*Written in collaboration with Emily Jones.

Saving up money and sorting out the finances can be quite challenging, so holidays aren’t always ‘practical’ from a budget standpoint. However, going on holiday with family is so worth investing in, as you get quality time in and the opportunity to create truly special memories. That’s why this year, Mikey and I decided that a family holiday is a necessity. When I was dreaming up ideas of where we should go, a destination that kept coming to mind is Italy. Italy has always been on the bucket list and yes.. it is possible to do it on a budget!

So I’m here to share with you some ideas on how to visit Italy on a budget, as well as some budget-friendly destinations.

Tips for visiting Italy on a budget

Things to do to control expenses:

Travel during low season

It’s no secret that travelling during high season comes with a higher price tag. When it comes to plane tickets, accommodation, eating out, etc., visiting Italy between June-September absolutely means higher prices! Luckily, Italy is gorgeous year round and if you travel during low season, you can save a significant amount of money, be around fewer crowds and even be there during more comfortable temperatures.

Rent a private home

Accommodation is the second largest expense that can quickly add up while on holiday. It is actually quite common and affordable in Italy to rent a private home instead of staying in a hotel. For example in Sicily, villa rentals like the ones you can find on platforms like Wishsicily are very common and are often times locally owned, more homey, and way more affordable. Not only will this help you save money, it will also allow you to stay together all in one home rather than paying for separate rooms, cook within the comfort of your own home (and save money this way too!), and have more privacy to truly slip into holiday mode.

Use public transportation

Public transportation can really help to cut down on costs (and stress) while travelling in Italy. It is recommended to do some planning ahead depending on whether you are looking to get point-to-point tickets for the bus or for the train. The buses are generally less expensive, but can be more challenging! Between the major cities, there is a fast train that can help you make the most of your time and budget while there.

Budget-friendly destinations

Le Marche

The Le Marche region of Italy is a neighbour to Tuscany that is also gorgeous, yet far less expensive. You can still get the country views, medieval towns, wonderful cuisine and beaches, but it comes with a certain kind of charm that only this region carries.

Sicily

Sicily is unlike any other place in Italy. It has a particularly unique and rich culture, history, and cuisine, as well as many UNESCO World Heritage sites scattered across the island. The best prices in Sicily will generally be found in western Sicily.

Puglia

Puglia is a region in southern Italy that was more of a well-kept secret amongst the tourism industry for some years. The beaches are gorgeous, the water is transparent and warmer, and it is more affordable.

Italy is a destination that makes it on so many people’s bucket lists. Luckily, it is more than possible to visit this beautiful country without spending a fortune!