I'm planning a trip to Sardinia in May 2025, visiting historical sites and the deep countryside: what are the most authentic places?

Hi there, I’m wondering about spending a week in Basilicata in southern Italy in mid-to-late March. Initially, I was talking about Puglia, but I realize that in my imagination it was actually Puglia—but no, it’s really the timeless charm of Basilicata that I want to discover.

We’d be leaving from Nice. Do any of you have any tips? People who’ve been there recently—how about transport? Accommodations? A possible itinerary? Maybe fly into Naples and rent a car? Thanks for your feedback!

Have a great day,

Barbara

Hello,

We're planning to visit Lake Garda from August 10th to 24th with our 4-year-old daughter. We’d stay for 15 days. We’ll be arriving at Verona Airport. We don’t know the area at all. We were thinking of staying near Malcesine. Do you think we should plan for two accommodations to explore the lake? We’d prefer to avoid crowded spots, even though I suspect it might be tricky in August. If you have any great tips or recommendations within a budget of up to 150 € per night, that would be amazing! Do you think a car is essential, or can the lake be easily explored by ferry and bus? For a 15-day stay, would you recommend staying around Lake Garda or visiting one or more other lakes as well? We’re looking for activities suitable for our 4-year-old daughter.

Thanks so much for your help. I

Hello, I’m planning a trip for about ten people—seniors—to Friuli Venezia Giulia in September 2026.

Day 1 – We’ll likely arrive in Treviso and head first to UDINE for two nights. Day 2 – Morning in Udine, then an afternoon visit to Cividale del Friuli. Travel by local train. Day 3 – We’ll leave for a quick visit to Gorizia before heading to TRIESTE for one night. Day 4 – Visit Trieste and Miramare. At the end of the day, take the train to Cervignano, then a local bus to Grado. Stay in Grado for three nights. Day 5 – Explore central Grado and take a boat tour to the island of Barbana. Day 6 – Relaxation day in Grado (as requested by the participants). Day 7 – Visit Aquileia and possibly Palmanova.

Day 8 – Return to the airport or maybe a quick detour to Venice. For the three days in Grado and the surrounding area, I was thinking of hiring a small bus with a driver. It seems like it’d be simpler—what do you think? Any ideas or suggestions? Thanks for your feedback! MADAPOLAM

Hi there, I live in Quebec and I’m planning a trip to Italy. We’re thinking of visiting Rome, Florence, Venice, and Tuscany. Here are a few questions I haven’t been able to find clear answers to online. If anyone can help, I’d really appreciate it—thanks in advance!

- There are different City Passes for Rome. I’ve found the differences between them, but whenever I try to simulate a purchase, I’m always redirected to another site like Tiquet. Is there an official Tourism Office website for these?

- Is it easy to get around Tuscany by public transport, especially in the Chianti region?

- For guided tours (or not), which company do you prefer? Get Your Guide? Viator?

Looking forward to your recommendations—thanks again!

Hi everyone,

I’d love to get your thoughts on the following itinerary (late May). I like to take my time in ruins and museums, and beaches don’t interest me. I’ll be staying in hostels and using public transport. Do you see any major omissions or things that aren’t worth it? Thanks!

Day 1: Arrival in CATANIA Day 2: Catania – visit (fish market, cathedral, Biscarri Palace, etc.) Day 3: Mount Etna (day trip)

Day 4: Morning trip to TAORMINA, visit the town Day 5: Alcantara Gorge (day trip) + more time in Taormina

Day 6: Trip to SYRACUSE, visit Ortigia Day 7: Ortigia Day 8: NOTO (day trip) (or another Baroque town?) Day 9: Syracuse Archaeological Park + more time in Ortigia (or leave for Enna?)

Day 10: Transport via Enna? TO BE RESOLVED (long, 2 or 3 changes, limited accommodation in Enna...)

Day 11: AGRIGENTO: town and Scala dei Turchi (optional) Day 12: Valley of the Temples + archaeological museum

Day 13: Departure for TRAPANI (4h), afternoon: town (+ salt flats?) Day 14: Segesta (day trip) + town/Erice Day 15: Monte Cofano Nature Reserve (hike + summit) (day trip) Day 16: Zingaro Nature Park (coastal route out, ridge route back) (day trip)

Day 17: Departure for the AEGADIAN ISLANDS: Levanzo and Favignana (bike), overnight if possible Day 18: Egadi Islands

Day 19: Departure for PALERMO + first visits Day 20: The city Day 21: The city (Monreale?) Day 22: Options: - Capo Gallo hike (3.5h round trip) (via Mondello) - Cefalù (45 min by train) Day 23: Return flight

Hello, We (two adults) would like to visit this legendary place. Recommended time to go—I’m currently planning for early June. Road trip with my car starting from Belgium.

Day 1: Belgium - Innsbruck Day 2: Innsbruck - Lago di Braies: Visit Innsbruck, then head to Lago di Braies. Day 3: Lago di Braies - San Vito di Cadore: Visit Lago di Braies, then Lago di Landro and Misurina. Day 4: San Vito di Cadore: Tre Cime Day 5: San Vito di Cadore: Cinque Torri (5 Torri) Day 6: San Vito di Cadore: Lago di Sorapis Day 7: San Vito di Cadore - St. Maddalena: Lago di Dobbiaco - churches in the late afternoon Day 8: St. Maddalena - Alpe di Siusi Day 9: Alpe di Siusi: Compatsch Day 10: Alpe di Siusi: Seceda Day 11: Alpe di Siusi - Venice: Lago di Carezza Day 12: Venice Day 13: Venice Day 14: Return trip

Thanks, Louis

Hi, I'm looking for info on Tuscany with the idea of taking a family vacation at the end of August, but we're not into cities or crowds. We're more into wild nature, beaches, and hiking... I've heard about southern Tuscany—is it too urbanized? Where else should we look? Thanks so much

Hi there, What are the best things to do around Lakes Como, Garda, and Maggiore? Thanks

Hi everyone,

For the May public holidays, we’ve planned a 5-day trip to Puglia (which feels a bit short, but we couldn’t do otherwise—work commitments!).

We’ll be staying in Bari and plan to explore the surrounding villages on day trips or half-day trips. We’re struggling to decide which ones to visit.

What do you think is doable/reasonable in 5 days? Are some places more worth it than others?

Off the top of our heads, we were considering: Lecce, Ostuni, Alberobello, Brindisi, Matera, and Polignano a Mare... I think we won’t be able to do it all, so we’re thinking of cutting some destinations—but which ones?

Thanks in advance! Tyflore

Hi there, I’m heading to Florence soon, and since I want to visit as many museums as possible, I’m thinking of getting the Firenzecard (or Firenze Card). From what I’ve gathered online (and feel free to correct me if I’m wrong), with this card, you need to call a phone number to book a specific time slot for the Uffizi Gallery (+39 055 294883). Unfortunately, when I try calling this number from my mobile, I get a message saying the number “is no longer in service.” Has anyone else run into this? Could it be an issue with my phone plan, or has the number changed? Thanks in advance for your help. w.

Hi there, We’re planning a trip for October to visit Naples (6 nights) and the Amalfi Coast (5 nights). We’ve already got the historic center and the Lapis Museum in Naples, Pompeii, Herculaneum, Procida, Sorrento, and Ravello on our list. Any suggestions, addresses, or tips? Thanks for your help.

Hello, VoyageForum friends, and happy holidays! I’m planning a trip with my 19-year-old grandson to Milan for Easter Saturday, Sunday, and Monday in 2025. I’d love your insights on what we can visit in Milan that would interest both my grandson and me (I’m 75). Of course, I’m thinking of the must-sees, but not just those—cozy little restaurants, trendy neighborhoods, and anything else you’d recommend. I’m also looking for a comfortable hotel in the city center that isn’t too expensive!

I’m sure the VoyageForum community will help me uncover some hidden gems! Looking forward to your replies.

Hi, I found an Italian peer-to-peer car rental site that seems much cheaper than traditional car rentals in Italy. I just need to know before booking—has anyone had any direct experience with it?

Thanks in advance

Hi everyone,

The last time we saw the Dolomites—briefly—was back in 1982. Obviously, things have changed dramatically since then, as few Italian tourist spots are spared from crowds these days.

So, I have two questions:

1) When? Which period offers relatively good weather and moderate crowds? I was thinking October, but are the cable cars still running then? And what about accommodations?

2) Where? Which "must-see" spots should we skip? On the other hand, which places should we prioritize?

We’d like to do a few hikes—moderate in terms of time, distance, and elevation gain.

Thanks for your tips!

Hi there, I’m planning a trip for early July, departing from and returning to Cagliari. I had originally planned to visit these two areas: 1 - Chia/Teulada/Iglesias 2 - Sinis Peninsula (Tharros/Cabras) and Bosa

But after some thought, I’m wondering if the Gulf of Orosei (Cala Gonone/boat excursions) might be nicer than Chia/Teulada/Iglesias. I’d love to hear advice from travelers who’ve visited these regions of Sardinia.

We’re traveling as a family with two teens. Given the time of year, I don’t think we’ll do much hiking. We’re not big fans of crowded places.

Thanks! Marianne

Hi there,

I’ve found some great deals on flights to two destinations: Menorca in the Balearic Islands and Alghero in Sardinia.

The flights would take us from Bordeaux to Menorca on the evening of 9/07 and return to Bordeaux in the evening on 13/07. Or to Alghero very early on 10/07 (departure at 6 AM) and return in the mid-afternoon on 13/07. We love beautiful landscapes, the sea, snorkeling, walks (hiking), and the charm of villages. We want to spend some quality time as a couple without our kids and mix discovery with relaxation.

I can’t make up my mind. The transport costs are roughly the same when you factor in parking for Sardinia since the early departure means no public transport from home.

We’ve never been to Menorca, Sardinia, or Italy at all. I’ve been to Majorca, though. Menorca would be 4 nights and 4 days, while Alghero would be 3 nights and 2.5 days. Also, what itinerary would you recommend for Alghero and Menorca? Where to stay?

Thank you so much for your insightful traveler tips.

Have a great day, community!

Virginie

Hi, I’m planning my trip to La Spezia and I’m struggling to find nice places to visit besides the Cinque Terre and Portovenere. Budget: Mid-range NO hiking

Can you help me out?

Thanks!

Hello, We’re heading to Puglia at the end of May. We’re a senior couple. We arrive in Bari, where we’ve booked accommodation for 2 nights. We’ve rented a car. Day 1: Bari Day 2: Polignano a Mare – Monopoli Day 3: Ostuni – Brindisi Day 4: Lecce Day 5 & 6: Exploring the coast from Otranto to Santa Maria di Leuca Day 7 & 8: Gallipoli area Day 9 & 10: Matera

We’re considering renting a place near Lecce for 5 days and using it as a base to explore the region.

Thanks for your thoughts!

Best regards, Jean Michel

Hi everyone, My husband and I will be celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary. We’d love to return to Italy. We’re torn between Venice and Lake Como in Bellagio. Could you share your thoughts? We visited Venice exactly 10 years ago—we loved it, but I’m not sure if Lake Como is worth it even more. Is it a truly romantic and heart-stopping destination for this special occasion? Thanks for your advice! Sarah

Hi everyone,

I bought a Trenord train ticket online from Milano Centrale station to Como. While I’ve been to Italy several times and taken trains before, this is my first time traveling with this company.

The app says the QR code will be available when the ticket becomes valid, which is at the train’s departure time. But I was wondering if there are turnstiles like the ones in French stations, and I’d like more details on how to use tickets with Trenord. I tried looking for information but couldn’t find everything I needed.

Thanks in advance! 🙂

Hi there, I’d like to climb to the top of Vesuvius by taking the bus from Herculaneum. I’ve figured out how to get there, but what I can’t quite work out is whether I *have* to book on their website or if I can just show up without a reservation. Thanks!

Hi there,

I’m heading to Sicily for the 3rd time at the end of August. I’ve planned to spend 2 nights in the Aeolian Islands. I know you’ll say—rightly so—that it’s too short, but I can’t do any better. I’ve already been to Vulcano.

Which island is the most worth visiting for its stunning landscapes and views?

At this point, I was thinking of spending 1 night on Stromboli (and doing the ascent) and 1 night on Lipari, Salina, or Panarea.

Thanks for your tips, personal experiences, and have a great weekend!

Virginie

Planning a trip to Italy in October. I’d love to hear about your experiences. Thanks!

Hi! I’m an amateur photographer and I dream of photographing the Venice Carnival. I’m not really much of a partygoer, so I’m wondering how I’d feel at this event—I’m afraid I might feel a bit like an intruder... I know I’m overthinking it since hundreds of photographers go there. How did you feel about it? Thanks!

Hi there, I’ve been wanting to explore Sicily for a long time. From an all-inclusive hotel so I don’t have to change accommodation every night, and getting around by rental car. About ten days. Which spot would be best to stay so I can explore without excessive driving? What are the must-see sites, knowing that Mount Etna is already my top pick? What are the key things to know about renting and driving a car (laws, speed limits, requirements in certain cities, parking, etc.)?

Hi everyone, so happy VoyageForum is back up and running! I’m planning to explore Sardinia at the end of April and in May 2025. Could anyone tell me what the must-see spots are for this destination? I know there are tons of stunning beaches and, like everyone, I’m drawn to them. But I’m actually more interested in visits (towns, remarkable sites, curiosities) than the usual touristy spots. Looking forward to your enlightened tips!

Hi there, I’ll be in Rome from April 1st to 13th, 2026—it’s coming up fast! I’ve been searching online for tickets to visit the Borghese Gallery, but either there’s no availability or the tickets offered are ridiculously expensive. Could someone guide me to a website where I can book 2 skip-the-line tickets (I’ve heard you have to reserve in advance online)?

Thanks in advance for the info!

Simon

Hi there, Does anyone know if there are any works in progress at Torcello, and if so, what type of works and how long they’re expected to last? Thanks in advance

Hi there,

I’m heading to Rome soon and wanted to book my tickets for the Colosseum.

I found the official site, but I don’t understand when it’s possible to make a reservation.

Apparently, it’s 30 days in advance for the underground tour since everything is already booked up for the next 30 days...

But what about the Colosseum + Arena visit? The site shows tickets for the next 7 days, but nothing after that. Are tickets released just a week in advance for this combo, not 30 days?

Thanks for any clarification! !