Best Italy Travel Itineraries for College Students: Discover Your Ideal Immersive Journey

By Riccardo Piller

Spring 2025

Pizza, pasta, museums, fashion, and luxury cars, these might be the first things that come to mind when you think of Italy. But Italy is so much more than that. As a young adult, there’s a totally different side of the country that can make your trip unforgettable. For many, traveling to Italy is a dream, and after reading this article, it can easily become yours too.

I’ve traveled to many countries across Europe - Spain, Greece, Portugal, France, Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands, England, and Sweden - but none compare to Italy. Having lived in Italy my entire life, I’ve explored cities and regions across the north, center, and south. I loved each place I visited, but in this article, I’ll share my top three itineraries for experiencing the best of Italy:

  • Timeless Beauty: A Journey Through Rome, Florence and Venice

  • La Bella Vita: Sun, Sea and Charm in Naples, Otranto and Syracuse

  • Alpine Experience: Discovering Livigno and Lake Como

Italy may be a small country, but it offers an incredible variety of experiences. From the majestic Alps in the north to the beautiful beaches in the south, Italy has something for everyone. Each of the trips I’ll discuss is distinct from the others, so after reading this article, you’ll be able to choose which one suits you best. But first, you’re probably wondering why you should travel and, more importantly, why you should choose Italy.

Why Travel?

Some people naturally love traveling, while others don’t, but it remains incredibly valuable. Beyond the excitement of exploring new places, travel pushes you out of your comfort zone, fostering personal growth. According to Elizabeth Gorga, the international traveler and writer for GoAbroad, highlights several reasons why traveling while you’re young can be life-changing:

  • You’ll become more fearless

  • You’ll gain real-world experience

  • You’ll learn independence

  • You’ll discover hidden passions

  • You’ll build confidence

Personally, traveling has shaped me. Every trip has made me feel like a new version of myself, not because it changed me, but because it revealed my truest self. Being far from home has taught me to rely on myself and grow in ways I never expected.

Why Choose Italy For Your Next Trip?

I may be biased, but after traveling the world, I still believe Italy is the best destination for the following reasons:

  • History & Culture: Italy is like a living history book. In fact, according to Florian Zandt, a data journalist of Statista, Italy boasts the highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, 60 in total, making Italy one of the most culturally rich countries in the world.

  • Natural Beauty: Whether you’re into skiing, beach trips, or simply exploring beautiful landscapes, Italy has it all. From the snow-capped Alps  to the sunny Mediterranean coast, you can experience a wide range of natural beauty all in one country.

  • Quality of Life: Italians know how to enjoy life, and you will too. The slower pace of life, combined with an emphasis on food and good company, makes it easy to relax and enjoy even the smallest moments. Italians tend to value the quality of their time, and this attitude is something that is easily shared with visitors.

  • Food and Wine: If you love food (and who doesn’t?), Italy is a dream. You’ll get to taste authentic Italian pizza and pasta, and every region offers unique traditional dishes you can only find in Italy. And let’s not forget the wine! You can try a wide variety of wines from different regions, each with its own unique flavor, and pair them with different dishes for an awesome culinary experience.

Every region has its own unique charm, making every trip unforgettable. Choosing the best itineraries wasn’t easy, but the ones I’ve selected offer the ultimate Italian experience for college students.

Before we dive in: This is an authentic guide for college students to enjoy the hidden experiences in a costly manner rather than the typical tourist paths designed to encourage unnecessary spending.

Itinerary 1 - Timeless Beauty

Best period for traveling: September - June

If you like history and exploring cities, this itinerary is perfect for you. Rome, Florence, and Venice are Italy’s top cities, each with its unique culture, food, and identity. They’re the most visited cities thanks to their monuments, museums, and attractions.

Main Attractions

Rome (According to the Rome's official tourism website)

1.    Colosseum *

2.    St.Peter Square

3.    Trevi Fountain

4.    Roman Forum and the Palatine *

5.    Pantheon

Florence (According to the Florence's official tourism website)

1.    Florence Cathedral

2.    Ponte Vecchio

3.    Uffizi Gallery *

4.    Palazzo Vecchio *

5.    Accademia Gallery *

Venice (According to the Venezia's official tourism website)

1.    St. Mark’s Square

2.    Grand Canal

3.    Grand Theather La Fenice

4.    Doge’s Palace *

5.    Rialto Bridge

( * = Entry fees)

You can admire all of these attractions from the outside without paying. However, they are often crowded with tourists, while there are other hidden spots known only to locals that will truly take your breath away.

Hidden Gems

Rome

  • Pincio View

  • Terrazza Caffarelli

  • Villa Aldobrandini

These are all scenic spots in Rome offering stunning panoramic views of the city. Each location provides a unique perspective on Rome’s historic skyline.

Florence

  • Giardini Villa Bardini 

  • Giardino delle rose

  • Giardino di boboli

They're all are beautiful gardens in Florence, each offering scenic views and a peaceful retreat, showcasing the city’s rich history and natural beauty.

Venice

  • Calle Varisco

  • Fondamenta della Misericordia

  • Fondamenta delle Zattere

They're all quiet, hidden spots in Venice, ideal for escaping the crowds and experiencing the city’s charm in a more peaceful setting.

After discovering the hidden gems of these iconic cities, it’s time to explore the best non-touristic restaurants and fresh food markets, where you can enjoy authentic Italian flavors at local prices.

I had the pleasure of interviewing Agathe Innocenti, an Italian entrepreneur in Rome’s tourism sector, who shared valuable insights about dining in Italy. She explained that to truly enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, you need to avoid touristy spots and eat where locals go. In many Italian cities especially near major attractions restaurants often charge high prices aimed at tourists.

Agathe pointed out that many restaurants in central Rome take advantage of the heavy tourist traffic to boost profits. For example, she told me that a simple dish like Pasta alla Carbonara might cost around €5 to prepare, but is often sold for over €20 in touristic restaurants. The same goes for wine: bottles that normally cost between €15 and €50 can appear on menus at €30 to €200.

She added that many Italians can’t afford these inflated prices, which is why some restaurants choose to keep their prices reasonable. Interestingly, those are often the places where you’ll find the most authentic and high-quality Italian food.

After discovering the hidden gems of these iconic cities, it’s time for you to explore in a separate page the best non-touristic restaurants and fresh food markets of Rome, Florence and Venice, where you can enjoy authentic Italian flavors at local prices.

During July and August, the heat can be intense, and the streets are overcrowded with tourists. Many visitors prefer the south in summer, making it the perfect time to explore cities like the ones of the next trip.

Itinerary 2 - La Bella Vita

Best period for traveling: June - September  

Italian beaches and coastal cities are gaining popularity every year, with more tourists visiting the south in the summer. According to the Italian National Institute of Statistics, foreign tourist overnight stays increased in all three summer months of 2024: +4.5% in July, +3.0% in August, and +0.2% in September compared to 2023.

This growth highlights the rising tourism in southern Italy, driven by the perfect Mediterranean climate, stunning beaches, and the unique Italian atmosphere. After visiting many southern cities, I can say that the top 3 are:

  1. Naples (According to the Campania Region Website) - A city rich in history, where you can experience thousands of years of culture. The historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a vibrant open-air museum with charming streets, local shops, and authentic Napoletan food. Nearby, you’ll find stunning beaches and the beautiful island of Capri.

  2. Otranto (According to the Puglia Region Website) - Otranto is renowned for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and charming old town. The surrounding coastline offers pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for beach lovers.

  3. Syracuse (According to the Sicily Region Website) - Syracuse is a historic city known for its ancient ruins and charming streets. It offers a blend of culture, history, and beautiful coastal views. Visitors can explore the city’s Greek and Roman heritage and experience local culture and cuisine.

In all three cities, you can immerse yourself in history and charm while also relaxing on nearby beaches. The most popular beaches tend to be crowded with tourists, but since I have friends in each of the cities I just mentioned, I’ve discovered some hidden beaches that few visitors know about.

Hidden Beaches

  • Baia di trentaremi (4 miles from Naples)

  • Baia dei turchi (4 miles from Otranto)

  • Spiaggia di Minaretto (6 miles from Syracuse)

These beaches are located along three distinct Italian seas. The Mediterranean Sea, where Baia di Trentaremi lies, is known for its calm and warm waters. Baia dei Turchi, on the Adriatic Sea, is famous for its turquoise waters and peaceful beaches. Finally, Spiaggia di Minaretto, along the Ionian Sea, offers some of Italy’s clearest, warmest waters, ideal for snorkeling and diving.

You can reach these beaches easily by bus or taxi, both of which are very affordable. In general, prices in the South are much lower compared to the big cities from the first trip. Food is also very cheap, so I won’t recommend any specific restaurants. Instead, I’ll make you discover the top local specialties from Naples, Otranto and Syracuse that you can’t miss.

Summer is definitely the best time to experience the South of Italy. In contrast, winter is ideal for exploring the North, particularly the destinations I’m about to introduce.

Itinerary 3 - Alpine Experience

Best period for traveling: December – March 

When I say that I'm from the Alps in Italy, most of the people can't believe it because they don't know that part of the alps is in Italy. Actually, according to Wikipedia, 27.2% of alps is located in north of Italy, only Austria has a higher percentage (28.7%), and I believe the area where I grew up is the most beautiful part of the alps.

Livigno is a vibrant, stylish, and dynamic town situated 1.13 miles above sea level. I was born in Livigno, which is one of the most popular ski area in Italy, and since I used to compete in ski races around Italy, I visited many other ski villages but none of them compare to Livigno. In fact, Livigno has been selected to host all freestyle events next year at the Winter Olympics 2026. If you love mountains, snow, and skiing, Livigno is the perfect destination for you. But even if you’re not into winter sports, Livigno has plenty to offer.

Lake Como is one of the most luxurious places in Italy but it's not just about huge villas and boats, it’s also an incredible place for adventure and fun. Whether you’re into boat rides, hiking scenic trails, or just relaxing by the water with friends, the lake has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a getaway with stunning scenery, a bit of adventure, and a vibrant social scene, Lake Como is the perfect spot to explore.

These two destinations are quite different from each other, yet together they offer a complete and unforgettable experience of the Alps, with a wide range of activities to enjoy.

Main activities 

Livigno

According to Luca Moretti, the CEO of Livigno Tourism, Livigno is one of the best places to ski in Europe offering 74 miles of ski trails and affordable ski passes with discounts for young adults. During our interview, Luca also showed me the different special offers for young adults that make skiing in Livigno a very affordable activity for college students.

Livigno offers several discounts on lift passes, such as the “Student Pass” or “Youth Pass,” providing significant savings based on the period. Many accommodations and ski schools offer student-specific packages that include lodging, lift passes, and ski rentals at reduced rates. Visiting during off-peak seasons can also provide further savings thanks to the “Skipass Free” offer, which includes a 7-day lift pass with your hotel booking when you stay in Livigno for a week. Besides skiing and snowboarding, there are other activities that will make your trip to Livigno unforgettable: 

  • Snowshoeing and Ski Mountaineering: Livigno has many paths for hiking in the snow using snowshoeing or mountaineering skies. You can explore the majestic mountains of Livigno and enjoy a beautiful view at almost 1.80 miles above the sea level.

  • Après-Ski and Nightlife: Livigno has a lively après-ski scene, with many bars, clubs, and mountain huts offering music, drinks, and entertainment right after the lift closures. It’s the perfect way to unwind and socialize after a day on the slopes, with many spots offering special deals for students and young adults.

  • Wellness and relaxation: Almost every hotel in Livigno is equipped with wellness areas and spas where you can recharge. For those staying in hotels without a spa, there is a Wellness Center, open to everyone. It features saunas, hot tubs, relaxation area etc... offering a complete experience for relaxation and well-being.

  • Shopping: Due to Livigno’s unique position at 1.13 miles above sea level, the town benefits from special financial advantages. Specifically, Livigno operates without IVA (Value Added Tax), a 21% tax added to the price of most goods and services, making products like clothing, food, and equipment in local shops more affordable. 

Lake Como

Even though Lake Como is more popular in the summer for its water sports and warm weather, it still attracts many visitors in the winter thanks to its unique seasonal activities:

  • Boat Tours: One of the best ways to experience Lake Como is from the water. Rent a boat or join a guided tour to explore the stunning lakefront villages like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio surrounded by the alps and the beautiful villas.

  • Winter Hiking: Hiking around Lake Como offers a unique experience, with trails that are even more stunning when covered in snow. One popular route is the Sentiero del Viandante, which provides incredible views of the lake and mountains.

  • Visiting Villas and Gardens: Lake Como is renowned for its stunning villas and lush gardens. For example, Villa del Balbianello stands out as one of the most iconic villas on Lake Como. This historic villa has been featured in several films, including Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones and James Bond’s Casino Royale. 

Jack Fairwood, a student from North Central College, said he preferred Livigno and Lake Como over Rome and any other place he visited during his post-graduation trip to Europe. After finishing college, he traveled through several European countries, wanting to explore before starting work. Livigno and Lake Como were the final stops of his trip, but also the most memorable. He had an amazing time skiing and partying in Livigno and fell in love with the natural beauty of Lake Como. During our interview, he said:

“As college students, we have a unique window of time to travel and try new experiences - an opportunity that might not come again once work life begins.”

Jack told me that he loved everything about the area, especially the food. Even in Italy, many people tend to overlook the traditional food from my region simply because they don’t know much about it. But like every corner of the country, Livigno and Lake Como have their own unique culinary traditions that deserve more attention. That’s exactly why I think you should take the time to learn more about the local cuisine and restaurants of Livigno and Lake Como.

Conclusion

Whether you’re into history, beaches, or mountains, Italy has the perfect adventure for every college student. With authentic food, hidden gems, and unforgettable memories, your dream trip is closer than you think. Start planning your journey today!

Riccardo Piller is an international student at North Central College. Born and raised in Italy, he developed a passion for travel from his parents, who introduced him to exploring new places from a young age. He has traveled across Europe and other continents, but despite visiting many countries, he still believes Italy is the ultimate destination. Riccardo enjoys sharing authentic travel advice, helping others move beyond stereotypes and tourist traps to discover the real essence of Italy. He believes everyone should visit Italy at least once because it offers unforgettable experiences and it can change your perception of life.