For the Love of Italy
After twelve years of traversing many of the twenty regions of Italy, I know there is so much more to discover and many more years of exciting adventures. There is something unusual, something wonderful, something unexpected around every corner. I have loved Italy from day one. Every time I return, I know why.
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In the words of Frances Mayes, “In Italy you can find the place that corresponds to your soul more easily than any other place in the world.”
Ciao Italy Tours are designed to capture the true essence of Italy so that you feel totally immersed in local culture. The days are leisurely paced, but filled with different adventures for you to experience Italy as a traveller, not as a tourist. This is an Italy that will tug at your heartstrings.
Like most stories, it began with an idea in 2008 . . . to create an exclusive travel adventure for a small group of like minded people who enjoyed being active, had a passion for wandering Italy and wanted a truly authentic experience.
Planning a trip to Italy with the internet and guide book may not have you walking a hidden path without a tourist in sight; eating glorious food in a tucked away cobblestone alleyway or engaging with locals in the daily rituals of Italian life.
Groups are small with no more than 12 people – perfect if you are a solo traveller, a couple or a few friends seeking an unforgettable adventure in Italy.
We wander narrow, winding streets in walled medieval hilltop towns, order cappuccino Italian style (al banco), explore outdoor markets, discover artisans working in tiny shops, are spellbound by thousands of years of history, walk ancient, awe inspiring trails and eat simple, delicious food amidst loud Italian families.
Meticulous planning and research goes into every trip to ensure you are getting a perfect balance of local experiences and time to wander and explore at your own pace. Not too structured because often the most treasured memory will be something unplanned and totally spontaneous!
“Whenever I go anywhere but Italy for a vacation, I always feel as if I have made a mistake.”
Erica Jong
10 Reasons to travel with Ciao Italy!
Authentic experience
It is a passionate, intimate, authentic journey, allowing you to experience Italy from a local perspective.
Small groups
Groups are small with an average of 10 and a maximum of 12. We visit and stay in small, quintessential hilltop towns, eat in tiny trattorie where the locals eat, explore places off the tourist grid on foot, in a wooden boat, on a bicycle or on a vespa behind a driver/guide.
Time to explore
A three night minimum in most places is the difference between experiencing a place or seeing a place.
Intimate knowledge
Twelve years of organising and guiding tours through Italy, including time spent in Italian Language School in Tuscany.
No third party
Everything is booked directly including accommodation, private transfers, tours and places to eat.
Perfect balance
Not too structured with the perfect balance of organised local adventures, choices of special interest activities and free time for wandering and exploring.
Central accommodation
Accommodation in historical, often family owned 3-4 star boutique hotels and villas centrally located in the centro historico, town piazza, lake edge or seaside.
Up to the minute research
Research is a continual journey, sourcing the best local places to eat, drink and shop where artisans are at work in their small shops, as well as new places and tiny towns off the tourist radar.
Sensational walks
Walks on ancient, hidden trails with rarely a tourist in sight.
Experienced travel consultant
Recommendations and assistance with booking flights and travel insurance.