Kimkim Trip Reviews for Italy

4.8
Based on 1,337 ratings
Read 1,337 verified reviews by travelers who booked their trip to Italy on kimkim. You can also read reviews about kimkim on 3rd party sites including Google, TrustPilot and Yelp.

Marianna took our visions for our dream Itali...
Italy | Jul 26 - Aug 10, 2026

Heather
Heather K.
Minneapolis, MN | Reviewed on Aug 17, 2026
Marianna took our visions for our dream Italian vacation and made them a reality. No detail was left out. Everything she promised, came through. I would highly recommend KimKim and Marianna! We are already looking at booking another vacation and Marianna will be the first person I reach out to!
Thank you for making our 35th Anniversary vacation become a reality!
Read more

Marianna took our visions for our dream Italian vacation and made them a reality. No detail was left out. Everything she promised, came through. I would highly recommend KimKim and Marianna! We are already looking at booking another vacation and Marianna will be the first person I reach out to!
Thank you for making our 35th Anniversary vacation become a reality!

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Dei Dragomanni
Venice
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel The Square Milano Duomo
Milan
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
NH La Spezia
La Spezia

Amazing! I only wish there was a pool!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Dei Mellini
Rome
Grand Hotel De La Ville
Sorrento

Rooms were clean and very nice. We wished the pool was open a bit later. Otherwise, I would stay here again. Staff was very friendly!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Basic Rome Tour with Pizza and Gelato by Electric Golf Cart
Basic Rome Tour with Pizza and Gelato by Electric Golf Cart
Rome

The golf cart tour is a must. I do wish we would have had more time to spend at the Colosseum .

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica
Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica
Rome

This was amazing even though there were quite few people visiting that day and Rome was in record high temperatures.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Essential Tour Of Venice
Essential Tour Of Venice
Venice

Our tour was for St Marks Basilica and the Doge's Palace and we were only able to do the Palace. That was very disappointing.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Bernina Express From Milan
Full Day Bernina Express From Milan
Milan

This was unbelievable! A must do! We are planning a trip to Switzerland to see more.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Lake Como & Bellagio Day Tour From Milan
Lake Como & Bellagio Day Tour From Milan
Milan

Top 3 experiences. Our Guide, Renzo was amazing!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tour To Capri From Sorrento
Tour To Capri From Sorrento
Italy

Top 3 experiences of the trip!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Tour Τo Positano, Amalfi & Ravello From Sorrento
Full Day Tour Τo Positano, Amalfi & Ravello From Sorrento
Italy

I wish we would have done the boat tour. We felt a bit rushed during this tour. Our guide was friendly and the area was amazing!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Marianna Loupou
Marianna
Marianna Loupou
Local specialist in Athens | Replied on Sep 30, 2026

Thank you so much for your incredibly kind words! It truly means so much to me to know that your 35th Anniversary trip was everything you had hoped for and that you felt well taken care of throughout your journey.

It was such a pleasure bringing your vision to life, and I’m so grateful you trusted me with such a special celebration.

Wishing you all many more wonderful years together and many more beautiful travels ahead! ❤️

Warmly,
Marianna

Leslie and KimKim: Exceptional, Responsive, Professionals!
Italy | Aug 3 - Aug 13, 2026

D
deborah b.
Boston, MA | Reviewed on Aug 16, 2026
Our trip was planned flawlessly by Leslie at KimKim! Can’t say enough how incredible the trip was and how every place, guide, and tour were wonderful - - - even in 100 degree heat! Venice:
Our guide Sara was so warm, informative and loved her City. We learned so much about the history, saw the basilica, and went on a gondola ride. So lovely. Our hotel was fabulous and we made friends with the staff.
Florence:
Our guide Marco was charming and knowledgeable. We did some wine...
Read more

Our trip was planned flawlessly by Leslie at KimKim! Can’t say enough how incredible the trip was and how every place, guide, and tour were wonderful - - - even in 100 degree heat!

Venice:
Our guide Sara was so warm, informative and loved her City. We learned so much about the history, saw the basilica, and went on a gondola ride. So lovely. Our hotel was fabulous and we made friends with the staff.

Florence:
Our guide Marco was charming and knowledgeable. We did some wine tasting, visited sites and were again spoiled at our hotel.

Rome:
Once again our guide and hotel were memorable. Our guide did her best to help us be more comfortable in the extreme heat, while we learned about our host city. We visited the Collisium and the Vatican; both left us speechless in their beauty.

Amalfi Coast:
We had a full day boat ride. The Captain and Marta were the perfect hosts who love their professions! We were shown the Blue Grotto, Mt Vesuvius, Capri, and the Sorrento coastline. We swam in the sapphire blue water, had a delicious Italian lunch and learned about the locations history. Our hotel was on the water and we got to relax a couple days and even got to see the Solar Eclipse!

I’m really not able to do the trip enough justice. Every guide, tour, ride, etc. was on time and high quality. Each hotel had a great location and was 4 - 5 stars. The memories my kids, grandkids and friend made together will last a lifetime. Can’t thank Leslie enough for her careful planning, availability, and kindness.

Local specialist: Leslie Tranchina
Leslie
Leslie Tranchina
Local specialist in Bologna | Replied on Aug 19, 2026
Thank you so much for this incredibly thoughtful review. Reading your words truly means more to me than I can say. Knowing that the journey came together in a way that allowed you, your children, grandchildren, and friend to simply enjoy being together and create memories that will stay with you for years is exactly what we hope for when we design a trip like this. I’m especially happy to hear that you felt so well cared for throughout your travels. Behind every itinerary is a wonderful... Read more

Thank you so much for this incredibly thoughtful review. Reading your words truly means more to me than I can say.

Knowing that the journey came together in a way that allowed you, your children, grandchildren, and friend to simply enjoy being together and create memories that will stay with you for years is exactly what we hope for when we design a trip like this.

I’m especially happy to hear that you felt so well cared for throughout your travels. Behind every itinerary is a wonderful team of guides, drivers, local partners, and hotel staff, and I know they will all be so touched to hear how much you appreciated their warmth, professionalism, and passion — even while navigating that incredible Italian summer heat!

It was genuinely a pleasure for me to plan this journey with you and to be there along the way. Thank you for trusting me with such a special family experience and for taking the time to share these beautiful words.

From me and the entire team here in Italy, thank you. We loved having you here, and we hope these memories bring smiles to your family for a very long time.

A big hug from Italy,

Leslie & the Storywalking Team

We took a 30-day trip to Italy in May. Starti...
Italy | May 15 - Jun 13, 2026

Nicholle
Nicholle G.
Flagami, FL | Reviewed on Aug 15, 2026
We took a 30-day trip to Italy in May. Starting in Venice and ending in Catania. From the initial planning - more than 6 months in advance I knew we were in good hands with Marina. For one week, my husband and son traveled with us, but the remainder of the trip it was just me and our 3 girls. It was important to me that things were as seamless/safe as possible and I hoped to not stress about our exchanges/transfers/reservations. It was worth every penny having Marina and her team take care of... Read more

We took a 30-day trip to Italy in May. Starting in Venice and ending in Catania. From the initial planning - more than 6 months in advance I knew we were in good hands with Marina. For one week, my husband and son traveled with us, but the remainder of the trip it was just me and our 3 girls. It was important to me that things were as seamless/safe as possible and I hoped to not stress about our exchanges/transfers/reservations. It was worth every penny having Marina and her team take care of us. I never felt alone - we had a couple hiccups and I just reached out to the team and they helped us or handled things for us.

We wanted the trip to focus on history and special outings for us and not just seeing crowded tourist sights. Marina really listened to what we wanted and suggested several things I would never have known about. The hotels were all lovely - amazing locations and exceeded our expectations. The app and daily notes and recommendations came in handy too.

There were several times the travel team arranged for little extras for our family - like a delicious birthday cake delivered to our hotel for our daughter’s 21st birthday.

Truly an experience we will remember forever.

Our favorites:
Capri and our private guide was worth the splurge!!
My favorite - the hotel in Agrigento and the location and apartment in Florence and the team being available to help when fun travel things come up - like train strikes.
Husband - wind surfing on Lake Garda and Venice
18 year old daughter - visiting churches in Venice
13 year old daughter- the food. All of the food and wind surfing
21 year old daughter - hiking around Lake Garda and the Agrigento hotel
23 years old son - Lake Garda and wandering around Venice

Thank you so much for all the attention and planning that went into our trip

Hotel Reviews
Habitat Boutique Hotel
Catania

Despite the construction on the street in front of the hotel - this hotel exceeded all of our expectations. The staff was wonderful and had the best recommendations. We loved our rooms too.

Authenticity & Character
Very unique hotel. Loved
Location
Great location for walking and felt so safe walking around late. We had a lot of fun in this area.
Staff
Everyone. Sooooo helpful and friendly.
Cleanliness & Comfort
So comfortable. We were at the end of a 30 day trip and felt at home
Hotel baglio della Luna
Valle dei Templi, Agrigento

The best stay of our trip. It felt like we were in our own little luxury villa. The staff went above and beyond. Dinner outdoors over looking the Valley of the Temples - we ate here every night. So special. At this point in our trip we needed to rest and recharge - it was perfect. Excellent recommendations from the staff. Only a small number of rooms so it felt like it was just the 4 sometimes

Authenticity & Character
The gardens - beautiful. So many places to sit, read, have a glass of wine
Location
This location - a little bit of heaven
Staff
Charming. Helpful. Kind. Everyone - from breakfast and check in to drinks in the bar and the staff who kept our rooms tidy
Cleanliness & Comfort
Attention to details - just lovely.
Hotel Politeama
Palermo
Authenticity & Character
Location
Thankful for Valet!
Staff
Helpful and calming. I was a bit anxious from driving - but they were very welcoming
Cleanliness & Comfort
Small rooms, but comfortable!
Palazzo Caracciolo Napoli - MGallery
Naples

Just a lovely and beautiful hotel. Wonderful staff. Very helpful and great with recommendations - we chose to walk from the train station and that was not a wise decision. (Our travel agent suggested a private transfer - and we should have listened).

Authenticity & Character
It feels very special. Unique. The rooms were large and very nice.
Authenticity & Character
It feels very special. Unique. The rooms were large and very nice.
Location
You just have to be more aware of your surroundings and not go exploring in part of the area across from the hotel. Once the hotel gave us suggestions - we were fine!! And the taxi service they suggested was perfect
Location
You just have to be more aware of your surroundings and not go exploring in part of the area across from the hotel. Once the hotel gave us suggestions - we were fine!! And the taxi service they suggested was perfect
Staff
Very nice - great recommendations
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beds were very comfortable. Rooms were quiet. So nice.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beds were very comfortable. Rooms were quiet. So nice.
Hotel della Torre Argentina
Rome

The rooms and breakfast were lovely. The location was great for all we wanted to do.

Authenticity & Character
Location
The location was great - the bus stops right in front of the doors and that makes it difficult to get in and out sometimes.
Staff
The front desk staff were not as warm as all of the other places we stayed. The breakfast staff was lovely.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Nice rooms - we enjoyed and slept well
Del Guanto Apartment by Mamo Florence
Florence

We loved this apartment. The location was perfect for all the things we wanted to do and see. The rooftop patio was lovely.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
The couch seemed to be missing pillows.
Hotel Lago di Garda Torbole
Torbole sul Garda

Hotel location is amazing. Breakfast delicious. The rooms needed refreshing - linens thin and the sheets had holes. Walls needed painting. Mold in shower - the hotel did fix this as soon as our travel agent let them know.

Authenticity & Character
The rooms felt very basic and cheap.
Authenticity & Character
The rooms felt very basic and cheap.
Location
Gorgeous. Gorgeous location.
Location
Gorgeous. Gorgeous location.
Staff
We let the front desk know we had a package coming and it was important - they refused delivery of it. It had $37 due upon receipt - we were not aware at the time. The hotel did not contact us while we were out on a hike. We had to get a private car to go pick up the package. We missed one of our planned activities and had to pay $150 for the private car. It was more the time we lost as a family together that bothered us. And that the hotel didn’t try to fix it. It was only $37 - we had 3 rooms for 4 nights. They were nice - just wish they had contacted us or paid for the package - which they had our credit card information- they could have handled it differently
Staff
We let the front desk know we had a package coming and it was important - they refused delivery of it. It had $37 due upon receipt - we were not aware at the time. The hotel did not contact us while we were out on a hike. We had to get a private car to go pick up the package. We missed one of our planned activities and had to pay $150 for the private car. It was more the time we lost as a family together that bothered us. And that the hotel didn’t try to fix it. It was only $37 - we had 3 rooms for 4 nights. They were nice - just wish they had contacted us or paid for the package - which they had our credit card information- they could have handled it differently
Cleanliness & Comfort
There was mold in our shower - the hotel did paint over it as soon as notified. The sheets were very thin and had multiple holes in them. The walls throughout the lodging part of the hotel were scratched and needed repair. It was clean - just seemed that no upkeep was happening once you got upstairs to the rooms.
Cleanliness & Comfort
There was mold in our shower - the hotel did paint over it as soon as notified. The sheets were very thin and had multiple holes in them. The walls throughout the lodging part of the hotel were scratched and needed repair. It was clean - just seemed that no upkeep was happening once you got upstairs to the rooms.
Hotel Olimpia
Venice

The staff was so lovely. The rooms were beautiful. We loved the location - not in the busy area and gave us a chance to wander. Breakfast was delicious.

Authenticity & Character
So cute. Unique.
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Explore Mt Etna:  Volcano Hike & Lava Cave
Explore Mt Etna: Volcano Hike & Lava Cave
Catania

Salvatore was an amazing tour guide! We had an excellent day. Mt Etna was wonderful. The wine tasting was ok.

Quality of Experience
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Salvatore - so kind, interacted with everyone. Excellent information
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Salvatore - so kind, interacted with everyone. Excellent information
Transport
Transport
The Pearl of the Mediterranean: A Day on Capri Island & Anacapri
The Pearl of the Mediterranean: A Day on Capri Island & Anacapri
Italy

Our guide, Lucia, was the best. The day started out with a major glitch, but Lucia calmed us all down and set the perfect tone for the day. It was the best having our own guide - it was special. She asked us what was our goal - I said to see Capri but not with all the crowds - she delivered ! We felt like we hit everything. The cloud covered mountain top and chair lift was soooo cool. Her food recommendations were perfect We loved the knowledge and the history she shared with us. Perfect day. So nice to have the whole day handled - no checking ferry schedules/buying tickets/choosing where to eat. Wonderful

Quality of Experience
100% worth every penny. Lucia made it special. So nice to have everything taken care of
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our driver was prompt - so nice to have it all arranged.
Transport
A Day Among Roman Castles & Medieval Hilltop Villages
A Day Among Roman Castles & Medieval Hilltop Villages
Rome

Very cool to get out of the hustle and bustle of Rome. LOVED the wine tasting - we were the only ones there and the staff was incredible. We met the owners at the winery. The papal palace and grounds were very cool to see and the little town outside was lovely. We stopped for lunch on the way back to Rome. Great.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
We would have loved to hear a bit more about the history of things while he was driving but it was still great.
Transport
Discover the Vatican: From the Museums to the Sistine Chapel
Discover the Vatican: From the Museums to the Sistine Chapel
Italy

This felt very rushed. And not a lot of information. She was very nice. It felt more like she was helping us short cut getting through. Unfortunately, we were there on a very busy day - not the guides fault.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Very nice.
Local specialist: Marina Courtaut
Marina
Marina Courtaut
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Aug 17, 2026
Hi Nicholle, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! It was a pleasure helping you plan such a special family journey through Italy. I am delighted to hear that you felt well taken care of and enjoyed the unique experiences, hotels, and little surprises along the way. It’s wonderful to hear how much everyone enjoyed different parts of the trip, from Capri and Lake Garda to Venice, Agrigento, the food, and all those special family moments. And that birthday cake for your daughter’s 21st... Read more

Hi Nicholle, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! It was a pleasure helping you plan such a special family journey through Italy. I am delighted to hear that you felt well taken care of and enjoyed the unique experiences, hotels, and little surprises along the way.

It’s wonderful to hear how much everyone enjoyed different parts of the trip, from Capri and Lake Garda to Venice, Agrigento, the food, and all those special family moments. And that birthday cake for your daughter’s 21st birthday was such a lovely detail to be part of!

I am so happy this became a trip you’ll remember forever, and I hope to welcome you back to Italy again soon! 🤩🤗 Warmest regards, Marina

From Milan to Trieste
Italy | Jul 23 - Aug 4, 2026

Debra
Debra B.
Canada | Reviewed on Aug 11, 2026
This was our second trip to Italy with kimkim. Our local specialist Leslie took our requests and planned our accommodations, tours, and transfers to suit us perfectly. Our tours of the Duomo and the Last Supper with local guides from Liv Tours were wonderful. Our group tour of the villa on Isola del Garda was a nice way to spend a day on the lake. We loved exploring the sights and streets of Verona. Our last stop in Trieste was memorable as it is an Italian city like no other. We were... Read more

This was our second trip to Italy with kimkim. Our local specialist Leslie took our requests and planned our accommodations, tours, and transfers to suit us perfectly. Our tours of the Duomo and the Last Supper with local guides from Liv Tours were wonderful. Our group tour of the villa on Isola del Garda was a nice way to spend a day on the lake. We loved exploring the sights and streets of Verona. Our last stop in Trieste was memorable as it is an Italian city like no other. We were impressed with the architecture, sea views, restaurants and the vibe of the city. Lastly, our tour with a winemaker in Colli Orientali del Friuli was the perfect way to end our trip.

Hotel Reviews
Boutique Hotel Albero Nascosto
Trieste

Loved location, comfort of the room and the friendly, helpful staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Indigo Verona - Grand Hotel Des Arts
Verona
Authenticity & Character
Location
Just outside of historic centre.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Mattress was very comfortable. Shower stall is a little tight.
Hotel Europa
Desenzano del Garda

Great location and breakfast.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Clean, but mattress is thin. Hallways are not air conditioned.
Hotel Milu Milano
Milano
Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to subway and shopping
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Wine Tasting - A Taste of Friuli’s Hill Country
Wine Tasting - A Taste of Friuli’s Hill Country
Trieste

An in depth tour with the winemaker. Great wine and food.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
A Guided Visit to the Isola del Garda (Garda Island
A Guided Visit to the Isola del Garda (Garda Island
Sirmione
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Express Milan Duomo Tour with Terrace Access
Express Milan Duomo Tour with Terrace Access
Italy

Great guide and perfect length.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Express Milan Last Supper Tour
Express Milan Last Supper Tour
Milan

Perfect length to learn about the painting.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Leslie Tranchina
Leslie
Leslie Tranchina
Local specialist in Bologna | Replied on Aug 13, 2026
Dear Debra, Thank you so much for sharing such a lovely review! It was truly a pleasure helping you plan your second journey to Italy with kimkim and creating an itinerary that reflected the experiences and pace you were looking for. I’m delighted that so many different moments became special memories — from the Duomo and Last Supper in Milan to your time on Lake Garda, exploring beautiful Verona, and discovering the very unique character of Trieste. And I’m especially happy that the wine... Read more

Dear Debra,

Thank you so much for sharing such a lovely review! It was truly a pleasure helping you plan your second journey to Italy with kimkim and creating an itinerary that reflected the experiences and pace you were looking for.

I’m delighted that so many different moments became special memories — from the Duomo and Last Supper in Milan to your time on Lake Garda, exploring beautiful Verona, and discovering the very unique character of Trieste. And I’m especially happy that the wine experience in the Colli Orientali del Friuli was such a wonderful way to bring your journey to a close.

Thank you again for trusting us with your travels. It was a pleasure working with you, and I hope we’ll have the opportunity to welcome you back to Italy for another adventure in the future!

Warmly,
Leslie

The flexibility in planning & trusting the specialist
Italy | Jul 30 - Aug 8, 2026

Jan
Jan W.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Aug 11, 2026
The trip was well planned from beginning to end. Leslie did an amazing job with selecting hotels that were novel and also in walking distance to the town centers. We were concerned because of the record heat wave but we should have trusted in the team all the hotels had a good temperature. They either had AC or they were high in altitude and it was cooler or, in one case, the hotel was specifically designed to maintain a low room temperature despite lacking an AC. Drivers came on... Read more

The trip was well planned from beginning to end. Leslie did an amazing job with selecting hotels that were novel and also in walking distance to the town centers.

We were concerned because of the record heat wave but we should have trusted in the team all the hotels had a good temperature. They either had AC or they were high in altitude and it was cooler or, in one case, the hotel was specifically designed to maintain a low room temperature despite lacking an AC.

Drivers came on time, hotels were unique, the tours were educational. The whole trip just worked like a well oiled machine.

Highly recommend this company, especially if you want to design your own trip.

Hotel Review
La Briosa
Bolzano

Just amazing and unique hotel. The system of keeping the hotel cool without AC was eye opening. Super friendly staff!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Leslie Tranchina
Leslie
Leslie Tranchina
Local specialist in Bologna | Replied on Aug 13, 2026
Dear Jan, Thank you so much for this wonderful review! It truly means a lot to me. It was such a pleasure designing this journey for you, and I'm especially happy to hear that the hotel choices, logistics, drivers, and experiences all came together so smoothly. I know the unusual summer heat was a concern before your departure, so I'm particularly glad that you were comfortable throughout the trip! Creating a journey that feels personal to each traveler while making sure everything works... Read more

Dear Jan,

Thank you so much for this wonderful review! It truly means a lot to me.

It was such a pleasure designing this journey for you, and I'm especially happy to hear that the hotel choices, logistics, drivers, and experiences all came together so smoothly. I know the unusual summer heat was a concern before your departure, so I'm particularly glad that you were comfortable throughout the trip!

Creating a journey that feels personal to each traveler while making sure everything works seamlessly behind the scenes is exactly what we strive for, and hearing you describe it as a “well-oiled machine” makes our entire team very happy.

Thank you again for trusting me and Storywalking with your adventure. I hope we’ll have the pleasure of planning another wonderful journey for you in the future!

Warmly,
Leslie

Perfect planning and execution, Italy with our teenage grandson!
Italy | Jul 21 - Jul 30, 2026

Ronald
Ronald F.
Jeffersonville, IN | Reviewed on Aug 04, 2026
Perfect planning and execution! Melanie helped us plan, organize and set up a perfect tour of Rome, Naples and Venice with our 16 yr old grandson. She took over with a short timeframe because I started with a trip planner that was not getting the job done. We needed to insure our teenage grandson had a memorable experience. Melanie took charge and the service we received was exceptional. Once on the ground, Giovanni joined our group to insure each day was perfectly executed. We... Read more

Perfect planning and execution! Melanie helped us plan, organize and set up a perfect tour of Rome, Naples and Venice with our 16 yr old grandson. She took over with a short timeframe because I started with a trip planner that was not getting the job done. We needed to insure our teenage grandson had a memorable experience. Melanie took charge and the service we received was exceptional. Once on the ground, Giovanni joined our group to insure each day was perfectly executed. We communicated frequently. I cannot say enough about KimKim, Italy Charm, Melanie and Giovanni. We will definitely use again and we highly recommend their services. Thanks for giving us an awesome trip! Ron, Hulyn and Tanner Farr

Local specialist: Melanie Rapuano
Melanie
Melanie Rapuano
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Sep 23, 2026
Hi Ron, Hulyn and Tanner,
thank you so much for trusting me with your speciall holiday. In your initial email I could tell you weren't happy with the planner you were dealing with, so it was even more of an honour for me when you decided to leave them and book with me. I always say I'm not a seller, my job is not to sell. you the most expensive trip, my job is to listen and create the tripe exactly how you would want it, and we did just that!
Thanks again for booking with us, you were... Read more

Hi Ron, Hulyn and Tanner,
thank you so much for trusting me with your speciall holiday. In your initial email I could tell you weren't happy with the planner you were dealing with, so it was even more of an honour for me when you decided to leave them and book with me. I always say I'm not a seller, my job is not to sell. you the most expensive trip, my job is to listen and create the tripe exactly how you would want it, and we did just that!

Thanks again for booking with us, you were definitely one of our top 10 guests so far this year, it was really a pleasure and I speak for Giovanna and the rest of the team at ItalyCharme too who helped make it all happen.

Grazie,
Melanie

Unforgettable family vacation
Italy | Jul 24 - Aug 2, 2026

Courtney
Courtney D.
Winona, MN, USA | Reviewed on Aug 04, 2026
I was a little bit hesitant on using a travel planner as I normally do this all on my own. However, being from the United States and not being familiar with Italy at all, it was a little intimidating to plan. I found Kimkim with an online search and amazing reviews and never looked back. From the start of the planning process to the entire trip, I was extremely impressed. Our itinerary was perfect and so were all of our tours, transfers and hotels. Rome, Tuscany and Sorrento gave our family a... Read more

I was a little bit hesitant on using a travel planner as I normally do this all on my own. However, being from the United States and not being familiar with Italy at all, it was a little intimidating to plan. I found Kimkim with an online search and amazing reviews and never looked back. From the start of the planning process to the entire trip, I was extremely impressed. Our itinerary was perfect and so were all of our tours, transfers and hotels. Rome, Tuscany and Sorrento gave our family a wonderful taste of Italy. The app was very easy to use with all of our train tickets and excursions listed right on it. The private excursions she booked were perfect and geared towards the ages of my teenage children. This memories we created on this trip were priceless! I’m already booking another trip through KimKim!

Activity Reviews
Guided Walking Tour of Florence
Guided Walking Tour of Florence
Florence

Our tour guide was amazing!!! We loved her and learned so much about Florence on this tour! Would highly recommend.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
After Closure Tour of the Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
After Closure Tour of the Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
Rome

Good tour overall but boring if you aren’t into art and statues. We were expecting more of a tour of the Vatican grounds and less of the museum. My teenage kids definitely were not fans of this one.

Capri & Costiera Sorrentina Boat Tour
Capri & Costiera Sorrentina Boat Tour
Italy

The boat tour was amazing but I could have completely skipping visiting the island of Capri. Very crowded and difficult to get around.

Exclusive Colosseum Tour for Kids
Exclusive Colosseum Tour for Kids
Rome

Our tour guide was amazing!!! She was so good with our kids ages 11 and 13 and made this tour one of our favorites!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Elisa Sciabica
Elisa
Elisa Sciabica
Local specialist in Milan | Replied on Aug 29, 2026

Dear Courtney,
Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful feedback! It was a true pleasure helping you and your family discover Italy.

We are thrilled to hear that the itinerary, experiences, and services were the perfect fit for your family and that you created such special memories together. Helping travelers feel confident and enjoy a seamless, authentic Italian experience is exactly what we strive for.

Thank you again for trusting us with your journey, and we can’t wait to help you plan your next adventure!

Liked Kim Kim better before the digital days
Italy | Jul 14 - Jul 19, 2026

Tammy
Tammy S.
Omaha, NE | Reviewed on Aug 01, 2026
The process of planning and booking this trip was not as positive as the first trip my sister and I did with Kim Kim about 3-4 years ago. For one thing, the computer program did not ever unlink my sister from the trip she had Kim Kim plan to France in March/April 2026. Even MY receipts for payments for MY trip to Italy with my granddaughter were sent to her email! She was not associated with the trip to Italy in any way.
I am not a big fan of having to download everything digitally. I...
Read more

The process of planning and booking this trip was not as positive as the first trip my sister and I did with Kim Kim about 3-4 years ago. For one thing, the computer program did not ever unlink my sister from the trip she had Kim Kim plan to France in March/April 2026. Even MY receipts for payments for MY trip to Italy with my granddaughter were sent to her email! She was not associated with the trip to Italy in any way.
I am not a big fan of having to download everything digitally. I finally got the trip loaded on my phone, BUT my cellular provider evidently does not have good coverage in other countries. I could not get to the trip information on my phone unless I was in the hotel and had WIFI available. Thankfully my granddaughter's cellular coverage worked in Europe, so we used hers when we were away from the hotel.
Jessica was good to respond to the requests when planning, for example booking us a pizza tour rather than a winery tour. It might have been reassuring to be advised that our hotels were within walking distance of the tour meeting places in most instances. The heat this year in July made the walks more challenging, but most people in reasonably good shape would be able to do them. The hotel in Rome was very nice, the staff very accommodating, and the breakfast exceptional. The hotel in Naples was interesting, but when the driver dropped us off, we could not really see where the hotel was. There was a large wooden door (sometimes open for drive through, other times closed with just a walk-through door) with several signs on the right side. The name of the hotel was there among several other signs, on a sign about 20x20 inches square. A person had to punch in a code number to open it if it was not open to drive through. Then one went up a small and rather dingy elevator to a landing with a double wooden door that one used a plastic card to open, then one had a large metal key for one's room. The breakfast room and service were not nearly as nice as the hotel in Rome. The most positive thing it had going for it was it was right on the Dante Plaza where the Pizza tour met to begin.

Hotel Reviews
Rinuccini Relais Hotel
Naples

Hard to find at first - front door did NOT look like most hotel front doors. Getting in and out of hotel was complicated and a little tricky. Breakfast room and service were only average.

Authenticity & Character
The building certainly had character!
Location
Right on Dante Plaza
Staff
Young woman at the desk was very helpful, but no one was available overnight.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Once inside the upper floor and doors of the hotel, things were clean and the AC was nice and cool, but the area around the hotel seemed a little dingy and rough.
Albergo Del Senato
Rome

The rooms were clean and service very good. Breakfast was exceptional. Hotel location was close to a lot of the famous sites in the historic Rome area. Liked it very much.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close enough to walk to a lot of the historic sites
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Air conditioning worked well during the July heat wave.
Activity Reviews
Naples Pizza Tour
Naples Pizza Tour
Italy

Again, it was hot, even in the evening so it was not as pleasant as it could have been. Our guide was good, but she had to order so much food. My granddaughter and I could not possibly eat all of it, but she said she was supposed to. The sit-down restaurant was nice and welcome as it was cool. It is too bad that outdoor restaurants do not allow people to sit down briefly when there are empty seats in their area - at least for a little while. We had to "perch" on the side of a planter while our guide got our dessert. There were no park benches or other public places to sit in the area. We ended up taking it back to our hotel, but as we were leaving the country the next day, it mostly went to waste.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Highlights of the Vatican & Sistine Chapel Tour
Highlights of the Vatican & Sistine Chapel Tour
Italy

It was hot and crowded. I was surprised that the museum did not have air conditioning that worked well. The guide pointed out some interesting things about the paintings and other contents of the museum that I had not thought about or noticed before. The Sistine Chapel was smaller than I was expecting. St. Peter's Basilica was large but also crowded. We did not see most of the lovely side chapels, however as we were finishing and our guide leaving us, a Mass was about to begin, and I was able to stay for it. Since there were no papal audiences during July, it was special to me to be able to attend a Mass in St. Peter's.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Day Trip to Pompeii from Naples
Day Trip to Pompeii from Naples
Italy

We had a guide who seemed very attuned to what we would be interested in concerning the homes and daily lives of the unfortunate inhabitants of Pompeii and Herculaneum. I liked her approach to guiding us through the site.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Mount Vesuvius Entrance Tickets
Mount Vesuvius Entrance Tickets
Italy

Jessica answered my questions about the park, but since we were first timers there, it might have been nice to know about the various paths that one could take to the crater rim and the places to get a drink at the top. Our driver took us by a cameo factory on the way there, and that was interesting, but there was a lot of sales pitches made as well as information given.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The Best of Colosseum & Ancient Rome With Exclusive Arena Access
The Best of Colosseum & Ancient Rome With Exclusive Arena Access
Rome

The tour was amazing. Our guide was OK but not as good as some I have had. The meeting place was a little confusing because of the two places (upper and lower) it could have been. The guide explained and showed us many things but did not "bring to life the fascinating history and architectural marvels of the structural, sharing stories of emperors, gladiators, and the roaring spectators". The heat may have had something to do with that I suppose.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Jessica Proietti
Jessica
Jessica Proietti
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Aug 18, 2026
Thank you for taking the time to share such detailed feedback. I’m sorry that the planning and booking experience did not feel as smooth as your previous trip with kimkim, especially regarding your sister’s account remaining linked and the payment receipts being sent to her email. These are technical aspects of the kimkim platform that I’m unable to manage directly, but I completely understand your frustration and will make sure your comments are shared with their support team.
I’m also sorry...
Read more

Thank you for taking the time to share such detailed feedback. I’m sorry that the planning and booking experience did not feel as smooth as your previous trip with kimkim, especially regarding your sister’s account remaining linked and the payment receipts being sent to her email. These are technical aspects of the kimkim platform that I’m unable to manage directly, but I completely understand your frustration and will make sure your comments are shared with their support team.
I’m also sorry that accessing the itinerary while traveling proved difficult. Although the trip information can be downloaded for offline use, I understand that this may not have been clear or convenient, particularly with limited cellular coverage abroad. Your feedback is a helpful reminder that providing a printable or offline copy, along with clearer instructions, can give travelers greater peace of mind.
I’m glad I was able to tailor the itinerary to your preferences, including arranging the pizza tour, and that you especially enjoyed the hotel in Rome. I also appreciate your comments about walking distances and the arrival experience at the Naples hotel. While its location near Piazza Dante was very convenient, clearer arrival instructions and information about the building entrance would certainly have made check-in easier.
It was a pleasure helping you plan this special trip with your granddaughter. Thank you again for highlighting both the positive aspects and the areas where the experience could be improved.

5-star experience! Professional, organized, reliable!
Italy | Jul 18 - Jul 25, 2026

Yana
Yana M.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jul 26, 2026
This was our first experience booking a trip with Kimkim and the entire experience exceeded all expectations!! The planning process was smooth, easy, and with as much flexibility as we needed. I wanted to have a mix of things planned/organized for us, and I wanted to plan some things on our own. Anita was extremely flexible and accommodating. She made excellent recommendations for restaurants that were all INCREDIBLE! Not touristy, local, elegant decor and Michelin quality establishments.... Read more

This was our first experience booking a trip with Kimkim and the entire experience exceeded all expectations!! The planning process was smooth, easy, and with as much flexibility as we needed. I wanted to have a mix of things planned/organized for us, and I wanted to plan some things on our own. Anita was extremely flexible and accommodating. She made excellent recommendations for restaurants that were all INCREDIBLE! Not touristy, local, elegant decor and Michelin quality establishments. Anita planned our hotel and several tours in Rome, and everything worked like clockwork! All of the transportation/transfers that she planned for us were all professional drivers, prompt, spoke English, and were very helpful. We will book all future trips with Kimkim! Our highest compliments.

Hotel Review
Hotel Carnival Palace
Venice

Awesome hotel! In a quiet neighborhood, where locals live, yet lively in the evenings while walking back. Right on the canal. Restaurants nearby, lively atmosphere at night yet not loud at all. We had a family suite that was very spacious, modern decor, breakfast was excellent as well. The hotel is very clean, our room was perfect! The bar downstairs was really great too, with delicious cocktails and a nice sitting lounge for grabbing a drink before heading out for the evening. Would definitely stay here again.

Authenticity & Character
Felt local, yet modern,
Authenticity & Character
Felt local, yet modern,
Location
Local neighborhood, lively atmosphere in the evenings, not too loud. Perfect location.
Location
Local neighborhood, lively atmosphere in the evenings, not too loud. Perfect location.
Staff
friendly and easy check in experience and bar staff were friendly
Staff
friendly and easy check in experience and bar staff were friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean! Beds were very comfortable.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean! Beds were very comfortable
Activity Reviews
The Vatican Unveiled:  From  Vatican Museum to Sistine Chapel
The Vatican Unveiled: From Vatican Museum to Sistine Chapel
Rome

Seeing the Vatican with a private guide and a skip the line pass was very helpful. We opted for the 10a start time, not the 8a, and it was great! Yes it was crowded, but the skip the line pass helped a lot. Our guide didn’t read the room very well and provided so much information, that it was overwhelming and difficult to retain any. It was disappointing, she knew a lot, but didn’t know how to share her knowledge in a helpful way. We had a 12 and 14yo with us, who were just lost.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guide was very knowledgeable. But missed the part about knowing your audience. With 2 kids in a private tour of 4, we hoped she would present information in a way that was possible to digest. She overwhelmed us.
Transport
Rome Unearthed: Guided Walk of Colosseum & Ancient City
Rome Unearthed: Guided Walk of Colosseum & Ancient City
Rome

Our guide was great! Friendly, informative, and made the tour appropriate for our family with a 12 and 14yo.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Anita Matijasevic
Anita
Anita Matijasevic
Local specialist in Madrid & Florence | Replied on Jul 27, 2026
Hi Yana,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your trip review. I'm really happy to hear that you and your family enjoyed your time in Italy. 🤩
I'm glad we were able to create the right balance of organized activities and free time. It's also great to know you enjoyed the restaurant recommendations and that everything, from the hotel and tours to the transfers, went just as we planned.
I would be glad to help you plan your next vacation, whether it's another part of Italy or...
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Hi Yana,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your trip review. I'm really happy to hear that you and your family enjoyed your time in Italy. 🤩
I'm glad we were able to create the right balance of organized activities and free time. It's also great to know you enjoyed the restaurant recommendations and that everything, from the hotel and tours to the transfers, went just as we planned.
I would be glad to help you plan your next vacation, whether it's another part of Italy or somewhere else like Spain, Portugal, or Morocco. Thank you again, and I wish you many more wonderful travels! Warm regards, Anita

Our first trip to Italy was PERFECT !!
Italy | Jul 7 - Jul 17, 2026

ANDREW
ANDREW S.
Miami, FL | Reviewed on Jul 26, 2026
I cannot express enough on how grateful we are to Giulia on planning our first trip to Italy. We gave her our budget for the trip and she turned it into a dream vacation for me an my family. There was no way I could have planned it better, especially being our first time there. EVERYTHING was taken care of. From rides to and from the airports, 5 different personal tours, train tickets, boat rides to islands, fantastic but not over priced hotels in perfect locations. When ever we had a... Read more

I cannot express enough on how grateful we are to Giulia on planning our first trip to Italy. We gave her our budget for the trip and she turned it into a dream vacation for me an my family. There was no way I could have planned it better, especially being our first time there. EVERYTHING was taken care of. From rides to and from the airports, 5 different personal tours, train tickets, boat rides to islands, fantastic but not over priced hotels in perfect locations. When ever we had a question, we were connected to her thru WhatsApp, and she or her partner answered right away. She made it so I can just relax and enjoy my trip. If you don't want the hassle of planning a large trip and having a logistical nightmare of doing it yourself, I HIGHLY recommend using KimKim. Not only will you have a spectacular vacation, but just knowing you have a friend you can immediately contact if you have issues, takes all the worries away so you can just relax and enjoy your trip. Thank you again Giulia for everything you did. You are very good at what you do. I still owe you a glass of wine.

Local specialist: Giulia Carucci
Giulia
Giulia Carucci
Local specialist in Bologna | Replied on Jul 27, 2026
Dear Andrew,
Wow, what an extraordinary review! Thank you so much for your very kind words and for sharing these thoughts with me! I am really moved! 😊
I really couldn't be happier to hear that I managed to organise the trip you dreamt of...this is really the aim that drives my job! ❤️ So knowing that I managed to provide a trip and some life moments you will keep in your hearts for a long time...is really the best reward I could ever receive!
I hope you will keep all these good memories with...
Read more

Dear Andrew,
Wow, what an extraordinary review! Thank you so much for your very kind words and for sharing these thoughts with me! I am really moved! 😊
I really couldn't be happier to hear that I managed to organise the trip you dreamt of...this is really the aim that drives my job! ❤️ So knowing that I managed to provide a trip and some life moments you will keep in your hearts for a long time...is really the best reward I could ever receive!
I hope you will keep all these good memories with you for a long time! And if ever you wished to visit Italy again, you know you have a friend here! 😊
A big hug!
Giulia

Roman and Sorrento Holiday
Italy | Jun 30 - Jul 11, 2026

A
Ada L.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Jul 24, 2026

Our trip to Italy was made seamless with the guidance of Leslie and the KimKim team. They organized a detailed itinerary that fit the needs of our whole family including our teenagers. Each day was carefully curated with a balance of learning about culture and relaxing days on the beach. We appreciated the small details from navigating the Italian transport system to personalized one on one tours like through the Vatican City. We were rest assured that we could leave the details to KimKim and just enjoy our trip! Thank you for helping us plan our vacation!

Local specialist: Leslie Tranchina
Leslie
Leslie Tranchina
Local specialist in Bologna | Replied on Aug 13, 2026
Dear Ada, Thank you so much for your lovely review! It was truly a pleasure helping you create this special family journey through Italy. I’m especially happy to hear that the balance between cultural experiences and time to simply relax worked well for everyone, including your teenagers. Knowing that you could enjoy your vacation without worrying about the logistics and little details behind the scenes is exactly what we hope to achieve for our travelers. Thank you for trusting me and our... Read more

Dear Ada,

Thank you so much for your lovely review! It was truly a pleasure helping you create this special family journey through Italy.

I’m especially happy to hear that the balance between cultural experiences and time to simply relax worked well for everyone, including your teenagers. Knowing that you could enjoy your vacation without worrying about the logistics and little details behind the scenes is exactly what we hope to achieve for our travelers.

Thank you for trusting me and our team with your family vacation. I hope Italy left all of you with many wonderful memories, and I would be delighted to help you plan another adventure in the future!

Warmly,
Leslie

Loved the hotels we had in Florence and Sorre...
Italy | Jul 5 - Jul 12, 2026

R
Renee T.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jul 21, 2026
Loved the hotels we had in Florence and Sorrento. Numa in Rome was not a great experience. My bed had ants in it. The rooms were tiny. I lived the You Know Boat tour of the Amalfi coast in the last day. I was frustrated with our trains between cities because there was a know issue with delays, and our trains reservations could have been changed to avoid it, but our travel agent did not so that. It took us 5.5 hours to get from Florence to Naples instead of 3. Read more

Loved the hotels we had in Florence and Sorrento. Numa in Rome was not a great experience. My bed had ants in it. The rooms were tiny. I lived the You Know Boat tour of the Amalfi coast in the last day. I was frustrated with our trains between cities because there was a know issue with delays, and our trains reservations could have been changed to avoid it, but our travel agent did not so that. It took us 5.5 hours to get from Florence to Naples instead of 3.

Hotel Reviews
Numa Apartments Roma
Roma

Numa Apartments Roma was in a great location, but the self-service setup was not to my liking. Unfortunately, one of the beds had ants in it, which was quite unpleasant. We just dealt with it, but I would not stay there again.

Villa Bellarosa Sorrento
Sorrento

Villa Bellarosa Sorrento was a lovely bed and breakfast. The couple who ran it were incredibly sweet and helpful, even going out of their way to pick us up when we couldn't get a cab. Their hospitality really enhanced our stay.

Palazzo Alfani al David
Florence

The hotel in Florence, Palazzo Alfani al David, was really nice with a great location. We stayed in a one-bedroom apartment that was huge, giving us a lot of space which was very comfortable and enjoyable.

Activity Reviews
A Family Walk Through Florence
A Family Walk Through Florence
Florence

The family walk through Florence was fantastic. We had done it before and specifically requested it again because we enjoyed it so much. It was a great experience and lived up to what we expected.

Sailing the Amalfi Coast: From Sorrento to Amalfi & Positano
Sailing the Amalfi Coast: From Sorrento to Amalfi & Positano
Italy

The boat trip with Unifin on the last day was really nice and very well done. It was definitely our favorite part of the trip. The experience was fantastic and exceeded our expectations.

Local specialist: Anita Matijasevic
Anita
Anita Matijasevic
Local specialist in Madrid & Florence | Replied on Jul 24, 2026
Hi Renee,
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. I'm happy to hear that you loved your stays in Florence and Sorrento, and that you enjoyed the boat tour along the Amalfi Coast.
Regarding the train journey, as we discussed through the Traveler App during your trip, there were major rail reconstruction works taking place on the route during your travel dates, which caused significantly longer travel times than usual. We booked Business Class tickets for your family so that... Read more

Hi Renee,
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. I'm happy to hear that you loved your stays in Florence and Sorrento, and that you enjoyed the boat tour along the Amalfi Coast.

Regarding the train journey, as we discussed through the Traveler App during your trip, there were major rail reconstruction works taking place on the route during your travel dates, which caused significantly longer travel times than usual. We booked Business Class tickets for your family so that the journey would be as comfortable as possible despite the longer travelling time. When you reached out about changing to a different train, my Team and I have checked the available options right away. Unfortunately, at that point (one day before), changing the reservation would have required paying double the price, making it a very costly change.

I'm truly sorry to hear about your experience at the hotel in Rome. This is the first time we've ever received feedback like this about that property. I wish you had let me know while you were there. I would have contacted the hotel immediately to request a room change and make sure the issue was addressed as quickly as possible.

It was a pleasure helping you plan your family's journey through Italy, and I wish you and your family all the best on your future travels. Warm regards, Anita

Seamless and stress free trip
Italy | Jul 3 - Jul 13, 2026

Cameron
Cameron K.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Jul 20, 2026

Nothing but great things to day about the KimKim experience. Erica helped us curate a full 11 day Italy honeymoon plan and had lots of suggestions and advice for us as we worked through some iterative trip options to figure out what we wanted to experience. The excursions she booked for us were lots of fun and the best part was the private car transfers from every hotel, day trip, airport, etc. Never had to touch a steering wheel once. It really felt like a 5 star experience (both the booking process and the trip itself) and made our honeymoon stress free and simple. Everything just "worked".

Local specialist: Erica Gerakos
Erica
Erica Gerakos
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Jul 23, 2026

Thank you so much for your kind review! It was so fun helping plan your honeymoon, and I loved working through all those options with you and Laura to get it just right. So glad the private transfers took all the stress out of getting around and that everything came together so smoothly. Congratulations again, and wishing you both all the best as you start this new chapter together!

This trip epitomizes why we use KimKim. Fir...
Italy | Jun 23 - Jul 10, 2026

T
Tom D.
Boston, MA, USA | Reviewed on Jul 20, 2026
This trip epitomizes why we use KimKim.
First idea, go to Barcelona to see some of the 2026 Tour de France and continue on. Second idea go early and end the trip in Barcelona, start somewhere else. Hmmm Verona looks interesting.
Contact KimKim and outline a driving trip from Verona to Barcelona over 18 days.
In comes Leslie, a KimKIm Italy travel expert based in Bologna who puts together an amazing itinerary. Stops, tours, things to see, with a few tweaks (for us no wine tours) and...
Read more

This trip epitomizes why we use KimKim.
First idea, go to Barcelona to see some of the 2026 Tour de France and continue on. Second idea go early and end the trip in Barcelona, start somewhere else. Hmmm Verona looks interesting.
Contact KimKim and outline a driving trip from Verona to Barcelona over 18 days.
In comes Leslie, a KimKIm Italy travel expert based in Bologna who puts together an amazing itinerary. Stops, tours, things to see, with a few tweaks (for us no wine tours) and then we get to hotel selection. This is where Leslie and team excelled, we stayed at some wonderful places that we would never have found on our own no matter how long we scraped the internet.
Select the hotels, confirm the flights, add one more stop to break up a long driving day and we are good to go.
It all worked. The hotels were amazing, the tours and tour guides (Julien in Avignon was a stand out) were excellent. Working with Annalisa, our daily What’sApp contact, each afternoon we confirmed all the next days activity. We made a last minute change to a pickup point in Barcelona that was handled perfectly.
Memorable stops, Isola Bella ( just go), Avignon, Aigues-Mortes, Girona, cycling heaven. The history is amazing.
This was our 5th KimKim trip and was probably the best and definitely will not be the last.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Regina
Barcelona
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Palau Fugit
Girona

FAntastic, cannot recommend enough

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hôtel La Casa Pairal
Collioure
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Clean comfortable, but strange layout
La Maison Molière
Arles
La Chapelle sur la Sorgue
L'Isle sur la sorgue
Authenticity & Character
Location
Perfect
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Royal Hotel Sanremo
Sanremo
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Grand Hotel Des Iles Borromees
Stresa
Hotel Accademia
Verona
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Private Gothic Quarter Walk
Private Gothic Quarter Walk
Barcelona
Avignon Private Guided Walking Tour with a Licensed Guide
Avignon Private Guided Walking Tour with a Licensed Guide
Italy

Julien was our favorite tour guide of the trip

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
History, Legends & Monuments Walk
History, Legends & Monuments Walk
Girona
Half Day Tour: Isola Bella and Fishermen's Island
Half Day Tour: Isola Bella and Fishermen's Island
Italy

Our favorite tour of the trip Who knew?

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Walking Tour of Verona
Private Walking Tour of Verona
Italy
Local specialist: Leslie Tranchina
Leslie
Leslie Tranchina
Local specialist in Bologna | Replied on Jul 24, 2026
Hi Tom, Wow... thank you so much for such an incredible review! Reading your words truly made our day. It was an absolute pleasure designing this journey with you, especially watching it evolve from a simple idea around the Tour de France into such a memorable road trip. I'm so happy that the hotels, the route, the guides, and all the little details came together so well. Finding those special places to stay is one of my favorite parts of planning a trip, so it means a lot to hear how much... Read more

Hi Tom,

Wow... thank you so much for such an incredible review!

Reading your words truly made our day. It was an absolute pleasure designing this journey with you, especially watching it evolve from a simple idea around the Tour de France into such a memorable road trip.

I'm so happy that the hotels, the route, the guides, and all the little details came together so well. Finding those special places to stay is one of my favorite parts of planning a trip, so it means a lot to hear how much you enjoyed them.

Thank you as well for mentioning Annalisa, she will be delighted to know they helped make your experience even more special.

Most of all, thank you for trusting me and Storywalking with your fifth KimKim journey. Knowing that you consider it your best one yet is an incredible compliment.

I hope our paths cross again for KimKim trip number six. Until then, I wish you many wonderful memories from this adventure!

Warm regards,

Leslie

Handcrafted Journey Perfectly Matched our Italian Bucket List!
Italy | Jun 7 - Jul 2, 2026

Leslie
Leslie T.
Bellevue, WA, USA | Reviewed on Jul 20, 2026
We could not have been more pleased by the handcrafted Italian journey Melanie put together for our family! From a short list of destination choices around the country and our travel dates, she created a trip that included our entire wish list, including a town of our family's heritage, along with local excursions that showcased all the beauty and history Italy has to offer! The support provided by Melanie and Giovanna throughout the trip made each day's adventures flow with ease, allowing... Read more

We could not have been more pleased by the handcrafted Italian journey Melanie put together for our family! From a short list of destination choices around the country and our travel dates, she created a trip that included our entire wish list, including a town of our family's heritage, along with local excursions that showcased all the beauty and history Italy has to offer! The support provided by Melanie and Giovanna throughout the trip made each day's adventures flow with ease, allowing us to truly enjoy each experience rather than worry about constantly navigating logistics. Their hard work has left us memories for a lifetime!

Local specialist: Melanie Rapuano
Melanie
Melanie Rapuano
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Jul 20, 2026

Hi Leslie,
thank you so much for your review and your kind words. Thank you for trusting me with all my ideas, all my changes, all my suggestions, I wasn't going to stop until it was eactly how it should be for you all to enjoy this special Italian trip and experience some family history too.

I'm so pleased everything went perfectly, you'll have to come back as you still need to visit Siena!!

Have a wonderful summer and I look forward to your next trip!

Melanie and Giovanna!

Best tour guides- ZERO complaints!
Italy | Jul 3 - Jul 12, 2026

Wendy
Wendy M.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jul 19, 2026
Pompeii Guide Natalia was brilliant. HIGHLY recommend- she was a wealth of knowledge.
Amalfi Coast tour guide Alejandro was high energy, brought us on a super comfortable boat, and made us spectacular sandwiches and sweet treats just because he was super sweet- another excellent tour.
Sorrento- we took a cooking class with maybe Julia? I can't remember her name, but that was another awesome experience. Her home was amazing, and her lessons were something we will never forget.
Capri tour...
Read more

Pompeii Guide Natalia was brilliant. HIGHLY recommend- she was a wealth of knowledge.
Amalfi Coast tour guide Alejandro was high energy, brought us on a super comfortable boat, and made us spectacular sandwiches and sweet treats just because he was super sweet- another excellent tour.
Sorrento- we took a cooking class with maybe Julia? I can't remember her name, but that was another awesome experience. Her home was amazing, and her lessons were something we will never forget.
Capri tour guide Marcella- so much fun! She called us family immediately upon pick up and we had a blast the whole day with her.
Everyone you booked for us was excellent. We loved our trip to Italy.

Hotel Review
Maison Kalea
Sorrento

Our room was extremely clean, and a great size with a huge private balcony. Breakfast was excellent, and the staff was friendly. Hotel is also an easy 7-minute walking distance to the Sorrento district which is full of shops and restaurants.

Authenticity & Character
Fully of colors and tastefully decorated
Location
Easy walking distance to the main street of Sorrento
Staff
Kind and friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Most comfortable bed our of our 4 different hotel stays- we slept well!
Local specialist: Anita Matijasevic
Anita
Anita Matijasevic
Local specialist in Madrid & Florence | Replied on Jul 20, 2026

Hi Wendy,
Thank you for sharing your trip review! 😊
I’m happy to hear each of the guides made your experience so special and that Maison Kalea was a great fit for your stay on the Amalfi Coast. Thank you again for trusting me with your vacation. It was a pleasure planning it for you, and I hope to help you create another amazing adventure in the future! I wish you all the best!! Anita

The perfect Italy adventure!
Italy | Sep 22 - Oct 4, 2025

E
Ellen T.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Jul 17, 2026

We had the most memorable and unforgettable two weeks in Italy thanks to Luca! There is absolutely nothing we would change about the trip from beginning to end. When we needed to trouble shoot an issue while there (rare) KimKim ‘s representatives immediately took care of the problem. Luca was excellent to work and we thank him!

Local specialist: Luca D'Arcangelo

Thank you
Italy | Jul 1 - Jul 11, 2026

J
J B.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jul 16, 2026
Thank you guys for planning this trip. Memorable, with every detail covered. It took the stress out of travel and let us relax at every turn. Really made it special for our family. Thanks again. JB Read more

Thank you guys for planning this trip. Memorable, with every detail covered. It took the stress out of travel and let us relax at every turn. Really made it special for our family. Thanks again. JB

Hotel Reviews
Grand Hotel De La Ville
Sorrento

Easy access to all parts of Sorrento. Amazing views of the bay from our balcony. Excellent staff.

Gallery Hotel Art - Lungarno Collection
Florence

Excellent location in the heart of Florence. Easy access to all parts of the city. Excellent rooms.

Hotel Santa Chiara
Venice

Excellent location. Close to train station. Easy access to the city. Exceptional staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Self-Guided Florence Exploration
Self-Guided Florence Exploration
Florence
Quality of Experience
Private Family Highlights Walk with Michelangelo's David
Private Family Highlights Walk with Michelangelo's David
Florence
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Angela our tour guide was outstanding. The best of our trip.
Welcome to Italy
Welcome to Italy
Italy
Quality of Experience
Private Photoshoot
Private Photoshoot
Sorrento
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Depart Italy
Depart Italy
Italy
Quality of Experience
Day Trip to Positano & Amalfi by Boat
Day Trip to Positano & Amalfi by Boat
Sorrento

See below

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Day Trip to Cinque Terre & Pisa
Day Trip to Cinque Terre & Pisa
Florence

Cinque Terre was amazing

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Morning Culinary Discovery Walk
Morning Culinary Discovery Walk
Florence
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private Day Trip to Verona & Lake Garda
Private Day Trip to Verona & Lake Garda
Venice
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Discovery Walk with St. Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace & Gondola Ride
Discovery Walk with St. Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace & Gondola Ride
Venice

Great history tour.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Alex Mottler
Alex
Alex Mottler
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on Jul 17, 2026

Thank you so much, JB! It was truly our pleasure to help plan your family's trip. We're so happy to hear that you were able to relax and enjoy the experience without the stress of managing all the details—that's exactly what we strive for. Knowing we helped create special memories for your family means the world to us. Thank you again for your kind words and for trusting us with your vacation. We can't wait to help you plan your next adventure!

Amazing Italy Vacation thanks to Giulia
Italy | Jun 28 - Jul 5, 2026

JAMES
JAMES T.
San Antonio, TX | Reviewed on Jul 16, 2026

We planned our Milan and Lake Como trip late in the season and kept hitting sold-out rooms, then we found Giulia. She listened, found two perfect boutique hotels in great locations, and built an itinerary we never could have put together ourselves. Her guides were excellent, and every excursion was a hit: a fantastic cooking class, and wonderful tours of the Duomo, The Last Supper, and the surrounding areas. Once we arrived, she stayed with us every step of the way. Highly recommend!

Local specialist: Giulia Carucci
Giulia
Giulia Carucci
Local specialist in Bologna | Replied on Jul 20, 2026

Dear James and Eleni,

thank you so much for your wonderful review and for your vey kind words ❤️!
I couldn't be happier to hear this and to know that you were so happy about your trip, this was exactly my aim!
It was a pleasure helping you with this trip...and if ever you were planning to come back to Italy to visit other areas, you know you have a friend here and I will be more than happy to assist you again!
A big hug from Italy (I am actually on Lake Como right now!)😉
Giulia

The Perfect Partner for Our Italian Adventure
Italy | Jul 2 - Jul 11, 2026

Joseph
Joseph C.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jul 15, 2026
Chris was wonderful to work with throughout the planning and booking process for our trip to Italy. He took the time to understand our vision, offered thoughtful suggestions, and helped guide our decisions without ever making us feel pressured in one direction or another. Once our itinerary was finalized, the planning, coordination, and execution across the KimKim team and their travel partners were outstanding. Everything felt remarkably seamless, and we truly did not have to worry about... Read more

Chris was wonderful to work with throughout the planning and booking process for our trip to Italy. He took the time to understand our vision, offered thoughtful suggestions, and helped guide our decisions without ever making us feel pressured in one direction or another.

Once our itinerary was finalized, the planning, coordination, and execution across the KimKim team and their travel partners were outstanding. Everything felt remarkably seamless, and we truly did not have to worry about a thing.

After arriving, we gained an even greater appreciation for all of the behind-the-scenes coordination, especially with transfers between destinations and reserved tours. Chris and our local contact, Maria, were incredibly responsive to our questions and always made sure we knew the plans for the following day, which gave us tremendous peace of mind.

The hotels were lovely and thoughtfully selected, with excellent locations that allowed us to feel more like locals than tourists.

Our favorite experiences were the private boat tour around Capri with our captains, Mario and Rafaello, and the Path of the Gods hike in Positano with Vincenzo. Those experiences created memories we will treasure for years to come.

We are so grateful to Chris, Maria, and the entire team for helping us create such a special trip.

Hotel Reviews
Palazzo Tasso
Sorrento (NA) - Italy

Finding the entrance to Palazzo Tasso was a bit confusing at first, but fortunately the hotel’s website included helpful instructions on how to access it from a nearby side street. Once we arrived, we found the location to be excellent. Tucked away on a quieter street but just steps from Piazza Tasso, it offered both convenience and a peaceful atmosphere. Palazzo Tasso is a straightforward hotel, with a reception desk and guest rooms but no common areas for socializing or relaxing. That suited us perfectly, as we stayed there toward the end of our trip and were mostly looking for a comfortable place to recharge after long days of exploring. Our room had several thoughtful features that we especially appreciated, including keyless entry with a code instead of a traditional key, a balcony overlooking the main street, a spacious shower, and a high-quality Dyson hair dryer. Those details made our stay feel both easy and comfortable. Overall, Palazzo Tasso was a great base for enjoying everything Sorrento has to offer.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Imperati Suites
Positano

We had a wonderful stay at Imperati Suites. While it is not located right in the middle of town, the location was still very manageable and offered a nice balance of convenience and tranquility. It is close enough to the road that arriving with luggage was easy and did not require navigating too many stairs. Getting to the beach was straightforward, with several routes to choose from. We especially enjoyed taking the longer path, which involved fewer stairs and offered beautiful views along the way, as well as plenty of restaurants and shops to explore. Katia was incredibly welcoming and always available to answer questions or help with anything we needed during our stay. Her hospitality made us feel right at home. The rooms were surprisingly spacious, exceptionally clean, and very comfortable. However, the highlight of our stay was waking up each morning to the stunning view and enjoying breakfast on the balcony. It was the perfect way to start the day and one of our favorite memories from Positano.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Mignon Sorrento
Sorrento

We had a wonderful stay at Hotel Mignon. The location was excellent - just a short walk from Piazza Tasso - and we loved having a market and bank nearby within walking distance, which made everything incredibly convenient. The staff were warm and welcoming from the moment we arrived. The hotel itself is beautifully decorated and impeccably maintained. Every area felt clean and inviting throughout our stay - especially the dining and outdoor areas. While the rooms are not large, they are thoughtfully designed and make great use of the space. Our room was very clean, comfortable, and had everything we needed. As Americans visiting during the summer, we especially appreciated how well the air conditioning worked! We would absolutely stay at Hotel Mignon again and would happily recommend it to anyone visiting Sorrento.

Authenticity & Character
One of the things we appreciated most about Hotel Mignon was how thoughtfully the space was designed. The hotel makes excellent use of its footprint while maintaining a cohesive style throughout. For example, the entrance is a long hallway, and rather than treating it as merely functional, the hotel transformed it into a beautiful space that complements the character of the rest of the property. The dining area and outdoor spaces also felt very intentional in their design. There was an abundance of intimate seating, which created a welcoming atmosphere and made it feel like the perfect place to begin the day over breakfast or unwind in the evening. It also encouraged guests to relax and connect with one another.
Location
The location was excellent - just a short walk from Piazza Tasso - and we loved having a market and bank nearby within walking distance, which made everything incredibly convenient.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The dining area, outdoor spaces, and our room were all exceptionally clean and comfortable. The hotel was consistently well maintained, and the inviting seating areas made it easy to settle in and enjoy the surroundings. The thoughtful design and attention to detail contributed to a stay that felt both relaxing and welcoming.
Activity Reviews
Private hike along the Path of Gods
Private hike along the Path of Gods
Positano

The private hike along the Path of the Gods was another highlight of our trip to Italy. Our guide, Vincenzo, was fantastic. He was engaging, easy to understand, and struck the perfect balance between sharing information and simply letting us enjoy the experience. He pointed out interesting sights along the trail, matched our pace perfectly, and shared stories about both Italian culture and his own life, which made the four-hour hike pass surprisingly quickly. We hiked from Agerola to Nocelle and then continued on to Montepertuso, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The scenery was absolutely stunning throughout. Some of our favorite moments included seeing herds of goats on the mountainside, passing residents tending their gardens, and walking the same paths that donkeys traveled centuries ago. We also loved stopping at the lemonade stand in Nocelle and seeing the walkways that locals still use to travel between Nocelle and Montepertuso. As fans of Nicki Positano’s YouTubevideos, it was especially fun to recognize many of the views and landmarks we had seen online. This is not an easy hike, so we were very glad that we brought hiking shoes and plenty of water. That said, the effort was more than worth it. After finishing the hike, lunch at Ristorante Il Ritrovo in Montepertuso was the perfect reward and a wonderful way to end an incredible experience. We would highly recommend this excursion to anyone looking to experience the Amalfi Coast beyond the beaches and town centers.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full day boat excursion to the island of Capri (Lancia Sorrentina)
Full day boat excursion to the island of Capri (Lancia Sorrentina)
Italy

This full-day boat excursion to Capri was one of the absolute highlights of our trip. Having experienced it firsthand, we now fully appreciate the value of taking a private boat directly from Sorrento rather than navigating the ferry to Capri and joining a tour from there. The experience was seamless, relaxing, and allowed us to enjoy the island from an entirely different perspective. Our guides, Mario and Rafaello, struck the perfect balance of being welcoming, accommodating, and knowledgeable without ever feeling intrusive. We had already spent time exploring Capri by taxi a few days earlier, but seeing the island from the water was a completely different experience. They pointed out the various coves and took us to the quieter side of the island that we had not yet discovered. One of our favorite moments was being able to jump into the crystal-clear water and cool off during the day. The leisurely lunch on the island’s quieter side was exactly what we needed and provided a perfect break from the busier tourist areas. This excursion gave us some of our favorite memories from Italy, and we would highly recommend it to anyone visiting the Amalfi Coast.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Chris Gravas
Chris
Chris Gravas
Local specialist in Athens, Greece | Replied on Jul 16, 2026
Hello Christine & Joe, Thank you so very much for your reviews, kind words, and recommendations. I really appreciate! Your detailed feedback will be so helpful to future travelers who might wish to get a glimpse into the quality of our services. For that, I am very grateful, along with our team in Greece Insiders, Kimkim, and Maria Grazia in Italy. Of course, I will be more than happy to help you plan any future adventure, to Italy/Greece/France, Turkey, and/or Croatia. These are the... Read more

Hello Christine & Joe,

Thank you so very much for your reviews, kind words, and recommendations. I really appreciate! Your detailed feedback will be so helpful to future travelers who might wish to get a glimpse into the quality of our services. For that, I am very grateful, along with our team in Greece Insiders, Kimkim, and Maria Grazia in Italy.

Of course, I will be more than happy to help you plan any future adventure, to Italy/Greece/France, Turkey, and/or Croatia. These are the countries I can help with. Feel free to get in touch with me whenever you are ready, it will be a pleasure to plan with you again!

Until that time, I wish you all the best and happy & safe future travels. Have a wonderful rest of your summer!

Kind regards,
Chris

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