As the World Cup reaches its final stages, with the semi-finals taking place on Tuesday 14 and Wednesday 15 July before the final on Sunday 19 July, not everyone will be looking for the nearest big screen. With pub bookings for England’s opening match reportedly up 293%, and more than 9.3 million consumers expected to watch matches in pubs, bars or hospitality venues, many holidaymakers may be tempted to swap packed crowds and football fever for la dolce vita instead.
New booking data from leading Italian holiday specialist Citalia reveals that 30% of all bookings over the last four weeks have been for departures within the next two months, as more Brits embrace spontaneous summer escapes. With Italy absent from this year’s tournament, travellers can enjoy everything from peaceful lakeside retreats to leisurely alfresco dining and coastal adventures, without the World Cup taking centre stage.
To help those looking to escape the football frenzy, Citalia is offering savings across its luxury late holiday collection, with offers available to destinations including Sorrento, Lake Garda, Sicily, Ischia, Calabria and the Amalfi Coast.
Sorrento – Hotel La Pergola
Dates: 5 nights from 30 July 2026
Price: From £870pp
Inclusions: Return flights, hold baggage, shared transfers, bed & breakfast.
A peaceful base just outside the centre of Sorrento, perfect for exploring the Amalfi Coast, Capri and Pompeii.
Lake Garda – Hotel Sole
Dates: 5 nights from 25 July 2026
Price: From £979pp
Inclusions: Return flights, hold baggage, private transfers and half board.
Enjoy a lakeside escape with stunning waterfront views, charming villages and easy access to Lake Garda’s best attractions.
Amalfi Coast – Lidomare
Dates: 5 nights from 15 July 2026
Price: From £803pp
Inclusions: Return flights, hold baggage, private transfers and bed & breakfast.
Stay in the heart of Amalfi, just moments from the beach, harbour and the town’s bustling cafés and restaurants.
Sicily – Hotel Excelsior Palace, Taormina
Dates: 5 nights from 22 July 2026
Price: From £943pp
Inclusions: Return flights, hold baggage, shared transfers and bed & breakfast.
Take in views of Mount Etna while discovering Taormina’s historic streets, beaches and famous Greek Theatre.
Ischia – Continental Mare
Dates: 5 nights from 19 July 2026
Price: From £984pp
Inclusions: Return flights, hold baggage, private transfers and bed & breakfast.
Relax among Mediterranean gardens overlooking the Bay of Naples, with Ischia’s renowned thermal spas close by.
Calabria – Sentido Michelizia Tropea Resort
Dates: 7 nights from 28 July 2026
Price: From £994pp
Inclusions: Return flights, hold baggage, shared transfers and bed & breakfast.
Travellers can browse the full range of late holiday offers at Citalia or speak to one of the brand’s Italy specialists to find the best option for their summer escape.
For more information, please visit Citalia’s Late Holiday Offers page.
Photo by Matteo Parisi: https://www.pexels.com/photo/scenic-view-of-a-amalfi-coast-and-mountains-17807444/
