Elevate Destinations

Experts in socially responsible luxury travel. We design travel experiences that support conservation and local communities without skimping on comfort.

Italy

Eco-Luxury Adventures

You'll leave Italy longing to return

Italy enchants visitors with its diverse terrain, millennia-old history, and delectable cuisine. From the rolling hills and vineyards of Tuscany to the romantic canals of Venice and the ancient ruins of Rome, each part of this beautiful country offers a unique experience waiting to be discovered.

The allure of Italy extends beyond the mainland to the stunning island of Sardinia, known for its crystal-clear waters, wild coastlines, and rugged mountainous interior, making it an ideal destination for families and romantic getaways. Wander through the Nuragic Villages of Tiscali and Sos Carros, indulge in farm-to-table cuisine paired with exceptional regional wines, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the Sardinian people. Whether strolling along the colorful streets of Orgosolo, admiring Sardinia's unique ancient Nuraghi structures, or relaxing on award-winning beaches like Cala Mariolu, Sardinia offers a feast for the senses at every turn.

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What our travelers are saying

  • A couple sits on a decorated gondola in a canal, kissing and holding hands, with old brick buildings in the background—capturing a scene reminiscent of Donna Natrajan’s romantic artistry.

    “Working with Dominique and Emily in planning our trip to Rome, Venice and Lake Como was a joy! The planning process evolved, and they handled every request we had with such grace. They made sure the experience was seamless, so all we had to do was worry about having a great time! ”

    –Donna Natrajan, Italy

  • “We really loved the trip. Kids and I had a blast. I think there was a good mix of activities and free time and feel we got exposure to a lot of things. The kids loved the trip so much, were up for doing everything and also didn't want to rest at the hotel on their day off. We were all truly so so happy with the trip, the thoughtful planning you all put into it is appreciated.”

    –Aisha Shaheen, Portugal

  • A couple stands on a dirt trail, surrounded by green shrubs and trees under a cloudy sky, with distant hills in the background.

    “Elevate Destinations is outstanding! They were incredibly responsive and adaptive to our needs. The itinerary they created and managed for us resulted in one of my best travel experiences ever. It was the perfect balance between free time and activity, and the Elevate team was so helpfully responsive and accommodating.”

    –Cassandra McIntosh, Portugal

  • Spain: A stone bell tower with ornate details rises behind orange trees laden with fruit under a clear blue sky.

    “We very much appreciated the attention to detail and the efforts to accommodate our interests and limitations. The responsiveness of the staff, both remote and local, took much of the effort and worry out of international travel. Thank you for planning our family vacation to Spain!”

    –Ann Rauch, Spain

  • Greece: A stone path bordered by flowers and shrubs leads to a small white building, overlooking blue water and rocky hills under a clear sky on a sunny day.

    “Elevate Destinations goes above and beyond to plan and execute a perfect trip. They work diligently to ensure that your goals are met, and they make travel smooth and easy.”

    –Sarah Sharpe, Greece

  • Norway: Several people in yellow kayaks paddle near a glacier and floating ice in calm, cold water under a cloudy sky.

    “Elevate Destinations is responsive, communicative, and thoughtful. The itinerary was designed beautifully, allowing us to enter a new country with a thorough introduction then complemented with unique and tailored experiences. The trip was immersive and pushed our limits, which really enabled a shared family experience.”

    –The Keenan Family, Norway

  • Azores, Portugal: Three people stand outdoors near a rocky shoreline at sunset, smiling at the camera with a cloudy sky and water in the background.

    “The Elevate Destinations team did it again! They delivered an ideal experience from start to finish. Our Azores trip was full of magical moments for me, my husband, and our nephew. The local flavor, exquisite accommodations, and guides who combined fun and expertise created the perfect college graduation celebration for our nephew.”

    –Nancy Murphy, Portugal

  • Spain: Two people sit at a round table with drinks in an art gallery, surrounded by framed paintings on white walls.

    “Starting with our pick up at the airport in Barcelona, every detail was well thought out. Reacquainting myself with the things that matter most to me — the earth, animals, history and dance — was transformative.”

    –Sanja DeGarmo, Spain

  • Portugal: A person wearing a bike helmet looks toward a lighthouse and historic buildings by the sea.

    “Our granddaughter has had her eyes opened to the world outside her customary life. She will be forever changed in positive ways and seems so happy upon her return! Lana Byal and Emily Jump have been a true delight to work with. Honestly, I can't imagine having a better experience with travel helpers!! Thank you so much!!!!”

    –Robin Giddings, Portugal

  • Greece: A family of five poses and smiles together outdoors by the water at sunset. Two adults stand in the middle with three boys around them, all dressed in casual summer clothing. Mountains are visible in the background.

    “Dominique helped guide us through Greece seamlessly, making sure to create a stress free trip that was one we will remember for a lifetime. Our family spent days on the beautiful Mediterranean lounging or learning the deep history of the Greek gods. There was always something beautiful to do or see. Our trip was nothing short of magic.”

    –The Smith Family, Europe

  • Norway: Two people sit on a rocky mountain ledge with mugs, wearing outdoor clothing and caps. A thermos is placed beside them, and greenery and cliffs are visible in the background.

    “I just wanted to thank you again for arranging such an unforgettable trip. We had an absolute blast. Javier, our guide, was amazing. His depth of knowledge, relationships and hospitality were first class. We will certainly go back to the Arctic at some point… We are already excited to return to Africa next summer with Elevate!”

    –Kevin Samuelson, Norway

Your Questions Answered

What to know about Italy

When is the best time to visit Italy?

The best time to visit Italy is in the spring, from April to June, or in early fall, from September to October. During these months, you can expect pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lush landscapes.

What are the best things to do in Italy?

Italy offers an abundance of experiences for every traveler. In Tuscany, you can enjoy wine tasting in scenic vineyards, while Venice invites you to relax on a gondola ride through its romantic canals. Rome’s ancient ruins provide a glimpse into the footsteps of gladiators and the city’s rich history. Sardinia stands out for its unique Nuragic villages and award-winning beaches. Throughout Italy, you can wander historic city streets, savor world-class cuisine, and participate in hands-on activities such as farm visits and pasta-making classes with local hosts. For those interested in outdoor adventure, e-bike tours along the Costa Smeralda, hiking the Capo Figari trails, and boat trips through marine reserves offer memorable ways to experience Italy’s natural beauty.

What is the best way to travel around Italy?

The best way to travel around Italy is by using the country’s efficient high-speed trains for journeys between major cities, then utilizing private transfers to reach more remote or scenic areas such as Sardinia’s coastline or countryside villages.

What does a typical Italy itinerary look like?

A typical Italy itinerary combines city experiences, countryside adventures, and time to relax at luxurious hotels or coastal resorts. Journeys often begin with a cultural stay in Rome or Florence, followed by a scenic drive or train ride to Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast, and conclude with a relaxing stay on the island of Sardinia.

Which city has the best cuisine in Italy?

Italy is renowned for its cuisine, and each region features its own specialties. Bologna is known for its fresh pasta and flavorful sauces, Naples is famous for pizza, and Sardinia is well-known for its fresh farm-to-table cuisine. Exploring the food scene is a highlight of any trip, with unique dishes to discover throughout the country.

Why should I choose Elevate Destinations as my Italy travel guide?

When you choose Elevate Destinations as your Italy travel guide, you benefit from our expert knowledge, exclusive experiences, and personalized itineraries. Our team crafts each journey to match your interests, whether you are looking for authentic cultural experiences, luxury accommodations, or meaningful connections with local cuisine and communities. We handle every detail, so you can relax and enjoy your trip.

How many days should I spend in Italy?

The ideal length for a trip to Italy depends on interests, but spending at least 8 days is recommended to truly experience the country’s diverse landscapes, absorb its rich history, and savor its renowned cuisine.
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