Navigation
Back

Italy

La Dolce Vita, living the sweet life!

Venice

A land of timeless art, culinary delights, and scenic beauty

Ciao! Passion seeps into all aspects of life here – you can hear it in the opera, taste it in lovingly prepared pasta, and see it in action as the Italians promenade across their piazzas, talking loudly and proudly with their hands. In Rome and Milan, life zooms by on Vespas, while Venice and Florence dazzle with their unique charms. In the countryside, things slow down - ideal for savoring wine, long lunches, and sunflower fields. Enjoy Tuscany’s scenic hills, historic Pompeii, and pastel coastal villages. On the coast, villages washed in pastel colours cling to cliffs; and in the Italian Alps, elegant villas overlook tranquil lakes. No wonder Italy was home to so many inspired painters and composers.

Chat to our Italy travel specialists and let’s start planning your belissimo holiday today!

Unlock all our UK & Europe Experiences

Meet our Italy specialists

See all See more
Stephanie Towers

Stephanie Towers

House of Travel Mount Maunganui

Having been born into an aviation family, I was always destined to become a passionate traveller, and have a lifelong fascination for aviation, airports, and exploring new destinations. 

Travel is in my blood, and my love for my job shines through, going above and beyond for my clients to ensure their needs are met with warmth, kindness, and an attentive ear. 

With a diverse background in the travel industry, my vast experience started with corporate travel for blue chip New Zealand companies, followed by a never-ending OE in London and Sydney in the Music & Film industry looking after global superstars and celebrities. Now back home in the Bay, I’m helping travellers with their holidays, corporate customers heading away for business, and specialising in group travel - whether travelling for sports, education, weddings, conferences, or events. I’m experienced in catering to a wide range of travel preferences and needs.

Whether you're planning a budget-friendly adventure or a luxurious getaway, I’ve tried it all, from economy to first class, I’ve even chartered private jets! I have great first-hand knowledge and I’m eager to share it with you to create a trip full of unforgettable experiences for you.

Stephanie
Carmel Layton

Carmel Layton

House of Travel Nelson

Hi, I’m Carmel Layton. Travel has been a huge part of my life from my first trip overseas as a 6 year old to travelling independently in my twenties and I have travelled to over 72 countries around the world, it has always been a key ingredient in my life.

I am an experienced and passionate travel professional with over 15 years in the industry. From a short South Pacific getaway to a trip around the globe, I look forward to helping you realise your travel dreams.

Carmel
Lisa Cooper

Lisa Cooper

House of Travel Rangiora

My passions are travel & people which is why I love what I do! I love to share in the excitement of your travel planning and help create your dream holiday! I also understand there is not a one size fits all for travel and will ensure your holiday is individualised to you!

I've been lucky enough to visit so many amazing countries of the world and I would love to help you do the same whether it is a family trip to Aussie, a river cruise in Europe, relaxing Island getaway or an adventurous safari in Africa. 

My office hours are: Monday, Wednesday & Friday 9am -3pm

Lisa

Olivia Whiteside Jenkins

Olivia Whiteside Jenkins

House of Travel Riccarton

For as long as I can remember, travel has always been a huge part of my life. I grew up travelling multiple times a year, so it's no surprise I chose a career in the travel industry to carry this on in my adult life! 

My love of travelling and experiencing different cultures is what drives me to create bespoke travel itineraries for all of my clients. I truly believe that travel sparks our imagination, feeds our curiosity, and reminds us how much we all have in common.

I have explored various parts of the world along with our own backyard and will continue to do this to not only fulfil my desire to travel more but also to advance my knowledge of locations that may be of interest to my clients. 

Excelling your needs, wants and expectations before, during and after travel is my main priority. I would love to create a truly amazing trip and memories that will last you a lifetime!  

Olivia

DID YOU KNOW?

Plane Stabiliser Icon

Flight time.

Flying from Auckland to Italy usually takes around 24 hours, including a stopover. The journey is long, but the art, culture, and cuisine of Italy await you.

Calendar Icon

Best time to go.

The best times to visit Italy are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These seasons offer mild weather, fewer tourists, and the chance to see Italy at its most beautiful.

Watch Icon

Time difference.

Italy is 10 hours behind New Zealand, so you’ll experience a substantial time difference upon arrival.

Our favourite things to do in Italy

Vespa

See Rome or Tuscany on a vespa

Want to explore Rome like a local?

Read more
Ravioli Pasta

Learn to cook (and eat) like an Italian!

Go for an Italian Cooking class when in Italy!

Read more
Pizza

Attend pizzafest in Naples

If you're borderline addicted to pizza, you're not alone.

Read more
Vatican

Start your day with breakfast at the Vatican

Treat yourself to a VIP experience in Rome!

Read more
Markets

Head to the markets

Experience Rome's oldest market at the Campo dei Fiori, which serves up fresh seafood, vegetables, fruit, spices and homewares daily from Monday to Saturday.

Read more
Tuscany

Live like a local and hire a villa in Tuscany

One of the best experiences in Tuscany is to stay in a villa.

Read more
View of Cinque Terre

Try the best basil pesto

Explore the stunning villages of Cinque Terre and taste the best basil pesto!

Read more
Burano

Visit the outer Venetian islands

No trip to Venice is complete without a visit to its prized islands—Murano and Burano.

Read more
Amalfi Coast

Hiking the Amalfi Coast

For something active and different - go for this popular hike on the Amalfi Coast!

Read more

93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5

"Prompt service, sound advice, efficient"

Simon

"Good communication skills, quick replies, lots of different options"

Naeve Eilish

"Kim, very friendly and listened to our holiday requirements, good communication liaising with holiday resort regarding dietary requirements."

Susan

Our Italy travel blogs

Customer holidays snaps

Best. Italy Holidays. Ever!

Follow us!
Subscribe

Want the insider word on all things travel?

Sign up below and be the first to hear about out hottest holiday deals, flights steals, and essential travel hints and tips from out team of travel specialists.

Best. Holidays. Ever!

Start here

Let us help you find the perfect holiday or deal. 
Here’s how to get in touch...

Consultant Consultant Consultant

Experience all things Italy