Experiences tied to the so-called Golden Hour are gaining momentum worldwide. More and more travelers are structuring their daily itineraries around experiencing destinations at precisely the moment when light, mood, and atmosphere reach their peak. GetYourGuide highlights the most sought-after "dusking" experiences around the globe.
The hours around sunset
The classic sightseeing day is getting a compelling new highlight: the hours around sunset. Rather than rushing to check off attractions early in the day, many travelers are intentionally choosing the evening hours, when cities and landmarks are bathed in warm light and their character transforms entirely. Italy, with its unique blend of history, architecture, and landscape, becomes the ideal stage for this new approach to travel. From this shift emerges the growing trend of "dusking": scheduling activities around sunset to experience destinations at a slower pace, with greater intensity and a distinctive atmosphere. Data from GetYourGuide shows that bookings for evening experiences among German travelers have risen year over year by 21 percent. The Golden Hour is increasingly becoming a fixed element of modern travel planning.
Italy is where this concept truly comes into its own
Francesca de Falco, Regional Manager Italy & Malta at GetYourGuide, says: "We're seeing that travelers are choosing their time of day more and more based on atmosphere. Places like the Colosseum in Rome feel completely different at sunset than they do during the day, and it's exactly that atmosphere that is increasingly becoming the decisive factor." The "dusking" trend opens up a fresh perspective on familiar destinations: less pressure to follow a packed schedule, higher quality experiences, and moments that stand out deliberately from the usual flow of the day. Italy in particular is where this concept truly comes into its own, as few countries combine light, culture, and landscape as impressively.
The most beautiful "dusking" experiences in Italy
Venice
Experience Venice's iconic landmarks as the city is bathed in soft evening light, with the "After-Hours" VIP Tour of St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. Explore the magnificent rooms of the Doge's Palace and step inside St. Mark's Basilica once the daytime visitors have gone. With exclusive access and expert guided tours, the art, architecture, and history of Venice can be savored in a uniquely calm and unhurried atmosphere.
Rome
The Eternal City reveals a new side of itself on the Colosseum Sunset Tour . As the crowds thin out and the heat of the day fades, experienced guides lead visitors through the ancient amphitheater. While the Golden Hour washes the arches and the arena floor in warm light, the history of Rome can be absorbed without any rush, a moment to pause and take it all in.
Florence
In Florence, an exclusive after-hours tour of the Duomo offers a truly special experience at sunset. After entering without waiting in line, the ascent to the famous dome reveals stunning frescoes and spectacular views across the city. With expert guides on hand, visitors gain insight not only into the architectural history surrounding Brunelleschi's masterpiece, but also into the Duomo itself in a quiet, almost private atmosphere. With access to areas normally off-limits, such as the terraces and the empty interior, the experience builds to an unforgettable climax at the moment the cathedral is closed for the night.
Catania / Etna
At Etna near Catania sunset becomes a powerful encounter with nature. The guided tour leads from the fertile surroundings through lava fields up to the Silvestri Craters at around 6,600 feet above sea level. Along the way, local guides share insights into the volcanic history and offer special experiences such as exploring a lava cave or tasting regional products. As the sun slowly sets, the stark volcanic landscape transforms into an intense play of colors, turning the moment into an unforgettable "dusking" experience.
Lake Como
A an evening boat tour on Lake Como reveals the famous region at its most atmospheric. From the water, serene views open up over towns such as Tremezzo, Lenno, and Bellagio, while the soft light of dusk bathes the shoreline in warm colors. Drifting past historic villas, small harbors, and elegant promenades, a relaxed mood takes hold that lets visitors experience the lake far from the daytime crowds, a quiet, pleasurable close to the day. The "dusking" trend illustrates just how profoundly travel is changing right now: away from simply ticking off sights, toward deliberately chosen moments. Italy offers ideal conditions for this and proves once again that it is not only about the "what" but, above all, about the "when."