Italy Adventure Holidays

Showing 55 out of 337 trips

Few countries are as diverse as Italy. This sought-after destination offers everything that anyone could ever want from their adventure holiday - spectacular cities, diverse scenery, beautiful beaches, incredible architecture and the most delicious cuisine that you'll ever taste. You can experience all of this and more on one of our activity holidays in Italy. Whether you'd prefer to tackle the Paths of the Amalfi Coast, cycle the Venetian countryside, or walk the olive trails of Umbria, you can choose from a wide range of guided and self-guided options when you book your adventure tour to Italy with Headwater..

No matter where you stay in this glorious country, you'll have plenty of opportunities to make unforgettable memories.

Looking for walking routes through untouched greenery and an amazing array of wildflowers? Venice, Vicenza, Padua and Este offer wonderfully unspoilt ground on which to explore.

Perhaps you'd prefer to cycle? Allow one of our activity holidays in Italy to take you from Pisa to Florence, where you can pedal through famous spa towns, visit world-class art museums and take pictures at the leaning tower of Pisa. Alternatively, maybe cycling the wine trails of Umbria, where you can explore sun-drenched landscapes and panoramic views, sounds more to your taste.

If you want to upgrade your activity holiday in Italy to include flights, you can expect an average flight time of a couple of hours. To find out more information on flight prices and times, please get in contact with one of our team.

Looking to plan your next adventure holiday to Italy?

Italy is a country that offers so much for an unforgettable getaway but don't just take our word for it - see it for yourself. If you're about to plan your next holiday and have any questions about one of our adventure tours to Italy, one of our experienced team will be able to help.

Where can I go on an activity holiday in Italy?

We offer countless outstanding destinations for your activity holiday in Italy, as well as the possibility of multiple exciting spots just in one trip! Here are just a few of the places that you could visit:

THE AMALFI COAST

There are few places in Italy as stunning as the Amalfi Coast, with its emerald seas, pastel villages and scented lemon groves. You'll get to walk along the world's best coastal route, the 'Walk of the Gods', as you explore a region made up of the diverse islands of Procida, Ischia and Capri. As you travel through the gently rolling countryside filled with olive groves and vineyards, you'll take in the great shadow of Mount Vesuvius.

THE DOLOMITES

The Italian Dolomites are a Mecca for high-level walkers and cyclists so, if you're looking for an Italy adventure holiday that challenges you, then you're in the right place. Savour the snow-covered vistas of this UNESCO World Heritage site while you take advantage of country skiing and snowshoeing. Take routes leading into the Fanes-Sennes National Park and the jagged peaks of Tre Cime di Laverdo. Unrivalled alpine views are around every corner as you travel through the likes of Bolzano and Alta Val Pusteria.

VENETO

Our Veneto activity tours are the perfect choice for adventurers looking for a genuine grass-roots experience of Italy. Travel the winding paths and vineyards of the Venetian countryside before reaching famous Italian cities such as Venice and Verona. Explore the culture-rich streets of Padua and Vicenza, full of Renaissance history and charm, before stopping off to sample the delicious regional cuisine!

Italy : Puglia

Cycling the Heel of Italy - Alberobello to Lecce

NZ$2000


4.7 (40 reviews)

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Self-guided cycling

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Umbria

Undiscovered Villages of Umbria Walk

NZ$2135


4.8 (11 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : The Dolomites

Cycling from the Dolomites to Venice

NZ$2220


4.8 (6 reviews)

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Self-guided cycling

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 1+
Leisurely plus

Navigation App

Italy : Puglia

Journey through Puglia to Matera

NZ$2220


4.8 (8 reviews)

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Self-guided cultural tour

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Italy : The Bay of Naples

The Islands of Amalfi Walk

NZ$2330


4.6 (12 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Umbria

The Wine Trails of Umbria Cycling

NZ$2485


5.0 (1 reviews)

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Self-guided cycling

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Italian Lakes

Walking at Lakes Orta and Maggiore

NZ$3035

NEW FOR 2025

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Self-guided walking

8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 1+ & 2

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Puglia

Cycling the Heel of Italy - Matera to Lecce

NZ$3210


4.6 (10 reviews)

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Self-guided cycling

11 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Trentino

Brenner Pass to Venice Cycling

NZ$4180


5.0 (2 reviews)

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Self-guided cycling

9 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Navigation App

Italy : Sicily

Walking the Highlights of Western Sicily

NZ$2200

NEW FOR 2025

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
twin centre

Level: 2
Moderate

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : The Bay of Naples

The Amalfi Coast Walk

NZ$4420


4.8 (87 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Sicily

Volcanoes of Sicily Walk

NZ$2990


4.4 (11 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : The Bay of Naples

Paths of the Amalfi Coast

NZ$1605


4.6 (28 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 2
Moderate

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : The Bay of Naples

Walking Amalfi's Path of the Gods

NZ$1760


5.0 (2 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 2
Moderate

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Veneto

Walking in the Venetian Hills

NZ$1870


4.7 (88 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 1+
Leisurely plus

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Veneto

Heart of Veneto Cycling

NZ$2070


4.8 (72 reviews)

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Self-guided cycling

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 1
Leisurely

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Puglia

Self Guided Walking in Puglia: From Lecce to Matera

NZ$2220


4.7 (49 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 1
Leisurely

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Veneto

Bolzano, Verona & Venice Ride

NZ$2375


4.7 (18 reviews)

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Self-guided cycling

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Printed route
directions

Italy : Veneto

Venetian Villas and Vineyards Cycling

NZ$2375


4.7 (57 reviews)

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Self-guided cycling

8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 1
Leisurely

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Sicily

Secrets of Sicily Cycling

NZ$2550


4.6 (22 reviews)

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Self-guided cycling

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 1+
Leisurely plus

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Tuscany

A Taste of Tuscany Walking

NZ$2575


4.9 (28 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 2
Moderate

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Tuscany

A Taste of Tuscany Cycling

NZ$2685


4.9 (27 reviews)

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Self-guided cycling

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 2+
Moderate plus

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : The Dolomites

Walks in The Italian Dolomites

NZ$2905


4.9 (126 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 2+
Moderate plus

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Sicily

Cycling through Baroque Sicily

NZ$3255


4.4 (20 reviews)

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Self-guided cycling

8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : The Dolomites

Walking the Dolomites of Alta Badia

NZ$3255


4.8 (23 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 2+
Moderate plus

Headwater
Navigation App

Slovenia

Julian Alps to the Adriatic Cycling

NZ$4160


4.8 (118 reviews)

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Self-guided cycling

10 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 1+
Leisurely plus

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Puglia

Contrasts of Puglia Cycling

NZ$2815


4.6 (123 reviews)

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Self-guided cycling

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 1+
Leisurely plus

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Piedmont

Gastronomic Barolo Walk

NZ$4200


4.9 (91 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Piedmont

Gastronomic Barolo Cycling by e-bike

NZ$5060


4.8 (88 reviews)

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Self-guided cycling

8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2+
Moderate plus

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Tuscany

Treasures of Tuscany Walk: San Gimignano to Volterra

NZ$1585

NEW FOR 2025

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
twin centre

Level: 2+
Moderate plus

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Liguria

Walking in the Cinque Terre and Portofino

NZ$1715


4.3 (7 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

6 nights,
single centre

Level: 2
Moderate

Navigation App

Italy : Puglia

Undiscovered Puglia Walk - Discovering the South-East Coast

NZ$1825


4.6 (7 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 1
Leisurely

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : The Dolomites

Cross country skiing in the Dolomites

NZ$1980

NEW FOR 2025

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Winter snow holiday

7 nights,
single centre

Italy : Italian Lakes

Cycling Lake Garda with e-bike

NZ$2045


4.5 (2 reviews)

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Self-guided cycling

6 nights,
single centre

Level: 2+
Moderate plus

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Sardinia

Walking Sardinia's Green Coast

NZ$2045

NEW FOR 2025

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Veneto

Adriatic Coast - Venice to Poreč Ride

NZ$2110

NEW FOR 2025

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Self-guided cycling

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Navigation App

Italy : Campania

Coastal Cilento Walk

NZ$2245


4.8 (5 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2+
Moderate plus

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : The Bay of Naples

Gems of the Amalfi Coast Walking

NZ$2265


4.7 (3 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
twin centre

Level: 2
Moderate

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Umbria

Walking on the Francigena Way

NZ$2375


4.6 (11 reviews)

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Self-guided pilgrimage

9 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2+
Moderate plus

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Tuscany

Cycling in Tuscany: Pisa to Florence

NZ$2400


4.6 (8 reviews)

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Self-guided cycling

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Navigation App

Italy : Tuscany

Wine & Walk in Chianti

NZ$2440


4.0 (2 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Printed route
directions

Italy : Tuscany

Cycling the hills of San Gimignano by E-bike

NZ$2990

NEW FOR 2025

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Self-guided cycling

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 2+ & 3

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Emilia Romagna

Emilia Romagna – Bologna to Parma Cycling

NZ$3170


4.7 (3 reviews)

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Self-guided cycling

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Navigation App

Italy : Sicily

Sicily: Vino & Volcanoes

NZ$3170

 
 

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Self-guided cultural tour

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Italy : Sardinia

Undiscovered Sardinia Cycling

NZ$3210


4.7 (19 reviews)

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Self-guided cycling

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 1+
Leisurely plus

Navigation App

Italy : Italian Lakes

Cycling the Italian Lakes

NZ$3630


4.0 (1 reviews)

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Self-guided cycling

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Puglia

Highlights of Puglia Cycling

NZ$4115


4.8 (11 reviews)

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Self-guided cycling

10 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 1+
Leisurely plus

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Piedmont

Walking the Wine Villages of Piedmont

NZ$4510


4.5 (4 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : Piedmont

Cycling the Wine Villages of Piedmont by e-bike

NZ$4840


4.8 (5 reviews)

VIEW TRIP

Self-guided cycling

8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2+
Moderate plus

Headwater
Navigation App

Italy : The Bay of Naples

Walking the Amalfi Coast

NZ$3080


4.7 (6 reviews)

VIEW TRIP

Guided group walking

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 2
Moderate

Printed route
directions

Italy : Veneto

Walk The Prosecco Hills & Hidden Venice

NZ$3410


4.8 (5 reviews)

VIEW TRIP

Guided group walking

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 2
Moderate

Printed route
directions

Italy : Puglia

Walking in Puglia & Matera

NZ$3520


4.3 (12 reviews)

VIEW TRIP

Guided group walking

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Printed route
directions

Italy : Sardinia

Walking in Sardinia

NZ$3520


5.0 (1 reviews)

VIEW TRIP

Guided group walking

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 3
Stretching

Printed route
directions

Italy : The Dolomites

Snowshoeing in the Dolomites - Premium Adventure

NZ$3960

 
 

VIEW TRIP

Winter snow holiday

7 nights,
single centre

Printed route
directions

Operated by
Exodus Travels

Italy : The Dolomites

Classic Dolomites - Premium

NZ$4620


5.0 (1 reviews)

VIEW TRIP

Guided group walking

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 3
Stretching

Printed route
directions

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Where appropriate, we grade our holidays based on distance, terrain, elevation gain, remoteness, etc and categorise them into 4 relative groups. This is ultimately subjective and may vary slightly day to day; for more advice, please see the specific trip page or call one of our friendly team.

Frequently asked questions

What activities are available in Italy?

Whether you're an avid cyclist or hiker, we have a variety of activity holidays in Italy that will tick your boxes. If you're hoping to do a bit of both, then we've got you! Mix it up with a combination of walking the paths of the Amalfi Coast and then cycling the winding lanes of the Italian countryside.

You'll also find opportunities for swimming, skiing and city exploration in all of our Italy adventure tours, along with world-renowned historical sites such as Pompeii and Doge's Palace. Local delights such as wine tasting and sampling exquisite cuisine are also available.

What time of year is the cheapest to go to Italy?

Our active tours to Italy are available from February through to November and we curate our holidays to ensure that you get the best value for money from each one. Typically, travel to Italy is cheaper from March through May and September to November, though temperatures are more pleasant during the springtime.

What to expect from your activity holiday in Italy?

Your experience comes first on our adventure tours to Italy. Whether you choose a cycling or walking tour, rest assured that your holiday will be carefully crafted with your enjoyment and convenience in mind.

You'll spend your time exploring the culture-rich regions and stunning natural beauty of the Italian peninsula. There is no need to carry heavy luggage with you on your journey; while you're en route to your next hotel, our team will transport your belongings ahead of you.

We've provided a handy rating system for most of our activity holidays to Italy so that you can make the most out of your trip. You can also choose between self-guided and guided options.

If you choose a cycling adventure, then you'll receive a briefing from our staff. This practical demonstration will cover all the information and equipment that you need to enjoy your journey. On our self-guided tours, you can use our Headwater Navigation App to access tailored directions for your route, as well as GPS mapping.

What to pack for an activity holiday in Italy?

The activity that you've selected will affect what you need to pack for your holiday to Italy. You should always check the weather forecast in the days leading up to your departure to get an idea of what clothes you'll need. Your comfort comes first so there are some staples to bring along with you, including:

  • Water bottles
  • SPF and other sun protection products
  • Sunglasses and hats
  • Bike helmet (if required)
  • Comfortable shoes and clothing
  • Waterproof clothing (if required)

What to wear on an activity holiday in Italy?

Choosing what to wear for your activity tour in Italy will depend on your preferences and the weather conditions at the time of your visit. You're going to be active outdoors for most of the day so comfortable shoes and thick socks are essential. Breathable layers and shorts are recommended for the warmer seasons. In the autumn and winter months, temperatures are cooler in Italy so you may need to bring along waterproof clothes or a windbreaker.

What time of year is best for an activity holiday in Italy?

All of our adventure holidays in Italy are designed so that you can get the most out of your trip no matter the month in which you're travelling. June to September offers the best weather for your activity tour as temperatures are at their warmest and there is less chance of snow or rain.

Where in Italy is best for an active holiday?

Every destination for our Italy adventure tours offers a unique and picturesque experience of the country but some packages truly take the cake. If you're looking to explore the gentle terrain and stunning sights of Northern Italy on two wheels, then our cycling holidays to Tuscany are just the ticket. For panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, walking in Sardinia will deliver the activity holiday of your dreams.

Why choose Headwater for your adventure holiday to Italy?

We have a variety of activity holidays to Italy for every kind of adventurer, backed up by nearly 40 years of experience in creating getaways that stay with you forever. Whether you're cycling, walking or looking to do a bit of both, our team will do everything that we can to make the booking process as easy as possible.

  • Highly rated holidays - We have a 4.6 rating from many satisfied customers on Feefo so you can trust that our activity tours come strongly recommended.

  • Stunning destinations - Thanks to our five-step approval process, you get to pick from only the most beautiful locations and outstanding hotels.

  • Hassle-free booking - Not only do we craft your activity tour to Italy but we'll arrange your flights, too!

  • Winning awards - We've been recognised by the British Travel Awards for our adventure holidays across the globe, so you're guaranteed to get a holiday to remember.

  • Sustainability at heart - The People, Places & Planet plan is in place to help our tours to run sustainably and move us forward to becoming Nature Net Zero.

  • Benefitting communities - The Exodus Travel Foundation means that we're making a difference in social, conservation and disaster relief causes.

  • ABTA- and ATOL-protected - Book your Italy adventure tour with confidence thanks to both ABTA and ATOL protection. Learn more about your key rights when booking a holiday with us.

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