Italy Luxury Tours & Vacations & Holidays 2025 & 2026

Italy LGBTQ+ Rights

Italy offers a mix of progress and challenges when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights. LGBTQ+ individuals benefit from anti-discrimination laws that protect against bias based on sexual orientation and gender identity, and same-sex couples have had access to civil unions since 2016. These unions provide many of the legal rights associated with marriage, such as inheritance and hospital visitation. However, same-sex marriage itself is not recognized, and joint adoption rights for same-sex couples remain unavailable, reflecting gaps in full equality.

In recent years, the political landscape has become more conservative, with policies that complicate family recognition for LGBTQ+ individuals. This includes restrictions on surrogacy, both domestically and abroad, which have disproportionately impacted same-sex couples looking to start families. Despite these setbacks, public opinion is gradually becoming more supportive of LGBTQ+ rights, driven by younger generations and urban communities.

Major cities like Rome, Milan, and Naples are home to vibrant LGBTQ+ scenes, with inclusive nightlife, annual Pride events, and a growing cultural acceptance. These urban hubs provide welcoming spaces for the LGBTQ+ community, offering opportunities for connection and celebration. However, attitudes in smaller towns and rural areas can still reflect the country’s traditional and religious roots.

Italy’s blend of progress and challenges makes it a unique case in Europe. While there is much to celebrate in terms of visibility and community support, continued advocacy is essential to achieve full equality. LGBTQ+ travelers can enjoy the country’s rich history, culture, and welcoming atmosphere in its major cities, where inclusivity shines the brightest.

Things to do in Italy

The Colosseum

The Colosseum is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Italy. Built in 80 AD, it could originally hold up to 80,000 spectators and was used for gladiatorial contests and other public spectacles. Today, visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the history of this impressive structure. Walking through the Colosseum is like stepping back in time, with the sounds of the crowds and swords clashing almost audible as you wander through the ruins. The Colosseum also houses a museum where you can see artifacts from ancient Rome and learn more about the amphitheater’s history. Whether you’re interested in history or architecture, the Colosseum is a must-visit attraction. The sheer size and grandeur of the structure are also sure to impress, so don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views of the Colosseum and the surrounding area.

Venetian gondola ride

One of the most quintessentially Venetian experiences is taking a gondola ride through the city’s picturesque canals. As you glide through the narrow waterways and under charming bridges, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the city’s architecture and scenery. While it may seem like a touristy activity, it’s a must-do experience that offers a unique perspective on Venice. Negotiate the price with your gondolier beforehand, and consider sharing a ride with others to save some money. Whether you opt for a private or shared ride, a gondola ride in Venice is a romantic and unforgettable way to spend an afternoon or evening.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a must-see attraction for any traveler visiting the city of Pisa. This bell tower is famous for its tilt, caused by an unstable foundation. Despite its precarious lean, visitors can climb to the top for breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Just be prepared for a bit of a workout – the tower leans at a 5.5-degree angle. Don’t forget to snap a classic tourist photo of yourself “holding up” the tower. While the tower may be a bit of a tourist trap, it’s still worth a visit. The tower is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture, and the surrounding Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition to the tower, visitors can also explore the nearby Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Baptistery of St. John. For a unique experience, consider visiting the tower at night when it’s illuminated and looks even more magical under the stars.

Weather in Italy

• January

  6°C - 13°C

  January brings averages of 8°C in Rome, with around 25 mm of rainfall. Because of the colder temperatures, prices are lower so if you are looking to save money the best time to visit is during the winter.

• February

  6°C - 14°C

  February is similar to January with temperatures averaging at around 9°C.

• March

  6°C - 17°C

  Temperatures start to pick up a bit with the average reaching around 12°C.

• April

  8°C - 20°C

  April is a good time to visit if you aren't a fan of hot weather but also don't want anything too cold. With averages hitting around 15°C, it brings a pleasant atmosphere with little rain.

• May

  13°C - 24°C

  May brings warmer temperatures and also a slight increase in average rainfall (33mm). Since it is on the cusp of the summer season it is a nice time to visit if you are looking to save money.

• June

  17°C - 29°C

  June is the start of peak season as the weather really picks up. Enjoy long hot sunny days and very little rainfall. The Amalfi Coast comes to life during the summer with temperatures averaging at 27°C.

• July

  19°C - 32°C

  July is very similar to June, lots of hot sunshine and little to no rainfall. Again the Amalfi Coast is a fantastic place to visit as sea temperatures reach 25°C.

• August

  18°C - 30°C

  With it still being peak season prices are high for August but in return, you get glorious sunshine and virtually no rainfall. In Rome, temperatures average at 24°C.

• September

  16°C - 27°C

  In September, temperatures start to cool off slightly, so it would be a good time to go if you like the heat, but nothing scorching. Average rain precipitation increases to 42mm.

• October

  12°C - 23°C

  October sees milder temperatures and around the same rainfall as September.

• November

  8°C - 18°C

  In November daily averages in Rome drop to 13°C. Precipitation levels increase to 50mm. Average temperatures fall to 10°C in Rome.

• December

  4°C - 15°C

  In December rainfall jumps up quite a lot to around 96mm. If you are looking for that winter festive feeling then Rome is a great destination.

Getting to Italy

If you’re dreaming of a trip to Italy, the first step is figuring out how to get there. Luckily, there are plenty of airlines that offer flights to Italy from all over the world. Some of the most popular airlines include Alitalia, Delta, American Airlines, United, and Emirates. To save money and ensure availability during peak travel seasons, it’s best to book your flights in advance. And when it comes to choosing an airport, consider flying into major hubs like Rome’s Fiumicino Airport or Milan’s Malpensa Airport for easy access to transportation options.

Traveling by train in Italy is a convenient and efficient way to explore the country. Trenitalia, the national train company, operates an extensive network that connects major cities and smaller towns. For those looking to travel quickly between major cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, the high-speed trains, known as Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, and Frecciabianca, offer a comfortable and speedy option. Regional and local trains are also available for those looking to explore smaller towns and villages.

Before embarking on your trip to Italy, it’s crucial to determine whether or not you need a visa. Depending on your country of origin, the length of your stay, and the purpose of your visit, you may or may not require a visa. It’s important to choose the right type of visa for your specific situation, as there are various options available, including tourist, business, study, and work visas. Each type of visa has its own set of requirements and restrictions, so it’s essential to carefully review your options and select the one that best suits your needs. Our team of travel experts can assist you in navigating the visa application process and ensuring that you have all the necessary paperwork and documents for your international travel. Contact us today to learn more.