Multi-Centre Holidays in Italy

Multi-centre holidays in Italy can feel like you’re getting two holidays in one! Italy is wonderfully diverse, and basing yourself in two different regions in one trip is a brilliant way to see more of this fabulous country.

As a bucket-list destination, it can feel almost impossible to choose between regions in Italy. From the staggering natural beauty of the Italian Lakes to the history-laden cities of Rome and Florence or the white sand beaches of Puglia and Sicily – we can help you make this decision a little easier. By matching regions that offer variety and ease of travel, we have come up with this guide to multi-centre holidays in Italy. As a starting point, we’ve created three detailed options, covering six different regions: the Italian Lakes, Puglia, Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, Umbria and Sicily.

Multi-Centre Holiday in Italy Option 1: The Italian Lakes and Puglia 

Base 1: Lake Maggiore

As a firm favourite of ours for any holiday, the Italian Lakes are a great place to begin your multi-centre holiday in Italy. Even though each of the lakes has it’s own unique draw, we have to admit that we love them all!

For convenience, (and because it probably is our favourite!) we recommend making Lake Maggiore your first base. From there, you can easily reach Lake Orta and Lake Como too. Although Maggiore is a very popular tourist destination, we love how it has retained a wonderfully authentic Italian feel. Yet, at the same time, it can offer you everything you’d like as a tourist.

What to do in the Italian Lakes

One of our favourite activities is to take a boat trip around the Bromean Islands. By booking this advance here you can enjoy a whole day hop-on hop-off experience, leaving you to choose where you fancy a swim or perhaps more importantly where to stop for lunch. Make sure you sample some local speciality cheeses. Some that absolutely must be tried include the famous Formaggio di Bettelmatt and Toma del Mottarone. The local honey is a wonderful accompaniment.

In less than 30 minutes, you can hop from Lake Maggiore over to Lake Orta. Another reason why using the Lake Maggiore as a base for a multi-centre holiday in Italy is such a good idea. Although Lake Orta is breathtakingly beautiful, it is still a little bit of a secret destination in the lakes. Here you’ll find plenty of Italians enjoying long lazy days on the lake’s numerous beaches or wandering the well-preserved ancient alleys of Orta San Giulio. Click here to read our guide to Lake Orta.

Finally, a trip to the Italian Lakes would not be complete without a visit to Lake Como. We can assure you, Italy’s postcard lake will not disappoint! The lakeside towns ooze opulence and it’s not unusual to see a famous face whizzing by on their boat or sipping a apertivo as the sun goes down.

Where to stay in the Italian Lakes

For Families: Villa Ranco

Directly on the shores of Lake Maggiore, with stunning views across the lake. This contemporary lakeside villa has 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a welcoming living and dining area. Additionally, the terrace provides a wonderful outside space for al fresco dining and the garden slopes down giving direct access to the beach.

For Car-Free Couples: Apartment Manzoni

This 18th century apartment takes inspiration from the years the owner spent living in India, South America and the Middle East. It is a newly renovated oasis of calm on the oldest street in Lesa, Lake Maggiore. What’s more, everything has been recently installed and you’ll find fresh, white linens and a designer Italian kitchen waiting for you.

These are just a snapshot of our villas and apartments in the Italian Lakes for your multi-centre holiday in Italy. For more inspiration, visit bookingsforyou.com to see them all.

Base 2: Puglia

Puglia is a stunning region, most famous for its hobbit-like trulli, turquoise seas, and beautiful rural landscapes. Making up more than 10% of Italy’s total coast – 540 miles – it is the perfect Italian beach holiday destination. Quite the contrast from your time amongst the lakes and mountains in the north! That said, there is also plenty to enjoy away from the beach. Olive groves stretch for miles, interrupted only by stunning hilltop towns, where ancient Italian culture breathes from polished white walls and winding alleys. 

What to do in Puglia

While of course we love all of Puglia, a highlight for us is Ostuni or the ‘White City’ as it’s known. Perched above the azure waters synonymous with this region, Ostuni is a real gem. There is plenty to keep you busy here too. Why not take a walking tour, a cooking class or have dinner with a local? Away from the city, experience the true taste of Puglia with a tour of a local vineyard (book here) or pasta-making class? (book here).

Back at the beach, there are numerous boat tours and snorkeling experiences to choose from. In order to avoid disappointment, we advise booking these in advance with our partners Get Your Guide or Viator. And, to learn more about Puglia’s best beaches click here.

Where to stay in Puglia

For Families: Trulli Nicola

A newly constructed villa, furnished in a modern contemporary style and equipped to a high standard. The outside space is stunning. In addition to perfectly presented flower beds lining the pool area, there are mature olive trees that are beatifully lit at night. For al fresco dining, a stone table and benches are positioned under a large covered pergola. A special touch is that guests are welcome to help themselves to the fresh seasonal produce in the garden’s vegetable patch. To top it off, all of this is within walking distance of the outskirts of Ostuni.

For Couples: Ostuni B&B

Tucked inside the iconic white walls of Ostuni’s old town, right in the heart of the city, locations don’t get any better than this! Each of the eight rooms has been beautifully styled and provides the most relaxing and comfortable place from which to explore this unique city. What’s more, our B&B boasts two large communal outdoor seating areas along with a covered terrace to relax on. Additionally, on the upper terrace, you will find a plunge pool with jacuzzi. By night, the property is illuminated with carefully considered lighting choices. These highlight the juxtaposition of the traditional stone-wall architecture and the contemporary fixtures and fittings. All of which make this property such a pleasure to stay in.

Multi-Centre Holidays in Italy: How to get from the Italian Lakes to Puglia 

By Air

Even though Italy is a fairly small country, there are still an abundance of internal flights available. The fight time between Milan and Bari is 1hr 30min. While this is the fastest option to travel between the Italian Lakes and Puglia for your multi-centre holiday in Italy, remember to also factor in travel time to the airport and check-in time. That said, it will still certainly be the most time-efficient way to make this journey. For quick and easy transfers to and from the airport, we recommend using a transfer service such as Holiday Taxis or Kiwitaxi. If you’re travelling as a family or group of friends, a taxi can often be the most cost-effective option too.

By Rail 

If you’re keen to see as much of Italy as possible, then travelling by train is the best option. Direct trains run from Milan Centrale to Bari Centrale and take about 7hr 30min. While this is quite a long journey, don’t be put off! Italian trains are somewhat of a pleasure. Some journeys require a change at Rome Termini. Therefore you have the opportunity to enjoy a mini city break in Rome on your way. You can read all about the practicalities of train travel in Italy here. And how to make the most of 48hrs in Rome here.

By Car

While this is a very long journey,  if you’re ready to embrace a road trip, this is a magnificent one! Highlights include Bologna and the stunning Emilia Romagna countryside, followed by a journey through Le Marche. Quite possibly Italy’s most undiscovered region, Le Marche is punctuated with ancient castles atop lush green hills and rugged rocky landscapes. Moreover, this journey will take you along the coast and through Pessaro, Italy’s 2024 capital of culture. The total journey time is about 10 hours. However, if you choose this option, don’t rush the journey. Planning some interesting stops en route will make your muti-centre holiday in Italy even more of an adventure.

Multi-Centre Holidays in Italy Option 2: Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast 

Base 1: Tuscany

As perhaps the number one bucket-list destination in Italy, Tuscany never disappoints. From the lush rolling hills of the Val D’orcia to the ancient hilltop towns of San Gimignano and Cortona. Or the world-famous cities of Florence, Lucca, and Pisa to the stunning beaches of Elba Island – Tuscany is a marvelous option for a multi-center holiday in Italy.

Choosing exactly which area to stay in in Tuscany, can be quite a challenge! It’s worth planning a brief itinerary of what you absolutely can’t miss and work out accommodation that works well for these activities. You can see our recommended Tuscany itinerary here

What to do in Tuscany

Although all the Tuscan cities have their unique qualities, we still find it difficult to imagine a trip to Tuscany without a trip to Florence. As the region’s capital, and with such rich cultural history Florence is a popular year-round destination. As a result, it can get quite busy! However, please don’t let this put you off, it simply means you need to plan your trip to avoid spending precious holiday hours in queues and long lines for attractions. Booking skip-the-line tickets with either Get Your Guide (book here) or Viator (book here) to the Accademia or Uffizi Gallery is the best way to enjoy Florence, leaving you with plenty of time to wander the city and soak up its exquisite atmosphere.

Beyond Florence, Tuscany’s rolling green hills and endless vine-filled fields stretch for as far as the eye can see. As I’m sure you’d expect, taking a tour of a Tuscan vineyard is a wonderful way to get to know a little about the region’s history. While wine is central to Tuscany’s fame, we mustn’t forget this is Italy so food will always also be on the stage! By enjoying a cooking class with a local, you can have a wonderfully authentic experience and at the same time, learn some culinary skills to take a piece of Italy home with you. Book both of these experiences here with our partner Get Your Guide.

Where to Stay in Tuscany

For Countryside Luxury: Villa Paolo

Set within an estate home to a 200-tree olive grove, with a shared heated infinity swimming pool – guests enjoy the best of both worlds here: the privacy and space of a self-catering villa with the support and services of a hotel concierge. Inside, the owners have renovated these villas beautifully. The focus has been very much on using only natural, local materials including linen, stone and wood. The result is an elegant, calm and tranquil space where you can relax and unwind on your Tuscany holiday.

For a City Break: Garden Apartment Florence

A beautiful luxury Florence apartment that has been recently renovated to create an elegant place to stay in the heart of the city. Located in the Oltrarno district of Florence, this is one of nine apartments in this historic building. Guests can enjoy complete privacy when staying here but, for those who do need assistance, staff are on hand 24 hours a day at a nearby hotel.

For more accommodation options in Tuscany, visit Bookingsforyou.com or contact us. We are always happy to help you plan your multi-centre holiday in Italy.

Base 2: The Amalfi Coast

When you first lay eyes on the Amalfi Coast, you quickly realise what all the hype is about. Pastel villages dot rugged cliffs, that seem to tumble into the turquoise water below. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, this stunning corner of the Mediterranean is protected to preserve the future of its natural beauty.

What to do on the Amalfi Coast

This base on your multi-centre holiday in Italy, must involve some serious relaxation to take in the mesmerising colours that characterise the Amalfi Coast. However, making some plans to maximise your time here is also a good idea. If you’ve packed your hiking shoes, then joining a guided walking tour of The Path of Gods (Santiero Degi Dei) should be top of your to-do list. Without hesitation, this is the ultimate way to experience this Mediteranean paradise. Wind your way along ancient paths, discover the remains of ancient farmhouses and meet local shepherds along what is considered the most beautiful hiking trail in the world. Book your tour in advance here.

Another option is to take a sunset boat tour. Believe us, this will certainly be one of the most Instagramable moments of your mulit-centre holiday in Italy! As the sun goes down, the magical colours of the cliffs begin to glow, creating the most stunning backdrop. Book your boat tour in advance here.

A final mention goes to Sorrento. While it is technically just outside of the 34 mile stretch of coastline officially marked as the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento’s beauty allows it to sneak in. Characterised by stunning vistas and lemon trees Sorrento has so much to offer to offer as a destination itself. However, if you’re staying in Sorrento, we think it’d be almost rude not to also make a trip over to Capri. Book a tour in advance here, which also includes a trip to the Blue Grotto.

To read more about the beautiful Amalfi Coast, find our full guide here.

Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast

For a Car-Free Family: Villa Sorrento

A truly stunning, elegantly furnished, five-bedroom villa, situated right in the heart of Sorrento. Within walking distance of plenty of wonderful shops and restaurants. The beach and port are also just a short walk away. The house has a wonderful private garden and enjoys beautiful sea views.

For Stunning Amalfi Coast Views: Villa Maria

Situated in Nerano, on one of the most beautiful stretches of this coastline, Villa Maria is all about the view! The nearest restaurant is just 200 metres away. It’s also just a 600 metre walk from Recommone Beach and just over a kilometre from the pebbled main Marina del Cantone beach where you’ll find what we think is the best fish restaurant in the area.

Multi-Centre Holidays in Italy: How to get from Tuscany to the  Amalfi Coast

By Train

As with most multi-centre holidays in Italy, the train is a wonderful way to travel. The journey to Sorrento by train from Florence takes around 4hr 30min. This includes a change in Naples. Of course, you can opt to spend a night in Naples. Naples is a bustling port city famous for being the home of pizza. In fact, even if you decide against spending a night here, be sure to make time between trains for a pizza lunch – you won’t regret it!

By Car

This option takes around 5hr 30min and the most direct route takes you near enough to Rome to reasonably justify a stop in the capital. Our advice would be to book a hotel for the night and enjoy an evening taking in the sights and sounds of one of Europe’s most visited cities. Alternatively, opt for the less direct route and follow the coast road from Tuscany down into Lazio and Camagnia. As this route takes you along the less travelled tourist route, you can have some very authentic experiences. This flexibility is why we love multi-centre holidays in Italy so much.

Multi-Centre Holiday in Italy Option 3: Umbria and Sicily

Base 1: Umbria

The contrast between these two regions is quite remarkable. Best known as the ‘Green Heart’ of Italy, Umbria is steeped in history and bursting with beauty. Luscious hills and mountains meet ancient hilltop towns, each with its own unique draw.

What to do in Umbria

A string of stunning hilltop towns form the heart of Umbria. Its capital, Perugia is a bustling hub, most famous for its love of chocolate! So great is this love that Perugia hosts not one but TWO chocolate festivals each year. Held in both March and October, Eurochoclate is the ultimate in everything chocolatey. If you choose to take your multi-centre holiday in Italy in either of these months, get ready to indulge!

Further south, and a real highlight for us, you’ll find Spello. A stunning splash of colour amongst Italy’s green country. To live in Spello is to commit to decorating gardens, steps, facades and windowsills with year-round floral delights. What’s more, we can assure you that its residents take this commitment very seriously! June sees the highlight of the floral festivities when the world-famous Infiorarta takes place. Read all about Spello and Infiorarta here.

While in Umbria, one of our favourite things to do is eat! To be more precise we also like to cook, using deliciously fresh local ingredients. Food will certainly form a big part of your multi-centre holiday in Italy and Umbria may well be the star of the show! Our advice is to join a  local and enjoy a cooking class in their home. If you are looking for an authentic Italian family experience, then this is the way to do it. Book your cooking experience in advance here. Or if you don’t fancy doing the cooking, immerse yourself in a private dining experience with an Italian family. You’ll enjoy an exclusive show of cooking and taste authentic recipes from Italy, treasured in family cookbooks passed down by real Italian Mammas. Book this experience here.

Where to Stay in Umbria

For Family Luxury: Villa Buonanotte Barbanera

An absolutely stunning, unique, luxury villa with pool in the beautiful town of Spello. Created in part from a 14th century church, the villa is nestled against the town walls and enjoys incredible views of the valley. Its central location within the town means guests can walk to a number of restaurants. Yet its peaceful location and panoramic views means that it has the feel of being in the middle of the countryside.

For Couples: The Courtyard

A super stylish luxury apartment, perfect for a couple or a small family. The interior is immaculately presented and the wonderful use of colour creates a charming, welcoming atmosphere. We love the private courtyard terrace which again enjoys views over the Umbrian hills – a perfect spot to enjoy an aperitivo before sampling the food at one of Spello’s excellent restaurants.

Base 2: Sicily

Welcome to Sicily! After your time spent amongst the rolling hills of Umbria, we know you’ll love the contrast that Sicily offers: a treasure trove of ancient ruins, stunning coastlines, and vibrant local traditions. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventurer, Sicily always delivers.

What to do in Sicily

History

Where to start? Sicily has so much to offer. If you love history, Sicily is sure to be on your bucket list. There are a staggering 7 UNESCO World Heritage sites across the Island. So many you’ll almost be tripping over them!

To start, take a journey back to Sicily’s ancient past with a visit to the Valley of the Temples. Wonderfully preserved, this Archaeological Park is home to 12 temples and also featured in the latest Indiana Jones film! More highlights include the ancient Greek theatres of Syracuse and Taormina. Prepare to be stunned by the magnitude of the sites and even more so by the stories they have played in the rich history of the island.

To get the most out of these experiences we highly recommend using a local guide. Our partners at Get Your Guide and Viator offer an unrivaled service and also offer ‘skip the line’ options so you don’t have to spend your holiday in a queue!

The Coast

Although perhaps most famous for its history, Sicily’s beaches are incredible too. Relax on the pristine Aeolian Islands, or explore the breathtaking Zingaro Nature Reserve with its hidden coves and crystal-clear waters. We think one of the best ways to experience Sicily’s 180km coastline is by boat. Many tours and experiences are available, from dolphin spotting excursions to romantic sunset cruises. Click here to see what’s on offer.

Adventure

Finally, can we talk about Sicily without mentioning Europe’s highest and most active volcano? A trip to Mount Etna must make it onto your Sicily to-do list. Even if you don’t fancy the hike, you can still experience Etna with this guided 4X4 Jeep tour. At over 2,000 metres you can marvel at eerie volcanic landscapes, discover lava flows and take in the views over the Caldera del Valle del Bove. For the more adventurous, there are numerous organised hikes to the summit. From sunset tours to treks with tastings (only in Italy!), click here to see what’s on offer.