DEB Taylor has the insider knowledge of Italy and every year she shares that with a small group keen to explore the iconic European country.

She knows where to find the best cappuccino and cornetto con crema (flaky croissant filled with delicious custard) for two euros in the heart of Rome and where to buy the best onion and sage focaccia hot out of the oven in the Cinque Terre.

How about a glass of prosecco and home-made biscuits at the end of a surreal kayak on Lake Como, or trying Nonna's home-made limoncello while circumnavigating Capri in a private wooden gozzo boat?

"Italy never disappoints - there are secrets to be shared in every city, townand village,” Ms Taylor said.

As the owner of Ciao Italy Tours, Ms Taylor said it was beneficial to know what the locals know and spend time in gorgeous Italian villages alittle under the tourist radar.

For 10 years, Ms Taylor has been guiding small groups of 10 people through an authentic Italy and is passionate about sharing the secrets she has discovered travelling the length and breadth of a country she knows intimately.

"Every year and every trip just gets better,” Ms Taylor said.

"I always love seeing the reaction of my small group of excited travellers when they arrive in Rome at our elegant 17th century palace at the top of the Spanish Steps, once a convent but now a boutique hotel family-owned and managed.

"A twilight stroll around the historic centre will bring history alive and reveal stories not found in guide books.

"And then it's time to meet beautiful Valentina, who owns the best little trattoria tucked around the corner from our hotel. Her food is amazing.”

The Tuscany, Italian Riviera and Lake Como tour is the best of northern Italy and the Matera, Amalfi Coast and Capri tour is the best of southern Italy.

The groups travel Italy in the spring and autumn, with each tour being 14 nights and run back-to-back for people wishing to experience it all.

"A minimum of three nights in most places is the key to being able to enjoy every place as a local because there is time to wander and explore at leisure - perfetto,” MsTaylor said.

For more information onthe six departures thisyear, go to www.ciaoitaly.com.au, phone0403 621 008 or email deb@ciaoitaly.com.au.