Italy is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, renowned throughout the world for its incredible food, wine, culture, architecture, fashion and stunning landscapes. With so many amazing cities and regions in one country and dozens of beautiful islands there are many reasons why Italy is considered to be one of the most romantic destinations in the world and in fact in 2018, Italy has been one of the most visited countries in the world, drawing over 33 million visitors.
To say thing are getting busy over here would be an understatement and as a country we are grateful for having so many visitors to Italy, though for those planning groups at the last minute, finding space in half-decent hotels or even any space at all, even six-months out is becoming problematic particularly in the most popular areas here in Italy like Florence, Venice, Rome, the Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Taromina and Capri.
No doubt about it, all of these destinations are all wonderful and beautiful, but make not mistake about it, they are flooded with visitors and make sure to refer to our recent article about “Italy’s Biggest Tourist Traps” and how to avoid them:
Particularly for groups, which we consider to be more than 6 people traveling together, space can get tight here in Italy, even 1 year out and so if you are thinking about bringing a group, it really is best to start planning well in advance and start communication with us or your travel professional who can assist you with the most up-to-date information.
Unfortunately a lot of guide books right now are out of date and have not been updated and in many instances are not even relevant for groups.
Here are a few key important and key recommendations we have if you are taking a group to Italy, even if you do not book through us:
I) Book well in advance if you are traveling with a group and if you are considering group travel of any kind, which includes more than 4 participants in any given party, make sure you plan well in advance.
2) Wanting to see the art cities like Florence, Venice and Rome? Have a careful look at our previous articles relating to travel in Italy and consider traveling to Italy in the winter months or shoulder seasons if you are traveling with a group and make sure you understand what the high seasons are in Italy, since they might be quite surprising!
Have a look at our article as to why Italy makes such a great winter destination:
3) Consider staying outside of the major art cities and traveling in for day trips:
For example: Wanting to visit Florence? Consider Fiesole, Imprunetta or great towns and cities just outside of Florence.
4) In so far as the Amalfi Coast is concerned, don’t go for the big names like Positano or Sorrento. There are many smaller towns around these more well-known areas that have incredible venues at a much lower cost.
5) Consider organizing your group with a common subject in mind. Subjects can include: Food and Wine, Art and Sculpture, Engineering an Architecture, Romance and Love, Philosophy, Fun and Nightlife – or a combination of all.
The more you understand the various individuals of your trip, the better of you and your group will be planning activities.
We really recommend all groups coming to Italy to consider group transportation from place to place as a possibility for sightseeing and we encourage you to read our article about how you can use transfers as sightseeing activities here:
Save Money & Use Private Transfers as Opportunities for Incredible Experiences & Sightseeing
