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.
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!
SKIP-THE-LINE SIGHTSEEING
ROMAN GETAWAY
Explore Taste of Rome
Rome
Taste of Rome
3 Nights
Sightseeing
Breakfast daily
from
$
979
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore Around the World by Luxury Train
Vancouver to Singapore
Around the World by Luxury Train
60 Days
Luxury Rail Travel
Sightseeing
from
$
199,000
AUD
Per person share twin. Flights are additional
Europe's Hottest Picks
Trending destinations
Explore Rome, Florence & Venice by Train
Italy
Rome, Florence & Venice by Train
6 Nights
Rail Travel
Sightseeing
Contact us for the best price available
1x 3 COURSE DINNER
NATIONAL PARK ENTRANCE
Explore Taste of Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre
Taste of Cinque Terre
3 Nights
Cinque Terre Park entrance
from
$
1480
per person share twin. Flights are additional
PESTO MAKING CLASS
Explore Rome, Florence & Cinque Terre by Train
Italy
Rome, Florence & Cinque Terre by Train
8 nights
Rail travel
Sightseeing
Contact us for the best price available
GLACIER EXPRESS
VATICAN
Explore Classic Italy & the Swiss Alps by Rail
Italy & Switzerland
Classic Italy & the Swiss Alps by Rail
14 Nights
Rail Travel
Sightseeing
Contact us for the best price available
Letitia Willemse
House of Travel Browns Bay
With a tapestry of travel
experiences across Europe and beyond, I bring knowledge and passion to my role
as a Travel Consultant.
Ocean cruising and river cruising provides travellers with the opportunity to
explore the world.
Solo traveller or group ? Whether you are a solo traveller, looking to connect with others, or friends and family wanting to explore together, group travel offers a unique and rewarding way to see the world.
Travel philosophy: I believe that travel is not just about visiting new places, but about
immersing oneself in the local culture and cuisine to truly understand and
appreciate the essence of a destination.
I am dedicated to providing exceptional service and creating memorable travel
experiences for my clients.
Letitia
Rachael Singh
House of Travel Morrinsville
My love for travel started with adventures shared with family and friends which taught me the importance and significance of creating meaningful memories.
Over the years I've been lucky enough to explore vibrant cities, serene countryside along with some memorable sporting events and horse racing!
Whether you're planning a relaxing getaway, a sports adventure or a family holiday, I'm here to make your dream trip a reality. With a keen eye for detail and a love for planning, I'll work with you to create a personalised itinerary that matches your interests, pace and budget.
Every adventure requires a first step...Lets make your next adventure unforgettable!
Rachael
Bridget Hanrahan
House of Travel Prestons
Bridget has an amazing collection of knowledge from 19 years creating wonderful itineraries for all her clients. She takes the role of research very seriously from finding the finest cocktail to ensuring everyone has the best activity tips!
Her knowledge in cruising, as well as other adventure and family travel combined with her easy approachable manner takes the pain out of planning your trip of a lifetime.
"Designing unique travel experiences is my passion. My attention to detail and always looking for exclusive options ensures that all client's experiences are seamless right from the initial enquiry".
When Bridget is not pouring over brochures for inspiration, you can find her having a game of tennis, finding the next best HOT Chocolate, or spending time with her family.
Years in the industry: 19+
No. of countries visited: 25
Favourite place to visit: Africa
"Travel is the healthiest addiction" - Anonymous
Why I love travel:
For me life is about experiences, not things! I love exploring new places, cultures, environments. I see travel for me as an addiction - I just can't stay away and helping people is so rewarding.
My travel tips:
- Travel as soon as you can, don't delay as life is too short.
- If you want an adventure head to Antarctica or the Arctic before anywhere else.
- Always carry a change of clothes, any valuables and medication in your carry-on luggage. The House of Travel online brochures are a great source of information when planning your journey then we can finetune your holiday for you.
My top 5 destinations:
- Africa- Serengeti plains!!! Perfect place to go to create family memories with our young adult kids! Adventure to encounter wildlife and camping in the Serengeti!
- Dubai- the mix of culture, sights, architecture, markets, desert and the malls - even though shopping is not my thing.
- Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska - I was incredibly fortunate to have a family holiday in Canada, Alaska, Las Vegas and California and I'll never forget rafting on the Nenana River, rounding a bend to see a moose and her two calves taking a drink …. we all forgot to keep paddling; it was an incredible sight!
- Rome - the history and the chaos of a bustling city it offers so much culture with a cool vibe.
- Thailand - I lived near Chiang Mai as an exchange student many years ago and have been back to the country three times. It is great for families, couples, singles with so much to see and do.
What's in my suitcase?
- Happiness - I'm always in my happy place as soon as I travel.
- Active wear - Our holidays always include adventure and plenty of travel.
- A copy of my passport and insurance policy number and phone number, in case I lose my carryon bag and phone.
Bridget
Minji Park
House of Travel Christchurch City
Minji is our Japan specialist in Christchurch. Born and raised in South Korea, her passion for travel began at an early age. This passion led her to study tourism management and become a tour guide in both Japan and Southeast Asia.
Minji has spent most of her tour guide career in Japan, leading tours across the country and gaining an in-depth knowledge of the region. She has also guided tours in Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos, and has backpacked extensively throughout Europe, Australia, and Canada. Minji has lived in London, Vancouver, and Sydney, spending at least a couple of years in each country.
My top travel tips
- Pack as light as you can (except for cruises). Heavy luggage can be tedious to manage and exhausting just getting on/off trains.
- Try to pre-book and pay in NZ dollars. If you pay locally, you will need to pay in local currency and the banks will apply their exchange rates plus international transaction fees.
- Utilise your stopover opportunities. Two holidays, one ticket, you are basically genius.
Years in the industry: 14
No. of countries visited: 30+
Favourite place to visit: Japan
Next place on the list to visit: Safari in Africa
"Investment in travel is an investment in yourself" - Matthew Karsten
Why I love travel
I love meeting new people, discovering new cultures, tasting new food and beers and having new experiences. Travel is the best way to tick all the boxes and be inspired.
It is exciting and rewarding to help make my clients' holiday easier with better value and making it more memorable with my travel knowledge and organisation skills. I just love talking about travel, and hearing about their holiday when they return home is the best part of my job. It is very rewarding to hear what a great time they had. I am continuously learning about new travel destinations and new products and experiences so I never get bored.
My top destinations
- Japan – Japan is the country that I have travelled through the most and I can never tire of it. Japan offers so much, from old historic shrines and temples to the most modern architecture and latest technology, fascinating culture, beautiful nature areas and incredible food. It is also a very safe and easy place to travel so I recommend it for all types of travellers.
- Spain - I love the Andalusia region in particular, including Granada and Ronda. You feel like you are walking back in time, or perhaps through a movie set with the many sublime landscapes, spectacular vistas and famous historic sites. A warm evening drinking sangria with some delicious tapas over a view of Alhambra is a personal favourite.
- Vietnam - you can have an amazing experience within a very affordable budget. In one day, you will see more motorbikes than you have seen in your entire life. Interesting French Colonial architecture and indigenous castles and villages, beautiful beaches and rice paddies, the little art and culinary boutique town of Hoi An, unique and delicious food, UNESCO Heritage site Ha Long Bay and much more.
- Galapagos - If you are into wildlife, this is one of the ultimate places in the world to visit. I still say Galapagos was the best travel experience in my life. The everyday encounters with unique species of sea lions, turtles, tortoises, all different types of birds, penguins, sharks, rays, marine iguana are unforgettable. The best part for me was diving amongst schools of hammerhead sharks and eagle rays inside the crater of a submerged volcano.
What's in my suitcase
- Foldable backpack - It is the best thing ever. I always put one in my bag, and it is perfect for a casual day out exploring.
- Travel organiser bags - I have one for clothes, one for underwear/socks and one for toiletries. It will make your pack/unpack so much easier.
- Compact rain jacket and small collapsible umbrella - You will always have some rain during your holiday but unless you are expecting lots of it, you don't want these items to take too much space in your travel bag.
Minji
DID YOU KNOW?
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.
Time difference.
Italy is 10 hours behind New Zealand, so you’ll experience a substantial time difference upon arrival.
Explore The Mediterranean with Explora Journeys
The Mediterranean with Explora Journeys
Sailing with Explora Journeys through the Mediterranean blends laid-back luxury with timeless elegance. Glide along sun-drenched coastlines, from charming seaside villages to storied ancient cities, all while enjoying bespoke experiences, world-class cuisine, and curated moments of discovery. With every port, the Mediterranean reveals a new layer of culture, history, and effortless beauty—perfectly complemented by Explora’s signature style and serenity.
View Mediterranean 2026 Mar to Jun Sailings
View Mediterranean 2026 Jul to Nov Sailings
2026 Sailings
All inclusive Ultra Luxury
Flights are Additional
Cruising with
Explora Journeys
Departs 6 Jul 2026
Explore Discover the Best of the Croatian Coast
Discover the Best of the Croatian Coast
This incredible 14-night journey navigates the very best of the Croatian Coast, beginning and ending in the grand city of Venice. From secluded pebbly bays edged by majestic rocky inclines to ancient towns with narrow cobblestone streets and waterfront seafood eateries, this is a cruise of idyllic island days and a peek into Croatia’s fascinating past.
14 Night Luxury Yacht Cruise
from
$
26,850
per person share twin with Oceanview Stateroom
Flights Additional
Flights Additional
Cruising with
Emerald Yacht Cruises
Departs 15 Aug 2026
Explore The Mediterranean with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
The Mediterranean with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Discover the timeless charm of the Mediterranean with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Glide past cliff-clinging villages, historic ports, and iconic landmarks, from the blue-domed churches of Santorini to the monumental treasures of Rome and the Vatican. Aboard your luxurious superyacht, unwind as you explore charming harbours, pristine beaches, and centuries-old traditions, all with the signature comfort and service of The Ritz-Carlton experience.
2026 Sailings
Sun-drenched Rivieras
Cruising with
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Departs 4 Jul 2026
Explore Cruises from Malta
Cruises from Malta
Sailing from Valletta, Malta’s cultural gem, P&O Cruises UK takes you on an unforgettable Mediterranean journey. Explore the stunning coastlines and vibrant cultures of Italy, Greece, Croatia, France, Spain, and Turkey, where ancient ruins, charming villages, sun-kissed beaches, and delectable cuisine await.
View Cruises from Malta 2026 Sailings
View Cruises from Malta 2027 Sailings
P&O Cruises UK combines British charm with modern cruising comforts. Enjoy elegant dining, West End-style entertainment, and a warm, friendly atmosphere throughout the fleet. Whether you’re relaxing poolside, sampling afternoon tea, or catching live music under the stars, every moment at sea feels effortlessly easy and wonderfully familiar.
2026 & 2027 Sailings
Sun, History & Shores
Cruising with
P&O Cruises UK
Departs 2 Jul 2026
LAST MINUTE CRUISES
ALL INCLUSIVE LUXURY
Explore Regent Seven Seas Mediterranean Escape
Regent Seven Seas Mediterranean Escape
Cruises departing from Istanbul, Rome, and Barcelona invite travelers into a rich tapestry of cultures, coastlines, and centuries-old history. From the vibrant bazaars of Istanbul to the timeless beauty of Rome, and the colorful rhythm of Barcelona, each port offers a unique gateway to unforgettable Mediterranean journeys. Whether you're drawn to ancient ruins, sun-drenched beaches, or world-renowned cuisine, these voyages offer the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration across Southern Europe's most iconic destinations.
Captivating Canary Islands - 10 Night Onboard Seven Seas Voyager®
Lisbon – Malaga
23 Mar – 02 Apr 26
From $27, 715 per person share twin Voyager Suite
Click here to view full itinerary and pricing details
Passage to History - 14 Night Onboard Seven Seas Splendor®
Lisbon – Barcelona
27 Mar – 10 Apr 26
From $17,929 per person share twin Deluxe Veranda Suite
Click here to view full itinerary and pricing details
Pesto, Paella & Paradise - 9 Night Onboard Seven Seas Voyager®
Rome (Civitavecchia) – Barcelona (Tarragona)
17 Apr – 27 Apr 26
From $13,825 per person share twin Deluxe Veranda Suite
Click here to view full itinerary and pricing details
Journey to the Golden Horn - 14 Night Onboard Seven Seas Grandeur®
Barcelona –Istanbul
21 Apr – 05 May 26
From $15,895 per person share twin Serenity Suite
Click here to view full itinerary and pricing details
9 to 14 Night Luxury Cruise
from
$
13,825
per person share twin Deluxe Veranda Suite
Flights additional
Flights additional
Cruising with
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Departs
AMAZING SAVINGS*
Explore Greek Islands & Turkish Coastlines
Greek Islands & Turkish Coastlines
Embark on a luxurious 7-night cruise through the Greek Islands and along the coast of Turkey, setting sail from the ancient capital of Greece, Athens. Your first stop will be the sacred island of Delos, followed by the vibrant island of Mykonos, world-famous for its hedonistic lifestyle and hillside whitewashed architecture. Continue your journey to the serene island of Patmos, renowned for its religious significance and Kusadasi, gateway to ancient city of Ephesus, UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kos, an idyllic island where you can relax on pristine beaches or explore ancient ruins. Then sail to Santorini Island and admire the iconic sights and picturesque Paros, where you can wander through the island’s charming villages and enjoy the Aegean Sea’s crystal-clear waters. Finally, you’ll return to the historic city of Athens, where your unforgettable cruise concludes.
7 Night Luxury Yacht Cruise
from
$
12,655
per person share twin
Balcony Suite
Flights Additional
Balcony Suite
Flights Additional
Cruising with
Emerald Yacht Cruises
Departs 18 Jul 2026
AMAZING SAVINGS
Explore Romantic Rhine with Swiss Alps & Lake Como
Romantic Rhine with Swiss Alps & Lake Como
Sail in style on this unforgettable Avalon Waterways journey, where fairytale villages, alpine charm, and timeless romance await. Begin your journey in the heart of Italy with 3 indulgent nights in stunning Lake Como, the jewel of the Italian Lakes. From there, venture into the majestic Swiss Alps, pausing for a magical overnight in Lucerne, before boarding your Avalon Suite Ship®.
Glide along the legendary Rhine River, experiencing the storybook beauty of towns like Strasbourg, Heidelberg, Rüdesheim, and Cologne. Marvel at castles perched on cliffs, wander medieval streets, sip world-class wines, and soak in the culture that makes this region one of Europe’s most iconic.
11 Night River Cruisetour
from
$
8915
per person share twin
Deluxe Stateroom
Flights are additional
Deluxe Stateroom
Flights are additional
Cruising with
Avalon Waterways
Departs 27 Oct 2026
SAVE UP TO 20%
Explore Sweet Mediterranean Escape
Sweet Mediterranean Escape
From the Cave of the Apocalypse and the charming hilltop town of Taormina, to the archaeological treasures of Delos, the spectacular Corinth Canal, and the ancient, picturesque city of Gaeta — experience the enchanting allure of the Mediterranean!
With just 132 staterooms & suites onboard your small luxurious ship, Le Boréal perfectly blends intimate and serene spaces with areas for lively social moments.
12 Night Luxury Cruise
from
$
15,035
per person share twin
Lower Deck Balcony
Flights are additional
Lower Deck Balcony
Flights are additional
Cruising with
Ponant Explorations
Departs 17 Jul 2026
Explore Mediterranean Icons
Mediterranean Icons
Set sail on an unforgettable 14-night Mediterranean adventure with Celestyal Cruises. Departing from Athens, these curated itineraries blend history, culture and stunning coastlines. Discover iconic destinations including Venice, Dubrovnik, Crete and Kusadasi, with overnight stays in Santorini and Mykonos to soak up the local charm.
View Mediterranean Icons 2026 Sailings
Enjoy ultimate value with Celestyal One fares which include complimentary WiFi, meals and soft drinks throughout the day - amenities that are always included. For beverages from the bar and specialty dining there is CelestyalPay, your dedicated food and drink tab when you're onboard. Plus, when you pre-pay you'll get an extra bonus on Celestyal!
2026 Sailings
Fantastic Value
Flights are additional
Cruising with
Celestyal Cruises
Departs 29 Aug 2026
Explore Europe with Virgin Voyages
Europe with Virgin Voyages
Wander your way through Europe with Virgin Voyages, where every port tells a different story. From the sun-soaked coastlines of Greece and Croatia to the cobbled streets of Belgium and the cultural gems of Spain, this is a continent made for slow mornings and late-night strolls. Cruise past Norway’s dramatic fjords, sip sangria in Valencia, or lose yourself in the art and architecture of Florence. With stops that span seaside villages, iconic capitals, and off-the-map treasures, these sailings serve up Europe’s greatest hits—with a few unexpected tracks along the way.
View Europe 2026 May to Oct Sailings
Step aboard Virgin Voyages and discover a cruise experience that’s refreshingly different. With over 20+ eateries included, Michelin-inspired menus, boundary-pushing entertainment, and adults-only spaces throughout, life on board is anything but ordinary. Expect elevated design, wellness at your pace, and a cheeky dose of fun from a crew that knows how to keep things light and lively.
2026 Sailings
Onboard Scarlet Lady or Resilient Lady
Wander the Wonders of Europe
Flights are additional
Cruising with
Virgin Voyages
Departs 4 Jul 2026
AMAZING SAVINGS*
Explore Malta, Sicily & Amalfi Coast
Malta, Sicily & Amalfi Coast
Set sail on an unforgettable 9-Night cruise through the treasures of the Mediterranean, starting in Italy, at the seaport of Civitavecchia – gateway to Rome, the ‘Eternal City’. Immerse yourself in ancient times at the archaeological sites in Gaeta and discover the beauty of the legendary island of Capri and incredible vistas of the Bay of Naples from Sorrento. Soak up rich history along the picturesque streets of Amalfi, relax on the pristine beaches of Lapari and explore the charming town of Giardini Naxos on the stunning island of Sicily. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, historical wonders, or cultural immersions, this luxury cruise offers something for everyone.
9 Night Luxury Yacht Cruise
from
$
17,045
per person share twin
Balcony Stateroom
Flights Additional
Balcony Stateroom
Flights Additional
Cruising with
Emerald Yacht Cruises
Departs 30 Jul 2026
AVAILABLE IN 2025
ENJOY 80% OFF
Explore Virgin Voyages Europe Sailings for 2025
Virgin Voyages Europe Sailings for 2025
Virgin Voyages offers escape at sea, designed exclusively for adults looking to relax, rejuvenate, and explore in style.
Embark on a Mediterranean adventure from vibrant homeports in Barcelona, Spain, and Piraeus (Athens), Greece. Set sail between the iconic islands of Santorini and Mykonos, uncover the beauty of Croatia’s breathtaking coastline, or enjoy a glass of Chianti as you wander through the charming cobbled streets of Italy.
Scarlet Lady, 30 August 2025, 6 Nights, A Taste of Spain & Bordeaux, roundtrip from the UK
Portsmouth, La Coruna, Bilbao, La Verdon (Bordeaux), Portsmouth
FREE BAR TAB WORTH US$200 PER ROOM
From $1960 per person share twin
Click here for full itinerary and pricing details
Scarlet Lady, 18 May 2025, 7 Nights, Palma & Ibiza
Barcelona, Cannes, Ajaccio (Corsica), Palma de Mallorca, Ibiza (overnight), Barcelona
80% Off your 2nd sailor plus FREE BAR TAB WORTH US$200 PER ROOM
From NZ$2543 per person share twin
Click here for full itinerary and pricing details
Resilient Lady, 27 July 2025, 7 Nights Greece, Croatia & Montenegro
Athens, Kotor (Montenegro), Dubrovnik, Corfu, Mykonos, Athens
80% Off your 2nd sailor plus FREE BAR TAB WORTH US$200 PER ROOM
From NZ$2542 per person share twin
Click here for full itinerary and pricing details
Resilient Lady, 08 June 2025, 7 Nights, Greek Islands and Turkiye
Athens, Santorini, Rhodes, Bodrum, Mykonos (overnight), Athens
80% Off your 2nd sailor & FREE BAR TAB WORTH US$200 PER ROOM
From NZ$3052 per person share twin
Click here for full itinerary and pricing details
Scarlet Lady, 12 September 2025, 13 Nights, Spain, Portugal & Morocco
Portsmouth, La Coruna Lisbon (overnight), Casablanca, Malaga, Ibiza (overnight), Barcelona
80% Off your 2nd sailor plus FREE BAR TAB WORTH US$300 PER ROOM
From NZ$2860 per person share twin
Click here for full itinerary and pricing details
Sailing across Europe
from
$
1960
Cruising with
Virgin Voyages
Departs
Our favourite things to do in Italy
See Rome or Tuscany on a vespa
Want to explore Rome like a local?
Learn to cook (and eat) like an Italian!
Go for an Italian Cooking class when in Italy!
Attend pizzafest in Naples
If you're borderline addicted to pizza, you're not alone.
Start your day with breakfast at the Vatican
Treat yourself to a VIP experience in Rome!
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.
Live like a local and hire a villa in Tuscany
One of the best experiences in Tuscany is to stay in a villa.
Try the best basil pesto
Explore the stunning villages of Cinque Terre and taste the best basil pesto!
Visit the outer Venetian islands
No trip to Venice is complete without a visit to its prized islands—Murano and Burano.
Hiking the Amalfi Coast
For something active and different - go for this popular hike on the Amalfi Coast!
93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5
"I have worked with Maxine for a number of years, and she has consistently been helpful in providing a range of flight options. She always takes the time to find the best deals to suit our needs and makes the booking process straightforward and stress-free. I would highly recommend Maxine to friends and family and appreciate her excellent service and attention to detail."
Jason and Niki"Gave options, was quick and efficient."
Edward"She was fast in putting a quote together - same day we spoke about it. She had 3 strong options for me all within budget and to the brief I had explained. Everything was confirmed within the week for a very short turnaround holiday in a place with limited accomodation due to how last minute the trip was. I definitely recommend working with Jaz, this is the second holiday she has booked for us and won't be the last!"
JessicaOur Italy travel blogs
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