Business Details
24 Years
experience
Luxury Holiday Rentals in Italy | Essential Italy
Founded in 2002 by Helen Forbes and Ian Styan, Essential Italy was established to share our deep appreciation for Italian culture and hospitality with discerning travellers. Our family-run business has grown to cover Italy's most sought-after destinations, offering handpicked villas, apartments, and hotels that meet the highest standards of quality and authenticity. With a team of experts based in the UK and Italy, we provide personalized service, leveraging decades of combined experience to match clients with their ideal Italian holiday accommodation.Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our meticulous property selection process, ongoing relationships with local hosts, and dedication to ensuring every guest experiences the true essence of Italy. We pride ourselves on combining English service standards with Italian warmth, offering 24/7 support before, during, and after your trip to guarantee a seamless and unforgettable holiday experience.
Services
Villa rentals
Apartment rentals
Hotel bookings
Car hire
Flight arrangements
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- We offer personalized property matching based on 20+ years' local expertise
- Our team includes Italy-based specialists with in-depth regional knowledge
- All properties undergo rigorous quality checks and regular inspections
- We provide 24/7 support before, during, and after your holiday
- We maintain direct relationships with property owners and local contacts
What people say
Quick customer service
Excellent holiday experience
Helpful recommendations
Exceptional properties
Professional team
Services
Villa rentals
We offer a curated selection of luxury villas across Italy's most desirable regions. Each property features private amenities, authentic Italian design, and prime locations near cultural attractions and natural beauty spots. Our villas cater to families, groups, and special occasions with varying sizes and configurations. Clients receive personalized recommendations based on their specific requirements and travel preferences.
Apartment rentals
Our handpicked apartments provide comfortable urban bases in Italy's most vibrant cities. Located in historic centres and cultural districts, these properties combine modern comforts with traditional architecture. Ideal for couples and small groups seeking authentic local experiences with easy access to restaurants, shops, and attractions. Each apartment undergoes rigorous quality checks for cleanliness and functionality.
Hotel bookings
We partner with unique boutique hotels and luxury resorts across Italy. Our selection includes family-run establishments, historic properties, and contemporary retreats offering exceptional service. Each hotel meets strict quality standards and provides distinctive Italian hospitality experiences. Clients benefit from preferential rates and exclusive amenities through our established partnerships.
Car hire
We arrange reliable car hire services at competitive rates across all major Italian airports and cities. Our partners provide modern vehicles with comprehensive insurance options and flexible cancellation policies. Clients receive detailed guidance on driving in Italy, local traffic regulations, and recommended routes to explore their chosen region with complete freedom.
Flight arrangements
We coordinate flight bookings to Italy's major airports, including direct and connecting options from UK departure points. Our service covers economy, premium economy, and business class options with major airlines. Clients receive expert advice on optimal travel times, airport transfers, and seamless connections to their accommodation for a stress-free holiday experience.
People
Helen Forbes
Founder
Helen founded Essential Italy in 2002 with a passion for Italian culture. She personally inspects all properties and maintains high standards. Her extensive travel experience across Italy ensures expert holiday recommendations for clients seeking authentic experiences.
Sarah Sharland
Sardinia Specialist
Based in Sardinia for over 20 years, Sarah combines local expertise with English service standards. She provides insider knowledge on Sardinian culture, cuisine, and hidden gems. Her personal connections ensure clients receive exceptional service and authentic regional experiences during their stay.
Ian Styan
Italy Expert
With over 20 years living in Italy, Ian brings deep regional knowledge and practical advice. He established Essential Italy's extensive property network and maintains quality standards. His understanding of visitor needs ensures tailored recommendations for memorable Italian holidays.
Louise Turner
Holiday Consultant
Louise provides personalized service based on extensive knowledge of all properties. Her travel experience across Italy enables accurate matching of client requirements with suitable accommodations. She ensures seamless arrangements from initial inquiry to holiday completion with professional, friendly support.
Chris Barber
Puglia Specialist
Based near Ostuni, Chris offers expert insights into Puglia's culture and attractions. His long-term residence in the region provides authentic recommendations for dining, sightseeing, and local experiences. He ensures clients receive comprehensive guidance for exploring Puglia's unique offerings during their stay.
Questions
How does your property selection process work?
We personally inspect and handpick all properties based on quality standards, location, and authentic Italian character. Our team regularly visits properties to ensure continued excellence.
Which Italian regions do you cover?
We offer accommodations in Tuscany, Umbria, Puglia, Sardinia, Sicily, and other popular Italian destinations with expert regional knowledge and local contacts.
Can you accommodate special requests?
Yes, we tailor recommendations based on specific requirements including group size, accessibility needs, and preferred activities to ensure perfect holiday matches.
Do you offer travel assistance during holidays?
Yes, we provide 24/7 support and local contact details in Italy to assist with any needs during your stay.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit cards and bank transfers. Full payment details and secure processing options are provided during booking.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellation terms vary by property but we provide clear information at booking. We recommend travel insurance to protect against unforeseen circumstances.
