Italy is the land of enchantment, food, and history. From its exquisite cuisine to its rich culture and picturesque coastal towns, Italy is famous for many things. But the one thing that stands out is its romantic allure, making it the perfect honeymoon destination.
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Is Italy a Good Place for a Honeymoon?
Italy is one of the most romantic countries in the world; hence it is one of the best honeymoon destinations.
This country of Romeo and Juliet has something for everyone. Hold hands as you walk through old cities and admire the history, art, museums, and architecture. You can visit the most iconic sites in Rome, the heart of Italy, including the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the famous Spanish steps.
And with so many gelaterias, bakeries, wineries, and restaurants, you’ll have plenty of flavors to try. Some of the most notable Italian wines include Prosecco, Chianti, and Pinot Grigio.
If the outdoors is your preference, Italy has lots to offer. Swin in Italy’s blue waters or take romantic walks along the lakes while exploring the fairytale towns. If you’re in the mood for adventure, hiking and sightseeing in the rolling hills of Tuscany should not be missed.
What Can You Do on a Honeymoon in Italy?
- Explore Italian cities: Italy has some of the best cities and towns. Go to Rome to see the most beautiful buildings, or visit Florence, the capital of Tuscany, which is home to delicious food and famous artists. Add Venice and Verona to your bucket list if you’re the romantic type. For a more local experience, stroll in the small towns as you travel.
- Lounge by the blue waters: Italy’s coastline and lakes have characteristic blue water perfect for boat riding and swimming. The Amalfi coast is the most iconic and is excellent for sailing as you explore coastal villages such as Positano.
- Hike and Walk: The Amalfi coast is one the best places to hike as you look down from the beautiful Villa Rufolo gardens in Ravello. Also, Cinque Terre, with its gorgeous villages and colorful buildings, has lovely hiking and walking trails perfect for evening walks.
- Enjoy Italian cuisine: Italy is famous for its delicacies, from the famous Italian wine, pizza, and seafood to local dishes such as risotto, gelato, and pasta. Additionally, you can take a couples cooking class and master a recipe or two.
- Go sightseeing: Tuscany is one of the best places to go sightseeing due to its rolling hills lined with vineyards. You can also visit cultural attractions like the Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio. Alternatively, explore the glorious islands of Sicily and Sardinia to enjoy a tranquil time by the beach.
- Ride gondolas in Venice: Cuddle up on a private gondola ride through the city of bridges. You’ll experience the city from a different perspective, and you may even be serenaded.
What Is the Best Time of the Year to Honeymoon in Italy?
The best time to visit Italy is during summer and spring (March to September) when the weather’s warm and the cities are bustling with life. But generally, Italy is a year-round tourist destination making it a perfect choice for newlyweds.
Summer runs from June through September, and most tourists flock to the country at this time. Therefore, you can expect crowds if your honeymoon falls within this time. And, of course, the prices increase.
Spring runs from March to May, and it’s less crowded than the summer months. Although the mornings and evenings can be chilly, you’ll have much more space.
How Much Does a Honeymoon in Italy Typically Cost?
A week-long honeymoon in Italy may cost between $3,000 and $6,000, not including flights.
But you may spend less or more depending on the following factors:
- Duration: The more days you stay, the more you spend.
- Time of visit: Summer is the peak season for tourists; hence it is more expensive.
- Food and accommodation: It will cost more if you plan to dine in fine restaurants and stay in high-end hotels.
- Activities: A trip to one city, such as Rome, could cost less than moving around the country.
How to Plan a Budget Honeymoon in Italy
The best thing about Italy is that you can still have a fantastic trip, even on a budget. Here are some tips to help you plan a budget honeymoon in Italy.
- Eat local: Italian dishes are delicious even by the roadside. Therefore, try the local restaurants and cafes to save a few dollars.
- Visit off-season: The cheapest time to visit Italy is in winter. However, autumn and spring (October-November and March-May) are more desirable. You’ll get cheaper deals on hotels and excursions.
- Book early: Early booking lets you identify the cheapest hotels and flights.
- Travel on weekdays: Flights are usually cheaper on weekdays than on weekends.
- Avoid accommodation in touristy cities: Instead, stay in smaller towns with more locals.
- Use the train instead of hiring a car/taxi: Although many people don’t think it is a romantic way to move around, it will save you money.
5 Best Cities to Honeymoon in Italy
1. Rome (The Eternal City)
Rome, Italy’s capital, is the country’s most visited tourist destination. This city’s rich history and magnificent architecture make it a perfect honeymoon getaway.
You can tour the Vatican and visit other famous sites such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Trevi Fountain. Afterward, walk through the neighborhoods and try local dishes from the plentiful restaurants. If you’re an art lover, the Borghese art gallery has some of the best collections.
Where to stay: Piazza Navona, Campo de Fiori Area, Trastevere
Suggested duration: 3-4 days
2. Florence
Imagine sipping the best wine and toasting to new beginnings after touring the world’s most extensive renaissance collection. Florence is home to the Uffizi gallery, where you’ll sample some of Botticelli and Michelangelo’s most famous artworks.
If you want some adventure, you can go hiking and sightseeing in Tuscany’s rolling hills lined with vineyards and sunflower fields. While you’re at it, take the chance to go wine tasting and try various Tuscan dishes. You can also explore cities like Siena and Pisa, interact with locals, and learn Italian.
Where to stay: Santo Spirito, San Frediano (Oltrarno)
Suggested duration: At least 4 days
3. Venice
No other city screams romance like Venice. The floating city is built over 100 islands interconnected by canals and beautiful bridges. You’ll enjoy the most romantic water rides without cars or roads here as you explore the towns. You can take the gondolas or walk the magnificent bridges.
Major attractions include the Grand Canal, lined with renaissance and Gothic palaces, and the Rialto bridge, which dates back to 1591. Alternatively, take a 45-minute ferry ride to Lido and enjoy this laidback beach town.
Where to stay: San Marco, San Polo, Cannariego
Duration: 2-3 days
4. Cinque Terre
The “five lands” is a place you don’t want to miss while on an Italian honeymoon. Cinque Terre is the place to go hiking by the seaside. It comprises five colorful towns bound by lush forests and vineyards with hiking and walking trails overlooking the Mediterranean sea.
If you prefer not to hike, you can also connect via ferry, train, or romantic boat ride from one town to another. Stop in Vernazza to enjoy the local seafood cuisine when you get hungry. If you visit during the hotter months, you can linger for a few days and swim in the sea at each village.
Where to stay: Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Monterosso beach
Suggested duration: 2-3 days
5. Milan
You can visit several historical sites in Milan, such as the Duomo church or Leonardo Da Vinci’s last supper at Santa Maria Delle Grazie.
Other places to tour include the Royal Palace, the Museo del Novecento, and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping center. Milan is also perfect for nightlife as you sample different delicacies and take memorable pictures at Piazza del Duomo.
An hour and a half outside of the city center, Lake Como is one of the most romantic destinations in Milan. Enjoy the pebble beaches around the lake’s exterior, or hire a private boat to view the landscapes from the lake’s center.
Where to stay: Near Duomo, Brera, Varrena (Lake como)
Suggested duration: 2-3 days
What Is the Best Way to Travel to Italy?
The best way to travel to Italy is by air.
Italy has multiple international airports, including Rome, Milan, Naples, Venice, and Bergamo. There’s an array of direct flights to these cities.
Traveling Within Italy
Italy is well interconnected, and you can use various means of transport depending on your budget and location. The most common include:
- Train: The train is the best way to move between cities. It’s fast and cheap.
- Taxis: Taxis are aplenty in Italy, but are more expensive.
- Gondolas and boats: The mode of transport in the waterways include boats and gondolas, especially in Venice.
What Type of Food Should You Try While Honeymooning in Italy?
Italians are famous for their culinary skills; whether you’re a foodie or not, you’ll enjoy their delicacies. Some of the foods you should try include:
- Italian Pizza
- Lasagne
- Pasta
- Risotto
- Seafood
- Polenta and cured meats
- Gelato and dolce
- Italian wine
Are There Any Cultural Experiences to Include in an Italian Honeymoon?
If art, architecture, and culture are your kind of fun, Italy has a lot to offer. Palermo, home to seven Unesco World Heritage sites, is great for history lovers. Alternatively, you can visit castles and palaces in Lake Garda, Lazio, and Liguria.
On the other hand, Rome and Florence are the best places to experience architecture with their numerous historical buildings and museums.
The Vatican is also an excellent place for a cultural experience, but you must plan for a guided tour. Here you can visit the Sistine Chapel and explore its Renaissance art.
What to Pack For a Honeymoon in Italy
- Travel adaptor
- Identification documents
- Reusable water bottle
- Power bank
- Walking shoes
- Enough clothing depending on the season (light clothes for summer and heavier for cold months)
- Cash in Euros
Is Italy Safe to Visit on a Honeymoon?
Italy is considered to be a very safe destination for travelers. It has a high police presence, dramatically minimizing the crime rate. However, like anywhere, petty crime is a possibility. Avoid incidences with a few precautions, including the following:
- Be wary of pick-pocketers, especially in tourist destinations and busy markets.
- Always ask the price beforehand (pictures, flowers, taxi tides).
- Carry minimal cash.
- Carry your valuables (money, phone) in the front pockets.
- Use ATMs in safe public spaces.
- Never leave your belongings unattended.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit Italy?
Americans don’t need a visa to visit Italy unless their honeymoon extends beyond 90 days.
Bonus Travel Tips
- The local and most prevalent language is Italian, but most people in tourist destinations speak English.
- You often need to pay for public restrooms. Carry coins.
- Most museums are closed on Mondays.
- 1 USD (currently) translates to 1.05 euros.