With its rich countryside, world-renowned artwork, and historical significance, Italy is a great place to visit. You can visit the famous David in Florence, see where the gladiators fought in Ancient Rome, or drink limoncello on the beach in Positano. The options are endless.
However, before you pack your bags, it’s important to understand cultural nuances and what you may need. Check out our guide below to learn more.
Getting to Italy
1. Get a Passport
The first step in planning an international trip is getting a passport. Be sure that your passport also does not expire in 6 months, otherwise, you will likely not be allowed to enter.
2. EITAS Authorization (starting in 2026)
The US does not currently require a VISA to travel to Europe. However, the EU has been hinting that it will change. Currently, it is slated to start by the end of 2026.
Please note: The EITAS authorization Visa is a continuously evolving situation, so be sure to check the status before you go.
Budgeting and Money
3. Get Euros
Many small vendors and shops may not accept credit cards or be reluctant to do so. Also, as noted below, bathrooms typically cost one or two Euros to use.
For this reason, it’s a good idea to obtain some foreign currency before heading out on your trip.
Transportation
Airport
4. Major Airports for Getting to Italy
There are several major airports that make it easy to get to Italy
Rome Leonardo da Vinci Airport
Rome has the biggest airport in all of Italy and one of the biggest in Europe. It’s located about 20 miles outside of the city center and can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour to get to the main part of town.
Milan Malpensa Airport and Milan Linate Airport
There are two airports in Milan, with Milan Malpensa Airport servicing international planes and Milan Linate Airport for European or domestic flights.
Naples International Airport
Naples is the closest airport to the Amalfi Coast, making it a popular airport for those traveling to that region.
Train
5. Use the Train
The train is going to be the easiest mode of transportation, and in most cases, we recommend avoiding renting a car. There are two kinds of trains:
- Italo: This train is owned by a private organization
- Trenitalia: This train line is operated by the state.
Both options are great and offer high-speed rail. Which you choose will depend on your final destination and the time you’d like to arrive.
Pro Tip: The machines in the train terminal only service one or the other, so be sure you are using the correct one.
6. Validate Your Train Ticket
It’s not enough to get your ticket at the train station. You will need to ensure it is validated before hopping on. There are machines at the train station for you to validate your ticket (The ink may not show very well). If you have a question on this, be sure yo ask someone in uniform.
7. Don’t Talk to Strangers (Unless in Uniform) at the Train Station
Even if you get confused with the ticket machines, only ask those in uniform for help. If you do, you risk being subject to a scam, which could involve pickpockets pretending to be helpful.
The train station does employ people who will help you with the machines. They will be wearing official uniforms affiliated with the train company they work for (either Italo or Trentalia).
8. Be aware of strikes
Strikes are common in Italy and can impact both train and airport services. Being aware of when strikes occur will make it easier for you to rework your plans if needed.
Cars & Taxis
9. Avoid ZTLs (Limited Traffic Zones)
ZTLs are usually located in city centers and have specific rules for which vehicles can drive through and win. Signs can be really confusing and fines are hefty if you break the rules.
10. You Will Need an IDL
Italy requires an International Driver’s License for anyone without a European Driver’s License. Luckily, these can be easily obtained through AAA. However, don’t forget your driver’s license at home. You will need both in order to drive.
11. Use Metered Taxis (or Uber)
You should never use a taxi that doesn’t charge via a meter and this is true in Italy as well. Italy also now offers Uber, so you can order taxis that way if you prefer.
Logistics
12. Language
Most of Italy speaks Italian, although northern provinces speak German. However, many Italians (particularly in tourist-heavy areas) speak really good English. We recommend learning a few words, but it’s not necessary to get around.
13. Weather & When to Visit
Italy is a warm climate, making the summertime too hot for many people. However, many sites around touristy destinations will also be closed during the winter months, so we recommend the shoulder season for a visit (September + October or April + May)
14. Get the Right Converters
Getting the right converters for your trip is much easier before you leave, so make sure to add this item to your international travel checklist. Voltage in Italy is 230V and 50Hz, so make sure your devices are compatible. For Converters, you will need converters that are compatible with Type C and Type L sockets
15. Don’t Talk to Friendly Strangers with “Free” Items
Scammers will act friendly and make it seem like you are getting the item for free. One of the most common ones is someone trying to put a bracelet on your wrist. In this case, walk the other way. They will require you to pay for it.
16. Watch out for Pickpockets (Major Cities)
In big cities, there is a risk of pickpockets. We’ve never had a problem while in Italy, but you will just need to be vigilant (espcially on nights out).
17. Stores are Closed on Sundays and at Midday
The majority of stores will be closed on Sundays (Exceptions may apply for tourist shops in the city center). Many stores will also honor a midday break, known as riposo (This is generally between 1-4).
18. Public Bathrooms Cost Money
The idea of a public paying bathroom (which you will see throughout Europe) dates back to Emperor Vespason. He ruled for about a decade, beginning in 69 AD. As part of his rule, he piloted what became known as the public urine tax in Rome. As a result, these public bathrooms are still called Vespasiani by locals. These bathrooms are typically relatively clean and only cost about 1 or 2 Euros to use. Bathrooms in coffee shops and restaurants will still be free.
Sightseeing
19. Book Sites in Advance
Major sites, such as the Uffizi Gallery, the Scavi Tour (at the Vatican), the Tour of the Underground at the Colosseum and the Vatican Museum, can sell out in advance or result in long lines if you choose to wait.
On a tour of the Underground at the Colosseum. This is where the gladiators stood!
20. Cover the Shoulders and Knees in Churches
Some of the best art in Italy exists in churches. One of the benefits of housing such exquisite art here is that it is often cheap (if not free) to see these pieces. However, you will need to ensure knees and shoulders are covered. This means no spaghetti straps or shorts. If you forget, you won’t be allowed in or you will need to pay a fee to a hustling street vendor selling shawls.
The Duomo in Florence
The Ectasy of St. Theresa in Rome
21. Recommended Cities and Areas to Explore
Italy is full of amazing places to visit, so we recommend adding a few of these to your list:
Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is famous for its beautiful views, beaches, and charming towns. If you are looking for a relaxing stay (filled with plenty of hiking), this is the perfect stay.
Positano
Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius
Take a step back in time, by exploring the ancient city of Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius. We also recommend traveling to Naples to see the Mosaics, which have since been removed from Pompeii.
Rome
With sites such as the Colosseum and the Vatican Museum, Rome is the perfect destination for history and art enthusiasts alike.
Tuscany
If you are looking to drink great wine, enjoy the Italian landscape or explore the museums of Florence, Tuscany is the right place for you. There are numerous towns to explore including Siena, San Gimignano, and Volterra.
Venice
Venice is well known for its canals, which are used to get through the city. The entire town is pedestrian-only and filled with alleys to explore and get lost in.
Venice
Restaurants
22. Dinner is Often Late
Italians eat dinner late, and most of the authentic restaurants won’t open until 7 pm or even later.
Pro Tip: If you are really hungry and can’t wait for these restaurants to open up, many of the tourist areas will cater to early dinner times.
23. Water and Refills Costs Money
In the US, it’s common to drink tap water. This is less common throughout Europe, so water will cost money when you go out to eat.
Free refills are also common in the US and less common in Italy (and throughout the rest of Europe). Usually, they will give you a can of soda instead of using a soft drink machine.
24. Different Regions have Different Specialities
While everyone knows that Italy is known for its pizza and pasta, every region has specialties that you should try. Below are a few for your consideration:
- Amalfi Coast: The Amalfi Coast is well-known for its lemons. Consider trying a lemon sorbet or a limoncello.
- Florence: Ribollita is a hearty breaded soup
- Lombardy Region: My favorite wine, the Blood of Judas, is from this region. We recommend trying this if you like sweet wine.
Limoncello and lemon sorbet in Positano
25. Tipping
Tipping isn’t required in Italy, but it’s still common to leave 10% for good service
26. Avoid Tourist Traps
The tourist hubs will often have restaurants that are open earlier, since they cater to those from out of town. However, if you are looking for an authentic experience, you will need to avoid the most touristy parts of the city.
26. Don’t be Surprised by the Coperto Charge
Many restaurants will add a “coperato” charge to your bill. This is meant to cover the bread and table.
Final Thoughts
Italy is an amazing country to visit. From its influence on art, history, and politics, there is so much to see. Any other tips we missed? Leave them in the comments.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Days Do I Need in Italy?
You can spend months in Italy without being able to explore the entire country. However, a week is enough time to see some major sites in big cities.
Which is Better: Rome or Florence?
If you have to choose between Rome and Florence, which you will like better will depend on your interests. Rome has sites related to Ancient Rome and the Vatican Museum. It’s also a big city with a lot to do. Florence is smaller and quieter, but it has rich landscapes and some of the best art from the Renaissance.
However, it is very easy to get from Rome to Florence, especially with high-speed rail, so we recommend doing both if you have time!
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