I’ve been traveling in Italy for the last few weeks and recently encountered a fellow who said he was touring Italy, too. We struck up a conversation and come to find out, he was on a big bus group tour and was visiting Rome today. This fellow was worn out, hot and sweaty, and decked out with a “whisper” audio device hanging around his neck, the earpiece dangling down to his knees. He said, “Rome is challenging. Fifty of us have followed this woman up there with the umbrella all morning. She’s Italian, with a heavy accent. She probably has some good information, but I keep falling behind and losing the audio signal, and when I can hear it, I can’t understand her.” He went on to tell me his tour had 50 passengers, and the tour was not at all like he had envisioned.  I chuckled and was reminded of this SNL skit with Adam Sandler, where he promotes the fictional Romano Tours to Italy.

This guy said he hoped he and his wife would have time to slow down, have a glass of wine, and enjoy Rome.  But, if today is like all the others, they would shuffle through their sightseeing, get back on their bus, and return to the hotel for a group dinner. He hoped to see Italy’s beautiful landscapes, learn about its history, and experience tasty pasta.  Instead, “we are led around like cattle, packed on a big bus, rushed through sightseeing, and whisked off to the next thing on the agenda.”

You Deserve a Better Tour Experience

If you are looking for a slower, more relaxed tour experience in Italy without the stress of massive tour groups, my Best of Italy Tour promises small groups (no more than 18 people) delivering an intimate European adventure that seasoned travelers rave about.

The Complete Italian Journey: 15 Days of Authentic Experiences

In 15 days, we will visit our favorite and famous destinations north of Rome. Beginning in Rome, you’ll experience the essential tourist sights and classic destinations. Then, travel to the delightful villages of the Cinque Terre, and enjoy two days exploring this coastal region where the mountains literally fall into the sea. Volterra, my choice for the quintessential Tuscan hilltown, is sure to win you over to the “la dolce vita” lifestyle. Florence, the “cradle of the Renaissance,” will have you walking in the steps of Michelangelo, DaVinci, and the Medici.  The romantic canal-laced city, Venice, rounds out the big three tourist sites.  Finally, we will cap off the tour by relaxing on beautiful Lake Como and then take a quick look at Milan’s bustling city center. (Watch David’s highlight video here.)

Why Travelers Choose our Best of Italy Tour

If you’ve been considering a big-bus or big company Italy tour, but want something more personal and off-the-beaten-path, my approach offers the perfect balance. Recent travelers praised their guide, Ilaria, for being “well organized and detailed” while “avoiding the tourist traps, selecting great restaurants serving authentic cuisine.”  You can read plenty of honest reviews and accolades here, https://davidmcguffin.com/testimonials-all/italy-tour-reviews/.

Unlike big bus tour operations, my mission is to encourage Americans to broaden their cultural mindset through engaging and exciting travel experiences in Europe, focusing on authentic connections rather than checking boxes on a rushed itinerary.

What Sets This Tour Apart for Discerning Travelers

Stress-Free Planning: No need to worry about tips and gratuities; we take care of all that.  Hotels are clean and safe, have private baths, and are in the center of the tourist sites and city centers. We include all your breakfasts and about half of your dinners in the costs.

Expert Local Knowledge: Tour leaders and local guides are experts who share destinations’ art, history, and culture, bringing each location to life with insider stories and hidden gems.

Flexible Pacing: The tour balances guided activities with free time, allowing you to explore independently or rest as needed. Physical activity is rated from “light” to “your choice,” accommodating different fitness levels.

Smart Travel Investment for Your Time and Budget

Given that you are laying down a sizable chunk of change for a tour, you deserve more than cramped buses and rushed schedules.  Value, comfort, authenticity, and meaningful experiences far outweigh bargain-basement prices. All our tours include guaranteed small groups of 6-18 travelers, all tours and admissions, traditional dining experiences at favorite restaurants, a full-time Exploring Europe guide, and plenty of free time to explore on your own.

Ready for Your Italian Adventure?

If you’re tired of reading about Italy and ready to experience it, my Best of Italy tour offers the perfect introduction to this captivating country. With decades of experience guiding Americans through Europe, David understands what travelers want: comfort, authenticity, and memories that last a lifetime. Don’t let another year pass, wondering “what if?” Italy is there waiting for you, and with our expert guidance, you’ll discover why travelers consistently rate this as a trip of a lifetime. Visit https://davidmcguffin.com/tours/italy-tours/ to begin planning your Italian adventure today.