Italy is a dream destination for all travelers, but in many ways it holds a particularly special allure for women. Whether you're a woman exploring on your own, with a group of friends, or through a curated tour, the options for unique and enriching experiences in Italy are endless. Susan Van Allen, author and founder of Susan Van Allen's Italy, has dedicated her career to showcasing the best of Italy through the lens of "Italian travel for women." Her Golden Week tours offer immersive and luxurious experiences that cater specifically to Italian Travel for Women, focusing on culture, history, cuisine, and connections.
Why Italy is Perfect for Italian Travel for Women
Italy offers something for every traveler: historic cities, tranquil countryside, stunning beaches, and culinary delights. From the vineyards of Tuscany to the cobblestone streets of Rome, there is no shortage of activities for women travelers looking to explore, connect, and indulge. Here are just a few highlights:
- Cultural Immersion: Italy is a country steeped in history and art. Imagine visiting hidden gems like Palazzo Colonna in Rome, open only on Saturday mornings, where you can admire dazzling rooms and learn about women’s contributions to the history of this grand estate.
- Artisan Shopping: Florence offers incredible opportunities to meet female artisans, from ceramic workshops like Spigole Terracotte to jewelry designer Angela Caputi’s studio. These encounters turn shopping into a cultural experience, where you learn about centuries-old traditions.
- Food and Wine: Women travelers can savor Italy’s culinary treasures, from fresh seafood at Fiumicino’s vibrant fish markets to exclusive cooking classes, like those offered in Liguria focusing on local specialties like focaccia.
Unique Tours Tailored for Women
Susan Van Allen’s Italian Travel for Women tours are an excellent choice for women looking to experience Italy in a meaningful and luxurious way. Her Golden Week tours cater to small groups of up to 16 women, creating an intimate and familial atmosphere. Each tour is carefully designed to combine Italy’s iconic landmarks with hidden treasures and cultural immersion.
Popular Tours Include:
- The Italian Riviera and Florence: This 10-day tour includes stays in 4- and 5-star hotels, exclusive cooking classes, and private tours. Guests visit Chiavari’s scenic hills for a hands-on focaccia-making experience and explore Florence’s artisan shops and historic sites.
- Sicily and Southern Italy: Dive into the vibrant culture and history of Sicily, where guides discuss the role of women in the region’s history and traditions. Guests also explore beautiful ruins like Oplontis near Pompeii, believed to be Nero’s wife’s villa.
- Venice and the Veneto: Discover Venice’s Palazzo Mocenigo, a museum featuring 18th-century opulence and a fascinating perfume exhibit. Extend your trip to the Veneto region to visit Padua, Vicenza, and Verona.
Italian Travel for Women Traveling Solo
Traveling solo can be an empowering experience, and Italy is a fantastic destination for women adventurers. Susan’s tours offer a safe and supportive environment, making them perfect for solo travelers. Many women on these tours form lasting friendships and even find future travel companions. For those embarking on their first trip without a partner, these tours can also provide a healing and enriching experience.
Hidden Gems for Women Travelers
Susan’s book, A Hundred Places in Italy Every Woman Should Go, offers a treasure trove of inspiration for women exploring Italy. Here are a few highlights:
- Sperlonga (Lazio): This charming coastal town combines beautiful beaches with fascinating history. Visit the archaeological museum and Villa of Tiberius, where you can stroll barefoot along the beach before stepping into a museum housing incredible ancient statues.
- Prato (Tuscany): Just a short train ride from Florence, Prato offers a chance to see Mary’s sacred girdle at the Duomo and admire stunning frescoes by Lippi. Don’t miss sampling the town’s famous biscotti.
- Palazzo Davanzati (Florence): This unique museum showcases a blend of medieval and Renaissance home life, complete with kitchens, frescoed bedrooms, and even ancient toilets—a fascinating glimpse into daily life of the past.
Why Choose a Women-Only Tour?
Women-only tours provide a unique sense of camaraderie and connection. Participants often share common interests and life stages, making it easy to bond. Many women enjoy the freedom to focus on themselves and their interests without distractions. From solo travelers to women celebrating milestones, these tours offer a chance to create unforgettable memories.
Planning Your Italian Adventure
Susan Van Allen’s Golden Week tours combine luxury with cultural immersion, making them ideal for women seeking a deeper connection with Italy. While these tours are an investment, they deliver a curated experience that blends relaxation with discovery. With accommodations in top-tier hotels, exclusive access to guides and artisans, and a focus on authentic Italian experiences, participants can truly immerse themselves in the beauty and culture of Italy.
How to Get Involved
Interested in joining a tour? Susan works with Perillo’s Italy Vacations to design these incredible trips. For more information, visit her website or contact her via email. Whether you’re looking to explore Italy solo, celebrate a milestone, or simply enjoy a luxurious escape, Italian travel for women offers an unparalleled journey filled with beauty, culture, and connection.
Special Tours with me, Flavor of Italy!
Culinary Walking Tour of Rome
3 Suggested Day Trips from Rome: Best of Bologna, Montalcino & Brunello Wine, or Naples in a Day.
Please leave your comment here. Your feedback is important!