Where to go on vacation in Italy: sea, mountains, lakes and cities

For sea lovers: from the Rivieras to the islands

If for you vacation means the smell of saltiness, sun-gilded skin and dips in crystal-clear waters, Italy's coasts never disappoint. Here's where to find the best beach destinations in Italy.

Riviera Romagnola, hospitality and fun for families and young people

Milano Marittima is synonymous with authentic Italian summer. Well-equipped establishments, sea-view restaurants and nightclubs make this resort perfect for those seeking a mix of relaxation and social life. Plus, the Riviera Romagnola is famous for its hospitality: here, even families with children find tailor-made services.

Sicily: Caribbean beaches meeting history and unique flavors

In Sicily, every vacation is also a journey through time. Beaches like San Vito Lo Capo seem stolen from the tropics, but around the corner you find Greek temples, Arab markets and freshly baked cannoli.

Also not to be missed is Ortigia, the historic heart of Syracuse, where you can swim a stone's throw from the Baroque palaces.

Tip: Travel in June or September to enjoy less crowded beaches and perfect temperatures.

Liguria, iconic villages overlooking the sea in the Gulf of Poets

For those who love authentic beauty, Liguria offers poetic vistas and hidden beaches. Arenzano, Lerici and Rapallo are ideal for those seeking a slow vacation of sunsets over the sea, strolls through the carruggi and dinners of fresh pesto. Ideal for couple trips or long weekends of relaxation and good food.

For those seeking fresh air and adventure: the most beautiful mountains

If your idea of a vacation is breathing hard, walking through the woods and waking up with views of the peaks, Italy has mountains that look like they've been painted.

Campiglio Pradalago, summer trekking

Nestled in the Brenta Dolomites, Campiglio Pradalago is a paradise for those who love to walk. Trails suitable for all levels lead to scenic refuges, alpine lakes, and mountain pastures where you can stop for dumplings or polenta with mushrooms.

Extra tip: Try the trail from Graffer Hut to Nambino Lake, one of the most scenic in the area.

Aosta Valley, relaxation and adventure under the Matterhorn

In the Aosta Valley, winter has a charm all its own. The perfect slopes of Cervinia offer miles of scenic runs, ideal for both experienced skiers and beginners. But there's more than just skiing: you can snowshoe at the foot of the Matterhorn, relax at the Pré-Saint-Didier spa, or explore snowy castles that look like something out of a fairy tale.

Perfect for those who want to alternate between adrenaline and wellness, the Aosta Valley is also the place to be for a romantic getaway amid blazing fireplaces, wooden chalets and heart-warming mountain fare.

The Piedmont Alps: ski slopes and adrenaline rush

If you dream of an active ski vacation, Piedmont does not disappoint. Sauze d'Oulx, in the Via Lattea ski area, is a landmark for ski lovers: wide slopes, guaranteed snow and postcard-perfect views.

After a busy day, you can relax in a mountain hut with steaming polenta and mulled wine, or discover the more authentic side of Alpine villages. A perfect destination for those seeking sports, nature and authenticity without sacrificing comfort.

Moments of relaxation and romance at the lake

For those seeking a vacation among nature, tranquility and postcard views, Italian lakes are a perfect choice.

The largest in Italy is also one of the most varied. On the Brescian shore, Desenzano del Garda is one of the liveliest destinations: waterfront restaurants, live music venues and comfortable beaches.

On the north side is a sportsman's paradise, including windsurfing, hiking and scenic climbing. It is also perfect for families, with bike paths, ice cream parlors and water parks.

Tips: combine lake and city for a complete trip between relaxation, culture and nature.

A plunge into culture: the must-see art cities

If you want to not only relax but also nourish your eyes and mind, Italian art cities are always a guarantee.

Rome

The eternal capital. In every corner a story, in every square a work of art. Rome is ideal in spring and fall, when the weather is pleasant without being too hot and you will happily walk from the Imperial Forum to Villa Borghese, from Trastevere to the Jewish Ghetto.

Tips: book the Vatican museums in advance. Avoid tourist restaurants: discover real Roman cuisine in the most authentic neighborhoods like Testaccio or Garbatella.

Venice

Unique, suspended over the water. Venice is pure emotion, from getting lost among the bridges and the calli, discovering the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello. or in the evening, with the reflections of the lights on the canals. Perfect in winter, when tourism slows down and the city reveals its most romantic face, especially during the typical Carnival.

Florence

For those who love Renaissance art, good food and timeless elegance. A weekend in Florence is like a trip to an open-air art gallery. Every street is a surprise: Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi. But also the Chianti hills just a stone's throw away, perfect for a trip out of town. Ideal for a long weekend in all seasons.

Tips: Book the Uffizi online and enjoy a dinner in Oltrarno to enjoy typical cuisine and more authentic atmosphere.

Where to go on vacation in Italy?

Every season has its ideal destination. The important thing is to leave in the right mood.

• Summer: sea, lakes, mountains. In high season, choose less famous destinations to avoid crowding.
• Autumn: art cities, Tuscan hills, villages and foliage. Great for those who like to travel leisurely.
• Winter: mountains for skiing and snowshoeing, cities like Venice and Rome to avoid crowds.
• Spring: perfect for hiking, biking, art cities and weekends at the lake.

One last tip for choosing based on your travel style

Think about how you want to feel on vacation: pampered, inspired, active, relaxed?

The right destination is the one that makes you come home different from how you left.

Hotiday selects rooms in ideal locations for you, with smart amenities and solutions that make travel easier and more beautiful.

Less stress, more vacation. Explore Hotiday's Room Collections and choose your next destination.