Italy is a country synonymous with art, history, and of course, food. But beyond the well-trodden sights, Italy offers a wealth of unique tours that deepen your connection with its culture and landscape. We’ve narrowed down the top 15, highlighting experiences that stand out for their authenticity, scenery, and memorable moments. Whether you’re a foodie eager to learn pasta secrets, an adventurer craving a sailing trip, or a culture seeker ready to explore royal palaces, Italy’s tour scene has a lot to offer.
One of our favorites is the Milan: Pizza or Pasta and Gelato-Making Class with Wine. It’s a fun, hands-on way to enjoy Italy’s culinary traditions in the heart of Milan, and reviews give it a 4.9/5 rating. For a scenic escape, the La Maddalena Arcipelago sailing tour offers a full day exploring stunning islands with swimming, lunch, and spectacular views. For those interested in authentic local flavors, the Truffle Hunting in the Langhe with Bruno and his dog has a 4.9/5 rating and immerses you in Italy’s prized culinary treasure.
Below, we present a well-rounded list of the best tours in Italy, each with distinct appeal—whether it’s culinary, cultural, or outdoor adventure—and all carefully selected for their quality, uniqueness, and value.
1. Milan: Pizza or Pasta and Gelato-Making Class with Wine
At number 1, this interactive cooking class in Milan combines Italy’s favorite foods—pizza or pasta—with the chance to churn your own gelato. Spanning three hours, you get to learn from a professional chef, discovering secrets behind Italy’s beloved dishes. The class is particularly popular among foodies and families, earning a 4.9/5 rating from over 840 reviews. The fun is in the hands-on experience, and everyone gets to enjoy their culinary creations paired with local wine. The two options—pasta or pizza—allow you to customize your experience.
What makes this tour special is its casual, friendly atmosphere. You don’t just watch someone cook; you participate, learn, and then savor your own homemade pizza, pasta, or gelato. It’s a perfect choice for travelers wanting a relaxed, delicious introduction to Italian cuisine without breaking the bank. Bottom line: This class offers excellent value, especially for families or solo travelers eager to bring an authentic taste of Italy home.
2. Ostuni: Masseria tour among thousand-year-old olive trees with oil tasting
Number 2 on our list takes you to Puglia’s heart, where an olive oil farm tour combines history, nature, and flavor in 1.5 hours. Explore the thousand-year-old olive groves at Masseria Rienzo, and visit both a historic underground oil mill and a modern, high-tech facility. The guided tasting of extra virgin olive oil is a highlight, offering a tangible sense of how Italy’s most iconic ingredient is produced.
This experience is both educational and sensory-rich, perfect for travelers interested in authentic local products. The reviews speak to its intimacy and quality, with a 4.8/5 rating from 248 reviews. The tour’s brevity makes it suitable for a half-day outing, and the opportunity to witness a blend of tradition and innovation makes it stand out. Bottom line: Ideal for food lovers and those curious about Italy’s age-old olive oil tradition, offering deep insight into Puglia’s landscape.
3. Pesto Experience, Cooking Classes, Wine Tasting in Sestri Levante
Ranking third, this Ligurian culinary experience is a perfect mix of hands-on cooking and tasting. Using a mortar, you’ll produce Genoese pesto, learning about its history and secrets, then enjoy tasting your creations. The class is private, with a personal chef guiding you through Liguria’s culinary traditions. Plus, a glass of Vinaccieri wine kicks off the experience, making it lively from the start. The tour also includes making Ligurian potato gnocchi, focaccia, and pane.
Rated 5.0/5 from 119 reviews, it’s praised for its fun, patience, and encouragement. Guests especially love the interactive nature and the opportunity to take home your pesto in a special container. This is suited for foodies wanting an intimate, authentic cooking experience. Bottom line: An excellent value at just over $58 per person, offering a genuine taste of Ligurian cuisine.
4. La Maddalena Arcipelago: Sailing boat tour with lunch
Number 4 offers a full-day sailing adventure in Sardinia’s La Maddalena Archipelago, rated 5/5 by 99 reviewers. Hop aboard a sailing yacht to explore three stunning islands—Santa Maria, Budelli, and Spargi. Swimming in turquoise waters, discovering hidden beaches, and enjoying a delicious onboard lunch make this trip memorable. The highlight is the chance to see Spiaggia Rosa, one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
The tour includes optional snorkeling, walking, and relaxing on deck while soaking in scenic views. The crew’s professionalism and friendliness are often mentioned as key benefits. With a duration of 6 hours, it’s perfect for those craving sea, sun, and a touch of adventure. Bottom line: This tour offers excellent value for an all-day experience with top-notch scenery and inclusions.
5. Cagliari: Sunset Boat Tour with Aperitif and Prosecco
Number 5 features a relaxing 3-hour sunset boat tour off Sardinia’s coast. Starting from Lungomare New York, you’ll sail in a dinghy to watch the last evening light over Poetto Beach. Swimmers can enjoy the crystal-clear waters, and a glass of Prosecco with snacks makes the experience special. The gentle pace and music create a friendly, laid-back atmosphere.
Rated 4.8/5 by 115 reviewers, the highlight is the stunning sunset views and the opportunity to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The tour is suitable for those seeking a peaceful, scenic escape with easy swimming and drinks. The limited group size makes it intimate. Bottom line: Ideal for couples or anyone looking to enjoy Sardinia’s coastline in a relaxed setting.
6. Tour of the islands of the archipelago with lunch and drinks
Ranking sixth, this 7-hour sailing trip in Sardinia visits multiple islands, including Cala Santa Maria, Budelli, and Spargi. It combines sightseeing, swimming, snorkeling, and dolphin watching, with lunch, drinks, and snacks included. The crew’s professionalism and passion are frequently noted, and the itinerary offers a good balance of activity and relaxation.
Guests love the picturesque beaches and the chance to explore multiple spots aboard a comfortable boat. The included lunch and drinks add value, especially given the length of the tour. It’s suitable for travelers who want a full day on the water with plenty of swimming and sightseeing options. Bottom line: A great choice for active families or groups wanting a comprehensive day out on Sardinian waters.
7. Vicoforte: Ascend the Dome of the Santuario
Number 7 takes you to Piedmont to climb the world’s largest elliptical dome. For around $20, you’ll wear a helmet and harness to ascend 60 meters and enjoy breathtaking views. The experience is physically accessible for most, but not suitable for children under 14. The ascent is both exciting and awe-inspiring, perfect for those interested in architecture or panoramic vistas.
Rated 5/5, visitors praise the daring climb and the stunning perspective from above. It’s a short but memorable tour that offers a different angle on Italy’s religious and architectural heritage. Bottom line: Best suited for active travelers craving a physical challenge and panoramic reward.
8. Turin: Stupinigi Royal Hunting Lodge Entry Ticket
Number 8 features a visit to the UNESCO-listed Stupinigi Lodge. For about $16, you get entry and an audioguide to explore this late-Baroque gem. The lodge’s ornate decor, including the Royal Apartments and Central Hall, showcase the grandeur of 18th-century architecture. Visitors find it fascinating to learn about Napoleon and Queen Margherita’s stay here.
Rated 4.5/5, the experience is appreciated for its informative audio guide and stunning decor. While some note the service could be better, the site itself is an architectural highlight. It’s suited for travelers interested in royal history and ornate designs. Bottom line: A worthwhile visit for architecture lovers, especially those interested in royal retreats.
9. Florence: Horseback Riding Tour with Wine Tasting & Transfer
Number 9 offers a horseback riding excursion in Tuscany combined with a visit to a wine estate. The three-hour tour includes riding through olive groves and vineyards, followed by a wine tasting. Round-trip transport from Florence makes it convenient, and the experience is ideal for those seeking relaxation outside the city.
Rated 5/5, riders praise the scenic ride and the knowledgeable guide. The wine tasting adds a nice touch, making it a full sensory experience. Suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, as long as you’re comfortable in the saddle. Bottom line: Perfect for wine lovers who want to combine nature and culture in Tuscany.
10. Langhe: Truffle Hunt with Local Trifulau and Dog
At number 10, explore Piedmont’s truffle-rich hills with Bruno and his dog, rated 4.8/5. This two-hour hunt takes you into the woods to find fresh truffles, with expert guidance on the process and importance of this delicacy. You’ll learn about how truffles grow and their culinary significance while enjoying a hands-on experience.
The tour is praised for its authenticity and the chance to live out a true truffle hunter’s day. It’s ideal for foodies and those interested in local traditions. The intimate group size and direct interaction with a real trifulau make this tour stand out. Bottom line: A top choice for culinary adventurers wanting to see Italy’s truffle world firsthand.
11. Tavolara: Sunset Aperitif Tour with Drinks and local snacks
Number 11 offers a scenic sunset sailing around Tavolara Island, rated 5/5. Starting from Porto San Paolo, the tour features Prosecco and local snacks, plus swimming and marine life viewing. As you cruise, the cliffs and bays provide perfect backdrops for photos and relaxing moments.
The gentle navigation and friendly atmosphere make it suitable for all ages. The 3.5-hour duration allows ample time to unwind and enjoy Sardinia’s natural beauty. This tour is especially appealing for couples or small groups seeking a mellow, scenic experience. Bottom line: Ideal for sunset lovers and anyone wanting a peaceful cruise with good drinks.
12. Truffle Hunting with Food Tasting
Ranking twelfth, this 3.5-hour truffle hunting tour in Molise involves exploring incontaminate woods with a professional truffle hunter and his dog. After the walk, you’ll visit a processing lab and enjoy a tasting of dishes made with fresh truffles paired with local wines.
Rated 5/5, this experience offers a full immersion into Italy’s treasured culinary ingredient. It’s perfect for foodies wanting a hands-on, authentic adventure. The tour’s length and focus on tasting make it appealing for those with limited time but a strong interest in gourmet ingredients. Bottom line: A fantastic option for culinary curiosity and nature lovers alike.
13. Palmarola: Boat tour with lunch on board
Number 13 features a 6-hour boat trip from Ponza to Palmarola, rated 4.9/5. The cruise includes multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing, with a relaxing onboard lunch. The scenery includes dramatic cliffs and hidden coves, making it perfect for those craving a day on the water.
The itinerary balances activity and downtime, with opportunities for photos and underwater exploration. The boat’s comfort and excellent reviews make it a top choice for families or groups seeking a leisurely day at sea. Bottom line: A superb way to see one of Italy’s most scenic islands from the water.
14. E-bike in Portofino promontory around the traditional fishing villages
Number 14 offers a 6-hour e-bike tour exploring Portofino’s coastline, rated 5/5. This adventure takes you through charming villages like Camogli and Santa Margherita Ligure, with panoramic views over the Gulf of Paradise. The route includes visits to clifftop churches, castles, and countryside lunch stops (own expense).
The ride is described as “very challenging” but rewarding, with knowledgeable guides sharing stories along the way. It’s suited for active travelers looking for a scenic, physically engaging experience. Bottom line: Perfect for those with a decent fitness level wanting to combine culture, nature, and a workout.
15. Truffle hunting in the Langhe – Truffle hunting with a real truffle hunter
Finally, number 15 offers a 2-hour truffle hunt with Bruno, rated 4.9/5. This tour takes you into the UNESCO hills of Langhe, where an expert truffle hunter and his dog search for fresh truffles. You’ll learn about the habitat and harvesting process, then enjoy a tasting of dishes featuring the truffles you’ve helped find.
This experience is great for food lovers who want an authentic, hands-on look at Italy’s prized delicacy. The small group setting and the chance to connect directly with a truffle expert make it particularly memorable. Bottom line: A top-tier choice for culinary travelers wanting a true taste of Italy.
How to Choose Your Perfect Italian Tour
When deciding between these diverse experiences, consider your interests and travel style. If culinary hands-on experiences are your priority, the Milan pizza or pasta class or the Pesto experience in Liguria offer intimate, delicious lessons. For outdoor lovers, sailing trips like the La Maddalena Archipelago or Palmarola boat tour provide scenic days at sea. Those interested in history and architecture may enjoy the Stupinigi Lodge or Vicoforte Dome.
Think about your physical activity level—some tours, like the e-bike ride or climbing the dome, require a bit more stamina. Booking early is always wise, especially for popular tours like the sailing or truffle hunts, which fill quickly. The best time to go depends on your interests—spring and fall are generally ideal for outdoor activities and scenic tours.
Final Thoughts
Italy’s range of tours offers something for every traveler: culinary experiences, outdoor adventures, cultural visits, and relaxing boat cruises. For a family seeking a fun, interactive cooking class, the Milan pizza or pasta class is a hit. If you prefer sailing and island hopping, the La Maddalena Archipelago tour is outstanding. Food lovers will appreciate the truffle hunts in Piedmont or Molise, and history buffs can’t miss the Stupinigi Lodge or Vicoforte dome.
With so many excellent options, your best bet is to select based on your interests, fitness level, and schedule. Booking early ensures you won’t miss out on Italy’s best experiences—so start planning now!
