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Home » Europe » Italy » ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Italy | Destinations & Tips for 2024

ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Italy | Destinations & Tips for 2024

Solo travel in Italy is legendary. It’s typically at the top of everyone’s dream destination list, solo or not; and for good reason. The boot-shaped country literally has so much to offer, and solo, you can discover it all.

Now, I know Italy isn’t often labeled as the ultimate solo destination, but that’s because whoever makes those stupid lists doesn’t know what I do. They prefer to sell honeymoon dreams and beach bungalows. But for the adventurous, curious, and independent travelers, this guide to Italy is about to blow your socks off.

You don’t need a travel buddy, a new husband, or a wife and two kids to experience the better parts of this destination. (Especially the two kids part!) All you need is your passport, an empty stomach, and some dang good walking shoes, ’cause you’re about to double your step count.

Italy is full of some of the best hostels in Europe. They have tons of group tours for you to learn about the country and meet others.

And who knows, maybe a local will pick you up on their Vespa, and you’ll get to live out your Lizzie McGuire dreams. Either way, this ultimate guide to solo travel in Italy has got it all, so let’s get started.

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8 Things to Do in Italy When Traveling Solo

4 best solo destinations in italy, the best travel apps for solo travel in italy, safety tips for solo travelers in italy, tips for solo travelling in italy, final words for your solo italy trip.

There are so many things you can do when traveling Italy solo, but lucky for you, I’ve narrowed it down to the best ones. This’ll help you meet other travelers without missing out on any culture or history.

Without further ado, here are the top eight things to do in Italy as a solo traveler.

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1. Go Wine Tasting in Tuscany

Italian wine is the cream of the crop. And when it comes to wine tours in Italy , well, they’re golden.

Regardless of if you like red or white, Italy is about to have you drinking the whole bottle by yourself. And there is no better place to try the liquid gold than in Tuscany.

While I wouldn’t necessarily put Tuscany on my must-visit list for solo travelers in Italy, it’s so close to Florence that you can do a day trip. This tour will pick you up from your hotel, and you’ll join other travelers as you head into the Italian countryside.

You’ll sip on different wines, tour the vineyards, and get an authentic taste of Italy. (And the wine definitely helps in the making friends department.)

2. Eat Pizza in Naples

Of course, pizza is popular in all of Italy, but nowhere does it quite like Naples. And I know Naples gets a bad rap as a travel destination… But personally, for solo travelers who like to discover alleyways and hidden gems, Naples is your gal.

Naples is full of Italian culture, with sidewalk cafes, bustling street life, and, of course, pizza. You can’t leave Naples without trying some authentic wood-fired oven pizza.

One of the best ways to do this is by joining a food walking tour . You’ll get to try more than just pizza, but head to local spots that only locals know about.

And you’ll get to do it all while making new friends; trust me, it’s worth the money. This HAS to be on your Naples itinerary .

3. Take a Walking Tour Through Rome

Walking tours are one of the best ways to see a city, and you don’t need anyone to do it with you. For the most part, just about everyone that travels to Rome is headed out on some kind of tour to visit the Colleseum, learn about the Romans, and see the Trevi Fountain.

Personally, I think a small group tour is the way to go, you won’t be overwhelmed by crowds, and it’s a perfect way to make friends. Plus, you’ll learn so much more about the city than if you were just wandering on your own. And if you’re staying in a hostel, a lot of times they’ll offer a walking tour so you can join other solo travelers in Rome.

4. Ride in a Gondola in Venice

Who says Venice has to be for couples? Not me!

Riding a Gondola in Venice is just as magical on your own. It seems like Venice is so romanticized that people forget you’ll be surrounded by loads of tourists, and that warm, fuzzy, lovey-dovey feeling is quickly halted as you weave through the crowds.

While it might be tempting to just walk everywhere in Venice, especially since it’s not that big, a Gondola ride is totally worth it. And if you’re solo, you can usually join up with another small group or couple to split the cost of the ride cos Venice ain’t cheap. So go ahead and embrace your solo status in Venice and enjoy a peaceful and charming ride through the canals.

5. Take an Italian Cooking Class

Cooking classes are one of my favorite activities as a solo traveler. And with Italian food being the beacon of deliciousness, why not take a cooking class in Italy? You’ll get to learn about the culture and history behind dishes like pizza and pasta, as well as pick up some new skills.

Some classes also include a visit to a local market where you can learn about different ingredients, and it’s super helpful if you don’t speak Italian but want to know all the little trade secrets. It’s also the perfect way to meet others. Spending 3-4 hours in the kitchen with a group of strangers will quickly turn into a meal with friends by the end of it.

6. Taste as Many Gelatos as You Can

There is no such thing as too many Gelatos. The best part about traveling solo is there is quite literally no one to tell you that you’ve had enough, or maybe 10 AM is too early for a sweet treat. Gelato is the epitome of Italian desserts, and with so many different flavors, you have to have at least one a day.

If you’re in Rome, try this dessert tour through the city. It’s perfect for trying the best espressos, gelatos, and out of the freaking world, tiramisus. It’s also where I learned the air-whipping lie (below).

Pro Tip: Avoid any place that has their Gelato piled high. This usually means it’s been whipped with air and will have a less rich flavor.

Opt for places with flatter displays. The gelato is usually denser and more flavorful. I know it doesn’t look as pretty for your Instagram stories, but your tastebuds will thank you.

7. Go on a Day Trip to the Leaning Tower of Pisa

I know we all like to think we are above the tacky tourist pics, but I say fuck it and have some fun.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is an iconic destination and an easy day trip from Rome or Florence. Plus, it’s a great excuse to get out of the city for a bit and explore more of Italy’s beautiful countryside.

While you can visit the site on your own by train, as a solo traveler in Italy, I highly recommend going on a day tour . You’ll have a few stops in between to see other destinations than just the tower.

Going on a tour will guarantee you’ll have someone to take cheesy pictures of you. Whether that’s holding up the tower, hugging the tower, eating the tower, or all the other ridiculous poses people come up with.

8. Admire Some Art in a Museum

Museums are a solo traveler’s best friend, and Italy has some epic museums for you to visit. The Uffizi Gallery , the Accademia Gallery , and the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City are a few of the must-visits. But, regardless of what city you’re in, there will be works of art for you to explore all on your own.

Italy is famous for its art, and you’ll be able to get up close and personal with some famous masterpieces. The best part about solo travel is being able to take your time, you aren’t on anyone else schedule.

So, spend your whole morning wandering through the halls of a gallery. Or if you want some company or maybe a more in-depth guide. You can always join a tour.

Solo travel in Italy is a little bit different than solo travel in more popular places like Southeast Asia or the gringo trail in Latin America.

Without a traditional route, your options are absolutely endless, so here are my top four destinations in Italy for solo travel.

Rome is one of the best destinations in Italy for solo travelers. Like any big city, it has so many options when it comes to things to do .

Days in Rome are usually spent pretty jam-packed with tours of famous sights like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps. You can spend all day running around on your own and won’t even notice you’re by yourself.

But it’s also the perfect city in Italy to meet people. Rome is bustling with locals who live in the city getting to and from work, but it’s also filled with expats and tourists.

So pretty much anywhere you go, you’ll meet others looking to explore the same sights or grab a rooftop drink. And with all of the amazing restaurants, it’s not hard to convince a new friend to join you for a cacio e pepe or a pizza.

It’s also one of the more affordable places to travel in Italy as a solo traveler. There is an abundance of hostels to choose from. You can grab antipasti for just a couple of euros, and the train system is well-connected to the rest of the country.

Prices on dorms have definitely risen since my backpacking days in Europe (cries in poor), but the Rome Hello Hostel is a great option. They have ping pong tournaments, some yoga classes, and plenty of beers going around to help you meet other solo travelers.

I know you wouldn’t typically think of Venice as a solo traveler’s destination, but I promise you it isn’t all romance and honeymooners like the travel industry wants you to believe. And you really only need two to three days to see all of Venice and a little more, so it’s the perfect little addition to an Italian itinerary.

There are a lot of things about Venice that I believe are tourist traps for those honeymooning and wanting to have the most perfect vacation. But if you’re willing to go with the flow, this little floating island has more than meets the eye. Getting lost in the different canals and stopping on side streets for a pastry and coffee really takes the art of traveling to a whole new level.

The city is so small you can see everything in no time. Not to mention you’ll be joined by thousands of tourists if you go in the summer – so how romantic can that really even be?

I went a few years ago as a solo traveler, and I seriously had the best time. I stayed at the Meininger Hostel in an all-girls dorm, which was filled with other solo girls deciding they weren’t waiting for anyone either. We joined at the hip and experienced Venice together and never felt like we were missing out because we were traveling solo.

Going to Florence is a must. It’s one of the most gorgeous cities in all of Italy, and you have to add it to your solo itinerary.

It’s right in the heart of the Tuscan hills, and it’s perfect for any traveler who loves art, history, and incredible food. Days in Florence are filled with museums, galleries, and lots of walking, ha! You can visit the famous Uffizi Gallery, where you can catch all the most important Renaissance art.

And while not everything to do in Florence is free, a lot of the museums are. So, if you’re on a tight budget, Florence is definitely calling your name.

It’s easy to get lost in the streets, and just about every other corner is a stunning view. I think Florence really catches people by surprise with its warmth and charm. But that’s what makes it the perfect destination for solo travelers.

There are a lot of great hotels to stay in Florence, but if you’re looking to meet people and also experience the Tuscan culture, then you have to stay at YellowSquare . They offer cooking classes and wine tastings and really show you all Florence has to offer.

I’ve never been somewhere and gotten all the local recommendations so quickly. If you like to not feel like a total tourist, this is your place.

I might be a bit biased because of how much fun I had in Naples, and maybe it’s because I’m a major foodie, but Naples slaps. The city is the gateway to the South, so if you’re headed to any of the famous Italian Islands, the ferry port in Naples is one of the best ways to get there.

The city is definitely not as pretty as Florence or Rome, but it’s got character and a lot of life. The people are hilarious, laid-back, and really friendly. One of the best things about Naples is that it’s not as touristy as other Italian cities, so you can really get a feel for what life is like for locals.

Close to Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius, Naples is also a great destination for solo travelers who love history and want to explore ancient ruins. And, of course, the freaking pizza, all the walking couldn’t even keep up with the amounts of whole pizzas I was shoveling in. But looking back, I wish I would have eaten more, ugh, it’s just so good!

I was shocked at the amount of good hostels in Naples . But after visiting, I really think this is the best destination for solo travelers in Italy. So of course, it would have awesome hostels.

My favorite was Ostello Bella Napoli . The staff was incredible, and even though it was big, it was easy to meet people in the common areas.

Here are some of the best travel apps that made my life a whole lot easier during my Italy solo trip.

• Google Maps – This is the most accurate way for you to get where you’re going in Italy. Download an offline map in case you don’t have a SIM or wifi.
• Google Translate – I don’t speak Italian, so having Google Translate helped me so much when I was dining in local eateries.
• Booking.com – Beds in Italy ain’t cheap, so make sure to use booking.com to get the best prices.
• Hostelworld – A great alternative to Booking.com.
• Trenitalia and Italo – These are the two main train companies in Italy. You can book directly with them for the best prices.
• Rick Steves Audio Europe – Walk around famous sights without booking a tour and still learn all about it with this app.
• GetYourGuide – Joining tours is one of the best ways to see a city and meet people at the same time.
• Couchsurfing – A dorm bed in Milan this past summer was 70 USD. SEVENTY!! So I had to think quickly, and couchsurfing was my go-to. It’s an app where you can stay with locals for free.
• Holafly – An e-SIM app to download a data-only SIM card without installing a physical card

Stop stressing about your phone service when you travel abroad.

Holafly is a digital SIM card that works smoothly like an app — you simply pick your plan, download it, and voilà!

Roam around Europe, but leave the roaming charges for the n00bies.

Attenzione pickpockets ! If you’ve been on your phone at all this summer, I know you’ve seen the famous Italian woman being every tourist’s hero as she calls out pickpocketers.

Unfortunately for us, this is only in Venice, and she might be a hero, but she isn’t magical. Italy is constantly known for being a pick pocketer haven, especially in the major cities.

So, all we can do is be mindful. Keep your things close, zip your bags, and keep them in front of you.

Don’t engage with strangers trying to get close to you, and somehow, these thieves will get a necklace right off you. So leave the expensive stuff at home!

If you’re going out drinking, be smart and don’t drink too much. I hate to say it, but even though Italian men can be very suave, they can also be very aggressive.

So, solo girlies , I highly advise you to go in pairs. And if you can meet guys at your hostel, bring them along. Better safe than sorry.

Here are som of my top tips for solo travelling in Italy.

• Stay in a hostel . For one, accommodation ain’t cheap, and booking a dorm bed can help save money. But it’s also one of the best ways to meet people and join hostel outings.
• Book tours on GetYourGuide . You can read reviews and know exactly what you are paying for.
• Don’t plan too much into your day ; things seem to always come up or take longer than you expected. This way, you leave room to explore and discover new places at your leisure.
• Learn some basic Italian phrases and be confident. Very rarely are people rude if you are at least trying.
• Do not skip out on ALL the touristy things . There is a reason they’re popular, so just embrace the cheesiness.
• You don’t have to do every single thing . There will always be something you miss, no matter how well-traveled you are. So pick out what’s most important to you and do those things.
• Buy good travel insurance , I know it’s annoying. But you know what’s more annoying? Needing it and not having it.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

All right, all that’s left to do now is pack! Your solo trip to Italy is about to be everything you’ve ever dreamed of. Pizza, pasta, gelatos… oh, and of course, the super famous World Wonder and a few other pretty cool historic places.

If this is your first solo trip ever, you’re in luck. Italy is full of opportunities for you to meet others and explore all on your own if you want. Just act like you know what you’re doing, and I promise you’ll be fine.

It’s a magical little country that will have you dreaming of all of your adventures for years in the future. I mean, look at me. I’m still frothing over a pasta dish I had at Mimi e Coco’s in Rome eight years later. (Yes, I highly recommend going there.)

Whether you’re headed to the north or south, Italy has everything you need for the ultimate solo trip. So get out there and explore, and remember, never say no to another slice of pizza.

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Darren Griffiths

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• 33 Fantastic Italy Solo Travel Destinations For Your Bucket List

Are you planning for Italy solo travel? Whether you are looking for a cute beach town or visiting one of the prettiest coastal villages, you are in the right place.

From famous cities to quiet fishing villages and hiking in the mountains, I have covered the best places to travel alone in Italy in this post.

Fellow travel bloggers recommend their favourites in this series of the best destinations for Italy solo travel, whether you are just starting solo travel or a seasoned solo traveler.

Italy is one of the safe destinations for traveling alone, and if you are looking for some of the safest places for solo travel in Italy, you will find that almost all of them are perfect for exploring alone.

Check out this list of the best destinations for traveling solo in Italy immediately!

If you are in a hurry, check out these top tours for your Italy Solo Travel:

Mount Etna: Guided Volcano Summit Hiking Tour with Cable Car

From Rome: Pompeii, Amalfi Coast and Positano Day Trip

From Matera: Sassi di Matera Tour with Entry to Cave Houses

Rome: Entire Vatican Tour & St. Peter’s Dome Climb

Rome: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and Basilica Tour

1-Hour Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Tuscany from Lucca

From Florence: Seaside Beauty Day Trip to Cinque Terre

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BEST DESTINATIONS FOR ITALY SOLO TRAVEL

Catania is a beautiful city located on the east coast of Sicily and is perfect for solo travelers looking for a mix of history, culture, and adventure. 

The Piazza del Duomo is a must-see attraction, surrounded by stunning buildings, including the Cathedral of Saint Agatha, the Palazzo degli Elefanti, and the fountain with the same name. 

The square also features a bustling market with local produce and crafts infiltrating one of the small lateral streets.

Castello Ursino, a medieval castle built in the 13th century, is now a museum showcasing the city’s history and surrounding area. 

For adventure seekers, Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, offers guided tours to the summit with breathtaking views.

Catania is a foodie’s paradise, famous for its street food, including arancini, cannoli, and granita. 

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You can find delicious food everywhere in the city, from small street vendors to upscale restaurants.

Traveling to Catania alone allows you to explore the city at your own pace, stroll through the city’s narrow streets, discover hidden gems, and soak up the local culture.

For solo travelers in Catania, it is essential to be cautious when walking alone at night in secluded areas, while the city centre is pretty safe. 

The public transportation system is efficient and affordable, the town is linked to the rest of the country by its airport, and learning basic Italian phrases can make communicating with locals easier.

Overall, Catania is an excellent destination for solo travelers offering stunning architecture, delicious food, and beautiful landscapes to explore alone.

By Odo,  Caribe Vibes

Naples is an incredible city on Italy’s beautiful Mediterranean coast. Naples has everything from mouthwatering cuisine to a wealth of historic sites which has earned it a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation.

Not only is Naples one of the most beautiful cities for Italy solo travel, it is also easy to explore alone since so many of its top attractions are in a compact area.

 You can easily walk around its historic centre and admire the incredible architecture.  

Visit the Piazza del Plebiscito and see the amazing buildings bordering the Piazza, the Royal Palace of Naples and the stunning San Francesco di Paola Basilica.

If you’re a history buff, you’ll want to visit the Naples National Archaeological Museum, filled with ancient Roman and Greek artefacts and a prominent Egyptian collection. 

Be sure to explore some of Naples’ historic fortresses. The seaside Castel dell’Ovo or the hilltop Castel Sant’Elmo has breathtaking panoramic views of Naples and the sea – and even Mount Vesuvius.

If you’re traveling solo, one of the  best things to do in Naples  is to take a food tour. 

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This is a great way to combine sightseeing while sampling some of the most delicious local cuisines – and you have a built-in group to share in the fun!

Most visitors arrive via the Naples International Airport, which is just a few miles from the historic heart of the city. 

Naples is also easy to reach by train, so you could even visit Naples on a day trip from Rome by train.

By Lisa Garrett, Waves and Cobblestones

Incredible Matera is one of the most spectacular cities in Italy. 

If you are traveling solo, Matera is among the best destinations for Italy solo travel. There are so many fun things to do in Matera for solo travelers. 

The Old City of Matera is a top unique destination in Italy. There is no other place in Italy like Matera. For the same reason, filmmakers love Matera. 

If you have watched Passion of Jesus Christ by Mel Gibson and James Bond’s No Time to Die, you will recognize the sites and landscapes of Matera. 

Both movies were filmed in Matera. Filmmakers love Matera. You will love it too! The entire Old City of Matera is carved into rocks and out of stones. 

Matera has hundreds of cave churches, cave homes, and stone-cut buildings (stone monasteries, stone palaces, and stone houses).

If you are a solo traveler, you will enjoy sleeping in a cave hotel, strolling ancient stone streets, touring rock churches, and zipping Aperol spritz in a rock-cut cafe bar.

Breathtaking Matera is near the city of Bari in southern Italy. It takes one hour from Bari Airport to Matera by car. 

Book your plane ticket to Bari, rent a car at the airport, and head to Matera on a  Puglia road trip . Visit charming Alberobello and gorgeous Ostuni on your way to Matera.

Book your stay in a cave hotel in Matera. Visit the iconic rock churches of Santa Maria de Idris church, Santa Lucia alle Malve church, and San Pietro Barisano church, and hike the trails of Parco della Murgia in Matera. 

Trust me, your trip to Matera will be one of the most memorable trips in Italy!

By Milijana, World Travel Connector

VATICAN CITY

When visiting Italy alone,  a day trip to Vatican City  is an experience that should not be missed. 

As the spiritual heart of the Catholic world and a treasure trove of art and history, the Vatican offers solo travellers the chance to immerse themselves in its rich cultural tapestry while making unforgettable memories.

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You can begin your journey at the awe-inspiring St. Peter’s Basilica, standing tall as the largest church in the world, and admire the stunning architecture and intricate mosaics. 

And if you’re up for a challenge, you can climb the 551 steps to the top of the dome for a breathtaking view of Rome. 

Quick Tip:  Don’t forget to get there early to avoid long queues, and consider hiring a guide to help uncover the basilica’s fascinating history.

Next, you can explore the vast collections at the Vatican Museums showcasing over 70,000 works spanning millennia. 

From ancient sculptures to contemporary paintings, there’s something for every art lover here. 

And of course, no visit to the Vatican would be complete without stepping into the iconic Sistine Chapel, where you can stand in awe beneath Michelangelo’s magnificent frescoes, including the famed Creation of Adam and The Last Judgment, and let yourself be transported through time by these powerful images. 

Quick Tip:  Pre-booking your tickets to Vatican Museums is essential (especially in the summer months), and opting for a guided tour will enrich your understanding of the masterpieces on display.

After soaking in the wonders of the Vatican, you may want to refuel at a local restaurant or café. 

For an authentic Italian experience, try Pizzarium Bonci or Il Sorpasso, both offering mouth-watering dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. 

Don’t forget to capture your culinary exploits and memories with photos in front of St. Peter’s Square or the Vatican Gardens.

As your day trip ends, you can take a leisurely stroll through Rome’s narrow lanes, where you can discover charming local shops and experience the true essence of Italian culture – ideally with a gelato in hand. 

With its rich history, artistic treasures, and unique sights (such as Swiss guards), a day trip to the Vatican will surely provide you with an unforgettable solo adventure in the heart of Italy.

By Goya Galeotta

The medieval  walled town of Lucca in Tuscany  is one of the loveliest places to see in Italy. 

While the world-famous cities and villages attract coachloads of day-trippers, Lucca remains relatively unknown, and one of the best places for Italy solo travel if you want to experience a slice of the country without much crowds.

A peaceful small town with a beautiful ambience encircled by perfectly conserved stone walls, it’s a great place to explore on your own.

These medieval walls make Lucca entirely unique as a wide boulevard runs along the top, making it the perfect spot for a stroll or cycle ride. 

From here, there are panoramic views of the countryside, as well as vistas over Lucca’s remarkable historical heart.

Lucca is easy to walk around, the network of ancient alleyways opening onto historic town squares lined with street cafés and cute little restaurants. 

Known as the ‘city of 100 churches’, St Martin’s Cathedral, the Church of Saint Reparata and Saint Giovanni Baptistery, San Michele in Foro, and the Basilica of San Frediano are the must-see holy temples.

Other attractions include the Renaissance palaces and towers. 

Climb up Guinigi Tower (with an oak garden on top), or Torre delle Ore clock tower, for more stunning views. 

Besides this, it’s fun to browse the quaint shops or just relax in one of the gardens.

While you can visit Lucca any time of year, it’s beautiful when the spring flower festivals are on. 

The holy Easter processions, and the candle-lit Luminaria di Santa Croce on September 13 are particularly atmospheric, although it will be crowded. 

In summer, it’s nice to rent a room in a villa (somewhere just outside town with a pool), and you can hire a bicycle to explore. 

The seaside resort of Viareggio is only 20 minutes away by train. In winter, the weather will be more relaxed but you’ll have Lucca to yourself with the locals!

Pisa or Florence are the nearest airports, and it’s simple to get to Lucca by train from these cities.

By Kali Marco, Kali Travel

One of the best places to go in Italy alone is Rome! This city is accustomed to all types of travellers with every interest and budget imaginable. 

Since it’s such a well-worn destination with millions of visitors annually, Rome is the perfect place for solo travellers. 

With endless things to see, do, and eat, the Eternal City is easy to navigate, safe to travel, and offers a bounty of cultural, historical, and downright awe-inspiring experiences. 

Plus, there’s never a chance of feeling isolated in such a vibrant, bustling city.

Solo visitors can walk around Rome and stop at historic sites, museums, and scenic lookout points. 

Plus, solo travellers won’t have to feel isolated when group tours are offered at every corner for famous places like the Colosseum, Vatican, and Roman Forum. 

However, there are also many  incredible free things to do in Rome  if budget is a factor.

Whether it’s seeking some peace and tranquillity at the Borghese Gardens, enjoying a morning coffee at any number of piazzas, or soaking in some amazing panoramic views of Rome, a solo traveller will relish the idea of exploring this ancient city on their own agenda.

While dining alone in Rome may seem intimidating in a culture that embraces large gatherings, solo travellers can join any number of food tours, meals (and drinks!) to go, or simply enjoy the solitude of sitting at a cosy restaurant enjoying some of the best food in the world.

By Sarah Camp , In Search of Sarah

Nestled in Italy’s Lombardy region lies  scenic Lake Como  – a perfect blend of natural beauty, Italian hospitality and historic charm. 

When most travelers picture Como, they think of 5-star hotels, luxurious boat cruises and George Clooney’s world-famous Italian villa. 

However, there’s another side to Lake Como that caters to backpackers, budget travelers and adventure-seekers of all ages, also making it one of the best Italy solo travel destinations.

Getting to Lake Como could not be easier. Simply fly into one of Milan’s three international airports and go to the Milano Centrale train station. 

From there, grab a ticket and hop on a quick train to Como San Giovanni. 

If you’re visiting Lake Como as a solo traveler, I highly recommend staying in the region’s best hostel – Hostel La Primula. 

It’s clean, affordable and flush with woodsy, lakeside charm. You might even meet a hiking buddy…or two!

When it comes to exploring, you’ll want to cross Lake Como’s three main towns off your list: Menaggio, Bellagio and Varenna. 

Each town boasts delicious seafood, scrumptious Italian wine and gorgeous lake views. 

Don’t leave Bellagio without strolling down the famous “Aperitivi Wine Bar” street (pictured below) and visiting the historic Pescallo fishing village. 

You won’t want to miss the stunning views from Castello di Vezio in Varenna – and bonus points if you follow them up with an ice-cold Aperol Spritz and stuffed squid from Osteria Quatro Pass. 

Strap on your hiking shoes for the San Martino hike in Menaggio and, if you have time, take the bus to Villa Balbianello – one of Lake Como’s most stunning villas and a Star Wars filming location. 

Be sure to pack your tripod! You won’t resist taking hundreds of pictures in stunning Lake Como. 

By Madison Krigbaum, Madisons Foot Steps

Bologna is a perfect destination for Italy solo travel, and there are plenty of unique  things to do especially for foodies . 

Long known as the “Culinary Capital of Italy”, the world-famous food draws visitors to the city year-round.

Located equidistant between Venice and Florence, the train is just an hour from each city, and the shuttle will get you from the Bologna airport to the Centro Storico in just 7 minutes.

The historic district of Bologna has much to see and do. 

With 25 miles of amazing porticoes (a UNESCO World Heritage site) throughout the historic area, strolling day or night at any time of year will keep you out of nasty weather. 

They are also softly lit and lined with shops and cafes making them safe when walking alone

Piazza Maggiore is a great place to start. Surrounded by shops, cafes, and historic sites, the piazza is the central gathering place for locals and visitors. 

Located here are the library with Roman ruins visible beneath the see-through floor, and the Asinelli Tower gives an incredible view of the city from its top floor.

For anyone visiting Bologna, the medieval Quadrilatero is a must. 

This is the oldest market in the city and retains a feeling of stepping back in time. Here you can enjoy any of the foods that Bologna is famous for. 

On one of the narrow lanes in the market is the Osteria del Sole which dates to the 15th century and is a great place to chat with locals over lunch and a glass of wine.

By Lori from Italy Foodies

An excellent place for Italy solo travel is the beautiful city of Milan.

Known as the fashion capital of the world, Milan has so much more to offer than just that. 

Between the historical sites, good eats, and perfect placement to visit other nearby places, Milan is a must-visit destination in Italy.

A perk about traveling alone in Milan is that you can cater your plans to your personal interests. For example, if shopping is your thing, there’s plenty of that to do. 

If it’s not, there are plenty of other things to do instead. Start by visiting the Duomo di Milano. The Duomo di Milano is arguably the most iconic building in Milan. 

Construction began in 1386 and wasn’t fully completed until 1965. Make sure to visit the rooftop as the views and photo ops from there are fabulous.

Whether you’re a fan of shopping or not, a visit to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a must. 

This is a mall with high-end stores, and the architecture of the mall itself is exquisite.

Milan is home to Leonardo da Vinci’s painting, “The Last Supper.” Be sure to get tickets in advance as they can sell out. 

Swing by Sforzesco Castle to enjoy the public courtyard (free to enter) and see work by Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo (for admission). 

Walk through the back exit of Sforzesco Castle and stroll through Sempione Park. Stop by Arco della Pace which you’ll see is reminiscent of Paris’s Arc de Triomphe.

Milan is a fabulous city to explore. Enjoy your solo adventure!

By Chelsea from  Adventures of Chels .

Traveling alone can be daunting, but one place where you won’t feel strange but excited to explore is the beautiful and famous city of Venice, one of the most popular solo travel destinations in Italy.

As one of the best-known and most popular locations to visit in Italy, Venice is for everyone.

Located in northeast Italy, the city is built on over 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. 

One of the charms of Venice is that it’s entirely walkable and doesn’t have any cars or roads, only canals, which makes it an ideal destination for solo travel. 

You can walk from one side to another, and hop into a water boat for trips to the small islands such as Murano, known for its glass.

Getting to Venice is convenient for many parts of Europe. The international airport, Marco Polo Airport, has direct flights from cities such as Warsaw, Berlin and Paris.

From there, you can take a water taxi or a Vaporetto (public ferry) to the main island. 

Alternatively, trains from major Italian cities such as Rome and Milan conveniently terminate at Venezia Santa Lucia train station right in the city’s heart.

Walking around Venice will surely help you get your steps in. The entire city is a labyrinth of narrow streets and bridges over wide and narrow canals.

Some of the best places to visit include Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica and Venice’s iconic Piazza San Marco.

It is best to visit these early in the morning before the crowds start, especially if you plan on visiting in the summer. 

Piazza San Marco is a bustling hub filled with cafes and tourists but it is a beautiful spot in Venice and is one of the most popular areas for photography.

Taking a ride on a gondola, although it can be considered somewhat touristic, is an unforgettable experience. Venice has an array of restaurants and trattorias. 

It is surprisingly friendly toward those with a gluten allergy as well, as many restaurants have allergen options.

Venice is a place full of beauty and caters to any traveler. With so many things to see and do in this small island city, it’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular and beautiful places to visit.

By Diana, Travels in Poland

Verona , Italy may be known as the city of love because of its connection with the fictional star-crossed lovers of Romeo and Juliet. Still, it is actually an excellent city for Italy solo travel.

This city in northeastern Italy is a beautiful blend of Roman, Venetian, Gothic, and Renaissance influences, with the Old Town and newer city bisected by the Adige River. 

Old Town offers tourist-friendly, safe, clean neighbourhoods that are easy to explore without getting lost and pedestrian-only marble-paved shopping thoroughfares. 

Located approximately 1.25 hours west of Venice and 1.75 hours east of Milan, it is easy to visit Verona by train, and the centre of the historic district is just a short walk from the train station. 

While many people visit Verona for the day or just one night, give yourself two nights to fully enjoy this charming city and the delicious food it offers (the Risotto Amarone is a must-try!)

You may want to book a guided walking tour, but Verona is also easy to explore independently. 

I’d recommend getting an early start at Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta), as this area gets extremely crowded mid-day. 

Some of the other famous sights include the Arena di Verona (which is older than the Colosseum in Rome!), Piazza delle Erbe (look at the buildings surrounding the square to see the remains of ancient murals), Torre dei Lamberti (take the elevator to the top for fabulous views), Piazza dei Signori, and Palazzo della Ragione. 

For those that enjoy the varied architecture of churches, take in the paintings inside the Chiesa di Santa Anastasia and the carved wood ceiling of the Chiesa di San Fermo.

Walk across the river on the Ponte Piedra stone arch bridge and climb to the Piazzale Castel San Pietro for a great sunset view to finish your day!

By Tamara Gruber, W3Travel

ITALY SOLO TRAVEL FOR OUTDOOR LOVERS

Cortina d’ampezzo.

One of the best destinations for Italy Solo travel for outdoor lovers and nature enthusiasts is Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Nestled in the picturesque Dolomites, the quaint town of  Cortina d’Ampezzo offers so many things to do , making it an ideal destination for solo travellers. 

It’s a popular skiing destination in the winter months, and a great hiking destination during the summer months.

Head to the Cinque Torri, accessible by a chairlift ride from Cortina. 

Cinque Torri offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and is an excellent spot for photography, hiking and admiring the views of the Dolomites.

Alternatively, take a scenic cable car ride up to Mount Faloria from Cortina town centre. 

Whether you’re visiting in spring, summer, autumn or winter, the views from here are spectacular!

Cortina is known for its delicious Italian cuisine, so spend time in the local restaurants and cosy cafés and indulge in delicious regional dishes. 

There’s a friendly atmosphere here so it’s easy to meet locals and other travellers.

Cortina d’Ampezzo is a great place to explore alone as it offers a great mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a charming atmosphere. 

The town centre is lovely to explore, especially around Christmas, plus the hiking trails offer stunning views and tranquillity. 

Cortina town itself is safe and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to navigate.

Make sure to plan your activities according to the weather and season. Also, be sure to book your accommodation in advance as it books out fast!

Cortina can be reached in 2 hours from Venice – either by car, train or bus.

By Catrina, 24 Hours Layover

Mount Etna is one of the most impressive places in Italy. Not only is it the highest volcano in Europe, but it’s also the most active! 

It is one of the most beautiful places for Italy Solo travel if you love hiking and outdoors.

Located on the western side of the island of Sicily, Mount Etna erupts several times yearly, spewing lava and ash kilometres away. And yet, you can visit it and hike up its slopes!

Getting to Mount Etna is relatively easy if you’re already in Catania. Just get on the daily 8:15 bus from Catania that reaches the high-altitude Refugio Sapienza at 10:30. 

From there you can either start hiking upwards or take the cable car to the upper station. It’s pricy though! A ticket will set you back 30 euros.

If that seems like a lot, consider that it can get destroyed at any point during an eruption – and it has been 4 times since 1970.

Hiking up Mount Etna is demanding! The slopes are steep and covered in black lava basalt. 

The stones are at times so small that your feet sink in the rubble. I advise you not to wear white shoes.

Still, there are a few trails after the upper cable car station that are suitable for everyone. You can reach some volcanic vents and look inside smaller craters in the region. 

Unfortunately, hiking above 2700 m. is not allowed on Mount Etna. You need special permission and a guide to go above that.

Mount Etna is an awesome destination to visit year-round (although you’d need a lot more clothes in the winter!) and is perfectly suitable for the solo traveler. 

The impressive nature of the place and the bizarre scenery will fascinate you but also help you reconnect with yourself. 

And the ultimate freedom to explore (below 2700 m. of course) is unparalleled by anything!

By Simon,  Backpack Moments

HIKING IN THE DOLOMITES

Hiking in the Dolomites is an incredible experience for solo travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty.

Lago di Braies , also known as the “Pearl of the Dolomites,” is my favorite spot to start hiking worldwide! 

The turquoise lake is just out of this world and you can even buy a pastry and hot coffee at the trailhead.

While it can get crowded, proper planning can help avoid the crowds. Accessible by car from nearby towns like Cortina d’Ampezzo, Bolzano, and Innsbruck, Lago di Braies is located in the province of South Tyrol and is well connected to major roads and train stations.

The Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park area offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for all levels. 

Whether you’re looking for a hut-to-hut hike to explore the beautiful alpine scenery, the lakeside chapel, or easy hiking paths, there’s something for everyone. 

You can even take a handcrafted wooden boat ride on the crystal-clear waters of Lake Braies and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains before you start.

For a seriously challenging day hike, head to the high-elevation mountain hut called “Rifugio Biella” or “Seekofel hütte.” 

This hike offers breathtaking views of the Dolomites and is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

If you’re looking for the perfect place to stay, the Hotel Lago di Braies directly on the lake is the ideal choice. 

With comfortable rooms offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind after hiking. 

The hotel’s restaurant serves delicious local cuisine, and spa services are available for ultimate relaxation. 

Hiking in the Dolomites is an adventure of a lifetime, and solo travelers will indeed find peace and solitude in this magnificent destination.

By Morgan Fielder, Crave the Planet

I TALY SOLO TRAVEL DESTINATIONS – PRETTY VILLAGES, CITIES AND TOWNS

Cinque terre.

Cinque Terre is a national park on the western coast of Italy a little north of Pisa. It is famous for its beautiful villages located one after the other along the coast. 

Cinque Terre is one of the most beautiful places for Italy Solo travel as you will be amidst stunning villages and turquoise beaches.

There are five villages total from Riomaggiore in the south to Monterosso in the north.

No cars are allowed in the area so the only way to get between the villages is by water taxi, train or on foot. 

Walking trails link each village and have fantastic views out to sea and of the villages. 

If you only do one stretch make it the one between Vernazza and Monterosso.

After a couple of hikes and exploring the villages it is time to relax on the beach.

There are several beaches in the area, the largest and prettiest is in Monterosso.

For staying overnight, Vernazza is a great place to base yourself. It is large enough to have several hotels, apartment rentals and restaurants. 

Having said that, this is not the place to come if you are looking for nightlife.

Travelling solo in this area of Italy is safe. Cinque Terre is often considered a romantic destination but this is also a great place to travel on your own. 

The area has a mix of activities and relaxation, coupled with some of the prettiest villages you can find in Italy. 

By Kristin D,  Scotland Less Expressed

Grado  is located on the picturesque Italian Adriatic coast and is a real treasure for traveling alone in Italy. With its charming atmosphere, stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage, Grado offers the perfect conditions for a seaside getaway. 

Both couples looking for a romantic getaway or solo travelers will love this town and its beautiful surroundings.

From gorgeous beaches to fascinating landmarks, Grado really has a lot to offer. 

The long sandy beach of Grado is an absolute highlight and the beach resorts still exude the historic charm of times gone by. 

For more than 100 years ago, the resort was an imperial health resort, where even then the motto was: see and be seen. 

The historic old town is also beautiful, with its winding alleys, quaint stores and cozy cafés that invite you to explore.

A special experience is a boat trip to the church island of Barbana, an essential place of pilgrimage in Grado. 

Even the trip from the picturesque harbour through the lagoon of Grado is an unforgettable experience. 

Other recommended excursions include the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aquileia and the Val Cavanata nature reserve, where you can see flamingos.

For a perfect stay, I recommend the Hotel & Apartments Eldorado as a small, charming retreat. 

This modern and new hotel offers spacious rooms with stunning sea views, a delicious breakfast, and free bicycles to explore the surrounding area. 

An absolute must for dinner is the Trattoria Alla Borsa. This cozy trattoria in the heart of the historic old town serves delicious Italian cuisine, including fresh fish dishes and homemade pasta. 

The location, surrounded by charming stone houses, is also simply unbeatable.

By Martina, PlacesofJuma

Bosa  is regularly mentioned among the prettiest villages in Italy, and it’s easy to see why. Bosa is one of the most beautiful places for Italy solo travel if you love going an off-the-beaten-path.

Located on the western coast of Sardinia, this small town is a feast of colors, and while it’s become increasingly popular among tourists, the atmosphere is still very quaint. 

It has remained a local place, where even – or shall I say especially! – solo travelers will feel welcome.

The main attraction in Bosa is the Malaspina Castle, beautifully perched atop a hill. 

The castle is much in ruins, but there you can see the beautifully frescoed 14th-century chapel of Nostra Signora di Regnos Altos. 

The highlight of visiting the castle is the magnificent views over the village. You will see the Temo River placidly flowing through the village.

If you visit in the summer, enjoy one of the many local beaches. Cala di Cumpultittu is a small rocky cove that requires a bit of a hike but it’s a fantastic snorkelling spot. 

For stunning, pristine waters head to Cani Malu, a natural pool just outside the village. However, avoid going on windy days as it can get slippery and dangerous.

The nearest airport to Bosa is Alghero Fertilia. From there, you can either drive or take the 9312 bus that goes along the incredibly scenic coastal road.

By Claudia Tavani, Strictly Sardinia

Who said that solo travel in Italy should only be to the big cities? Many incredible places are worth exploring! One of them is undoubtedly  Stromboli , a small island part of the Aeolian Archipelago, off the coast of Sicily. 

It’s such a small place that in a matter of moments you will end up meeting lots of other travelers, especially if you plan to hike!

Indeed, the main reason to visit Stromboli is to hike its volcano, one of the most active in the world and erupting regularly. 

Following an eruption that in 2019 caused the death of a tourist, hikes to the crater of Mount Stromboli are not allowed anymore. 

However, guided groups can still reach a viewpoint located 400 meters above sea level (around 1,312 feet), from where they get to enjoy the incredible show of the eruptions and a magnificent sunset view over the rest of the Aeolian islands.

If you don’t fancy joining a guided tour, you can still hike alone to the Sciara del Fuoco viewpoint, which is easy to reach from the village – the trailhead is in Piscità, about 2 km (1.2 miles) west of the harbor.

The overall atmosphere of the island is incredibly relaxed and peaceful, though it can get busy in the summer months.

Stromboli can be reached by ferry from other Aeolian islands or directly from Milazzo, a small town near Messina.

By Claudia Tavani, My Adventures Across The World

CALCATA VECCHIA

One of the best ways to authentically connect with locals in Italy is to visit off-the-beaten-path destinations.

About 50 km north of Rome, in the  Tuscia region  famous for its lush forests and mysterious archaeological ruins, lies the village of Calcata Vecchia.

Calcata Vecchia sits on a flat spur of rock in the center of the Treja River Valley.

The village showcases medieval architecture, with stone houses, remnants of defensive walls, and a single large gateway adorned with ancient coats of arms.

Since the 1960s, Calcata Vecchia has attracted Italian and international artists and artisans who come here to practice their arts, either for a few months or on a long-term basis. 

As a result, most of the approximately 80 villagers are artists.

Meeting them is easy; you can simply sit in the village’s only piazza and stroll through the narrow, picturesque alleys in search of workshops and studios.

The residents of Calcata embrace the strong sense of community that this place offers. 

They share common values that include respect for the environment, reuse, mutual aid, creativity, and exchanging ideas. 

Like the artists of the past, today’s artists have left the cities and industrial areas to reside amidst natural beauty.

Calcata offers a stimulating and rejuvenating experience. 

The best times to visit are spring and autumn when you can explore the hiking trails starting from the town and venturing into the valley. 

A walk will take you to Opera Bosco, an open-air museum featuring a 2.5-kilometre path with dozens of installations created solely from forest materials.

If you visit Calcata during the weekend, you’ll find all the restaurants and workshops open. 

It’s worth trying the cuisine at the trattoria “Ai Tre Monti,” which offers affordable dishes like fettuccine with wild boar ragout. 

At La Piazzetta Restaurant, on the other hand, you’ll find food made exclusively from organic ingredients sourced from local farms.

The gathering place for those who enjoy music and drinks is the Bard House Club.

To reach Calcata Vecchia by public transportation, you can take a Cotral bus from the Saxa Rubra station in northern Rome. 

The journey usually takes about an hour.

If you are traveling by car, be aware that the parking lot is about 900 mt outside the village.

 By Lisa, Travel Connect Experience

Orvieto is a lovely town for Italy solo travel as it is not too big and there are plenty of sights within a short walking distance from each other. 

It is a safe place to stroll around and dining alone, you will be treated well. 

Besides, the locals of Orvieto are super friendly and if you are open to it, you might just find new friends there. 

The town is located only an hour and a half north of Rome so it can quickly be done on a day trip by train.

Still, if you have more time to spare, Orvieto is worth a couple of days wandering through its narrow, cobblestoned streets, eating delicious food at the charming restaurants and drinking delightful wine.

There are many  things to do in Orvieto , and many of them happen underground. St. Patricks Well is 54 meters deep, so get ready to walk the 248 steps to the bottom to witness this impressive structure. 

Another well worth visiting is the 36-meters deep Etruscan well, Pozzo della Cava. 

Finally, go on a guided tour of Orvieto Underground taking you through parts of the 1200 underground chambers below your feet when walking the town. 

Most of them are privately owned, so it is a privilege to see some of them. 

The underground world has been carved out all the way back to Etruscan times and the history is intriguing.

Linn Haglund, Brainy Backpackers

FAVIGNANA ISLAND

One of the best things to do alone in Italy is  visiting Favignana Island for a couple of days .

Located just a few kilometres north of the coast of Sicily, the island is a beautiful place known for its idyllic beaches and laid-back atmosphere. 

With turquoise waters, hot summer days, castles and charming towns, Favignana Island is the perfect destination for Italy Solo travel if you are a snorkelling enthusiast or just want a relaxing vacation. 

As a small island, Favignana doesn’t feel overwhelming as a solo traveler.

So it’s perfect for solo travelers whether you want to disconnect from others or make friends with locals.

Favignana Island is only accessible by shuttle boat from Sicily’s mainland. You must fly or train into Sicily and then take the ferry at Trapani port. 

There are usually no cars on the island as the municipality restricts them. For example, tourists cannot bring their car to the island during summer. 

As the island isn’t huge, visitors can get around by bicycle or by walking. Buses also run between the towns and beaches although they can be unreliable!

Cala Azzurra and Cala Rossa are the most famous beaches in Favignana and for good reasons! The rock formations are incredible and the water is crystal clear.

The fishing port, the market and the main square of the town are also points of interest. 

If you feel lonely and want to explore beyond Favignana Island, day trips to Marettimo Island are regularly organised and easy to hop on. 

You can also make a reservation for lunch on a cruise boat while checking out wild dolphins!

By Mary, Be Right Back Mary

Taormina is one of the premier destinations in Sicily and also a safe place to visit. 

If the idea of exploring a hillside town right on the coast, with breathtaking views and Mount Etna towering above, appeals to you, then you’ll adore Taormina, one of the best places for solo travel in Italy.

The ancient amphitheatre, known as Teatro Greco, is the top landmark in Taormina, offering not only remarkably preserved artefacts but also stunning vistas of both the Ionian Sea and Etna. 

Along the main Boulevard that encircles the city, Corso Umberto, you can discover exquisite churches, palaces, and many restaurants and shops.

If you’re up for it, you can hike above Taormina to a fortress with an even more awe-inspiring view. 

Alternatively, heading in the opposite direction is also an option. Take a ride on a cable car and descend to the beaches! 

Isola Bella Beach is outstanding and features a small islet of the same name. You can even explore the island for a small fee.

Getting to Taormina is easy, particularly from the nearby major city of Catania. There are trains, buses, and driving is also a straightforward option.

Just remember that you must park your car at a large parking lot on either side of Taormina and then take a free shuttle to the actual town.

Taormina is simply lovely, and strolling around alone will never feel lonely. There’s  plenty to see and do in Taormina , ensuring a fantastic time, guaranteed

You can visit Taormina on a day trip or stay overnight to experience peace and tranquility once the daytrippers have departed.

By Veronika Primm, Travel Geekery

LAKE MAGGIORE AND THE BORROMEAN ISLANDS 

On the western shore of Lake Maggiore in Italy’s lake district is the small town of Stresa, a touristy destination with cafes, boutique shops, and lovely waterfront hotels, a perfect destination for Italy solo travel to step back in time and  explore the Borromean Islands .

Getting to Stresa is easiest from Milan. We suggest renting a car and driving the scenic route, but you can also arrange private transport or take the train. 

From Milan Airport, an inexpensive but convenient bus ride takes just one hour. 

There is also a train service, which involves a change and takes longer.

There are three Borromean Islands to visit with hop-on hop-off passenger ferry service from Stresa throughout the day. 

Isola Bella has a stunning Baroque Palace dating to the 17th century. 

You can spend hours here strolling the many rooms, priceless artworks, and rare 16th-century Flemish tapestries. 

There are six underground grottos with every surface from floor to ceiling unbelievably decorated with shells.

Isola Pescatori is the only island inhabited by a small population year-round with the Church of San Vittore as its leading historic site. 

Primarily a fishing village for centuries, it is now a favourite stop for lunch with its many restaurants, cafes, and artisan shops making it a great place to make new friends.

Isola Madre is the largest of the three and is mainly covered by a garden of rare and exotic trees and flowers. It’s best visited when all are green, and in bloom, and boat operators will pass it up when not in season.

By Lori from Travlinmad

SAN GIMIGNANO

San Gimignano, the stunning medieval tower town, is one of the most enchanting places in Italy. It is also one of the best places for Italy solo travel. 

Once you pass the fortress entrance, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a fairyland. 

With its 14 magnificent towers that loom against the sky, San Gimignano has earned several monikers, including “Medieval Manhattan” and “The Town of Fine Towers.”

Strolling around this UNESCO Heritage Site is the recommended way to discover the town’s artistic and architectural treasures. 

Leave your car parked outside the city walls (you really don’t have a choice), and explore the cobbled streets and intimate alleyways on foot. 

In addition touring the 12th-century church, Duomo di San Gimignano, and climbing the Torre Grossa (the highest tower in town) take in the picturesque countryside in the distance punctuated by vineyards and cypresses.

For foodies, this charming village offers plenty of  traditional Tuscan dishes . Try the regional pasta known as pappardelle or indulge in a bowl of ribollita (bread and vegetable soup). 

And for an authentic Tuscan snack or dessert, stop at an outdoor cafe in the Piazza Cisterna and pair an order of cantucci (a hard cookie) with the famous sweet wine, vin Santo.

As there’s no train station in San Gimignano, driving is the best way to reach this magical place. 

Located about an hour from Florence, it makes a great day trip. If you don’t have a car, a bus will take double the time, but it’s worth it!

By Denise, Chef Denise

Umbria is known affectionately as the “Green Heart of Italy” thanks to its central location and rich, sweeping countryside. 

It is one of the country’s most rural provinces, with a storybook landscape characterised by rolling vineyards and quaint hilltop citadels.

The tranquility of Umbria makes it a fulfilling place for Italy solo travel destination, as you can make your way through this countryside setting at your own pace, and never feel rushed. 

The laidback way of life here is infectious, and nowhere is it more apparent than in the  wineries of Umbria .

Umbria has many qualities you might associate with Tuscany – incredible wine, delectable cuisine, idyllic scenery – but without so many tourists around. 

Many of its wineries are small, family-run businesses that have passed through generations, more accustomed to quiet dinners under a veranda than welcoming coach-loads of visitors.

Recommended – 15 Magical Castles in Tuscany Italy You May Not Have Heard of

Take the village of Montefalco, for example, which is famed for producing Sagrantino, a full-bodied red wine. 

At a local winery like Montioni Frantoio e Cantina you can be shown around the peaceful olive groves and vines, and taste some of the produce among family members who have put their hearts and souls into the place for decades. 

Getting to Umbria is easy, as you can reach its capital city Perugia by flight, train or bus. 

Once you arrive, it’s best to hire a car to explore further. Book a night or two at Montefalco or Assisi, where a choice of wineries is reachable by foot.

By Alex Trembath, Career Gappers

A visit to Ravenna is perfect for Italy solo travel if you are searching for art and culture. Ravenna is home to the world-famous Byzantine mosaics that are UNESCO protected. 

An easy day trip by train from Bologna, or even possibly from Florence, Ravenna is easily accessible yet not overly touristy. 

Ravenna’s mosaics date back to the 5th century, when the area was part of the Byzantine Empire.

To expand their reach, the empire commissioned several stunning mosaic interiors within churches and baptisteries in Ravenna. 

The glittering gold, turquoise and lapis blues of the mosaics create an otherworldly sphere and make these spaces in Ravenna some of the oldest and most impressive cultural destinations in Europe. 

The mosaics are distributed across 7 sites in Ravenna, and it is easy to buy tickets to these from the tourist information office. 

The tickets are affordable and easily accessible, and the staff are helpful and friendly to those who don’t speak Italian. 

The jewel of Ravenna is the Basilica di San Vitale, which houses an enormous mosaic series featuring Christ, as well as portraits of Justinian and Theodora, the rulers of the Byzantine Empire at the time of commission. 

This is the only known image of Theodora, and her likeness is spectacular in gold mosaic. 

Ravenna is easily walkable. It takes about ten minutes to walk from the train station to the town center, and from there the sites are all within a few minutes of each other.

The town center itself is very pedestrian friendly and includes many boutiques and charming restaurants, as well as a large indoor market. 

A  day trip to Ravenna  is the perfect way to spend time in Italy as a solo traveller. 

By Hannah Kroes, Art Distance

If you want to explore the daily life in an Italian town off the radar for most tourists, head to the Puglia region, in the south of Italy. 

There are lots of beautiful towns to visit in the region, but one place you shouldn’t miss on your  Puglia itinerary  is Otranto. 

Otranto, on the eastern coast of Italy, is a beach town with a calm and transparent turquoise sea, and a medieval old town of white-washed buildings. 

It’s an excellent place for Italy solo travel, as the town is relatively small, safe, easy to get by alone, and full of friendly locals.

You can enjoy your days by the sea, at the beach, or having a coffee or gelato at one of the beachfront cafés.

You can also explore the old town, where you can visit the castle used to protect the city. 

Don’t miss a visit to the cathedral, which is probably unlike any church you have visited: behind the altar, you will find the skulls of 800 martyrs that refused to convert to Islam when the Turks invaded. 

And if you have a car, drive to La Grotta della Poesia, a pristine natural pool in a natural cavity that has formed over time due to water erosion.

To reach Otranto, you can fly to Bari airport and from there either rent a car and drive to Otranto, or take a train to Lecce and from there take a bus.

By Sharon, The Roads Beyond

Despite not being as popular as Rome, Venice or Florence, Siena is worth adding to your Italian bucket list! 

It’s the perfect destination for Italy solo travel for a solo adventure, even if you visit on a day trip. 

If you’re heading to Siena from overseas, the city unfortunately doesn’t have an airport. 

This means you’ll have to fly into Florence or Pisa and then catch the train. 

Many low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet fly into these destinations from other European countries.

Luckily, Italy has a fantastic train network so it’s easy to get from A to B as you explore this incredible country. 

The historic city centre has breathtaking attractions, with the outstanding architecture around each corner. 

One of the best things to do in Siena is to visit the Duomo. 

Adorned with stunning mosaic floors and ornate details, both the exterior and interior of the cathedral are truly impressive.

During your visit, stop by the Piccolomini Library to admire historical frescos and one of the most remarkable ceilings you’ll ever see! 

Just make sure you book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

Another place you can’t miss is Facciatone! After checking out the museum, wait your turn to admire the views from the viewing platform.

Although there are often long queues, it’s worth the wait! As you get to the top, you’ll be greeted by the best views of Siena! 

With fewer tourists exploring this beautiful Italian gem, you can explore at a more relaxed pace. 

Plus, Italy is an excellent destination for solo female travellers! 

Siena itself is very safe and wandering the streets at your own pace is the perfect way to appreciate this captivating city!

By Lauren Allen,  Pack & Paint

Nestled through the hills far from Bologna, Dozza is a fantastic village where locals love to stay quiet and spend a few days relaxing. 

This is one of many  reasons to visit Dozza ; in fact, this village has something unusual. It is a proper open-air museum showcasing masterpiece murals on the facades of its townhouses. 

Walking through the narrow cobblestone streets of Dozza, you will encounter renowned artists attracted to the little village by the annual festival “Muro Dipinto”, which aims to decorate an unknown village in Emilia Romagna, giving new life and boasting tourism. 

It is one of the quietest places to visit in Italy, perfect for solo travellers and families and tourists alike. 

You will be pleased by the traditional eateries, which are often called “taverna” or “osteria” in this part of the country. 

About that, you must stay in the village for at least a night to enjoy the atmosphere, sip a glass of local wine and dive into the rich flavours. 

Walk to the main square with the Sforza Fortress standing proudly guarding the town; on the ground floor, you can enjoy the “Enoteca Regionale dell’Emilia Romagna”, a wonderland for wine and cheese lovers. 

If you are looking for hiking paths that reconnect you with nature, Dozza is perfect, with a fantastic hike through vineyards and cellars on the “Sentieri del Vino”.

It is not difficult to reach Dozza from Bologna. In fact, you must take the local train to Imola and get a taxi or a bus for about a 10 minutes ride to the village. 

However, the best way to explore the Emilia Romagna countryside is, of course, by car, which is inexpensive and might allow you to have the freedom to stop at nearby enchanting places.

By Toti & Ale, Passport and Stamps

Ravello is a picturesque and peaceful town located along the Amalfi Coast. 

Not only is Ravello an amazing place that captures the beauty of the Mediterranean, but it is also an ideal location for those seeking solitude from the more popular towns such as Amalfi and Positano, making it one of the best secluded Italy solo travel destinations.

This small town is perfect for everyone, especially for solo travellers as the tourist infrastructure is excellent and the local hospitality is welcoming. 

A trip to Ravello would not be complete without visiting the historic and beautiful Villa Cimbrone. 

This villa was originally built in the 11th century and boasts some of the most beautiful gardens and fountains along the Amalfi Coast. 

Restored in the 20th century, the villa is now private for guests only, but the surrounding gardens are open to the public. 

One of its most famous features is the Terrace of Infinity, which provides breathtaking sights of its marble statues backed by the sea extending endlessly into the horizon. 

The best ways to reach the Villa Cimbrone are public transit or  walking from neighboring town Amalfi . 

The bus stop is next to the main pedestrian tunnel in Ravello, which will lead to the main square Piazza Duomo. 

From the square, follows the signs for the Villa. Ravello is a very walkable city, so it’s best to ditch the car, especially since the streets along the Amalfi coast are very narrow, with limited parking. 

By Deirdre Jenkins, Build & Board Travel

CITTA DELLA PIEVE

Città della Pieve is perfect for Italy solo travel. Perched on a hilltop 500m above sea level, this medieval village with Etruscan origins has breathtaking views of Lake Trasimeno and the countryside of Umbria, Lazio, and Tuscany.

A great way to explore Città della Pieve is by wandering through its Alleys Walk (Percorso dei Vicoli) and the Landscape Walk (Percorso del Paesaggio). 

The Alleys Walk takes you through quaint alleyways, including the famous Vicolo Baciadonne, one of Italy’s narrowest streets. 

The Landscape Walk follows the ancient walls, and the ideal time to do it is during sunset.

If you are a foodie, you must try the saffron risotto, a local speciality and one of the many amazing  things to do in Umbria .

Città della Pieve is also renowned for being the birthplace of the Renaissance painter Perugino. 

Visitors can admire his works at the Cathedral of St Gervasius and Protasius, and the Oratory of Santa Maria dei Bianchi. Two true masterpieces.

I loved travelling solo in Città della Pieve. One of the things I enjoyed most was joining locals in the town square for an aperitivo around sunset. 

Everyone was amiable and it was a great way to meet people.

The best way to get there is by car hire, but if you don’t want to drive, you can take a train to Chiusi-Chianciano Terme station and then a bus or taxi to Città della Pieve.

By Teresa, Brogan Abroad

EXPLORE THE HOT SPRINGS IN TUSCANY

Many things lure you to Tuscany, it’s not short of beautiful attractions and incredible landscapes, but one thing that piqued my interest was the geothermal springs dotted all over the countryside. 

Tuscany is one of my favourite places; delicious food, excellent weather and incredible landscapes. 

It’s easy to rent a car and explore the nearby towns that most tourists miss! 

There are plenty of signs with the word ‘Terme’ on it, which, as you might have guessed, translates to ‘thermal’. The signs up and down the motorway direct you to local thermal springs. 

It is the most bizarre and beautiful attraction; imagine yourself in the beautiful hills of Tuscany, surrounded by tall cypress trees, standing in a hot, gushing waterfall infused with healing minerals.

Although not widely known among tourists, Tuscany has plenty of hot springs, despite its serene and rural landscape that only brings volcanic and geothermal activity to mind. 

Many of these hot springs are free to access, something that many travelers are unaware of; pull up and dip in. You’ll often find locals and tourists having a midday dip or a relaxing soak at the end of the day.

The most famous thermal spring is Terme di Saturnia, in the region of Saturnia. It’s the most Instagrammable, photogenic place, but as this one is the most famous, it gets very popular throughout the day! 

There are plenty of other quiet spots to choose from, have a look at Bagnon Vignoni, Bagno San Filippo or Terme Chianchiano, bask in the warm waters and enjoy!

By Adriana,  Wanderlicious

Trieste is a captivating city nestled on the northeastern coast of Italy. 

Trieste offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty, making it one of the best places for Italy Solo travel.

Some of the top things to visit in this charming city are:

Piazza Unità d’Italia: Easily accessible by foot from the city center, this bustling square provides stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. 

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, take leisurely walks along the promenade, and enjoy the lively street performers.

Miramare Castle:  Just 7 km away from Trieste lies the enchanting Miramare Castle. Reachable by bus or taxi, this fairytale-like castle surrounded by lush gardens offers a serene retreat. 

Explore the opulent interiors, stroll through the expansive park, and savor breathtaking vistas of the Adriatic Sea. 

This was the beloved home of Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian of Habsburg, built-in 1856.

Roman Theatre: Step back in time at the Roman Theatre, an awe-inspiring archaeological site in the heart of Trieste. 

Accessible on foot or by public transport, this ancient amphitheatre provides a glimpse into the city’s past. 

Marvel at the well-preserved ruins, ascend to the top for panoramic views, and let your imagination wander to the era of grand spectacles. 

The theatre was built between the 1st and 2nd centuries AD by the emperor Quintus Petronius Modesto.

Slovenian Beaches : Extend your coastal adventure by visiting the picturesque Slovenian towns of Portorož and Koper. 

A short journey from Trieste by bus or car, these beach destinations offer a tranquil escape. Portorož invites you with its pristine beaches, rejuvenating spa treatments, and exquisite seafood. 

In Koper, wander through the charming old town, admire Venetian architecture, and immerse yourself in the town’s rich history and cultural heritage.

By Leo Aguilar, Safari Nomad

Capri is a fantastic destination for solo travelers, offering many sights and activities. Here are some of the  best places to see in Capri , along with practical tips to help you plan your visit.

One of the highlights of Capri is the Blue Grotto, a sea cave renowned for its vibrant blue waters. To get there, you can take a boat from Marina Grande. 

Once outside the cave, you’ll be transferred into a small rowboat. 

Once inside, you’ll be mesmerized by the ethereal glow from sunlight passing through the cave’s underwater opening. 

The Blue Grotto is best visited in the morning when the sunlight illuminates the cave most beautifully. Be prepared for a short wait, as it can get crowded during peak hours.

For breathtaking panoramic views of Capri, head to Monte Solaro. You can reach the summit by hiking or taking a chairlift from Anacapri. 

Once there, you’ll be rewarded with vistas of the Mediterranean Sea, the Faraglioni rock formations, and the town of Capri.

If you’re into history, you shouldn’t miss a visit to Villa Jovis, the ruins of Emperor Tiberius’ former residence. Perched on a cliff, exploring the ruins will transport you back in time and provide stunning views of the island.

Capri Town is the vibrant heart of the island, bustling with boutique shops, charming cafés, and lively squares. 

Stroll through the narrow streets, admire the stylish fashion boutiques, and indulge in delicious Italian gelato.

Don’t miss the iconic Piazzetta, a small square where locals and visitors socialize and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. 

Exploring Capri Town is particularly enjoyable in the late afternoon or early evening. The day tourists leave and the streets are less crowded.

In conclusion, Capri is a paradise for solo travelers looking for history, nature, and relaxation. 

From the Blue Grotto to the panoramic views from Monte Solaro, the island offers a wide range of experiences.

By Jo, World Wild Schooling

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I really love Italy, but somehow never travelled there, however solo travel would be so great ! Thank you for sharing the tips!

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Solo Travel in Italy Done Right: 10 Tips You Need to Know

This article may contain compensated links. See our full disclosure here

10 essential tips from a solo traveler with over a decade of experience wandering off the beaten path in Italy and beyond.

Are you dreaming about a solo adventure in Italy? With so many incredible places to explore, dishes to try, and sights to see, Italy is a fantastic destination for anyone new to solo travel. Besides having so much to see and do, Italy also offers the perfect stepping stones for adjusting from a total solo travel newbie to advanced solo traveler.

In fact, on my very first trip to Italy I was so scared of getting lost that I panicked when we had free time to explore and glued myself to other people in the travel group. Gradually I grew more comfortable and learned a lot of lessons that added up to my most recent solo trip which was full of adventure–taking an overnight ferry from Italy to Albania!

As the shy girl who grew up in a town too small to even have a traffic light, I never could’ve imagined that I would go on to author The ULTIMATE Guide for the Solo Woman in Italy , the most comprehensive e-book to learn the skills, strategies, and tools you need to finally take the leap and travel solo in Italy. But life has a funny way of surprising us! I’m beyond grateful for the life changing experiences that solo travel gave me and I want to help others get past their roadblocks and have incredible solo travel experiences, too.

Whether you want to stay in one, walkable city for a simple first-time solo trip or take multiple trains and buses to reach far-flung corners of Italy, there are some important tips that will help you get the most out of your solo adventure in Italy!

10 Tips for Solo Travel in Italy Done Right

1. dream your most beautiful dream.

Don’t fall into the trap of feeling obligated to plan your trip entirely around the most famous sights in Italy. Almost anywhere you go in Italy is amazing. Take time to journal about what your intention for this solo adventure is and choose destinations that support your goals.

For example, if you’ve been through a lot in the past year and want to find yourself again, a slower paced, lesser-known destination where you’ll feel like you’re making your own unexpected discoveries might better support that goal than a whirlwind trip to the top cities. Or it might be the opposite for you! Just take the time to decide for yourself.

2. Choose accommodations that support your goals for the trip

Hostels are great for meeting international friends. Now that most hostels offer private rooms as well, you can still enjoy privacy and comfort while being able to easily meet fellow travelers.

If you’re aiming to check off some bucket list sights, staying in a hotel in the city with 24 hour front desk service is a good option for solo female travelers.

However, my personal favorite for meeting my goal of immersing myself in the culture is staying in an agriturismo or masseria (farm stays). For these, it’s best if you have a rental car . Sometimes the owners will offer to pick you up from a nearby train station, but you need to be ok with not being able to go places easily on your own. That being said, many farm stays offer a few activities on site, such as wine tastings or cooking classes.

For a happy medium between being in the middle of the city or the middle of nowhere, you can find lots of unique and charming, family-run B&Bs in small villages. This option allows you to explore without so much overwhelm about getting lost and be able to find things to do right outside your door.

3. Reframe your thoughts to combat loneliness

The question I get asked most about traveling solo is, “Don’t you get lonely?” And here’s the truth about it. Your body’s natural response to all this new stimuli of being alone in a foreign country is to protect itself from this unknown state by being around people who comfort you – so your body generates this feeling of being homesick and lonely.

Once you recognize that what you’re feeling is just a chemical response, it can help you separate yourself from it and redirect your thoughts.

Inside my solo travel e-book , you can find tips on how to “flip the script” and reframe the thoughts you might start having as part of this downward spiral of loneliness you can get yourself into.

For example, if you’re thinking “I can’t enjoy any of this, I’m just lonely” – Instead of focusing on how lonely you feel, find something you can get excited about.

*Reframe* – “I’m excited about that hike tomorrow, I’m going to reach that peak and buy myself a glass of wine to celebrate!”

Remind yourself at one point you were back home feeling SO excited to be there, then find something to focus on that makes you feel happy and excited. Most of all, know that the loneliness fades. The more you travel solo, the less loneliness is part of it.

4. If you’re on a budget, get creative and strategic

Plan ahead which meals you’ll eat out each day and which meals you’ll eat cheap. If you wait until you’re hungry to decide what to eat, you’ll inevitably opt for the more exciting, cozy, and costly option of a restaurant. Take advantage of apericena deals or enjoy the bakeries where you can fill up on delicious and affordable focaccia or pizza slices. Get lots more tips about saving money without missing out in my 30-Minute Budget Builder !

5. Solo travel safety is all about being prepared and trusting your intuition

It’s easy for safety issues to get overblown, especially if you’re looking for tips in online forums. What’s most important is that you trust your intuition and use the same common sense as you would traveling in your home country. Take care of basic things such as having a working phone and WiFi , having local taxi numbers written down, and having a Whatsapp group with close friends and family where you can share your live location. I’ve made safety easy for solo travelers by including a Safety Checklist, Accommodation Safety Checklist, and Dating Safety Checklist in my e-book !

6. Fall in love with dining alone

It may feel strange and a bit awkward at first, but no one else in the restaurant is even thinking about it. Celebrate the fact that your own two feet brought you here to this beautiful moment. Order more food than you can eat and indulge in the pleasure of each bite without the distraction of conversation. Relish being the mysterious woman in the corner with a story!

7. Meet the locals

One of my favorite and easiest ways to meet locals is to check Meetup.com or Facebook Events for language exchange groups. You’ll likely find Italians who want to practice English and expats who want to practice Italian. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet locals and practice Italian in a space where you feel more comfortable making mistakes.

8. Connect with locals by learning compliments or a phrase in local dialect!

If making friends with locals is part of your Italian dream, don’t let learning the language overwhelm you. Every bit of Italian you know helps tremendously, but you don’t necessarily have to study the language to be able to connect with locals. Learn a couple of nice compliments in Italian to make locals more open to you.

My favorite way to grab their attention and stand out from other tourists is to learn a phrase in local dialect and use Italian colloquialisms . Throw some hand gestures in there and you’ll really pique their curiosity!

9. When it comes to activities and experiences, think bigger!

The activities most people want to book in Italy are wine tastings, cooking classes, and guided tours in museums. And sure, those are staple experiences. But Italy offers so much more that most people wouldn’t even know to ask for!

How about a cooking class with a live opera performance, afternoon tea in a private palazzo hundreds of years old where descendants of a noble family still live, or helping in an archeological dig outside of Rome? Or one of my top favorites–sip Prosecco on a private boat with my friend Luigi as you eagerly wait for a volcano in the Aeolian Islands to erupt!

Start by making a list of all your passions, hobbies and interests–this is YOUR trip, might as well dive right into the things that totally light you up. Then actually google the items on your list combined with the word “Italy” and see what comes up.

For example, I love horseback riding so I might search “horse experiences in Italy” and browse the results for an activity I might want to book for a special day during my solo trip. I’d probably be delighted to discover that I can book an experience immersed with butteri , Tuscany’s cowboys (yes, that’s a thing!). Get in touch with me for help coming up with some ideas for unique experiences that fit your interests and style!

10. Write everything down!

Seriously, the details of your experiences will fade so quickly. Give yourself the gift of being able to relive the experience by journaling everyday. Quick little sketches (even if they’re “bad”) bring the moment back to life even more. I like to jot down every dish I eat and the new flavors and combinations to inspire me in the kitchen when I’m back home. Pro Tip: Getting caught up on journaling is a great thing to do to make dining alone to feel less awkward!

Take these 10 tips to heart and you’ll be on the road to a meaningful solo travel adventure in Italy! For more guidance and expert tips to help you prepare for taking the leap, check out The ULTIMATE Guide for the Solo Woman in Italy .

Buon viaggio!

About the author

Sierra busch creative edge travel.

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Traveling Italy Solo: The Ultimate Guide (With Map!)

By Jenoa Matthes. This guide to planning a solo trip to Italy contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Interested in traveling Italy solo , but need some help with the planning?

Then you’re in the right place!

Not only is Italy one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, it’s also one of the safest for solo female travelers.

With some of the best museums in the world, incredible food, and ancient sites, you’re guaranteed to have an amazing cultural experience in Italy.

In this solo Italy guide, we’ll cover essential topics — such as the best ways to get around, safety tips as a solo female traveler, the best places to travel in Italy alone, and more.

So grab your suitcase and bring your appetite, we’re off on a solo adventure to Italy!

Quick tip: While Italy is safe for solo travel, it’s still smart to pack travel safety essentials . One top pick is the She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments and Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves .

Table of Contents

Travel Italy Solo With Confidence [Free Course]

But first, before we get into our solo travel Italy guide, I invite you to grab a seat in Jessie’s  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

The 6-day course is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to take amazing solo selfies

Once you’ve  grabbed your seat , read on to learn tips for planning a solo trip in Italy.

Is Italy Safe To Travel Alone?

Yes, Italy is generally a safe place for solo female travelers, but it’s always important to take the necessary safety precautions when traveling. According to the Global Peace Index , Italy has a high state of peace and ranks #32 compared to 163 countries on the list.

That being said, one issue to be aware of is catcalling and verbal aggression from Italian men. If you find yourself in a situation like this, ignore them and move along.

Personally, I’ve traveled to Italy too many times to count, and I’ve never had any issues with this or with safety in general.

Of course, it’s still wise to be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts no matter where you are traveling. Consider packing essential travel safety gear and keeping solo travel safety tips in mind.

Overall, the people in Italy are friendly and willing to help, and you’ll very likely have a wonderful and safe experience traveling through the country.

Where Is Italy?

Italy is located in the southern part of Europe , on the Apennine Peninsula. It is bordered by France, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia, and the micro states of San Marino in central Italy and Vatican City near Rome.

The Italian mainland is a diverse and impressive place, full of beauty, culture, and history.

From the stunning shoreline of the Amalfi Coast to the rolling hills of Tuscany and the towering Dolomite Mountains up north, Italy offers something for everyone.

Getting To Italy

Italy is one of the most accessible countries in Europe, with easy access to major cities and international airports.

There are three main international airports in Italy:

• Rome Fiumicino International Airport (FCO)
• Milan Malpensa International Airport (MXP)
• Venice Marco Polo International Airport (VCE)

From these cities, you can get anywhere in Italy by train, car, or bus. Of all three, Rome is the most popular airport to fly into and is a great starting point for your solo travels to Italy.

Additionally, there are also a number of domestic Italian airports which offer connections to great destinations like Florence, Bologna, Palermo, and Naples.

Getting Around Italy As A Solo Traveler 

With an extensive rail network, buses, airports, and the option to rent a car, you should have no issues getting around Italy. In fact, Italy is one of the easiest countries in Europe to travel around.

Here are some transportation options for your solo trip to Italy:

Italy by train

Getting around Italy by train is one of the best ways to explore its major cities. The trains connect most cities and smaller towns throughout the country, making it easy and convenient to get from place to place.

The trains are comfortable and usually reliable. You may get a short delay here or there; but, overall they are on time.

There are plenty of options for high-speed travel between large cities like Rome and Florence, as well as regional services that can take you to off the beaten path.

You can book all of your train travel on the Trenitalia website or app. I suggest downloading the app for the easiest booking experience.

Another option for booking train tickets is Omio , a reseller with a user-friendly website that is entirely in English.

Buy your long-distance train tickets at least 3 weeks in advance because prices go up the closer you get to your travel date.

For regional trains, you can usually purchase tickets the day of at the train station or on the Trenitalia app.

Italy by car

Renting a car in Italy is a fantastic option if you plan to explore more of the countryside like Tuscany. Not all towns can be reached by train, so you will need to get a car in this instance.

Additionally, you can rent cars near train stations and airports from all of the major cities in Italy.

Whether you want to take in some stunning views from Tuscany, experience an epic Italy road trip , or make a day trip out of exploring small towns, having your own car gives you flexibility and control over your travels. Plus, driving around Italy can be quite enjoyable with its rolling hills and winding roads.

That being said, I do not recommend getting a car if you are only visiting the big cities in Italy. Cities like Rome and Florence are chaotic to drive in and they have many restricted zones. Unfortunately, I’ve gotten a few tickets in Italy because these zones aren’t always well marked.

Another tip is to avoid renting a car on the Amalfi Coast. The roads are narrow, the parking is limited, and I’ve seen way too many cars with scratches due to the limited road space. It’s best to stick with public transportation in this region.

Italy by plane

Flying in Italy is an affordable and quick option to get from the north to the south. Since Italy is a large country, the best option to get from somewhere like Palermo in the south to Venice in the north is by flying.

Budget airlines like EasyJet , Ryanair , and Wizz Air offer flights to many of the these Italian cities for a reasonable price.

Italy by bus

Taking the bus around Italy is a great option if you’re traveling on a budget and looking for the cheapest way to travel. While it may take longer than a high-speed train, you will save money when you travel by bus.

You can catch a bus from most major cities for under €10. Flixbus is a fantastic option for bus transport in Italy. The pricing is reasonable and the buses are usually reliable, safe, and comfortable.

Italy Solo Travel Map

To help give you a lay of the land, here is a map for visiting Italy. It includes most of the main points and solo activities mentioned in this guide to taking an Italy solo trip:

You can also click here for the interactive version .

Popular Solo Travel Destinations In Italy 

Italy is an absolute dream destination, and there are so many wonderful place to visit. With that being said, these are the top places that you must see during your solo trip to Italy.

Rome, also known as The Eternal City, is one of the most incredible cities in the world. With its ancient and historic monuments, delicious cuisine, and charming streets, it’s no wonder Rome is the most visited city in Italy.

But with so much to see and do here, it can be overwhelming choosing what to prioritize during your visit! Here are five must-see sights when you’re traveling solo in Rome :

– The Colosseum & The Roman Forum. This iconic amphitheater was built over 2000 years ago and still stands tall today as a symbol of imperial power. It’s also one of the Seven Wonders of the World!

Make sure to book your tickets in advance on the official website to avoid waiting in long lines. Your ticket will include a visit to both the Colosseum and Forum. To learn more about the fascinating history of this ancient site, then you can book a guided tour.

– Vatican City. Home to some of the world’s most famous artworks like Michelangelo’s frescoes on the ceiling of Sistine Chapel, a trip to Vatican City should not be missed when traveling Italy solo! Book your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in unnecessary lines.

– Pantheon. A stunning example of Roman architecture from ancient times, this temple dates back 2 millennia ago. The Pantheon is free to visit; however, reservations are required in order to visit on Saturdays and Sundays. Reserve your visit for the weekend here .

– Trevi Fountain. This is one of Italy’s most iconic fountains located right in central Rome. Make sure you throw some coins into the fountain, as it will grant you luck and bring you back to Rome one day. The crowds here can get insanely busy during the day. If you want to experience it without the hoards of people, visit really early in the morning.

– Spanish Steps. Built in the 18th century, this grand staircase is located in the heart of Rome. The steps lead up to the Trinita dei Monti church and offer breathtaking view of Rome’s skyline. Again, Rome is very crowded, so you’ll have to get up early to experience the Spanish Steps without all of the people.

You should spend a minimum of 3 days in Rome to get the most out of your time in this beautiful city. Most of the main sites can be reached by foot if you are staying in the city center. There is a metro that is convenient to use when you are tired from walking.

If you’re staying longer, make sure to also do a few day and weekend trips from Rome .

Rome Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Rome . Rome Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Rome .

Florence is one of the best cities in Italy for solo travelers. Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, this city has a rich history that can be seen through its stunning architecture and artwork.

From grand piazzas to cobblestoned streets, Florence is one of the most charming cities in all of Italy.

The Duomo di Firenze (Florence Cathedral) stands majestically in the heart of the historic center. It beckons travelers with its intricate marble facade and breathtaking dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi — not to mention its frescoes painted by Giorgio Vasari. If you climb to the top of the dome, you’ll experience one of the most stunning views in all of Florence.

If you’re an art enthusiast, then a visit to the Uffizi Gallery with masterpieces by Renaissance painters such as Sandro Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci is a must.

And no visit to Florence is complete without seeing Michelangelo’s David statue in the Galleria dell’Accademia (Gallery of the Academy).

You can also book local art classes while traveling Italy solo, like a fresco workshop . This is one of the many unique art experiences in Florence .

Other must-see monuments include Ponte Vecchio bridge , Palazzo Pitti , and the Boboli Gardens .

For the best sunset view of Florence, take a lovely stroll across the Ponte Vecchio bridge and up to the Piazza Michelangelo for panoramic views overlooking the Arno river and city.

Plan to spend a minimum of 2 days here to have enough time to see the main Florence attractions.

Florence Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Florence . Florence Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Florence .

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in all of Italy. Located in Southern Italy, about an hour south of Naples, this stunning landscape has become an extremely popular tourist destination during the summer.

From picturesque villages perched atop cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea to colorful pastel houses lining narrow cobblestone streets, you’ll find some amazing views that are sure to take your breath away.

Positano has become one of the most iconic destinations to visit in Italy. With its steep terraces cascading down toward turquoise waters and a beautiful beach, this is a fantastic place for solo holidays to Italy. It also connects with one of the Amalfi Coast’s most epic hikes, the Path of the Gods .

Amalfi itself is a wonderful town where you can marvel at its 11th century Duomo di Sant’Andrea Cathedral . There are many hotels in Amalfi , though you can also get here by boat or taxi from Positano.

Ravello is just south of Amalfi and is home to beautiful lush gardens and magnificent villas.

Of all of the Amalfi Coast towns, The most accessible is Sorrento — which is about an hour south of Naples. It has some great shopping and nice beaches, which makes it a great spot for a quick getaway down south.

If you’re looking for a day trip, take a boat to Capri from Sorrento or Positano and explore this stunning island and its iconic beaches and Mediterranean waters.

The easiest way to get around the Amalfi Coast is by boat or by bus. Do not rent a car, as the roads are narrow and traffic is busy during high season.

Amalfi Coast Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Amalfi Coast . Amalfi Coast Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Amalfi Coast .

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is one of the best places to solo travel in Italy. Located in the Liguria region of Italy, Cinque Terre (which translates to “Five Towns”) consists of five small villages perched on rocky cliffs along the Mediterranean Sea.

With its terraced vineyards, colorful homes, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking views, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see destination.

The five towns are:

• Monterosso al Mare
• Riomaggiore

You can easily see all five towns on a day trip from Pisa , but if you want more time to relax at the beach, then 2 days is plenty of time.

To get to Cinque Terre, you’ll need to get a train to La Spezia and then buy a “Cinque Terre Train Pass” to access the local trains. From here, the local train will take you to the coastal towns. It takes just a few minutes to get in between each town.

If you’re looking for an adventure, you can hike on one of the many trails that take you from town to town.

My favorite of these hiking trails is Sentiero Azzurro: Vernazza – Corniglia , which takes about an hour and a half and offers panoramic views of the sea and of the hills. It’s one of the best things to do in Cinque Terre .

Additionally, you can take a Cinque Terre boat tour to gain a unique perspective of the towns from the sea. This is a very relaxing and scenic experience while traveling Italy solo.

During the high-season from May to September, the area gets overcrowded and overrun with tourists. For a more enjoyable experience, you may want to visit during April or October when it’s warmer and not as crowded.

Cinque Terre Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Cinque Terre . Cinque Terre Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Cinque Terre .

Venice is one of the most unique cities in the world and is a popular solo destination in Italy. Walking around the city feels as if you are stepping into history because the buildings feel so untouched by time.

Located on a series of islands connected by canals, bridges, and cobblestone streets, Venice is an exquisite blend of art, history, and culture.

From its iconic gondolas to its stunning architecture to its grandiose palaces and churches, there are countless things to do in Venice ! Here are just some of the top things to do in this magical city:

– Take a gondola ride. One of the main attractions in Venice is its gondolas. Taking a gondola ride through the city’s canals and bridges is an unforgettable experience while traveling Italy solo.

As a female traveling alone in Italy, you may want to book a shared gondola to keep the costs down. Otherwise, a ride can cost up to €80 per boat!

Near St. Mark’s Square , you’ll see a sign for gondola rides. Talk with some other tourists to see if they are willing to split the ride with you.

– Visit St. Mark’s Basilica. This beautiful church, dedicated to Saint Mark, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Venice. Located near the Piazza San Marco , this ornate church features a stunning interior with intricate mosaics.

– Stop by the Rialto Bridge. This historic bridge crossing the Grand Canal is one of Venice’s oldest and most iconic structures. You can take pictures and admire the views of the canal, shops, and palazzos from the bridge.

– Visit Murano Island. Take a boat ride to this tranquil island in the Venetian Lagoon known for its famous glassware. Here you can find beautiful handmade pieces made by expert artisans that are perfect for souvenirs!

– Take a ride in a vaporetto. A vaporetto is a water taxi that runs along the Grand Canal in Venice. This is the cheapest and easiest way to do your own tour of of the city. Grab your ticket just outside of the train station and do a full loop around the canal for wonderful views.

You should spend at least 1 day in Venice to make the most of it. If you’re wanting to visit one of the other islands, then plan on an extra day to have enough time.

No matter what you decide to do when visiting Venice, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!

Venice Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Venice . Venice Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Venice .

Bologna is an up-and-coming destination, which is why it’s included in this Italy solo travel itinerary.

Located just 45 minutes north of Florence, Bologna is one of the best Italian cities for food, as it’s famous for its exceptional cuisine.

You absolutely must dedicate a significant portion of your itinerary to trying the delicious food in Bologna .

The most famous dish is tagliatelle al ragu, which is a flavorful and meaty sauce that is paired with egg pasta noodles. While there are many places to order it, one not-to-miss restaurant is Trattoria Anna Maria , where handmade pasta dishes are cooked with respect to Bolognese tradition.

Another popular dish is tortelloni, which is a stuffed pasta that’s often paired with a sage and butter sauce. To try a variety of tortelloni dishes, check out  Sfoglia Rina  where they serve handmade pasta daily. 

Additionally, Bologna is a city filled with a rich culture and incredible architecture. The stand-out feature of the city are its UNESCO porticoes , which span a total of 62km across the city.

One of the best activities to do while traveling Italy solo is to walk up the Portico di San Luca , which is the longest portico in the world. The walk takes you to a sanctuary on top of a hill where you’ll be greeted with stunning panoramic views of the city.

If you have more time, you can even take a day trip to Modena or Parma for an Italian food tour to taste balsamic vinegar and Parmesan cheese (respectively) straight from the producer. A few options:

• Bologna Food Experience: Factory Visits with Gourmet Lunch and Wine Tasting
• Cars & Food: Lambo, Ferrari, Parmesan & Balsamic Vinegar with Lunch & Private Transport
• Private Emilia Romagna Food Tour Full Day

You’ll need at least 2 days in Bologna to experience everything this underrated city has to offer.

Bologna Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Bologna . Bologna Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Bologna .

Best Italy Tours For Solo Travelers

Looking to have a guide show you around on your solo trip to Italy? A few top-rated options include:

• 8-Day Best of Italy Trip from Rome with Florence & Venice
• 5-Day Best of Italy Trip with Assisi, Siena, Florence, Venice & More
• 3-Day South Italy Tour from Rome: Fall in Love with Pompeii, Sorrento & Capri
• 2-Day South Italy Tour from Rome: Fall in Love with Pompeii, Sorrento & Capri
• Switzerland, Italy & France 7-Day Taste of Europe Trip from Paris
• Multi-Day Italy Tours from GAdventures

Click here for a full list of guided tours in Italy .

Tips For Traveling Italy Solo

There are a few important things to keep in mind during an Italy solo travel experience, like:

1) Book everything in advance. Italy is one of the most popular destinations in the world and the main cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice get very crowded during the high-season.

Try to book everything in advance — like tours, hotels, and transportation — in order to get the best price and to avoid long lines.

2) Get off the beaten path. Of course, you should visit the major sights in Italy; but, sometimes getting away from the hustle and bustle is one of the best ways to experience a country’s authentic culture.

Take a day trip to a small town in Tuscany, stay in a villa in the countryside to enjoy some nature, or escape to the island of Ischia . You’ll be delighted to find that the lesser-known places also offer an amazing solo travel experience.

3) Stay vigilant. As with any major city, pickpocketing is an issue. A family member’s passport and wallet were stolen on the metro in Rome because it was crowded and hard to keep an eye on all of their belongings.

Keep your important stuff close to avoid an unfortunate incident like this. You might also consider wearing hidden pocket clothing to avoid pickpockets .

4) Visit during the shoulder season. The high season in Italy is absolutely insane. Everyone wants to go to Italy, and you’ll experience the overcrowding first-hand if you visit during the summer. Try to take a trip in March, April, or October to enjoy these beautiful places without the crowds.

5) Worried about solo dining? While nobody will even notice that you’re alone, if you’re nervous, consider bringing a book, eating outside of popular dining hours, and opting for less-formal restaurants and trattorias over fine dining establishments.

What Does A Solo Trip To Italy Cost?

The cost of a solo trip to Italy depends on when you visit, where you visit, and the type of traveler you are.

Visiting popular destinations during peak season will come with inflated prices on accommodation and transportation. Alternatively, visiting during low or shoulder season will offer a more affordable experience.

Here’s a look into the cost of traveling solo to Italy:

Accommodation

There are endless options for accommodations in Italy. From 5-star hotels to countryside villas, boutique hotels, and hostels, you’ll have plenty to choose from.

You can get a hostel in a major city for as low as $40 per night and a nice boutique hotel for $200-$300 per night.

Italian cuisine is one of the most beloved in the world. From pizza to pasta, you can’t go wrong with the food when traveling Italy solo!

A plate of pasta will cost you anywhere between €12-€18 on average. Pizza tends to be cheaper, and you can get a Margherita pizza for €10-12 at most places. If you want to pick up a quick bite to eat, you can pick up a pizza slice for just a few euros.

Gelato is a must while you’re in Italy! Depending on where you are, you can usually get a double scoop for €2.50-€3.

Transportation

• Train ticket prices vary depending on how far you are going. A train from Rome to Florence (booked one month in advance) costs anywhere between €15-€25.
• Buses are by far the cheapest way to travel around Italy, although they will take more time. A bus from Rome to Florence costs on average between €4-€12.
• Car rental prices vary greatly depending on the season and the city you are renting in. You can rent a car for around $50-$100 per day during peak season.

The main activities you’ll have to pay for while traveling Italy solo will be museums and tours. Museums can be expensive. For example, the Uffizi Galleries in Florence cost €25 per person to visit. On average, you can expect to pay €15+ for most museums in Italy.

Do You Need Travel Insurance For Italy?

When traveling solo to Italy — or anywhere else in the world — it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country.

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Frequently Asked Questions About Solo Travel To Italy

Now, let’s spend some time answering a few common questions about traveling alone through Italy:

Q) Is Italy good for solo travelers?

Yes! Italy is a great destination for solo travelers. It’s safe, the food is amazing, it’s easy to get around, and there are endless things to do.

Q) Is Rome good for solo travel?

Rome is a wonderful destination for any solo traveler. The city is walkable and has plenty of historical sites that are easy and enjoyable to discover on your own.

Q) Is Italy safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Italy is considered safe for solo female travelers. Make sure to take the normal precautions and you should be fine.

Q) What is the best time to visit Italy?

While you can visit during any time of year, the fall season is one of the best times to visit Italy. The weather is usually fantastic and the summer crowds have slowed down by this point. That being said, if you’re planning to visit beach destinations, then summer is the best time to visit.

Q) What are the best places in Italy for solo travelers?

The major cities — such as Rome, Florence, and Venice — are all fantastic places in Italy for solo travelers. These places are relatively safe and have many options for accommodations and activities. Plus, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet other solo travelers in Italy here.

Final Thoughts On Solo Travel In Italy

Italy is one of the best destinations for solo travelers. Along with being safe, it’s also full of places to go, things to do, sights to see, food to eat, and people to meet.

And no matter what your interests are or what your travel style is, you can find an Italy itinerary to suit you.

In short, if you’re feeling pulled to take a solo trip to Italy, you won’t regret it!

What would you add to this guide on traveling Italy solo?

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About The Author

Jenoa is a travel writer based in the United States. She has traveled extensively throughout Europe and shares all of her insider tips on the best destinations, eats, and hotels in Europe on her blog, The Travel Folk . You can also follow along on Instagram and Pinterest .

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Europe , Solo travel

Solo travel in italy – best destinations & tips.

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Thinking of travelling solo in Italy? Well, I’ll start by saying I’ve done it and I recommend it! Italy is one of the most popular countries to visit in the world known for its breathtaking historical sites, world-class museums, and outrageously delicious food. But is solo female travel in Italy all it’s cracked up to be? In this guide, I’ll summarise the pros and cons and share my tips for visiting. I’ll also dive into the best places to travel by yourself in Italy from north to south.

ITALY ESSENTIALS Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld Getting there: flight / car / bus / train Getting around: car / bus / train Activities: GetYourGuide / Viator Food experiences: EatWith

Read next: my tips for solo travel in Europe

Good things about solo travel in Italy

• Italy is relatively safe – Wisevoter have ranked it the 31st safest country in the world making it very safe for solo female travel
• It has great infrastructure , hostels and tours where you’ll meet other solo travellers
• There’s great public transport from trains to buses so you’ll have no problems getting around.

Challenging things about solo travel in Italy

• Italy can be expensive especially in the summer months (and particularly in the north), plus you need to book in advance which can be annoying if your plans change. One of the downsides of solo travel is that it can be more expensive, meaning those travelling alone may feel the brunt of Italy’s heightened summer costs.

Read next: 30 best places in the world for solo female travel

Is Italy safe for solo female travellers?

In a word – yes! Italy is a relatively safe country; the worst thing you will face is pickpocketing in big cities. Although I’m not saying that’s necessarily a ‘small’ thing: I know first-hand how inconvenient it can be to have your phone and bank cards stolen when travelling alone (that’s a solo Vietnam travel story). For that reason, I suggest bringing a secure cross-body bag especially when you’re in big, touristy cities like Rome. Just bring out what you need for the day and don’t carry unnecessary amounts of cash or all your cards; I usually leave a spare at my accommodation (in a locker if I’m staying in a dorm). Follow these tips and it’s a perfectly safe place for solo women travelling in Europe ! It’s worth also researching common scams in Italy so you’re prepared.

Read next: the ultimate guide to solo female travel safety

How to get around Italy alone

By train: Italy has a fantastic train network; you can buy tickets at the station or in advance at RailEurope or Trainline . By bus: the convenient bus network is often cheaper for budget travellers. I use Flixbus to get affordable journies in Europe. You can catch them around Italy and also cross borders; I journeyed by Flixbus from Ljubljana (Slovenia) to Venice to start my recent solo trip in Italy. BlaBlaCar : this shared car service is popular around Europe. Drivers advertise spare seats when they’re planning a journey, saving everyone money. Although you may feel nervous about travelling in a stranger’s car as a solo woman, I’ve done it several times with no problems (in places with more safety concerns than Italy). Ultimately, it depends how comfortable you feel.

Staying connected online

Understandably, you might want to stay connected while travelling solo beyond going on hostel Wi-Fi. Although Italy is safe, I find having mobile data makes me feel safer everywhere because I know I can download maps, access transport directions and call an Uber if I need to exit any situation, especially at night. I recommend Airalo , an e-SIM platform allowing you to download SIM cards online for various countries before visiting and connect as soon as you arrive. A real game-changer! They have Italy packages (for 7-30 days) as well as a Euro SIM that covers 39 countries. This may be more economical if you plan to visit other countries, too.

What makes a good solo female travel destination in Italy?

As a relatively safe country, there aren’t too many places you can’t visit alone in Italy. But some are better than others depending on what you’re looking for. Stick to the big cities if you want to stay busy with endless attractions and meet other travellers through activities and hostels. On the other hand, there are places for solo travellers in Italy (such as the lake towns and countryside regions) where you can enjoy nature and feel introspective without so many distractions. It just depends what you’re in the mood for! Sadly, I haven’t been everywhere in Italy yet (don’t worry, it’s on the list!) hence I called in some other trusted solo female travellers to share their recommendations. After my top picks, I’ll share their favourite places, too, so you have plenty to choose from.

Best places for solo travel in Northern Italy

The north of Italy has incredible lakes, must-visit cities, and even spectacular coastline. Places to add to a North Italy itinerary for solo travellers include…

Venice is a city that divides the masses and I’ve heard people say it’s the most overrated city they’ve ever been to, while others have told me it’s so beautiful they cried when they laid their eyes on it. What do I think? Well, provided you have the energy for it and your wits about you, Venice is a ball! You will walk for hours and miles every day in Venice amongst the alleyways heaving with tourists. You will see some of the most spectacular sights of your lifetime and eat some delicious things. Oh, you will get so, so ripped off around St Marks’s Square (eat anywhere else!). You’ll probably notice how dirty the city is. But it’s one of those places I think you have to see in your lifetime!

Read next: 2 day Venice itinerary

Good things about solo travel in Venice:

• All the snacky cicchetti – small bites at casual cafes mean there’s no need to go for an awkward candlelit dinner for one. It’s also easy to find takeaway food, like €3 pizza slices at Farini or €10 seafood cones at Frito Inn   Seriously, food is everywhere!
• You walk everywhere on the island since cars are not allowed, so there’s no need to pay for taxis for one. Also, it’s easy and cheap to get a bus across the bridge from the mainland (where I presume you’ll be staying unless you’re on a budget)
• There’s so much to see and do that you definitely won’t get bored or think about the fact you’re alone!

Things to do alone in Venice

• Ride the ferry to Murano and Burano – the ferry ride is a fun and affordable way to see Venice, and the islands are beautiful. Visiting Burano is like walking through a rainbow, while Murano is known for its spectacular glass. The glass museum is worth a visit and so is a glassblowing workshop.
• Visit St Mark’s Bascilia – this monument dating back to the 8th century is one of the most popular places to visit, so get there early to line up! Entry to the interior is free, or you can buy a ticket including the rooftop, museum, skip-the-line entry and guide.
• The Doge’s Palace – the palace of the ex-magistrate is a sight to behold dripping with gold and fancy art. Your ticket  includes the chance to walk over the famous Bridge of Sighs.
• Go up the Campanile for a bird’s eye view of the city.
• Find Libreria Acqua Alta  bookstore and take a photo in the static gondola bobbing out back. No need to splash out on an expensive gondola ride for one!

Where to stay in Venice: I stayed at  AO Hostel Venizia Mestre 2   on the mainland, seconds from the bus stop that takes you to the island for around €2. So convenient! It’s a clean, modern base with dorms from €29 and private rooms from €50. You can compare it with other Venice hostels on Hostelworld .

Milan is a city that gets mixed reviews from travellers with many saying it’s boring or too posh. Indeed, it’s one of the more expensive cities in Italy but I enjoyed seeing how the other half live and window shopping the fancy boutiques.

Read next: 2 day Milan itinerary

I took a fascinating free walking tour in Milan then went for one of the best sandwiches I’ve ever had (at All’Antico Vinaio ) with a new friend from the tour. Browsing the fancy Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping mall is a must and the Duomo Cathedral is a real wonder. There are pleasant parks in Milan like Sempione Park and some unusual attractions like Monumental Cemetery  (where the graves are elaborate, arty temples) and the Vertical Forest skyscrapers covered in plants that reminded me of Singapore.

Read next: is Milan worth visiting?

There’s enough to do in Milan to keep you busy and some casual, budget eats. At Aldente Pastabar , you’ll pay €10 for pasta, a drink and dessert! Tip – although I hate everything about Starbucks as a corporation, there’s only one place in central Milan to use the bathrooms, Wi-Fi and top up your water bottle for free, and it’s their store. I used it regularly and got my coffee elsewhere!

Where to stay in Milan: I loved YellowSquare Hostel with two restaurants, a bar and yoga studio inside! Although it’s a social base, the beds (each dorm bunk has its own light and plug socket) make for a good night’s sleep.  Check availability from €30 per night or browse all Milan hostels on Hostelworld .

Verona is a historic city in the north of Italy, known as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Although it’s just an hour from the modern, glitzy city of Milan, this small city is utterly charming – a complete contrast! It’s worth visiting both to compare. Explore Verona Arena dating back to 30 AD, visit Juliet’s house and balcony, and climb or catch the cable car to Castel San Pietro  for the best views in town, aside from possibly those from Torre dei Lamberti   (€6 entry). Like everywhere in Italy, there’s great food in Verona : my highlight was unusual red wine risotto. Where to stay in Verona: the Hostello  is one of the best hostels I stayed in during my solo travels in Italy with spacious rooms, a garden, modern kitchen and relaxation area.  Check availability from €25 per night or browse all Verona hostels on Hostelworld .

Lake Como (for soul-searching away from the crowds)

Renowned for its stunning scenery and alluring lakeside villages, Lake Como is a great place for solo female travellers in Italy thanks to the quiet towns and friendly locals that provide a peaceful and stress-free experience. The region boasts historic villas, churches and museums, alongside chances to hike, bike and explore by boat.   When it comes to food, there’s no shortage of restaurants and cafes to try authentic Italian cuisine: Trattoria San Giacomo is a budget-friendly standout in Bellagio. Don’t miss a wine tasting at Aperitivo Bar across the road before dinner. Make the most of Lake Como by spending a few days exploring the various towns dotted around the lake’s edge with the well-connected ferry service. Staying in Como provides a broader choice of affordable accommodations from hostels to hotels. Where to stay in Como: the best option for those on a budget is Ostello Bello Lake Como with bunks from €28. You get a welcome drink and free coffee and tea, plus the staff are super friendly, earning it 9.6 stars on Hostelworld. Recommended by Bronwyn of Bronwyn Townsend .

Tuscany is a safe region with wonderful local culture to explore. There are a wide range of group activities and fun things to do for solo travellers like Vespa tours and bike tours in Tuscany , some including wine tasting at a vineyard! To experience a charming medieval city in Tuscany, head to Siena , where you can drink Aperol Spritz on Piazza del Campo, the famous shell-shaped square where the medieval Palio Festival takes place in August. Explore the Duomo complex to meander through masterpieces of none other than Michelangelo and Donatello. You might also enjoy Lucca with its medieval city walls and charming old town. A smaller place to visit is San Gimignano , a typical Tuscan town. Climb Torre Grossa for sweeping views of Tuscany’s rolling hills and vineyards. If you drive, make sure to stop by Monteriggioni , a tiny walled town that can easily be visited in under an hour. Another must on a road trip is driving around Val d’Orcia where you can admire the iconic Cypress trees. Most places in Tuscany can be visited on group tours from the cities which is a great way to meet other solo travellers in Italy. Recommended by Linn Haglund of Brainy Backpackers .

Florence is a great destination for those travelling alone in Italy because of the sheer number of attractions. You can spend a day in Florence walking around the old town which feels like an open-air museum.

Start the morning with a visit to the imposing cathedral and the Duomo, which gets crowded later in the day. Climb the bell tower to get beautiful views of the city and stroll through the impressive city squares. Don’t miss the famous Uffizi Gallery and Galleria Academia (but make sure to book your ticket in advance). The sunset views over River Arno while crossing the old bridge, Ponte Vecchio, are fabulous. Head to Piazza Michelangelo in the evening for the best views of the city.

Sitting at any of the cafes in the squares and watching people while sipping coffee is a delight in Florence. The city also offers some of the best gelato in Italy. Where to stay in Florence: you can rely on the YellowSquareFlorence with a rooftop pool or Ostello Bello Firenze which is a funky modern hostel with beds from €35. Browse all hostels in Florence on Hostelworld . Recommended by Shweta of Zest in A Tote .

For solo travel in Italy, the capital is a must-visit, home to one of the New Wonders of the World. Rome is a safe city to visit, but keep your eyes open for scams and never leave your belongings unattended as pickpockets are active. 

If you just have 2 days in Rome , hit the most important landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill. From there, head to Piazza Venezia for the Altar of the Fatherland: its terrace offers one of the most impressive views in the city. On your way to the historic centre (home of Trevi Fountain, Campo de’ Fiori and the Spanish Steps) stop at Largo di Torre Argentina where there’s a cat sanctuary!

On your second day, visit the Vatican: St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Then walk to Castel Sant’Angelo, where the highlight is the view of St. Peter’s. From there, it’s an easy walk to Trastevere, one of the liveliest neighbourhoods in Rome. For the best traditional cuisine in Rome, try Felice A Testaccio : its tonnarelli cacio e pepe are legendary.

Where to stay in Rome: for a reliable hostel in several Italian cities, go for Yellow Square with beds from €29. Compare all Rome hostels on Hostelworld . Recommended by Claudia Tavani, My Adventures Across The World .

Sirmione, Lake Garda

Lake Garda is the largest lake in northern Italy located between Milan and Verona. It’s a popular destination thanks to its mild climate, great food and wine, and beautiful landscapes. On the southern tip of Lake Garda is Sirmione, the largest and most popular town on the lake, easily reached by bus. There are many great things to do in Sirmione , such as visiting the medieval Scaliger Castle and thermal baths, enjoying the panoramic views from the Roman Villa, swimming at Jamaica Beach and simply strolling the historic old town while enjoying some gelato. Lake Garda and Sirmione are very safe for solo female travel in Italy, even at night, as long as you take the usual precautions. The streets are well lit and most of the restaurants are open till late. Where to stay in Lake Garda: although there aren’t hostels with dorms, you can get some decent deals of private rooms especially out of season; try Hostelworld and Booking.com . Recommended by Anna of Big World Short Stories .

Bologna is one of the friendliest cities in Italy for solo travel. Locals will welcome you with open arms and direct you to attractions and traditional restaurants that’ll help you experience Italian culture. Bologna is filled with attractions to keep you busy such as Porticoes of Bologna (a UNESCO Heritage Site) and Sanctuary San Luca surrounded by countryside views that may take your breath away (if it wasn’t already taken by the uphill climb!). If you’d rather stick to the city centre, head to Piazza Maggiore to see the main attractions and watch the world go by. You might even catch a street performance. Bologna is also a hub for mouth-watering Italian food; head to Mercato di Mezzo for street food stalls – ideal for solo travellers who don’t want to sit alone in a restaurant. Where to stay in Bologna: there are several affordable options with great reviews on Hostelworld ; for example Il Nosadillo and Dopa Hostel both from €25. Recommended by Jess from Sight Seekr .

Cinque Terre

Located on the Italian Riviera coastline, the name Cinque Terre literally means ‘5 lands’, primarily because the area is made up of 5 different villages: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore.  Solo female travellers in Italy will find these fishing villages delightful places to explore, and incredibly safe. One of the best  things to do in Cinque Terre is the hike between the five villages along the coastal path with postcard-perfect views the whole way. The trail itself isn’t too difficult (although there were a few steep parts) and there’s a shop about halfway selling fresh orange juice. As well as hiking, simply exploring the villages is worthwhile. Find secret spots and get lost within the winding alleyways. Other highlights include boat trips and delicious seafood restaurants. Where to stay in Cinque Terre: with great reviews, Hostel Ospitalia del Mare have dorms and privates for not much more, while Mar-Mar have dorms for under €25. Browse all options in Cinque Terre on Hostelworld . Recommended by Alice from Adventures of Alice .

Best places for solo travel in Southern Italy

The cheaper and more relaxed south of Italy is idyllic with beautiful weather and divine Mediterranean cuisine. Here’s where to head…

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast, nestled in the sun-soaked embrace of Southern Italy, offers a perfect blend of safety and adventure. The enchanting cliffside villages like Positano and Amalfi provide a secure environment for exploration, accompanied by a variety of hostels and hotels. With panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, the Amalfi Coast is the ideal place for solo travellers who love hiking and gorgeous beaches with a mix of historical gems like the Amalfi Cathedral and the many villas along the coast. I recommend doing a cooking class while in the area, or simply dancing the night away at Music On The Rocks, a cave club with scenic views in Positano. 

Getting to the Amalfi Coast is part of the adventure with options including a scenic drive (or bus ride) along winding coastal roads or a relaxing ferry ride from Naples. Whether strolling through charming villages, exploring historical landmarks or savouring local cuisine, the Amalfi Coast promises a delightful solo travel experience, where safety, beauty and adventure merge on the stunning Italian coastline.  Recommended by Meryl of Merryl’s Travel & Tricks . Where to base on the Almafi coast? I recommend…

If you’re looking for a safe seaside city suitable for solo female travel in Italy, head to Salerno at the base of the Amalfi Coast. Unlike the small towns loaded with tourists and high-priced hotels, in Salerno, you’ll hear less English and find everything more affordable and the people friendlier.

In Salerno, there’s a real sense of community. Witness it every evening during the ‘passagata’ when everyone takes their pre-dinner stroll down the main street, Corso Vittorio Emanuele. There’s also a wonderful coastal path along the shore of the city that offers beautiful Mediterranean views, especially at dusk when it’s perfectly safe to walk alone.

As a Roman colony in 197 BC, Salerno is an important historical city with plenty to see such as its 11th-century cathedral. Afterwards, go to the Minerva Gardens for the vista. You’re close enough to take the ferry to Amalfi or Positano and the views from the ferry alone are worth it.

Another reason to visit Salerno: some of the best food in Italy ! Enjoy Caprese salads, seafood pasta, Neapolitan pizza and sfogliatella pastries. And don’t forget the limoncello!  Where to stay in Salerno: there’s more in the way of B&Bs in Salerno than hostels but that’s ok because prices start from €22. Browse them on Hostelworld . Salerno recommended by Denise of Chef Denise .

Naples is one of the best places to travel solo in Italy. Yes, it’s loud and chaotic, but it’s safe. It’s a city of art, history, architecture, delicious food and affectionate people. Its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you’re an art lover, 10 museums and over 40 art galleries await you in Naples. Over 400 historic churches and 50 palaces can satisfy any architectural thirst. In addition, if you dream of sleeping in a palace, you can do it in Naples; some of them are Airbnbs and B&Bs now!

As the home of pizza, Naples is a city of fabulous food. Gino e Toto Sorbillo is a Michelin-starred pizzeria in the heart of the historic centre known for some of the best pizzas in Naples. It’s always full with long queues, for good reason! However, the culinary scene is not only about pizza. Try traditional minestrone soup, frittatina Napoletana (pasta omelette), zuppa ‘e cozzeche cu ‘o rrusso (spicy mussel soup) or casatiello bread. Joining a food walking tour to explore the culinary delights is one of the   top things to do in Naples ! Where to stay in Naples: there are endless hostels in Naples (browse them on Hostelworld ) but you can’t do better than Tric a Trac with bunks from €20 and sparkling reviews. Recommend by Milijana of World Travel Connector .

West of Sicily

Trapani is a quaint city tucked away in West Sicily. The old town is set on a peninsula surrounded by vibrant blue seas on each side. It’s an ideal destination for solo travellers in Italy, especially if you’re looking for some tranquil self-time away from bustling cities. 

The city offers a wide array of accommodation options catering to various budgets although for the most immersive experience, staying in the Old Town is recommended so you’re right in the heart of the photogenic cobblestone streets and historic architecture with restaurants, bars and amenities. 

The West of Sicily often gets overlooked, as most visitors flock to the east coast and the areas surrounding Mt Etna, however, there’s a multitude of lesser-visited gems in this region. Easy day trips include the medieval hilltop town of Erice . A short cable car ride from Trapani takes you to the top, where you can meander through the charming streets and enjoy the tranquil ambience.

For beach lovers, island hopping to the Egadi Islands is a must. These islands, accessible via short ferry rides from Trapani, boast some of the most pristine beaches in the region. The azure waters and white sandy beaches provide the perfect setting for relaxation or adventure-filled water sports.

Further afield is the city of Marsala famed for its wine, as well as the photogenic city of Mazara del Vallo . Finally, be sure to explore the Arab district – it looks just like a little Morocco! For history buffs, a trip to Selinunte Archaeological Park to explore the ancient ruins is a must.

Trapani’s direct airport access ensures hassle-free travel, making it an even more appealing destination for solo expeditions. Where to stay in Trapani: although there are no hostels, there are lots of B&Bs with private rooms from €3. Not too bad at all! Submitted by Becki from Meet Me In Departures .

Is it expensive to solo travel in Italy?

In a word, yes, it’s pretty expensive but it depends on where you’re comparing it to. It’s much more expensive than travelling alone in Asia or Eastern Europe and I even found parts of Portugal cheaper. But compared to the UK, Ireland, the Netherlands and the Nordics, it’s cheap in Italy.

I noticed a lot of blogs quoting around €150 a day as an average daily cost for Italy. It may be the average but you can do it way cheaper – I did! If you visit in off-season and stay in hostels, eat snaky food rather than at restaurants, and take public transport around, you can do a solo trip to Italy on €50 a day. Of course, having a higher budget will allow you to enter more attractions and maximise the trip.

Budget tips

There are plenty of countries in the world where it’s cheaper to stay in big cities because there’s a wider variety of affordable accommodation options such as hostels. However, the touristic cities in Italy do get very expensive during the summer, especially those in the north. If you’re on a budget, it can be cheaper down south. If you don’t mind some alone time, you’ll get better bargains in quiet places than you will in a city like Milan or Rome! Budget tips for Italy :

• Visit the museums for free on the first Sunday of the month
• Eat away from the city centres – restaurants here are usually expensive and not so good. It only takes going a few streets out to find fairer prices. I recommend doing your research in advance (I use Google Maps to find places and check the reviews or read foodie travel blogs )
• Cooking in Italy may seem a crying shame but you can buy delicious cheeses, meats and wines at grocery stores and make your own picnic meals for a steal compared to restaurants
• Take public transport – it’s clean and affordable. Even in an expensive city like Milan, the subway only costs €12 for 3 days. Coming from London, I found this super affordable!

How to meet people during solo female travel in Italy

There are plenty of ways I make friends when travelling alone . Here are a few…

• Stay in hostels – there are brilliant ones in Italy! The YellowSquare hostels in Rome, Florence and Milan have amenities like yoga studios and restaurants inside. Hostelworld is my go-to for researching and booking hostels
• Day tours and activities – companies like GetYourGuide and Viator have SO many options in Italy from food tours to cooking classes and day trips to regions hard to access by public transport. You can also find cool things to do on Airbnb Experiences
• Use Facegroup groups like Girls Love Travel to connect with other female travellers who are visiting at the same time as you
• Join the locals for an aperitivo after work – 6-8pm is when to sip Italian beverages like Aperol Spritz, Negroni and Campari along with small snacks. Who knows who you’ll meet!

Tips for solo travel in Italy

• Brush up on your Italian – although lots of people speak English (especially if they work in tourism), basic Italian phrases will help you
• Download offline maps (Maps.me or simply Google Maps) if you’re out and about without a local SIM card
• Get in your own photos – you want photos of your adventures, after all! Use my guide to solo travel photography for tips
• Avoid peak season and weekends – especially when visiting popular attractions. I scheduled my rest days for weekends then visited busy places early on weekday mornings
• Get used to dining alone – no one is thinking about you, I promise, and you don’t want to miss out on all the amazing food! Of course, if it’s your first time travelling alone and you’re feeling nervous, you can eat snacky foods like chichetti, maximise bakeries and get takeaway pizzas.
• Geek up on your Italian coffee order – a cafe macchiato is a little coffee with a drop of milk while a latte macchiato is a regular-sized latte with milk. And don’t order just a latte as it will be a glass of milk !

Best season to visit Italy alone

I highly recommend shoulder season of spring (March to early June) and autumn (late September to early November) because prices are lower and places are less crowded. If you must go in high season (the summer months of mid-June to mid-September), I urge you to book as far ahead as possible and get up early to explore before it gets too hot and crowded.

What to pack

• Comfy footwear – you’ll need it during busy days!
• Microfibre quick-drying towel – ideal if you have limited luggage space
• Security: a handy bum bag with secure zip
• Combination padlock (ideal for hostel lockers)
• Solo photography pick: Manfrotto tripod and Joby Gorillapod
• A power bank to keep your devices alive
• Sustainability: stainless steel reusable water bottle to reduce the use of plastic bottles
• Travel luggage: Osprey Farpoint backpack ( women’s ).

Travel insurance

Just because Italy is safe for solo travel, it doesn’t mean you should skip travel insurance. Illness and injuries can occur anywhere, and so can petty crime like pickpocketing of your valuables. I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Last time I claimed, they paid out within 2 days! Get a free quote in 2 minutes . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing .

Thanks for reading!

I hope you have a better idea of where to travel solo in Italy, whether it’s safe to visit alone, and what to know before you go!

Solo travel in Europe :

• Where to travel alone in Albania
• Solo female travel in Lisbon
• Solo female travel in Portugal
• Croatia solo travel
• Solo Romania travel

Travel solo in Asia :

• Solo travel in Bali
• The best places for solo female travel in India
• Is solo travel in India safe?
• Tips for travelling solo in Malaysia
• Solo female travel in Vietnam
• Solo travel in Thailand
• Is Taiwan good for solo female travel?
• Solo female travel in South Korea

Solo travel in the Americas:

• Mexico solo travel guide
• Guide for women travelling solo in Mexico City
• Tips for travelling alone to New York
• Travelling alone in Cuba – what you need to know
• Solo travel in Guatemala
• Solo travel in Belize, is it safe?

For more content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube

TRUSTED RESOURCES FOR VISITING ITALY Getting around by air – I use Skyscanner and search by month to see the cheapest dates. Driving in Europ e – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in Italy (and all around the world). For trains , both RailEurope and Trainline offer excellent service in Italy. The search feature allows you to compare prices, and they show live departure times on the website. For buses , I use FlixBus . Find journeys from €1!  Use Omio to compare trains and buses in one search. It’s so handy! For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide . To stay connected, download an e-SIM with Airalo and connect when you land. Browse their packages for Italy or get a Eurolink SIM for 39 countries. Need travel insurance? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s some of the most affordable insurance out there but still covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . For Italian food experiences from cooking classes to market visits hosted by locals, use EatWith . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and budget tips from my 10+ years on the road!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

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How to Solo Travel Italy!

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: February 3, 2024

Categories Europe

Guys, I must say, there really is no solo travel like Italy solo travel.

Because honestly?

Italy really is the PERFECT country to travel solo in!

It’s a place where life is best taken slowly – with afternoons spent people-watching in a piazza and days spent listening to the sounds of the sea lapping up against the shore.

Just be sure to chase those days with some mouthwatering pizza and you’ll be good to go, especially if that pizza is brought to you by a tall, handsome, stranger.

You definitely don’t want anyone else getting in the way of all that next level awesome, Italy solo travel, now do you?

No, a thousand times no (That’s the correct answer, in case you were wondering)!

Like anywhere in the world, there are some safety concerns associated with doing a solo trip to Italy.

Which is why I’m here! 

I’m gonna share all of my expert tips on how to plan a trip to Italy solo with you, so that you can quickly, put all of those nightmare inducing scenes from Taken out of your mind.

Because I pinkie promise:

Italy really is an amazingly safe country for solo female travelers , with exceptionally low rates of violent crime,.

Contrary to what Hollywood might have you think, you definitely won’t  be confronted by the Mafia as they, “make you an offer you can’t refuse”.

Unless you literally go around banging on doors and demanding to see them.

But you’re way too smart to do something like that!

You’re a busy woman.

Let’s skip the idle chit chat and take a closer look at how to plan some solo trips to Italy, as we discover why this beautiful country is an amazing place to fly solo (pun intended)!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my  disclosure  for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Solo Travel Italy 101: How to Stay Safe During Your Solo Trip to Italy!

1. Forget About the Mafia. They’ve Got Bigger Fish to Fry

In case you’re still not totally convinced of just how safe Italy really is, let’s tackle and completely squash the idea that you might actually encounter any member of the Mafia.

While there are some active, organized crime syndicates in various parts of Italy (most notably Sicily, Calabria, and Naples), I can almost guarantee that you won’t have any issues with them.

Like at all.  

“Why?” You may rightly wonder?

Well: 

When The Mafia actually does target an individual, it’s usually someone who is a part of a large business or someone who is a government official.

They just really don’t have any interest in tourists who will be leaving the country within a few days.

That’s why:

It’s very unlikely that you’ll find even a trace of them during your solo trip to Italy.

Let’s tick that unrealistic concern off your never-ending list of worries!

2. Don’t Worry Too Much About Unwanted, Male Attention

Like I’ve said before:

Italy really is a super-safe country for solo female travelers!

And while you may be concerned about Italian men and their reputation for being overly flirtacious, I personally haven’t experienced, or seen, any harassment of women while I’ve been in Italy.

Some guys may be a bit flirty in manner, but it’s generally slightly tongue in cheek and self-effacing and nothing disrespectful.

Always use common sense when judging a particular situation. And if something feels off or like it has gone too far, then a simple “ non, grazie ” (no thanks) or “ basta ” (that’s enough) should suffice.

If the behavior does persist, then be sure to seek help from others by saying “ aiuto! ” (“help”, pronounced aye-YOO-toe).

3. Watch Out for Pickpockets

The biggest problem that you’ll likely encounter as a solo female traveler are pickpockets.

Sadly, this is the most common scenario in which you’ll become the victim of crime!

And Rome, Milan, Verona, and Naples are all notorious, pickpocketing capitals of Italy.

When traveling to these Italian cities, always be sure to keep an extra-close eye on your belongings, especially near train stations and historical sites since these are the places where pickpockets are most likely to strike.

And while the Colosseum in Rome is utterly amazing:

You definitely don’t want to lose all of your hard-earned dollar bills while getting a photograph of it, now do you?

No, you do not! That’s why:

You should always make sure that your valuables are securely stored within the deepest, darkest recesses of your backpack, making them rather difficult for pickpockets to find and access (If you’re super concerned, you can always get a lock for your bag or purchase an anti-theft backpack, like the one shown on this list of best carry on bags for women ).

I would also suggest leaving most of your valuables inside the safe, back at your hotel and carrying only the cash and credit cards that you need for the day.

If your wallet does get stolen, you’ll still have cash, a credit card, and a debit card all, readily available to you, back at your hotel.

Now, I know this all seems a bit excessive, but trust me:

I had my wallet stolen in Barcelona and can assure you that it is a very UN-FUN experience!

4. Be Careful When Walking Around Alone, at Night

In general:

Italy is a pretty safe place to wander around alone, at night.

Which is awesome since Italy has this uncanny talent for lighting up some of its most spectacular buildings in the evening (Don’t believe me? Go see the Duomo in Florence, at night, and tell me I’m wrong!).

There’s really no better way to walk off all those calories than with a quiet, post-dinner walk.

Even though, after all that delicious pasta, you may feel more like nursing your enormous food baby back at your hotel.

However, that being said:

Some Italian cities are a bit safer in the evening than others.

So while you’ll generally be safe in most city centers and touristed areas, there are a few neighborhoods, in certain cities that are best avoided after sundown.

These include:

Rome: Tor Bella Monaca, Trullo, Corviale, and the area around the Termini railway station.

Milan : Generally safe, but avoid the main train station in the evening.

Naples : Scampia and Secondigliano.

You won’t have to worry about anything too bad since violent crimes and muggings are both relatively uncommon throughout Italy.

You’ll definitely want to avoid looking too much like a tourist, or flaunting any expensive items that you own.

Just appear confident by walking with purpose and looking straight ahead.

Also be sure to keep an eye on your bag, as well as your surroundings, and you should be totally fine, except for maybe a slight problem with inadvertently going cross-eyed.

Solo Travel Italy: What You Need to Know About Public Transportation!

Italy has an absolutely fantastic train network, making it really fast, and easy, for you to hop from one city to another.

No, really.

Just stand in the central train station of basically any major city, and you’ll see a departures board full of tantalizing sights and cities, all of which are just a quick, train ride away.

The only MAJOR headache that you might experience are with the tickets themselves!

“How can a simple piece of paper cause such unimaginable levels of stress?”, I hear you groan!

It all has to do with the fact that Italy has a very strict system in place for validating train tickets.

Even though you may be happily sitting there, clutching your newly purchased ticket, with the correct date on it, all of that really doesn’t matter if you haven’t correctly validated your ticket before boarding the train.

Because failure to do so could lead to a hefty, 60 euro fine!

Talk about Yikes!

And no, feigning ignorance because you’re a tourist won’t help either.

Some kindly train conductors may take mercy on your poor wretched soul, others won’t.

Try to avoid the 60 Euro fine altogether and ALWAYS validate your ticket before boarding a train. Even if you’re worried that you might miss your train!

Where can you find this saucy little minx of a machine?

Well, validation machines are usually pretty easy to spot since they’re either bright yellow or powder blue in color.

Feel free to ask a nearby station worker if you’re having trouble finding one.

Like trains:

Buses in Italy are also quite plentiful and reliable, even though they do tend to get quite crowded, especially in busy, well touristed areas, like the Amalfi Coast.

Now, not surprisingly:

Buses also run on the same type of ticket validation system as trains.

You’ll typically purchase a ticket at the local tobacconist, validate it in a small machine attached to a pole behind the driver, and that’s it!

Easy peasey!

And yes, most attempts at buying a ticket directly from the driver are futile and will result in you being directed to the nearest tobacconist, as you cry salty tears and watch the bus sail off into the distance without you.

Because in all seriousness:

Public transportation in Italy is nothing if not punctual.

Which is why these buses and trains wait for no one!

If there is one, steadfast rule that holds true for basically the entire continent of Europe, it’s that taxis SUCK.

Yeah, it’s true.

Almost without exception, they’re incredibly overpriced, especially for a part of the world that has notoriously wonderful public transportation systems.

Feel free to ignore all of those overly pushy taxi drivers who will try and escort you to and from the airport.

Because unless you’re pressed for time, or heir to the Kardashian fortune, then the taxi ride really isn’t worth the exorbitant fee.

Make use of that highly efficient, Italian public transport system that you’ve been hearing so much about!

Both of Rome’s airports are serviced by train lines that will quickly take you right into the city center, as is the case with Milan.

In contrast:

Venice, Naples, and Bologna are all served by an ample number of shuttle buses that will quickly take you to and from the airport.

Florence, however, is the slight anomaly in this equation since it’s generally cheaper for you to fly into Pisa and then catch a train from Pisa to Florence .

Thankfully though:

This is extremely simple to do, and gives you the opportunity to visit the world-famous, Leaning Tower of Pisa if you should feel so inclined!

Regardless of where your travels will take you during your solo trip to Italy, you’ll have zero problems getting to and from the airport!

When is the Best Time of Year for a Solo Trip to Italy?

Although it’s possible to have a fabulous solo trip to Italy during any time of the year, it’s safe to say that the best time to visit Italy is in either May, June, or September.

These are the best months for enjoying comfortable weather conditions that include pleasantly warm, sunny, verging almost on hot, days.

If you can:

Try to visit in May, when the country’s many fields of flowers are in full bloom, leaving areas like the Amalfi Coast and Florence simply resplendent with botanical beauty.

Hotel prices at this time of year are also infinitely cheaper than they are at the height of summer!

Speaking of summer:

Italy can get unbearably hot and humid throughout much of July and August.

The country also becomes totally inundated with tourists, making this the worst time of year to visit the country (PS: Traveling to the marshland of Venice in July and August is an exceptionally bad idea since the city is brimming over with tourists).

Most locals tend to take their vacations any time after August 15th, as they attempt to escape the heat and enjoy the cooler climates of the mountains.

A lot of local businesses will actually be closed during this time of year, which is yet another reason why you should avoid Italy like the plague during the summer.

And while spending the winter in Italy can make for an enjoyable trip:

I wouldn’t expect too much sun since Italy can get extremely rainy (and COLD) during the winter months.

And while winter prices are accordingly, quite low:

Some cities make for better winter destinations than others, so prepare accordingly when planning your Italy solo travel itinerary (If you can, avoid Venice in the winter since it’s prone to flooding. Also avoid the Amalfi Coast since most businesses in the area will be closed for the winter).

11 Amazing Places to Visit When Traveling to Italy Alone

The Eternal City has been delighting people since ancient times – well, with the notable exception of the gladiators doing battle with lions in the Colosseum.

But, that’s a tale for another post.

These days, Rome is pure, Italian heaven for anyone looking to do a bit of Rome solo travel.

Rome might be a bit more chaotic and less relaxed than a lot of other Italian cities, but it more than makes up for with it’s wealth of ancient ruins.

The Colosseum is the most visually impressive, (Visit via the Metro system, and prepare to be amazed as you exit the station!), and famous of these, but it is only the start of the amazing network of Ancient Roman ruins that you can explore.

Take some time to visit the vast, complex of the Roman Forum , which was once the power base of a massive empire that stretched all along the Mediterranean, or the impressive Pantheon with its iconic, oculus in the ceiling.

You’ll literally struggle to walk around the city without stumbling over yet another piece of Rome’s famous, ancient roots.

If you’re in search of a place that is a bit more serene, then a visit to the Vatican is a must (plus you can tick another country off your bucket list!).

St. Peter’s is also another amazing building with some truly beautiful art inside, as is the Sistine Chapel, which is literally right around the corner

The lines here are disheartening long, but the wait is so worth it, especially since you get to see the Swiss Guards prance around in their rather unique, albeit gaudy, uniforms.

It should also be illegal to leave Rome without sampling carbonara, a divine, local specialty that is best sampled at Da Danilo restaurant in the Esquillino neighborhood.

Stop by and get ready for pure, unadulterated, carbohydrate bliss.

Orsa Maggiore Hostel for Women Only (budget) – If you’re a solo female traveler, then finding a hostel where you actually feel comfortable staying can be a bit tricky. This is particularly true in Rome, where the majority of hostels are located near the Termini train station, which isn’t exactly the nicest area to be walking around alone, at night. So, what’s a girl to do? Try Orsa Maggiore Hostel instead, where dorm rooms start at just $35 per night! It’s a female-only hostel (no snorers; hurrah!) that sits in the lovely, uber-leafy, neighborhood of Trastevere (one of Rome’s nicest areas). Plus, they even have a beautiful, onsite garden for you to chill out in, and swap travel stories with like-minded travelers.

Hotel Pulitzer (mid-range) – This is the perfect place to stay if you want to start writing the next great, American novel (geddit?). And while this hotel is a bit far from Rome’s congested center, you can still easily access many of the city’s top attractions city through the use of a nearby metro station. Plus, as soon as you catch a glimpse of the hotel’s gorgeous outdoor pool, you’ll forget all about Rome and start planning a few lazy afternoons at the pool instead! Single rooms are also available, start at $95 per night, and provide you with a fantastic view of the Roman skyline.

***For more about Rome, check out my extensive Rome, 2-day itinerary! ***

2. Florence

Home of the Renaissance:

Some of humanity’s greatest works of art can actually be found right here in Florence.

A statue of a pig that will voraciously eat all of your money also may, or may not, be included amongst these iconic, works of art!

But either way:

One thing’s for certain, this city really does have it all, like the best wine tours in Florence .

History lovers of even the smallest measure should head straight for the famous Duomo , one of Italy’s biggest attractions, and gawk at the exquisite decor that adorns the entire exterior of the building.

For extra brownie points:

Ascend the church’s cumbersome staircase and explore the inside of the duomo itself (you could also climb the bell tower next door too if you’re feeling SUPER ambitious).

Meander on over to the river and walk over the Ponte Vecchio, a historic bridge that is surrounded by a wealth of ancient goldsmiths and jewelery makers, all of whom are only too happy for you spend all of your hard earned cash on not-so-essential souvenirs.

Lovers of all things beautiful (and I mean really, who isn’t?) should then head to the Accademia Gallery and soak up the immortal grandeur of Michelangelo’s most famous creation, the Statue of David.

And if your mind still isn’t blown up enough already:

Then stop by the Uffizi Gallery and check out the iconic works of Botticelli and Da Vinci, among countless others.

Apparently:

The Uffizi Gallery is actually famed for being one of the best art galleries in the world and is home to more people saying “wow!” than any other place on Earth.

Probably. That last bit I kind of made up.

Oh, and if you love the taste of food even a little bit, then you should definitely head south of the river, and grab a pizza from Gusta Pizza.

“What makes this pizza so different from all of the other pizza in the city?” You may rightly wonder.

If you’re one of the chosen few, you’ll get a mesmerizing, heart-shaped pie that is just too Instagrammable for words (at least it is until I swan dive, head first, into that delicious pile of cheesy goodness!).

Florence Comfort B&B (budget) – If you’re looking for a cozy AF, super charming B&B, then this is the place for you! Because Florence Comfort really lives up to its name, which is kind of surprising considering that rooms here cost just $40 per night. And included with the price of your room is a free sauna, as well as either a hydromassage shower or a spa bath (both of which sit inside your room). So, not only do you get to stay in an adorable B&B that is nicely hidden away from the city center but without being too far away, but you’ll also get thoroughly pampered too! Talk about a win-win!

Boutique Hotel Hugo (mid-range) – Not only is this super-fashionable hotel well-located, and all without being completely in the middle of it all (Do you really want people roaming around beneath your window at night? Yeah, I don’t think so!), but it’s also really close to the Accademia Gallery. Which is a MUST if you actually want to visit the statue of David without being mobbed by a crowd of selfie-stick wielding tourists! See, because of the hotel’s super awesome, central location, you can easily wake up early, have some breakfast, and still be the first one in line at the Gallery! Best of all, they offer single rooms at a reduced rate of $110 per night! Yes, my friends, we call this living the solo travel Italy dream!

***For more info about Florence, check out this 2 days in Florence itinerary !***

Although the never-ending crowds that clog up Venice’s notoriously narrow streets may leave you wondering how this city ever got a nickname like “The Most Serene”, there’s no denying that Venice really is one of the most beautiful cities in the world!

The crowds here are proof of that.

Sadly though:

Venice has become a victim of its own success, which has led to a series of strict rules that are designed to regulate travelers and limit crowds.

But don’t let this deter you!

Because while you may have to share St. Mark’s Square with tour groups aplenty (unless you get up at the crack of dawn), it’s still more than possible to enjoy a few moments of respite amidst the tour group induced chaos.

To find a brief moment of calm, wander down a quiet side street and get intentionally lost.

Because along the way:

You’ll encounter a beautiful maze of scenic passageways and tiny bridges that will take you over some of the most breathtaking canals in all of Venice.

Also take some time to marvel at the glorious palazzos along the Grand Canal, and treat yo’self to a gondola ride, or a more economical trip on the water bus, if you’re feelin’ just a tid bit frugal.

And since you’re here anyway:

You really can’t miss St. Mark’s Basilica , despite the crowds (You’ll also want to visit the Doge’s Palace while you’re here).

So, when you’re ready:

Venture inside, and be duly impressed by the copious amounts of gold and gorgeous, painted murals that you’ll find everywhere!

You can also pay a small fee and visit some of the famous horse statues here, many of which are originally from Constantinople!

Because seafood is kind of a big deal in Venice, be sure to get your fishy grove on at Ristorante Rio Novo, a restaurant that is known for creating some of the most spectacular fish dishes in the entire city!

And if you have a bit of extra time in Venice, you can also do a lovely day trip and visit Murano, Burano, and Torcello by Vaporetto .

Generator Venice (Budget) – In a city as fancy as Venice, finding a budget hotel room can prove rather difficult. However, the Generator Venice makes it easy since they give you everything you need, and all for just $32 per night! Located on an island just opposite of St Mark’s Square, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the ancient port here, and all without having to fight your way through gobs of tourists. And if you want to visit all of the city’s major attractions, not to worry because you’re just a short, 10-minute water bus ride across the channel. Mixed and female-only dorm rooms are also available here, as is a fantastic common room where you can relax and enjoy a few drinks at the end of the day!

Hotel Santo Stefano (Mid-range) – This well-appointed hotel has single rooms available for just $115 per night (Trust me, that’s insanely reasonable for Venice). In exchange, you’ll get a beautiful room in a centrally located hotel that was actually a 15th-century watchtower in its former life. Seriously, how cool is that? I mean, why just visit history, when you can actually stay in and become a part of history, too! It’s also just around the corner from St. Mark’s Square, making it super easy for you to get up early and grab those early-morning photographs of a stunningly quiet square!

***For more info on Venice, check out my post on how to see the best of Venice in JUST one day!***

Although Milan may not be as classically beautiful as places like Florence, Rome, and Venice, Milan more than makes up for its slightly industrial feel with its very own form of glamor – fashion! Plus, you can easily spend one day in Milan and spend the night at one of the best boutique hotels in Milan .

Yea my friends:

In case you weren’t aware, Milan is the fashion capital of the world.

If your wardrobe is in desperate need of a little love, then this is the place to go!

Because believe it or not:

All of the world’s most famous fashion houses (think Prada, Gucci, Versace, etc.), Italian or otherwise, have outposts here, in the city’s iconic fashion district.

It’s easy to spend an entire day on these insanely fashion conscious streets, totally distracted by the most beautiful and outrageous clothes that Italian designers can conjure up (Spoiler Alert: Things can get pretty wild).

If fashion really isn’t your thing, then you’re in luck because this city definitely has some distinctly non-fashion related charms!

The Duomo here is absolutely gorgeous, with it’s multitude of soaring spires.

The enchanting shopping gallery of Vittorio Emanuele II is basically right next door.

You can easily stop by and see the original branch of Prada while you admire the shopping arcade’s exquisite, classic architecture and stunning glass roof.

If you have time:

You can also see DaVinci’s one and only Last Supper , which is housed inside the Church of Santa Maria Delle Grazie.

You only get to spend about fifteen minutes inside, with this immortal painting (for preservation purposes) but it was probably one of the most stunning fifteen minutes of my life.

So yeah, totally worth the trip. FYI though:

Do book your tickets well in advance (like months in advance) since tickets sell out incredibly quickly due to limited visitation.

Wait, I almost forgot!

You also CAN’T visit Italy without sampling ALL the gelato.

After all that culture, be sure to get yourself to Gelateria della Musica, where you can stand in awe of the sheer number of flavors that are available to you!

Umm, buttered bread and jam gelato anyone? 

No, I swear, it’s waaay better than it sounds! Pinkie promise!

And if you extra time on your hands, you can always check out some of these amazing day trips from Milan after spending 24 hours in Milan .

Babila Hostel (Budget) – Want to save money on your accommodations, just so that you can blow your entire budget on designer clothes instead? If you’re emphatically nodding your head yes than Babila Hostel is the place for you since rooms here start at $55 per night! Located just around the corner from Milan’s famous fashion district, you’ll have iconic, flagship stores, like Prada and Burberry, within easy walking distance. But, the glamour definitely doesn’t stop there! Because believe it or not, this fabulous hostel also sits inside a gorgeous, former school (from 1898), making this one of the most stylish and attractive hostels in the entire city!

Hotel Capitol Milano (Mid-range) – What, feel like you’ve totally shopped yourself out? If so then Hotel Capitol is the ideal place for you to come back to in the evening and recuperate! Because either a spa bath or hydromassage shower await you and will take care of any aches and pains that you may have acquired while lifting all those uber-heavy designer bags. Plus, all of the fully soundproofed rooms here, which start at $200 per night, will help you to get a well-deserved, full  night’s rest before you’re up and at ’em again in the morning! This hotel is also conveniently located near various public transportation access points, allowing you to quickly and easily get into the heart of the city!

***For more info about Milan, check out my post on how to visit Milan in JUST twenty-four hours! ***

Located just south of Naples:

Pompeii is the site of one of history’s most tragic events.

In 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius violently erupted, immediately affecting the nearby towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Those residents who saw and understood the immediate danger they were in immediately evacuated their homes.

Many others stayed behind, resulting in a monumental number of deaths as residents were buried by copious amounts of ash and rock from the erupting volcano.

As a result:

Pompeii was basically wiped off the map, and was only later re-discovered, beneath a thick layer of solidified ash, in 1748.

Since then:

Continued excavations of the ancient town have completely reshaped the way we think about life in ancient Rome.

Because of this think layer of ash, many of the buildings in Pompeii survived more or less intact, including whole arenas, gymnasiums, manor houses, a brothel, and even some temples.

To add to the tragedy though:

A number of corpses were also encased in this thick layer of ash.

Voids in the ash were created by the disintegration of the victims’  bodies and  were later filled with plaster to help recreate the final positions of many of the town’s residents.

Today, you’ll find ash/plaster statues of former residents trying to shield their faces, a mother trying to protect her child, and even a dog tied up, writhing in pain.

It’s an unsettling, but important record of their lives, making Pompeii a fantastic addition to any solo trip to Italy.

If you do visit, be sure to pack plenty of water, a hat, and some comfy shoes since the combination of Italian sun and ancient Roman cobblestones can be pretty unforgiving!

Domus Annae B&B (Budget) – Located a mere 750 yards from the ancient ruins of Pompeii, this cozy little apartment house is the perfect place for you to relax after a long day of exploring (You budding Indiana Jones, you!). For just $42 per night, you’ll enjoy a private, beautifully decorated, spacious apartment, as well as a lovely, fresh breakfast, courtesy of the owner! Truly the ideal choice for anyone exploring Italy’s ancient past on a budget!

Hotel del Sole (Mid-range) – Not content with exploring the Roman ruins? Want to feel like an actual ancient Roman during your stay in Pompeii (minus the exploding volcanoes and excruciating deaths)? How about this gorgeously decorated hotel? Not only does this hotel sit directly opposite of the entrance to the ruins, but the rooms here are truly something to behold. Picture Romanesque frescoes all along the walls, authentic marble tile beneath your feet, and spacious, corner baths that you can you luxuriate in for just $60 per night!

Naples is a vacation hotspot waiting to happen and can be explored by enjoying some of the best walking tours in Naples .

A lot of people are still put off by the city’s reputation for violence and squalor.

Most visitors will encounter nothing but kind locals and awesome food since this is one of the best places to try some of Italy’s most delicious dishes!

Even though the city’s many charms tend to be a bit rough around the edges, there’s no denying that there is a fantastic amount of history to uncover here.

If you want to experience Naples more cultural side, be sure to visit the famous, Veiled Christ statue at Cappella San Severo church (Just be sure to book tickets WELL in advance since the line here makes the Great Wall of China look painfully short).

You can always stop by The Archaeological Museum, which houses many, original finds from Pompeii, removed here to guarantee their proper preservation, as well as some rather racy items that can be found in the Secret Cabinet.

We’re talking jars adorned with people doing obscene things to one another, as well as the occasional goat or two.

Yup, SCANDALOUS!

But, if ancient stuff really isn’t your thang, then head to the outskirts of town and enjoy the massive pile  of historic awesomeness that is the Capodimonte Museum.

It’s one of the biggest museums in Italy and even has a gorgeous palazzo building to boot!

You’ll struggle to find a more impressive museum, and certainly struggle to find one with artwork that is THIS beautiful!

Let’s be totally real for a minute here people. Because we all know that you’re really here for one thing and one thing only.. the pizza!

You simply can’t leave the city without sampling its most famous dish at Da Michele, a small, local pizzeria that is known for serving some of the very best pizza in town!

You can also head to nearby Pompeii during one of the best tours of Pompeii from Naples or try a magical day trip from Naples to the Amalfi Coast .

Hostel of the Sun (Budget) – The Hostel of the Sun is a local legend in Naples, which is why pretty much everyone has heard of it! And it’s easy to see why since this hostel is renowned for its bright atmosphere, friendly staff, excellent wifi, and cheap beds, which start at $33 per night. It’s also in a great location right near the port and is just a ten minute walk from the city centre. You could also head to the port itself and take a lovely day trip to either Sorrento or Capri!

Hotel Metro 900 (Mid-range) – This sleek, ultra-stylish hotel is done in soothing shades of blue-grey and black, making this the perfect place to recuperate after a long day spent out in the Neapolitan sun. Rooms here start at $70 per night and are luxuriously appointed with walk-in showers and marble floors. The location is also great too since this hotel is situated in the lovely neighborhood of Chiaia, one of Naples’ nicest areas. Therefore, you can easily take a walk along Naples’ famously gorgeous waterfront before retiring for the evening!

Italy’s other renowned destination for foodies is Bologna, which is famous for an insane number of Italian foodstuffs like Mortadella ham, Parma ham, balsamic vinegar, Parmesan cheese, and tortellini.

If any destination is worth visiting for the food alone, then Bologna would be it!

That’s not to say that Bologna doesn’t have anything else going for it because that would just be one, big fat lie.

And we hate those! 

Because this charming, Italian city is brimming over with museums, picturesque squares (check out the impressive public space of Piazza Maggiore), and scenic towers (Two of which have a noticeable lean. Yeah, clearly Pisa isn’t the only place in Italy with a leaning tower).

You could also spend many a happy hour here browsing through the market of La Piazzola, which features over 400 vendors who sell pretty much any food product that you can think of.

So yes, let’s stock up on ALL the food!

It also goes without saying that you’re spoiled for choice on where to eat in Bologna.

There are so many fantastic eateries to choose from that picking a single restaurant will probably leave you clutching your head in agony as imaginary plates of pasta swirl through your head.

So, let me take the strain off of you! 

Because Trattoria di Via Serra is where it’s at, and a total must-visit, thanks to its locally renowned, slow-cooked meals.

You really can’t go wrong with anything that you order here!

We_Bologna (Budget) – Who doesn’t love a good underscore? Am I right?? Okay, apart from the quirky name, this hostel also offers its guests an incredible location, right near the central train station, and supreme flexibility! See, the latter comes in the form of your accommodation which starts at $42 per night and can be either a bed in a mixed dorm or a private room (Oh, la, la. FANCY!).

Casa Bertagni (Mid-range) – This quirky hotel is perfect for anyone who wants to show off their cool digs on Instagram. Because there’s not a corner of this hotel that isn’t covered in interesting decor! From the cobalt blue, spiral staircase, to the wobbly-looking lamps, this is the place to stay if you feel like being a total, Instagram baller. Thankfully though, the rooms themselves, which start at $150 per night, are a little less busy, allowing you to get a much needed, restful night’s sleep. The hotel itself is also situated in one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in the city and the perfect location for any aspiring photographers out there!

8. Lake Como

Nestled deep within the far north of the country:

Lake Como is known for being one of Italy’s most scenic regions.

A reputation that is well-deserved since you’ll find a crystal blue lake, an abundance of beautiful greenery, a wealth of charming villas, and a view of the Alps, off in the distance.

How can you not fall in love with a place like this?

It’s beauty has been captured by so many artists that you’ll probably start to feel like you’ve already been here.

But, let’s be real:

Nothing quite compares to seeing this amazing place with your own eyes!

There are also plenty of fun things to do here, like visit the stunning cathedral at Como.

It took over three centuries to build this religious structure, (I mean, come  on , ye olde builders! Get it together!) but that just means that it’s an intriguing mishmash of architectural styles, making it one of the most unique sights in Italy!

You can also visit the insanely charming town of Varenna, or take a scenic boat ride to Bellagio, one of Lake Como’s most famous towns and home to a variety of high-end shops where you can continue that EPIC shopping spree that you started in Milan!

Whilst in Bellagio:

Also, be sure to pop by the restaurant of Alle Darsene Di Loppia since a meal served in their exquisite garden is a total must!

Ostello Bello Lake Como (Budget) – This is one of those hostels that will have you booking as long a stay as humanly possible! That’s because this amazing place is situated right next door to the lake, making it the perfect place from which to explore the entire area. The beds here are also outstandingly comfortable, start at $52 per night, and are perfectly complemented by a lovely, communal terrace where residents gather in the evening. You can also try your hand at cooking and enjoy some of their fantastic, cooking classes during the day!

Hotel Centrale Bellagio (Mid-range) – Want to be as close to Lake Como as you can get, but all without getting your feet wet? Want to sit amidst glorious surroundings, breathing in the ethereal, flower-scented, mountain air? Want to have a view of said mountains from your very own, private outside dining area? Well, you can have all of this, and more, at the Hotel Centrale! Rooms here start at just $140 per night and all sit a mere 450 yards from the ferry to Varenna and Griante. Now that’s what I call a central location!

9. The Amalfi Coast

Next on our list of contenders for “The Prettiest Place in Italy” is the Amalfi Coast.

What most people don’t know about the Amalfi Coast is the fact that it’s actually comprised of three separate towns – Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello – all of which make a great home base from which to enjoy the best wine tours in the Amalfi Coast .

And before you even ask:

Yes, they’re all equally gorgeous, but in slightly different ways.

Positano is the region’s glamour puss; a town that serenely cascades down a picturesque mountainside, gathering along a pristine beach that is filled with private yachts and jet skis.

Not surprisingly:

This town is a popular haunt among fashionistas, celebrities, and sun worshippers alike.

Which makes sense since this town is ridiculously beautiful, especially as the sun sets beneath the horizon!

On the other hand:

Amalfi is a bit more stately and dignified, though still imbued with an ethereal, small-town charm that always has the crowds coming back for more (People also MAY or may not come back for the town’s beautiful selection of regional ceramics).

It was also once a major trading center in Italy..until an earthquake in the middle ages caused about half of the city to slip beneath the sea.

Fortunately though, the town’s cathedral survived intact and still stands today; a stunning building with an almost hypnotic frontage that protects a number of holy relics within.

And then there’s Ravello, perched high atop the region’s many hills. 

It’s a tiny town, but worth visiting for the exquisite, highly photogenic ,views from Villa Rufolo alone.

Imagine nothing but blue skies that stretch endlessly into the stunning seas below.

For the area’s best eats though:

You’ll want to head back to Positano and amble on over to Chez Black for a beautiful mixture of delicious food and ample celebrity spotting opportunities.

Via Col Vento – Ravello (Budget) – Getting budget accommodations and planning a budget for the Amalfi Coast is difficult, to say the least. I mean, this is the most exclusive region in Italy and as a result, high accommodation costs ensue. But, there is one notable exception to this general rule, and that is Via Col Vento! Seriously, grab this bargain of a hotel with both hands because this place abounds with the mesmerizing views that first made Ravello famous. Which makes sense since this enchanting place is just 450 yards from Villa Rufolo itself. It also sits right next door to a bus stop where you can board the bus and explore the enchanting, nearby town of Amalfi!

Hotel Villa Felice Relais – Amalfi (mid-range) – Amalfi is the perfect place to stay along the Amalfi Coast since it’s cheaper than Positano and located smack dab in the middle of Ravello and Positano. And of all the places to stay in Amafli, Villa Felice Relais is one of the best. Not only are the rooms here luxuriously appointed, with stunning views of the coast, but prices start at just $150 per night, which is pretty reasonable considering the sheer grandeur of your beautiful surroundings.

10. Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre

If you’ve ever seen a calendar or screen saver that features a photo of Italy, then you’ve probably seen Cinque Terre.

Come on, you know the one I’m talking about.

It features a small cluster of brightly colored houses that surround a beautiful blue harbor with several little boats bobbing around inside.

Know the one I’m taking about? 

Good, because that’s Cinque Terre.

Located not far from Florence:

The five tiny villages that make up Cinque Terre were definitely not designed for mass tourism.

As this area becomes increasingly popular among tourists, the streets become infinitely more crowded, resulting in serious problems for anyone who wants to drive, or walk, around the area.

In spite of the intense crowds, this place is still totally worth a visit, especially at sundown, when the coastal views here are at their most majestic (The hordes of day trippers have also departed by then so you’ll be able to experience some relative calm.).

That’s also why an overnight stay is definitely preferable, especially since you’ll be able to see real, local people emerge from their homes and enjoy a nice, evening walk.

And If you do decide to spend the night:

Be sure to grab dinner at A Pie’ De Ma’ in the village of Riomaggiore since this is the perfect place to sit outside, devour some delicious food, and watch the sun set.

Hotel La Villa Degli Argentieri (Budget) – Staying in the heart of Cinque Terre National Park is a rare treat indeed. But Hotel La Villa Degli Argentieri makes it even better with super friendly staff and rooms that start at $120 per night. Plus, each room here comes with a hydromassage shower and a terrace where you can watch the sun set over the sea.

Hotel Souvenir (Mid-range) – Guys, Hotel Souvenir is a thin slice of heaven that sits smack dab in the middle of Cinque Terre. It’s a bright, colorful hotel that showcases tropical flowers EVERYWHERE. It’s also just a five-minute walk from an insanely gorgeous beach where you can relax and order a delightfully fruity drink with an umbrella in it. The rooms here are also clean and bright, with a beautiful, Mediterranean design aesthetic that will leave you googling “home decor”, so that you can try and recreate the hotel’s chic design when you get home. You won’t however, be able to recreate the fabulous breakfasts, which are filled with a plethora of sweet and savory items alike.

Sicily is a gorgeous island in the Mediterranean, with a dazzling array of diverse landscapes and cultural treasures that are just waiting to be discovered. Which is why you could easily plan a beautiful 5 days in northwest Sicily  and discover exactly what to eat in Palermo along the way.

And while the island’s biggest city, Palermo, still features some less than stellar areas, the city itself has been undergoing a dramatic, systematic regeneration that is slowly transforming this metropolis into a cultural capital of the island, and maybe even the country.

Using funds confiscated from the Mafia:

Palermo’s marina has been transformed into a gorgeous place, filled with enchanting gardens and lush green spaces that are only eclipsed In beauty by Palermo’s iconic, Cappella Palatina chapel.

If the city really isn’t your thing, then there are still plenty of other, super stunning places for you to explore.

Taormina stands out among them as a postcard-perfect town that is filled with a series of quaint, winding streets that all sit nestled along the coast, quietly overlooking the deep blue sea.

There’s even a stupendous, Roman/Greek amphitheater here that is a great place for all the cultural afficionados out there to explore.

Catania is yet another amazing, ancient port city that is the perfect home base for anyone looking to explore the extremely active volcano of Mt Etna.

If you’d rather not experience a very LIVE version of Pompeii, then you can always head to the sun-kissed city of Syracuse instead.

Because trust me:

Sicily has got A LOOOT going on.

You’ll have ZERO problem finding many somethings to fall in love with, including the excellent food!

Because honestly, who doesn’t love a good meal? 

Okay maybe not my pants when I’m sporting a massive food baby but that’s a tale for another post.

Because tor one of the best meals on the island:

It is imperative that you head straight back to Taormina (No passing go and no collecting $200. Okay???), and reserve a table at Al Saraceno, with its super snazzy outdoor terrace, amazing panoramic views, and wealth of tasty fish dishes.

Your tastebuds will most definitely thank me for that rec right there.

Hotel Columbia – Palermo (Budget) – Want to experience the fabled beauty of Sicily, but with the budget of a broke college kid? No problem! Because Hotel Columbia is a gorgeous place, located down a quiet side street, that sits next door to most of the city’s main attractions. This place is also notorious for having amazingly friendly staff and clean rooms that start at just $54 per night!

Panoramic Hotel – Taormina (Mid-range) – As soon as you arrive at this gorgeous hotel, you’ll immediately understand how it got its name. Just stand out by the poolside terrace and you’ll get a stunning view of the sea, and the town of Taormina below! This enchanting hotel is also just 20 yards away from one of Sicily’s most beautiful beaches and gives you easy access to a cable car that will take you into town. However, you could always just spend the day relaxing in your room (starting at $160 per night), enjoying a private balcony that overlooks the area’s exquisite coastline.

A 10 Day, Italy Solo Travel Itinerary

Milan (2 nights).

Put your most fashionable foot forward because we’re about to start this very Italian vacay in Milan!

Spend two glorious days exploring the city’s glorious cathedral, one of Italy’s finest, and sauntering along the city’s most fashionable streets.

While you’re here:

Don’t forget to visit Davinci’s immortal, Last Supper and explore the ethereal beauty of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade!

Venice (2 nights)

Take the train from Milan to Venice, the Most Serene Republic, and one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

While in the city:

A voyage along the canals is a must, as is the Basilica di San Marco, the Palazzo Ducale, and the Gallerie Dell’Accademia.

Do have plenty of cash on hand since that gondola ride is gonna cost ya!

And if you have time:

Do try and take a day trip out to Burano island, to see the charming, brightly-painted houses there.

Florence (2 nights)

The birthplace of the Renaissance has a timeless beauty that will make you feel as though you’ve been transported back in time.

During your two days here:

Gaze upon the masterpieces in the Uffizi Gallery, or the equally impressive architectural grandeur of the Ponte Vecchio and the stunning Duomo.

Also, stop by the Museo di Sam Marco and savor some traditional, Florentine cuisine at the Mercato Centrale!

Rome (2 nights)

The Eternal City is fiercely proud of its ancient history, and rightly so since it’s home to some of the most iconic Roman ruins in the entire world.

The Colosseum and the Pantheon are a total must, as is the sprawling Forum. St. Peter’s Cathedral, and the Vatican , at least for all my history-loving homies out there!

I’d also get up super early (like the crack of dawn early) and visit the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps since no people here = infinitely BETTER photo ops!

Naples (2 nights)

You’ll come away from Naples with a real love for this amazingly down-to-earth city.

Because aside from being the perfect spot for an amazing day trip to the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, Naples also serves as a fantastic gateway to both Sorrento and Capri.

Naples has its own set of historic charms, some of which can be found in places like Museo Archeologico Nazionale, Museo di Capodimonte, and Cappella Sansevero chapel.

And don’t even get me started on the pizza, which is some of the best in the word and an absolute must-try while you’re in the area (Yeah, you’re kind fo obligated to eat your weight in pizza while you’re here).

So there you have it ladies, and possibly a few gents, my ridiculously long guide on the best way to travel Italy solo.

Because between my italy solo travel itinerary, my tips on how to stay safe while traveling to italy alone, and my detailed list of all of the best places to visit italy, i’m sure you’ve found at least one mildly interesting something in this behemoth post about all things solo travel italy., so, if you found this post even a tidbit helpful (and i pray to the gods and the stars in the heavens above that you do), then pin this post now and read it again later, come on, all the cool kids are doing it….

Friday 22nd of November 2019

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Solo travel to Italy: tips & tricks from our solo traveler community

Ahhh, Italy . The land of la dolce vita, where the pasta is a little bit tastier and the views of the Colosseum are dreamier than you ever imagined. We know Italy is a bucket list destination for many people, including our solo travelers. That’s why we asked them to share their advice for where to go, what to eat, and how to spend your free time while traveling to Italy as a solo traveler on a guided tour .

Take a solo trip to Italy

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10 Best Places in Italy for Solo Travel

Italy is not just of the best places for solo travellers in Europe – it’s one of the best countries to visit, period. It’s a feast of art, history, glorious landscapes, and incredible food.

There are beaches, mountains, islands, and gelato. Always gelato. Plus Truffles, hilltop towns, palaces, medieval intrigue and baroque sculptures.

Hostels used to be a bit dated but have thankfully improved in recent years, with much more variety. However prices have increased too, and summer in the main cities means prices upwards of €30 a night just for a dorm bed.

The cheaper beds tend to be located outside the city in converted farms and on campsites but these can be an experience in themselves – plus you’re more likely to find a pool.

The emergence of Airbnb means there is at least an alternative to expensive hostels though. And to keep costs down you can also look at accommodation in surrounding towns which are usually well connected by public transport – looking at nearby Padova instead of pricey Venice, for example.

Ah, the Eternal City. It’s the unmissable capital of modern Italy as well as of Ancient Rome. And today Rome is a historian’s playground, surrounded by layers. 

Rome has the Colosseum, the Vatican, the Imperial Forum and Palatine Hill, the Pantheon. It’s been at the heart of power in Western Civilisation for millennia. Ancient ruins spill into baroque streets, grand cathedrals sit next to tiny cafes, churches with ancient excavations underneath.

And that’s before you even think about the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountains, the Piazzas Navona and Campo di Fiori, and the Villa Borghese for those Roman Holiday-inspired photo ops.

Rome is chic and splendid with excellent shopping and dining options. Head to Trastevere for a laid-back slice of la dolce vita , with restaurants spilling out into pretty cobbled streets.

Outside the centre of the city are the vantage points from its hills, plus vast underground catacombs and old Roman roads providing opportunities for walks and cycling.

There are some great hostels for solo travellers in Rome. Party animals will want to check in to The Yellow – the best hostel in Rome for socialising, with its cheap bar and frequent parties. It even has an on-site tattooist.

If you prefer quiet and chill then the Beehive Hostel has long been regarded as the best hostel in Rome with its homemade vegetarian courtyard breakfasts and variety of room types. Generator Rome is a decent alternative – both are located in the Termini area of town which is near the main train station.

No trip to Italy is complete without a visit to Venice. This unique floating city comprises 118 islands separated by canals and some of the most beautiful architecture you’ll ever seen. Venice has to be seen to be believed.

Originally it was a lagoon inhabited by fisherman, then it became a place of refuge for Roman citizens fleeing barbarian invasions. Eventually, it became the centre of a great trading empire.

The Rialto Bridge, the Grand Canal, the Doge’s Palace, and St. Mark’s Square form the epicentre of touristic Venice. And the pretty multicoloured houses on the island of Burano have become an internet sensation. But try to get out to the less touristy corners as well, Venice is a city that rewards exploration. Don’t forget to wear some comfortable walking shoes, and be prepared to get lost.

Vaporetti (water buses) make a cheaper alternative to the notoriously expensive gondola rides.

Venice has historically been a difficult place to find a good hostel, but the arrival of flashpacker-brand Generator Venice kick started the design hostel trend here. It’s not on the main island so will require a ferry pass, but has all mod cons and comfortable beds.

Other good hostels include an outpost of Wombats , and hipster vibes at Combo Venezia which is located in a converted monastery.

Florence (or Firenze ) is the birthplace of the Renaissance and during that time it was the most important city in Europe, leaving us an incredible cultural legacy. It’s the gateway to Tuscany and home of David and the Duomo. Gateway to Tuscany. 

But Florence is also the home of money, as we know it. Of opera, the Medici family, and the Uffizi gallery (amongst others). There are more museums in Florence than you could see in a month, and enough nightlife to keep you entertained for a few days. It’s no wonder Florence is one of the most popular cities in Italy!

Most hostels in Florence are looking a bit dated, but the boutique art nouveau B&B Mosi Firenze also has dorms and social amenities as well as beautiful decor.

PLUS Hostel is larger and has two pools (one indoor one outdoor), female dorms, and a rooftop terrace – it’s probably the best option for socialising.

For a taste of the good life, head outside the city to the Ostello del Bigallo . Set in a gorgeous medieval monastic building, it’s a magical place with a real communal spirit. Expect pasta nights and epic sunrises.

NAPLES AND THE AMALFI COAST

Naples is no stranger to tourism thanks to its proximity to Mount Vesuvius, the volcano-devastated archaeological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum, and the stunning Amalfi Coast with its famously winding coastal roads. Plus the islands of Capri and Ischia are a short boat trip away. But Naples itself is only just coming into the spotlight.

Gritty and vibrant, Naples is known mostly for its crazy traffic, strong dialect, mafia associations, and tourist scams. But did you know that Naples has the highest number of churches in the world (448), or the biggest historic centre in the world (which is now UNESCO World Heritage-listed)? 

Its looming buildings, many in a state of dilapidated, have a very different feel to other Italian cities – catch it now before the gentrification.

Don’t miss the kitsch of Christmas Alley, or the fabulous wine bars and cobbled streets of Chaia in the evenings. And, of course, it’s the home of pizza.

La Controra and NeapolitanTrips are the pick of the hostels in the city.

If Naples doesn’t sound like your scene, it’s only a short journey to the nearby Amalfi Coast with its swoon-worthy coastal scenery and pretty villages beloved by Instagrammers.

Proper hostels are sparse in the Amalfi Coast villages, but Seven Hostel is located in nearby Sant’Agnello (close to Sorrento) and has panoramic views from its rooftop sun terrace.

Ok, so it’s cheating a little bit to have the whole of Sicily as one entry, but it’s the perfect place to end a solo trip to Italy because everything here is Italy- max .

It’s hard to pick just one place and there are a few excellent hostels spread across the island, 

The west of the island has Palermo – which is chock full of architectural treasures and incredible street food, the beautiful coastal town of Cefalu. Casa di Amici Hostel in Palermo is friendly base, or if you’re in need of a beach vacay there is Timbuktu Hostel at the popular beach town of San Vito Lo Capo (which has one of the best sandy beaches in all of Italy, as well as amazing seafood couscous).

Prefer to go east? You’ll be within reach of the main beach resort towns Taormina and Giardini Naxos, plus the UNESCO-listed late baroque towns Noto, Modica, and Ragusa.

The capital of the east is fascinating Catania, standout hostels include Ostello degli Elefanti with its ornate ceiling and The Yard which boasts industrial chic decor.

Alternatively, you could stay in Syracuse with its polished baroque beauty – LOL Hostel brings the boutique hostel vibes.

CINQUE TERRE

Italy’s beautiful Cinque Terre has really shot to fame in the past decade. The name refers to five colourful coastal villages linked by hiking trails, in a National Park. 

The villages are: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.

The Cinque Terre is halfway between Genoa and Pisa, and to the south of Milan. This part of Italy is called Liguria and is the home of pesto – and trust me, you’ll want to eat as much of it as you can here.

Parts of the trail are sometimes closed due for safety reasons or due to work on the tracks so it’s not always possible (or advisable) to do the walk in one day. Plus there are lots of smaller less busy hiking trails behind the villages. I recommend at least 2 days for this paradise.

These days there are some good hostels in the area, although the better ones are outside the villages – 5 Terre Backpackers and Ostello Tramonti.

If you’d rather be in the villages have a look at the more traditional Ostello Corniglia or Mar-Mar in Riomaggiore. 

Bologna is a historic university city in the region of Emilia-Romagna that has really risen to prominence recently on account of its foodie delights. It has become known as Italy’s top culinary destination thanks to the quality of its produce – in particular, its cured meats such as bologna, prosciutto and mortadella.

There’s also bolognese, stuffed pasta, and visits to nearby producers of world-class parmesan (DOP Parmigiano Reggiano), balsamic vinegar (DOP Balsamic di Modena), and local wines Lambrusco, Pignoletto and Barera.

But Bologna is not just about food – it’s also home to the oldest university in the Western world, and a long-standing tradition of supercar production. Ferrari, Lamborghini and Ducati all have museums in the area. It has one of the best-preserved medieval town centres and is known for its beauty, elegant piazzas, towers and porticos in shades of red and burnt orange. It has a modern – yet resolutely Italian – vibe.

The standout hostels in Bologna are Dopa Hostel which is downtown and has a cosy social vibe, and We_Bologna near the station which is spacious and has bicycle rental available.

The grand and modern city of Milan makes a refreshing change if you’ve been on the history track for a while. Shopaholics and soccer fans will be happy here – Milan is Italy’s capital of modern pursuits fashion and football, as well as the older passions of opera.

The grand gothic Duomo, famous opera house La Scala, football stadium San Siro, and Leonardo’s Last Supper are the major attractions.

It’s the commercial capital of the north and one of the biggest cities in the country, with a more European feel than many Italian cities. 

As one of the main cities in the north, it’s also well connected by train – the Italian Lakes are nearby, as is the hilltop city of Bergamo, and it’s a short cross-country ride to Bologna, Verona, and Venice.

Milan really comes into its own in the runup to Christmas, with extensive lights and the best hot chocolate you’ll ever taste.

Ostello Bello has the best (dorm) beds in town. It comes highly rated and has excellent facilities (including free breakfast and apperitivo).

Other hostels worth checking out are Ostello Bello Grande ,  Madama Hostel & Bistrot , and Combo Milano .

For a taste of Italy without the tourist crowds consider Perugia, a beautiful historic city and capital of Umbria – a region less crowded than Tuscany but with the similar attractions of wine, glorious scenery and honey-hued medieval hill towns.

And Perugia itself must be one of the most underrated destinations in Italy. At its centre is a walled old town known for its palazzo and fountains, endless steps, Gothic cathedral, and Renaissance art. It also has a maze of underground streets that once formed a 16th-century fortress. And a Roman aqueduct. And an ancient Etruscan arch. 

Plus there are truffles. Jazz. Chocolate. And there are day trips to nearby Assisi and vineyards.

 Not just a tourist ghetto, the university attracts many foreign students giving it a cosmopolitan vibe. It’s a city made for walking and it’s halfway between Florence and Rome – 2 and a half hours to either on the train. Perugia has an international airport that is served by budget European airlines so makes a handy entry or exit point into the area.

There are two excellent hostel options –  Little Italy Hostel is a modern design hostel inside a converted 11th-century church.

And outside the city, you’ll find Perugia Farmhouse Backpackers is a long-standing hostel which is located in a 200-year old farmhouse and it has a pool – rerfect for hot summer days.

The hilltop town of Matera in the southern region of Basilicata is one of the most unique and compelling destinations in Italy.

This fascinating town is home to the Sassi, a unique form of housing built into soft rock on the slope of a ravine. Some of the Sassi date as far back as 7000BC, making Matera one of the oldest continually inhabited sites in Europe (check). But that habitation came to an end in the 1950s when sanitation was poor and disease was rife – the population forcibly removed to more modern accommodation.

But Matera rose from the dead in the 1980s when people started to move back to the cave dwellings – first hippies and artists, then widespread renovations. Now it’s a popular spot for creatives and is enjoying a tourism boom. It’s a European City of Culture for 2019, and has been used as a filming location for major Hollywood blockbusters (most famously The Passion of the Christ) – it often stands in for ancient Jerusalem.

Matera has certainly come a long way in the last 70 years.

Lay your head at The Rock Hostel in a restored farmhouse built into the rock, or check out the beautiful new Sassi Hostel has cave-hewn rooms.

How to Visit the Cinque Terre on a Budget

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10 Best Places for Solo Travel in Turkey

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10 Best Places for Solo Travel in Portugal

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Image credits:

Amalfi Coast: Oleg Voronische / Shutterstock

Rome: © ansmp / Shutterstock

Venice: © muratart / Shutterstock

Florence: © Olga Gavrilova

Naples: © SC / Adobe Stock

Sicily: © lapas77 / Adobe Stock

Cinque Terre: © santosha57 / Adobe Stock

Bologna: © RossHelen / Shutterstock

Milan: © Anton_Ivanov / Shutterstock

Perugia: © OlgaMerolla / Shutterstock

Matera: © rudi1976 / Adobe Stock

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• Solo Travel Italy: An Enthralling Journey for the Independent Explorer

Home » Solo Travel Italy: An Enthralling Journey for the Independent Explorer

Considering a solo trip to Italy? This concise guide is crafted for solo travelers eager to navigate the charming Italian cities and landscapes autonomously.

Italy, a safe and culturally rich destination, offers an array of travel experiences, from the Renaissance art of Florence to the historic canals of Venice.

Solo travel in Italy allows you to indulge in delicious food, join a cooking class, or partake in free walking tours through cobbled streets and vibrant city centers.

Solo female travelers will find Italy particularly welcoming, with ample opportunities to explore the romantic city of Rome, the floating city of Venice with its Grand Canal, and each UNESCO World Heritage site scattered throughout the country.

Key destinations include the Amalfi Coast’s stunning vistas, the bustling city center of Milan, and the serene Lake Como in the north.

Whether you’re looking to speak Italian with locals, take a food tour in the south, or enjoy solo dining in a quaint hilltop town, Italy solo travel caters to all.

Key Takeaways

• Italy offers a safe and accessible destination for solo travelers, abundant in culture, history, and diverse landscapes, with easy public transportation and a range of budget-friendly accommodations.
• Solo explorers can immerse in Italy’s rich tapestry by visiting must-see cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, as well as embarking on off-the-beaten-path adventures in less crowded regions for an authentic experience.
• Practical tips for solo travelers in Italy include leveraging the efficient public transport, savvy dining and accommodation choices, engaging with local culture and festivities, and being mindful of safety and budgeting to enrich the solo travel experience.

Why Italy is a Dream Destination for Your Solo Trip?

Italy stands out as a haven for both male and solo female travelers, touting a commendable safety record and a public transportation network that’s nothing short of stellar.

Solo travel in Italy is a buffet of choices: whether you’re captivated by rugged mountain trails or the sun-soaked Amalfi Coast, bustling metropolitan vibes of major Italian cities or the quaint solitude of a hilltop town.

From the historic allure of Rome’s cobbled streets to the serene vineyards dotting Tuscany’s hills, Italy’s embrace is as warm as its sun-kissed landscapes.

Let’s discover the list with some of the best destinations to discover Italy as a solo traveler.

Crafting Your Solo Adventure: Top Travel Destinations in Italy

Italy is a beautiful country filled with diverse and captivating cities and regions, each offering its own distinct character.

For those traveling solo in Italy, there are many must-visit destinations to explore.

From northern to southern Italy, let’s start our virtual journey with the city that gave its name to one of the greatest empires in history.

Rome: The Eternal City Awaits

Rome, known as the Eternal City, is a popular destination for solo travelers seeking iconic sights like the Colosseum and Vatican City.

The cobblestone streets offer a glimpse into its rich history with opportunities to discover ancient ruins and admire Renaissance art amidst bustling street life.

Throwing coins in the Trevi Fountain and marveling at St. Peter’s Basilica are just some of the many experiences that Rome has to offer for those exploring on their own.

With endless possibilities, this city will surely captivate any solo adventurer looking for an unforgettable journey through time.

Venice: Exploring the City of Canals

Solo travelers will find that sailing through the canals of Venice, including the iconic Grand Canal, is an unparalleled experience.

The city’s unique landscape characterized by its waterways and architectural beauty makes it a perfect destination for those traveling alone.

While exploring this charming city on your own, you have the freedom to set your own pace and discover hidden alleyways as well as visit artisan shops without any rush.

As a solo traveler in Venice, be sure not to miss out on visiting Cicchetti bars for dining alone. These bars offer small bites paired with local wines where you can hop from one bar to another at your leisure while enjoying tranquil canal views away from tourist crowds.

Florence: A Renaissance Wonderland

For those with a love for art and history, Florence is an unmissable destination on your solo travel Italy itinerary.

This city boasts a wealth of Renaissance masterpieces, including famous sites like the Uffizi Gallery and the Duomo.

What makes Florence particularly great for solo travelers is its compact city center, which can be easily explored on foot, allowing you to wander through charming historic streets and stumble upon unique artisan shops along the way.

As a solo female traveler, you’ll find the atmosphere especially welcoming, with plenty of opportunities to join cooking classes or free walking tours, enriching your solo Italy trip with new skills and knowledge.

Whether you’re looking to speak Italian with locals over a delicious food tour or simply soak in the rich history and vibrant city life, Florence solo travel is a rewarding experience that caters to history lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Milan: Fashion and Culture Combined

For those with a love for fashion and design, Milan is the ultimate destination.

As a powerhouse of Italian style and innovation, it is an ideal city to visit for solo travelers looking to shop and immerse themselves in cultural events.

Beyond the allure of haute couture and showrooms, Milan offers a rich tapestry of history and art, encapsulating the spirit of northern Italy.

Be sure not to miss out on iconic sights like the Duomo di Milano, an architectural marvel, and Leonardo da Vinci’s famous masterpiece “The Last Supper,” displayed at Santa Maria delle Grazie convent.

Solo travel Italy enthusiasts will find Milan’s city center vibrant and accommodating, with the central train station providing easy access to other popular solo travel destinations.

Whether you’re on your first solo trip or a seasoned solo traveller, Milan serves as a great destination for those who wish to speak Italian with locals, enjoy delicious food, and explore the rich history of one of the best Italian cities.

Naples: A City of Rich History and Vibrant Life

Naples, with its pulsating ambiance and profound cultural heritage, stands as an excellent choice for those embarking on a solo trip to Italy.

Solo travelers will find a treasure trove of activities to immerse themselves in, such as engaging in a cooking class to master the art of Italian cuisine or joining a food tour to savor the delicious food Naples is famed for.

Additionally, they can dive into the city’s ancient history by exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site of the historic center, Spaccanapoli.

For solo female travelers seeking a blend of adventure and culture, Naples offers a dynamic environment to travel solo and safely.

The city’s proximity to the Mediterranean Sea allows for spontaneous day trips to the picturesque Amalfi Coast or the storied ruins of Pompeii.

Those with a penchant for hiking can venture up the slopes of Mount Vesuvius, where panoramic views reward the intrepid solo traveller.

Naples also serves as a gateway to other popular solo travel destinations within southern Italy, making it a great destination for those looking to speak Italian with locals, absorb the vibrant city life, and experience the rich tapestry of Italian cities all within a few days’ journey.

Catania: Gateway to Sicilian Wonders

If you have a desire to delve into the heart of Sicily, Catania is the perfect starting point for any solo traveler.

This bustling urban center is steeped in a diverse cultural heritage, with its distinctive Baroque buildings and delectable traditional dishes that epitomize the rich Italian food culture.

Solo travel Italy enthusiasts will find Catania to be a great destination to use as a home base while venturing out on day trips to experience the grandeur of Mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe, or to explore the ancient rich history that the city holds.

Whether you’re interested in joining a cooking class to learn the secrets of Sicilian cuisine, or you’re eager to speak Italian with the friendly locals at the vibrant city center, Catania offers a wealth of opportunities for solo travelers to immerse themselves in the authentic Italian experience.

As a gateway to the eastern part of the island, Catania also allows for easy access to other popular solo travel destinations in southern Italy, making it an ideal spot for those looking to enrich their solo Italy trip with adventure, culture, and the pursuit of the delicious food for which Italy is renowned.

Palermo: Discovering Sicily’s Capital

Palermo, a solo travel Italy gem, boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture.

This vibrant city is a haven for solo travelers, especially solo female travelers, who can safely explore its cobbled streets and historic sites.

The city’s architecture, a blend of Arab-Norman influences, stands as a testament to its past as a cultural crossroads.

Solo travelers can indulge in delicious food at local markets, take part in a cooking class to learn about Sicilian cuisine, or embark on a food tour to discover why Italian food is celebrated globally.

Palermo is also an ideal base for day trips to UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the stunning Amalfi Coast, or to engage with the local culture and perhaps even speak Italian with friendly residents.

As a top travel destination in Italy, Palermo offers a unique experience for those touring Italy solo, from its historical city center to the nearby serene Mediterranean Sea. It’s a great destination that encapsulates the essence of a solo Italy trip.

Cagliari: Sardinia’s Hidden Gem

Delve into the heart of the Mediterranean on a solo Italy trip and discover Cagliari, Sardinia’s historic capital.

This charming city is a treasure trove for solo travelers, offering a unique blend of medieval architecture, breathtaking coastal landscapes, and a vibrant cultural scene.

It’s an ideal spot for solo travelers looking to venture off the beaten path and immerse themselves in an authentic Italian experience.

From wandering the ancient streets to relaxing on pristine beaches, Cagliari allows you to savor the delicious food of southern Italy, speak Italian with friendly locals, and explore a great destination rich in history.

Whether you’re embarking on your first solo trip or you’re a seasoned solo traveller, Cagliari is a perfect choice for those seeking a mix of adventure, culture, and the serene beauty of the Mediterranean—all while enjoying the independence that solo travel in Italy offers.

Amalfi Coast: Coastal Beauty Unveiled

The Amalfi Coast is a destination that cannot be missed, with its stunning scenery and delightful villages.

Driving along the coast provides awe-inspiring sights, while exploring towns like Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi offers diverse experiences including delicious local cuisine and significant historical sites.

A solo trip here means winding through cliffside roads with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, perfect for those who enjoy the thrill of discovery on their own.

Solo female travelers will find the Amalfi Coast particularly enchanting, with its array of boutique shops, cozy cafes, and opportunities to join a cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Italian food.

The region’s rich history is palpable, with UNESCO World Heritage sites like the opulent villas that dot the landscape, showcasing the luxurious life of ancient Rome.

Whether you’re looking to travel Italy solo, embark on a day trip from a major city, or immerse yourself in the Renaissance art and culture of southern Italy, the Amalfi Coast is a great destination that checks all the boxes for an unforgettable solo Italy trip.

Cinque Terre: Discovering the Five Gems

For solo travelers seeking an active coastal adventure and wine-tasting experience, the vibrant villages of Cinque Terre along the Italian Riviera are a perfect destination.

Comprised of five picturesque towns – Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore – each one offers its own unique allure and opportunities for discovery.

With scenic hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and local wineries to indulge in along the way, Cinque Terre is an ideal choice for independent explorers looking for a unique travel experience.

The interconnected footpaths between these hilltop towns not only provide an invigorating way to travel solo but also offer chances to meet other travelers with similar interests.

Don’t miss out on the rich history and culture that these colorful villages have to offer during your solo Italy trip.

Take a day trip from major cities like Florence or Milan to immerse yourself in the Renaissance art and history lovers’ paradise that is Cinque Terre, and revel in the delicious food and vibrant city life that make it a great destination for solo travel in Italy.

Off the Beaten Path: Uncovering Hidden Italian Treasures

Apart from its renowned cities and tourist spots, Italy holds a wealth of hidden treasures.

Straying away from the popular routes can bring solo travelers exceptional and genuine adventures, far from the noise and bustle of mainstream destinations.

Venturing into lesser-known Italian towns and regions presents an opportunity for a more immersive travel experience.

For instance, Umbria’s inland area provides similar pleasures as Tuscany but without the large crowds or expensive costs.

Tourists can indulge in wine tasting featuring locally produced grechetto grapes or sagrantino grapes while exploring charming medieval villages perched atop hills.

Lesser-Known Italian Towns and Regions

Venturing beyond the popular tourist spots in Italy, solo travelers can discover hidden gems such as the medieval hilltop town of Civita di Bagnoregio in Lazio, the trulli houses of Alberobello in Puglia, and the pristine beaches of the Maremma region in Tuscany.

These areas offer an opportunity for a deep dive into Italian culture without being surrounded by large crowds that typically gather at more well-known attractions.

Unique Experiences for the Solo Traveler in Italy

For solo travelers, Italy presents an abundance of unique and personalized adventures, making it one of the most popular solo travel destinations in the world.

If you’re seeking an adrenaline boost, look no further than the Dolomite Mountains in northern Italy. These jagged peaks are a paradise for solo travelers who enjoy hiking trails, skiing, or rock climbing.

For those who appreciate the arts, a solo trip to Italy is incomplete without experiencing the Renaissance art in cities like Florence, where the Uffizi Gallery awaits with its priceless treasures.

Or perhaps, take a leisurely day trip to the floating city of Venice to marvel at the grandeur of St. Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace.

Whether you’re on your first solo trip or are a seasoned solo traveller, Italy’s safe and friendly environment makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to travel solo and create unforgettable memories.

Solo Travel Essentials: Tips and Tricks for a Smooth Journey

Solo travel has its own rewards and can be a valuable learning experience, but it also comes with unique difficulties.

To help make your trip through Italy smoother, here are some essential tips and tactics to keep in mind.

Navigating Italian Cities and Towns: Transportation Tips

Exploring Italy is relatively straightforward with its efficient public transportation system.

Solo travelers can easily connect between major cities such as Milan, Florence, and Rome using high-speed trains like Trenitalia and ItaloTreno.

For smaller towns like those in Puglia located in the southern region of Italy, it may be necessary to rent a car due to limited options for public transportation and more remote locations.

This allows solo travelers greater flexibility in navigating these areas at their own pace.

Accommodation Choices: From Hostels to Boutique Hotels

Solo travelers have a variety of lodging choices in Italy, including:

• Hostels that are affordable and encourage social interaction for meeting other people
• Smaller hotels that offer more seclusion
• Airbnb rentals where guests can experience the comfort of home.

The average cost per day for accommodation is approximately €65 if staying at a hotel, while hostels can be as low as €30.

Italian Cuisine Solo: Dining Tips and Must-Try Foods

Italy’s celebrated cuisine is a major highlight for any traveler. Solo adventurers can relish the experience of dining alone, particularly since Italians often eat dinner late – around 9 or 10 pm.

This later dining culture can make solo diners feel more at ease. For a more intimate dining experience, you might prefer to sit at the bar or ask for a table in a quiet corner of the restaurant.

Don’t miss out on trying quintessential Italian dishes such as pasta carbonara, authentic Neapolitan pizza, creamy risotto, and delectable gelato for dessert.

Engaging with Italian Art and History

Italy offers a wealth of opportunities for those interested in art and history, from the well-preserved relics of Rome to the breathtaking works of the Renaissance found in Florence.

For solo travelers looking to immerse themselves in Italian culture and potentially make new acquaintances, group tours and activities like cooking classes are highly recommended.

Solo adventurers can engage with Italy’s rich heritage by joining organized group excursions or participating in hands-on experiences such as culinary workshops.

These options not only provide an avenue for cultural immersion, but also provide an avenue for cultural immersion.

Experiencing Local Festivals and Events

Participating in traditional festivals and events is an excellent means of fully embracing the Italian way of life. Italy boasts a variety of celebrations, including:

• the colorful Carnevale in Venice
• the energetic horse race known as L’Ardia di San Costantino in Sardinia
• the historic Regatta of the Ancient Maritime Republics, which takes place in Amalfi, Genoa, Pisa, and Venice on a rotating basis
• the Sagra dell’Uva, the grape festival in Marino, where fountains flow with wine instead of water

In addition, the Infiorata di Genzano is a floral spectacle featuring intricate designs made of petals, and the Festa della Madonna Bruna in Matera is marked by a dramatic chariot procession.

There’s never a shortage of festivities to experience throughout this beautiful country.

Health and Safety Tips for Solo Travelers

For solo travelers, especially women, it is important to practice self-care and stay vigilant while traveling alone.

Simple measures such as packing light, having a SIM card for emergency internet access, and dressing appropriately to blend in with the local culture can greatly contribute to a safe and enjoyable trip.

It is important to be prepared for emergencies, as they can occur despite careful planning. Having essential information readily available can prove extremely useful in such situations.

In Italy, the primary emergency number is 112 and it does not incur any charges when dialed. This connects individuals to the most suitable emergency service based on their situation.

Budgeting for Your Italian Solo Adventure

Budgeting is a crucial part of organizing a trip to Italy by yourself. It involves handling day-to-day costs and seeking out cost-effective ways to explore the country’s attractions.

Here are some suggestions for effectively planning your budget.

Cost-Saving Solo Travel Tips and Tricks

Don’t let budget constraints prevent you from fully experiencing the wonders of Italy.

You can still indulge in delicious street food or inexpensive supermarket meals and delve into the country’s cultural heritage by taking advantage of free or discounted admissions to top attractions.

With a little creativity, there are plenty of affordable ways to enjoy all that Italy has to offer without overspending.

Managing Expenses: From Sightseeing to Souvenirs

Solo travelers in Italy can effectively manage their expenses through strategic planning and decision-making.

Opting for affordable dining options and shopping at local markets for souvenirs are just some ways to make the most out of your budget while on a solo trip.

Closing Thoughts: Why Italy is Ideal for Solo Travelers

Italy, a well-known city among the most popular solo travel destinations, offers a safe environment where you can grow, explore, and create unforgettable memories.

With its rich history, excellent food, and stunning landscapes, from the romantic city of Venice and its Grand Canal to the serene beauty of Lake Como in northern Italy, the country is a solo travel paradise.

For solo female travellers, Italy is particularly inviting, providing a chance to wander through cobbled streets, visit UNESCO World Heritage sites, and partake in activities like cooking classes or food tours.

The city of Rome, with its ancient history, and the vibrant city centers of Florence, known for Renaissance art, are just a few of the best Italian cities to explore independently.

When you travel Italy solo, you learn to navigate different situations, speak Italian with locals, and enjoy solo dining in a hilltop town or a bustling city center.

Italy’s public transportation makes day trips and moving between popular solo travel destinations like the Amalfi Coast and the floating city of Venice a breeze.

While the average cost of a solo Italy trip might be around €130 per day, using solo travel tips like visiting during the shoulder seasons can save money and avoid crowds.

Dining customs, such as the later dinner times, offer solo travelers the chance to savor Italian food without feeling out of place.

In summary, a solo trip to Italy is a chance to embrace independence and experience a wealth of cultural and historical treasures.

With careful planning and an open mind, your solo travel adventure in Italy is sure to be an enriching and memorable experience that will inspire you for years to come.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Solo Travel in Italy

Is italy good for solo travellers.

Solo travelers can rest assured that Italy is a secure and favored destination, as it receives millions of tourists annually who have not reported major safety concerns during their visits.

Where in Italy is best for solo travel?

For those traveling alone, Florence is a stunning and secure destination. Particularly in the vicinity of the Duomo, which offers easy access for solo exploration.

If you are planning on embarking on a journey by yourself, consider choosing this city as your next adventure!

Solo female travel: is Italy safe for solo travelers, including women?

Solo travelers, including women, can feel safe when venturing through Italy’s enchanting cities and picturesque landscapes.

As a solo female traveler, you can explore with confidence, knowing that Italy is known for its hospitality and security.

Embrace your journey with assurance and delight in the freedom that solo female travel offers in this beautiful country. Be assured and have a great trip!

When is the best time to travel solo to Italy?

For those who enjoy traveling solo, the ideal time to visit Italy is during April and May or September and October. These shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather conditions without being too crowded with tourists.

What are some Italian dining customs that solo travelers should be aware of?

As a solo traveler dining in Italy, it’s important to remember that meal times are usually later in the evening, typically around 9 or 10 pm. This means you can dine alone without feeling too conspicuous and enjoy your food at your own speed.

What are the top 10 travel destinations in Italy?

These top 10 travel destinations in Italy offer a taste of everything that makes the country a favorite among travelers:

• Cinque Terre

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2. You Need a Wifi Plan

Unfortunately, the wifi situation in Italy isn’t anything to write home about.

There isn’t an extensive wifi network in Italy, and you have to rely on businesses that provide complimentary wifi out of the goodness of their hearts.

Cafés, restaurants, hotels, and the occasional museum are your best shot.

Not every restaurant or café provides complimentary wifi, but a lot of them that are in the main tourist areas do.

If you need access to the internet on a consistent and reliable basis, you should not rely on public wifi.

You need to find a wifi alternative, and you have three options:

• Rent pocket wifi
• Buy a Skyroam ( read my full review here )
• Download an esim to your phone (my favourite option)

Both options will give you unlimited access to the internet no matter where you are!

It is disappointing that Italy doesn’t have an extensive public wifi network, but most countries in Europe don’t either. They definitely need to up their game!

You will be relying on public wifi during your solo trip to Italy.

Even if you have a pocket wifi device, it eventually needs to be charged, and you will be forced to connect to your hotel wifi.

Any time you connect to a public wifi network, you put yourself at risk of having your information stolen.

The only way to keep your devices safe is by installing a VPN on your phone, laptop, and tablet.

A VPN makes a public wifi network just as secure as your home wifi network where you’re the only person who knows the password.

If you can afford to travel, you can afford a few extra dollars per month to protect your online safety.

My Favourite VPN

I’ve used a lot of VPNs over my years of travel, and, frankly, most of them suck. They slow down your phone so much that you disconnect from the VPN in frustration and put your devices at risk.

The only VPN I’ve used that doesn’t slow down my phone to a snail’s pace is NordVPN .

It is by far the fastest VPN on the market, which is very important to travellers. We all know that public wifi isn’t always the fastest, and you don’t need your VPN slowing down your internet connection even more!

Another reason I love NordVPN is the ability to cloak my location.

You can change your location int the app to make it look like you’re in a different country than you actually are.

This allows you to unlock that country’s Netflix catalogue (yay!) as well as any hotel or flight deals exclusive to that country.

Protecting your online data is essential .

There is zero excuse to leave your online devices open to being hacked and having your information stolen.

It is so easy to protect your online data, and it costs less than the prices of a Starbucks per month!

3. Beware of Scooters in Rome

I wouldn’t call Italy a dangerous place. The fear of getting hurt certainly isn’t a reason not to take a solo trip to Italy.

The one major exception to that are the scooters in Rome.

They can cause some serious harm.

I’ve seen many tourists almost get hit by scooters because they aren’t paying attention.

Please, please, please look both ways before crossing the street and keep an eye out for scooters.

Especially at night!

There may be a red light in front of them, but they don’t always stop. If nobody is coming from the other direction (especially at night), there is a chance they may go straight through the light.

The scooter drivers may not see you, and it is your responsibility to stay out of their way.

Just be cautious.

Nobody needs to get hurt because they’re trying to beat a scooter across the street!

PS- check out these overrated cities in Europe. You may be surprised to see a few Italian cities on the list!

4. English is Widely Spoken

You won’t run into a language issue during your solo trip to Italy.

Nearly everybody (young and old) speak English. You can ask pretty much anybody you run into for directions, and they will be able to understand and communicate with you.

You won’t run into any communication issues, which makes travelling to Italy alone a breeze.

I always recommend that travellers learn a few words in the local language before travelling.

It is polite and shows a level of respect for the people and country you’re visiting.

Just a few common words like hello, goodbye, and thank you are enough.

The more the better though!

5. Get Off the Beaten Track

Italy is home to some of the most popular cities in Europe.

Nearly everybody dreams of visiting Rome, Venice, and Florence, but Italy has so much more to offer.

One of the best parts of travelling to Italy alone is that you’re in complete control.

You can do and see whatever you want, and you should take advantage of that.

Get off the beaten track and see more of what Italy has to offer outside the most popular cities.

There are countless small villages, towns, and cities you can (and should) explore. They give you a different taste of Italy.

An idea of what Italy is like without the hoards of tourists.

The Italy that locals enjoy and love.

Visiting off the beaten track locations is one of the best experiences you can have while travelling!

You don’t have to go out of your way to experience a less touristy area.

You can take a day trip from a major city and experience a different side of Italy.

Add an extra day or two onto your trip and dedicate it taking day trips from Rome or Florence.

It doesn’t take much of a Google search to learn about cool, often forgotten about destinations that are a few hours from the major tourists hubs.

You’ll be so glad you took the time to get out of the city and experience more of Italy!

PS- be sure you know this before flying alone for the first time

6. Be Courteous (Especially in Venice)

This is one of the most important things you need to know when you visit Italy.

Not just when you’re on a solo trip to Italy. Everybody who visits the country needs to know this!

It is imperative that you’re respectful and courteous.

Italy is overrun by tourists, and it often feels like there are more tourists than locals in some cities.

But people actually live there and deserve to be respected.

I’m specifically talking about Venice, but it applies to every city.

Venice is hugely popular with tourists, and the locals are getting fed up with tens of millions of tourists visiting their city every year.

It impacts their daily lives and makes their normal day harder to navigate.

They have to fight through crowds when travelling to and from work or running errands.

They have to wait in long queues to eat at their favourite restaurants, and over tourism is increasing the waste and pollution in the city.

I’m by no means saying not to go to Venice or other Italian cities.

You just need to make sure you’re visiting them as responsibly as possible.

Travel is a privilege not a right.

You need to disturb the local environment as little as possible when you visit any city as a tourist.

So be aware of your surroundings, try not to get in the way, and leave Italy cleaner than when you got there!

7. Indulge in a Food Tour

Italy is known for its incredible food, and there is no better addition to your solo trip to Italy itinerary than partaking in a food tour!

There are food tours in every major city, and they range in price.

You can spend a lot of money and go on a high-end food tour or spend a fraction of the price and go on a more everyday food tour.

Any food tour you take will be amazing and worth every penny you spend on it!

You can also find food tours that cater to any dietary restrictions, which is amazing!

One of the best parts of a food tour is you get to try a bunch of different food places that you probably wouldn’t have time to visit on your solo trip to Italy.

You get a taste from a number of different restaurants and food providers, and if you fall in love with one place, you can go back for a full meal on your own!

Food is an important part of any culture.

Going on a food tour with an expert helps you understand the different ways food has shaped Italy and how food has grown and melded flavours from different regions over time.

Plus who doesn’t want to walk from restaurant to restaurant with an expert guide trying all the amazing carb-loaded dishes Italy is known for?!

Plus there is a good chance you’ll get to sample some of Italy’s incredible wine !

PS- check out the top 10 European countries for solo travellers

8. It is Very Affordable

You solo trip to Italy won’t break the bank!

Italy is one of the least expensive of the popular tourist countries in Europe. Travelling alone in Italy will cost significantly less than a solo trip to France , Germany, UK, Ireland, Belgium.

The list goes on and on and on.

The affordability of Italy is what surprised me most about the country. I expected it to be much more expensive considering it is a tourist hub!

Italy isn’t as affordable as a country like Ukraine, but it is on par with Spain and Portugal.

A solo trip to Italy may be a good choice if you’re on a tight budget and don’t want to sacrifice too much comfort or miss out on any experiences.

Venice, unsurprisingly, is one of the most expensive cities in Italy.

If you’re going to rely on cheap eats and the grocery store anywhere in Italy, it will definitely be in Venice!

But outside of Venice, a Euro goes a long way.

You can get dinner and a glass of wine for less than €10 in Rome and Florence. As long as you’re not eating right outside the popular tourist attractions.

Get a little ways outside of the tourist hub and find a local place.

The food will be better and less expensive!

9. Beware of Scams

There are, unfortunately, a lot of scams in Italy.

Every popular tourist destination has scams, so that isn’t a reason not to take a solo trip to Italy.

You just need to be educated on that most popular scams, so you can not fall victim to them.

Here is a list of some of the most common scams in Italy.

Rome is the hot bed of scams in Italy and where you should be most on guard.

The city of Rome has been getting better at stopping scammers, but it is impossible for the city to completely eradicate it.

Pick pocketing is a huge issue, and you need to be aware of your surroundings.

Keep your purse in close to you at all times and don’t keep valuables in your pockets.

Bus route 63 is one of the most famous places for pick pockets to get tourists. The bus route hits a lot of the major tourist sights in the city, and pick pocketers hang out along the route and pry on unsuspecting tourists.

Another thing to be weary of are Romeo boys.

This is where men try to woe tourists (more commonly women) into thinking they are going to have an Italian love affair (such a trope in movies!), and they end up scamming tourists out of a lot of money.

As a basic rule of thumb: if a man approaches you at Trevi Fountains and tells you you’re the most beautiful woman he’s ever laid eyes one, sorry to tell you, but you’re being scammed.

This isn’t a romance novel. Sorry to crush your dreams!

But it is way better to be safe than sorry!

All in all, as long as you’re aware that scamming is an issue in popular Italian cities and keep your wits about you, you’ll be fine and won’t run into any issues.

PS- If you’re planning to visit the Vatican, be sure to read this article for the best Vatican tips to ensure you have an amazing time and don’t get scammed.

10. Cities are Very Walkable

If you enjoy walking, a solo trip to Italy is a no brainer!

The cities in Italy are very walkable.

Once you arrive in the city, you can pretty much walk everywhere and not have to rely on public transportation to get around!

Not only does this save you money, but it also lets you see parts of the city you wouldn’t get to if you too public transportation.

You never know what sights, sounds, and tastes you’ll stumble upon when walking from one tourist attraction to the other.

I’ve stumbled on some of my favourite restaurants and neighbourhoods just by walking over my years of travel.

Plus it is a great way to walk off some of those carbs and make room for the next meal!

PS- read this article on the truth about solo travel

Do you feel more prepared for your solo trip to Italy?!

It is truly one of the easiest countries for solo travellers and a great way to start your solo travel career.

Travelling alone in Italy is so easy and a very good choice for your first solo trip to Europe.

It is affordable, easy to get around, the people are friendly, and the food is incredible !

It isn’t personally my favourite country in Europe, but I think I’m in the minority with that one.

I know so many people who are obsessed with Italy and keep going back year after year to explore more and more of the country.

They must be onto something right!

It is hard to beat the sights of Italy, and once you get out of the major tourist hubs, it is a much more relaxing trip.

I highly recommend a solo trip to Italy.

You’ll have an amazing time and easily navigate solo travel if you’re new to it.

And if you’re an experienced solo traveller, all the better! Get far off the beaten track and experience some of Italy’s hidden gems.

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5 perfect destinations in Italy for solo travel

Italy isn’t all cozy gondola rides in Venice and romantic Vespa rides through Rome. There are some incredible cities that ooze with experiences for solo travel, you just need to know where to go.

Not to say that a trip to the floating city of Venice isn’t worthwhile, but it can feel more suited to an idyllic couples getaway than a solo adventure. Not to worry; we’ve got you covered. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the spectacular coastline, the dream Italy trip can be yours – whether you’re thinking of adventuring on your own, or solo on a small group tour .

So, now for the good stuff. Here are five great cities in Italy for taking in the country’s history, culture, beauty and – of course – delicious eats. 

It’s no secret — Bologna’s food is great company on its own, but there’s more to look forward to than that. For solo travelers, cultivating your relationship with food is but one of this historic city’s perks.

READ MORE: WHY BOLOGNA IS THE DREAM CITY FOR FOODIES (AND WHAT TO EAT THERE)

Bologna is also nicknamed la dotta, meaning “the learned one” as it’s the oldest university town in Italy. This learning culture makes Bologna all the more welcoming for solo travelers who, like students, bring a spunky energy and thirst for experiences (and for aperitivo ). Many students speak English, which makes it all that much easier to learn the story behind the many massive graffiti murals and ask for help navigating through its roughly 40km of gorgeous porticos. That said, the medieval city center is perfectly compact, so easy to stroll through.

An Intrepid traveller enjoying a pasta-making class in Bologna

You’ll also notice eccentric Gothic fashion cues, perhaps influenced by the Gothic landmarks like Basilica di San Francesco and Abbazia di Santo.

VISIT BOLOGNA ON INTREPID TRAVEL’S 8-DAY ITALY REAL FOOD ADVENTURE

The city of Siena in central Tuscany, just south of Florence, is made up of stunning pink-hued medieval buildings built on top of three hills. It’s equal parts peaceful as it is rich in action. And then there’s the Palio horse race. Siena is famed  for this race that takes place twice every summer (mid July and the end of August) in the main square, Piazza del Campo. 

On the car-less roads, you can visit wine caves and sample some of the most delicious Chianti, Brunello, and Montepulciano wines that are exclusive to the region. Venture underground to explore the tangle of caves that house massive aging barrels. Buff up on your wine knowledge and food pairings as you hop from one sampling from the next – you’re well on your way to becoming a wine connoisseur!

The World Heritage Site also has many sweet shops for panforte di siena, a traditional fruit cake, and ricciarelli, Sienese almond cookies. And if you thought Siena couldn’t get any sweeter… One of the oldest universities is located there. Even more excitingly, you’ll find that Siena has very friendly people who are often out and about enjoying the city – just as you are.

READ MORE: 6 CITIES IN ITALY TO VISIT BEFORE EVERYONE ELSE DOES

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is made up of five fishing communities lined up along the Italian Riviera: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for the mosaic of pastel houses that stretch along the coast. Stunning stuff. When in Italy for solo travel, this is the perfect place for “me” time.

One of the main attractions is the footpaths leading from one city to the next. It’s a foolproof way to explore the city and stay active, whether you want to spend the hike in your own head or chat with people you meet on the trail. There are different sections of the trail, each offering their own level of difficulty, so you can choose to challenge yourself or take it at your leisure.

A solo traveller taking in the sights of Vernazza, Cinque Terre

Hiking is  the best way to experience the rugged coastline from innumerable numerous v antage points and capture postcard-worthy photos. You’ll also get views of vistas, olive groves, and vineyards — a solid slice of la dolce vita .

Cinque Terre isn’t only a playground to be explored by foot. Pop into a kayak near Portofino or take a dip in the ocean and kick back on the beach. After, head down to the docks where fisherman and sailboats are docked. These oceanside towns have mouthwatering seafood, like friggitoria , a bite-sized seafood that’s served in a cone for optimal snackability.

VISIT CINQUE TERRE ON INTREPID’S 8-DAY HIGHLIGHTS OF ITALY TOUR

Florence is the dreamy capital of Italy’s Tuscany region. It’s home to some iconic Renaissance architectural masterpieces, so you’re not short on things to do and places to see. Thankfully, Florence is easily walkable so you’re not in the crossfire of traffic as you try to navigate between sights.

In Florence you can be admiring the works of da Vinci and Michelangelo one minute, exploring the Duomo cathedral another and end up on Ponte Vecchio the next, checking out the gold shops. Take in the ultimate view of Florence at Piazzale Michelangelo or take a stroll through the lush Boboli gardens.

Florence’s Duomo at sunset

Naturally, with all of these stunning points of interest, Florence is hot on the tourist trail. You’re bound to meet like-minded travelers to explore the city, perhaps over a cheeky afternoon Aperol Spritz? And of course, we yet again need to mention the food — arguably one of Italy’s main attractions.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO EAT IN ITALY: A CITY-BY-CITY GUIDE

You don’t need to be sitting around a table with your aunts and cousins to feel the familial atmosphere in Florence. Restaurants here are brimming with diners, especially when there’s a football match on. And dining alone in Florence isn’t uncommon; you can always grab a slice of pizza to eat on the edge of the Arno River. 

A solo traveller at Ponte Vecchio, Florence

Lucca is a little slice of Tuscan heaven. Renaissance-era walls enclose the historic city center and its large medieval square. Rolling hills, filled with olive groves and wineries, surround the walled-off areas.

Lucca’s agritourism and slower pace of living have created the ideal setting to learn olive oil-making processes and enjoy the countryside. Embrace slow travel by biking along Serchio River and cool down in one of the rivers’  swimming holes on hot summer days.

READ MORE: WHAT IT’S REALLY LIKE BEING SOLO ON A GROUP TOUR OF ITALY

It’s a lot less hurried and crowded in Lucca —two characteristics that most travelers can come to appreciate after spending time in bigger cities. It also helps that the center of the city is closed off to traffic so you can mosey along the cobbled roads and admire sights like San Michele church without dodging motorbikes.

Thanks to its wholesome atmosphere,  travelers tend to feel very safe in the city and less bothered by persistent vendors. This vibe even extends to Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, the city’s medieval oval plaza. Its surrounded by cafés serving dishes like tortelli lucchese , a signature regional dish of a delicious meat-stuffed pasta.

Ready to embark on your very own adventure in Italy? Check out Intrepid’s range of small group tours there.

(Siena photo c/o Ambra Tonini. All other images c/o Intrepid Travel.)

Feeling inspired?

Julie Faye Germansky

I am a storyteller based in Toronto with a passion for all potato-based dishes, solo travel, sky-high views and talking to strangers. Join me for the ride at talk-to-strangers.com or keep up with my Instagram @julesfayegermansky and Twitter @julsgermansky

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A Solo Traveler's Guide to Italy

Within this article, why take a solo trip to italy, popular solo travel destinations in italy, top italy tours for solo travelers, when is the best time for a solo trip to italy, what to pack for italy solo travel, is italy an expensive solo travel destination, is italy safe for solo travelers, how to plan a solo trip to italy, central italy.

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Puglia Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

82 puglia tours for singles / solo travelers with 486 reviews.

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Matera & Apulia Private 5 Day Tour

The trip to Puglia was terrific. we stayed at wonderful places!

Discover Matera and Taste of Salento Tour

The food was genuine Italian with a wide variety of dishes available - ranging from delicious desserts to great pasta and seafood dishes.

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The destinations and hotel accommodations were excellent. The tour would be much better just having a group of 20 or less.

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Wonderful places and professional guides.

Cycling Puglia & Matera

The hills were too difficult for me and a couple of the distances too long.

Puglia: Discover the Heel of Italy

The tour itself had an excellent balance of activities and free time. My daughter and I really enjoyed the tour.

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Highlights of Puglia

Hotel room in Bari was horrible but everything else was really good.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

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Everything about it was top notch and Puglia is amazing. Can't fault it!

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Alberobello hotel was maybe 3 star, not 4 star like Bari and Lecce hotels.

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Puglia Tour - the perfect combination of lifestyle, culture, history and cuisine

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What people love about Puglia Solo Tours

My daughter and I recently spent a wonderful week with an absolutely amazing family on their Olive Farm. Emilio, his wife Clara and their 4 children as well as Emilio’s brother Miguel were the perfect hosts. Chef Emilio prepared our breakfast and evening meal each day and either Emilio, Clara or Miguel took us on outings to visit the area to such wonderful places such as Otranto, Castro, Gallipoli (one of my favourite) as well as Zinzulusa Cave which was very interesting. One evening we visited the city of Lecce with Antonio, Emilio and Miguel’s father, which is so beautifully lit up at night and then we stopped at a local famous pizza restaurant and the pizza was absolutely delicious. Great experience and I’d do it again! We then went to the city of Matera for 3 wonderful days and had fantastic tours with Alessio and Cosimo. I had to go home and watch the James Bond movie No Time to Die again to see the wonderful views of Matera within the film. We would also like to thank Omar from Solento Tours. He was most helpful with our requests for further changes to our itinerary once we completed the city of Matera portion where we decided to go to the Amalfi Coast and Naples. Thanks Omar!!

A terrific experience made up of 2 parts. Salento meant being with Emilio and Clara and their family on the farm/ restaurant and visiting some amazing places in the area. We loved their company and the fascinating places we saw there. We appreciated the flexibility and particularly the unique experience of being part of their family ( including Pongo the dog) . There were many gastronomic highlights as well. Matera was an eye opener in many ways with its incredible history and we have never stayed in a luxury cave before.

The destinations and hotel accomodations were excellent. We did this trip during the late May and early June timeframe. Our tour was promoted as a 14 person max tour which was not exactly true. There were 2 groups of people split by English Speaking and Spanish Speaking. There were 2 seperate groups but touring the same places, hotels and restuarants. More people then to deal with and figure out logistics and wait time. Overall fairly smooth but room for improvement by decreasing wait time staying on schedule. The tour left a little late each morning so we had less time to see the sights and our free time to explore on our own. Our guides English comprehension was limited and difficult to understand the English with her heavy Italy accent. The tour would be much better just having a group of 20 or less and a better guide that could explain the sights better.

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‘Unbelievably easy to explore’: Travellers recommend the best places for a first-time solo trip

Heading off on your first ever solo trip can be intimidating. Head to these European destinations for an easy ride.

Keen to try solo travel but anxious about what to expect? From communicating to getting around, there are lots of unknowns that you’ll have to navigate on your own.

Choosing the right destination for your first trip alone can make or break your experience.

With good transport connections, friendly locals and minimal language barriers, here are the best places for first-time solo travellers, according to users of Reddit’s r/travel forum.

Take the train from historic towns to diverse natural sites in Spain’s Andalusia

The autonomous community of Andalusia on Spain ’s southern coast is packed with historic old towns, affordable cities and stunning nature - all well connected by public transport.

This is great for solo travellers who want to navigate on their own without the stress and cost of driving abroad .

One Reddit user says “a trip around Malaga, Ronda, Sevilla , Cordoba, Granada… is very easy by public transport”. Another recommends taking the train down to Andalucia from Madrid to Toledo, Cordoba - “don't miss this one” - and Seville. “Always give a recommendation to Cordoba. Truly a unique place,” agrees another.

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Córdoba is especially popular for its blend of Roman and Moorish history. To explore the latter, book a ticket to the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba. Now a World Heritage site , it has been wowing visitors with its colourful arches and sheer size since the Middle Ages.

Prefer to be outdoors? Andalusia has you covered on that front, too.

“There's some pretty great places to hike in Andalusia as well if you want to be in nature,” says one Reddit user.

From the snowy peaks of Sierra Nevada to the ancient woodland of Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, the sub-tropical beaches of Granada to the wild beauty of the Almería desert, there’s something to suit every type of solo adventurer .

Go from city to beach without breaking the bank in Portugal

Portugal ranks highly as a top destination for first-time solo travellers.

Reddit users recommend starting in Porto , the home of port wine. It’s “ walkable and the locals are great”, says one Reddit user.

From here, take the train to Lisbon for “excellent” and “inexpensive” food, with plenty of English-speakers to help you on your journey.

For more money-saving, get the Lisboa Card - a pass that covers transportation , discounts and entry to over 50 museums and monuments - recommends one Reddit user.

“It's discounted/free admission to a bunch of local landmarks, plus unlimited metro/bus rides, plus free rides on the commuter trains out to Sintra (definitely worth visiting, especially Pena Palace - but go early in the morning) and Cascais,” they say.

Once you’ve had enough of city life, continue south to the Algarve’s Atlantic beaches - reachable in three hours by train.

Explore ancient temples and golden beaches in this English-speaking archipelago

Malta comes highly recommended for English speakers worried about communication - it’s one of the country’s official languages alongside Maltese.

The compact island is easily navigable by bus or taxi, making “great, modern party towns, gorgeous historic cities… lovely beaches and countryside all accessible within an hour or so from your hotel,” says one Reddit user.

• ‘The perfect place to unwind’: Travellers recommend their favourite uncrowded destinations in Europe

Don’t let the country’s small size fool you though - with three islands to explore, you won’t get bored. Don’t miss the ancient Ggantija temple complex on Gozo , whose megalithic structures are over a thousand years older than the pyramids of Giza.

Drawing on cultures from across the Mediterranean, the country’s seasonal, rustic food draws on Italian and North African influences.

“It's a wonderful place to start working all this stuff out for yourself,” says one Reddit user. “One of my favourite destinations that I’ve ever travelled to. I can’t think of a better stepping stone to solo travel in Europe,” adds another. “Locals are friendly, food is superb, and it’s unbelievably easy to explore.”

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