First-time travelers to Italy often have many questions to ensure they have a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some answers to some questions you may find helpful:
When is the best time to visit Italy?
My very first trip to Italy was in mid-July. It was SO hot. They were having record high temperatures in southern Italy. I remember walking through Pompeii with the sun beating down on the top of my head and thinking, I could probably fry an egg on the top of my head right now. So, nowadays when I am making plans to vacation in Italy, I plan my visit during one of the shoulder months, May, June or September. You’ll enjoy beautiful days and pleasant weather, plus there will be fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months. Now, I realize that many people travel with kids and Summer is the best time to go, so if that is the case, don’t let it stop you. Italy should not be missed, but just prepare for some warm days.
What clothing should I pack for a trip to Italy?
- Pack comfortable walking shoes. I cannot emphasize this enough: PACK COMFORTABLE WALKING SHOES!!! Make sure you’ve broken in the shoes prior to your trip. You’ll likely be doing a lot of sightseeing on foot.
- If you plan to visit any religious sites, be sure to pack some modest clothing.
- Loose fitting, lightweight fabrics are your friend.
Is it necessary to learn Italian before traveling to Italy?
Many Italians in tourist areas speak some English. While it’s not necessary to be fluent, learning a few basic phrases in Italian can enhance your experience and help with common interactions.
What are the must-see destinations in Italy?
Rome (Colosseum, Vatican, Trevi Fountain), Florence (Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Piazza Michaelangelo, Accadamia Gallery), Amalfi Coast/Sorrento/Capri, Lake Como, Venice, Cinque Terre, Tuscan Towns (Siena, Cortona, San Gimignano, Pienza, Montepulciano). That’s just the highlights (in my opinion). There is so much to see in Italy that I recommend visiting southern Italy first and coming back again in the future to see northern Italy.
What entry documents do I need when visiting Italy?
- As of late-2024, US citizens will be required to complete an online Visa application through the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). Travelers will need to provide personal information, travel documents, and answer security and health-related questions. It takes about 10 minutes to complete online.
- A passport is also required to enter Italy. The important thing to remember regarding your passport is that the expiration date must be 6-months beyond the date of your last day in Italy. You will not be allowed to board your departing flight if your passport does not meet these requirements. So, for example, if your last day in Italy is 5/1/25, then your passport must have an expiration date after 11/1/25. It is a strange rule, but they do enforce it.
What is the tipping etiquette in Italy?
A small service charge called “coperto” is often included in your bill at restaurants. This covers bread and table settings and can range from €1 to €3 per person. If the service charge is not included, it’s common to round up the bill. For example, if the bill is €46, you might leave €50. For great service, leaving 10% of the bill is considered generous.
Other tipping standards: Bellman €1-2 per bag, housekeeping €2-3 per day, taxi driver 5%, and tour guides 10%.
What are some important technology items to bring?
- A portable power bank is essential for keeping your devices charged on the go.
- Be sure you have a couple of travel adapters that are compatible with Italian plug types.
- Download maps and apps in advance of your visit. A translation app can be very useful.
- Local SIM Card or International Roaming Plan.
What about safety concerns?
Italy is generally a safe country for tourists. Having visited many times, there has never been an occasion where I have felt unsafe. However, do be very aware of pickpockets. My husband and I were targeted but we were prepared, so they were unsuccessful. A friend of mine wasn’t so lucky. Stay vigilant in crowded areas. Don’t keep your wallet in your back pocket and if you carry a handbag, keep it on your front side, not just slung over a shoulder.
Be sure to take more than one credit card, just in case you encounter fraud. Use ATM’s at banks if at all possible.
What is the best way to get around in Italy?
Italy has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, including trains, buses, regional flights, and boats. High-speed trains connect major cities, and local buses and trains service smaller towns and cities. Renting a car is also an option, especially for exploring the countryside. I’ve done them all, but here are a few suggestions:
- I would not suggest renting your own car when visiting the Amalfi Coast, but instead relying on public transportation for this area. There are steep cliffs, parking challenges, and crazy drivers.
- To avoid getting a ticket when traveling by train, be sure to validate your ticket at the end of the platform before boarding.
- During most train journeys, there will be several stops along the way. Since luggage is often stored in racks near the car entry doors, we make it a habit to get up from our seats and stand by our luggage at each stop. While it may be a bit inconvenient, I’ve read that a common tactic for thieves is to grab luggage just as the doors are closing.
- In Italy, many towns and cities have restricted access zones known as Zona a Traffico Limitato (ZTL), which means “Limited Traffic Zone.” These areas are designed to reduce traffic congestion in historic centers and busy areas. Unauthorized vehicles entering a ZTL can incur significant fines. So, be sure to do a little internet research in advance of visiting a town, to identify where you can drive and park.
Do I need to bring Euros or can I get them in Italy?
You have both options available. You can exchange currency at airport exchange booths or withdraw Euros from ATMs throughout Italy. Personally, I prefer to order Euros through my bank before traveling and take them with me.
Is it necessary to purchase travel insurance?
I highly recommend purchasing travel insurance. I’ve used it twice. The first time, our dog Mojo wound up in the hospital, but thankfully, we had purchased “cancel for any reason” trip insurance. The second time we used it was when our luggage got lost and we had to purchase a bunch of new stuff. The trip insurance covered much of those expenses. So, if you ask me, it’s definitely worth it.
Are there any must try food and beverages while in Italy?
Amalfi Coast (Limoncello), Bologna (Fresh Pasta Bolognese and Gelato), Tuscany (Wild Boar Ragu), Rome (Carbonara and Pizza), Florence (Tuscan wines), Naples (Pizza), Venice (Aperol Spritz), Milan (Risotto Milanese), Sicily (Arancini and cannoli), Piedmont (Barolo wine), Genoa (Pesto Gnocchi).
Is it necessary to prebook tickets and make advance reservations at restaurants?
Yes! It is a very good idea to prebook busy tourist activities such as the Colosseum, Vatican, Capri boat tours, etc. I also search tripadvisor.com for restaurant recommendations near my accommodation and then reach out to make advance dinner reservations. That way we’re guaranteed to have a seat in the best restaurants, and I can always cancel if something else comes up.
Are there any last-minute things to remember before I go?
When traveling abroad, I always take copies of our credit cards and passports and leave them in the care of a family member back in the states. That way I’m not panicking if something turns up lost or stolen. Because many of us have important passwords stored in our phones, I also leave behind any important passwords that I might need on the fly if my phone happens to be stolen.