Suggerimento 4224
visite 4529
Video
Read This Before Your First Italy Trip, Things you should know before going to Italy that will help you tremendously and make your trip a little smoother. Things You Should Know Before You Travel to Italy Visiting Italy for the first time, tips you must know!
From big cultural faux pas to seemingly minuscule things
This is a must for any country you visit.
If you can, it would be useful to learn at least a few phrases such as how to ask for directions, how to ask the price of something, the correct forms of excuse me, please and thank you, and perhaps even how to say you have an allergy to certain foods or medications in case of an emergency.
Although most large tourist cities in Italy have plenty of English speakers, never underestimate how something as small as a courtesy in the local language can go a long way. It might even save your life.
First Things First Maps of Italy, basic Italy information, making an Italy budget
What to Do Italy itinerary suggestions, Italy holiday calendar, Italy guided tours
Getting There Finding cheap flights to Italy, looking for Italy travel deals
Getting Around Italian trains, Italian buses, driving in Italy
Weather & Packing Weather averages for Italy by month/season, what to pack for Italy
Where to Go Italian regions, major Italian cities
What to Eat Italian gelato, pasta, coffee, vineyards, Italian food markets, tipping in Italy
What to Say Italian language tips, fun Italian swear words......
A first time trip to Italy is pretty exciting and totally incredible; that’s a given.
Though, with so many of the best places in Italy to visit on a first trip, it can get pretty overwhelming when you’re in that planning stage.
From the gorgeous towns of Southern Italy (yes, I am naming you; Matera), cities like Florence and Naples, the Amalfi Coast to Cinque Terre, you’re gonna be spoilt with heaps of choice on places in Italy to visit.
Italy is a country steeped in history, culture and mountains of delicious pasta and the best gelato spots on every street.
Whether you’re looking for the more iconic places to visit, or somewhere a little less known, you’ll be spoilt for choice when planning a trip to Italy.
Bell'Italia! Italy has Europe's richest, craziest culture.
After all, this nation is the cradle of European civilization established by the Roman Empire and carried on by the Roman Catholic Church.
As you explore Italy, you'll stand face-to-face with some of the world's most iconic images from this 2,000-year history: Rome's ancient Colosseum and playful Trevi Fountain, Pisa's Leaning Tower, Florence's Renaissance masterpieces (Michelangelo's David and Botticelli's Venus), and the island city of elegant decay — Venice.
Beyond these famous sights, though, Italy offers Europe's richest culture. Traditions still live within a country that is vibrant and fully modern.
Go with an eye open to both the Italy of the past and of the present.
Europe’s most enticing country, Italy charms visitors with irresistible food, awesome architecture, diverse scenery and unparalleled art. In fact, it's so packed with possibilities it can almost overwhelm.
Some italian places
Amalfi Coast
Assisi
Capri
Cinque Terre
Civita di Bagnoregio
Dolomites
Florence
Italian Lakes
Italian Riviera
Lucca
Milan
Naples
Orvieto
Pisa
Pompeii & Herculaneum
Ravenna
Rome
Sicily
Siena
Sorrento
Tuscan Hill Towns
Tuscany
Venice
Rome
A day: Rome wasn’t built in one, and you certainly can’t see it in one.
Instead allow at least two, preferably three.
That’s time to take in the spectacular Colosseum, the 2000-year-old Pantheon, the palace ruins of the Palatino, sacred St Peter's and the art-filled Vatican Museums. Trot up the Spanish Steps, toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain, shop in narrow lanes and indulge in prime people watching.
Florence and Tuscany region of art and wine
Two days in Florence sees you cherry-picking the incomparable art in the Uffizi gallery, delighting in the frescoes in the Duomo and pondering the anatomy of Michelangelo's David. It also allows for shopping on the ultra-chic Via de' Tornabuoni and an aperitivo (pre-dinner drink) or two in locals' favourite Piazza della Signoria.
Venice
To enjoy unique, utterly exquisite Venice, allow a few days. Glide down the Grand Canal, by gondola or vaporetto (water bus), tour the grand Palazzo Ducale, gape at the treasure-filled Basilica di San Marco and run out of camera space snapping the extraordinary array of Venetian architecture.
Naples & Pompeii
Gritty and not always pretty, Naples demands to be seen. Come here for an anarchic zest for life, a Unesco-recognised historic core, Greco-Roman artefacts in the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, and the Neapolitan Baroque Certosa e Museo di San Martino.
Venice Dreamy island city, powerful in medieval times; famous for St. Mark's Basilica, the Grand Canal, and singing gondoliers.
Cinque Terre Five idyllic Riviera hamlets along a rugged coastline (and part of a national park), connected by scenic hiking trails and dotted with beaches.
Florence The cradle of the Renaissance, with the world-class Uffizi Gallery, Brunelleschi's dome-topped Duomo, Michelangelo's David, and Italy's best gelato.
Siena Florence's smaller and (some say) more appealing rival, with its magnificent Il Campo square, striking striped cathedral, and medieval pageantry.
Rome Italy's capital, the sprawling Eternal City, studded with Roman ruins (Forum, Colosseum, Pantheon), romantic floodlit-fountain squares, and home to Vatican City and the astonishing Sistine Chapel.
Milan Powerhouse city of commerce and fashion, with the prestigious La Scala opera house, Leonardo's The Last Supper, and three airports.
Heart of Tuscany Picturesque, wine-soaked villages of Italy's heartland, including mellow Montepulciano, Renaissance Pienza, and Brunello-fueled Montalcino.
Assisi St. Francis' hometown, perched on a hilltop, with a divinely Giotto-decorated basilica.
Orvieto and Civita More hill-town adventures, featuring Orvieto's classic views, Classico wine, and ornate cathedral plus pint-sized, hilltop village of Civita di Bagnoregio.
Naples Gritty, in-love-with-life port city featuring vibrant street life and a top archaeological museum starring the treasures from ancient Pompeii.
Amalfi Coast and Paestum String of seafront villages including hilly Positano and workaday Amalfi tied together by a scenic mountainous coastal road.
Farther south is Paestum, with its well-preserved ancient Greek temples.
Pompeii and Nearby Famous ruins of the ancient towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum, with their nemesis, Mount Vesuvius, looming on the horizon.
The Lakes Two relaxing lakes, each with low-key resort towns and a mountainous backdrop:
Lake Como, with quaint Varenna and upscale Bellagio; and Lake Maggiore, with straightforward Stresa, manicured islands, and elegant villas.
This is the beauty of Italy.
Those coastal towns with coloured buildings climbing high on steep mountains above the beach? They exist.
Those stripy-shirted Venetian gondoliers singing love songs to the besotted couples in their care? They exist.
All those centuries-old Roman ruins, those stone villas, those olive groves, those vineyards, those pavement restaurants with the chequered tablecloths and the beautiful food, those gelaterias, those cathedrals filled with worshippers, those piazzas filled with regulars?
They all exist. And they're all amazing.
The great thing about Italy is that it’s worth visiting at any time of the year.
Whether you’re coming over for the Christmas holidays or during the Summer months, there is always something to do.
All the main tourist areas are worth visiting even with bad weather or in the wrong season; for example there’s beauty in the Cinque Terre even in December.
That being said, the best time to visit Italy is usually in autumn or spring.
Many cities have drastic weather changes between the summer and winter with hot summers and snowy winters.
So visiting during the shoulder seasons will allow you to experience milder weather.
Plus, the visiting in the “off-season” means being able to enjoy a less crowded, more authentic view of the destination.
Southern Italy and even northern cities like Milan can get pretty unbearably hot in the summer months of June and August.
So, make sure that you stay in a hotel with air conditioning.
It’s best to visit Venice during the early winter, because the stagnant water in the canals can give off a bad smell in the summer.
February is also a good time to visit Venice if you want to experience the famous Carnevale Festival! In August, aside from the heat, the big cities can be less crowded because Italians go on holiday during this month.
Places along the coast are typically very crowded with tourists as well as Italians escaping from the city heat.
Food is extremely provincial
This is a lesson most people learn the hard way when they order spaghetti carbonara in Florence because, hey, it's Italian.
But that's not how Italy works.
Pretty much all of the dishes the country is famous for are only specialties of certain regions, which is why you need to do your homework and know what to order.
Go for bistecca in Florence, salumi and Parmiggiano in Bologna, carbonara in Rome, risotto in Milan, pizza in Naples, arancini in Sicily, seafood in Calabria, and orecchiette in Puglia.
Even certain words differ between regions – while most of Italy orders a "cappuccino e cornetto" for breakfast, around Milan it's a "cappuccio e brioche".
Some attractions are extremely overrated…
You could be forgiven for rolling up at the Spanish Steps in Rome and assuming you were in the wrong spot.
What's so great about these things? Why are they so famous?
It's just a staircase. Some people are even disappointed by the Leaning Tower of Pisa. It's a tower with a slight lean – got it. And don't get us started on "Juliette's balcony" in Verona.
The coperto is a per-person fee due in many restaurants across Italy and it basically means cover charge.
This fee usually includes bread for the table.
Train travel is a breeze
Train travel within Italy is extremely easy (skip the domestic flights) and trains tend to be fairly on-time.
The official websites are here: TrenItalia and Italo.
Trenitalia is state-run, and Italo is privately-operated.
Both operate high-speed trains in Italy.
Purchasing your ticket: Trains don’t tend to be fully sold out especially if you are paying for a premium cabin seat, if you’re feeling extra wary about missing a train then head to the station a little bit early or purchase your ticket online ahead of time. Tickets can also be bought at the station from the counter or self-service machine.
Validate your ticket: This is one of the most important things to know about traveling to Italy – Make sure you validate your ticket before hopping on the train!
You can do this by inserting the ticket into one of the validation machines scattered along the train platform. In general, you have to validate if a seat is not assigned, but if you want to play it safe just validate every. single. ticket. We have been fined in the past for having a perfectly valid and legit ticket – it just wasn’t “validated”.
The only exception is Italo train tickets which do not need to be validated – just give the conductor your booking code.
You don’t have to book a hotel in the city you’re visiting
During the peak season, hotel rates can be extremely expensive, especially if you’re visiting popular cities and regions like Venice, Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast.
Don’t order insalata verde and expect anything more than a bowl of lettuce
Take it from us and learn from our mistakes.
Normally, house or green salads in the States have varied vegetables included, so I was not prepared for just a bowl of romaine lettuce..
Don’t make special requests when ordering at a restaurant
Italians usually take things as listed on the menu and you don’t want to be the annoying foreigner who asks for special items.
However, they are becoming more accustomed to vegans and vegetarians, so this shouldn’t be an issue when ordering at most of the restaurants frequented by tourists.
When browsing menus and deciding where to eat, pay attention to the “Il coperto” (cover charge)
The cover charge varies from restaurant to restaurant (usually a few Euros).
This charge is often listed at the bottom of the menu.
This way you won’t be surprised when you get the bill.
Transportation strikes are common in Italy, so give yourself plenty of time if you need to catch a flight
One of our best tips for traveling to Italy: don’t be shocked if there is a strike of some sort that may affect your travel plans! It’s not uncommon for Italians to have train strikes, taxi strikes or bus strikes.
Strikes have become a part of the culture and way of life in Italy.
Most strikes are announced ahead of time so you can usually plan around them.
Just be sure to pay attention to signs in the local train stations about any upcoming strikes.
Electricity Socket: 230V, 50Hz AC electricity.
Power outlets are usually two-prong round but may accept a three-prong, grounded plug. Be sure to pack a universal travel adaptorso you can still use all your electronic gadgets.
Safety: Italy, like most of Europe, is a generally safe country.
Particularly in cities, there is a higher risk of petty theft or scams but having your wits about you will keep you as safe as possible.
As a Western power, Italy and its major cities such as Rome and Milan remain at risk of terror but the risk is moderate and should not deter travel.
Italy is a volcanic country with a warm, Mediterranean climate and is therefore at risk of earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and fires from time to time. However, by paying attention to weather reports, it is easy to stay safe.
As always, we highly recommend getting travel insurance beforehand.
We recommend either World Nomads or Safety Wing, depending on the type of traveler you are.
Language: Italy’s primary language is Italian.
English is widely understood in larger cities and tourist destinations but will not be spoken in smaller, rural villages.
Visa: Italy is a member of the European Union and signatory of the Schengen convention.
This entitles all EU passport holders, currently including the UK, to unlimited visa-free travel, and countries given permission by the Schengen agreement such as the USA and New Zealand to 90 days travel visa-free.
Any other nationality will need to apply for a Schengen visa in order to travel the country.
The best time to go is April to June.
You can visit Italy all-year round and have a fantastic time. However, if you want to avoid the masses of people that flock here during the high season, it is better to go in the months where the weather is a lot cooler. During peak season, prices also skyrocket, especially in places like Rome, Florence, and the Amalfi Coast.
Make Copies!
Whenever you travel internationally, always make copies of everything you have in your wallet, especially a colored copy of your passport – if you lose it, it’s that much easier if you have your number and a copy on you.
All hotels ask you to show your passports as you check in, and in some cases they insist on holding onto your passport till you check out.
Hotels in Italy Are Different
A few things to know about hotels in Italy:
Like many hotels in Europe, the rooms, beds and baths are smaller.
Nowhere in Italy was I able to find a washcloth.
The hotels just don’t have them.
So if you like to scrub yourself in the shower or bath, bring your own washcloth (BYOWC).
Most hotels insist you leave your room key with them and not take it out on your excursions.
So remember to lock your stuff up in the room safe.
The voltage is different so you have to bring a converter, but unless your hairdryer or iron curler is pretty up to date it will burn out fast.
Luckily they had hairdryers in most of the rooms.
Water Is Free and Yummy
It’s simple: You will walk a lot in Italy. And if you walk a lot, you will get thirsty.
You can buy bottled water, carry a camelback like I did, or you can drink from the fountains you’ll find in the public squares from Sicily to Siena. Yes, the fountain water is drinkable.
And it’s cool, refreshing and free.
Don’t Get Ripped Off by Fake Taxis
Just like any city, you can get ripped off it you do not know the difference between a gypsy cab and a legit one.
The legit ones have meters and are white. Their fee will start at different rates depending on how far they came to get you.
Know the Rules of the Tourist Attractions
Whether you want to visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Vatican museums, the Uffizi or any other famous Italian attraction, make sure you know the deal.
Italy’s climate is one of the most hospitable in the world, with a general pattern of warm, dry summers and mild winters. There are, however, marked regional variations, ranging from the more temperate northern part of the country to the firmly Mediterranean south. Summers are hot and dry along the coastal areas, especially as you move south, cool in the major mountain areas – the Alps and Apennines. Winters are mild in the south of the country, Rome and below, but in the north they can be at least as cold as anywhere in the northern hemisphere, sometimes worse, especially across the plains of Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna.
Electricity
The supply is 220V, though anything requiring 240V will work. Plugs either have two or three round pins: a multi-plug adapter is very useful.
Entry requirements
British, Irish and other EU citizens can enter Italy and stay as long as they like on production of a valid passport. Citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand need only a valid passport, too, but are limited to stays of three months. All other nationals should consult the relevant embassy about visa requirements. Legally, you’re required to register with the police within three days of entering Italy, though if you’re staying at a hotel this will be done for you.
Gay and lesbian Italy
Homosexuality is legal in Italy, and the age of consent is 16.
Attitudes are most tolerant in the northern cities: Bologna is generally regarded as the gay capital, and Milan, Turin and Rome all have well-developed gay scenes; there are also a few spiagge gay (gay beaches) dotted along the coast: the more popular gay resorts include Taormina and Rimini.
Laundries in Italy
Coin-operated laundries, sometimes known as tintorie, are rare outside large cities, and even there, numbers are sparse; see the “Directory” sections of the main city accounts for addresses.
Italy travel tips and advice: Twenty things that will surprise first-time visitors to Italy
https://www.traveller.com.au/italy-travel-tips-and-advice-twenty-things-that-will-surprise-firsttime-visitors-to-italy-gox5za
Italy Travel Tips: Everything You Need To Know Before Visiting
https://ordinarytraveler.com/tipsarticles/italy-travel-tips
Complete guide to the Country ITALY
https://www.adventureinyou.com/travel-guides/italy-travel-tips/
Important Travel Tips for Visiting Italy
https://www.travelingmom.com/destinations-international/20-important-tips-for-traveling-in-italy/
Travel Tips Italy for planning and on the go Start planning your tailor-made travel to Italy with a local expert
https://www.roughguides.com/italy/travel-advice/
Italy Travel Guide by Rick Steves Rick Steves www.ricksteves.com Explore Italy!
Get inspired with Rick Steves' recommended places to go and things to do, with tips, photos, videos, and travel information on Italy.
If you're passionate about Renaissance art, linger longer in Florence.
Exploring Italy's hill towns could soak up a week.
For mountains, make tracks to the Dolomites.
If you've always wanted to ascend Pisa's Leaning Tower, now's the time for the climb...
https://www.ricksteves.com/europe/italy
https://www.ricksteves.com/europe/italy/itinerary
Best Places In Italy To Visit On A First Trip
https://handluggageonly.co.uk/2016/07/13/11-impressive-places-that-every-first-time-visitor-to-italy-must-see/
Planning your first trip to Italy
If you’ve not visited before you could well wonder what to see? Where to go How to travel? All you need to know to get the absolute utmost out of your first trip to Italy.
https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/planning-your-first-trip-to-italy
Things to know when traveling to Italy
https://www.yogawinetravel.com/14-things-you-should-know-before-you-travel-to-italy/
http://italy4travellers.com/italy-first-timers-must-read-10-travel-tips/
https://www.italylogue.com/featured-articles/italy-first-time-visitor-guide.html
From big cultural faux pas to seemingly minuscule things
This is a must for any country you visit.
If you can, it would be useful to learn at least a few phrases such as how to ask for directions, how to ask the price of something, the correct forms of excuse me, please and thank you, and perhaps even how to say you have an allergy to certain foods or medications in case of an emergency.
Although most large tourist cities in Italy have plenty of English speakers, never underestimate how something as small as a courtesy in the local language can go a long way. It might even save your life.
First Things First Maps of Italy, basic Italy information, making an Italy budget
What to Do Italy itinerary suggestions, Italy holiday calendar, Italy guided tours
Getting There Finding cheap flights to Italy, looking for Italy travel deals
Getting Around Italian trains, Italian buses, driving in Italy
Weather & Packing Weather averages for Italy by month/season, what to pack for Italy
Where to Go Italian regions, major Italian cities
What to Eat Italian gelato, pasta, coffee, vineyards, Italian food markets, tipping in Italy
What to Say Italian language tips, fun Italian swear words......
A first time trip to Italy is pretty exciting and totally incredible; that’s a given.
Though, with so many of the best places in Italy to visit on a first trip, it can get pretty overwhelming when you’re in that planning stage.
From the gorgeous towns of Southern Italy (yes, I am naming you; Matera), cities like Florence and Naples, the Amalfi Coast to Cinque Terre, you’re gonna be spoilt with heaps of choice on places in Italy to visit.
Italy is a country steeped in history, culture and mountains of delicious pasta and the best gelato spots on every street.
Whether you’re looking for the more iconic places to visit, or somewhere a little less known, you’ll be spoilt for choice when planning a trip to Italy.
Bell'Italia! Italy has Europe's richest, craziest culture.
After all, this nation is the cradle of European civilization established by the Roman Empire and carried on by the Roman Catholic Church.
As you explore Italy, you'll stand face-to-face with some of the world's most iconic images from this 2,000-year history: Rome's ancient Colosseum and playful Trevi Fountain, Pisa's Leaning Tower, Florence's Renaissance masterpieces (Michelangelo's David and Botticelli's Venus), and the island city of elegant decay — Venice.
Beyond these famous sights, though, Italy offers Europe's richest culture. Traditions still live within a country that is vibrant and fully modern.
Go with an eye open to both the Italy of the past and of the present.
Europe’s most enticing country, Italy charms visitors with irresistible food, awesome architecture, diverse scenery and unparalleled art. In fact, it's so packed with possibilities it can almost overwhelm.
Some italian places
Amalfi Coast
Assisi
Capri
Cinque Terre
Civita di Bagnoregio
Dolomites
Florence
Italian Lakes
Italian Riviera
Lucca
Milan
Naples
Orvieto
Pisa
Pompeii & Herculaneum
Ravenna
Rome
Sicily
Siena
Sorrento
Tuscan Hill Towns
Tuscany
Venice
Rome
A day: Rome wasn’t built in one, and you certainly can’t see it in one.
Instead allow at least two, preferably three.
That’s time to take in the spectacular Colosseum, the 2000-year-old Pantheon, the palace ruins of the Palatino, sacred St Peter's and the art-filled Vatican Museums. Trot up the Spanish Steps, toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain, shop in narrow lanes and indulge in prime people watching.
Florence and Tuscany region of art and wine
Two days in Florence sees you cherry-picking the incomparable art in the Uffizi gallery, delighting in the frescoes in the Duomo and pondering the anatomy of Michelangelo's David. It also allows for shopping on the ultra-chic Via de' Tornabuoni and an aperitivo (pre-dinner drink) or two in locals' favourite Piazza della Signoria.
Venice
To enjoy unique, utterly exquisite Venice, allow a few days. Glide down the Grand Canal, by gondola or vaporetto (water bus), tour the grand Palazzo Ducale, gape at the treasure-filled Basilica di San Marco and run out of camera space snapping the extraordinary array of Venetian architecture.
Naples & Pompeii
Gritty and not always pretty, Naples demands to be seen. Come here for an anarchic zest for life, a Unesco-recognised historic core, Greco-Roman artefacts in the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, and the Neapolitan Baroque Certosa e Museo di San Martino.
Venice Dreamy island city, powerful in medieval times; famous for St. Mark's Basilica, the Grand Canal, and singing gondoliers.
Cinque Terre Five idyllic Riviera hamlets along a rugged coastline (and part of a national park), connected by scenic hiking trails and dotted with beaches.
Florence The cradle of the Renaissance, with the world-class Uffizi Gallery, Brunelleschi's dome-topped Duomo, Michelangelo's David, and Italy's best gelato.
Siena Florence's smaller and (some say) more appealing rival, with its magnificent Il Campo square, striking striped cathedral, and medieval pageantry.
Rome Italy's capital, the sprawling Eternal City, studded with Roman ruins (Forum, Colosseum, Pantheon), romantic floodlit-fountain squares, and home to Vatican City and the astonishing Sistine Chapel.
Milan Powerhouse city of commerce and fashion, with the prestigious La Scala opera house, Leonardo's The Last Supper, and three airports.
Heart of Tuscany Picturesque, wine-soaked villages of Italy's heartland, including mellow Montepulciano, Renaissance Pienza, and Brunello-fueled Montalcino.
Assisi St. Francis' hometown, perched on a hilltop, with a divinely Giotto-decorated basilica.
Orvieto and Civita More hill-town adventures, featuring Orvieto's classic views, Classico wine, and ornate cathedral plus pint-sized, hilltop village of Civita di Bagnoregio.
Naples Gritty, in-love-with-life port city featuring vibrant street life and a top archaeological museum starring the treasures from ancient Pompeii.
Amalfi Coast and Paestum String of seafront villages including hilly Positano and workaday Amalfi tied together by a scenic mountainous coastal road.
Farther south is Paestum, with its well-preserved ancient Greek temples.
Pompeii and Nearby Famous ruins of the ancient towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum, with their nemesis, Mount Vesuvius, looming on the horizon.
The Lakes Two relaxing lakes, each with low-key resort towns and a mountainous backdrop:
Lake Como, with quaint Varenna and upscale Bellagio; and Lake Maggiore, with straightforward Stresa, manicured islands, and elegant villas.
This is the beauty of Italy.
Those coastal towns with coloured buildings climbing high on steep mountains above the beach? They exist.
Those stripy-shirted Venetian gondoliers singing love songs to the besotted couples in their care? They exist.
All those centuries-old Roman ruins, those stone villas, those olive groves, those vineyards, those pavement restaurants with the chequered tablecloths and the beautiful food, those gelaterias, those cathedrals filled with worshippers, those piazzas filled with regulars?
They all exist. And they're all amazing.
The great thing about Italy is that it’s worth visiting at any time of the year.
Whether you’re coming over for the Christmas holidays or during the Summer months, there is always something to do.
All the main tourist areas are worth visiting even with bad weather or in the wrong season; for example there’s beauty in the Cinque Terre even in December.
That being said, the best time to visit Italy is usually in autumn or spring.
Many cities have drastic weather changes between the summer and winter with hot summers and snowy winters.
So visiting during the shoulder seasons will allow you to experience milder weather.
Plus, the visiting in the “off-season” means being able to enjoy a less crowded, more authentic view of the destination.
Southern Italy and even northern cities like Milan can get pretty unbearably hot in the summer months of June and August.
So, make sure that you stay in a hotel with air conditioning.
It’s best to visit Venice during the early winter, because the stagnant water in the canals can give off a bad smell in the summer.
February is also a good time to visit Venice if you want to experience the famous Carnevale Festival! In August, aside from the heat, the big cities can be less crowded because Italians go on holiday during this month.
Places along the coast are typically very crowded with tourists as well as Italians escaping from the city heat.
Food is extremely provincial
This is a lesson most people learn the hard way when they order spaghetti carbonara in Florence because, hey, it's Italian.
But that's not how Italy works.
Pretty much all of the dishes the country is famous for are only specialties of certain regions, which is why you need to do your homework and know what to order.
Go for bistecca in Florence, salumi and Parmiggiano in Bologna, carbonara in Rome, risotto in Milan, pizza in Naples, arancini in Sicily, seafood in Calabria, and orecchiette in Puglia.
Even certain words differ between regions – while most of Italy orders a "cappuccino e cornetto" for breakfast, around Milan it's a "cappuccio e brioche".
Some attractions are extremely overrated…
You could be forgiven for rolling up at the Spanish Steps in Rome and assuming you were in the wrong spot.
What's so great about these things? Why are they so famous?
It's just a staircase. Some people are even disappointed by the Leaning Tower of Pisa. It's a tower with a slight lean – got it. And don't get us started on "Juliette's balcony" in Verona.
The coperto is a per-person fee due in many restaurants across Italy and it basically means cover charge.
This fee usually includes bread for the table.
Train travel is a breeze
Train travel within Italy is extremely easy (skip the domestic flights) and trains tend to be fairly on-time.
The official websites are here: TrenItalia and Italo.
Trenitalia is state-run, and Italo is privately-operated.
Both operate high-speed trains in Italy.
Purchasing your ticket: Trains don’t tend to be fully sold out especially if you are paying for a premium cabin seat, if you’re feeling extra wary about missing a train then head to the station a little bit early or purchase your ticket online ahead of time. Tickets can also be bought at the station from the counter or self-service machine.
Validate your ticket: This is one of the most important things to know about traveling to Italy – Make sure you validate your ticket before hopping on the train!
You can do this by inserting the ticket into one of the validation machines scattered along the train platform. In general, you have to validate if a seat is not assigned, but if you want to play it safe just validate every. single. ticket. We have been fined in the past for having a perfectly valid and legit ticket – it just wasn’t “validated”.
The only exception is Italo train tickets which do not need to be validated – just give the conductor your booking code.
You don’t have to book a hotel in the city you’re visiting
During the peak season, hotel rates can be extremely expensive, especially if you’re visiting popular cities and regions like Venice, Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast.
Don’t order insalata verde and expect anything more than a bowl of lettuce
Take it from us and learn from our mistakes.
Normally, house or green salads in the States have varied vegetables included, so I was not prepared for just a bowl of romaine lettuce..
Don’t make special requests when ordering at a restaurant
Italians usually take things as listed on the menu and you don’t want to be the annoying foreigner who asks for special items.
However, they are becoming more accustomed to vegans and vegetarians, so this shouldn’t be an issue when ordering at most of the restaurants frequented by tourists.
When browsing menus and deciding where to eat, pay attention to the “Il coperto” (cover charge)
The cover charge varies from restaurant to restaurant (usually a few Euros).
This charge is often listed at the bottom of the menu.
This way you won’t be surprised when you get the bill.
Transportation strikes are common in Italy, so give yourself plenty of time if you need to catch a flight
One of our best tips for traveling to Italy: don’t be shocked if there is a strike of some sort that may affect your travel plans! It’s not uncommon for Italians to have train strikes, taxi strikes or bus strikes.
Strikes have become a part of the culture and way of life in Italy.
Most strikes are announced ahead of time so you can usually plan around them.
Just be sure to pay attention to signs in the local train stations about any upcoming strikes.
Electricity Socket: 230V, 50Hz AC electricity.
Power outlets are usually two-prong round but may accept a three-prong, grounded plug. Be sure to pack a universal travel adaptorso you can still use all your electronic gadgets.
Safety: Italy, like most of Europe, is a generally safe country.
Particularly in cities, there is a higher risk of petty theft or scams but having your wits about you will keep you as safe as possible.
As a Western power, Italy and its major cities such as Rome and Milan remain at risk of terror but the risk is moderate and should not deter travel.
Italy is a volcanic country with a warm, Mediterranean climate and is therefore at risk of earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and fires from time to time. However, by paying attention to weather reports, it is easy to stay safe.
As always, we highly recommend getting travel insurance beforehand.
We recommend either World Nomads or Safety Wing, depending on the type of traveler you are.
Language: Italy’s primary language is Italian.
English is widely understood in larger cities and tourist destinations but will not be spoken in smaller, rural villages.
Visa: Italy is a member of the European Union and signatory of the Schengen convention.
This entitles all EU passport holders, currently including the UK, to unlimited visa-free travel, and countries given permission by the Schengen agreement such as the USA and New Zealand to 90 days travel visa-free.
Any other nationality will need to apply for a Schengen visa in order to travel the country.
The best time to go is April to June.
You can visit Italy all-year round and have a fantastic time. However, if you want to avoid the masses of people that flock here during the high season, it is better to go in the months where the weather is a lot cooler. During peak season, prices also skyrocket, especially in places like Rome, Florence, and the Amalfi Coast.
Make Copies!
Whenever you travel internationally, always make copies of everything you have in your wallet, especially a colored copy of your passport – if you lose it, it’s that much easier if you have your number and a copy on you.
All hotels ask you to show your passports as you check in, and in some cases they insist on holding onto your passport till you check out.
Hotels in Italy Are Different
A few things to know about hotels in Italy:
Like many hotels in Europe, the rooms, beds and baths are smaller.
Nowhere in Italy was I able to find a washcloth.
The hotels just don’t have them.
So if you like to scrub yourself in the shower or bath, bring your own washcloth (BYOWC).
Most hotels insist you leave your room key with them and not take it out on your excursions.
So remember to lock your stuff up in the room safe.
The voltage is different so you have to bring a converter, but unless your hairdryer or iron curler is pretty up to date it will burn out fast.
Luckily they had hairdryers in most of the rooms.
Water Is Free and Yummy
It’s simple: You will walk a lot in Italy. And if you walk a lot, you will get thirsty.
You can buy bottled water, carry a camelback like I did, or you can drink from the fountains you’ll find in the public squares from Sicily to Siena. Yes, the fountain water is drinkable.
And it’s cool, refreshing and free.
Don’t Get Ripped Off by Fake Taxis
Just like any city, you can get ripped off it you do not know the difference between a gypsy cab and a legit one.
The legit ones have meters and are white. Their fee will start at different rates depending on how far they came to get you.
Know the Rules of the Tourist Attractions
Whether you want to visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Vatican museums, the Uffizi or any other famous Italian attraction, make sure you know the deal.
Italy’s climate is one of the most hospitable in the world, with a general pattern of warm, dry summers and mild winters. There are, however, marked regional variations, ranging from the more temperate northern part of the country to the firmly Mediterranean south. Summers are hot and dry along the coastal areas, especially as you move south, cool in the major mountain areas – the Alps and Apennines. Winters are mild in the south of the country, Rome and below, but in the north they can be at least as cold as anywhere in the northern hemisphere, sometimes worse, especially across the plains of Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna.
Electricity
The supply is 220V, though anything requiring 240V will work. Plugs either have two or three round pins: a multi-plug adapter is very useful.
Entry requirements
British, Irish and other EU citizens can enter Italy and stay as long as they like on production of a valid passport. Citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand need only a valid passport, too, but are limited to stays of three months. All other nationals should consult the relevant embassy about visa requirements. Legally, you’re required to register with the police within three days of entering Italy, though if you’re staying at a hotel this will be done for you.
Gay and lesbian Italy
Homosexuality is legal in Italy, and the age of consent is 16.
Attitudes are most tolerant in the northern cities: Bologna is generally regarded as the gay capital, and Milan, Turin and Rome all have well-developed gay scenes; there are also a few spiagge gay (gay beaches) dotted along the coast: the more popular gay resorts include Taormina and Rimini.
Laundries in Italy
Coin-operated laundries, sometimes known as tintorie, are rare outside large cities, and even there, numbers are sparse; see the “Directory” sections of the main city accounts for addresses.
Italy Travel Tips Planning & Places Selected websites:
https://theculturetrip.com/europe/italy/articles/17-italy-travel-tips-that-might-save-your-life/Italy travel tips and advice: Twenty things that will surprise first-time visitors to Italy
https://www.traveller.com.au/italy-travel-tips-and-advice-twenty-things-that-will-surprise-firsttime-visitors-to-italy-gox5za
Italy Travel Tips: Everything You Need To Know Before Visiting
https://ordinarytraveler.com/tipsarticles/italy-travel-tips
Complete guide to the Country ITALY
https://www.adventureinyou.com/travel-guides/italy-travel-tips/
Important Travel Tips for Visiting Italy
https://www.travelingmom.com/destinations-international/20-important-tips-for-traveling-in-italy/
Travel Tips Italy for planning and on the go Start planning your tailor-made travel to Italy with a local expert
https://www.roughguides.com/italy/travel-advice/
Italy Travel Guide by Rick Steves Rick Steves www.ricksteves.com Explore Italy!
Get inspired with Rick Steves' recommended places to go and things to do, with tips, photos, videos, and travel information on Italy.
If you're passionate about Renaissance art, linger longer in Florence.
Exploring Italy's hill towns could soak up a week.
For mountains, make tracks to the Dolomites.
If you've always wanted to ascend Pisa's Leaning Tower, now's the time for the climb...
https://www.ricksteves.com/europe/italy
https://www.ricksteves.com/europe/italy/itinerary
Best Places In Italy To Visit On A First Trip
https://handluggageonly.co.uk/2016/07/13/11-impressive-places-that-every-first-time-visitor-to-italy-must-see/
Planning your first trip to Italy
If you’ve not visited before you could well wonder what to see? Where to go How to travel? All you need to know to get the absolute utmost out of your first trip to Italy.
https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/planning-your-first-trip-to-italy
Things to know when traveling to Italy
https://www.yogawinetravel.com/14-things-you-should-know-before-you-travel-to-italy/
http://italy4travellers.com/italy-first-timers-must-read-10-travel-tips/
https://www.italylogue.com/featured-articles/italy-first-time-visitor-guide.html
| Tipo di cucina | --- |
| Classificazione | * (one star) low budget hotel |
Domande Risposte - Login Required
Nessuna.
