As Scotty and I embarked on our Italian honeymoon in 2025, we discovered how perfectly it aligned with Expedia’s 2025 Travel Trends. From the romantic canals of Venice to the vibrant streets of Rome, our adventure showcased why Italy remains a top destination for the coming year. If you’re planning an Italian honeymoon in 2025, these trends will help make your trip unforgettable.

All of the hotels we booked for our travels through Italy were through Expedia! It made putting together our itinerary seamless and connected us to the best offers and a variety of locations. Since Scotty and I moved around so much, it was crucial to have everything ready to go, with a perfect balance between bustling cities and the serene views of the countryside. Our honeymoon took us to Venice, Florence, the Tuscan countryside, Sorrento, Positano, and finally Rome.

In this blog, we’ll dive into the trends we experienced and why you might want to consider them for your next trip to Italy—or anywhere else! Plus, I’ll be sharing links to all the amazing hotels we stayed at and loads of photos from our journey. Now, let’s dive right in!

1. Detour Destinations: Discovering Hidden Gems

One of Expedia’s standout trends, Detour Destinations, encourages travellers to step off the beaten path. While we indulged in iconic locales like Florence and then soon after Rome, we also ventured into the Tuscan countryside, staying at the serene Precise Tale Poggio Alla Sala.

This historic estate, once a noble villa dating back to the 19th century, is surrounded by rolling vineyards and ancient cypress trees. The property seamlessly blends luxury with history, offering 71 individually designed rooms and suites, each with breathtaking views of the countryside.

Beyond its stunning accommodations, the hotel features three distinct pools, including an infinity pool that seems to spill into the Tuscan hills. The holistic spa offers treatments inspired by the surrounding nature, and its gourmet restaurant showcases locally sourced ingredients, creating an authentic Tuscan dining experience. Whether you’re unwinding at the spa, sipping wine on the terrace, or enjoying a leisurely breakfast, every moment here will feel indulgent and restorative.

This made it the perfect base for our honeymoon detour, giving us both the tranquility to relax and the convenience to explore nearby gems like Pienza. Just a short drive away, Pienza captivated us with its medieval charm. Known as the “Ideal City,” it was redesigned in the 15th century by Pope Pius II to embody Renaissance ideals.

Wandering its cobblestone streets, we discovered boutique shops, admired panoramic views of the Val d’Orcia, and enjoyed a leisurely meal of homemade stew and caprese salad while soaking in the town’s serene atmosphere.

Staying at Precise Tale Poggio Alla Sala allowed us to enjoy the best of both worlds: the luxury and relaxation of a world-class retreat and the rich cultural experiences of Tuscany’s historic towns. If you’re planning a trip to Italy, adding a detour like this to your itinerary is a must—it’s the perfect way to slow down and truly savour la dolce vita.

2. Goods Getaways: Savouring and Shopping Local

Italy’s artisanal treasures were a cornerstone of our trip, making it a true Goods Getaway dream. From leather goods in Florence to limoncello in Sorrento (I’ll have to indulge in this soon, you’ll see why!), each stop offered something uniquely Italian to bring home. While I skipped the wine tastings this time around (pregnancy problems!), it’s just another reason to return.

Our society seems to be moving toward a “less but better” mindset—prioritizing quality and craftsmanship over quantity. Italy, with its rich heritage of artisanal trades, perfectly embodies this philosophy. And each piece we saved room for in our luggage has now become a treasure to us!

One of the highlights of our journey was visiting the island of Murano, just a short vaporetto ride from Venice. Renowned for its centuries-old glassmaking tradition, Murano has been crafting intricate glassware since the 13th century. We purchased a beautiful set of Murano glasses to commemorate our trip—each piece a work of art, shaped by the skilled hands of master artisans. Supporting local craftsmanship felt incredibly rewarding, and these glasses will hold a special place in our home.

In Florence, we explored the city’s famed leather markets, where the aroma of finely crafted leather filled the air. Florence has been a hub for leatherwork since the Renaissance, with artisans passing their trade down through generations. Whether you’re after a stylish bag, a timeless jacket, or a classic pair of shoes, the quality of Florentine leather is unparalleled.

We also strolled across the iconic Ponte Vecchio, a historic bridge lined with jewellery shops glittering with gold and gemstones. Dating back to medieval times, the bridge is famous for its master jewellers, offering everything from delicate gold chains to ornate statement pieces. It was fascinating to see the artistry up close and witness a tradition that has thrived for centuries.

We stayed right next to Ponte Vecchio which made beating the hustle and bustle of the morning commute easy! Hotel Continentale – Lungarno was one of the friendliest, most calming stays our whole trip!

Of course, no trip to Italy is complete without indulging in its culinary treasures. While I couldn’t partake in a glass of vino this time, Italy is world-renowned for its wine—there’s truly no better place for those who love a rich Chianti or a crisp Prosecco.

Beyond wine, the local cheeses, olive oils, and pastries offer a sensory experience that’s just as memorable. From savouring gelato in Florence (or every city to be exact) to enjoying fresh caprese salad in Positano, every bite felt like a celebration of Italy’s culinary heritage.

Whether you’re hunting for artisanal goods, indulging in world-class cuisine, or both, the possibilities in Italy are endless. And with Expedia, the world is yours to discover—one unforgettable Goods Getaway at a time.

3. Hotel Restaurant Renaissance: Dining Beyond the Room

In recent years, hotels have evolved beyond mere accommodations, emerging as culinary destinations in their own right—a trend we embraced throughout our honeymoon. Our journey through Italy offered numerous opportunities to indulge in exquisite dining experiences without stepping beyond our hotel doors and I loved each hotel we booked at for different reasons! Here are 3 examples:

Venice

Upon arriving in Venice, weary from international travel, we opted for a convenient yet luxurious dining experience at our hotel, Hotel Monaco & Grand Canal. The hotel’s Grand Canal Restaurant boasts a magnificent outdoor terrace overlooking the Grand Canal, Punta della Dogana, and the San Marco Basin. The ease of booking a table just steps from our room made our first evening both relaxing and indulgent. Savouring authentic Venetian cuisine while watching gondolas glide by was the perfect introduction to Italy’s rich culinary landscape.

Tuscan Countryside

In the heart of Tuscany (as aforementioned), we stayed at Precise Tale Poggio Alla Sala. The hotel’s restaurant, located within the main villa (where we stayed), features a dining room adorned with breathtaking decor that reflects the region’s elegance. Descending a grand staircase from our room to the dining area, we were treated to a menu celebrating local produce and traditional Tuscan flavours. Each dish, paired with panoramic views of the countryside, created an unforgettable dining experience that was both intimate and immersive.

Positano

After navigating the steep and bustling streets of Positano, we found solace in dining at our hotel, Hotel Montemare. The hotel’s Il Capitano Restaurant offers an elegant terrace strategically positioned to capture breathtaking views of the coastline. Sadly it was a little dreary we had dinner here but to our delight breakfast at Hotel Montemare offered the same view!

Enjoying a meal at both restaurants allowed us to unwind while indulging in fresh seafood and regional specialties. My golden rule is to always order seafood when I’m on the coastline and I have to say it never disappoints! The combination of delectable cuisine and the mesmerizing vista of the Amalfi Coast made for a dining experience that was both convenient and captivating.

Embracing the Hotel Restaurant Renaissance trend not only added layers of luxury and local flavour to our honeymoon but also provided a seamless blend of comfort and culinary enjoyment. These in-house dining experiences allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in Italy’s gastronomic heritage, making each meal a memorable chapter in our journey. And hey, when in Italy!

4. JOMO Travel: Embracing Tranquility

In Sorrento and Positano, we found ourselves fully embracing the Joy of Missing Out (JOMO). Instead of cramming every day with activities, we slowed down, taking leisurely strolls, relaxing on our hotel balconies, and soaking in the breathtaking Mediterranean views. This aligns perfectly with the JOMO Travel trend, which promotes more mindful, unhurried vacations—a true antidote to the fast-paced nature of everyday life.

One of my favourite moments came during a laid-back day in Positano. We scaled our way down to a quiet local beach club (away from the busy main strip), rented chairs, and spent the afternoon indulging in pure relaxation. With the sound of gentle waves and the salty sea breeze in the air, we ordered a delicious oceanside lunch and simply let time pass as we took in the stunning coastal scenery. It was the perfect reset after several days of traveling from city to city.

After moving every 2-3 days, a slower pace was exactly what we needed. Traveller’s fatigue is real, and finding balance during a trip is essential to truly enjoy and appreciate each destination. This slower approach allowed us to recharge and made the more active days feel even more rewarding.

In fact, this isn’t just one of my favourite travel trends—it’s a mindset I’ve started incorporating into my daily life. JOMO teaches us to let go of the fear of missing out and embrace the joy of simply being present. Whether you’re at home or abroad, carving out time to slow down can make a world of difference in how you experience life.

Our Top 3 Travel Tips for a Honeymoon in Italy:

1. Mix Major Cities with Quaint Towns:
   • Balance the energy of cities like Venice and Rome with quieter spots like the Tuscan countryside.
2. Plan Goods Getaways:
   • Leave room in your suitcase for Italian staples like leather bags, wine, and handmade ceramics.
3. Stay at Hotels with Noteworthy Restaurants:
   • These can elevate your experience, offering both convenience and gourmet delights.

Where We Stayed

• Venice
• Florence
• Tuscan Countryside
• Sorrento
• Positano
• Rome

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Why Italy Is Perfect for 2025 Travellers

Whether you’re honeymooning, traveling solo, or planning a family adventure, Italy offers a diverse range of experiences that align perfectly with next year’s biggest travel trends. From hidden detours to indulgent goods getaways and luxurious dining, there’s something for everyone in this enchanting country.

A huge thank you to Expedia for collaborating with me on this post and for booking our unforgettable stay at Precise Tale Poggio Alla Sala. It was the perfect refuge in the heart of the Tuscan countryside, giving us the space to relax and recharge before continuing our adventure.

I was also so happy to book the rest of our journey through Expedia. Genuinely having all our documentation and bookings in one place made the logistics of our multi-destination trip seamless. From the moment we checked in, whether in Venice, Positano, or Rome, everything ran smoothly, allowing us to focus on soaking up every moment of our Italian honeymoon.

If you’ve never been to Italy, consider this your sign to go. Make it happen in 2025 there is still time! This was our first time, and I can confidently say it won’t be our last. The country’s charm, culture, people and culinary delights have captured our hearts, and we’re already dreaming of future family vacations once we welcome our little one into the world.

Whether you’re seeking romance, adventure, or a taste of la dolce vita, Italy should absolutely be on your list. And with Expedia by your side, planning your dream trip is just a few clicks away. And more more travel trends or to find out where else in the world you can find them check out Unpack 2025 – The Trends in Travel by Expedia here!

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