The recent achievements in the characterization of layered chalcogenides with different degree of interlayer communication, such as metal ditellurides and misfit layer compounds, has prompted several authors to examine their intercalation behaviour. The research studies reported in the literature have a three-fold aim: a more detailed comprehension of the intercalation phenomena by using host lattices with structural complexity; an evaluation of the structural and reactivity effects of interlayer interactions during the insertion process; and the possible applications of the intercalation products in advanced areas, such as energy storage devices and superconducting solids. Here, an overview is given of the research work carried out since 1991 on the intercalation properties of misfit layer sulfides and selenides and transition metal ditellurides.