Italy Travel Planning FAQ

Custom Itineraries, Inclusive Travel, and Planning Support

Whether you're new to Lì Vicino or just trying to decide which guide is right for you, we’ve gathered answers to the most common questions. These reflect our approach to planning, pricing, pacing, and inclusive support—always rooted in care, clarity, and culture.

[PROCESS] How does the custom itinerary planning work?

After you fill out a short intake form and a 45 minute consult, we create a handcrafted 10–16 day itinerary tailored to your travel style, pace, and priorities. It’s delivered as a clear, structured PDF with daily suggestions, pacing notes, local flavor, and cultural insight.

We don’t make bookings or reservations. Instead, we give you the tools to explore confidently and independently.

[PROCESS] How far in advance should I reach out?

We recommend reaching out at least 6 months before your travel dates. This helps ensure availability and gives us the time to design a thoughtful, well-paced plan.

We take on a limited number of custom clients each season to keep things personal and manageable.

[PROCESS] How long does it take to receive my custom itinerary?

Once we confirm your intake and complete the consultation, your itinerary will typically be ready within 3–4 weeks. If we anticipate delays due to high volume or holidays, we’ll let you know upfront.

[PRICING] What’s included in the $200 custom itinerary fee?

Your $200 covers the creation of a fully personalized 10–16 day travel guide, including:

  • Daily outline with activities, day trips, and pacing tips

  • Regional food and wine notes

  • Cultural insights and language snippets

  • Travel flow suggestions (trains, car routes, local rhythms)

  • Optional inclusive travel support through Un Posto per Te

This price reflects the real cost of thoughtful, lived-experience travel design—done by two educators, not an algorithm or concierge team.

[PRICING] Do you offer a sliding scale?

Yes. If $200 isn’t accessible for you, we’re happy to offer a sliding scale—no questions asked.

We trust our travelers and want this to feel spacious, not stressful. Just send us a quick message and let us know what feels doable. We’ll do our best to meet you where you are.

[TRAVEL STYLE] What if I’ve already booked my flights or lodging?

That’s no problem! Many of our travelers come to us with some pieces already in place.

We’ll build your itinerary around your confirmed plans and help shape the rest of your trip so that it flows with ease and intention.

[TRAVEL STYLE] Will your guides work if I don’t plan to rent a car?

Most of our itineraries use public transportation or train travel and are designed with independent travelers in mind.

However, a few of our guides—especially in rural or mountainous areas—recommend renting a car or hiring a driver. We’ll make that clear in each guide’s description, and you can always reach out for alternative suggestions.

[TRAVEL STYLE] Are your itineraries good for solo travelers, couples, or families?

Yes—all of the above.

Our itineraries are designed to be adaptable, whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with your chosen or biological family. You’ll find suggestions that make room for rest, flexibility, and varied interests.

If you have specific needs (e.g., traveling with young children or aging parents), you can note that in your intake form and we’ll take it into account.

[INCLUSIVE TRAVEL] What is Un Posto per Te?

Un Posto per Te is a 1–2 page personalized supplement designed to support identity-affirming travel.

It’s available as an optional add-on with any itinerary and offers guidance for:

  • LGBTQ+ travelers

  • Disabled or mobility-impaired travelers

  • Neurodivergent travelers

  • Anyone navigating specific social, sensory, or cultural needs

We approach this with care and lived experience—not as a checkbox, but as an invitation to feel safe, seen, and prepared.

[INCLUSIVE TRAVEL] How much does Un Posto per Te cost?

We offer three pricing tiers:

  • Community – $15
    For travelers with limited access to funds or facing systemic barriers.

  • Standard – $45
    A fair market rate if you’re able to contribute at cost.

  • Sustainer – $75
    Helps subsidize free grants for others in the community.

We also grant a limited number of free versions each month through the Un Posto per Te Fund. Just ask—we’re here for you.

[GETTING STARTED] I’m not sure which guide is right for me. Can you help?

Absolutely. If you’re not sure whether to choose a standard itinerary, a premium one, or a custom trip, reach out here or send us a message.

We’ll ask a few simple questions and point you toward the best option based on your travel goals, budget, and timing.

Still have questions?

Send us a message via the chat (bottom right side of your browser) and we’ll respond as soon as we can. We’re a small team, but we read every message with care.