Whether you travel with Viaggi di Gusto or not, here’s my recipe to create memorable experiences in Italy.

Planning a trip to Italy that steers clear of overcrowded tourist hotspots requires strategic thinking and a whole lot of research. Here's my guide to discovering the country's hidden gems, based on more than 20 years' experience traveling Italy with small groups.

If you get a couple hours free while on a tour anywhere in Italy, break away and try my recommendations.

Here are some of our favorite things to do in Florence that will get you beyond the usual museums, Accademia, and the Duomo area.

More Italian cities have taken steps to restrict “overtourism” driven by large groups and cruise ships, making it more complicated to plan your own trip to popular destinations.

Here's one recommendation if you really want to see and do all the top Florence or Rome attractions you've heard about. A hop-on hop-off bus.