eat Like a Local

  • Small trattorias, pizzerias, and street food stalls are usually cheaper than tourist-focused restaurants. 
  • Try pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) or panini shops for quick, affordable meals. 

Lunch Over Dinner

Many restaurants offer cheaper lunch menus. Sometimes up to 50% off the dinner price. 

Self-Catering Options

Apartments or campsites with kitchens let you cook your own meals. A picnic by a lake or in a piazza can cost just a few euros per person and is a fun experience. 

Camping Village Fabulous Rome

Gelato and Snacks

  • Enjoy local gelato, but avoid the main tourist squares, where prices are inflated. 
  • Buy snacks and drinks at local supermarkets rather than convenience stores near major attractions. 

💡 Pro Tip: Plan a few meals in advance if staying in self-catering accommodation—shopping at local markets is cheap, fresh, and part of the Italian experience. 

6. Free & Cheap Activities in Italy

Exploring Italy doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In fact, some of the most memorable experiences are completely free, or very low cost. Here’s a few ideas. 

Explore Historic Squares and Neighbourhoods

Italy’s cities are full of charm, and much of it is free to enjoy: 

  • Wander the piazzas, watch street performers, and soak up local life. 
  • Explore historic neighborhoods like Trastevere in Rome or Brera in Milan. 
  • Admire fountains, statues, and architecture at no cost. 

💡 Pro Tip: Early mornings or late evenings are perfect for quieter, free sightseeing. 

Visit Churches and Cathedrals

  • Many Italian churches are free to enter, or accept a small donation. 
  • Even if you’re not religious, the architecture, frescoes, and art are incredible. 
  • Examples include Santa Maria Novella in Florence, San Marco in Venice, and Duomo di Milano (the piazza is free to explore if you skip the rooftop). 

Parks, Lakes, and Beaches

  • Italy has stunning public parks, gardens, and lakes. These are perfect for picnics, strolls, and people-watching. 
  • Lake Garda, Lake Como, and coastal areas like Cinque Terre offer free or low-cost access to natural beauty. 
  • Public beaches in Italy are usually free, though some may charge a fee for sunbeds or umbrellas. 

Walking Tours and Self-Guided Exploration

  • Download free walking tour apps or maps which are perfect for cities like Venice, Florence, and Verona. 
  • Explore local markets, artisan shops, and hidden corners for a taste of real Italy. 
  • Walking is not only free, it’s often the fastest way to get around historic centers. 
Rome and Naples in one trip

Museums and Cultural Sites

  • Many museums offer free entry days or reduced prices on specific days of the week. 
  • Some cities have cultural passes that bundle attractions for a cheaper price. 
  • Example: Rome’s first Sunday of the month offers free entry to most state museums. 

💡 Pro Tip: Research each city’s museum websites before you go to catch free or discounted entry times. 

Local Events and Festivals

  • Italian towns host free festivals, markets, and concerts throughout the year. 
  • Easter, summer festivals, and Christmas markets are all budget-friendly ways to enjoy Italian culture. 
  • Check local tourist offices or websites for free events during your visit. 

Family-Friendly Ideas

Many public squares have playgrounds or fountains where children can play for free. 

Lakes and beaches provide natural entertainment for kids without extra cost. 

Consider picnics in parks or by lakes instead of eating out for every meal. 

7. General Money-Saving Tips

  • Book trains and major attractions online in advance to avoid tourist markups.

  • Travel off-season for cheaper flights and accommodation.

  • Split costs: Traveling as a group? Share taxis, apartment rentals, and meals.

  • Use travel apps: Apps like Trainline, Google Maps, and Rome2Rio help avoid expensive mistakes.

8. Links to Our Italy Trips

For inspiration on budget-friendly itineraries, check out some of our Italy adventures:

16 Day Train Trip Round Italy with Kids - Rome, Venice, Verona, Florence, Pisa, Lake Garda, Milan

4 Days in Sicily from Mainland Italy

How to Travel to Rome with Kids: Budget Edition

 

See all our Italy Blogs & Guides 

Things to do in Venice with kids on holiday at Eurocamp Venice from Marina di Venezia camp site

Italy on a Budget: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Italy expensive to travel?

Italy can be expensive if you stick to tourist hotspots, hotels, and peak-season travel. However, with budget airlines, regional trains, self-catering accommodation, and free attractions, Italy can be surprisingly affordable—especially compared to destinations like Switzerland or France.

What is the cheapest month to visit Italy?

The cheapest months to visit Italy are usually January, February, November, and early March. Flights and accommodation are much cheaper outside of school holidays, and popular cities are far less crowded.

Can you travel Italy on a budget with kids?

Yes—Italy is actually very family-friendly on a budget. Apartments, campsites, and holiday parks like Eurocamp offer great value, while kids often travel free or discounted on public transport. Parks, beaches, lakes, and city squares provide plenty of free entertainment.

How much money do you need per day in Italy?

On a budget, many travelers spend €50–€80 per person per day, including accommodation, food, transport, and activities. Staying in apartments or campsites and using regional trains can bring costs down even further for families.

Is it cheaper to travel Italy by train or car?

For most budget travelers, trains are cheaper and easier than renting a car—especially in cities. Regional trains are affordable, reliable, and avoid parking fees, fuel costs, and city driving stress. Cars can make sense in rural areas but usually aren’t needed for city-based trips.

Traveling in Italy doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With a bit of planning, some smart choices, and a few handy hacks, you can enjoy flights, trains, meals, and accommodation without breaking the bank. Whether you’re going solo, as a couple, or with family, a budget-friendly Italian adventure is totally doable, and still full of the culture, food, and scenery that makes Italy so special.

If you’re planning your own Italy trip, have a look through our Italy itineraries and guides to see exactly how we keep costs low without missing the best bits.

7-Day Venice, Lake Garda & Verona Itinerary by Train & Ferries

Planning a trip to Northern Italy and want to combine Venice, Lake Garda and Verona in one easy, no-stress route? 

This 7-night, 8-day Northern Italy itinerary shows you exactly how to visit Venice (including Murano & Burano), Lake Garda and Verona without a car, using affordable and easy public transport throughout.

Perfect for first-timers, couples or families, this itinerary covers everything you need to plan your trip with confidence:

🏨 Where to stay in each destination, with tried-and-tested hotel recommendations
🚆 Exact transport routes and costs, including trains, ferries and airport transfers
🍝 Budget-friendly places to eat, from casual lunches to romantic dinners
✈️ A smart fly-into-one-city-and-out-of-another route, arriving in Venice and departing from Verona to save time and money

This guide is based on our own recent trip, includes realistic travel times, hotel recommendations for different budgets, and shows you exactly how to move between each destination step by step.

visit Murano from Marco Polo airport
Burano Itinerary from Murano Venice colourful rainbow houses
Scaligero Castle in Sirmione on Lake Garda
Juliet’s Balcony in Verona historic centre

Route summary: Venice → Murano → Burano → Venice → Desenzano del Garda → Sirmione → Verona
Total nights: Venice (3), Lake Garda (2), Verona (2)
Transport: Trains, ferries & taxis only
Best for: First-time visitors, couples, families

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7-Day Northern Italy Itinerary Overview

📍 Day 1 – Venice (Murano Island)
Arrive in Venice, travel by water bus from Marco Polo Airport and settle into Murano to ease into the trip.

📍 Day 2 – Burano & Venice
Visit colourful Burano in the morning, then continue on to Venice for your first night in the historic centre.

📍 Day 3 – Venice
Spend a full day exploring Venice on foot, including St Mark’s Square, Rialto Bridge and quieter neighbourhoods.

📍 Day 4 – Venice → Lake Garda (Sirmione)
Travel by train from Venice to Desenzano del Garda, then continue by taxi to Sirmione on Lake Garda.

📍 Day 5 – Lake Garda (Sirmione)
Explore Sirmione, visit the castle and Roman ruins, relax by the lake or enjoy the thermal spa.

📍 Day 6 – Lake Garda → Verona
Leave Lake Garda and take a short train journey to Verona, arriving in time to explore the historic centre.

📍 Day 7 – Verona
Discover Verona’s highlights including Juliet’s Balcony, Piazza delle Erbe and the Roman Arena.

📍 Day 8 – Depart from Verona
Travel from Verona city centre to the airport and fly home.

 

 

A Year of Budget Travel: 8 Low Cost Trips Taken in 2024

Sarah

Build a Break

Helping you plan DIY trips with smart routes, easy itineraries, and money-saving travel tips.

See More Italy Blogs & Guides See Our Latest Price Finds Join Our Travel Club (Coming Soon)

Day 1 – Arrive in Venice & Stay on Murano

How to Get from Venice Marco Polo Airport to Murano

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.

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. 

Water bus from Venice Marco Polo Airport to Murano
how to get the water bus from Venice airport
Follow the Blue Water Transport signs in the airport

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 maintain our website.

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 

hotels in Murano
NH Collection Venezia Murano Spa Room
unique hotels in Murano Venice
Murano Suites Unique apartment with views directly of the canal

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.

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Murano island venice boat on the canal
Murano Island Venice brown wooden boat

Day 2: Burano & Venice

How to Get from Murano to Burano

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. 

Burano Itinerary from Murano Venice
Burano Island
Burano Itinerary from Murano Venice colourful rainbow houses
Burano's Colourful Houses

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.

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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.

How to Get from Burano to Venice

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 eat in Burano fish and seafood in Burano

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. 

budget hotels in Venice that are by the canal
Hotel Antico Doge
where to stay in Venice on a budget by the canal
Budget Friendly Hotel Antico Doge

How to Spend the 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.

Venice with Kids, exploring Venice by train, a 7 night itinerary
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Day 3: 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.

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Day 4 – Venice to Lake Garda (Sirmione)

How to get from Venice to Desenzano Del 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 or the Trainline 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.

Train at Venice train station travelling to Verona

How to get from Desenzano Del Garda to Sirmione

Outside Desenzano Del Garda train station you may find taxis waiting. If there's none there, 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. 

Hotel Alevic rooftop pool in Sirmione lake Garda
Hotel Alevic's Roof Top Pool
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Day 5: 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.

Scaligero Castle in Sirmione on Lake Garda
ariel view of jamaica beach in sirmione lake garda
Jamaica Beach Sirmione
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Caruso restaurant by Lake Garda in Sirmione

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

Day 6: Verona

How to get from Sirmione to Verona

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. 

Hotel Milano & Spa Hotel in Verona with rooftop views of the arena

Leave 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.

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Day 7: 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.

Juliet’s Balcony in Verona historic centre padlocks
Juliet’s Balcony in Verona historic centre
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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.

Verona aerobus from train station to the airport
Verona Airport from Verona bus ticket showing cost of travel

We loved how well this route flowed, with each destination feeling different while still being easy to reach by train or ferry. Starting in Venice and ending in Verona meant less backtracking and more time enjoying each place, especially around Lake Garda where slowing down really paid off.

If you’re looking for a stress-free way to see Northern Italy using public transport, this itinerary strikes a great balance between sightseeing and downtime.

This itinerary offers a stress-free way to explore Northern Italy by train and ferry. Perfect for first-timers, couples, or families, it balances sightseeing, relaxation, and local experiences.

 

Other Blogs & Guides You May be Interested In

16 Days Around in Italy with Kids

Lake Garda with kids

12 Best Italian City Combinations by Train

4 Days in Sicily: Ferry, Trains & Costs from Mainland Italy

Our Bernina Express Route: Switzerland to Italy

Best Eurocamps in Italy

Calabria - a Budget Solo Itinerary

How to Travel to Tuscany with Kids

How to Travel to Rome with Kids 

4 days in scilla trops and reggio calabria
7 day Northern Italy itinerary Venice Lake Garda Verona

12 Best Italian City Combinations by Train (Easy Routes for 2026)

Planning an Italy trip and wondering which cities are best to combine by train?

Italy has one of Europe’s fastest and easiest rail networks, making it perfect for multi-city trips without hiring a car.

From cities to lakes, coastlines, and food capitals, many of Italy’s best destinations are less than an hour apart.

In this guide, I’ll show you the best Italian city combinations by train, including:


• Journey times
• Typical ticket prices
• Why each pairing works
• Who it’s best for (families, couples, first-timers)

 

Who This Italy Train Guide Is Best For

First-time visitors to Italy

Travellers planning a multi-city trip without hiring a car

Families, couples, and solo travellers

Budget-conscious travellers using trains instead of flights

A Year of Budget Travel: 8 Low Cost Trips Taken in 2024

Sarah

Build a Break

Helping you plan DIY trips with smart routes, easy itineraries, and money-saving travel tips.

See More Italy Blogs & Guides See Our Latest Price Finds Join Our Travel Club (Coming Soon)
City CombinationJourney TimeBest ForRegion
Florence + Pisa59 minsFirst-time visitorsTuscany
Milan + Lake Como1 hrRelaxed luxuryLombardy
Rome + Naples1 hr 16 minsHistory & foodLazio / Campania
Naples + Sorrento1 hrCoastal viewsCampania
Bari + Polignano30 minsBeach & culturePuglia
Palermo + Cefalù50 minsCulture & beachSicily
easy train itineraries in Italy for 2026

Just a quick note before we begin- some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting my work and happy planning!

1. Florence + Pisa by Train – Perfect for First-Time Visitors

Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, and Pisa, famous for its iconic Leaning Tower, are just under an hour apart by train. 

Start your day in Florence, exploring the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio. Then, hop on a regional train to Pisa, where you can snap photos at the Leaning Tower, explore Piazza dei Miracoli, and stroll along the River Arno.

How to get from Florence to Pisa:

Route: Florence (Firenze Santa Maria Novella) to Pisa (Pisa Centrale)

Journey Time: 59 minutes

Cost: £8.13 (€9.41 / $10.31)

Best for: First-time visitors, short trips, families

Ideal trip length: 3-4 days

Why it works: Short train ride, compact sights, no car needed

See how we spent 16 days travelling round Italy by train

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Florence from Hu Norcenni Girasole
Florence from Hu Norcenni Girasole

2. Milan + Lake Como by Train – City Style Meets Lakeside Relaxation

Milan’s fashion and architecture combines beautifully with Lake Como’s tranquil charm.

Start your morning exploring Milan’s famous Duomo, designer shops, and art galleries. Then, board a train to Varenna, one of Lake Como’s most picturesque towns. 

Spend the afternoon strolling along the lake, visiting charming villas, or taking a ferry to Bellagio for stunning views.

How to get from Milan to Lake Como:

Route: Milan (Milano Centrale) to Varenna-Esino (Lake Como)

Journey Time: 1 hour 4 minutes

Cost: £6.47 (€7.49 / $8.21)

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Visit Lake Como from Milan

Best for: Couples, relaxed luxury, scenic escapes


Ideal trip length: 3–4 days

Why it works: A quick train ride takes you from a major city to peaceful lakeside towns with minimal travel time.

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3. Florence + Bologna by Train – Art, Culture & Incredible Food

Combine Florence’s art with Bologna’s culinary delights in just over half an hour.

Florence and Bologna are an unbeatable duo for your next Italian adventure.

In Florence, soak in the Renaissance masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery and marvel at the Duomo. Then, take a short train ride to Bologna, the culinary capital of Italy. 

Indulge in authentic pasta dishes like tagliatelle al ragù and explore the historic streets and iconic Two Towers.

How to get from Florence to Bologna

Route: Florence (Firenze Santa Maria Novella) to Bologna (Bologna Centrale)

Journey Time: 38 minutes

Cost: £28.83 (€33.36 / $36.63)

Best for: Food lovers, culture seekers, weekend trips

how to get from Bologna to Florence


Ideal trip length: 4-5 days

Why it works: High-speed trains connect two walkable cities known for art, history, and incredible cuisine.

 

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4. Pisa + Cinque Terre by Train – Culture and Coastal Views

Combining Pisa and Cinque Terre offers the perfect mix of culture and coastal beauty. 

Start your holiday in Pisa, marvelling at the iconic Leaning Tower and exploring the historic Piazza dei Miracoli. 

Then, take a short train ride to Monterosso, the largest of Cinque Terre’s picturesque villages. 

Spend your days hiking the coastal trails, relaxing on the beaches, and soaking in the charm of the colourful cliffside towns. This duo provides a delightful blend of Italian heritage and seaside relaxation.

How to get from Pisa to Cinque Terre

Route: Pisa (Pisa Centrale) to Monterosso (Cinque Terre)

Journey Time: 1 hour 11 minutes

Cost: £10.92 (€12.63 / $13.87)

Best for: Coastal lovers, active travellers, photographers

Ideal trip length: 3–4 days

Why it works: Direct rail links make it easy to combine iconic landmarks with colourful seaside villages.

Pisa with kids
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5. Naples + Sorrento by Train – History with Amalfi Coast Scenery

Naples and Sorrento offer an ideal mix of bustling city life and coastal tranquillity.

Start your holiday in Naples, exploring its historic streets, ancient ruins, and world-famous pizza. Then, take a scenic train ride to Sorrento, where you can relax by the sea, visit charming piazzas, and enjoy breath-taking views of the Amalfi Coast.

Perfect for history buffs and beach lovers alike, this pairing offers the best of both worlds in Southern Italy.

How to get from Naples to Sorrento:

Route: Naples (Napoli Centrale) to Sorrento

Journey Time: 1 hour 9 minutes

Cost: £13.11 (€15.17 / $16.65)

Best for: Beach lovers, history fans, scenic trips

Ideal trip length: 3–5 days

Why it works: One scenic train line connects Naples with coastal views and easy access to the Amalfi Coast.

Italy Train Travel: Best City Break Combos for 2026
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6. Rome + Naples by Train – Ancient Ruins and Italy’s Best Food

Rome’s ancient ruins complement Naples’ vibrant energy and pizza culture.

Rome and Naples create an unforgettable holiday combination, blending ancient wonders with vibrant energy. 

Start in Rome, exploring iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and Trevi Fountain. Then, take a high-speed train to Naples, Italy’s culinary capital and gateway to Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius.

Perfect for history and food enthusiasts, this route showcases Italy's rich diversity.

How to get from Rome to Naples

Route: Rome (Roma Termini) to Naples (Napoli Centrale)

Journey Time: 1 hour 16 minutes

Cost: £39.23 (€45.39 / $49.84)

Best for: First-time Italy trips, history and food lovers


Ideal trip length: 4–6 days


Why it works: High-speed trains link two major cities packed with iconic sights and regional cuisine.

Rome and Naples in one trip
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7. Venice + Verona by Train – Romance, History & Easy Travel

Pair Venice’s canals with Verona’s Shakespearean romance.

Venice and Verona are the perfect combo for a romantic and cultural holiday. 

Begin in Venice, wandering through its enchanting canals, iconic St. Mark’s Square, and Rialto Bridge. Then, take a short train ride to Verona, the city of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Explore Juliet’s balcony, Verona’s ancient Roman Arena, and picturesque piazzas.

This combination is ideal for those seeking history, beauty, and timeless romance in two of Italy’s most captivating cities.

How to get from Venice to Verona

Route: Venice (Venezia Santa Lucia) to Verona (Verona Porta Nuova)

Journey Time: 1 hour 12 minutes

Cost: £25.34 (€29.33 / $32.20)

Best for: Romantic trips, culture lovers, short breaks


Ideal trip length: 3–4 days


Why it works: Frequent trains connect two compact cities rich in history, art, and architecture.

Venice with Kids, exploring Venice by train, a 7 night itinerary

See our 7 day itinerary for Venice, Verona & Lake Garda

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8. Milan + Lake Garda by Train – Urban Energy and Natural Beauty

Combine Milan’s style with Lake Garda’s stunning lakeside views.

Milan and Lake Garda make a fantastic pairing for a holiday that combines urban sophistication with natural beauty.

Start your trip in Milan, Italy’s fashion and design capital, exploring the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and world-class museums.

Then, take a quick train to Lake Garda’s Peschiera del Garda, where you can unwind by the water, enjoy lakeside dining, and visit charming towns like Sirmione.

It’s the perfect blend of city chic and lakeside relaxation.

How to get from Milan to Lake Garda

Route: Milan (Milano Centrale) to Peschiera del Garda (Lake Garda)

Journey Time: 57 minutes

Cost: £23.59 (€27.33 / $30.02)

Best for: Nature lovers, families, relaxed itineraries

Ideal trip length: 4–5 days

Why it works: A short train journey delivers a smooth transition from city sightseeing to lakeside relaxation.

Milan to Lake Garda
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9. Lake Garda + Verona by Train – Short, Scenic & Stress-Free

A short ride connects the serene Lake Garda to Verona’s historic charm.

Begin at Lake Garda, enjoying its serene waters, scenic walks, and charming lakeside villages. Then, take a quick train ride to Verona, where you can immerse yourself in Roman history at the Arena and visit Juliet’s famous balcony. 

This easy combination is ideal for travellers seeking a peaceful retreat paired with cultural exploration.

How to get from Lake Garda to Verona 

Route: Peschiera del Garda to Verona (Verona Porta Nuova)

Journey Time: 19 minutes

Cost: £3.41 (€3.95 / $4.33)

Best for: Easy add-ons, slow travel, short stays

Ideal trip length: 2–3 days

Why it works: One of Italy’s shortest train routes connects lakeside scenery with a historic city centre.

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Verona with kids

10. Bari + Polignano a Mare by Train – Puglia’s Coast Made Easy

Start in Bari, exploring the historic old town of Bari Vecchia, the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, and the lively waterfront. Then, hop on a short regional train to Polignano a Mare, famous for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters.

Spend your time swimming at Lama Monachile, walking the coastal paths, and enjoying fresh seafood overlooking the Adriatic.

How to get from Bari to Polignano a Mare

Route: Bari Centrale to Polignano a Mare

Journey Time: 30 minutes

Cost: approx £3–£5 (€3.50–€5.50 / $4–$6)

Best for: Coastal lovers, relaxed travel, short breaks

Ideal trip length: 3–4 days

Why it works: Frequent regional trains connect city culture with one of southern Italy’s most beautiful beaches in under half an hour.

Bari + Polignano a Mare by Train – Puglia’s Coast Made Easy
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11. Palermo + Cefalù by Train – Culture and Beach in Sicily

Palermo and Cefalù offer a perfect balance of Sicilian culture and seaside relaxation.

Begin in Palermo, discovering its bustling markets, Norman architecture, and vibrant street food scene. Then, take a scenic coastal train to Cefalù, a charming seaside town known for its sandy beach and impressive cathedral.

This pairing is ideal if you want to experience Sicily’s energy without long travel days.

How to get from Palermo to Cefalù

Route: Palermo Centrale to Cefalù

Journey Time: 45–55 minutes
Cost: approx £6–£8 (€7–€9 / $8–$10)

Best for: First-time Sicily visitors, beach lovers, culture seekers

Ideal trip length: 3–4 days

Why it works: A straightforward coastal rail line links a major city with a relaxed beach town quickly and affordably.

Don't miss our guide on How to travel between Sicily and Italy

Things to do in Cefalù
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12. Catania + Taormina by Train – Etna Views and Sicilian Charm

Catania and Taormina are one of eastern Sicily’s most popular and practical train combinations.

Start in Catania, exploring its baroque architecture, lively piazzas, and Mount Etna excursions. Then, take a short train journey north to Taormina, famous for its Greek Theatre, stunning views, and nearby beaches like Isola Bella.

This route delivers iconic Sicily scenery with minimal effort.

How to get from Catania to Taormina

Route: Catania Centrale to Taormina-Giardini
Journey Time: 50–60 minutes


Cost: approx £6–£9 (€7–€10 / $8–$11)

Best for: Scenic trips, couples, classic Sicily itineraries

Ideal trip length: 3–5 days

Why it works: One easy rail connection combines urban life, coastal views, and Sicily’s most famous hill town.

See my itinerary 4 day Itinerary for Sicily 

Where to eat in Taormina
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FAQs About Travelling Italy by Train

What is the best way to travel between cities in Italy?

Trains are the fastest and most convenient option, with stations in city centres and frequent departures across Italy.

Is it easy to travel Italy by train without a car?

Yes, Italy’s rail network makes it easy to visit major cities, coastal towns, and lakes without driving.

How many cities should you combine in one Italy trip?

For a relaxed pace, 2–3 cities per week works best when travelling by train.

Are trains in Italy affordable?

 Regional trains are very affordable, while high-speed trains cost more but save significant time when booked early.

Tips for Italian City Breaks 2026

  • Plan Your Itinerary: Use an Italy map to visualise your route and avoid backtracking.
  • Book Italy Train Tickets Early: Save money by booking in advance, especially for high-speed trains.
  • Check Train Types: Regional trains are cheaper but slower, while high-speed trains are faster and more comfortable.
  • Consider Train Travel Costs: Calculate costs in euros or dollars to stay within budget.

Why Choose Train Travel in Italy?

Italy’s train system is one of the most efficient ways to explore multiple cities.

Trains are fast, frequent, and take you straight to city centres.

Whether you’re exploring the top 5 cities in Italy to visit or creating your own Italy train travel itinerary, the possibilities are endless.

Plan your Italian city break in 2026 with ease and experience the beauty of train travel in Italy!

Want more Italy?

Explore our complete Italy Travel Guide with multi-city train routes, family itineraries, budget trips and transport tips all in one place. 

👉 See all Italy guides here 

✈️ Want us to find trips like this for you? 

Our members-only Build a Break Travel Club receives hand-picked flight & hotel deals, Extreme Day Trips and multi-city Europe itineraries every week, all from UK and Ireland airports. 

👉 Join the Travel Club here 

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4 Days in Sicily: Ferry, Trains & Costs from Mainland Italy

Sicily often looks complicated to reach, especially if you don’t want to hire a car or spend hundreds on flights.

But it doesn’t have to be.

On this 4-day solo trip, I travelled from mainland Italy to Sicily using only public transport, crossing by ferry and exploring Messina, Taormina and Cefalù, all on a realistic budget.

This guide covers:

✈️ Flying into southern Italy for less than £60

⛴️ The €4 ferry crossing to Sicily

🚆 Cheap trains and coaches across the island

🏨 Where I stayed (and why I changed plans last-minute)

💰 Realistic costs for food, transport and accommodation

If you’re wondering “Is Sicily doable without a car?” - the answer is yes, and this trip proves it.

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💰 Sicily Budget Breakdown (4 Days)

✈️ Flights (UK → Reggio Calabria return): £52

🚌 Airport → Port (bus): €2

⛴️ Ferry to Sicily: €4

🚆 Messina → Taormina (coach): €6

🚆 Messina → Cefalù (train return): €22

🏨 3 nights accommodation (Messina): £167

🍝 Food & drink (average): €25–€40 per day

Total spend (excluding flights): around €250–€300 for 4 days

 

📍 Route at a glance

🗺️ Day 1: Reggio Calabria ➡️ Messina ⛴️🌆

Day 2: Taormina day trip 🚌

🏖️ Day 3: Cefalù day trip 🚆

✈️ Day 4: Messina ➡️ Reggio Calabria ⛴️ Fly home

👤 Who This Sicily Itinerary Is Perfect For

Solo travellers

Budget-conscious couples

Anyone avoiding car hire

Travellers crossing from mainland Italy

Shoulder-season travellers (spring & autumn)

Solo Trips to Italy

In May I took my first solo trip where I tried out a new flight route with Ryanair to Italy. 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.

Well I fell in love! As soon as I got home, I booked to return in October (again as a solo traveller), just before the season ended.

On that particular 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.  You can read about my Scilla & Tropea trip here

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. 

 Just a quick note before we begin- some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting our work and happy planning!

things to do in Scilla, Calabria

Flying to/from 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. 

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. 

Getting from Reggio Calabria Airport to Sicily

Bus from Reggio Calabria Airport to the Port

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.

Reggio Calabria to 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.

 

bus from Reggio Calabria airport to the port
Reggio Calabria to Messina ferry

You'll find Messina Marittima Train Station right next to Messina Ferry Port. Plus, 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 Centrale Station

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

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 been the same for a couple too, so very good value. 

Where to stay in Messina Sicily

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). 

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. 

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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.  

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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 Basilica 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 Basilica Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta.

Where to Eat in Messina?

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.

Coach from Messina to Taormina
Views from the coach

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!

What is Taormina like?

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

Taormina square

In terms of cost, I found Taormina more expensive for food and drink than 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. 

Where to eat in Taormina
20241007_165705 1 scaled

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 Siracusa, 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. 

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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

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.  

what is there to do in Cefalù
photograph of the lavatoio medievale Cefalù (historic laundry), which is free to explore

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. 

pizza in Cefalù in a restaurant facing the beach

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. 

Sicily on a Budget: A 4 Day Itinerary from Mainland Italy
Cefalu beach front, arch way in cefalu with blue and white parasols

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.

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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.

 

Inside of Messina to Reggio Calabria Ferry
Messina to Reggio Calabria Ferry

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.

Sicily on a Budget: Is it Possible?

Absolutely, even as a solo traveller. 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. 

Want more Italy?

Explore our complete Italy Travel Guide with multi-city train routes, family itineraries, budget trips and transport tips all in one place. 

👉 See all Italy guides here 

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How to spend 4 days in Calabria
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Where to Stay in Italy: 10 Affordable Hotels With Iconic Views 

Dreaming of affordable hotels in Italy with views of Italy’s most iconic landmarks?

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!

Where to Stay in Italy for Affordable Hotels With Incredible 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.

 

Affordable hotel in Rome with Trevi Fountain view

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. 

 

Price: From around £107 / €125 / $135 USD per night for a double room (based on travel dates from 6th–14th 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.

See The Hotel

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.

Affordable hotel in Florence with Duomo view – Hotel Duomo Firenze

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.

See The Hotel

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.

budget friendly lake como hotel with lake views

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.

See the Hotel

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 15th 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.

Affordable Rome hotel Italy with view of the pantheon

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.

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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.

 

Amalfi Coat Hotel with view of Amalfi Cathedral

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.

See The Hotel

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.

affordable lake garda hotel with lake views italy

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.

See the Hotel

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.

Cinque Terre beach front hotel riomaggiore italy affordable

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.

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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.

affordable Venice hotels with a canal view

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.

See The Hotel

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.

Hotel Milano & Spa Hotel in Verona with rooftop views of the arena

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.

See The Hotel

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.

Rome hotels with views of the colosseum

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.

See The Hotel

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.

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!

Want more Italy?

Explore our complete Italy Travel Guide with multi-city train routes, family itineraries, budget trips and transport tips all in one place. 

👉 See all Italy guides here 

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Our members-only Build a Break Travel Club receives hand-picked flight & hotel deals, Extreme Day Trips and multi-city Europe itineraries every week, all from UK and Ireland airports. 

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How to Travel Between Sicily and Italy: Easy Guide 2026

When I planned my own trip to Sicily, I found it surprisingly hard to get a simple explanation of how to travel between mainland Italy and Sicily.

Most sites gave bits of information, but nothing clear in one place. So I’ve put everything together here - short, simple, and easy to follow. 

Travelling from Italy to Sicily is actually very easy. Whether you’re going by ferry, by car, or on the famous Intercity train that drives onto the ferry, this guide explains exactly how each route works. 

How to get from Sicily to Italy

If you’re wondering things like: 

Is there a bridge between Sicily and Italy? 

Can you drive from Italy to Sicily? 

How far is Sicily from mainland Italy? 

What’s the quickest ferry from Italy to Sicily? 

…this guide covers every option. 

 

This post may includes affiliate links which we earn a small commission on purchases at no extra cost to you. This helps to support the maintenance of the site, and enables us to keep bringing you helpful guides, and great price finds. 

Watch the Video

Frequently Asked Questions About Travelling Between Italy and Sicily

How do you get to Sicily from mainland Italy?

Foot ferry 

Car ferry 

Intercity trains that board the ferry 

Longer overnight ferries from central Italy 

Is there a bridge between Sicily and Italy?

No. There is no bridge between Sicily and the Italian mainland. There are ongoing discussions about building the Sicily bridge project, but nothing is built yet. Right now, the only way to cross is by ferry - on foot, by car, or by train. 

Can you drive from Sicily to Italy (and vice versa)?

Yes - but not via a road bridge. You drive your car onto the ferry at Villa San Giovanni and cross the Strait of Messina to Messina in Sicily. Crossing for cars starts at around €52. 

Do you need to go through passport control when travelling from Italy to Sicily?

No, there is no passport control between the two, as they are both part of Italy.

Is Sicily part of Italy?

Yes, Sicily is a region of Italy, so you do not go through passport control. 

How far is Sicily from mainland Italy?

Sicily is just 3.2 km from the mainland at the closest point. This is why the ferry from Villa San Giovanni to Messina only takes around 20 minutes. 

How long is the ferry from Italy to Sicily?

It depends on your departure port. The quickest crossing is from Villa San Giovanni to Messina (20 minutes). Longer routes from Salerno, Naples, and Civitavecchia take between 9–14 hours.

Where in Italy can you cross from to get to Sicily?

Reggio Calabria, Villa San Giovanni, Salerno, Civitavecchia along with the intercity trains from Rome and Naples. We will cover every option below. 

How much does it cost to get from Italy to Sicily?

Foot passenger fares from Italy to Sicily start at just €2.50

Villa San Giovanni to Sicily (Messina)

This is the shortest distance between Sicily and Italy and the most popular crossing. This ferry travels 8.6km, taking just 20 minutes. 

Why Villa San Giovanni is the best option 

  • Fastest ferry (20 minutes) 
  • 50+ sailings per day 
  • Runs 24 hours 
  • Cheapest crossing (from €2.50 on foot 
  • Easy train connections 
  • Ideal if you’re driving to Sicily 
  • Crossing can be made on foot, car or train via this route

The ferry operator for Villa San Giovanni to Messina is Caronte & Tourist   

So let's explore the various options from Villa San Giovanni

Villa San Giovanni to Sicily by Train

Located just up the coast from Reggio Calabria on Italy's mainland, you can travel to Villa S. Giovanni station by train, from other towns and cities in Italy.

This is where many people get confused - so here’s the clear version. 

You can book your train as normal on Trenitalia by selecting any mainland Italian station and then choosing a Sicilian station (Palermo, Catania, Taormina, etc.). 

Regional Train: You get off the train at Villa San Giovanni station. Walk to the ferry port (right next to the station). Buy a ferry ticket (€2.50). Cross to Messina. Continue your journey from Messina Marittima station (next to the Port) or Messina Centrale station (4 min walk from Messina Port). 

Intercity Train (The Famous One): This is the only one in Europe where the train is shunted onto the ferry. Stay on the train or walk around the ferry during the crossing. The ferry crossing is included in your train ticket. Once in Messina, the train splits into two sections: One part goes west (towards Palermo). One part goes east (towards Catania) 

If you want the easiest option and don’t want to change trains - choose an Intercity. 

To search trains click here 

For Ferry Tickets click here

Italy to Sicily train ferry

Villa San Giovanni to Sicily on Foot

Cross the Messina Strait from Villa San Giovanni to Messina as a foot passenger:

  • From €2.50 
  • Ferries every ~20 minutes 
  • 20-minute crossing 
  • Runs all day and night 
  • This is the cheapest and fastest way to get from Italy to Sicily. 

 

To book click here 

Villa San Giovanni to Sicily by Car

  • From €52.40 (smallest car category) 
  • Same fast crossing 
  • Ferries every 20 minutes 
  • Drive straight off the ferry into Messina 
  • If you’re doing a Sicily road trip, this is the most straightforward option. 

To book click here 

Reggio Calabria to Messina

From Reggio Calabria port you can take the foot ferry over to Messina, Sicily.

Another good choice for foot passengers. 

  • Cost: €4 
  • Crossing time: 35 minutes 
  • About 14 ferries per day 
  • Operator: Liberty Lines 

There are 14 ferries per day- roughly 1 per hour between the hours of 6:30am and 11:30pm. 

Tickets are available online or at the port via Liberty Ferries 

Liberty Ferries also offer sailings from Reggio Calabria to Rinella and Santa Marina Salina (Aeolian Islands), though these are less frequent. 

To book click here 

Reggio Calabria to Messina ferry
Reggio Calabria to Messina ferry
Ferries from Sicily to Italy

Salerno to Sicily

Salerno to Palermo by Ferry

From Salerno, you can sail to Palermo in Sicily with Grimaldi Ferries.

 

  • Crossing time: 10 hours 15 minutes 
  • Operator: Grimaldi Lines 
  • Sailings: 2 per week 
  • Foot passenger from €50.50 
  • Cars, motorbikes, and campervans allowed 
  • These ferries are large and better suited for overnight travel. 

 

They offer: 

  • Cabins 
  • Restaurants 
  • Shops 
  • Pool (in summer) 
  • Lounge seating 
  • Wi-Fi packages 

Ideal if you prefer a night crossing rather than long-distance driving. 

To book click here 

Salerno to Sicila
On Board the Ferry from Salerno to Palermo

Salerno to Sicily by Train

There is a direct Intercity train from Salerno to Sicily. 

This train: 

  • Boards the ferry at Villa San Giovanni 
  • No need to get off 
  • Splits after arrival in Messina 
  • Continues to Palermo or Catania 

 

Journey times: 

  • Salerno → Palermo: 9 hr 35 min 
  • Salerno → Catania: 7 hr 40 min 

 

Click here to search trains

Where to stay in Taormina

Naples to Sicily

Naples to Palermo by Ferry

From Naples, you can sail to Palermo in Sicily with Grimaldi Ferries.

  • Crossing: 9 hrs 30 min 
  • Operator: Grimaldi Lines 
  • 4 sailings per week 
  • Foot passenger from €48 
  • Cars, bikes, campers allowed 
  • Facilities similar to the Salerno service. 

To book click here 

Naples to Sicily ferry

Naples to Sicily by Train

 Another direct Intercity route: 

 

  • Train boards the ferry 
  • No changes needed 
  • Includes ferry cost 
  • Splits in Messina for Palermo/Catania 

 

Journey times: 

  • Naples → Palermo: 10 hrs 18 mins 
  • Naples → Catania: 8 hrs 34 mins 

 

There are two daytime trains and one night train (with couchettes). 

There is typically two direct trains in the day with normal train seating, then there is a night train, departing late evening. 

The night train includes compartment couchettes with space to sleep and includes breakfast.  

To search trains click here 

Find hotels in Cefalù

Rome to Sicily

You can travel from Rome Tiburtina with just one change - usually in Salerno or Naples. 

The journey from Rome to Sicily takes between 10-14 hours depending on the service. 

  • Entire route is Intercity 
  • The train boards the ferry (no need to get off the train)
  • No passport control 
  • Journey time: 10–14 hours 

This is a long journey, but the most budget-friendly way to reach Sicily from central Italy. 

To search trains click here 

Civitavecchia, Rome to Sicily

You can travel from Civitavecchia, a coastal town northwest of Rome, to Palermo via a ferry.

  • Crossing: 14 hrs 30 mins 
  • Usually operates Friday 
  • 1 Ferry per week 
  • Foot passengers around €50 
  • Cabins, suites, seats, and deck tickets available 

Good for travellers who want to combine Rome with Sicily without internal trains. 

To search this route and book click here 

Where to stay in Messina

Final Tips for Travelling From Italy to Sicily

The quickest crossing is from Villa San Giovanni to Messina 

 

The cheapest crossing is as a foot passenger for €2.50 

 

You can drive to Sicily using the car ferry 

 

Sicily is 3.2 km from mainland Italy at the closest point 

 

There is no bridge between Sicily and mainland Italy 

 

Intercity trains offer the easiest “door-to-door” option 

 

Overnight ferries from Naples, Salerno, or Civitavecchia are popular for long-distance travel 

 

You do not need your passport as Sicily is part of Italy 

Want more Italy?

Explore our complete Italy Travel Guide with multi-city train routes, family itineraries, budget trips and transport tips all in one place. 

👉 See all Italy guides here 

✈️ Want us to find trips like this for you? 

Our members-only Build a Break Travel Club receives hand-picked flight & hotel deals, Extreme Day Trips and multi-city Europe itineraries every week, all from UK and Ireland airports. 

👉 Join the Travel Club here 

Sicily and Calabria Travel Guide
cheapest place to visit in italy

9 Nights in Italy by Rail with Kids | 4 Cities | from Just £508pp

Italy by Rail Family Itinerary

how to travel round Italy by train with kids budget travel

If Italy’s been on your family travel wish list, this is a brilliant multi-stop route that’s both affordable and easy to do by train - with 9 nights in Italy for under £600pp in the August school holiday!

The price we've found includes return flights, 4 night stay in Rome and a 5 night stay in Florence plus trains between all cities.  This itinerary is perfect for kids, (and adults) as it allows time in the city, along with european camps with pools and woodland living.

This rail itinerary includes Rome, Naples, Florence and Pisa.

As usual, everything we share is for you to DIY your own trip. We hope you can take this information to build your own break and live out your travel dreams on a budget. We have personally travelled around Italy multiple times with our children, and it's so easy to do. You can read about our 16 night trip here.

All prices are based on 2 adults and 2 children sharing. If your family is bigger or smaller, you simply need to adjust your search via the links provided to fit your family size.

We recommend grabbing a pen and piece of paper so you can jot down prices as you go.

Build a Break is a travel platform sharing the best finds we come across. We are not a travel agent and cannot provide quotes, alternative dates, or personal travel advice. We share deals we find online to help you save money on travel. Prices were correct at the time of posting but are subject to change and availability. Always check luggage policies, transfers, and final total price before booking. Build a Break is not responsible for any errors, omissions or the fulfillment of any travel arrangements.

This post may contain affiliate links – we may earn a small commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you.

Flights from the UK

Flights depart to Rome from  various airports on the 19th August 2026. For this itinerary you will then fly home from Pisa airport on 28th August 2026. Flights are payable upfront in full on booking.

Prices range from £89pp to £131pp depending on your outbound airport choice.

Manchester £113pp return

Outbound Flight to Rome £73pp click here

Inbound Flight from Pisa £40pp click here

London Stansted £89pp

Outbound Flight to Rome £46pp click here

Inbound Flight from Pisa £43pp click here

London Luton £89pp

Outbound Flight to Rome £56pp click here

Inbound Flight from Pisa £33pp click here

Bristol £131pp

Outbound Flight to Rome £68pp click here

Inbound Flight from Pisa £63pp click here

Dublin £128pp

Outbound Flight to Rome £64pp click here

Inbound Flight from Pisa £64 click here

Accommodation for your Trip £340pp

For this trip we have chosen 2 bases, one in Rome and one in Florence.

You will spend 4 nights at Hu Roma Camping (Rome), followed by 5 nights at Hu Firenze Camping (Florence).

Both accommodation options are book now and pay later.

Hu Roma Camping £172pp

The site has a pool, restaurant, mini-market, and regular shuttle buses into central Rome, making sightseeing super simple. 

Think Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and pizza in Trastevere – all easy to reach without staying right in the city centre. 

💰 Cost: £686 total / £172pp (book now, pay later) 

Dates: 19th to 23rd August 2026 (Wednesday to Sunday)

Accommodation Type: Chalet

Click here to check availability

italy by train things to do

Hu Firenze Camping £168pp

Your next stop is Hu Firenze Camping in Town, a family-friendly resort-style site with pools, on-site dining, and easy access to Florence.

You can reach the centre in around 20 minutes by local bus or taxi. 

From Florence, wander across the Ponte Vecchio, climb the Duomo, and enjoy some of Italy’s best gelato. 

💰 Cost: £672 total / £168pp (book now, pay later) 

Dates: 23rd August - 28th August 2026 (Sunday - Friday)

Accommodation Type: Chalet

Click here to check availability

Trains in Italy £79pp

easy train itineraries in Italy for 2026

Rome to Naples: While in Rome, you're going to use one of your days to visit Naples. The direct high-speed train takes just 56 minutes and costs around £13pp each way (£104 total for a family of four).

Spend a day exploring the historic old town, grab a slice of authentic Neapolitan pizza, or take the funicular to Castel Sant’Elmo for views over Mount Vesuvius. For kids, there’s Underground Naples tours, Castel dell’Ovo by the sea, or a short hop to Pompeii if you’re feeling adventurous! 

Rome to Florence: On Sunday 23rd August, take another high-speed train (around £35pp / £140 per family) north to Florence, taking around 1hr 37 mins and check in to your next accommodation.

Florence to Pisa: On a day of your choosing during your stay in Florence, take a day trip to Pisa. The fastest train takes just 51 minutes and costs £9pp each way (£72 total for 4).

These are approximate prices based on train travel in the next month. We recommend booking train tickets 3 months before travel. Quite often there are summer promotions, especially when travel with children, so you may be able to get train tickets for less than the prices above.

We recommend booking train tickets through Trenitalia or Trainline (we use both).

💡 Other Costs to Factor In

Luggage: You’ll each get a small backpack included in your flight fare. Order all your toiletries online with Boots, for pickup airside to save on liquids (it will not only save you lots of space but they’re cheaper to pre-order than buy on the day at the airport). You may want to add one checked suitcase (around £30-£40 each way), but pack light – you’ll thank yourself on the trains! 

Transfers:

Rome: Taxi or Uber to Hu Roma (~€60 for 4) 

Florence Hu Firenze → Pisa Airport: Easy by public transport 

Don't forgot to read our trip blog for lots of tips on taking a trip

To shop our European Camping essentials click here

This is a fantastic DIY trip that combines the highlights of Italy – from ancient Rome to Renaissance Florence – without breaking the bank. One you'll be talking about for years to come, and one you're children will never forget!