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The Benefits of Small Group Tours of Italy
Embarking on a small group tour of Italy with Collette offers an intimate and enriching travel experience that’s a cut above the rest. With an average of only 19 travellers and a maximum of 24, our small group Italy tours provide a truly personal and engaging journey. Think of it as a VIP backstage pass to Italy’s hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path locations.
Small group tours retain the charm and intimacy of independent travel but come with the ease and expertise of guided tours—no more squinting at maps or deciphering train schedules! This makes them perfect for those who want to delve into Italy’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture without the stress of planning every detail.
With our expertly curated itineraries, you’ll enjoy a seamless and unforgettable adventure, whether it’s savouring local delicacies, exploring ancient ruins, or simply soaking in the picturesque views. So, sit back, relax, and let us handle the logistics whilst you bask in la dolce vita.
Ease of Transport Around Italy
Navigating Italy’s picturesque landscapes and historic cities can be challenging, especially for first-time visitors. Italy’s winding roads, bustling cities, and rural paths, whilst beautiful, can be tricky to traverse without local knowledge.
Small group tours eliminate this hassle by offering seamless transport. Whether you’re Travelling by cosy minibuses designed for intimate groups or hopping on a private coach, the logistics are handled for you, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey. Imagine cruising along the Amalfi Coast, with its breathtaking views, or ascending the sides of Mount Etna on an off-road excursion, with every detail taken care of.
Meeting Like-Minded People
One of the joys of small group tours is the opportunity to connect with like-minded travellers. Sharing experiences with others who share your passion for exploration and adventure can make your journey even more enjoyable.
In a small group setting, there are many chances to bond with fellow travellers through shared experiences and common interests. From exploring the charming hill towns of Umbria and hunting for truffles in Tuscany, to enjoying a Vivaldi concert in Venice or a sunset in Positano, these shared moments often lead to meaningful connections and lifelong friendships.
Additional History of Italy
A knowledgeable tour guide can make all the difference on your trip to Italy. Small group tours feature guides who are experts in their field, offering in-depth insights and fascinating stories about the country’s history, culture, and landmarks.
At Collette, our guides live in the destinations they tour, bringing a deep personal connection to each place. They are storytellers and culture whisperers who help unlock the soul of Italy. Imagine delving into the history of the ancient temples in Agrigento or understanding the Baroque architecture of Ragusa through the eyes of a local expert.
Your Itinerary is Taken Care Of
One of the biggest advantages of choosing a small group tour for your trip to Italy is the convenience of a pre-planned itinerary. All the details are taken care of, from accommodation and transport to activities and meals. This means you can relax and enjoy your trip without the stress of planning and organizing.
With Collette’s small group Italy tours, you’ll visit iconic sites, enjoy local experiences, and have the flexibility to explore at your own pace in your free time. Picture yourself tasting traditionally made Parmigiano cheese at a culinary school in Romagna or participating in a hands-on cooking class in a Tuscan villa—every aspect of your tour is thoughtfully curated.
7 Small Group Tours in Italy
1. Best of Italy
Discover the beauty and history of Italy on this comprehensive tour that takes you to Venice, Florence, and Rome. In Venice, you’ll glide under bridges on a gondola ride and attend a Vivaldi concert in the city he lived in. Florence offers a walking tour featuring its artistic gems, whilst Rome provides a deep dive into its catacombs and artistic masterpieces. Highlights include exploring Chiusi’s Labyrinth of Porsenna and participating in a hands-on cooking class in Romagna, topped off with a delightful food tour dinner in Rome’s Trastevere district.
2. Tuscan & Umbrian Countryside featuring Italy's Charming Hill Towns
Explore the less-traveled roads of Umbria and Tuscany on this enchanting tour. Visit Etruscan hill towns like Spoleto, where the cathedral’s gilded façade contrasts beautifully with the silvery olive trees. Hunt for truffles with a local expert in Umbria and stand inside Siena’s historic piazza. The tour also includes a visit to Florence, the “Cradle of the Renaissance,” and a stay in a restored Tuscan villa. Highlights include truffle hunting, a home-cooked meal in an Umbrian country home, and sampling Brunello red wine in Montalcino.
3. Italy: Amalfi Coast to Puglia
Stray off the beaten path and explore southern Italy on this unique tour. From the historic streets of Naples to the sun-kissed Amalfi Coast, this journey offers a blend of iconic sites and hidden gems. You’ll see the Veiled Christ statue in Naples, sample wines from the volcanic soil near Pompeii, and spend a free afternoon in Positano. The tour also includes two nights in a cave dwelling in Matera and a stay in a personal converted house in Puglia. Highlights include a private performance of Neapolitan songs and a multi-stop dinner in Lecce.
4. Sicily and Its Isles
Explore the rich cultural tapestry of Sicily and its surrounding isles. This tour takes you from Palermo’s vibrant food markets to the ancient ruins of Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples. Enjoy two nights on the tranquil Isle of Salina, where you’ll visit a traditional caper farm, and spend three nights in Taormina, perched above the Ionian Sea. You’ll also experience an off-road excursion on Mount Etna. Highlights include an olive oil tasting at a Slow Food farm, a Marsala wine tour, and a walking tour of Ragusa’s Baroque architecture.
5. Italy's Treasures: Art, Food & Wine of Italy
Venture through Italy’s most iconic regions on this tour that combines art, food, and wine. From the Alpine Lakes to the Tuscan countryside, you’ll enjoy the best of northern Italy. Spend two nights in Venice, explore the medieval villages of Cinque Terre, and ride off-road vehicles in the Carrara marble quarries. The tour also includes a four-night stay at a Tuscan villa, where you’ll participate in a hands-on cooking class. Highlights include wine tasting in the Italian Lakes region, gelato in San Gimignano, and a guided tour of Florence.
6. Old World Sicily & Malta
Discover the rich history and culture of Sicily and Malta on this fascinating tour. You’ll explore the archaeological heritage of Siracusa, enjoy an off-road excursion on Mount Etna, and delve into the Baroque architecture of Ragusa. In Malta, you’ll spend four nights in Sliema, experiencing the island’s dynamic past. Highlights include a family-style dinner at a local club in Malta, a Sicilian cappuccino and pastry breakfast, and a visit to a family-owned organic herb farm.
7. Mediterranean Coastal Journey: Spain, France & Italy
Experience the Mediterranean coast from Spain to Italy on this immersive journey. Start in Barcelona with a visit to La Sagrada Familia, then taste Provençal cuisine in Marseille and explore the colourful villages of Cinque Terre. The tour continues through the French Riviera and Monaco, ending with truffle hunting in Tuscany. Highlights include dining at a 17th-century farmhouse in Catalonia, a winery tour in Provence, and a taste of Italian focaccia and pesto in Genoa.
Book Your Italy Small Group Tour with Collette
Ready to explore Italy in an intimate and enriching way? Book your small group tour with Collette and discover unique experiences that await. Our expert guides and carefully curated itineraries will make your Italian adventure unforgettable. Join us and experience the magic of a Collette small group tour.
