Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Italy: 30 Must-Know Insights

Italy is among the most picturesque nations to visit in Europe, if not the world. My admiration for this country is nearly as profound as my affection for chocolate-flavored treats, a sentiment I feel no compunction to apologize for!

A few of my preferred locations include the stunning Tuscan towns, the spectacular Cinque Terre, and the charming canals of Venice. Beyond the desire to explore its renowned cities, one must consider the various factors involved in planning a trip to Italy, prompting me to share some insightful recommendations worth contemplating before embarking on your journey!

1.) You’ll get lost

Being lost in Italy (especially navigating perilous mountain roads like those in Cinque Terre) is not always as delightful as it may sound. Even if the notion appeals to you, it is prudent to download an offline map application on your smartphone (or utilize the offline feature of Google Maps). This will prove invaluable when traversing the winding streets of Venice, Florence, and virtually any Tuscan village you encounter.

2.) Italy is more than just the mainland

Italy offers a vast array of experiences beyond its continental landmass. While ‘the boot’ represents a notable portion, countless small (and sizeable) islands await exploration. Consider visiting places like Sicily, Sardinia, Elba, and Levanzo, to name just a few of the numerous Mediterranean islands ready for discovery.

3.) Gelato is too delicious to ignore

The gelato found in Italy is arguably among the finest globally. It is a bold assertion, but I have yet to find another country that surpasses it. Gelato is readily available on most streets, often at reasonable prices, making it the perfect indulgence after a substantial lunch!

4.) Drink for free

Cities such as Rome, Florence, and Venice offer ample drinking water in town squares, which is clean and safe. It is advisable to bring a reusable water bottle or refill an existing store-bought bottle, allowing you to save a significant sum during your visit.

5.) Dinner isn’t rushed

In Italy, particularly in the southern regions, dinner is characterized as a leisurely event meant to be enjoyed with family and friends. Embrace this cultural norm and take your time to savor the experience.

6.) Card payments are okay

Card payments are widely accepted throughout Italy. It is advisable to carry a few coins and small notes for minor purchases, as certain establishments may impose minimum spending requirements.

7.) Italy’s got some impressive beaches!

Italy offers more than the city landscapes of Florence, Milan, and Venice. Be sure to explore one of the countless beautiful beaches along its extensive coastline. Consider destinations like Terracina for pristine white sand beaches.

8.) Trains are great!

For intercity travel, the train is an excellent option. Italy boasts an impressive high-speed rail system connecting major cities, including Rome, Florence, and Venice.

9.) Validate train/bus tickets

When traveling by train or bus, ensure to validate your ticket at the designated machines onboard. Failure to do so may result in fines, regardless of prior knowledge or notification. Ticket validation machines are available on all public trains and buses, and typically at the beginning of train platforms.

10.) The north and south are very different

The northern and southern regions of Italy offer remarkably distinct experiences. The north boasts an ‘industrialized’ European atmosphere, while the south encapsulates a more relaxed Mediterranean charm, with each region being equally captivating.

11.) There are volcanoes in Italy

Indeed, Italy is home to some remarkable (and still active) volcanoes awaiting exploration. Notably, one can undertake hikes on these volcanic peaks, similar to the iconic Mt. Etna located on Sicily!

12.) Pompeii

Speaking of volcanoes, have you heard of Pompeii? This ancient city was obliterated by a volcanic eruption long ago. You can visit this UNESCO World Heritage site and learn about one of the most well-known volcanic eruptions in history (second only to the Icelandic ash cloud of 2010, of course).

13.) Learn some basic Italian

While fluency in Italian is not a requirement for visitors, it is certainly advantageous! Learning a few essential phrases can greatly enhance your experience and is sure to elicit smiles from the locals.

14.) Cover up in religious sites

Many religious sites require female visitors to cover their shoulders and legs. Be mindful of this guideline when visiting sacred locations, particularly in the Vatican (technically not part of Italy, I understand, yet still relevant…).

15.) Truffle Hunt

Truffles are highly regarded in Italy, being valuable components in numerous Italian dishes and are often sourced from specific regions. If you plan to go truffle hunting (learn more about truffle hunting here), ensure you head straight to the market, as they can command prices reaching thousands of euros (depending on their size, of course).

16.) Cinque Terre are the 5 towns you must see

As the name suggests, Cinque Terre translates to 5 lands/regions and is one of Italy’s most stunning areas. Make sure to include a visit to these towns if you are in the vicinity.

Note: It is advisable to use the train for traveling between the towns; it only takes a few minutes by train versus over an hour by car!

Refer to our Complete Guide To Cinque Terre for more information

17.) Make wine your tipple of choice!

Wine in Italy is relatively inexpensive yet of excellent quality. Take advantage of the affordable prices and savor one of Italy’s joyful exports! Quality wines can be found starting at approximately €3 per bottle.

18.) Summer and winter can be quite extreme here

Italian summers can be exceedingly hot, while winters may present a stark contrast with frigid temperatures, especially in the northern regions. It is worth noting that temperature variations can be quite pronounced depending on the time of year you choose to visit, so arriving well-prepared is advisable.

19.) Tuscany is the best place for steak

Indulge in a generous Florentine steak while in Tuscany, and experience one of the finest steaks available worldwide. While it may set you back a bit compared to an average meal, the experience is undeniably worthwhile. Portions are typically quite large, so sharing is recommended unless you possess a particularly large appetite.

20.) A gondola can be costly

Hiring a gondola in Venice for a 30-minute ride can be quite expensive. Although standard rates apply, it’s worth noting that you can negotiate for a better deal with the gondoliers. Rental prices should be based on the boat rather than the number of passengers, allowing up to 6 people for a ride. While it may not seem as romantic, it remains equally entertaining!

21.) Get your EHIC Card

For EU citizens, possessing a FREE EHIC card is essential. This government-issued card entitles you to equivalent health care benefits while traveling in Italy. However, it is important to remember that it should not be considered a substitute for travel insurance.

22.) Eat pizza

This is the one nation where you can enjoy freshly baked pizza without any sense of guilt! You can find delightful pizza options from nearly every small vendor in various towns throughout Italy. The best places for an authentic slice are typically located in quieter streets, away from bustling squares and the usual tourist spots.

A slice is affordable and generally quite delicious. (It ranks far superior to even the most extravagant offerings from fine dining restaurants back in London; it is simply incomparable).

23.) You can ski in Italy

Many people are unaware that skiing is an option in Italy, as the country is often associated with glorious summer days. However, if you enjoy skiing, the Italian Alps offer stunning runs and numerous resorts that equal those famous in Switzerland and France.

24.) Cappuccino is for breakfast

Customarily, cappuccino is considered a breakfast beverage in Italy. For those unable to forego their usual cappuccino in the evening, a latte (hot milk vs. frothed milk) serves as an alternative.

25.) There are countries inside Italy!