Cheap holidays to Italy: Last minute, all inclusive & package deals

Find cheap package holidays and all-inclusive trips to Italy

Italy attracts millions of visitors each year with its rich history, exquisite cuisine, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. But travelling to this popular destination doesn’t have to break the bank. With the right planning and a few savvy tricks, you can experience la dolce vita without emptying your wallet.

When is it cheapest to travel to Italy?

The timing of your trip plays a crucial role in determining the cost. Generally, it’s cheapest to travel to Italy during the low season, which falls during the winter months from November to March, excluding the Christmas holidays. During this period, you can find significantly cheaper flights and accommodation, especially in popular tourist cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice.

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are considered shoulder seasons. Prices are slightly higher than in winter but still lower than during the peak summer months. Moreover, the weather is often pleasant, and tourist crowds are less intense, making it a perfect time for many travellers to visit Italy.

The summer months of June to August are peak season in Italy, with high prices and large tourist crowds. If you must travel during this period, try to book as early as possible to get the best prices.

Tips for finding cheap trips to Italy

Finding the best deals often requires a bit of detective work and flexibility. Start by being open to different departure dates and airports. Sometimes it can be cheaper to fly to a nearby city and then take a train or bus to your final destination. Use price comparison websites to compare different options and be aware of hidden fees, especially with budget airlines.

Booking well in advance, especially for trips during peak season, can often result in lower prices. But also keep an eye out for last-minute deals, particularly if you’re flexible with your travel dates. Follow travel companies and airlines on social media and sign up for their newsletters to get information about special offers.

Consider package holidays, especially if you’re travelling to popular holiday resorts. Tour operators can often offer good prices on combined flight and hotel packages. But always compare with the price of booking flights and accommodation separately to ensure you’re really making a saving.

Destinations in Italy that are usually cheap to travel to

While major cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice tend to be more expensive, there are many other fantastic places in Italy that offer more affordable options. Consider visiting lesser-known cities like Bologna, famous for its food and architecture, or Naples, with its lively atmosphere and proximity to Pompeii.

For a beach experience, explore Puglia in the south, with its beautiful coastlines and charming villages, often at lower prices than the more famous resorts. Or why not discover the green region of Umbria, often called “Italy’s green heart”, which offers beautiful landscapes, medieval towns, and exquisite food at more reasonable prices than its neighbouring region, Tuscany.

Sicily and Sardinia can also offer affordable holiday options, especially if you travel outside the high season. Here you can enjoy beautiful beaches, rich history, and unique culture often at lower prices than on the mainland.

Accommodation options for those wanting to stay cheaply in Italy

When it comes to accommodation in Italy, there are many options for the budget-conscious traveller. Hostels are a popular choice for backpackers and solo travellers, with affordable bed spaces in shared rooms. For more private accommodation, consider renting a flat or a room through services like Airbnb, especially if you’re staying longer or travelling in a group.

In smaller towns and in the countryside, you can often find charming bed and breakfasts or agriturismi (farmhouses offering accommodation) at reasonable prices. These often offer a more personal experience and the opportunity to taste local specialities.

For the adventurous traveller, camping is an affordable option, especially during the summer months. Italy has many well-maintained campsites, often with good facilities and beautiful locations.

Save money on food and activities

Food is an essential part of the Italian experience, and fortunately, it doesn’t have to be expensive to eat well in Italy. Avoid restaurants in the most touristy areas and instead seek out local trattorias and osterias where the locals eat. Here you’ll often find authentic Italian food at reasonable prices.

For lunches, try local specialities like pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) or panini from local bakeries and delicatessens. Visit local markets to buy fresh ingredients if you have the opportunity to cook for yourself.

When it comes to sightseeing, take advantage of free options such as walking around historic city centres or visiting churches, which are often free to enter. Many museums offer free entry on certain days of the month, so check this in advance. In Rome, for example, you can visit the Pantheon free of charge.

Use public transport instead of taxis to save money on transportation. In many Italian cities, you can explore most sights on foot or by bike, which is not only economical but also gives you the opportunity to really experience the city’s atmosphere.

Travelling to Italy doesn’t have to be a luxury reserved for those with deep pockets. With smart planning, flexibility, and a willingness to explore beyond the most famous tourist traps, you can experience the best of Italy without it costing an arm and a leg. Whether you’re dreaming of strolling along the canals of Venice, exploring the ancient ruins of Rome, or enjoying a perfect espresso in a square in Florence, there are ways to make your Italian dream holiday a reality without exceeding your budget. Buon viaggio!