Italy Vacations & Adventures

Italian Lakes District Adventure Tour

From the staggering Italian Dolomites and the Mont Blanc massif to the charming Italian Lakes District, these Italy Adventures & Hiking Tours are packed with lifelong memories.

Italy is bursting with unique landscapes, peaceful villages and seldom explored mountains. There's no better way to experience its vast beauty than on one of our Italy adventure vacations and hiking tours. If you're ready to fall in love with ancient architecture, culture and incredible landscapes working together in perfect harmony, the Italian Lakes District is calling. For a challenging adventure through the far north of Italy, our Italian Dolomites hiking adventure will hit just the spot. Or, if you're keen to explore the towering Mont Blanc massif, strap on the boots and enjoy yourself a fully catered Tour du Mont Blanc hiking adventure. Indulge in the finer things in life and take a giant step to a quieter time on these awe-inspiring Italy adventure vacations and hiking tours.

Italy Vacations

Europe

Dolomites Adventure

ActiveAdventures

Operated by our sister brand Active Adventures

4.71

  • Duration 9 days
  • Activity Level Level 4 
    • Activity Level 4

      Challenge Accepted

      I'll let my trusty guides sweat the small things, so I can focus on my goal. Getting to the top, reaching the end, achieving my dreams! Sure, it'll be tough, but the views will be worth it.

    Read more about the Active Range

Explore charming villages and breathtaking landscapes on our Italian Dolomites Adventure. You'll immediately fall in love with the enchanting refugios we'll stay in every night and indulge in local cuisine as you explore one of the most stunning mountain ranges in the world.

Trip Start: Venice Trip End: Venice

Europe

Tour du Mont Blanc

4.66

  • Duration 12 days
  • Activity Level Level 4 
    • Activity Level 4

      Challenge Accepted

      I'll let my trusty guides sweat the small things, so I can focus on my goal. Getting to the top, reaching the end, achieving my dreams! Sure, it'll be tough, but the views will be worth it.

    Read more about the Active Range

Experience unmatched beauty as you hike, bike and kayak on our Tour du Mont Blanc. While most trips circumnavigate the Mont Blanc massif by foot, we've taken it a step further to also explore the history, culture and cuisine of France, Italy and Switzerland.

Trip Start: Geneva Trip End: Geneva

Europe

Italian Lakes District Adventure

4.6

  • Duration 10 days
  • Activity Level Level 3 
    • Activity Level 3

      Earn Your Lunch

      I stay active on vacation and love the feeling of relaxing after a busy day on the go. I season my trips with a little fresh exercise.

    Read more about the Active Range

Dolce Vita is Italian for sweet life, and that's exactly what you'll experience on our 10-day Italian Lakes District adventure. Discover the glaciers, meadows, forests, lakes and villages of Northern Italy, all while enjoying the finer things in life.

Trip Start: Milan Trip End: Milan

What Our Guests Say About the Trips

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Dolomites Adventure - December 2021

The Amazing Dolomites!

"This is a very special trip. I've been to many world destinations and the… read more

"This is a very special trip. I've been to many world destinations and the Dolomites totally took me by surprise. The grandeur of the scenery is second to none. Every time I looked up from our hike, I saw a different and more spectacular sight. Also, the people we met were great and our guide, Richard, was the best!

I'd highly recommend this trip, BUT, get some hiking practice in before going. For experienced hikers, this is an invigorating trip. For those that don't adventure out much, this could be difficult. Put some time in before the trip and you'll have a wonderful experience. read less

5 Stars (109 reviews)

Scott, United States

Dolomites Adventure - November 2021

Amazing Dolomiti

"Wonderful guide Richard took the 6 of us around the Dolomites safely and we had… read more

"Wonderful guide Richard took the 6 of us around the Dolomites safely and we had a lot of fun. Richard was solo guiding a group of different levels and made great efforts to accommodate us all. He was so knowledgeable and caring and full of interesting information. Loved the hotels and the food was amazing. We really got immersed in local culture. Loved hiking to the refugios and the nature was spectacular. We were very lucky with the weather and I would highly recommend Richard and touring the Dolomites. read less

5 Stars (109 reviews)

Aine, United States

Italian Lakes District Adventure - October 2021

Northern Italy Adventure

"My wife and I went on the Dolce Vita trip with Active Adventures and we… read more

"My wife and I went on the Dolce Vita trip with Active Adventures and we both feel that it was one of our top 3 holidays ever. We LOVED our guides (Andrea & Enrico - one for the mountains and one for the Lakes Region kayaking). The natural beauty was amazing but the care our guides took of the group was truly beyond our expectations. Bravo to Active Adventures for partnering with such amazing local guides who are not only knowledgeable but funny and a true pleasure to be around. We LOVED this trip and plan to do more! read less

5 Stars (42 reviews)

Dave, United States

Dolomites Adventure - October 2021

Dolomites trip

"Amazing trip!! First, was the time of the year - late September/early October means cool… read more

"Amazing trip!! First, was the time of the year - late September/early October means cool days and evenings plus fewer tourists. It seemed at times we had the mountains all to ourselves. The tour was perfectly designed to combine tough hiking with climbs along with some downtime to relax and absorb the magnificent scenery. Optional hikes provided that extra workout which was rewarded with even better vistas. The refugios were the right balance between mountain rustic and luxury spa-like comfort. The food was outstanding at all the stops along the way. And of course, what really made the trip altogether wonderful was our guide - Richard - a local mountaineering specialist who was absolutely outstanding. Our trip was made up of folks with different backgrounds, ages, hiking experience, and physical ability and Richard made it work for everyone. He provided the historical context from the perspective of one who lives there and whose family has lived there for generations. This was overall, beginning to end, a great trip. read less

5 Stars (109 reviews)

Edward, United States

Tour du Mont Blanc - October 2021

Mont Blanc September 2021

"The trip was extremely good, very much enjoyed it. The guides Claire and Celine… read more

"The trip was extremely good, very much enjoyed it. The guides Claire and Celine were excellent, very knowledgeable and always willing to assist read less

4 Stars (185 reviews)

Bill, Canada

Dolomites Adventure - October 2021

Incredible beauty in nature and people

"This was all seen through the lens of physical challenge of outdoor activity.
The itinerary and… read more

"This was all seen through the lens of physical challenge of outdoor activity.
The itinerary and length of the trip were just about ideal. The accommodations were lovely. The first hotel was in a great location! The last hotel so personally lovely. Food was just about perfect.....but the best part was our guide, Richard. He was kind, humble, intuitive knowledgeable, responsible, a genuine good person. read less

5 Stars (109 reviews)

Karen, United States

Dolomites Adventure - October 2021

Ultimate Dolomites

"This trip was amazing in so many ways. The beauty of the Dolomites is… read more

"This trip was amazing in so many ways. The beauty of the Dolomites is unbelievable and cannot be captured in photographs. The hikes are quite challenging, but the views are incredibly rewarding. Our local Italian guides (Miriam and Ivan) added so much to the experience. The refugios were very nice and the hotels were absolutely great – especially the one in San Cassiano. The food was also exceptional every day of the trip. I loved the challenge of the via ferrata on the last day. What an end to a wonderful trip! read less

5 Stars (109 reviews)

Noma, United States

Dolomites Adventure - October 2021

Most fun guides ever!

"Fabulous guides: enthusiastic about the Dolomites, personable and fun to be around. Spectacular scenery and… read more

"Fabulous guides: enthusiastic about the Dolomites, personable and fun to be around. Spectacular scenery and options for easier or tougher experience i.e. extra afternoon hike or ebike option. read less

4 Stars (109 reviews)

Elizabeth, United States

Dolomites Adventure - October 2021

Trip of a Lifetime!

"This Dolomiti experience with Active Adventures was all I had dreamed of and more. … read more

"This Dolomiti experience with Active Adventures was all I had dreamed of and more. Before and during the trip the staff was promptly and thoroughly responsive to any concerns, which I greatly appreciated, and the trip itself was a magical blend of different delights within the Dolomiti -- hiking, biking, rifugios, the challenging Via Ferrata, rich World War I history, gorgeous scenery and weather, great food, and then beautiful and comfy accommodations to cap it off at the end of each incredible day. Our guides, Richard and Marika, were the absolute best, highly knowledgeable and helpful, as well as fun and entertaining, always providing a safe environment within which to enjoy the Dolomiti. In our case it was necessary for Richard to modify the itinerary in order to meet the needs of everyone in our group, and he did this seamlessly and beautifully, allowing each of us to fully enjoy our experience. The transfer drivers and all other details were thoroughly covered, which allowed for things to flow well from start to finish. This trip was definitely a lifetime highlight for me, and I'm grateful to Active Adventures for providing such an incredible opportunity. read less

5 Stars (109 reviews)

Luann, United States

Dolomites Adventure - October 2021

Active Adventures does it again

"My 4th trip with Active Adventures & might be the best yet. Stunning 360 views,… read more

"My 4th trip with Active Adventures & might be the best yet. Stunning 360 views, superb accommodations & daily doable hikes. Via Ferrata was challenging & quite frankly scary but superb guides kept us safe & confident. read less

5 Stars (109 reviews)

Geri, United States

Dolomites Adventure - October 2021

Dolomites - Great Trip - Great Area

"This is our 4th trip with Active Adventures and once again it was awesome. … read more

"This is our 4th trip with Active Adventures and once again it was awesome. The Dolomites are probably the best 360 wow factor area that we have been. In addition, the guides were first class, accommodations and food were great. The level of activity was wonderful. Enough to challenge you without overdoing it. Enough flexibility and options for all who were on the trip. We cannot wait for our next trip! read less

4 Stars (109 reviews)

Bob, United States

Tour du Mont Blanc - October 2021

Doing the Mt Blanc circuit was a unique experience!

"The tour was challenging but very achievable if you followed the fitness guidelines provided by… read more

"The tour was challenging but very achievable if you followed the fitness guidelines provided by Active. Our two guides...Claire and Celine were absolutely exceptional! They were experienced wilderness guides--capable, knowledgeable and passionate about the mountainous region we were exploring and in our fulfillment of all aspects of the trip. They did not disappoint! When the weather was less than favorable, their support and encouragement was genuine-they truly cared about us! And the scenery was impressive as any iconic mountain range can be! Having done New Zealand and Patagonia, this tour rates in that classification-not to be missed! read less

4 Stars (185 reviews)

Gretchen, United States

Dolomites Adventure - October 2021

September hiking in the Dolomites

"This area of northern Italy is like no other: deep blue skies, white towering mountains,… read more

"This area of northern Italy is like no other: deep blue skies, white towering mountains, and green pastures. The hiking is rather long and the downhills are difficult. Via Defeats was a rush but those with fear of heights or weak upper body strength should be discouraged by the company to omit this part of the adventure. The two Italian guides were very supportive. San Cassiano was a beautiful town. read less

4 Stars (109 reviews)

Paul, United States

Dolomites Adventure - October 2021

Ultimate Dolomites

"Our Italian guides Miriam and Ivan were excellent. They made the Italian Dolomites experience. I… read more

"Our Italian guides Miriam and Ivan were excellent. They made the Italian Dolomites experience. I will only use local guides going forward. Next time in New Zealand, I will again use Active Adventures to show their country in great detail with the same pride as the Italian guides. read less

4 Stars (109 reviews)

Trudi, Switzerland

Tour du Mont Blanc - October 2021

Great Alps Trip

"Really enjoyed the trip. Enjoyed the hiking and the food especially. The only… read more

"Really enjoyed the trip. Enjoyed the hiking and the food especially. The only issue really was the bad weather days which is beyond anyone's control. Was also grateful for the extra help in getting the COVID test done on the final day. read less

4 Stars (185 reviews)

Jason, United States

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Secure Your Spot Now, Pay the Rest Later

As members of the Active Adventures family, Austin Adventures offers booking assurance that allows you to secure your spot with a deposit now and pay the rest later. Plus, if your plans change or you can’t travel, you can transfer your booking or request a refund on any additional funds paid (less deposit) up to 90 days from your original trip start date.  

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Meet Your Italy Vacation Guides

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most visited place in Italy?

The most visited place in Italy is the Colosseum. Built by Vespasian in 72 CE and enlarged by the addition of a fourth story by his son, Titus, it was a venue for public spectacles and shows - even mock sea battles. This huge amphitheater, the largest of its kind ever built by the Roman Empire and the largest of their constructions to survive, remained a model for sports facilities right up to modern times.

What is the best month to travel to Italy?

Italy's best travel months are May, June, September, and October. They're also the busiest and most expensive time to visit (with the north remaining just as busy throughout midsummer). Crowds aside, these months combine the convenience of peak season with pleasant weather.

What is the most famous food in Italy?

Kicking things off with the big daddy of Italian cuisine, forget anything you once thought about pizza: here in Italy, pizza making is a form of art. Think ultra-crisp stone-baked dough, tomatoes bursting with the countryside from which they were grown, creamy mozzarella and simple toppings scattered with fresh basil leaves. Try the classic margherita for a masterclass in simple pleasures, or spice it up a little by diving into toppings like salty prosciutto and punchy white anchovies.

Do I need a visa to visit Italy?

It is your responsibility stay up to date on the latest visa and entry requirements for your destination. Please use the CIBT entry tracker on our website as a guideline or visit the relevant immigration webpage for more information regarding this.

What about vaccinations in Italy?

You don't need any vaccinations for Italy. Easy!

Do you recommend buying travel insurance?

As an Active Adventures traveller, It’s essential you take out travel insurance to cover the likes of personal injury, medical expenses, trip cancellation for your travel with us. Please head to our Travel Insurance page for more in-depth information and insurance provider options. It’s also important to check your insurance covers all the activities you’ll be partaking in, in case you’re travelling to altitude or looking at extreme sports.

Can you help me find international flights to Italy?

We recommend booking your flights through our preferred travel partner – Fuzion Travel. They’re our experienced hand-picked experts in travel, passionate about what they do, and will tailor-make your flight itinerary to match your Active Adventures tour. Get in touch with them directly by email – [email protected] fuziontravel.co.nz or on +1-833-244-5886. Let them know your preferred travel plans, including any stopovers or extra nights’ accommodation, and they’ll put everything in place for you. They offer a total travel solution and five star service that you’ll want to tell your friends about!

What's included on your Italy trips?

Accommodation
On your Italian trip you'll stay in a variety of places depending on the destination and activities. For the most part you'll stay in comfortable B&B’s around the country. Whilst during the trek in Fanes-Senes-Braies Natural Park on the Dolomiti trek, you'll stay in mountain lodges, known locally as rifugio’s.

Transport
Your transport will be a mixture of private vehicle, bike, kayak and your very own two feet on our trips in Italy. All your transport is included from the start of your trip and we'll drop you at the airport at the end. The details are all listed in the trip specific itineraries.

Meals
All your meals are included as described in the itinerary except on your free days. We have found that people enjoy checking out what is on offer by themselves sometimes, so you can go and see what's out there! On every other day and especially after any long hikes, we've chosen places to eat that can cater for our hearty appetites, work well with our small groups (they know we are coming) and provide us with an authentic destination specific culinary experience. There are always options for you, so you can either be brave or choose something more familiar. You can be assured that on all our trips we will make sure you are very well fed, and Europe's vast array of cuisine won't disappoint you!

Trip leaders
Our trips are all led by an experienced Trip Leader alongside a local specialist guide. Our Trip Leaders are very proud to work with Active Adventures and often lead our trips for many years, for which we are very lucky and very grateful, as it means we're able to consistently offer a fantastic level of service. They work closely with our local specialist guides to provide you with a seamless, fun, exciting and memorable trip. They will happily share with you as much or as little as you want to know about the history, culture, social aspects and lifestyle of the country you are visiting.

How many people are there on each of your Italy trips?

We generally take up to 14 people per trip, although this can vary, and all our trips have at least two of our guides to look after you (apart from the occasions we have a small group). We have found that our trips tend to attract a particular kind of person and many people have commented that the social scene was one of the highlights of their trip!

What rooming is provided on your Italy trips?

Our trip fares are based on a twin-share rate (two people per room), though in certain places, ie; the refuge/refugio’s on the Dolomites Adventure, you'll be sharing a room with up to 10 people and there will be a large bathroom with private cubicles which is shared by everyone at that accommodation.

What kind of clothing should I be packing?

Once you've booked your trip, you'll have access to a gear list in your portal on exactly what to bring along. The gear list is carefully thought out to provide you with everything you need to be warm and happy, or cool and relaxed, whatever the weather! So it is best to bring everything we recommend along, if you don't bring everything you need, we can't guarantee your comfort.

Do I need hiking boots or are hiking sneakers okay?

You will need proper hiking boots - trail shoes are not good enough. We'll be taking you to some awesome places where you'll be hiking over a variety of terrain, therefore your boots should have full ankle support and a stiff sole with a high profile tread. It's also important that whichever footwear you decide to bring that it's well broken-in and waterproofed before you come down. If you have good ankles that will be able to cope pretty well with varied terrain, then good hiking shoes should be fine, but if not then hiking boots will give you better support.

What is the food like in Italy?

Famous for its incredible pasta, creamy risottos and wood-fired pizzas, Italy's cuisine is known across the world. An authentic Italian meal is a true culinary experience, they enjoy leisurely meals of many courses, with a great melding of flavors, aromas, colors and textures. Plentiful fruits, vegetables, grains, cheeses, meats and fish in each meal. In the North of Italy, fish (such as cod, or baccalà), potatoes, rice, corn (maize), sausages, pork, and different types of cheese are the most common ingredients. Cheese, cold cuts and wine are central to Italian cuisine, along with pizza and coffee (especially espresso).

What if I need a special diet?

We are accustomed to catering to the following special diets:

  • vegan (no meat or animal products)
  • vegetarian (no meat products)
  • fishatarian (vegetarian, and eat fish)
  • no red meat (eat chicken & fish)
  • gluten intolerant (no wheat, rye, barley or oats)
  • lactose intolerant (no dairy products)

You will get the opportunity to specify your particular requirements when you fill in our pre-trip questionnaire. If you have any other dietary requirements please let us know well in advance, via email or the online questionnaire.

What is the currency in Italy?

The currency in Italy is the Euro €.

How much spending money should I bring and where do I get local currencies?

Our trips include all transportation, guiding, meals and activities (except where indicated on the itinerary). Most people like to bring a little extra to cover a round of drinks at the pub, take home some souvenirs, book a tour and eat out on their free day, and tip our guides if they've had a great time. 

Usually the easiest thing to do is use your credit or debit card to withdraw money directly from your home account, in local currency. There are plenty of ATM's and banks in larger towns in Europe, and ATM's will accept all major credit cards and many debit cards. Cash advances are the most convenient way to get cash.

What is the time zone in Italy?

For the majority of the summer season Italy is in the Central European (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

What type of plugs and voltage do you use in Italy?

Italy operate on a 220V AC system with Plug Type C which consists of two round parallel pins while the wall plug has two holes where it is connected.

Will I have access to internet/WiFi?

WiFi is available almost everywhere in cities and easy enough to find in most towns/villages so you can rely on having regularly access during your trip. If you have data roaming switched on, then you'll be able to use the internet on your smartphone, but beware of the fees! WiFi is available at most of the accommodations that you'll be staying at, sometimes for a small cost so check this out at each location when you arrive. There is no WiFi on the Multi-day hike and we’re sometimes without reception.

What is the weather like in Italy?

Italy has a predominantly Mediterranean climate with mild, sometimes rainy winters and sunny, hot, and usually dry summers. In northern Italy and the Dolomites, expect hot summers good for swimming in mountain lakes and hiking the Dolomites, with average temperatures are in the mid 20's C (80F) on the valley floors and cooler, of course, as you climb in altitude.

What is there to do in Venice?

As the capital of the Veneto Region of Northern Italy, Venice actually lies on 117 small islands that are connected by a series of bridges and separated by a network of canals. Visit the St. Mark’s Basilica, it’s a sublime piece of architecture that has stood the test of time since its creation in 1092 and remains one of the most important religious buildings in Northern Italy. Canale Grande is the largest canal, more like a river, only four bridges span the grand canal as generally people and tourists travel along the canal, not over it. Consider walking along sections of the canal, admiring the buildings that line it, and watching the busy water traffic of Venice. Or if you’re looking for a spot of relaxation and to get away from the bulk of the tourists, the Lido is the place to go. This separate island creates a barrier between Venice and the Adriatic Sea and features a long stretch of beautiful beach to enjoy.

What is there to do in Milan City?

You can catch a local train from the airport to the centre of town, and Milan is a walkable city with priceless works of art, eccentric beautiful buildings, world-class restaurants and oases of calm. We recommend visiting the Milan Cathedral, it’s a truly monumental building and is famed for its sublime architecture and took over 600 years to complete. Explore the Grand Gallery, this cross shaped mall is covered via four glass panelled arms that let in the sunlight perfectly, whilst the walls and shop fronts are decorated with ornate panelling and stucco artwork. Wander around Castello Sforzesco, this 15th century castle has a central location in Milan and is set in extensive grounds and gardens, at the front of the castle stands an immense brick wall lined with battlements and frame by a central guard tower. If you feel like seeing more the Torre Branca is a large observation tower, ‘Torre Littoria’, that stands at a colossal 108.6m high, constructed in 1933, from here you have unparalleled views of the city of Milan and can see for miles.

Is there a number to call in an emergency? How can my family, friends or colleagues contact me

Please contact our New Zealand office using the details below. If the office is unattended (outside of New Zealand business hours), please leave a message so we can pick it up and respond as soon as we can.
Free phone 1 800 661 9073 (USA, Canada & Australia)
Free phone 0808 234 7780 (UK)
Free phone 0800 234 726 (New Zealand)
Worldwide +64 3 450 0414, ext 1
Email: service@activeadventures.com

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Learn More About Italy

Why Travel With Us

benefit group size

Just-right group sizes allow you to get off the beaten path

With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you’ll enjoy a highly personalized experience with the perspective of an insider.

benefit guides

Award-winning guides lead the way

It’s so much easier to relax and enjoy your adventure when you have fun, caring guides who know the land, are experts in motivation, sweat all the details and whip up incredible meals, too!

benefit inclusive

You’ll never need to sweat the details

When we say all inclusive, we mean it! Meals and snacks, activities, lodging, transportation, guiding services and more. Every detail is handled; all you need to do is show up!

benefit safety

Enjoy freedom to push your boundaries – safely

Every aspect of your trip is thoroughly considered for your safety, from highly vetted vendors and well-maintained equipment to extensively trained guides and our seasoned operations team at headquarters.

benefit family

Decades of expertise mean you’ll experience only the best

Family travel and North American National Parks are our specialty. We’ve perfected our itineraries and sustained relationships for decades, ensuring you'll experience your destination to the fullest.

benefit wow

"Wow Moments” take your trip from enjoyable to extraordinary

For us, the extra mile is never extra, it’s part of the way! Count on special touches throughout your trip that will amplify your experience. If we’ve done our job, they’ll have you saying “wow!”