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.

Italy Train Travel with Kids: The Ultimate 16-Day Adventure

7-Day Venice, Lake Garda & Verona Itinerary by Train & Ferries

Turin to Verona by Train: Our 4-Day Budget Italy Itinerary

12 Best Italian City Combinations by Train (Easy Routes for 2026)

4 Days in Sicily: Ferry, Trains & Costs from Mainland Italy

Calabria & Sicily Multi-Stop Routes from Reggio Calabria

🌊 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.

Your Guide to Exploring Reggio Calabria & Surrounding Areas

Calabria, Italy: A Budget Solo Trip to Scilla & Tropea

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

👨‍👩‍👧 Italy for Families

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

Best Family Campsites in Lake Garda (South Guide)

Camping Butterfly Village Lake Garda: Our Honest Review

Hu Norcenni Girasole Village Tuscany Review – Ideal for Families

Camping Village Fabulous Rome Review – Ideal for Families

Italy Train Travel with Kids: Essential Planning Guide

How to Do Eurocamp Without a Car: The Ultimate Guide

Eurocamp Italy Guide: Best Sites, Reviews & Full Park List

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.

Italy on a Budget: Real Tips to Travel Italy Cheaply

10 Cheapest Places to Visit in Italy from the UK

Where to Stay in Italy: Affordable Hotels with Iconic Views

How to Choose the Right Italy Train Itinerary for Your Family

2 Days in Lake Como in Winter: Full Costs & Honest Review

Great for travellers looking to maximise value without sacrificing experience.

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

⚡ 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.

Is Naples Safe for Tourists? Where to Stay & Areas to Avoid

Naples has a bit of a reputation.

Before we went, I’d seen everything from “you’ll love it” to “be careful, it’s not safe”, so I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect.

Now we’ve been, I can honestly say this:

Naples is not unsafe, but it is different.

It’s busier, louder and more chaotic than a lot of other Italian cities, and that’s usually what people mistake for it being dangerous.

This is what we experienced travelling as a family of six, and what you actually need to know.

If you're wondering whether Naples is safe for tourists, where to stay and which areas to avoid, this guide covers everything based on our own experience.

First impressions of Naples

Naples hits you straight away. It’s busy. It’s loud. It feels a bit chaotic.

Compared to places like Lake Como or Venice, it can feel overwhelming at first. There’s more traffic, more noise and just more going on.

But after a few hours, you start to realise that it’s not unsafe, it’s just full of life.

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.

Did we feel safe?

Yes, we did. We stayed in Chiaia, explored the Spanish Quarter, used public transport and walked around the city during the day and evening.

At no point did we feel unsafe.

That said, it’s not somewhere you’d walk around completely unaware either. You do need to be a bit more switched on than in quieter destinations.

Areas to be more mindful of

One thing that’s worth mentioning, because it comes up a lot, is the area around Napoli Centrale (the main train station).

A lot of people choose to stay here because it’s cheaper and really convenient for transport. And on paper, it makes sense, especially if you’re planning trips to places like Pompeii or Sorrento.

But like most major cities, the main station area isn’t the nicest part of Naples. It’s busier, a bit rougher around the edges, and this is often where people end up feeling uncomfortable.

We didn’t stay in this area, but you can see the difference compared to places like Chiaia or Vomero, which feel much more relaxed and residential.

So when people say “Naples felt unsafe”, quite often it’s based on staying near the station.

That’s not to say you should avoid it completely, especially if you’re just passing through.

But if you want a better overall experience of the city, I’d personally look at areas like Chiaia, Vomero or parts of the historic centre instead.

Where we stayed (and why it worked so well)

We stayed in Chiaia, and for us this was the perfect base.

It felt safe, relaxed and well connected. Plus, it was close to shops, cafes and transport.

We were just a short walk from the funicular and train station, which made getting around really easy, but without the intensity of staying in the centre or near the station (less than a 2 minute walk from both).

If you’re travelling as a family, I’d really recommend looking at this area. We’ll link the exact accommodation (Amedeo Suite) we used here, as it worked really well for space, location and overall feel.

Best areas to stay in Naples

Where you stay can completely change your experience of Naples.

Based on our trip, these are the areas I’d recommend:

Chiaia

Great for families, cleaner, more relaxed, good transport links

Vomero

More residential, quieter, amazing views, easy access via funicular

Historic Centre (Centro Storico di Napoli)

Busy, lively, great for sightseeing, but expect noise and crowds

Napoli Centrale Area

Areas around the main station are convenient, but I’d only really recommend them for short stays or if you’re prioritising transport over experience.

Like most big cities, the biggest risk is petty theft, not serious crime.

Think:

Pickpocketing

Bag snatching (rare, but possible)

Phones being taken if left out on tables

We didn’t experience any issues ourselves, but you can see how busy it gets, especially around transport hubs and tourist areas.

Simple things we did

Nothing over the top, just common sense:

Kept phones and valuables secure

Used crossbody bags

Stayed aware in crowded places

Didn’t leave anything on tables

That’s it.

Public transport safety

We used trains, the metro and the Circumvesuviana.

No issues at all. The only thing to be aware of is that it can feel busy, chaotic and a bit overwhelming at times

But safety-wise, it was absolutely fine. Just keep your belongings close, especially when it’s crowded.

Naples at night

We were out in the evenings for food and exploring and it felt fine.

It’s lively rather than quiet, with lots of people out, especially around restaurants and main streets.

As with any city, stick to well-lit areas and avoid empty back streets late at night.

Naples with kids

Naples worked really well for us. The biggest challenge wasn’t safety, it was:

The crowds, not getting a seat on trains and the pace of the city

So it’s more about managing expectations than worrying about safety.

Is Naples safe for solo travellers?

I didn’t visit Naples solo on this trip, but I have travelled alone to other parts of Southern Italy and Sicily over the last couple of years and never felt unsafe. Based on my experience there, and what we saw in Naples, I would happily visit Naples on my own.

Like anywhere, it’s about being aware of your surroundings and making sensible choices, but it’s not somewhere I’d avoid as a solo traveller.

So, is Naples safe?

Yes. Naples is safe to visit, including with children.

But it’s not polished. It’s not calm. And it’s definitely not like Northern Italy. It’s chaotic, energetic and a bit rough around the edges. And honestly, that’s exactly what makes it so good.

Most of the "Naples isn't safe" comments come down to where people stay, not the city itself.

Would we go back? Yes, without hesitation.

It completely surprised us, and once you get used to the pace of it, it’s an incredible city to explore.

Watch Our Itinerary Video

Planning your trip

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

If you’re planning your Naples trip, these guides will also help:

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

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

👉 Pompeii from Naples: Exactly How to Do It

👉 Naples to Sorrento: Train vs Ferry

Or browse all of our Italy guides here:

👉 See all our Italy blogs

And if you want trips like this sent to you each week, including Naples routes and last minute deals, you can join here:

👉 Join the Travel Club

Naples to Sorrento: Train vs Ferry Guide

If you’re staying in Naples, a trip to Sorrento is one of the easiest and most popular day trips you can do.

But one of the biggest questions is how to actually get there.

Do you take the train, or is the ferry worth it?

We did this ourselves as a family of six and ended up choosing the train, but there are pros and cons to both options depending on your budget, time and how relaxed you want the journey to be.

This guide breaks down both options so you can decide what works best for you.

If you’re planning your full trip, you can also read:
👉 3 Days in Naples: Our Itinerary (with Pompeii and Sorrento + Real Costs)

Or for a full breakdown of transport in Naples:👉 How to get around Naples (metro, trains, funicular and buses)

Watch Our 3 Day Itinerary

Option 1: Getting to Sorrento by Train (what we did)

The train from Naples to Sorrento is the cheapest and most flexible option.

This runs on the Circumvesuviana line, the same train used for Pompeii.

How it works

Depart from: Napoli Garibaldi (lower level - underneath Napoli Centrale train station)
Direction: Sorrento
Get off at: Sorrento (last stop)
Follow the signs for the Circumvesuviana Linee Vesuviane / EAV

Journey details

Time: around 1 hour 10 minutes
Cost: around €4.40 per person each way
Frequency: every 20–30 minutes

We paid around €46 total for five of us (one of our teens stayed back), so roughly £40 return (£8pp) which I thought was a fantastic price.

The train station is just a few minutes walk from the main shopping area of Sorrento.

What it’s actually like to ride the Circumvesuviana

I’ll be honest, this isn’t a “nice” train.

It’s:

Very busy
No seat reservations
Basic commuter style

We stood for a lot of the journey, especially on the way there, and it was even busier than when we went to Pompeii (likely because it was Good Friday).

That said, it’s:

Cheap
Frequent
No need to pre-book
Very easy to use

And by day 3, this suited us perfectly as we didn’t want to be tied to specific times.

Option 2: Getting to Sorrento by Ferry

The ferry is the more scenic and comfortable option, but it comes at a higher price.

How it works

Depart from: Molo Beverello (Naples port)
Arrive at: Sorrento Marina Piccola

Journey Details

Time: 40 to 60 minutes
Cost: typically €25–€40 per person return
Frequency: limited compared to trains

What it’s like

This is a completely different experience to the train.

You get:

Views of Mount Vesuvius
The coastline as you approach Sorrento
A much more relaxed journey

It’s also far less crowded than the train.

Things to consider

You’ll need to get to the port (bus, metro or taxi)
Sailings are weather dependent
Less flexibility with times
Much more expensive for families (this option would have cost us up to €200 vs the train at €46).

To check ferry times, prices and sailings we use Ferryhopper.

Train vs ferry: which is better?

Train is better if you want:

The cheapest option

Flexibility (turn up on the day and leave when you want)

No need to pre-book

Easy, simple travel

Ferry is better if you want:

A more scenic experience

A quieter, more comfortable journey

To avoid crowded trains

Why we chose the train

Originally, we had planned to do the Amalfi Coast, but the weather wasn’t great and the sea looked quite choppy.

We didn’t want to risk an expensive ferry only for it to be rough, so we switched plans and went to Sorrento instead.

By that point in the trip, we were also quite tired and didn’t want to be tied to specific departure times.

The train meant we could just turn up, get on, and head back whenever we were ready.

It wasn’t the most comfortable journey, but it worked perfectly for what we needed.

Another deciding factor, was that we could literally step outside our apartment and be on the local train to Napoli Garibaldi in minutes. If we'd have chosen the ferry we would have needed multiple changes on public transport, a taxi, or had to walk to the port (37 mins away).

If you’re travelling with children, fares can vary slightly. On the Circumvesuviana train, younger children may travel free or at a reduced rate depending on age, but in our experience we paid the same fare for everyone to keep things simple.

Ferry operators usually offer child fares, but these vary by company and route, so it’s worth checking when booking.

Getting from Sorrento station into town

One of the best things about Sorrento is how easy it is to explore once you arrive.

Sorrento train station is right in the centre
5–10 minute walk to Piazza Tasso
Easy walk to shops, cafes and viewpoints

To get down to Marina Grande:

Walk (around 15–20 minutes downhill from the station)
Taxi (we paid €25 back up the hill)
Bus - you can get a bus from the station and back up again. Roughly every 30 mins.

To reach Marina Grande, you’ll need to walk down from the town centre, take a bus or a taxi.

We spent most of our time around Marina Grande, which was easily the highlight of the day.

If you don’t fancy the walk down to Marina Grande, an easier alternative is Marina Piccola. This is the main port area in Sorrento where the ferries arrive, and it’s much more accessible from the town centre.

You can take the public lift down from Villa Comunale (just off Piazza Tasso), which only takes a couple of minutes and costs a small fee. It’s not as traditional or picturesque as Marina Grande, but it’s a good option if you want sea views without the steep walk, and there are still plenty of places to sit, eat and relax by the water.

Our total cost (real example)

For our Sorrento day trip:

Train: £40 total (for 5 people)
Food: £130 (our most expensive meal of the trip but we ate and drank lots)
Taxi: £20 - again not needed.
Huge lemon sorbet ice creams x 2 and 3 standard ice creams £20

Around £210 total for the day

This could have been much cheaper if we hadn’t gone big on the meal but it was our last day and we wanted a treat.

What we’d do next time

We’d 100 percent do Sorrento again.

If the weather was better, we might consider the ferry one way for the views and the train back for flexibility.

But overall, the train is the easiest and best-value option, especially for families.

Sorrento is one of the easiest day trips from Naples and well worth doing.

The train is the most practical option, while the ferry is more about the experience.

Neither is wrong, it just depends on what kind of day you want.

If you’re planning your trip, you might also find these helpful:

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

👉 Pompeii from Naples: Exactly How to Do It

👉 How to get around Naples

👉 Where to Stay in Naples: The best areas for fist-timers, families and transport

And for more Italy routes and ideas:

👉 See all our Italy blogs

If you want trips like this sent straight to you each week:

👉 Join the Travel Club

How to get around Naples: Metro, Trains, Buses & Airport Transfers

If you’re planning a trip to Naples, one of the biggest questions is how easy it is to get around.

And I’ll be honest, it’s not as smooth as places like Switzerland or Northern Italy. Out of all the places we've visited in Italy, this was the most confusing at first, mainly as there's just so many options.

But once you understand how it works, it’s actually really simple and incredibly cheap.

This is exactly how we got around Naples as a family of six, including what worked, what didn’t, and what we’d do again.

If you’re still in the planning stage, I’d also recommend reading our full itinerary alongside this, as it shows exactly how all of this fits together in real life.

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

Watch Our Itinerary

Getting around Naples (the basics)

Naples has a mix of:

Metro lines

Local trains

Funiculars

Buses

Regional trains

The airport bus (Alibus)

Ferries

It sounds complicated, but most of the time you will only use a couple of these.

We stayed in Chiaia, and for us, everything centred around:

Local train to Napoli Garibaldi (M2)

Circumvesuviana trains

Metro Line 1

Funicular

Alibus (airport)

If you’re new to Naples, it’s also worth understanding what the city feels like day-to-day, including safety, areas to stay and what to expect. I’ve covered that here:

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

Naples Main Transport Hub

The easiest station to understand is Napoli Garibaldi / Centrale

This is the main transport hub in Naples and you’ll probably pass through it at some point.

It can feel confusing at first because it’s split across levels:

Napoli Centrale → main train station (street level). This has trains travelling all over Italy.

Napoli Garibaldi → lower level (metro line 1, Line 2 and Circumvesuviana). These are more local routes.

So, they're basically all located in the same building, but on different levels, and called different names.

You'll also find the Alibus outside Napoli Centrale.

Once you know this, it makes everything much easier.

Follow signs for:

Linee Vesuviane / EAV → Circumvesuviana trains

Metro Line 1 or M2

Trenitalia → regional trains

Local trains (what we used daily)

From where we stayed on Via del Parco Margherita, the closest station was:

Napoli Piazza Amedeo

This was a huge win for us because it was a 2 minute walk and went directly to Napoli Garibaldi in around 10-15 minutes. Plus, a single journey only cost €1.50 per person.

Tickets are easy to buy at machines and you must validate them before boarding.

Circumvesuviana (Pompeii and Sorrento)

This is the train you’ll use for:

Pompeii

Herculaneum

Sorrento

It runs from Napoli Garibaldi (lower level).

Cost: €3.30 one way to Pompeii

Around €4.40 to Sorrento

Time: Pompeii: around 35 minutes and Sorrento: around 1 hour 10 minutes.

Now, honest thoughts. It’s cheap, it’s frequent and it gets the job done. But, it's very busy, there's no seat reservations and it's not the most comfortable. It can feel chaotic, with people racing to get onboard. We visited in April, so not even the height of summer, yet it felt so cramped onboard and hot. We stood both ways to Pompeii and Sorrento.

Top tip: Buy your return ticket in advance. The queues on the way back were huge and machines were broken. The little shop in the station sells tickets but they would only accept cash.

If you’re planning a Pompeii day, I’ve broken that down step by step here:

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

If you’re heading to Sorrento, you can read our full guide comparing the train and ferry options here:
👉 Naples to Sorrento: Train vs Ferry (Costs, Times and Tips)

Metro Line 1 (the nicer option)

We used it to go from: Vomero → Toledo

Cost: €1.50 per journey

Stations are modern and much calmer than other parts of the network.

Toledo Station is worth visiting alone, it’s often called one of the most beautiful metro stations in Europe (see photo)

Funicular (one of the best things to do)

If you’re staying near Chiaia like we were, this is a must.

Parco Margherita Funicular was just a 1 minute walk from our apartment. The journey up to Cimarosa took just 5 mins.

Cost: €1.30

At the top:

Piazza Vanvitelli

Walk to Castel Sant’Elmo

Incredible views over Naples

You can walk back down (around 30 to 40 minutes) or just take it back down.

Alternatively, we took metro line 1 from Vomero to Toledo to explore the Spainish Quarter (€1.50) - this is located next to Cimarosa Funicular.

The map below shows the funicular line and connecting metro lines 1 & 2.

Buses (we didn’t really use them)

Naples does have buses, but honestly they’re slower, harder to navigate and traffic can be bad. We did have a bus stop directly outside our accommodation, but we had no call to use it.

For us, trains and metro were far easier.

Airport transfers (what we did)

We landed at 10:15pm and chose a private transfer.

Cost: £48 for 6 people

This was an easy decision because public transport would have been around €30 anyway. Plus extra to reach our apartment using the metro

It was late, we were tired and we had kids and navigating a new city in the dark isn't my idea of fun.

We booked via Holiday Extras where our readers get a discount on transfers, airport parking & airport lounges here (discount automatically applied)

Getting to the Airport using Alibus

Alibus from Napoli Centrale → Airport

Cost: €5 per person

We actually paid €20 total for 6 (driver only charged for 4)

Time: around 20 minutes

You don’t need to pre-book

You can pay onboard

Bus stop is right outside the station

Ferry options from Naples (easy day trips)

One of the best things about Naples is how many places you can reach by ferry, especially if you want to avoid busy trains or just see the coastline from the water.

The main departure ports are Molo Beverello (for fast ferries) and Calata Porta di Massa (for slower, cheaper ferries). Both are easy to reach from the city centre.

You can also reach Sorrento by ferry, although most people opt for the train as it’s cheaper and runs more frequently.

Here are some of the most popular options:

Capri

Capri is probably the most famous island you can visit from Naples. Expect dramatic cliffs, clear blue water and places like the Blue Grotto.

Fast ferries take around 45–60 minutes, but it’s one of the more expensive options.

Procida

Procida is smaller, quieter and often considered the most authentic of the three islands. It’s known for its colourful houses and laid-back atmosphere.

This was originally in our itinerary but we decided to save it for a future trip due to the weather.

Ferries take around 40–60 minutes.

Amalfi Coast (Amalfi & Positano)

You can also reach the Amalfi Coast directly by ferry from Naples, including Amalfi and Positano.

This is a great option if you want to avoid winding coastal roads, but services are more limited and more expensive than travelling via Salerno.

Journey time is usually around 1.5 to 2 hours.

Ischia

Ischia is larger and less touristy than Capri, known for its thermal spas, beaches and a more relaxed feel.

Journey time is around 60–90 minutes depending on the ferry.

Sorrento

Sorrento is another popular option from Naples and can be reached by both ferry and train.

Ferries take around 40–60 minutes and give you really nice views of the coastline as you arrive, which is a big part of the experience.

However, trains to Sorrento (via the Circumvesuviana) are usually much cheaper and run more frequently, which is why we chose that option instead.

If you prefer a more scenic and comfortable journey, the ferry is a great choice. If you’re travelling on a budget or want flexibility, the train is usually the better option.

Salerno (gateway to the Amalfi Coast)

Salerno is often overlooked, but it’s actually a really useful base for exploring the Amalfi Coast.

From here, ferries to Amalfi and Positano are more frequent and often cheaper than from Naples.

You can reach Salerno by train (around 40 minutes) or ferry (around 1 hour).

Travelling with children in Naples (what to know)

One thing we found a bit confusing in Naples was how child tickets work, as it isn’t consistent across all types of transport.

In general, the rough guide is:

Under 4s travel free on trains

Ages 4–11 may qualify for child fares on some regional trains

Age 12+ is usually classed as an adult

However, for city transport like the metro, buses and funiculars, it’s much simpler:

Under 6s travel free

Everyone else pays the same standard fare

Where it gets confusing is at ticket machines, especially for short local journeys. On one of our trips, selecting child tickets actually produced free tickets, which seems to be a quirk of the system rather than a clear rule.

Because of this, and to keep things simple, we found it easiest to just buy standard tickets for everyone on shorter journeys. It avoids confusion and means you don’t need to worry about whether you’ve selected the correct option.

If you’re travelling with older children or teens, it’s also worth having ID on you, especially for places like Pompeii where under 18s are free but proof of age may be required.

Is Naples easy to get around?

Naples transport isn’t polished.

It’s busy, a bit chaotic, and very different to other parts of Italy.

But it works. And once you get used to it, it’s actually really easy and very affordable.

And honestly, it all adds to the experience.

If you’re planning a wider Italy trip, you can browse all of our guides here:

👉 See all our Italy blogs

And if you want trips like this sent straight to you each week (including routes like Naples, last minute deals and Extreme Day Trips), you can join our members club here:

👉 Join the Travel Club

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.

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.

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.

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

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!

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.

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)

View availability and latest prices for Hotel Griso Collection

See the Hotel View

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.

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.

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!

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

👉 Join the Travel Club here

Join Our Mailing List

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

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.

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

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.

⭐ 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.

🎢 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.

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

👶 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.

🌅 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.

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

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

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.

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)

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.

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).

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)

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.

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!

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.

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!).

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

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.

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.

🗓️ 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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

👎 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.

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

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.

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

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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

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

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.

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)

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)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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)

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)

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)

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.

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.

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

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.

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

Watch The Video

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.

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.

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

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.

Watch The Video

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.

Things to Do in Burano

Snap photos of the rainbow-coloured houses.

Visit the Lace Museum or browse local boutiques.

Climb the leaning tower of San Martino Church.

Where to Eat in Burano

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

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

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

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

💰 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.

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.

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 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.

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.

Day 1: Messina

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

Some areas around the port appeared a bit run-down when I arrived and therefore I wasn't sure what to expect from Messina.

However, heading in to the city centre reminded me of Turin’s architecture which I love and the main areas were a lot cleaner and well maintained.

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

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

I must have spend a good 2-3 hours wandering around the city centre and visiting Messina's historic sites- the Astronomical Clock of the Cathedral of Messina, Tempio di Cristo and 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?

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2: Taormina

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

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

Getting to Taormina from Messina

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

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

Coach to Taormina

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

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

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

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

A day in Taormina

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

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

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

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

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

In terms of cost, I found Taormina more expensive for food and drink 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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

Day 4: Returning back to Mainland Italy

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

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

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

Additional Tips for Budget Travel in Sicily and Calabria

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

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

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

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

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

Tips for Solo Travellers in Sicily and Calabria

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

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

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

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

✈️ 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

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.

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

Location: Piazza di Trevi 96, 00187 Rome

Highlights:

Incredible fountain-facing rooms

Rooftop breakfast with panoramic views

Walking distance to Pantheon, Spanish Steps, and Piazza Venezia

Free Wi-Fi and continental breakfast included

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

📍 Location: Piazza del Duomo 1, 50122 Florence

Highlights:

Balcony and window views of the Florence Cathedral

Steps from Giotto’s Bell Tower, Uffizi Gallery & Ponte Vecchio

Elegant, soundproofed rooms with modern touches

Free Wi-Fi and daily breakfast included

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Highlights:

Panoramic lake-view rooms and suites

On-site rooftop restaurant and terrace bar

Free parking and breakfast included

Close to ferries for exploring Bellagio, Varenna & Como

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

4. Historic Affordable Rome Hotel With Pantheon Views

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

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

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

Location: Piazza della Rotonda 63, 00186 Rome

Highlights:

Uninterrupted views of the Pantheon

4-star luxury in a prime historic location

Stylish rooms with elegant Italian décor

Breakfast included, plus a chic on-site bar

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

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

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

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

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

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

Highlights:

Rooms with views of the Amalfi Cathedral and town square

Rooftop terrace with panoramic coastal and city views

Steps from restaurants, beach, and ferry connections

Great base for day trips to Positano, Ravello & Capri

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

6. Affordable Lake Garda Hotel With Lakeside Luxury

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

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

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

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

Highlights:

Parkland setting with direct lake access

Outdoor and indoor pools, spa, and wellness facilities

Walking distance to Riva’s old town and ferry terminal

Free bike hire, breakfast included, family-friendly

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

7. Cinque Terre Cliffside Hotel With Breathtaking Views in Riomaggiore

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

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

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

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

Highlights:

Balconies and terraces with full sea and village views

Contemporary rooms with luxurious finishes

Easy access to hiking trails and the Cinque Terre train line

Perfect for couples and photography lovers

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

8. Stylish Venice Hotel with Grand Canal Views

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

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

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

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

Highlights:

Unbeatable views of the Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge

Elegant rooms with soundproofing and luxe décor

Rooftop terrace bar with panoramic views

Central location, walkable to all major sights

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

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

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

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

Location: Vicolo Tre Marchetti 11, 37121 Verona

Highlights:

Rooftop bar and jacuzzi with Arena views

Contemporary rooms with sleek design

Steps from Piazza Bra, Juliet’s Balcony & Roman sites

On-site spa and wellness centre

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

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

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

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

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

Location: Piazza del Colosseo, 00184 Rome

Highlights:

Colosseum-view rooms with large windows or balconies

Walking distance to Roman Forum, Palatine Hill & Metro

Stylish, minimalist rooms with luxe details

Ideal for couples and city-break travellers

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

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

✈️ 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

Join Our Mailing List

Eurocamp Italy 2026: Best Campsites, Reviews & Full Park List

🇮🇹 Eurocamp Holidays in Italy: The Ultimate Guide for 2026

Campsite holidays in Italy are genuinely our favourite type of family holiday - and after six years of travelling with Eurocamp, including Venice, Rome, Lake Garda and Tuscany, it’s safe to say we’re obsessed.

With fantastic pools, great weather, and easy access to iconic cities, Eurocamp ticks every box for us (and that’s saying something when you’re trying to please four kids of different ages!).

Parks across Italy offer culture, sunshine, amazing food, and brilliant value. Plus, often cheaper than a UK holiday even when you add flights and transfers.

In this updated 2026 guide, you’ll find:

✔ What a Eurocamp holiday is really like

✔ How to choose the perfect Italian Eurocamp park

✔ Our reviews of the parks we’ve stayed at

✔ A full list of every single Eurocamp campsite in Italy

✔ A new section answering “Does Eurocamp operate in Sardinia?” (a common Google search!)

✔ Tips for airports, transport and planning

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!

What Is a Eurocamp Holiday?

Eurocamp holidays are self-catered stays in well-equipped European holiday parks.

Expect: Spacious mobile homes, safari tents, or lodges

Outdoor living: pools, nature, terraces, al fresco dining

Fun for all ages: playgrounds, splash parks, sports & activities

Freedom to explore local towns, beaches, and cities

Brilliant value, especially for families

For us, Eurocamp in Italy means:

✔ swimming in the pools

✔ exploring major cities like Rome and Venice

✔ eating al fresco on our deck

✔ making memories in the sunshine

How to Choose the Right Eurocamp in Italy

When choosing your perfect campsite, consider:

Beach vs Countryside

Beach lovers: Marina di Venezia, Pra’ delle Torri, Union Lido

Scenery & culture: Tuscany parks like Norcenni Girasole

Proximity to Major Cities

Rome: Camping Village Fabulous

Venice: Marina di Venezia, Union Lido

Verona & Milan: Butterfly Camping, Bella Italia

Walking Distance to Towns

Butterfly Camping (Peschiera del Garda)

Bella Italia

Public Transport

Italy’s trains make exploring super easy - perfect from Rome, Tuscany and Lake Garda. If you're planning on doing Eurocamp without a car, check the sites which have good transport links.

Campsite Size

Large sites: Marina di Venezia, Park Albatros, Norcenni Girasole, Union Lido

Medium sites: Portofelice, Pra’ delle Torri

Small sites: Butterfly Camping, Piantelle

🏕 Full List of Every Eurocamp Park in Italy 2026

Use this list to compare destinations quickly and see which region suits your trip.

We've added links to some of these, where we have managed to find them available to book elsewhere. This way, you can compare prices with staying direct with the sites.

Lake Garda & Northern Italy

Altomincio Family Park – Valeggio sul Mincio

Bella Italia – Peschiera del Garda

Cisano San Vito – Bardolino

Butterfly Camping Village – Peschiera del Garda

Campeggio del Garda – Peschiera

Weekend Glamping Resort – Lake Garda

Piantelle – Manerba del Garda

Del Garda Village and Camping - Peschiera, Lake Garda

Camping Village Eden

Venice Coast / Adriatic (Cavallino & Caorle)

Marina di Venezia – Punta Sabbioni (Venice)

Union Lido – Cavallino

Pra’ delle Torri – Caorle

Ca’ Pasquali Village – Cavallino

Sant’Angelo Village – Cavallino

Residence Village – Cavallino

Camping Village Cavallino – Cavallino

Camping Waikiki – Lido di Jesolo

Garden Paradiso – Cavallino

Laguna Village – Caorle

Ca' Savio - Cavallino-Treporti

Camping Village Serenella (Bardolino)

Villaggio San Francesco - Carole

Portofelice Camping Village - Eraclea Mare

Rosapineta

Malibu Beach, Jesolo

Tuscany & Central Italy

Hu Norcenni Girasole Village – Figline Valdarno

Park Albatros Village – San Vincenzo

Montescudaio Village – Montescudaio

Orbetello Camping Village – Orbetello

Le Capanne Camping Village – Bibbona

La Cecinella – Cecina Mare

Camping Orlando in Chianti

Rome / Lazio Region

Camping Village Fabulous – Rome

Hu Roma Camping in Town – Rome

I Pini Family Park – Near Rome

Village Roma Capital

Adriatic (Emilia-Romagna)

Tahiti Camping Village – Lido delle Nazioni

Pineta sul Mare Camping Village – Cesenatico

Camping Village Cesenatico – Cesenatico

Rimini Village - Viserba

Vigna sul Mar Family Camping Village – Lido di Pomposa

Spina Family Camping Village – Lido di Spina

Adriano - Punta Marina

Tenuta Primero, Grado

Other Italy Eurocamp Locations

Camping Village Punta Navaccia – Lake Trasimeno (Umbria)

Centro Vacanze San Marino – San Marino

Village Lago Maggiore - Dormelletto

Due Laghi Levico - Levico Terme, Trentino-South Tyrol

Caldonazzo, Trentino-South Tyrol

Camping Village Serenella - Puglia

La Scogliera - Puglia

Marina Julia Camping Village - Manfalcone, Trieste

Baia Domizia Camping Village - Campania

🇮🇹 Does Eurocamp Have Any Parks in Sardinia in 2026?

Yes, for 2026, Eurocamp has five sites in Sardinia.

Bella Sardinia (Oristano)

Laguna Blu (Alghero)

Baia Blu La Tortuga – Aglientu (Northern Sardinia)

4 Mori Family Village (Muravera)

Capo d’Orso (Le Saline)

Eurocamp Sites in Italy We’ve Stayed At

1. Eurocamp Italy Venice: Marina di Venezia

Location Highlights: Located near the iconic city of Venice, this park is perfect for families who want to combine beach relaxation with cultural exploration.

On-Site Features: A massive water park, multiple restaurants, and a stunning Adriatic coastline.

Size: One of the largest Eurocamp sites in Italy, bustling with activities and amenities.

Nearby Attractions: Spend a day exploring Venice’s canals, St. Mark’s Basilica, and Doge’s Palace.

Ideal For: Beach lovers and those seeking easy access to Venice’s treasures.

2. Eurocamp Italy Rome: Camping Village Fabulous

Location Highlights: Just outside Rome, this park is ideal for exploring the Eternal City while enjoying the peace of a well-equipped holiday site.

On-Site Features: Large pools, a splash park, and plenty of shaded relaxation areas.

Size: Medium-sized with a tranquil atmosphere, despite its proximity to Rome.

Nearby Attractions: Visit the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and Vatican City, all a short journey away.

Ideal For: History buffs and families who want a mix of sightseeing and downtime.

We loved this site and it's location so much, we've visited twice.

Click here to read our in-depth review of Camping Village Fabulous which includes everything you need to know about staying here.

3. Butterfly Camping Village (Lake Garda)

Location Highlights: Situated on the southern shores of Lake Garda, this smaller, intimate park offers breath taking views and a peaceful atmosphere.

On-Site Features: A swimming pool, direct lake access, restaurant, convenience store and family-friendly entertainment.

Size: One of the smallest Eurocamp parks, providing a cosy, family-friendly vibe.

Nearby Attractions: Explore Peschiera del Garda, Gardaland theme park, and the romantic city of Verona. Alternatively, take the train to Venice or Milan.

Again, as this park is in such a great location we've visited twice. Click here read our full review of Butterfly Camping and the surrounding area

4. Hu Norcenni Girasole Village (Tuscany)

Location Highlights: Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, this park offers stunning views and proximity to Florence, Siena, and other cultural gems.

On-Site Features: Multiple pools, a wellness centre, and even an on-site wine cellar for tastings.

Size: A large hillside park with extensive facilities and plenty of space to explore.

Nearby Attractions: Wander through medieval villages, enjoy authentic Tuscan cuisine, and marvel at Florence’s artistic heritage.

Ideal For: Couples and families seeking a mix of relaxation, culture, and culinary delights.

For our review of Hu Norcenni and how to reach this park without a car, click here

Search for Flights to Italy

✈️ Travel Logistics: Airports & Transport

When planning your Eurocamp holiday in Italy, consider the travel logistics:

Distance from Airports: Many parks are conveniently located near major airports like Venice Marco Polo or Rome Fiumicino.

Driving Distance from Ports: If arriving by ferry, calculate the driving time to your chosen park.

Public Transport Accessibility: Check for bus, train, or ferry connections to nearby towns and attractions.

Most of the camps we've included in this guide are easy to reach without driving.

Airports which Serve Each Region:

Venice Marco Polo → Venice coast parks

Verona / Milan Bergamo → Lake Garda

Rome Fiumicino → Rome camps

Pisa or Florence → Tuscany

Italy’s public transport makes exploring simple and budget-friendly - perfect for non-drivers. Don't forget to check our guide on doing Eurocamp without a Car which includes lots of valuable information if flying.

❓ Eurocamp Italy FAQs

When Is the Best Time to Visit Eurocamp in Italy?

The best time to visit Eurocamp parks in Italy is May to September, when the weather is warm, attractions are open, and most campsites run their full entertainment and pool schedules.

Pool opening times matter, especially for families, and Italy tend to vary by region:

Northern Italy (Lake Garda, Venice coast):

Pools often open mid-May and close early to mid-September. Temperatures are a little cooler here, so parks tend to run slightly shorter seasons.

Central & Southern Italy (Tuscany, Rome, Sardinia, Puglia):

Pools typically open late April/early May and stay open until late September, sometimes even into early October depending on weather.

Because the pool complex is the biggest part of the holiday for most kids, always check individual pool opening and closing dates before booking. Each park sets its own schedule, and it can vary year by year.

Do You Need a Car for Eurocamp Italy?

Not necessarily. Italy is one of the easiest countries in Europe to do Eurocamp without a car.

Many parks are:

Close to airports

Near train stations or bus routes

Easy to reach by public transport, especially around Rome, Venice, Tuscany and Lake Garda

All 4 parcs we’ve visited in Italy, we’ve flown to.

From parks like Butterfly Camping, Fabulous and Marina di Venezia, you can explore entire regions using trains, buses, ferries and shuttle services.

A car can be useful in more rural areas (like parts of Tuscany or Sardinia), but it’s absolutely not essential for many of the most popular Italian Eurocamps.

If you’re planning to go car-free, check out our full guide on Eurocamp without a car for tips on transfers, trains and the easiest parks for non-drivers.

Is Eurocamp Cheaper Than a Hotel in Italy?

For most families, yes, Eurocamp is usually cheaper than a hotel, especially in peak season.

Why: You pay one price per accommodation, not per person. You can cook some meals, which reduces food costs.

Parking (if needed) is normally free.

You get more space - terrace, living area, kitchen, without paying for multiple rooms.

As a family of six, we’d typically need two hotel rooms, which instantly doubles the cost. At Eurocamp we only need a three-bedroom lodge, which is almost always cheaper and comes with more space, privacy and flexibility.

For smaller families too, Eurocamp often works out better value than a city hotel, especially near Venice, Rome or Lake Garda during summer.

Why Choose a Eurocamp Italy in 2026?

Eurocamp Italy offers the most perfect mix of:

✔ sunshine

✔ beaches

✔ culture

✔ amazing food

✔ brilliant family facilities

✔ great value

Whether you want to explore Rome, wander Venice’s canals, dip in Lake Garda, or relax under the Tuscan sun, there’s a Eurocamp site to match your travel style.

Make 2026 the year you experience the magic of a Eurocamp holiday 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

How to Do Eurocamp Without a Car: The Ultimate Guide

Eurocamp type holidays have become a firm favourite with our family over the last 5 years.

When our children were small, they always loved visiting Center Parcs, but as adults, we preferred a city break and longed for warmer climates.

Eurocamp seemed to throw up the best solution- onsite activities for kids, fantastic pools and all based in a forest-like environment giving them extra freedom to explore.

For us adults, Eurocamp had the bonus of offering sites near major European Cities and some even having the added plus point of a beach and guaranteed sunshine.

And the best part?
You absolutely can do Eurocamp without a car.

In fact, as a larger family living in the north of England, we prefer to fly. No long 7-hour slog to Dover. No ferry queues. No motorway meltdowns. Just a quick flight and public transport from the airport to the parc.

Flying has allowed us to travel door-to-door in around 7 hours to sites in Holland and Italy!

In this guide, we’ll answer all the questions people search for, including:

Which Eurocamps are near an airport?

What’s the best Eurocamp without a car?

Which Eurocamp can you fly to most easily?

Do Eurocamp arrange flights?

How do you pack for Eurocamp without a car?

I’ll also share the car-free Eurocamp parks we’ve personally visited across Italy and Holland, along with tips to make the whole experience smooth, stress-free and budget-friendly.

Can You Go to Eurocamp Without a Car?

Yes, you can! Many Eurocamp sites are conveniently located near airports or accessible via public transport. Of course, there's always the option to fly, then rent a car on arrival.

Every Eurocamp we’ve visited over the last five years has been:

✔ close to a major airport
✔ connected by reliable public transport
✔ easy to navigate without needing a hire car
✔ walkable or bike-friendly once on site

Search For the Cheapest Car Hire

Which Eurocamps Are Best to Visit Without a Car?

Below you'll Eurocamp sites we’ve visited without a car, plus others that rank as the best Eurocamps near an airport - ideal if you're searching for Eurocamps you can fly to or Eurocamp holidays with flights.

🇮🇹 Best Eurocamp Italy Sites (Car-Free)

Italy is one of the easiest countries to do Eurocamp without driving. Great transport, reliable shuttle buses, and airports close by.

1. Camping Village Fabulous (Rome)

Distance from airport: 12 miles from Fiumicino
Why it’s one of the best Eurocamps without a car:

Bus stop outside the gates

Easy access to the Rome Metro

Perfect mix of pools, pine forest, beaches + sightseeing

This is the simplest Eurocamp in Italy with flights if you want to combine pool days and Roman history.

This site is often cheaper booked direct, which we have done before here

Read our full review of Camping Village Fabulous here

2. Marina di Venezia (Venice)

Distance from Airport: 15 miles from Venice Marco Polo Airport.

Transport Links: Buses and ferries offer regular service between the airport, Venice city centre, and the park.

Why it’s the best Eurocamp near an airport in Italy:

Huge pool complex

World-class entertainment

White sandy beach behind the parc
Ferries to Venice every 30 minutes

Still the best Eurocamp we’ve visited - hands down.

3. Butterfly Camping Village (Lake Garda)

Distance from airport: 12 miles from Verona

Airport Transport: Train from Verona → Peschiera station → 10-minute walk

Why it’s great without a car:

Right next to Peschiera town

Lakeside walks

Easy day trips to Verona, Milan or Venice

A brilliant Eurocamp near an airport for families wanting a smaller parc with a perfect location.

We've visited Butterfly camping twice and found it cheaper to book direct here

📌 Read our full review of Camping Butterfly here.

4. Hu Norcenni Girasole Village (Tuscany)

Distance from airport: 72 miles from Pisa (but worth it!)

Transport: Shuttle to train station → Florence & beyond

Why it works even without a car:

On-site shuttle

Huge pool complexes

Mountain views, great restaurants, live music

A bigger transfer than the others, but still one of our favourite Eurocamps in Italy.

Again, this can often be cheaper booked directly. Check prices here.

📌 Read our full review here of Hu Norceinni Girsole Village here

For our complete list of Eurocamps in Italy (50+ sites) click here

🇳🇱 Best Eurocamp in Holland Without a Car

5. Duinrell (Amsterdam)

Distance from airport: 25 miles from Schiphol
Transport: Train → bus to the parc entrance

One of the easiest Eurocamps to get to from the UK.

Why go car-free here?

Free theme park entry
Epic waterpark (the largest indoor waterpark in the Benelux region)
Safe cycling routes
Ideal for Amsterdam + The Hague
Easily walk the 5 mins in to Waasenaar town.

We loved it here and will definitely return at some point.

For our full review of Duinrell click here

🇫🇷 Best Eurocamp France Sites Without a Car

6. La Croix du Vieux Pont (Paris)

Distance from airport: 45 miles from Charles de Gaulle
Transport: Shuttle buses & organised day trips

Perfect if you're looking for a Eurocamp close to an airport and want to visit Disneyland Paris or central Paris.

To look at booking this camp directly click here

7. Les Méditerranées – Nouvelle Floride (South of France)

Distance from airport: 9 miles from Béziers Cap d’Agde
Transport: Local buses + taxis

Ideal for beaches, sunshine and families who prefer to stay mostly onsite.

🇪🇸 Best Eurocamp Spain Sites Without a Car

8. Cambrils Park (Costa Dorada)

Distance from airport: 9 miles from Reus

Transport: Direct buses to Salou + the parc area

Why it’s one of the best Eurocamps you can fly to:

Close to PortAventura World

Stunning pools

Great for kids of all ages

Don't forget to compare prices with the site itself here

Do Eurocamp Arrange Flights?

Short answer: No.

But that’s actually a bonus.
Booking your own flights gives you control over:

price

times

luggage

airport choice

We usually save hundreds by booking Eurocamp accommodation + flights separately.

Looking for Eurocamp holidays with flights 2026?

Just book your parc, then use Skyscanner/Google Flights for deals.

🎒 What to Pack for Eurocamp Without a Car

Here’s our streamlined packing approach after years of car-free Eurocamp travel.

Everything below fits neatly into a 20kg suitcase, leaving room in other bags for clothing and personal items.

🛏 Bedding & towels

Eurocamp charges:

£22 single

£34 double

For a family of 6, this adds up fast.

Our solution:
We bring old bedding & towels → use them on site → recycle or leave for other guests → fly home with extra suitcase space.

🍳 Kitchen essentials

Pack small versions of:

tea towels

bin bags

condiments (in 100ml travel bottles)

washing-up liquid

sponges

🧺 Laundry

Dr Beckmann Magic Leaves

Portable washing line + pegs

Collapsible bag for shopping

🧴 Toiletries

We order from Boots airside to save space in our cases.

📝 Tips for a Smooth Car-Free Eurocamp Trip

✔ Pre-book airport transfers
✔ Check local buses before you go
✔ Use bikes once on site
✔ Shop locally on site where possible
✔ Choose a parc walkable from town or transport

Why We Prefer Eurocamp Holidays Without a Car

For us, a holiday starts the moment we step inside the airport. No motorway stress. No breakdown drama. No long ferry crossing. Just a direct, easy journey.

We often find flights + luggage for all six of us for £500–£600 return which coming from the north, is far cheaper than fuel + tolls + ferries.

Ready to Plan Your Car-Free Eurocamp Adventure?

Ready to plan your next adventure? Explore your flight options and Eurocamp locations today!

Whether you’re heading to Rome, Venice, Lake Garda, Paris or The Netherlands, going car-free is completely doable — and often cheaper, easier and more relaxing.