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Active Holidays in Italy

Rarely in the world does any active holiday destination boast such an exquisite harmony between rich history, vibrant culture, and opportunity for adventure as Italy.

No matter where you go in Italy, your journey will always be made even more special with the quintessential elements of ‘la dolce vita’ – incredible local produce, good wine, and world-class hospitality. Discover Italy's extensive network of walking trails as you traverse the Cinque Terre in Liguria, enjoy a weeks walking in Tuscany based at an organic farm, or go island hopping around Sicily and the Aeolian islands and you’ll see what we mean.

Featured Holidays in Italy

View all Italian holidays
Walking the Tour du Mont Blanc
Best of the Tour du Mont Blanc

Italy, France

Hotel based one week Alpine walking holiday around Mont Blanc, including all meals and luggage transfers

Walk & Trek
Guided Group
CHALLENGING CHALLENGING

8 days from

US$3,400 without flights

Approaching the Matterhorn, just out of sight...taken by Hanna Burrows, KE traveller
Classic Haute Route

Italy, France

Traverse the Alps from Mont Blanc to the Matterhorn - the ultimate Alpine mountaineering holiday

Mountaineer
Guided Group
TOUGH TOUGH

13 days from

US$4,685 without flights

A group shot from the summit - taken by Cathryn from Belper on trip.jpg
Italian High Level Route

Italy, Switzerland

The ultimate Alpine introductory week completing a cross-border circuit through Switzerland and Italy

Mountaineer
Guided Group
CHALLENGING CHALLENGING

8 days from

US$2,925 without flights

Rifugio Margherita on top of Signalkuppe
Italian Summit Climber

Italy

A week of mountaineering based in the Monte Rosa group of the Italian Alps. Stay in mountain huts and climb up to six 4000m summits.

Mountaineer
Guided Group
CHALLENGING CHALLENGING

7 days from

US$2,695 without flights

Photogenic Alberobello
E-Bike Available
Self-Guided Cycling in Puglia

Italy

Discover the unspoilt nature of Italy’s heel on this one week self-guided cycling holiday in Puglia

Cycle
Self-Guided
LEISURELY LEISURELY

8 days from

US$1,705 without flights

The Grand Canal, Venice bathed in morning light
E-Bike Available
Self-Guided Cycling Bolzano to Venice

Italy

Cycle from the Italian Alps to Venice, sail across Lake Garda, and explore Verona - all at your own pace

Cycle
Self-Guided
LEISURELY LEISURELY

8 days from

US$1,785 without flights

Looking down over Vernazza
Self-Guided Walking in Cinque Terre

Italy

Discover the five colourful villages of the Cinque Terre on our self-guided walking holiday on the Italian Riviera

Walk & Trek
Self-Guided
LEISURELY LEISURELY

7 days from

US$760 without flights

Florence from afar
Self-Guided Walking in Tuscany

Italy

Discover Florence, Chianti, San Gimignano, and Siena - the jewels of Tuscany - as you wind your way to the Tuscan Coast

Walk & Trek
Self-Guided
LEISURELY LEISURELY

8 days from

US$1,510 without flights

Approaching your final goal, motivated by the views of Rome's skyline
Self-Guided Walking Camino - Via Francigena - Montefiascone to Rome

Italy

Immerse yourself in the history of the Via Francigena as you walk the final 100km of this pilgrimage to Rome.

Walk & Trek
Self-Guided
MODERATE MODERATE

8 days from

US$1,140 without flights

Recent Reviews

Best of the Tour du Mont Blanc
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Best of the Tour du Mont Blanc

overall great trip, well organized, great overnights...

By Jeff from vinton | July 3, 2024
Best of the Tour du Mont Blanc
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Best of the Tour du Mont Blanc Trek

Great guide, well chosen routes, hotels and restaurants. Lauris set the pace of the group well, gave personal advice where needed, was entusiastic and knowledgeable about the TMB, the geology and social aspects of the mountains....

By Lee from sheffield | August 11, 2024
Walking the Islands and Volcanoes of Sicily
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Sicily

Good communication from beginning with all questions answered and prompt and helpful responses. Good variety of tours. All round good experience....

By Fiona from meikirch | June 17, 2024
Walking the Islands and Volcanoes of Sicily
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Whole holiday superb

KE office - David my point of contact, patient, knowledgeable and a lovely person to speak to. Tony made a wonderful holiday even better. A Sicilian with local knowledge, wider interests, a caring, gentle, friendly and super guide. Many thanks To...

By Liz from wigton | June 22, 2024

The Heights of Italy

Climbing the 4000-meter peaks of the Italian Alps stands as a remarkable highlight due to the unparalleled combination of challenge and awe-inspiring beauty that it offers. Scaling these majestic mountains requires both physical prowess and mental determination, making it a true accomplishment and an amazing Italian adventure holiday.

Mountaineering in Italy

Italy is home to a staggering portion of incredible Alpine peaks, which offer something for beginners and experienced walkers alike. Dip your toes in with the perfect Alpine introduction week on our high-level route, which offers expert alpine mountaineering skills tuition, or climb 4000m peaks with an Italian Summits or Gran Paradiso trekking adventure. Take to new heights with our Via Ferrata holidays, where you’ll have a bird's eye view of the stunning region below after scrambling various peaks. 

Walking on the Amalfi Coast

Walking on the Amalfi Coast is an exceptional highlight owing to the blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and authentic Italian charm that it presents. The coastal trails wind along cliff edges, offering astonishing views of the azure Mediterranean Sea and the colorful villages perched on the hillsides. As you stroll through charming towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, you'll encounter cobblestone streets, vibrant markets, and ancient architecture that transports you back in time.

Island Hopping in Italy

Island hopping in Italy is a fantastic way to experience the country's diverse beauty, culture, and history. Each island boasts its own unique character, from the rustic tranquillity of Sicily to the chic allure of Capri. This adventure allows you to immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of landscapes, culinary delights, and local traditions. The seamless transitions between islands offer a sense of exploration and discovery, providing the chance to uncover ancient ruins, enjoy stunning beaches, and indulge in regional cuisines. 

Whether you're captivated by the historical wonders of Sicily, the romantic charm of Venice, or the artistic allure of Sardinia, island hopping in Italy promises a dynamic and enriching journey that embodies the essence of the Mediterranean way of life.

Guided vs Self-Guided in Italy

Italy boasts an eclectic and diverse mix of adventure. From conquering mountains in the north to relaxing coastal saunters in the south. But the question that many as is; guided or self-guided?

Guided trips offer expert local guides who provide insights into Italy's rich culture, history, and hidden gems. They ensure a hassle-free experience, an opportunity to meet likeminded individuals and often get to places only accessible with the skills and knowledge of the guide. Self-guided adventures provide more flexibility, enabling travellers to explore at their own pace, enjoying the holiday with friends, family or even just by themselves.

5 of our favourite places for an active holiday in Italy

From the rugged Dolomites to the sun blushed southern Mediterranean Islands there's so many places to explore on an active holiday in Italy.

The Dolomites

The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site in northern Italy, are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. In winter, snowshoeing through these majestic mountains allows you to immerse yourself in a serene winter wonderland, surrounded by towering peaks and pristine snowfields. During the warmer months, the Dolomites offer world-class hiking trails with breathtaking vistas, including the famous Alta Via routes. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the region is also renowned for its exhilarating via ferrata routes, which provide an opportunity to traverse dramatic cliffs and rock faces while secured by a safety cable.


Sicily

The stunning Italian island of Sicily is home to beautiful architecture, breath-taking scenery, mouth-watering cuisine, delicious wines, fascinating culture and charming villages, plus a labyrinth of wonderful trails. We recommend you immerse yourself in Sicily’s culture, from the Baroque masterpiece of Catania, to the famed hill-top gem of Taormina, the island is fantastic for culture lovers who want an active holiday to Italy.

 

Tuscany

Enjoy this famous region of Italy by foot. Walk through the rolling green hills and medieval towns of Florence, Chianti and San Gimignano or trek in the breath-taking mountain ranges, rich alpine meadows, vineyards and olive groves in the wild and dramatic Garfagnana.

 

Sardinia

Described as one of the Mediterranean’s finest gems, Sardinia’s vibrant landscape, excellent cuisine, wild mountains, jaw-dropping canyons, spectacular cliffs, hidden coves and dramatic coastlines make it the perfect destination for an active holiday in Italy.  Along with its rich culture and fascinating history the characterful Sardinians will ensure you a warm welcome.


Italian Alps

The Italian alps are not only known for their beauty but also for the welcoming relaxed mountain huts. From the top of Italy; Gran Paradiso at 4061m to the Via Ferratas above Cortina down to the relative low altitudes of the valleys as part of the Tour du Mont Blanc – there are stunning landscapes, wonderful food and adventure for all.

 


 
 








 


 
 








 


 
 








 


 
 








 


 
 








 


 
 








 


 
 








 

More Information About Italy

The best time for an active holiday in Italy varies depending on the type of activities you prefer. Spring and autumn offer a pleasant balance of weather and fewer crowds, making them generally favorable for various outdoor pursuits. Summer is perfect for beach activities, and winter caters to winter sports enthusiasts in the mountainous regions.

Worldwide Adventure Holidays

We offer over 360 active adventures in 100 countries worldwide. Best known for our pioneering itineraries and challenging trips with an 'edge', we also offer a range of easier guided and self-guided walking, cycling, family and wildlife journeys throughout the world. Based in Keswick in the Lake District, we are passionate about creating unique travel experiences for our customers.

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From leisurely walking and cycling to push-your-limits expeditions.

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Worldwide

400 Guided Group and Self-Guided adventures in 100 countries.

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100% carbon absorption. Caring for the environment and local communities.

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