Thank you
The page has been shared
On a map, Southern Italy certainly forms the “boot” that shapes Italy — but there’s far more to this region than meets the eye. Join us as we explore Puglia, Basilicata and Calabria and truly explore Italy from “heel” to “toe,” or improve your cooking skills in the heart of Sicily. You can even journey through the region during the winter when the weather is still mild and there are fewer crowds to learn what local life is truly like in Taormina. Whatever you choose, you’ll experience a region of Italy that is often less explored — meaning there is plenty of room for new discoveries to be made!
When we think of a Southern Italy vacation, we think of fresh pecorino cheese, world-famous pizzas, delicious chiantis, rich olive oils and fairytale towns sitting on the edge of cliffs overlooking the sea.
Italy happens to be Road Scholar’s 2023 Campus of the Year, which means we have curated excellent Southern Italy tours for travelers of all ages. This country has it all — a friendly culture, delicious cuisine, stunning landscapes and historical treasures.
The regions that comprise Southern Italy are Abruzzo, Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, Molise, Puglia and the two islands of Sardinia and Sicily. From stunning cliffs and white sand beaches to homemade pasta and world-class shopping, Southern Italy is a traveler’s paradise.
Italy’s style and charm will capture your heart and leave memories that will last a lifetime. Road Scholar has the best Southern Italy itineraries and tips for you.
Did you know that Sardinia is one of the world’s five Blue Zones, where residents live the longest? Did you know that pizza was invented in Naples? This country is filled with delightful surprises to the senses at every turn. Road Scholar has many tours of Southern Italy and Sicily, and here are a few of our favorites.
Sicily is the island at the bottom of the boot that is great to visit in the winter months. Sicily’s location on the Mediterranean Sea gives it a romance and relaxation second to none.
Road Scholar has curated a wonderful eight-day journey through Sicily and Taormina to explore these historic regions of Italy during the quieter months.
Travelers will learn how the Byzantines, Greeks, Romans and others influenced Sicilian life through the years. Enjoy the adventure with a ride along the Circumetnea Railway around the base of Mount Etna to learn about one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Sample ricotta cheese at a local family run caseificio and enjoy a full Sicilian lunch. Arrivederci in Italy!
Enjoy sightseeing and discovering artifacts and megaliths from ancient civilizations, or relax on the beach and swim in the Mediterranean. This 11-day Road Scholar trip will take travelers to ancient worlds, archeological sites, and coastal beaches along the Costa Smeralda.
Tour the Phoenician-Roman coastal settlements and the unique megalithic architecture of the Nuragic civilization. Relax and enjoy a boat excursion through the small islands of La Maddalena Archipelago — Bargi, Budelli, and Razzoli. Adventure awaits you on a Southern Italy vacation!
At Road Scholar, we have a wide range of Northern and Southern Italy tours from which to choose, whether you are traveling solo or as a group. No matter which educational learning adventure you choose, you'll be placed in a cohort of like-minded adventurers.
Our programs are led by local experts who will walk you through your destination's history, culture, traditions and landscape. We also have a collection of online tours of Italy that are very popular.
Enroll in one of our Road Scholar tours today.