There’s simply no place like Italy. Fine wine, food that is so delicious in its simplicity and care, friendly, welcoming people. Not to mention some of the most impressive historical sites in the world, famous art pieces, the rolling hills of Tuscany, idyllic seaside towns, and the romantic gondolas of Venice. And the gelato. Did we mention the gelato?

Italy is truly spectacular and it’s possible to spend a month or more and not get bored. For senior travelers looking for the perfect European getaway, Italy provides it all.

Traveling with an Italy tour will help ensure you see as much as possible while remaining comfortable and keeping a good pace.

Venturing Beyond Italy’s “Big Three”

It’s tough to argue with the appeal of Italy’s three major tourist cities – even despite their tourist reputation – Rome, Florence, & Venice all provide the pinnacle of Italian art, culture, and food. So if you only have a little bit of time, or are visiting for the first time, it is highly recommended to visit one or all of these incredible cities.

However, if you have the time, there are dozens of more off the beaten track places to experience in Italy. Imagine the fair Verona – which may sound familiar for its fateful lovers Romeo and Juliet.

Or consider distinct Bologna in the north, where the famous bolognese sauce originated – the perfect spot for a food tour. Perhaps you’re curious to explore Puglia “Italy’s heel” and an up and coming tourist hot spot.

Cinque Terre, the seaside paradise is another draw. Seniors traveling in Italy may find this car-less city a bit difficult to navigate, but not impossible. Walking or cycling is the only way to take in Cinque Terre’s winding streets, and many steps are very steep. But if you’re ready for a little activity, Cinque Terre is an unforgettable destination with incredible views if you’re willing to work for it.

The enigmatic island Sicily, just off Italys boot, is certainly an Italian destination for those wanting an “off the beaten path” kind of adventure. Sicily is very much it’s own culture and a great spot for history buffs looking to dive deeper into the Mediterraneans ancient past.

Art Tours of Italy

The words “art and Italy” are practically synonymous as the Italian renaissance provided the world with some of the greatest artistic masterpieces of all time. An art tour will reveal so much detail behind each piece and take you to see more obscure pieces as well as the famous ones.

If you can, booking a private tour of the Vatican, it is highly recommended. Especially if you have difficulty walking, or feel a strain looking up. When you visit this spectacular building during normal tour hours, it can feel a bit like you’re a herded sheep. Everyone being ushered along until you reach the bottleneck of the Sistine Chapel – the Vatican’s Mona Lisa.

Private guided Italy tours eliminate the stress of needing to keep pace, as well as allow you to rest between moments of craning your neck to see the famous ceiling created by Michelangelo in 1508. No one should feel rushed while taking in this monumental feat.

Michelangelo’s masterpiece deserves to be taken in without being crushed and ostled by crowds of grumpy tourists, stressed tour guides, and disgruntled kids wondering why their parents dragged them here. Senior tours in Italy that include the Vatican on the itinerary often take care to visit after hours or at least arrange a private or semi-private viewing.

Food & Wine in Italy

How could one visit Italy and not enjoy the food? From the delight of a tasty gelato in the middle of a busy sightseeing day, to lingering over a classic thin crust pizza, to the impeccable coffee and desserts, there is nothing quite like the eating experience in Italy.

Italy tours for seniors usually incorporate plenty of leisure time to explore Italy’s food scene. Depending on your tour, most meals will either be included or excluded so be sure to pick a tour that fits your tastes and interests.

If you’re wanting to spend a lot of time with your tour mates and don’t want the added stress of choosing a restaurant each night, a more inclusive tour will be up your ally. But if you’re more independent minded and prefer your evenings free, finding a trip with ample free time will ensure you enjoy your trip to the fullest. Tour guides usually have great recommendations for eating as well, in a variety of price ranges.

See Culinary & Wine tours in Italy

Wine tasting in Italy is another can’t miss experience. Many senior tours in Italy itineraries include wine tasting, sometimes even with a private vineyard tour where you can learn more about the wine production process and varietals Italy is famous for.