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How to plan an Italy trip

Want to know how to plan an Italy trip? You’ve come to the right place. Italy trip planning is one of our favorite things to do. So much so that we set up this website.

We wrote this article to take you step by step through planning your trip. From deciding when to go and how much it will cost to what to take and how to use your mobile phone, it’s all here to remove the overwhelm and make your trip planning easier. Even if you choose to hire a travel agent to assist with your bookings, it is a good idea to walk through these steps as it will help the agent build the best trip for you.

You can see an overview of the steps you need to follow in the article contents below. Follow our guide and you’ll be on your way to planning your own trip or choosing the right tour for you and your travel companions.

Article contents

Step 1 – Decide when you want to go and your budget

When to go to italy.

There is no bad time to visit Italy but there may be one that suits you better. Depending on your interests and the places you want to see you need to be aware of seasonal differences that you need to know about:

• Summer – June to August: peak tourist season, weather is hot and prices higher. Many Italians are on vacation and the coastal areas are very busy especially in mid August
• Fall / Autumn – September to November: September remains hot and busy in most of the major tourist centers. By October the weather is cooling and ferry services on the coast and lakes stop running. At this time grape harvest is in full swing. November is generally quite wet but there is lots of sunshine between the showers.
• Winter – December to February: As the weather cools so do the crowds. Attractions are much less busy and the lead up to Christmas is magical with lights and decorations in shop windows. In January and February restaurants in many coastal areas are closed. February’s Carnevale in Venice is generally one of the most expensive times to visit the city
• Spring – March to May: In March and April wildflowers bloom and the countryside is awash with color. Easter is a popular holiday for Europeans to visit Italian cities especially Rome, Florence and Venice.

NOTE: peak season in the most visited destinations is May – October.

Our favorite time to visit Italy in the shoulder months. In April and May and October and November the weather is generally sunny and mild, the crowds are manageable and you can find great value deals on your flight and accommodation.

Although we are past the worst of the pandemic and travel restrictions, things can change quickly – you can check our article Can you travel to Italy plus current situation.  We update this regularly with the latest travel news.  

READ: Our full article on the best time to visit Italy

How much will it cost?

This will depend on your expectations, interests and travel style. You can travel very cheaply in Italy if you visit lesser-known regional areas and avoid the big cities. Even in the big cities it is possible to find free attractions and budget accommodation if you know where to look.

If you want to see the main sights and enjoy experiences such as cooking classes, private boat cruises and wine tours then the sky is really the limit when it comes to cost.

Most travelers fall somewhere in the middle however and a reasonable daily budget per person for food, transport and activities is around €100 on top of flights and accommodation.

READ: Our full article on Budgeting for your trip to Italy.

Expert Assistance

Need some help planning your trip?

Book in for a trip consultation with our expert Italy travel planners ready to help you build your dream vacation in Italy whether that be a classic first timer trip or an off the beaten path adventure

Step 2 – Do some preliminary research and preparation

Where to research your trip to italy.

From online news and magazines, blogs, Instagram, Facebook groups (check out Italy Travel Planning ) and even podcasts like ours – there are thousands of resources online. I am sure you’ve already seen quite a few of them already. Sometimes endless options can be overwhelming so we recommend collecting ideas in an online folder or scrapbook and organizing them into destinations that you really want to see.

You’ll probably want to “do it all” but really have a think about your interests and what will best suit you and your travel style. Once you have some ideas, it’s best to consult a structured resource to check your assumptions and thoughts.

Traditional guidebooks definitely have their place for planning a trip to Italy. Well researched and structured, they’ll give you in depth information on destinations and sights to see as well as practical tips to help you plan. Even after 30+ trips to Italy we still consult guidebooks for new destinations we want to visit. You can find our favorite Italy guidebooks here .

Italy travel planners

We noticed that even guidebooks can provide too much information in the planning process so we created one page travel planners for the top places to visit in Italy. Our planners tell you the top sights, best viewpoints, must have experiences and our favorite places to eat (including best gelato stops) in each place.

You can print them off or keep them on your phone and there’s a link to an online map so you can map out your days. We have guides for Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast and Sorrento. Our goal is always to simplify the trip planning process and we know you will find them useful.

DISCOVER: Our Digital travel guides and planners .

Group tour itineraries

Tour companies – like ours ! – put a lot of effort into designing tours that cover the main sights and even lesser known regions. They know the times it takes to get around and how long you can stay in each place to get a taste or feel for the destination.

We often check itineraries of places we would like to visit as an input into our own planning.  Here are some recommended tour companies and itineraries to investigate.

Private tours

If you want maximum flexibility and comfort, consider a private driving tour . From the moment you land, to when you depart, you’ll have a personal driver with local knowledge making sure your trip is exactly what you imagined.

Passports and visas

At this stage of your planning it is a good idea to check the validity of your passport and if you require a visa. Citizens of the United States, Australia, Canada, United Kingdom and New Zealand may enter Italy and stay up to 90 days without a visa within an 180 day period. You must have 6 months validity on your passport when you enter Italy. Go and check this now as it can take several months for new passports to be processed.

All other nationalities should check this Italian government site that will walk you through whether a visa is required for your visit.

Citizens of the European Union can travel with photo identification.

Please note – this information is subject to change and it is always best to check with your local foreign office for the latest advice on travel to Italy.

• United States –  click here
• Australia –  click here
• United Kingdom –  click here
• Canada –  click here

READ: Can you travel to Italy plus current situation .

Step 3 – Confirm your itinerary

Itinerary planning is where many people get stuck. We understand. There are so many amazing places to see in Italy that deciding where to go and how much time to spend there can be hard. As a general rule, we like to spend a minimum of three nights in each place to minimize time spent traveling and also enjoy each place as much as possible. So if you have a 10 day trip then 3 main stops would be a good baseline to start with.

Where to go

From your research, you probably have an idea of where you want to go. You may want to visit the popular cities and regions on your first trip however each city and region in Italy offers something special.

Most popular cities

Most popular regions.

On our site, you can also browse Italy’s lesser-known cities and regions on the destinations page or visit our article on hidden gems in Italy for inspiration.

Itinerary suggestions

As a general rule, for a 3-5 day trip we suggest choosing one destination – a city or region. If you have a week to 10 days then you can plan 1-3 places in either the north OR south of Italy. In a two week trip you could cover 3-4 places and see both north and south.

Try not to squeeze too much in. It’s easy to underestimate transit times and getting in and out of airports and train stations. Plus you want to have plenty of time to enjoy yourself and soak up every last moment.

Suggested itineraries

If it is your first trip to Italy, like many first-time visitors you may choose to start your journey in Rome and visit Florence and Venice. This 10 day Italy itinerary covers that route. It includes detailed instructions on how to make the most of your time in Italy.

Want our FREE Italy trip planning checklist? >> Click here .

Alternative 10 day itinerary suggestions

Most people travel to Italy for 10 to 14 days so we built some itinerary suggestions to cater for that time frame that cover both northern and southern Italy.

Group Tours

Packaged group tours of Italy are a popular way to travel and avoid the stress of planning your own trip. They are also a great option if you would like some company along the way. Here is a quick summary of popular tour companies:

• Untold Italy small group tours – we run exclusive small group tours for food and wine-loving travelers wanting to get off the beaten path to see hidden Italy beyond the major cities and tourist areas. We lead groups of 14 people on journeys of discovery to experience the regions of Sicily, Puglia, Piedmont, Tuscany, Umbria, Bologna and surrounds, Capri and the Cilento coasts > learn more
• Trafalgar – popular and well respected brand appealing to the 50+ age group. Travel is by coach and the focus is on culture and history. Expect group sizes of 40-45 passengers and 4 star hotels. Trafalgar also include interesting local experiences such as wine tastings and unique stays in their itineraries. Check out their popular Best of Italy tour
• Intrepid Travel – small group tours with an average of 10 travelers with plenty of free time built in for exploring. Their popular Italy Real Food Adventure is an 8 day itinerary that showcases their travel style well
• Peregrine – Intrepid’s premium brand offers some interesting hiking tours of the Italian Lakes and Amalfi Coast
• Tourradar – is a market place for group packaged tours where you can browse hundreds of package tours by different operators, and by date. You then filter by your interests and age group and read detailed reviews. You can browse fully organized tours to independent self-drive or train itineraries

READ: Our full article on the Best package tours for Italy .

When should you start booking your trip?

Italy is one of the most visited destinations in the world, so in our opinion, it is never too early to start the booking process. Book accommodation as soon as possible, and at least 6-12 months in advance especially for peak times in July and August.  We prefer to pay the higher rate for flexible bookings on both Booking.com and Plum Guide .

Day tour and attractions also sell out months in advance at peak times. In 2020 our preferred booking site GetYourGuide refunded all tours canceled due to the pandemic and stand by their policy of allowing cancelations with a full refund up to 24 hours before your activity starts.

Flight bookings will depend on where you are flying from. For long haul flights the best deals are generally found 6-12 months in advance while deals pop up regularly for travel within Europe.

Rail bookings can be made up to 4 months in advance on high speed intercity and standard intercity trains.

Step 4 – Book your flights, inbound travel & insurance

Flights to italy.

It is easy to fly direct (or with a single stop) into Italy from most places in the world. Rome Fiumicino [Leonardo da Vinci](FCO) international airport is the main hub for air traffic but you can also easily fly into Milan Malpensa (MXP) or Venice Marco Polo (VCE) airports from major hubs around the world.

There are many other airports throughout the country that can be accessed within Italy and Europe. Pisa is useful for trips to Tuscany and the Cinque Terre and you will need to fly into both Sicily and Sardinia.

To source the best flight deals to Italy we use a combination of Skyscanner ,  CheapoAir  and  Google flights .

• Skyscanner  – portal where you can view cheapest days and routes to fly and set alerts for price drops
• CheapoAir – uncovers the best deals on first and business class flights around the world
• Google flights  – great for checking schedules and airline routes

Secure the best deals by setting up alerts on Skyscanner for the month you wish to travel and wait for price drops. It’s good to have a price that you wish to pay in mind but be prepared to be flexible on dates and stopovers. It is often cheaper to fly into Milan rather than Rome and that city is a useful entry point for northern Italy itineraries.

TIP: always use an incognito browser window to search for flight deals. Prices are amended up for users known to be searching for specific dates and times.

Inbound rail from within Europe

Major Italian cities – Milan, Rome, Florence and Venice – have fantastic fast speed train links from other capitals and major cities in Europe. The website  Seat 61  is a great resource for planning train travel within Europe.

Bus travel to Italy

If you’re on a tight budget and traveling within Europe, then you might want to consider coming to Italy by bus. Low cost operator  Flixbus covers 3,000 destinations in 39 countries.

You can compare schedules and prices using Omio – a useful site for booking a combination of train, bus and air travel within Europe.

Organize travel insurance

Once you have booked your flights or tour, we recommend organizing travel insurance straight away. The main reason you should purchase insurance is to cover health costs and emergency repatriation to your home country should you fall ill. Since 2020 you need to check whether there is cover provided for issues relating to covid19 however general health cover is recommended regardless.

Cover for cancelation, delays and loss of belongings is a bonus and again they may not apply under pandemic conditions. You need to read all the terms and conditions of your cover including any exclusions before you commit to buy.

Policy costs vary by your country of residence, what is covered, age, existing conditions and the insurer. You can visit Worldnomads for a quick quote. We use this company for our family travels and find the cost, coverage and claims process to be good to excellent.

Another option if you are in the United States is Safety Wing’s Nomad Insurance . Unfortunately neither option provides policies for those aged over 69. In this case you can try Travel Insurance Master – a service that allows you to compare quotes and insurance policies.

Step 5 – Book accommodation and transport

Accommodation.

Choosing where to stay at each stop is an important part of itinerary planning. Italy has many different options for tourists and you can expect the usual range of hotels and bed and breakfast accommodation as well as apartments and villas.

If you plan to spend any time in the country, consider staying at an agriturismo or farm stay. This is accommodation offered by Italian farmers who earn additional income by providing rooms and meals. Very popular in Italy and Europe, prices ranges from budget to luxurious. You can find agriturismi (plural) with swimming pools, hammams, restaurants and wine cellars. We always try to build them into our itinerary. 

LISTEN: Find out about farm stays in Italy in this podcast episode .

How much will accommodation cost?

Here is a rough guide to average prices for a double room. This will vary with prices higher in popular areas at peak times

Upscale / Luxury – €210+ [USD $240+] per night Midrange / Boutique – €120-260 [USD $135-295] per night Budget / B&B – €70-130 [USD $80-150] per night Ultra budget / Hostel or shared room in AirBnB – €30-45 [USD $30-40] per night

Best accommodation sites

Our favorite sites for booking lodging are Booking.com and Plum Guide – between them, you’ll find a huge range of options from hotels and resorts to bed and breakfast, apartments and farm stay accommodation.

Plum Guide is particularly useful for longer stays in apartments and villas and if you’re traveling as a family and need some extra space. Use the code “Untold5” for a 5% discount here .

Other sites we use and recommend

• BookingsForYou – beautiful villas and apartments in Tuscany, Italian Lakes and Puglia – 5% for readers when you mention our site or code – UntoldItaly – when booking
• VRBO – has some great options for long stay villas and apartments, particularly on the Amalfi Coast
• Agriturismo.it – great for finding smaller farm stays but the booking engine is terrible. You can usually find the same properties on Booking.com
• Airbnb – we have used Airbnb on many occasions in Italy but are now finding better value and booking conditions on Booking.com and VRBO

LISTEN: To more accommodation options and what to look for in this podcast episode .

Further reading:

• Where to stay in Rome – a district by district guide to the best areas to stay
• Best places to stay in Florence – neighborhoods and areas best suited to your trip
• Where to stay in Venice – a neighborhood and area guide
• Where to stay in Milan – best areas, places and hotels

READ: Our Italy accommodation guide .

Transport while in Italy

As a general rule, if you are traveling between cities and major towns then the best way to travel around Italy is by train. If you want to explore the countryside and small villages you will need to rent a car.

When you are mapping out distances to travel between destinations use Google maps or Rome2Rio .

Train travel in Italy

Trains in Italy are modern and efficient. Fast speed services link the major cities and regional trains connect smaller towns and villages. Two major train networks operate throughout Italy – Italo and Trenitalia .

You should book in advance for high speed intercity services where seats are allocated. If you purchase non-flexible tickets you can make significant savings with advance bookings. They are not required on regional services.

READ: Our Complete guide to train travel in Italy .

Recommended train booking sites – Omio and The Trainline

You can book directly with the Italian operators or an easier way is with:

Omio – compare train times and prices across both Trenitalia and Italo schedules and keep your ticket details on their handy app. Click here to search for rail tickets on Omio

The Trainline is a similar service to Omio offering schedules, pricing and booking for train companies in Italy and Europe. They also have a useful app and great instructions in English. Click here to search for rail tickets on The Trainline

High speed train intercity travel times on popular routes

Rome to Florence – 1 hour 30 minutes Rome to Naples – 1 hour 15 minutes Rome to Milan – 3 hours Rome to Venice – 4 hours Florence to Venice – 2 hours Florence to Milan – 2 hours

Car rental in Italy

One of the best ways to see the smaller towns and countryside in Italy is to rent a car and take to the open road. Driving in Italy is quite straightforward. You just need to do some forward planning and use your common sense. Here are some tips to

• You are required to carry an International Drivers Permit – these can be arranged in your home country at minimal cost
• Standard transmission on cars is manual or stick shift. If you want to rent an automatic car expect to pay extra, if you can find one available
• Rent the smallest car you can to fit you and your luggage – roads are often narrow and you don’t want to get stuck!
• Heavy fines apply if you enter ZTL zones or historic districts where driving is not allowed

We use both Car Rental by booking.com  and AutoEurope to find the best car rental deals in Italy including one way options. They both search international and local providers so you get a wide variety of choice and there is 24/7 support if you need it. AutoEurope is usually your best option if you want a one way rental.

Click here to search for car rentals in Italy with Car Rental by booking.com .

READ: Our guide to Renting a car in Italy .

Internal flights

If you want to visit the islands of Sicily or Sardinia, or travel very long distances, flying makes the most sense.

Check on Skyscanner  or  Google flights  for routes and prices. Remember to set alerts for those routes you want to fly and book early for flights in the summer months.

READ: Our guide to all transportation in Italy .

Step 6 – Book Attractions, tours and activities

Major attractions.

The major cities of Italy – Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan – are some of the busiest cities for tourists in the world. And most visitors want to spend time at their famous attractions

We strongly advise you to prebook advance skip-the-line tickets for the following attractions – the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Uffizi Gallery and Doge’s Palace. Otherwise, you could spend precious vacation hours standing in lines to enter these sites. Note – in winter months booking in advance is not as necessary.

We have given you the official booking sites and an alternative for approved ticket partners should you have trouble using the official site – unfortunately, that happens a lot! The direct sites are usually cheaper but the partner sites are generally more user friendly. Always check the terms and conditions of your purchase, particularly in relation to changes and refunds. GetYourGuide has a very easy cancelation policy which in many cases allows cancelation with refunds up to 24 hours prior to departure.

• Colosseum – official ticket site OR buy Colosseum tickets on Get Your Guide
• Vatican Museums – official ticket site OR buy Vatican Museum tickets on Get Your Guide
• Omnia pass – Colosseum + Vatican + one other museum + hop on, hop off bus – click here for details
• Uffizi Gallery – official ticket site OR buy Uffizi tickets on Get Your Guide
• ‘David’ statue [Accademia Gallery] – official ticket site OR buy Accademia tickets on Get Your Guide
• Duomo roof climb – official ticket site OR buy Dome climb tickets on Get Your Guide
• Doge’s Palace  – official ticket site OR buy Doge’s palace tickets on Get Your Guide
• San Marco basilica  – official skip the line tickets OR buy a tour of San Marco including tickets on Get Your Guide
• ‘Last Supper’ painting – official ticket site OR buy Last Supper tickets on Get Your Guide
• Duomo rooftop  – official ticket site OR buy Duomo tickets on Get Your Guide

READ: Our full review of Get Your Guide .

If you want to learn about the sites you are visiting then we recommend a group day tour. We prefer small group or private tours where you learn about the culture and history of the places you are visiting. It’s so much more fun than reading plaques and you are also able to ask questions.

So make sure to build in a couple of tours when you are planning a trip to Italy.

Our favorite small group tour companies are Take Walks (formerly Walks of Italy) and Liv Tours  and we prefer With Locals for private tours. Both offer very well designed and engaging tours of the major sights in Italy as well as interesting food and cultural tours.

• Take Walks have a longstanding reputation for excellent service, groups under 20 people and guaranteed departures. So if you are the only person booked on a tour it will still go ahead. We recently enjoyed our Colosseum at night tour and day trip to Tuscany with them
• Liv Tours – family run Italian company offering true small group tours of 6 people or less. All of their tours use expert guides who will help you fall in love with Italian history, culture, and food. Tours include a popular golf cart tour of Rome’s highlights and their fascinating Women’s history tours
• With Locals offer great value private tours. You choose from a series of set itineraries and guides in cities across Italy. There are tours focused on history, food, culture and other themes or they can be customized them for your group. We tried their 10 Tastes of Naples recently and it was lots of fun. They also have great options for families
• Eating Europe – food tour specialists who will ensure you discover the best local dishes

Save 5% on Liv Tours with code – ‘untold italy’ >> click here to browse tours

• Rome: A 3 Day Itinerary
• The best tours in Rome
• Unmissable day trips from Florence
• Day trip from Rome to Pompeii
• Best tours of the Vatican
• Tickets and tours for the Colosseum
• Rome’s best food tours

Activities and experiences

Seeing the sights of Italy is always a treat but you’ll also love immersing yourself in Italian culture. These days you can choose from a wide range of experiences and activities. From food and wine tours, to football matches, concerts and exploring the countryside by vintage car, there are memorable experiences to suit you.

Recommended experiences

• Cooking class with Nonna Nerina near Rome – Grandma Nerina teaches you how to make fresh pasta and welcomes you into her home. If you can’t wait until you get to Italy to do this she also does online classes
•   Capri boat trip –  small group on a private boat means a slower pace and more time to see the island. You can read what to expect on this day trip here

Our favorite companies for searching for interesting and unique things to do in Italy are:

• Cookly – cooking class and food and wine experiences like truffle hunting from small operators across Italy
• Get Your Guide – has the biggest listing of tours and experiences

Step 7 – Get ready for departure

Organize your money and credit card.

The local currency in Italy is the € Euro.

You do not need to carry too much cash when you are there. Credit and debit cards VISA and Mastercard are widely accepted while American Express and Diners Club are not as popular. You may want to consider a foreign currency card like the Wise Mastercard where you can convert Euros easily and cheaply from your US dollar, Australian dollar or Canadian dollar accounts (plus many other currencies)

Be aware of foreign currency charges and ATM withdrawal fees applied to your account when you are abroad. You may want to review the cards you are taking with you prior to your trip. We recommend that you take two – one as a back up for emergencies. And inform your bank before you go. Sometimes they can be overzealous and place a block on your card if they see unusual activity.

Book airport transfers

Planning your arrival in Italy is recommended. Most of the airports are a fair way out from the city center – and in the case of Venice, in the middle of a lagoon!

Compare different transfer services on Suntransfers – a company that specializes in transfer options from major airports. They have options to suit all budgets and prices for coach, mini bus, private car and limo services.

Rome – transfers from Fiumicino airport

Taxis are fine to take in Rome. There is a set rate into the center of €48 and the ride takes around 45 minutes. Or, if you would prefer to be met at the airport you can pre-book a transfer. A transfer is the best option if you are traveling with more than 2 people and have several items of luggage. We recommend:

• Welcome Pickups – available 24/7, a private car transfer means you are met at the arrivals hall and will take between 30 minutes and one hour door-to-door.
• Suntransfers – offers a wide range of vehicles for groups of all sizes. Transfers can be canceled up to 48 hours in advance with no penalty.

Another popular way to transfer into Rome is to take the Leonardo Express train . This non-stop service between Fiumicino and Rome Termini (the main station) takes 32 minutes. Trains depart every half hour from 6:08 to 23:23, and the cost is €14. You can purchase tickets at the station on the day. Unless you are staying close to Termini you will then need to get a taxi to your accommodation.

The cheapest transfer option – this bus goes direct from the airport to Termini – €6-7 one way.

READ: Our full article on Rome airport transfers .

Venice transfers

The water bus company Alilaguna runs shuttles every 15 -30 minutes in peak season to and from the airport and the islands on the lagoon. This bus stops at San Marco and Rialto as well as some other secondary stops. The fare is €8 one way €15 return and the journey takes 1½ hours – you can book online here

A private boat transfer or shared transfer in a water taxi is the fastest (and most glamorous) way to transfer to your accommodation in Venice. Journey times and prices depend on the number of people in your party and exclusivity. A direct private transfer to the airport takes around 45 minutes.

• Private transfer – around €200 for 6 people – book here
• Shared water taxi transfer – around €32 per person – book here

You can also take a taxi (cost €25) or express airport bus to Piazzale Roma (cost €8) and then take a vaporetto (water bus) or walk your hotel/accommodation. A one way trip on the ferry costs €7 per person and is valid for 60 minutes.

READ: Our full article on Venice airport transfers .

Florence transfers from Florence airport

Florence airport is very close to the city center and a 15 minute taxi ride away. There is also an airport bus that takes around 20 minutes.   A 20 minute tram ride takes you to the main Santa Maria Novella train station and costs €1.50.

Florence transfers from Pisa airport

Many people fly to Pisa to reach Florence as it is a larger airport. If you arrive during the day take the PisaMover train to Pisa Centrale train station – journey time 5 minutes. Then take a train to Florence. Starts at 6.00 am and the last train departs at midnight and it costs €5.00.

On our last visit we arranged a transfer with Suntransfers as we arrived too late for the last train. There is also a coach transfer option.

Amalfi Coast or Sorrento transfers from Naples airport or train station

We recommend organizing a private transfer for this journey. The train, ferry and bus via Sorrento can take 4 hours while a car service is around 1.5 hours. You can compare different services on Suntransfers – a site specializing in ground transportation.

You may find sites or groups where specific drivers are recommended. We do not recommend booking a driver this way for safety reasons – how do you know that the person recommending the driver is reputable, let alone the driver? And also for practical reasons – small operators may not have capacity or availability.

Plan how to access the internet

Consider how you will access the internet on your trip. You may be happy to disconnect and use paper or offline maps however many of us need internet access.

Italy has high speed internet and there are many options to stay connected depending on your needs. If you use minimal data and are happy to use offline maps and guides then you should be able to get by using wifi at your hotel or accommodation. Do not expect wifi to be available in restaurants and cafes because in Italy restaurants are for eating.

If you plan to use wifi make sure to turn off international data roaming before your trip to avoid unpleasant bill surprises.

Paid internet options

• Use your provider’s roaming plan – usually very expensive and slow speeds if coming from outside Europe
• Local SIM – purchase a tourist SIM before your depart or when you arrive that has enough data for map navigation and research. Italian provider TIM comes highly recommended and there are outlets at the airports and train stations
• Portable wifi device – connect multiple devices to high speed internet for reasonable prices. We use and recommend Solis Wifi (Get 10% off with our code – UNTOLDM )

READ: Our full guide to Cellphones and getting online in Italy (SIMs, wifi and more) .

Packing for your Italy trip

The key to packing for Italy is to pack the minimum that you need. Many people like to take carry-on luggage only for their trips. This is a great way to travel as you will find it much easier managing trains, cobblestones and stairs that are a feature of travel in Italy.

But, most of us find that a challenge, so try to stick to a medium bag per person plus one carry on item. Large suitcases are not a good idea. You will also thank yourself if you consider your footwear carefully. Three comfortable pairs will see you through most trips.

Note – We have a complete packing guide coming soon.

LISTEN: to packing strategies in this podcast episode .

Must have items for your trip

• Luggage – get the size right with our guide to the best luggage for Italy
• Untold Italy travel planners – one page checklists of the must see sights, restaurants and gelato bars in Italy’s most popular places
• Collapsible water bottle – stay hydrated and fill up at free water fountains all over Italy
• Camera – for your vacation snaps. We recommend lightweight mirrorless models like these ones
• Packing cubes – these make packing, organizing your luggage and unpacking so easy. We love them!
• Power cube – don’t bring lots of bulky converters. This one has 3 USB ports
• Battery pack – keep all your devices charged
• Plug adapter – you will need one!
• Face masks – for your safety and you may be required to wear one indoors
• Hand sanitizer wipes – to keep germs at bay

READ: Our Complete packing guide for Italy .

Get started and plan your Italy trip now!

We hope you now have more confidence to start planning your trip to Italy. This will no doubt be a trip that you’ll remember and cherish for years to come. And, like many of us, you may find it sparks a passion to return to bella Italia again and again.

Latest Italy Travel Podcasts and Articles

Can you travel to italy – latest travel information [april 2024], visiting italy in may – reasons to go and what to expect, episode #216: 10 reasons we love italy’s umbria region, visiting italy in april – reasons to go and what to expect, episode #215: discover regional italy without a car, episode #210: travel smart to italy – your guide to new regulations and important dates, how to use your cellphone in italy, venice tourist tax – latest information on the new access pass for venice, planning a trip to italy.

We love travel in Italy and sharing our knowledge. Read our Italy trip planning guide or join our FREE Italy travel planning community . Our 115,000+ members are happy to answer questions about your itinerary, how to get from place to place, the best places to stay and fun things to do.

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How to plan a trip to Italy

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 05.02.2024

​Radiating vitality from its natty north to its stylish southern heel, there are plenty of reasons Italy attracts a remarkable range of traveller types. Given its fabulous food, sun-soaked coastline, picture-perfect panoramas, and all those extraordinary ancient sites, it’s no wonder Italy sparks a desire to return. But how do you plan a perfect trip to Italy? There’s simply too much to see — and fall in love with — during a single trip, and planning a stay in Italy can be overwhelming.

Step 1 – Best time to go and budget

Step 2 - decide where to go in italy, step 3 - pre-book accommodation and attractions, step 4 – get ready for departure, step 5 - plan your italy itinerary, step 6 - leave time to seize the day, take a trip designed by local travel experts.

The question "how to plan a trip to Italy" is often related to weather and budget, so let's dive into this first.

• Best time to visit Italy

When it comes to visiting Italy timing is everything. The best time to visit largely depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience. If you seek pleasant weather, manageable crowds, and cost-effective travel, spring ( April and May ) and fall ( September and October ) are the best times to visit Italy . Since these are known as the shoulder months, you're likely to enjoy a milder climate, fewer tourists, and more affordable accommodations. Conversely, peak season, from June to August , sees a spike in temperature, crowded tourist spots, and higher prices. However, there are a few key times to avoid, such as Easter Week and around Christmas when Italy becomes very busy and prices soar.

Remember though, the best time to visit Italy is when it suits your schedule and your interests  

How much will it cost?

When it comes to costs, it varies greatly depending on where you go, when you go, how you travel, and your personal preferences. Here are some average costs to guide your budgeting process.

• Lodging : A budget hotel for two people ranges from $50 to $150. For a mid-range hotel, expect $150-$350. Luxury hotels can start at $350 and go up from there.
• Food : Estimate around $25-$50 per person for city tours and add in your meals, you're looking at approximately $75-$100 per person/per day.
• Travel : For intercity travel, train fares vary from $15 to $60 depending on distance.
• Attractions : Prices for tourist spots can vary, but averaged out, expect to spend around $15-$25/day on entrance fees to museums, historical sites, etc.

Remember, these are just averages. You could spend less if you're traveling off-peak, cooking your own meals, or staying in more budget accommodations . You could also spend more if you're splurging on gourmet meals, staying in luxury hotels, or traveling extensively between cities.

Remember, similar to the best time to visit, the cost also depends on your personal preferences and style of travel

Riomaggiore of Cinque Terre, Italy © Shutterstock

That’s why we’ve created this guide to planning a trip to Italy - to help you make the most of your time in this perennial stunner. These simple steps will help you decide where and when to go, and where to stay. Crucially, we’ll also show you how you’ll stay connected while you’re away.

Best cities to visit

When it comes to cities in Italy, the options are boundless, each offering its own unique charm, history, cultures, and cuisines. Here are a few you might want to consider:

• Rome : Known as the 'Eternal City'. Rome's attractions include the iconic Colosseum , Palatino, Roman Forum , and Pantheon. Don't forget to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to Rome. For a real taste of Rome, visit Trastevere neighbourhood, known for its bohemian flare and delectable food.
• Venice : One of the most picturesque cities in the world, Venice is renowned for its charming canals, historic monuments, and ornate architecture. A gondola ride through its narrow canals or a walk through its labyrinth of winding streets is a must.
• Florence : Birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is an art lover's paradise. Be sure to visit the Uffizi Gallery and Florence's famous Duomo. The city is also known for its leather markets and rich cuisine.
• Naples : For the pizza lovers, Naples, the birthplace of pizza, is a must-visit. Excursions to the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, and down the scenic Amalfi Coast , are also highlights of the region.

Remember, this is just a taste of all that Italy. The country is littered with charming towns and bustling cities each holding its own unique attractions.

Best areas to visit

While Italy's cities are charming and packed with history, the northern regions of the country also offer stunning landscapes, charming towns, and unique experiences.

• Tuscany : Known for its stunning landscapes, art, history, and viticulture. Visit medieval towns like Siena, Pisa, and San Gimignano, and be sure to tour the vineyards for some of the best wine tastings you'll ever experience!
• Amalfi Coast : One of Italy's most breathtaking coastal regions. It's famous for its colorful towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, which are precariously perched on cliffs overlooking the sea.
• Cinque Terre : A string of five centuries-old seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. Its hiking trails and stunning views are a real treat for the eyes.
• Lake Como : Luxury, beauty, and tranquility all come together in Lake Como. The lake is surrounded by mountains and dotted with beautiful villas and resort villages.

These regions offer a unique experience, you can enjoy an urban experience in the morning and immerse yourself in the beautiful countryside or relax by a lake in the afternoon. Each region has its own distinct flavor and culture worth experiencing.

View of Montalcino town, Tuscany, Italy © Shutterstock

Best wine yards to visit

Italy, renowned for its world-class vineyards, offers a plethora of options for wine connoisseurs and novices alike. Here are some of the best regions to explore:

• Tuscany : Tuscany is home to some of the world's most notable wine regions. Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano are primarily made with Sangiovese grape whereas the Vernaccia grape is the basis of the white Vernaccia di San Gimignano. 
• Sicily : Sicily's Marsala wines are world-famous. The region's hot climate, fertile soil, and hilly terrain offer perfect conditions for producing a variety of wines.
• Veneto : Known for its Prosecco and Soave wines. The region offers splendid views over terraced vineyards, unique to the region.
• Barbagia, Sardinia : For a truly authentic experience, consider exploring the vineyards of Sardinia, the island's climate and rugged terrain make for some distinctive wines. 

When at these wineries, don't forget to pair the wines with some local cheeses and indulge in wine tours . Each vineyard has its unique methods of cultivation, fermentation, and aging wines that provide you an insight into the intricate and fascinating process of winemaking.

Best lakes to visit

Italy is famous for its picturesque lakes with awe-inspiring landscapes. Here are the ones worth a visit, including the breathtaking Dolomites.

• Lake Como : Surrounded by mountains and studded with charming villages and villas, Lake Como is a must-visit for its beauty and tranquillity. Celebrity spotting (such as George Clooney!) is also a fun activity on Como.
• Lake Garda : Italy's largest lake, Lake Garda, is home to charming medieval towns, thermal bath towns, vineyards, and the family-friendly Gardaland amusement park. The lake has a more rustic feel compared to Como. 
• Lake Maggiore : Visit the stunning Isole Borromee with their ornate palaces and lavish gardens. Also, it's less crowded than Como and Garda, making it a peaceful retreat. 

While each lake has its own unique charm, they all offer activities such as swimming, boating, and hiking along with exceptional hospitality. Choose a lakeside villa or hotel for maximum views and comfort.

Varenna old town in Como lake © Boris Stroujko/Shutterstock

Major attractions

Italy bursts with world-renowned historical sites and cultural landmarks. While you might not cover it all, ensure your Italy itinerary includes these major ones:

• Colosseum (Rome) : The iconic symbol of Imperial Rome, it's one of the best-preserved monuments of the Ancient world and provides an unparalleled insight into the life and times of ancient Rome.
• Vatican Museums (Vatican City) : Housing an extensive collection of art, sculpture, and cultural artifacts, the Vatican Museums are a triumph of human imagination and creativity. Also, visit the Sistine Chapel to marvel at Michelangelo's masterpiece ceiling.
• Pompeii (Naples) : Visit the ancient city of Pompeii, frozen in time since the catastrophic Vesuvius eruption of AD 79.
• Leaning Tower of Pisa ( Pisa ) : The famous leaning bell tower is a marvel of medieval engineering popularly known for its unintended tilt.
• The Venice Canals (Venice) : A gondola ride through these famous canals is an essential experience when visiting Venice.

Your experience isn't confined to these major landmarks. Italy is rich with cultural and historical splendors and even a short stroll down any street might lead you to a smaller, yet remarkable gem. [Insert images of the listed attractions].

Remember to pre-book your entrance tickets where possible to bypass lengthy lines and ensure a smooth visit.

Accommodation

Accommodation forms a crucial part of your travel planning. Italy offers a wide range of options from high-rise luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, and authentic agriturismo farm-stays. The choice depends on your budget, preferred location, and the kind of experience you seek.

• City Hotels : Major cities such as Rome, Florence, and Venice offer a multitude of options in various budgets. Websites like Booking.com are excellent for comparing rates and amenities, as well as for finding deals on hotels, bed and breakfasts, and apartments [Add screenshot of Booking.com interface].
• Bed and Breakfasts/Hostels : A comfortable and cost-effective choice, especially for solo travelers or those on a tight budget. Be ready for a homely, quaint experience and a chance to mingle with other travelers.
• Agriturismo or Farm Stays : Offered by Italian farmers as a way to supplement their income, these are very popular in Italy and range from budget to luxury. Besides providing accommodations, some also offer meals made from fresh farm produce. A unique way to enjoy Italy’s countryside [Insert image of an agriturismo].
• Apartments/Vacation Rentals : Ideal for family trips or a larger group of travelers. Websites like Airbnb and Plum Guide offer an extensive list, often cheaper than hotels and give you the freedom to cook your own meals if you wish [Add screenshot of Airbnb interface].

Remember to always check reviews before booking and take advantage of the flexible cancellation policies offered by many services. At some popular tourist locations, bookings can fill up quickly, so it’s wise to reserve your accommodation well in advance.

Check the best hotels in Italy here .

Aerial view Italy's famous medieval San Gimignano hill town © Shutterstock

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Italy tours

Italy's rich history and diverse landscapes make it a dream destination for (day) tours. They provide an excellent way to learn about the culture and history of the places you are visiting. Here are our top picks:

• Food tours : Delve into Italy's culinary delights with a food tour. Savor traditional dishes and learn about regional cuisines. These tours often include visits to local markets, cooking demonstrations, and tastings at renowned eateries.
• Senior tours : Tailored for comfort and accessibility, senior tours in Italy offer a blend of leisure and cultural immersion. These tours prioritize ease of travel, with guided visits to historical sites and scenic landscapes, ensuring a fulfilling experience without physical strain.
• Train tours : Experience the scenic beauty of Italy from the comfort of a train. These tours combine the romance of rail travel with the convenience of guided visits to iconic cities and hidden gems, all while traversing Italy's picturesque countryside.
• Wine tours : Explore Italy's renowned vineyards on a wine tour. Learn about wine-making traditions, visit esteemed wineries, and taste world-class wines. These tours often include guided tastings and insights into local viticulture, perfect for enthusiasts and novices alike.

Consider building a couple of these tours when planning your trip to Italy . Remember, tours using guidebooks fill up quickly during peak tourist seasons, so it's wise to book in advance. Of course, self-guided tours using our guide books or apps are another good option for those who prefer a self-paced experience.

Activities and experiences

Immersing yourself in Italian culture is part of the attraction. Here are some recommended experiences that vary from culinary tours to exploring the countryside:

• Road tripping: Explore Italy's diverse regions with a road trip adventure. Journey along the Amalfi Coast for stunning coastal views or through Tuscany’s vineyard-covered hills. Road trips offer the freedom to discover Italy’s hidden gems and picturesque landscapes at your own pace.
• Art and architecture exploration: Immerse yourself in Italy’s rich artistic heritage. Wander through world-famous museums, gaze at Renaissance masterpieces, and delve into ancient Roman ruins. This activity offers a deep dive into Italy's profound cultural and historical impact.
• Cycling adventures: Cycle through Italy’s scenic countryside, quaint villages, and along beautiful coastlines. Suitable for all skill levels, cycling adventures are an active way to engage with Italy’s landscapes and local culture.
• Boat excursions: Experience Italy from its captivating waterways. Glide in a Venetian gondola or cruise around the islands of Capri and Sicily. Boat excursions provide a unique perspective of Italy’s coastal beauty and maritime charm.
• Hiking: Traverse Italy's varied terrains on foot. Hike through the majestic Dolomites, the scenic trails of Cinque Terre, or historic pilgrimage routes. Hiking offers a perfect combination of natural splendor and cultural discovery.

Remember that while it's essential to have a well-planned travel itinerary, also leave room for spontaneity. This could be as simple as enjoying a cup of espresso in a quiet corner café or an unexpected detour into a local market. These unplanned moments often turn out to be the highlights of your trip.

View over the famous Village of Limone sul Garda, Italy © Shutterstock

Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Flower in Florence © Shutterstock

Get a credit card and budgetize

Getting a credit card that offers travel rewards can be highly beneficial for your trip to Italy. Look for cards with no foreign transaction fees, and good cash back or points systems. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Italy, while American Express and Diners Club may not be as popular.

In terms of budgeting, set up a daily budget covering all essential aspects like food, accommodation, travel, and activities. Decide what you want to splurge on and where to save. If you're on a tight budget, cooking your own meals and choosing more budget-friendly accommodation can help significantly reduce expenses.

Also, be aware of foreign currency charges and ATM withdrawal fees in Italy. Consider getting a foreign currency card like the Wise Mastercard where you can convert Euros easily and cheaply from your US, Australian or Canadian dollar accounts.

Lastly, ensure you keep some funds aside for unexpected expenses. Planning a budget beforehand ensures your trip runs smoothly, and you can enjoy your dream Italian vacation without the stress of unexpected costs.

Look for airport transfers

Arranging airport transfers in advance can save you time and stress upon arrival in Italy. Most Italian airports are located quite a distance from the city center, and public transportation might not always be convenient, especially if you're carrying heavy luggage or traveling in a group.

Consider car rental deals or comparing different transfer services like Suntransfers or Welcome Pickups . They offer several options from budget to luxury that suit different needs, including coach, mini bus, private cars, and limo services. The service ensures that someone will be waiting for you at arrivals, and will take you directly to your accommodation in the quickest and easiest way.

For example, to transfer from Rome’s Fiumicino airport into the city center, taxis offer a set rate of €$50 and the ride takes around 45 minutes. Or, if you're a group traveling with multiple items of luggage, a pre-booked transfer can be a better option

Stay connected

Once you've figured out your transportation and lodging for your trip to Italy, don't overlook another essential aspect: staying connected while abroad — conveniently and without spending a fortune.

Even if you've decided to avoid work emails during your vacation (which is great), having access to affordable data will definitely enhance your experience.

For starters, it'll make navigation a breeze and keep you connected with people back home. You'll likely also want to share live updates and photos of your journey. To do this, you need immediate data access.

You're probably already aware of these advantages, but may be concerned about the cost — nobody wants to spend excessively to stay connected while traveling. Fortunately, with an international SIM card or eSIM from SIMCorner , a trusted partner of Rough Guides, you don’t have to worry about high costs.

Thanks to partnerships with top telecom providers worldwide, SIMCorner offers products for every type of traveler, especially those heading to Italy.

For those tired of hidden fees and reluctant to commit long-term, SIMCorner's data plans and services are contract-free. This means you can use your SIM card or eSIM as needed, and put it on hold when not in use. It's that simple.

If you plan a trip to Italy, make sure to check the Old Town of San Leo © Shutterstock

How many days do you need in Italy?

The ideal length of a trip to Italy greatly depends on your travel desires and time constraints. For a decent first visit, aim for at least 7 to 10 days, which will let you cover the country's major cities such as Rome , Florence, and Venice with a day or two for exploring smaller towns.

If you're happy to move fast though, Italy's highlights could be covered on a 10-day whirlwind tour. This would give you a couple of days in Venice and Florence, a day each in Bologna, Pisa and Naples, and around three days in Rome.

If your time is limited to only 3-5 days, it's advised to choose one region or city to explore deeply, rather than rush through several destinations.

On the other hand, with a longer stay of around two weeks, you have the opportunity to see both the north and the south, and perhaps even squeeze in a visit to Sicily or Sardinia.

Keep in mind, these durations are just general guidelines. Elongating the stay will allow a deeper connection with the country, its culture, and its people. Your travel duration should cater to your interests, be it history, cuisine, art, or simply relaxation. Remember, Italy is a country filled with endless wonders and even a lifetime might not be enough to explore them all.

How to spend 5 days in Italy

If you only have five days in Italy , you may want to focus your trip on one or two destinations. For example, you could split your trip between Rome and Florence, spending three days in Rome and two in Florence. Here's how:

Day 1-3: Rome Immerse yourself in the history of the Eternal City. Visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Also, take a walk through St. Peter's Square, or take a tour of the Vatican Museums. Roam around Trastevere for an authentic Italian dinner.

Day 4-5: Florence Hop on a high-speed train to Florence. Enjoy Renaissance art at Uffizi Gallery, marvel at the view from Piazzale Michelangelo, and visit the Florence Cathedral. Dedicate half a day for a trip to Pisa or a Tuscan wine tour.

Remember, this plan for Italy travel planning offers a taste of Italy's rich culture and history within a short timeframe. Modify it as per your preferences. If you're more interested in slow-paced vacations, consider focusing just on Rome, exploring the city thoroughly, and embracing the local lifestyle.

Titus Arch and the Roman Colosseum in Rome, Italy as seen from the Palatine Hill © Shutterstock

How to spend 7 days in Italy

7 days in Italy is a wonderful amount of time to get a taste of Italy's treasures. For first-time visitors, a common itinerary is the classic trio of Rome, Florence, and Venice.

Day 1-3: Rome Spend the first few days exploring Rome's iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the Pantheon. Visit the Vatican City, marvelling at Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel.

Day 4-5: Florence Take a train to Florence. Spend a day exploring the city’s art history in Uffizi Gallery, climb the Duomo, and take a sunset stroll across the Ponte Vecchio.

Day 6-7: Venice Board a train to Venice. Visit St. Mark’s Square to see the Doge’s Palace, tour the Bell Tower, or visit the Rialto Market. Don’t forget to take a traditional gondola ride through the canals, for an authentic Venetian affair.

Remember, while it’s a whirlwind tour, this example itinerary offers an introduction to three utterly different and equally enchanting Italian cities. Be flexible with the plan and adjust it according to your interests and energy levels. Travelling should also include enjoying a gelato on a city square, sipping a cup of rich Italian espresso at a streetside café, and taking leisurely strolls soaking in the city’s atmosphere. 

How to spend 10 days in Italy

With 10 days in Italy you have more time to delve deeper into Italy's rich offerings. In addition to the must-see cities of Rome, Venice, and Florence, 10 days provide a sufficient window to explore additional cities, like:

• Rome (3 days) : Start by immersing yourself in the Eternal City's historical grandeur - from the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, to St. Peter's Square and the Vatican.
• Florence (2 days) : Head to the birthplace of the Renaissance, visit the Uffizi Gallery, Florence's iconic Duomo and savor Tuscan delights.
• Pisa (1 day) : Visit the remarkable Leaning Tower of Pisa and explore the surrounding area's historical sights.
• Venice (2 days) : Discover the unique city on water with its famous canals and gondolas. Visit St. Mark's Basilica and Doge’s Palace.
• Milan (2 days) : Conclude in Milan, Italy's fashion capital. Don't miss the Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci and visit the majestic Duomo.

These select destinations give you a comprehensive flavor of Italy’s diverse culture, history, and landscapes. And you'll still have some downtime for savoring the food, wine, and the Italian way of life. [Add corresponding pictures of the city's main attractions here]

Remember, regardless of how detailed your pre-planned itinerary is, leave room for the unexpected to fully experience La Dolce Vita (The Sweet Life)!

How to spend 14 days in Italy

With 14 days in Italy at your disposal, you can cover more ground and enjoy a more relaxed pace. This could allow you to explore beyond the traditional Rome-Florence-Venice triangle, and immerse yourself in Italy's enchanting landscapes, rich history, and vibrant local cultures. Here's a suggested itinerary with train itineraries:

• Rome (4 days) : Spend 4 days soaking in Rome's ancient sites and vibrant café culture.
• Florence (3 days) : Discover this cradle of the Renaissance, its art treasures, and its delightful food scene.
• Cinque Terre (2 days) : Experience the quaint colorful seaside villages perched along the rugged Italian Riviera coast.
• Pisa (1 day) : Visit the iconic Leaning Tower and nearby attractions.
• Venice (2 days) : Explore Venice's romantic canals, historic landmarks, and charming cafes.
• Milan (2 days) : End in Milan to witness its modern side – towering skyscrapers, international fashion scene, and iconic Milan Cathedral.

In this itinerary, along with Italy's cosmopolitan cities you also experience its hidden gems and its rustic, authentic charm. Whether you're strolling Rome's ancient streets or tasting fresh seafood in Cinque Terre, these two weeks will provide a taste of Italy's diversity, history, and irresistible allure.

Remember, a slower schedule can often result in a richer experience. Balance your itinerary with rest and relaxation, and allow time to savour Italy's culinary delights, and just people-watch in beautiful piazzas. Leave room for some spontaneity, and you'll find your travel memories are all the richer! 

You can't plan a trip to Italy, without adding Venice © Shutterstock

Don't overplan

One of the top mistakes people make while planning a trip to Italy is trying to fit in too much. While it's important to have an itinerary , don't fill every minute of your day with activities. Italy is best enjoyed at a slower pace, taking time to stroll through its cobblestone streets, sip an espresso at a sidewalk cafe, or linger over a delicious meal at a local trattoria.

It's also essential to be flexible. Perhaps you discover a picturesque spot perfect for a picnic that wasn't in your original plan, or you come across a charming street market that you would love to explore. Having some wiggle room in your itinerary allows you to seize these unexpected opportunities.

Finally, keep in mind that winding lanes and Google Maps often don’t mix. Allow extra time for getting lost - it’s part of the charm of traveling in Italy! You are on vacation after all, take time to enjoy, relax and let Italy slowly reveal itself to you.

Remember, the goal of the trip is to enjoy and experience Italy, not tick off a list of sites.

Plan some free days

In addition to structured activities and tours, you should always account for a few free days in your itineraries. These can be used for a wide variety of unscripted adventures such as:

• Exploring neighborhoods : Navigate through the winding streets of intriguing districts like Trastevere in Rome or Navigli in Milan.
• Enjoying local cuisine : Delve deeper into Italy's culinary scene. Maybe attend a cooking class or explore local markets to sample regional specialties.
• People watching : There's nothing quite like spending an afternoon relaxing in a beautiful piazza, eating gelato, and watching the world go by. This can easily turn into a highlight of your trip!

These free days give you the chance to dive deep into Italian life and culture, catch your breath, and savor the moments of your journey. They also give you the buffer needed if an attraction was unexpectedly closed or weather was harsh on a day with outdoor activities planned.

Remember, sometimes the most memorable moments emerge when there is no agenda at all!

Vernazza in Cinque Terre ©Shutterstock

Planning your Italy trip? Let our local experts help

Take a trip designed by local travel experts speaks to the heart of an authentic Italian adventure. Here's why choosing a trip curated by local experts elevates your Italian experience:

• Personalized itineraries: Our local travel experts craft itineraries that align with your interests and preferences. Whether you're an art aficionado, a food lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, your trip will be tailored to your passions, ensuring a deeply personal and fulfilling experience.
• Insider knowledge: Local experts possess invaluable insider knowledge. They guide you to hidden gems and authentic experiences that typical tourists might miss. This means dining at off-the-beaten-path trattorias, exploring lesser-known historical sites, and engaging in local traditions.
• Efficient planning: Navigating a foreign country can be daunting. Local experts streamline your trip, handling logistics like transportation, accommodations, and bookings. This efficient planning removes stress, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey.
• Cultural immersion: A trip designed by locals immerses you in Italian culture. You gain insights into the local way of life, participate in traditional activities, and engage with the community. This cultural immersion fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of Italy.
• Support and safety:** Traveling with the backing of local experts ensures you have support throughout your trip. They provide valuable advice, assist in case of emergencies, and ensure your safety, offering peace of mind as you explore.

In essence, a trip designed by local travel experts transforms your Italian vacation into an unforgettable, authentic, and hassle-free experience, enriching your journey beyond the ordinary.

Travel advice for Italy

To make the most of your Italy trip, here are a few tried-and-tested tips:

• Avoid peak season : Beginner travelers might want to avoid July and August, when Italy tends to get hot, crowded, and expensive.
• Public transportation : Train travel is highly efficient and cost-effective in Italy. Enjoy the scenery and save on car rental and parking fees.
• Water : It's safe to drink tap water in Italy, saving you money on bottled water.
• Tipping : Service charge is generally included in your restaurant bill, so tipping isn’t necessary but appreciated. A tip of one to three Euros or rounding off the bill is common.
• Dress code for churches : When visiting the numerous beautiful churches in Italy, it's appreciated to cover your shoulders and knees.
• Eat like a Local : Trying local food is half the fun of travel. Enjoy hearty Italian meals and make sure to try regional dishes.
• Safety : Italy is generally safe, but pickpocketing remains an issue. As always, it’s important to remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions, particularly in crowded areas.

Remember, travel destinations are about breaking away from the hustle of everyday life, discovering new cultures, cuisines, and people, and creating lasting memories. [Images depicting local food, people at a public transport station, and some safety signs should be spread throughout this section].

Enjoy your trip and say "Ciao" to Italy on our behalf. Buon Viaggio (Safe Travels)!

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Italy

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How to plan a trip to Italy – a step by step guide

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

Welcome! My name is Katy and ever since I first visited 20 years ago I have been plotting my next trip to Italy. From its historic cities to the mountains, lakes and coast, I fell in love with this beautiful country and want to help you do the same.

Planning a trip to Italy is one of my favorite things to do (I’ve been there more than 25 times!) so we created this guide to help you plan and book your trip with ease. We hope you find our step by step guide on how to plan a trip to Italy useful. 

What's in this article

When to go to Italy

Passports and visas, itineraries and planning, travel booking timelines, accommodation in italy, tickets, tours and attractions, airport and ground transfers, money and budget, internet access, travel insurance, packing for your trip, travel with kids in italy, italy trip planning done.

The best time to visit Italy is when it suits you and your schedule. However, you should be aware of a few seasonal variations:

• Italy is one of the world’s most popular destinations and is very busy (and more expensive) at peak periods – from May to September
• Summers can be very hot (especially in the south) and winters cold with ski resorts open in the northern alpine regions
• August is the busiest month with Italians and people from all over Europe on vacation. Coastal and lake areas are very busy with visitors
• Easter is a major holiday in Italy – expect demand for rail travel and accommodation to increase

For this reason we like to visit Italy in the shoulder months – April/May and September/October when the weather is sunny and mild, crowds are manageable and you can find great value flight and accommodation deals.

How to get there

Flying direct (or with a single stop) to Italy from most places in the world is easy. Most visitors fly into Rome Fiumicino [Leonardo da Vinci](FCO) international airport but you can also easily fly into Milan Malpensa  (MXP) or Venice Marco Polo  (VCE) airports from major hubs around the world.

There are many other airports throughout the country that can be accessed within Italy and Europe.

FREE ITALY TRIP PLANNING CHECKLIST:  CLICK HERE TO GET YOURS. NOW

Best flight deals to Italy

We use a combination of Skyscanner , CheapoAir and Google flights to source the best flight deals for Italy.

• Skyscanner – portal where you can view cheapest days and routes to fly and set alerts for price drops
• CheapoAir – uncovers the best deals on first class flights around the world
• Google flights – great for checking schedules and airline routes

To find the best deals, set up alerts on Skyscanner for the month you wish to travel and wait for price drops. Be prepared to be a little flexible on dates and stopovers. It is often cheaper to fly into Milan rather than Rome but that is most useful for northern Italy itineraries.

Tip – always use an incognito browser window to search for flight deals. Prices are amended up for users known to be searching for specific dates and times

Arriving by train from other cities in Europe

If you are traveling within Europe, train travel is easy with links to major Italian cities – Milan, Rome, Florence and Venice – from other capitals in Europe. Read our guide to train travel in Italy or Seat 61 is another great resource for planning train travel within Europe.

Bus travel to Italy

If you’re on a tight budget and traveling within Europe, then you might want to consider coming to Italy by bus. Low cost operator Flixbus covers 1,200 destinations in 26 countries.

Train and bus bookings

Omio is a useful site for booking a combination of train, bus and air travel within Europe

READ:  Best booking sites for travel to Italy

Citizens of the United States, Australia, Canada and New Zealand can enter Italy and stay up to 90 days without a visa within an 180 day period. You must have 6 months validity on your passport.

All other nationalities should check this Italian government site that will walk you through whether a visa is required for your visit.

European Union and UK citizens can travel with photo identification. 

Please note – this information is subject to change and it is always best to check with your local foreign office for the latest advice on travel to Italy.

• United States – click here
• Australia – click here
• United Kingdom – click here
• Canada – click here

Where to go

Probably the hardest decision you need to make is which places you would like to visit. This is a very difficult task for many of us and it is a challenge for me to this day.

The most popular places to visit in Italy are listed below.

• Major cities – Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan and Naples
• Tuscany – large region known for hilltop towns, wineries and beautiful countryside
• Cinque Terre – 5 spectacular villages that hug the sides of cliffs on the Italian Riviera
• Amalfi Coast – picturesque coastal region near Naples – Sorrento, Positano, Capri
• Northern Italian lakes – scenic lakes close to alpine mountain ranges

As a general rule, for a 3-5 day trip choose one destination – a city or area. If you have a week to 10 days then 1-3 places in either the north OR south of Italy. For a 2 week trip you could cover 3-4 places and see both north and south.

Try not to pack too much in. It’s easy to underestimate transit times and getting in and out of airports and train stations.

Suggested itineraries

Planning your Italy itinerary is one of the most important job in the trip planning process. For their first trip to Italy, many people will choose to start their journey in Rome and visit Florence and Venice. This 10 day Italy itinerary covers that route and includes detailed instructions on how to make the most of your time in Italy. 

Alternative 10 day itineraries

• Rome + Amalfi Coast – Rome [4 nights], Amalfi Coast/Naples/Pompeii/Capri [5 nights]
• Rome + Florence and Tuscany – Rome [4 nights], Florence [3 nights], Siena [2 nights]
• Venice, Milan, Lake Como + Florence  – Venice [3 nights], Milan [1 night], Lake Como [2 nights], Florence [2 nights]
• READ: Sample Northern and Southern Italy itineraries
• Sicily – deserves 2 weeks! – click for highlights and hidden gems

City itineraries

Rome – a 5 day itinerary that can be adapted for more or less days – click here to read Florence – suggestions for 1,2 and 3 days in the Renaissance city – click to read Venice  – things to do and itineraries for 1,2 or 3 days in the lagoon city – read here Milan – explore Milan, fashion forward, fun and the most modern of all the Italian cities – click to read

Recommended group package tours in Italy

Package tours of Italy can be a fantastic way to avoid the stress of planning your own trip. They are also great if you would like some company along the way. Here is a quick summary of popular tours in Italy by well known brands. 

One of the most popular tour companies on the planet, Trafalgar has a broad range of itineraries to choose from in Italy. Appealing to the 50+ age group, travel is mainly by coach and you can expect an emphasis on culture and history. Trafalgar has worked hard to include local experiences such as wine tastings and unique stays into its itineraries as well as time to discover destinations at leisure.

Tour group sizes are between 40-45 passengers and the general standard of hotels is 4 star.

Top Italy tours by  Trafalgar

• Best of Italy – 13 day itinerary visiting Rome, Sorrento, Florence, Venice and more – more information
• Great Italian cities – classic itinerary covering Rome, Florence and Venice in 10 days – click for details
• Best of the Italian lakes – Como, Maggiore, Garda – which will be your favorite? – click here for details

Intrepid Travel

We like the tours offered by Intrepid Travel because they strike the balance between showing you highlights of a destination and allowing time for exploration on your own. Their premium brand Peregrine has some interesting hiking tours of the Cinque Terre and Amalfi Coast.

Group sizes average around 10 so you get personal attention when you need it. We also love that Intrepid has a commitment to responsible travel and leads the way in promoting animal welfare.

Top tours of Italy by Intrepid and Peregrine

• Best of Italy – 15 days covering Rome, Florence, Venice, Cinque Terre and more – click here for details
• Cinque Terre walking tour – 8 days walking the spectacular coastal villages – more information
• Italy real food adventure – 8 days of feasting in Venice, Tuscany and Rome – more details

Even as independent travelers we like to browse Tourradar – a market place for tours where you can browse hundreds of package tours by different operators, and by date. Then filter by your interests and age group and read detailed reviews.

There are various levels of support offered from fully organized tours to independent self drive or train itineraries.

BROWSE: All Italy tours on Tourradar

Top tours in Italy found on Tourradar

• Highlights of Italy – 8 day train tour through Milan, Venice, Florence, Pisa, Rome – click for more info
• 3 Nights Venice, 2 Nights Florence & 5 Nights Rome – a self guided tour – click here for details
• Self guided walking tour of Tuscany – 8 days of fresh air, wine and views – click here for details

Recommended guidebooks

We plan trips using a wide variety of sources. If you can, choose an Italy travel guide that is relevant for the region you are visiting as they are usually more detailed and useful. 

Our favourite general guidebooks for Italy are:

Lonely Planet – Our favorite practical guide, Lonely Planet, regularly updates guides for Italy | Florence and Tuscany | Venice and the Veneto | Naples, Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast | Italian Lakes | Sicily | Southern Italy

Rick Steves – America’s foremost authority on travel in Europe produces excellent practical guides and itineraries for Italy | Rome | Florence | Venice | Cinque Terre

DK Eyewitness Guides – we love the illustrations and cultural and historical insight in these guides. They are perfect for those of us who respond best to visual cues.

When should you book your travel, accommodation and tours in Italy?

As soon as possible is the straightforward answer when it comes to popular hotels, accommodation and tours especially for peak times in July and August. If you can, try to book 6-12 months in advance for popular areas such as the Amalfi Coast in summer.

Flight bookings will depend on where you are flying from. For long haul flights the best deals are generally found 6-12 months in advance while deals pop up regularly for travel within Europe.

Rail bookings can be made up to 4 months in advance on high speed intercity and standard intercity trains.

FREE ITALY TRIP PLANNING CHECKLIST:  CLICK HERE TO GET YOURS NOW

Choosing where to stay is an important part of planning your itinerary. Italy is well set up for tourists and you can expect the usual range of hotels and bed and breakfast accommodation as well as apartments and villas.

If you plan to spend any time in the country, consider staying at an agriturismo or farm stay – offered by Italian farmers who earn additional income by providing rooms and meals. This accommodation is very popular in Italy and ranges from budget to luxurious.

We’ve stayed in agriturismi (plural) with swimming pools, hammams and wine cellars and always try to build them into our itinerary. An added bonus is that the food served is farm fresh and generally excellent.

Accommodation costs

Here is a rough guide to help you plan your accommodation budget. Prices are average for a double room though this will vary with prices higher in popular areas at peak times

Upscale / Luxury – €200+ [USD $230+] per night Midrange / Boutique – €110-250 [USD $125-285] per night Budget / B&B – €60-120 [USD $70-140] per night Ultra budget / Hostel or shared room in AirBnB – €20-35 [USD $25-40] per night

Best accommodation sites

Our favorite site for booking lodging is Booking.com because it has a huge range of options from hotels and resorts to bed and breakfast, apartments and farm stay accommodation.

You can easily compare prices and amenities and take advantage of their generous cancelation policies to find the right accommodation for you. We’ve also found their concierge service helpful and get better deals because we use them regularly.

Other sites we use and recommend

• Plum Guide – visits and reviews the best Airbnb properties and provides detailed information on each one. Get 5% off with code – UNTOLD5
• VRBO – the best site for long stay villas and apartments – click here to browse VRBO
• AirBnB – for longer stays in apartments and villas – first time users can claim free credit here
• Tripadvisor – mainly to read reviews but you can sometimes find good deals on there too

Our guides on where to stay in Italy

We created these guides with specific recommendations of where to stay in the major tourist areas in Italy in response to questions from our readers and in our Italy Travel Planning Facebook Group .

• Florence – district and accommodation guide > click here
• Milan – district and accommodation guide > click here
• Amalfi Coast – towns and accommodation guide > click here
• Rome – accommodation near the Pantheon > click here ; near the Colosseum > click here and in Trastevere > click here ; accommodation near the Vatican City > click here
• Venice – coming soon

We also created a guide on how to find the right accommodation for your trip that includes a printable checklist > click here to access the article.

How to get around Italy

As a general rule, if you are traveling between cities and major towns then the best way to travel around Italy is by train. If you want to explore the countryside and small villages you will need to rent a car.

When you are mapping out distances to travel between destinations use Google maps or Rome2Rio is another useful site.

Train travel in Italy

The train system in Italy is modern and efficient with fast speed services linking the major cities and regional trains connecting smaller towns and villages. Two major train networks operate throughout Italy – Italo and TrenItalia .

Advance bookings are advised for high speed intercity services where seats are allocated. You can save money booking in advance if you purchase non-flexible tickets. You can book directly with these operators or an easier way is with:

Omio and Trainline compare train times and prices across both Trenitalia and Italo schedules and keep your ticket details on their handy app

SEARCH: rail tickets on Omio

High speed train intercity travel times on popular routes

• Rome to Florence – 1 hour 30 minutes
• Rome to Naples – 1 hour 15 minutes
• Rome to Milan – 3 hours
• Rome to Venice – 4 hours
• Florence to Venice – 2 hours
• Florence to Milan – 2 hours

READ: Guide to buying train tickets in Italy

Driving in Italy

With a bit of forward planning and common sense, renting a car and exploring the back roads of Italy is easy. We wrote a full guide to driving in Italy but here are our top tips:

• You are required to carry an International Drivers Permit – these can be arranged in your home country at minimal cost
• Standard transmission on cars is manual or stick shift. If you want to rent an automatic car expect to pay extra, if you can find one available
• Rent the smallest car you can to fit you and your luggage – roads are often narrow and you don’t want to get stuck!
• Heavy fines apply if you enter ZTL zones – historic districts where driving is not allowed

We use Car Rental by Booking.com  to find the best car rental deals in Italy including one way options. They search both international and local providers so you get a wide variety of choice and there is 24/7 support if you need it. 

SEARCH: car rental in Italy with Car Rental by Booking.com .

Internal flights

If you want to travel very long distances or to visit the islands of Sicily or Sardinia, flying makes the most sense.

Check on Skyscanner or Google Flights for routes and prices. Remember to set alerts for those routes you want to fly and book early for flights in the summer months.

We source and book tickets and tours via GetYourGuide  and  Viator .  They are tour and ticket aggregators so there is lots to choose from. I like the fact you can read reviews, book everything in the one place and keep your tickets and vouchers on their apps too. You can also pay in your own currency and with international credit cards which can be a challenge when using Italian websites.

We prefer GetYourGuide – you can read our review of GetYourGuide to find out why here

Tickets for major attractions

Rome, Florence and Venice are some of the busiest cities for tourists in the world thanks to their famous attractions – the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Uffizi Gallery and Doge’s Palace.

We have given you the official booking sites and an alternative for approved ticket partners should you have trouble using the official site – unfortunately that happens a lot! The direct sites are usually cheaper but the partner sites are generally more user friendly.

• Colosseum – official ticket site OR buy Colosseum tickets on Get Your Guide
• Vatican Museums – official ticket site OR buy Vatican Museum tickets on Get Your Guide
• Omnia pass – Colosseum + Vatican + one other museum + hop on, hop off bus – click here for details
• Uffizi Gallery – official ticket site OR buy Uffizi tickets on Get Your Guide
• ‘David’ statue [Accademia Gallery] – official ticket site OR buy Accademia tickets on Get Your Guide
• Doge’s Palace – official ticket site OR buy Doge’s palace tickets on Get Your Guide
• San Marco basilica – official skip the line tickets OR buy a tour of San Marco including tickets on Get Your Guide
• ‘Last Supper’ painting – official ticket site OR buy Last Supper tickets on Get Your Guide
• Duomo rooftop – official ticket site OR buy Duomo tickets on Get Your Guide

Day tours in Italy

We love doing guided tours . Not those huge group ones where you follow the flag waving guide around in a herd trying to keep up. No, we especially like small group and food tours where you learn and discover all about the culture and history of the places we visit. Plus it’s so much more fun than reading plaques and you get to ask questions.

So make sure to build in a couple of tours when you are planning a trip to Italy.

Our favorite small group tour companies are Take Walks (formerly Walks of Italy) and Liv Tours . Both offer very well designed and engaging tours of the major sights in Italy as well as interesting food and cultural tours.

• Take Walks have a longstanding reputation for excellent service, groups under 20 people and guaranteed departures. So if you are the only person booked on a tour it will still go ahead. We recently enjoyed our Colosseum at night tour and day trip to Tuscany with them 
• We highly recommend the fun team at Liv Tours .  They offer interesting very small group (6 people or less) and private tours throughout Italy including late and early entry to the Colosseum and Vatican. Get 5% off their tours with code – UNTOLDITALY

Other Recommended Day Tours by destination

• Rome in day – tour includes Vatican and Colosseum – great if you have limited time > click for details
• Colosseum virtual reality tour – brings the arena to life with 3D effects and sound > more information
• Rome by night – discover the beauty of the Eternal City after dark on this 2 hour tour > click for details
• Vespa tour – pretend you’re Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday on this vintage vespa tour > more details  

READ: Our guide to the best day tours in Rome

• Uffizi Gallery + Palazzo Vecchio – 3 hour combined tour of the city’s must see sights > more information
• Florence Dome Climb – climb the famous dome for spectacular views of Florence > more details
• A day in Tuscany – full day tour to San Gimignano and Siena from Florence > click for more info

READ: Our guide to the best day trips from Florence

• Doge’s Palace and Basilica tour – 2 hour tour of the major attractions in Venice > more information
• Burano, Murano and Torcello – half day outer islands of the lagoon escorted tour > click for details
• Street food tour – discover Venetian cicchetti and visit the famous Rialto market > click for details

Naples, Sorrento and Amalfi Coast

• Boat trip from Sorrento to Capri – one of the highlights of my life! Full day tour > click for details
• Pompeii and Amalfi Coast tour from Naples – full day tour if you are short on time > more info
• Amalfi Coast – small group tour to Positano, Amalfi and Ravello from Sorrento > more information

READ: How to take a boat tour to magical Capri

Recommended experiences in Italy

Sightseeing, soaking up the atmosphere and visiting major monuments (plus eating!) will take up most of your time on your trip to Italy. However, if you have a little more time, we recommend seeking out unique Italian experiences that are sure to be the highlight of your trip.

Food festivals are so much fun. We stumbled on a sagra (food festival) near Lake Como and had a great time tasting all the local dishes. On another trip we managed to be in Florence during the finale of the  Gelato Festival (how did that happen I wonder?) and were able to taste some incredible flavours.

You can check this site for information on food festival dates in Italy.

Wine tastings and tours are popular activities in Tuscany and there is a great selection to choose from on Viator – click here to view  

If you want to recreate the delicious dishes you tasted on your trip, why not take a cooking class . We learned so much from our class and market tour in Florence and enjoy making fresh pasta at home. 

>> Click the links to browse cooking classes in Rome , Florence and Amalfi Coast

For those who love football or soccer there could be no greater thrill than watching a football match in an Italian stadium. You’ll need to book tickets well in advance and we found the best site to do just that – click here to book Italian Serie A tickets.

No matter where you fly into Italy you will need to transfer from the airport to your accommodation and vice versa. Most of the airports are a fair way out from the city center – and in the case of Venice, in the middle of a lagoon! So preplanning your arrival is advised.

You can compare different transfer services on Suntransfers – a company that specializes in transfer options from major airports. They have options to suit all budgets and prices for coach, mini bus, private car and limo services. Welcome Pickups is a similar option with great service we use regularly.

Rome – transfers from Fiumicino airport

Taxis are fine, there is a set rate into Rome of €50 and the ride takes around 45 minutes. Or, if you’re like me, and need some comfort when you arrive you can pre-book a transfer on Suntransfers or Welcome Pickups

This would also be the best option if you are traveling with more than 2 people and have several items of luggage.

A popular way to get into Rome is the Leonardo Express train – a non-stop service between Fiumicino and Rome Termini (the main station). Trains depart every half hour from 6:23 to 23:23, and the trip takes 32 minutes. The cost is €14. Unless you are saying close by you will then need to get a taxi to your accommodation.

The cheapest transfer option – this bus goes direct from the airport to Termini – €7 one way 

READ: Rome airport transfers : How to get from the airport to the city center in Rome

Venice transfers

The water bus company Alilaguna runs regular shuttles (every 15 -30 minutes in peak season) to and from the islands on the lagoon and the airport stopping at San Marco and Rialto (main stops). The fare is €15 one way or €27 return and the journey takes 1½ hours – you can book online here  

For a glamorous arrival hire a private boat transfer or shared transfer in a water taxi – journey times and prices increase depending on number of people and exclusivity. A direct private transfer to the airport takes around 45 minutes.

• Private transfer – around €200 for 6 people – book here  
• Shared water taxi transfer – around €32 per person – book here  

You can also take a taxi or express airport bus to Piazzale Roma and then take a vaporetto (ferry) or walk your hotel/accommodation. A one way trip on the ferry costs €10 per person and is valid for 60 minutes.

The taxi will cost around €30 and the bus will cost around €10 and take around half an hour – for advance bus bookings (recommended in summer) go here  

 READ: Venice airport transfers: How to get to and from Venice from the airport

Florence transfers from Florence airport

Florence airport is very close to the city center and a 15 minute taxi ride or 20 minute tram ride away. There is also an airport bus that takes around 20 minutes – more information

Florence transfers from Pisa airport

Many people fly to Pisa to reach Florence as it is a larger airport. If you arrive during the day take the PisaMover train to Pisa Centrale train station – journey time 5 minutes. Then take a train to Florence. The last train departs at 21.30

On our last visit we arranged a transfer with Suntransfers as we arrived too late for the last train. There is also a coach transfer option.

Amalfi Coast transfers from Naples airport or train station

We recommend hiring a driver. The train, ferry and bus via Sorrento can take 4 hours while a car service is around 1.5 hours. You can compare different services on Suntransfers – a site specializing in ground transportation. 

You may find sites or groups where specific drivers are recommended. I do NOT recommend booking a driver this way for safety reasons – how do you know that the person recommending the driver is reputable, let alone the driver? And also for practical reasons – small operators may not have capacity or availability.

 READ: How to get from Naples to Sorrento

The local currency in Italy is the € Euro.

There is no need to carry too much cash when you are in Italy. Credit and debit cards VISA and Mastercard are widely accepted while American Express is not as popular.

Be aware of foreign currency charges and ATM withdrawal fees applied to your account when you are abroad. You may want to review the cards you are taking with you prior to your trip. We always take two – one as a back up for emergencies. 

Expected costs

Apart from major transport, accommodation and activity costs (eg custom tours and experiences) expect to spend around €30 – 50 per person per day on food and snacks. We allocate another €50 per adult for tours, tickets, day travel and other items. This is a generous budget and it is possible to travel much more cheaply in Italy.

Note – a tourist tax is collected at hotels and accommodation throughout Italy. The rate depends on the city, class of hotel and number of nights you are staying.

Have a good think about how much internet access you will need on your trip. Some people are happy to disconnect and use paper or offline maps while others need that online connection.

Italy has high speed internet and there are many options to stay connected depending on your needs. If you use minimal data and are happy using offline maps and guides then you should be able to get by using wifi at your accommodation. It would be unusual to find accommodation that did not offer wifi. You still need to check though.

Do not expect wifi connections to be available in restaurants and cafes – in Italy restaurants are for eating.

Make sure to turn off international data roaming before your trip to avoid unpleasant surprises when you return.

If you have an unlocked phone you can purchase a tourist SIM before your depart or when you arrive that has enough data for map navigation and research – will not extend to streaming movies or any other heavy upload or download activity. I haven’t used it myself but this local SIM from Italian provider TIM comes highly recommended. 

READ: Our full guide to getting online in Italy (SIMs, wifi and more)

Portable wifi device

If, like me, you need to be online and connected throughout the day, you should consider renting or buying a portable wifi device like the Skyroam Solis . It connects to the local network in Italy and many countries around the world. You then buy day passes for $US 9 per day that give you unlimited data.

I’ve been testing out Skyroam and it offers fast speeds – at least 4G. You can connect up to 5 devices and it also acts as a battery charger. The battery itself lasts a day.

You just need to set it up before you depart on your trip and learn how to use it as it is not as straightforward as I would like. Even so, I like having my usual SIM in my phone and the data running separately.

Learn more about Skyroam Solis plus get 10% off with my code – UNTOLDM

It is a very good idea to purch travel insurance for Italy. Even if your home country has a health care agreement in place with the Italian government. These agreements do not cover emergency repatriation or trip cancelation so make sure you are covered well before you depart. 

READ: more information about travel insurance for your trip to Italy

What to pack will depend on the season and places you visit in Italy. We created a full packing guide with printable checklist that you can access on this page . It covers everything from seasonal capsule outfits to tech items and beauty need.

Absolute must have items for your trip

• Collapsible water bottle – stay hydrated and fill up at free water fountains all over Italy
• Camera – for your vacation snaps – I use an Olympus Pen – it’s lightweight and takes great photos
• Packing cubes – these make packing and unpacking so easy.I love them!
• Power cube – don’t bring lots of bulky converters. This one has 3 USB ports
• Battery pack – keep your phone and/or camera charged
• Converter – you will need one!

We think Italy is one of the best places in the world to travel with kids. Children are welcomed and enjoyed wherever you go. There are not too many challenges that you would not experience at home.

Probably the hardest thing we find is that we fend off many kind offers of sweets and treats on a daily basis from well meaning grandmas/nonnas on our trips. There is a limit to how much chocolate a 4 year old can eat!

Restaurants will feed your kids first so you can enjoy your meal later. It’s such a brilliant move, I have no idea why this doesn’t happen in most countries. At any venue you can always order a plain pasta with red sauce beloved by children world wide.

Kids travel at greatly reduced prices on Italian trains. Children under 4 ride free, no ticket required. Those under 15 can travel on the child rate on national trains and the child fare applies to children under 12 on regional trains.

If you are visiting museums and attractions such as the Vatican Museums and Uffizi Gallery we recommend hiring a guide that specializes in bringing these places alive for kids.

Our twins have been all over Italy with us. Their favorite city to visit is Venice – you can read our popular guide to Venice with kids here .

We hope you now feel confident to plan your Italy trip and are counting down the days until you leave. If you haven’t already done so we’d love you to join our Italy Travel Planning Facebook group where you can ask lots of questions and get advice on your planned itinerary.

We also have a regular newsletter with inspiration, tips and deals for your trip to Italy. You can sign up here  and we’ll send you our FREE Italy trip planning checklist .

Disclaimer –  Untold Morsels assists our readers with carefully chosen product and services recommendations that help make travel easier and more fun. If you click through and make a purchase on many of these items we may earn a commission. All opinions are our own – please read our  disclosure  page for more information.

The creator, writer and photographer behind Untold Morsels , Katy has been travelling and tasting the world since she was a teenager.

Now the proud mum of twins, she hopes they grow up to share her passions of great food, wine and travel. Favourite destination: Italy

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10 Day Trip to Italy: The Perfect Itinerary You Should Steal

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you buy or book through one of these links, I may earn a small commission .

Are you in the midst of planning your dream trip to Italy? Then get ready for beautiful villages, ancient ruins, delicious fresh food and wine, and amazing espresso. There’s a lot to see over a 10 day trip to Italy, and this itinerary will make sure you get the most out of your time.

Italy is one of the most magical places I’ve ever visited, and my sixth country.  I’ll never forget looking out the plane window as we descended into Rome. We were treated to stunning views of the Italian coastline, with little white boats dotting the intensely blue sea.

My husband and I are still talking about this trip because it was so mind-blowingly awesome, with some of our favorite memories together.  We reminisce on photos all the time, and pine to return to Italy as soon as we can. There is still so much in this country that we’ve yet to see.

With so much to explore in Italy, it can be difficult to condense the many worthy sights into one trip.  However, this classic 10 day Italy itinerary will help any first-timer experience the best that Italy has to offer.  Let’s get into it!

The Perfect 10 Day Italy Trip Itinerary

Here is a quick overview of this itinerary, which will take you through three regions of Italy, all with their own unique character. By the end of this trip, you’ll have gotten to experience the ancient city of Rome, the Ligurian Sea views of Cinque Terre, and the rolling hills and Renaissance history of Tuscany.

• Rome – 4 Days
• Cinque Terre – 3 Days
• Florence – 3 Days

Additionally, this 10 day Italy trip itinerary assumes you will be getting around Italy mostly by train, since a car is largely impractical in these destinations. This itinerary is detailed, but lengthy. Therefore, I’ve created the below table of contents so you can skip ahead.

Table of Contents

• Day 1: Rome – Settle In
• Day 2: Rome – Walking Tour
• Day 3: Rome – The Vatican
• Day 4: Rome – Ancient Sites
• Day 5: Cinque Terre – Settle In
• Day 6: Cinque Terre – Vernazza & Monterosso al Mare
• Day 7: Cinque Terre – High Trail to Manarola
• Day 8: Florence – Settle in & Food Tour
• Day 9: Florence – Explore the City
• Day 10: Florence – Chianti Classico Day Trip
• Fly Home: Head to FLR Airport

Best Time to Visit Italy

10 day italy trip stop #1: rome, day 1: rome.

This will be your arrival day in Rome, aka The Eternal City. We took a red-eye flight the night before in order to arrive by noon on our first day. This gave us the full day to settle in, and start working through our jet lag.

Arrival in Rome

You will arrive into Fiumicino (FCO), or Leonardo da Vinci Airport. First, you’ll need to clear customs, which could take a while depending on the day. Then you can proceed to picking up any checked bags, though we personally prefer carry-on only.

After that, I recommend finding an ATM, as having cash on hand is useful in Italy. We took out about €200 to start. I do not recommend bringing USD (or other currency) to convert on arrival, as currency exchange counters are notorious for unfavorable rates.

Leonardo Express

Next, it’s time to navigate to the Rome city center via the Leonardo Express :

• First you will need to buy your tickets, which cost €14 per person. Purchase them online here , or at a kiosk in the airport. Note that the kiosks often have lines and can be slow.
• To find the train platform, follow well-marked airport signs with a train icon or that say “stazione” or “TRENI”.
• Take the Leonardo Express to Termini Station in Rome (Roma Termini). The train leaves approximately every 15 minutes, and the ride takes about 32 minutes. 

Once you arrive into Termini Station, take the metro from there to your lodging. We booked an Airbnb near the Spanish Steps, so we took Line A to the Spagna stop (click here for maps).

The metro is very easy to use, as trains run frequently and tickets can be purchased in any metro station, tobacco shops, or newsstand kiosks. One way tickets cost €1.50 each, and there are also various multi-use passes available, explained here .

By now, you should be navigating to your lodging, whether that means taking the metro, bus, walking, or grabbing a taxi.  As we walked from Spagna, I’ll never forget the sweltering heat and buildings shaded in sunburnt yellows, oranges, and reds emerging all around me. The beautiful fountain at the foot of the Spanish Steps was looking very inviting.

Once you get settled in, you may want to pick up a few simple grocery items to have on hand.  This is very helpful with staying on budget during your trip, even if just breakfast or lunch.  We were able to find a small grocery store that was only about a five minute walk from our place.

If possible, I recommend staying somewhere with a terrace and Nespresso machine.  These items were instrumental in taking my Rome experience to the next level.

Head Out for Food

One thing you can do your first night is grab dinner, and perhaps go for an evening walk.  We were exhausted from our long travel day, so chose not to veer too far from our lodging. However, we did find some adorable street dining just a few streets over from the Spanish Steps for cacio e pepe, which is essentially Italian mac and cheese.

Travel Savvy Tip

Take advantage of your jetlag.  If you find yourself restless in the wee hours of the morning, set out for an early walk.  Getting up early your first day helps get your sleep back on schedule sooner.

One of the best things my husband and I ever did was go out for a morning 6 am walk in Rome.  There is nothing like seeing the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain when they are completely deserted, save for a few photographers.  We were lucky to be staying within a ten minute walk of both places.

Day 2: Rome

It’s time to hit the ground running for your first full day in Rome.  First of all, read my previous jet lag tip and consider heading out for an early walk.  It’s magical to see Rome’s most iconic sights before they become super crowded.

Visit a Cafe

Next, eat some breakfast at your place or head to a café.  Or do both.  I’m pretty sure we ate an espresso or cappuccino along with a cornetto (Italian croissant) every day, regardless of any other breakfast we had.  Did I mention you might gain weight while you’re in Italy?

After you’ve fueled up some, head out for a morning sightseeing walk.  This could be a guided tour or simply self-guided.  A guided tour like this one will help you get a better understanding of your surroundings, while self-guided is free and will give you more freedom and flexibility.

If you prefer to explore on your own, here is a beautiful route I’ve mapped out that will show you the highlights of Rome (link to Part 1 and Part 2 ).  This walk is one of our best memories, and didn’t cost a dime! Bring your camera and expect to spend two to four hours exploring, depending on your pace.

Here is a list of some of the amazing sights you’ll see:

• Begin at Piazza Barberini
• Climb up the Spanish Steps
• Check out the view over Piazza del Popolo from Terrazza del Pincio
• Stroll charming Via Margutta
• Explore the Pantheon
• View the fountains in Piazza Navona
• Check out the markets stalls in Campo de’ Fiori
• View the River Tiber from 15th century bridge Ponte Sisto
• Take a selfie after throwing a coin into the Trevi Fountain

After your walk, take an afternoon rest at your lodging and eat some lunch. 

You’ll run into fresh water fountains (nasoni) all around Rome.  These are the result of aqueducts built by the ancient Romans. 

The water is fresh from the mountains near Rome and is tested regularly, so it’s perfectly safe to drink!  We carried a water bottle around with us as we explored, and constantly filled up when we’d run into a fountain.

Borghese Gallery

At 5 pm, check out the Borghese Gallery, which has an impressive collection of sculptures and paintings housed in a 17th century villa. Reservations are required, and the museum is open every day except Monday from 9 am to 7 pm.  Tickets for a two-hour time slot cost €15 and can be purchased here .

Finish off your day with pizza. We ate ours at Da Francesco , which is a cozy space in an awesome location near Piazza Navona. We loved the opportunity to see the fountains of this gorgeous piazza lit up at night when we were done.

Day 3: Rome

By day 3 of your 10 day trip to Italy, hopefully your jetlag is improving. Mine and my husband’s was pretty bad, and it took about three or four days to stop waking up full of energy at 2 am. I was thankful for the great espresso all around me!

Tour The Vatican

The Vatican is an absolute must on any 10 day Italy itinerary. I knew next to nothing about it before our trip, but during our visit I learned a ton about how the Vatican was once a seat of power that greatly influenced western civilization.

Of the 110 acres and 1,400 rooms, here are some of the highlights you will see:

• Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel
• St. Peter’s Basilica
• St.  Peter’s Square
• Gallery of the Maps (my favorite)

You can easily reach Vatican City from Rome via the metro.  You will need to take Line A to the Ottaviano stop. Many tour groups meet nearby the station, or you can simply walk five minutes to the Vatican Museums.

In summer, the Vatican can see as many as 20,000 visitors per day.  Therefore, it’s imperative to book your tickets in advance, so you do not have to wait in a very long line outside.  Tickets can be purchased here for €17 .

The Vatican is also enormous. A guided tour will help you cut through the crowds and focus your attention so you understand what you’re looking at. We did this 4-hour tour that, while tiring, did our visit justice and allowed us to see the Sistine Chapel before the worst of the crowds.

As The Vatican is a religious site, you must dress appropriately, or your entrance could be denied. If you cover your shoulders and knees and avoid wearing controversial graphic tees, you should be fine.

Additionally, the Vatican is closed on Sundays, except the last Sunday of the month, which is a free day. While this will save you money, the crowds will be terrible and could dampen your experience. All that body heat in tight rooms can make things feel very stuffy and claustrophobic.

Our Vatican tour took a lot out of us and we were still jetlagged, so we had a low key afternoon on Day 3. This left us nice and refreshed to go back out for dinner around 7 pm.

Do note that many restaurants prefer you make reservations. However, you can often make them at the last minute and walk-ins are sometimes still accepted. In Rome, dinner is generally served between 7 pm and 11 pm.

Be careful not to accidentally end up at a tourist trap, which are generally found near popular tourist sites and tend to have blown-up menus showing pictures of food at the entrance.  These spots are not only inauthentic, but also overpriced. Moving even one street over from a major tourist spot can mean better dining options.

We enjoyed dining in the Piazza Navona neighborhood so much the first night, that we had to return the next evening. This time we chose Saltimbocca, which had beautiful street dining and served authentic pasta and seafood dishes.

If you are trying to save money and aren’t especially particular about wine, then always order a caraffa of the house wine.  There is usually a red and white selection, and they are always good!  I didn’t have a single bad glass of wine throughout our 10 day Italy trip.

Day 4: Rome

Ancient Rome

Spend your last day exploring different aspects of ancient Rome.  Plan to spend a total of two to four hours at the following:

• Colosseum: Once a site of gladiator fights and other public displays
• Roman Forum: Center of public life in ancient Rome
• Palatine Hill: Site of ancient aristocratic settlements

All three of these sites are covered under one €16 ticket, which can be bought here . You will need to reserve a time slot when booking your ticket, and a €2 presale fee will also apply.

In peak summer season, it’s best to arrive early in the morning for cooler air and smaller crowds. All of these sights are outdoors, and the hot midday sun can turn wandering through fascinating ruins into a chore.

After a few hours of sightseeing, take a gelato break – the colosseum is virtually surrounded by gelaterias.

Capitoline Museums

In the evening, if you have energy left from your Rome adventures, head back out to the Capitoline Museums.  Sitting on top of the Capitoline Hill, this museum features an expansive collection of paintings and sculptures, many of which came from the city of Rome. The museum is open every day until 7:30 pm, and tickets to the various exhibitions can be purchased here . 

Full disclosure, we actually skipped this sight because we were exhausted from 3 days of wandering around Rome. We were ready for some wine, and were super excited for our dinner reservations.

Atmospheric Dinner

Hands down, the place my husband and I remember the most from our 10 day Italy trip is Old Bear. This rustic spot is located on a quiet street, and has the perfect ambiance for your last evening in Rome. We were glad to have made reservations the night before, since many people were waiting a long time in the street for a table to open up.

I will never forget my delicious pumpkin lasagna – and I’m not even a lasagna person! Unfortunately, I have no photos because I was face first in my food.

There are a few money saving tricks for sightseeing in Rome. The first is considering whether the Roma Pass may be worth it for you. There are options for 48 and 72 hour periods, and could save you money depending on how many included sights you wish to see, and how often you’ll use public transportation.

Additionally, some museums do a free day each month.  Check their respective websites to see if any dates fall during your trip.  That said, free days also bring big crowds and long waits, which might not be ideal if you’re tight on time.

10 Day Italy Trip Stop #2: Cinque Terre

Day 5: Cinque Terre

The next iconic stop on your 10 day Italy trip is Liguria, home to the colorful Cinque Terre villages that seemingly pop out from the vineyard covered hillsides. To reach Cinque Terre from Rome, take the train from Roma Termini station to La Spezia Centrale. La Spezia is a larger town located south of Cinque Terre, and the jumping point for all five villages (listed out below from south to north):

• Riomaggiore
• Monterosso al Mare

From La Spezia Centrale, hop on the Cinque Terre Express (€4) to the village you are staying in. We picked Corniglia, which is the middle village and third stop.  If you also choose Corniglia, be aware that reaching this particular village additionally requires climbing over 300 steps or grabbing a shuttle bus (€1.50).

Once you’re settled, do some exploring around your village before finding dinner.  These five towns are tiny and easy to quickly see on foot, though some are more hilly than others.  This post provides more info about each village and advice on choosing where to stay.

Just keep in mind that no matter where you base yourself, you’ll still be able to easily visit the other four villages with a quick train ride.

Trains in Italy are often late.  Therefore, I recommend not purchasing tickets with tight connections.

In this instance, you could purchase your journey from Roma Termini to your Cinque Terre village on the Trenitalia website in one transaction. However, these connections are often twenty minutes or less, which isn’t ideal if your first train gets delayed.

As it is not more expensive to book each leg of the trip separately, I suggest waiting to purchase your Cinque Terre ticket until you arrive in La Spezia. These tickets are very easy to purchase at the ticket counter or machines right on site.

Day 6: Cinque Terre

The five villages of Cinque Terre are connected by hiking paths that offer some incredible views over the Ligurian Sea. You’d be hard pressed to find something like this anywhere else; therefore, it’s crucial to get out on the trails at least a little bit.

If you get tired or decide not to hike after all, the train will be there for you to fall back on, but the views are not nearly as good!

Hike to Vernazza

Today you will hike the Blue Path, or Cinque Terre’s most famous coastal trail, from Corniglia to Vernazza, and then finally onto Monterosso al Mare.  I suggest getting an early start, as the trails can get crowded by mid-afternoon. Note that this particular trail requires purchasing a pass for 7 euros, which you can buy online or right at the trailhead when it opens around 9 am.

If you aren’t staying in Corniglia, you will first need to take the train there in order to begin your hike (just prepare for those stairs, or grab the shuttle from the train station).  You could also hike in the other direction, starting in Monterosso al Mare. However, then you’ll miss the striking beach views when descending into Monterosso, as well as the chance to jump in the water at the end!

The first leg of the hike between Corniglia and Vernazza will take around 1.5 hours.  Be sure to take in the amazing views of Vernazza from the trail as you approach the village.  Once in Vernazza, take a break from hiking to do some exploring:

• Eat gelato at Gelateria Vernazza (the best gelato we ate in Cinque Terre)
• Grab a snack, such as a fried seafood cone
• Stroll around the harbor
• Pop into the Santa Margherita di Antiochia Church, which dates back to the 14th century
• Take the tunnel to Vernazza’s secluded rock beach

Hike to Monterosso al Mare

Next, continue your hike on the Blue Trail to Monterosso al Mare, which should take another 1.5 hours.  Monterosso al Mare is flatter than the other four villages, which makes it easier to explore.  It’s also known for having the nicest beach of the five villages. 

When you arrive, you’ll likely be exhausted and covered in sweat. Therefore, you must reward yourself with an aperol spritz and snack on the water, like we did at Nuovo Bar Eden.

Next it’s time to jump into the Ligurian Sea, after staring longingly at it from the trails all day. For €30, you can rent two chairs and an umbrella at Bagno Eden . 

This was definitely one of the highlights of my Cinque Terre experience, and I was glad we thought ahead and brought swimwear with us. When we were finally dry, Aaron and I took the train back to Corniglia to get ready for dinner.

You may need to purchase a Cinque Terre Card . If you plan to hike the Blue Trail, then you will at least need a Trekking Card (€7.50) for each day you plan to use that trail. The Trekking Card will also cover any shuttle buses.

You may also save money by purchasing the Treno Card instead of the Trekking Card. The price will depend on whether you need it for one (€16), two (€29) or three days (€41).

The Treno Card covers the Blue Path, unlimited train travel, and shuttle buses. It is worth purchasing for at least one day if you plan to hike the Blue Trail, take the train at least twice, and use a shuttle bus one time. Either card can be purchased online here .

Dinner in Riomaggiore

At the moment, the trail that leads to Riomaggiore from Manarola is closed due to landslides. Instead of hiking, you can give your legs a rest and take the train to Riomaggiore for dinner.

An excellent restaurant to check out is Bar e Vini a Pié de Ma .  I recommend making a reservation to ensure you get to experience this restaurant’s beautiful cliffside terrace.  There was so much ambiance during sunset, so we took our time sipping wine and ordering every course available.

Day 7: Cinque Terre

There is only one more village left to visit: Manarola. To reach it, you will hike in the opposite direction from Corniglia on a quiet, scenic trail.

Hike to Manarola

Today you’ll hike from Corniglia to Manarola via Volastra (trail #587 to #586 to #506).  This is a higher trail that will have you going up, up, up at the beginning, and then back down seemingly endless stairs at the end.  This hike takes around 2 to 2.5 hours to complete.

While the hike begins with a long climb up many stone steps, it eventually levels out and becomes quite shady and pleasant.  You are then rewarded with incredible sea views as you pass through charming vineyards. 

Once in Manarola, join the queue for lunch at Nessun Dorma to experience their famous views and meat and cheese platters. While on the waterfront path to the restaurant, be sure to turn around to take in the view of Manarola across the harbor. It is postcard perfect!

To be honest, my husband and I did not linger long in Manarola.  It was the busiest of the five villages, and being that it was the middle of the day, the crowds were bad.  If you wish to avoid crowds, it’s best to visit Manarola in the evening when the day trippers have left.

Dinner in Corniglia

For a memorable seafood dinner on your last night, make a reservation at A Cantina da Mananan in Corniglia.  This cozy space can only seat about 20 people at a time, so the tables will fill up.

Be prepared for plenty of ambiance, as well as plates featuring local fresh catches. We particularly enjoyed the taglierini ai frutti di mare.

10 Day Italy Trip Stop #3: Florence

Day 8: florence.

It’s time for the last leg of your 10 day Italy trip: Florence . This Tuscan city is the birthplace of the Renaissance, and today it continues to attract lovers of food, art, and architecture.

Florence is easily reached from Cinque Terre via train.  You will first need to grab the Cinque Terre Express from your village to La Spezia. From La Spezia, catch your next train to Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station, either directly or with one connection. Purchase your train tickets online in advance on Trenitalia or simply right at the gate.

Upon arrival, I highly recommend joining an evening food tour in Florence’s Oltrarno neighborhood. This was one of the best experiences of our entire 10 day Italy trip, and it also provided a nice intro to Florence. By the end of the tour, we were essentially served a full meal paired with delicious Italian wines.

We were grateful to receive some restaurant recommendations from our guide. Plus, my husband and I even returned to a few places from the tour the next day.

On the Oltrarno side of town, be sure to take note of the small wine windows on the facades of some buildings.  These were used during the Renaissance era for families to sell wine directly out of their homes.

Citizens would show up to the windows with their empty bottles, which the family would then fill for them.

Day 9: Florence

Explore florence.

On your first full day in Florence, hit the ground running with your sightseeing. It’s easy to explore the city center’s compact area in one busy day, whether on your own or with a guided tour .

Here are the top must-do’s in Florence:

• Accademia Gallery: This museum houses Michelangelo’s larger-than-life statue of David, along with several of his other unfinished sculptures.  In addition, you can also find an impressive collection of paintings and musical instruments. Purchase tickets online for €12.
• Ponte Vecchio: Cross this medieval bridge over the Arno River to the lesser-visited Oltrarno neighborhood. Ponte Vecchio has been lined with shops since the 13th century, and they help to give the bridge its unique appearance. The bridge is totally free to visit.
• Piazza del Duomo: This striking piazza tends to be teeming with tourists admiring the colorful marble facade of the Basilica of Santa Maria del Fiore.  This beautiful cathedral is famous for its imposing dome, created by Filippo Brunelleschi. The cathedral is free to visit, though you may need to wait in line. If you wish to climb the dome, visit the bell tower, or check out the museum, tickets can be purchased online here .
• Uffizi Gallery: This museum is housed in a Renaissance era building with stunning frescoed ceilings. Here, you can see several centuries worth of Renaissance art and other treasures, including significant works like Sandro Botticelli’s Birth of Venus. Tickets cost €20 and can be purchased online here .

While admission to some of the above places can be purchased on-site, I do not recommend doing this during busy tourist seasons. This largely encompasses the months of June through August, when long waits will eat up your day while you overheat in line.

Even worse – time slots could potentially fill up, meaning you miss the chance to visit entirely. For these reasons, it is best to book ahead online whenever possible.

Dinner in Florence

If you eat meat, you’re in luck because Florence restaurants typically include plenty of it on their menus. This evening, I recommend dining at a place known for Florence’s most famous dish: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, or Florentine Steak.

These steaks are huge cuts served on a bone, and are best shared with at least one other person. The cuts are also quite thick, but only cooked for a couple minutes on each side. This means you can expect your meat to be served rare/medium rare, or quite pink in the middle.

At the recommendation of our food tour guide, we dined at Trattoria 4 Leoni , a classy restaurant tucked into a tiny, quaint square in Oltrarno.

Be sure to save room for gelato after dinner across the square at Gelateria Della Passera. Alternatively, our scoops from Perché no!… were our favorite in Florence, and just a ten minute walk back across the Arno River.

Day 10: Florence

Piazza michelangelo.

Start your last day in Florence with a morning stroll to Oltrarno for some of the best scenery in town at Piazza Michelangelo.  This small park requires an uphill climb, but rewards you with panoramic views over all of Florence. From this perspective, you can appreciate just how giant the dome of Santa Maria del Fiore truly is, as it protrudes over the skyline.

If you can muster the energy, I highly recommend visiting Piazza Michelangelo at sunrise.  My husband and I woke up at 5:30 am to make the half hour journey, but it was so worth it.  There were few other people there with us, and the sunrise lighting was incredible.

Day Trip to Chianti Classico

On day two of your Florence stay, you could choose to remain in the city center and see additional sights that you missed on day one. However, I personally recommend getting out of town with a day trip to Chianti Classico.

A day trip to this wine region will give you a taste of the green rolling hills (and *ahem* great wine) that this region is known for.  Plus, some of the region’s great wineries can be found just forty minutes south of Florence. You could either rent a car to explore on your own, or join this small group tour .

This day trip is perfect for those seeking a change of pace from the crowds of Florence. Plus, you will get to experience the delicious red wines of Chianti Classico and admire some of Italy’s most gorgeous scenery. If exploring on your own, check out my post here for ideas on what to do in Chianti Classico .

Keep a lookout for the black rooster on each bottle of Chianti Classico wine. This symbol denotes wines that are authentically from this region and follow the correct blend of grapes.

Sigh…it had to end sometime. By now, you’ve done and seen so much during your 10 day Italy trip. Therefore, it’s time to head home and give your wallet and legs a break.

Make your way to the Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR or Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola).  There are several ways you could get there, whether by car, bus, or tram.

If you rented a car near the airport to visit Chianti Classico, then it will be really easy to drop the car off and shuttle from there. Otherwise, a taxi or the tram are the next easiest options.

The tram is the most cost effective, as tickets are €1.50 each way. To reach the airport, you will need to take Line T2 ( schedule here ) from the Unità tram stop in the Florence city center. The ride takes about twenty minutes, and trams run frequently, making several stops along the way.

It is also possible to grab the “Vola in Bus” as a direct shuttle to the Florence airport. Connections are available hourly between 10:00 am to 8:00 pm ( schedule here ) from the BUSITALIA Bus Station Via Santa Caterina da Siena, 17 (near the Santa Maria Novella train station). The journey costs €6, which can be paid in cash on the bus, and takes about twenty minutes.

You may be wondering when the best time is to do this 10 day Italy itinerary. While that will be personal for everyone, there are some months that are more ideal than others. 

For example, we did our 10 day Italy trip in mid-August, when the weather was sweltering and the crowds were thick. This is not the preferred month to visit Italy, but our dates were fixed since we were in Europe for a wedding.

Here is a brief rundown of what you can expect Italy to be like during different times of the year:

June to August

This is Italy’s busiest tourist season, with the highest prices and biggest crowds. Summer in Italy also tends to be very hot and dry, which can be great for the beach, but less ideal for lots of walking and sightseeing.

May or September

These two months are shoulder season. While still popular times to visit due to pleasantly warm weather, the crowds are not as bad as peak season. If you do not want to visit during the chilly low season, but fear battling terrible summer crowds, May and September are a happy medium.

October to April

These months are low season in Italy. They typically bring a little more rain and cooler temperatures, though the weather is generally still comfortable for walking around and exploring. For example, the average high in Rome for January and February is in the mid 50’s ( ° F). If you are trying to save money, or want to avoid long waits and have more sights to yourself, then low season is for you.

Are you excited yet? I certainly hope so, because this 10 day itinerary will ensure you have the perfect Italy trip. With friendly people, delicious wine and espresso, and fresh food everywhere, what’s not to love?  And don’t even get me started on the scenery…

With that said, I hope you have the magical experience that my husband and I had! This 10 day Italy itinerary will definitely have you on your way with planning a trip to remember.

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Plan Your Trip to Italy: 10 Top Itineraries

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Jan 31, 2022

Italy may not be a very big country, but it packs plenty of attractions into a small space. Even the most energetic tourist can't expect to see it all at once. You can see the very top highlights in one trip, or you can choose one region to explore in more depth.

When planning your Italy itinerary, remember that time you spend traveling from place to place is time you won't have to explore the fascinating corners of the places you stop. That's where Italy's fast and efficient (and on time) train network will help you.

But trains are not the best way to see and experience one of Italy's greatest charms–its small towns and villages, often perched on hilltops amid rolling landscapes of green fields and poppy-painted meadows. These breathe history, and in their atmospheric streets, you'll have a better chance to meet and interact with the country's greatest treasure–its people.

But there are plenty of options. In these itineraries, you'll find the most famous sights: the Tower of Pisa, the Grand Canal , the Colosseum , and others, but you'll also find suggestions for trips that take you into the very heart of Italy , and to places your friends have never seen. Plan your trip to Italy and discover the best places to visit with these top itineraries.

1. Venice, Florence & Rome by Train

2. the hill towns of tuscany by car, 3. milan to venice by train, 4. florence, prato, pistoia, lucca & pisa by train or bus, 5. driving tour of sicily, 6. the italian riviera by train and boat, 7. lake garda & the dolomite road driving tour, 8. driving tour through emilia-romagna from bologna to florence, 9. driving tour of sardinia, 10. driving tour of the aosta valley.

You could easily find enough attractions to spend a week in each of these cities, but you can see the highlights of all three in a well-planned week. The total travel time between Venice and Rome is only three and a half hours, so you can make the maximum use of your time. Of course, you'll want to see the main sights, but do allow some time to stroll through a neighborhood or two and sit in a café to soak up the atmosphere.

For example, after you've ridden the length of the Grand Canal and toured St. Mark's Square and the Doge's Palace , cross Rialto Bridge into the rabbit warren of narrow lanes in San Polo . Here, you'll find mask makers, tiny shops, and artisan studios, as well as churches filled with art and squares where neighborhood children play soccer.

In Rome, after the Colosseum and St. Peter's , explore the streets of the former ghetto of Trastevere , south of the Vatican . In Florence , follow your tours of the Pitti Palace art museums and gardens with a stroll through the Oltrarno neighborhood.

Longer is better, of course, and with a day or two to spare, you can either see more of each of the "Big Three," or you could make a stopover to see Bologna or hilltop Siena . The main train lines between the major cities go right through both. You don't need to stay overnight in either of these, as you can check your luggage at the train station while you tour. To make the most of your time, reserve tickets in advance to big attractions and museums, such as the Uffizi . This itinerary can be followed in either direction.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Venice

The hilltop towns in Tuscany are legendary for their beauty, their history, and the sheer romance of their settings. Many still retain the walls and castles that were their defense in the Middle Ages and Renaissance, and the art in their churches reflects Tuscany's wealth and power.

A car is the best and sometimes the only way to see many of these towns and the remote abbeys that are also part of Tuscany's heritage. You could easily spend a week exploring the Tuscan countryside and lingering to savor its village life, but you can see a good deal in four or five days.

Begin southwest of Florence in Volterra , whose historic center retains tower houses from the 12th and 13th centuries and which is still famous for its alabaster carving. San Gimignano is a short distance to the north, and one of the best-known of the Tuscan hill towns, mainly for its tall towers and the views across the surrounding countryside.

Colle di Val d'Elsa's old upper town still has some of its 13th-century walls, and the Palazzo Pretorio houses artifacts from a nearby Etruscan cemetery in its Museo Archeológico. Heading south, the little town of Monteriggioni sits inside a complete set of perfectly preserved 13th-century walls with 14 square towers; it's a favorite day trip from Siena .

Siena is worth a day or two stop, filled with medieval and Renaissance buildings and one of Tuscany's finest cathedrals. You'll find more Etruscan artifacts in the Museo Archeologico of Asciano , a fortified hill town south of Siena. The large Olivetan monastery of Monte Oliveto Maggiore was founded in 1313 and remains an active monastic community.

Montalcino is not very big, but it seems to have stepped out of the Middle Ages intact, inside walls built by the Sienese in 1361. Walk the well-preserved walls, visit rooms inside the fortress, and savor views of the Tuscan countryside from the castle.

Just to the south is the Benedictine Abbey of Sant'Ántimo , dating from at least 813, with a Romanesque church. Walled Montepulciano , one of the best known hill towns, shows Renaissance "modernization" to medieval architecture, reflecting the continuing power of its leading families even after other small towns here had declined.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Volterra

Although you can travel from Milan to Venice by train in two and a half hours, the same train route provides a made-to-order tour of some of northern Italy's most important art and historic attractions. The train line connects major Roman strongholds, centers of medieval and Renaissance culture, religious landmarks, and great centers of learning.

To spend a full day exploring each of these, with time to see the highlights of both Venice and Milan, you should plan at least 10 days, but you can pick from among the stops for a shorter trip. It's easy to see any of these cities without spending the night–you can check baggage at any train station.

Brescia , your first stop, preserves much of its Roman past, with parts of a temple, theater, and its forum still standing, and an exceptionally fine civic museum that includes a Roman villa with mosaic floors . If time allows, a stopover in Desenzano di Garda is a good chance to tour Lake Garda on the boats that leave regularly from the center of town. Highlights on the lake are nearby Sirmione , with a charming little castle and a Roman spa, and Malcesine, with a stone castle and beautiful views of the steep northern shores.

Verona's highlights include one of Italy's finest Roman arenas and a riverside castle–and of course Juliet's house (although the story is pure fiction). Vicenza's claim to fame–and a UNESCO designation–is the architecture of Andrea Palladio . Along with his masterpiece, Basilica Palladiana, are the Teatro Olimpico and the villa La Rotonda.

In Padua (Padova on the station signs), the attractions you shouldn't miss are the Shrine of St. Anthony and Giotto's incomparable frescoes in the Cappella degli Scrovegni (reserve ahead to be sure of admission). If you have time here or in Venice, make a side trip along the Brenta Canal to see the elegant villas and gardens. Leave extra time for Venice if you can, to savor La Dolce Vita at its best.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Milan

While you could spend a week just seeing all the Renaissance wonders of Florence , you can easily add Pisa and two or three other Tuscan towns in a week's vacation. Handily, they are strung like beads along a route you can follow by train or bus. Because the regional trains don't require seat reservations, you can buy your ticket at the station in Florence and travel any time you wish (be sure to stamp it in the machine on the platform before you board). These towns are only 15 to 45 minutes apart.

After at least two days in Florence, you can see the highlights of Prato and Pistoia easily in the same day. Prato's cathedral is illuminated by two 15th-century fresco cycles that show Filippo Lippi at the height of his artistry.

When you see Pistoia's medieval churches, you may wonder why it's not better known to tourists, but it remains blissfully serene, and you can tour its magnificent 13th-century Cattedrale di San Zeno almost in solitude. Don't miss the silver altar in the adjoining Cappella di San Iácopo or Andrea della Robbia's glazed terra-cotta relief above the central doorway. Across the piazza is a 14th-century baptistery faced with white and green marble.

Lucca , where you will want to stop over for at least a night, will charm you with its medieval towers, beautiful 12th-century church facades, Puccini music (he was born here), and the encircling walls. The tops of these walls are now a city park where locals stroll or ride their bicycles. Climb to the top of the Guinigi Tower for views down into an oval piazza that was once the interior of a Roman amphitheater.

You don't need anyone to tell you what is the main attraction in Pisa, but after you've climbed the Leaning Tower (reserve a timed entrance in advance), be sure to tour the magnificent cathedral and the baptistery, all located in the Campo dei Miracoli (Field of Miracles). The complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Florence

You can see some of the main cities of Sicily –Messina, Taormina, Catania, Syracuse, Trapani, and Palermo–by train, and several others by local bus. But you are tied to schedules more in tune to commuting locals than to tourists, and you'll have trouble getting to the historic sites in the countryside.

A driving tour around the perimeter of the island with stops to tour the major attractions could fill two weeks; you can compress it into a shorter time by skipping some places and seeing just the main features at each.

You'll want a day or two for Palermo and Monreale , where you won't need a car (or want to drive), before heading west to ancient Greek Segesta, with its theater and unfinished temple. Just beyond is the historic port of Trapani on its promontory, and hilltop Erice.

Continuing south along the coast, Marsala and Mazara del Vallo are worth seeing on the way to Selinunte , where you'll find one of the largest of all remaining Greek temples . One of the three most perfect temples in the ancient Greek world is farther along the south coast, at the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento .

From Agrigento, you can either continue along the coast or travel a loop of mountain roads inland to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Villa Romana del Casale in Enna , whose more than 3,500 square meters of mosaics place it high among the best-preserved villas anywhere in the Roman Empire.

Head back south and jump forward more than a millennium to Baroque Ragusa and Modica, before reaching Syracuse . In the archaeological area are one of the world's largest and best preserved Greek theaters, one of Italy's largest Roman amphitheaters , extensive catacombs, and an ancient quarry.

Stop in Catania to see its magnificent Baroque architecture. From pretty Taormina , you can drive up continental Europe's largest active volcano, Mt. Etna . Messina , the closest point to the Italian mainland, is usually overlooked, but it's worth seeing before heading back to Palermo along the scenic north coast, by way of Cefalu .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sicily

The Mediterranean coast from Sanremo to Portovenere is not just beautiful. It is studded with charming seaside resorts, fishing villages, historic attractions, and artistic treasures, all of them easy to reach by train or boat. If you are traveling with more than a backpack, you may need to choose several bases and backtrack a bit to explore, but that's no problem if you are on a rail pass.

The whole area around Portofino , for example, is easy to reach by boat from a base in Santa Margherita , and the Cinque Terre is easily explored from Portovenere or Sestri Levante. There are no left luggage facilities at any station between Genoa and La Spezia.

Begin near the French border in Sanremo, known as the flower center of the Riviera, where roses, jasmine, carnations, mimosa, and other fragrant flowers bloom on terraces. Rent a bicycle to reach some of the Riviera's best and least crowded beaches between Sanremo and San Lorenzo; most are free.

Genoa is perhaps Italy's most overlooked city, its streets lined with glorious palaces, and its churches and museums filled with priceless art treasures. You can take a ferry from here to the postcard harbor of Portofino and then a local boat to Santa Margherita to stroll its beachside promenade and bask in its gracious old-world atmosphere.

Sestri Levante makes a good base for exploring the Cinque Terre , or choose one of the five towns and hop between them by boat or train. The towns, along with Portovenere, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site . You can move on to Portovenere by train, but by far the most scenic way to arrive is by boat from one of the Cinque Terre towns, traveling beneath the magnificent cliffs and into one of Italy's prettiest harbors. Linger here to climb the narrow lanes, past 12th-century houses, to the citadel high above the town.

• Read More: Visiting the 5 Towns of the Cinque Terre: The Essential Guide

An itinerary for drivers who don't mind winding, steep mountain roads, this is a trip that largely avoids Autostrada traffic, traveling instead through small mountain villages in breathtaking settings. The route combines lovely lake scenery and Garda's holiday atmosphere with the breathtaking mountain views along the UNESCO World Heritage Strada Dolomiti, the Dolomite Road.

Begin in Verona , driving northwest to Peschiera, on the southern shore of Lake Garda , and make a side trip to chic little Sirmione , on a narrow peninsula jutting into the lake. A small but terribly picturesque castle guards its entrance, and at the end of its single street, you can take a tiny train to the ruins of a magnificent Roman villa overlooking the lake.

Return to Peschiera and drive up the east side of Lake Garda, stopping in lively little towns on the way, to Malcecsine . Pause here to climb its medieval streets to the castle and admire the soaring cliffs across the lake. Continue to Riva , worth an overnight stop to savor the lake's holiday vibe. Leave the lake, heading north to Arco, with its hilltop gardens, and continue along the verdant valley to Trento .

Pick up the Autostrada as far as Bolzano , a good stopping point to see the famed Ice Man and tour Castle Roncollo to see some of the finest surviving medieval court frescoes. You'll begin to notice the Germanic influences here, and as you climb through the Alpine villages of the Strada Dolomiti to Cortina d'Ampezzo .

More Alpine villages await on the trip south through the Cadore Valley to Vittorio Veneto , where you'll begin to notice the influence of this region's history as part of the Venetian Republic. Windows and doors around its pretty market square take on the graceful curves seen in the palazzi of Venice.

Conigliano is a charming town with a hilltop castle and excellent restaurants. From Conigliano, continue south past Treviso , where you can either go south to Venice or west through the walled towns of Castelfranco and Citadella to Vicenza . Stop here to tour at least one of Andrea Palladio's magnificent villas before returning to Verona.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions around Lake Garda

Few driving tours in Italy promise as much variety in a week as the scenic route from Bologna to Florence , along the Adriatic coast and over the Apennine mountains . A week allows a day or two for the medieval towers and beautiful churches of Bologna and time at the end for the Renaissance wonders of Florence. In between these are Roman sites, Europe's finest assemblage of Byzantine mosaics, miles of Adriatic beaches, a fishing village, castles, and the tiny independent republic of San Marino.

Head east from Bologna and stop in Faenza , known for its ceramics. Learn about this craft and see examples by Picasso and Matisse at the Museo delle Ceramiche before moving on to Ravenna . The UNESCO World Heritage Site includes eight churches, each lined with dazzling Byzantine mosaics , so a stopover in Ravenna means you won't have the sensory overload of trying to see them all in the same day.

Farther south along the coast is Cesenatico , whose old fishing harbor, surrounded by seafood restaurants, holds a floating museum of historic boats. Rimini's Roman past is well explained in historic signage as you walk its main street past excavations; the forum; the grand Porta Augusto; and the five-arched bridge, Ponte Tiberini. If the season is right, pause at one of Rimini's famed Adriatic beaches.

Head inland to nearby San Marino , leaving the car to ride the convenient shuttle to its historic center to see the frequent changing of the guard and its three mountaintop castles. Follow the old road, parallel to the Autostrada, through Cesena to Forli , a walled town where the Abbazia di San Mercuriale ( Abbey of San Mercuriale) in the main piazza is worth seeing for its stone carving. From here, follow SS67 over the Apennines to Florence.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bologna

Sardinia may be a part of Italy, but you'll soon feel as though you were in an entirely different country; it even has its own distinct cuisine. Spend at least a day in the capital city of Cagliari for a tour of the main sights, so you'll have some background in Sardinia's unique history and prehistory. To understand the strange nuraghe – the enigmatic stone towers that pepper the entire island–visit the museum in the citadel.

Drive north from Cagliari to see the best of these, Nuraghe su Nuraxi , then head west to Oristano to see the Phoenician/Carthaginian/Roman ruins of Tharros . Continue north to the beautiful town of Bosa , under its castle, and follow the scenic coastal drive to Alghero to walk its walls and stroll its atmospheric stone streets. Take a boat to the impressive sea caves of Grotta di Nettuno before traveling on through Sassari to castle-topped Castelsardo .

Follow the north coast to the fantastic rock formations of Santa Teresa di Gallura and take the ferry to the pink beaches of the Arcipelago di la Maddalena before reaching the Costa Smeralda . Arzachena is a good base here, perhaps at a country inn in the rock-studded mountains above town, as you explore the trendy resort villages and the outstanding prehistoric sites.

A drive south along the east coast brings you to Sardinia's wild and sparsely settled mountains, where a motorway will bring you to Nuoro . This is a good center for a day exploring the precipitous mountain roads to remote towns of the Barbagia . On the way back to Cagliari stop at Nuraghe Losa and the mysterious well of Santa Cristina .

You can do this route in eight days if you leave out some of the prehistoric sites, but 10 gives you more leisure to enjoy Sardinia's unique culture, along with giving you more time to spend in Cagliari with a side trip to the Phoenician city of Nora .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sardinia

From the royal splendor of Turin , the former Savoy capital, to the natural splendor of Europe's highest peaks, this route follows a valley that has been a major trade route since Roman times. You'll see a Roman theater in Aosta, a string of medieval castles, and the two most famous mountains in the Alps.

Although you could drive from Turin to Mont Blanc (Monte Blanco) in six hours, you should allow three days in addition to your time in Turin. While here, tour the Savoys' Royal Palace , and ride the elevator to the top of the Mole, where you can visit the outstanding cinema museum.

Head north from Turin on the E612 and E25 as far as Chatillion, then drive north to Breuil-Cervinia , at the foot of the Matterhorn . On the way, stop at Lago Blu for one of the best views of the mountain's dramatic south face. A cable car takes you from the village to higher viewpoints.

Back in Chatillion, SS 26 follows the river past a succession of villages. Each seems to have its own castle; the first you'll see is the impressive Castello Fénis , a pentagonal fortified manor with towers and battlements, surrounded by crenelated walls. Medieval frescoes decorate the balconies around the courtyard and chapel.

The valley's largest town is Aosta , an ancient Roman post that shows off its past in the well-preserved 1 st -century Arch of Augustus , Roman Theater , towers , and catacombs . The monastic complex of Sant'Orso and the cathedral's mosaics are also worth seeing. From Aosta, you can take a cable car to the 1800-meter summit of Pila for views of the valley and the Alps.

For a glimpse of later history, stop at Sarre Royal Castle , built in the early 18th century and later the hunting lodge of King of Italy Vittorio Emanuele II. A side trip into the Gran Paradiso National Park follows a scenic road from Aymavilles through meadows of wildflowers to the village of Cogne. Here, you'll find a botanical garden of Alpine flora, and hiking trails into the park.

Courmayeur is one of Europe's top ski resorts , a chic ensemble of chalets, boutiques, and cafés, with an interesting Alpine Museum and a 14 th -century church. Outside of ski season, the main attraction is the Skyway Monte Bianco , a set of 360-degree rotating cableways linking three stations ascending Mont Blanc, the highest at 3,466 meters.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More to See in Italy: While you're touring, you can follow your own special interests with our pages on the Most Beautiful Gardens in Italy and Top-Rated Beach Destinations in Italy . If you are traveling to Italy in winter, see our list of the Top Ski Resorts in Italy .

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How to plan a trip to Italy | a step-by-step guide

Last updated on March 18th, 2024.

It’s hard to know where to begin when planning a trip to Italy.

But with this helpful guide, I’ll be walking you through the step-by-step process of how to plan an Italy trip.

Full of practical information, use this Italy trip planner as your ultimate resource for crafting your vacation in Italy.

Italy travel tips (from a local)

Being a local living in the north of the country, puts me in a good position to write about how to plan a trip to Italy.

From travel tips to help with your Italy vacation planning to the best way to see Italy, this post will cover it all.

Keep track of your trip planning for Italy by downloading my FREE printable Italy trip planner .

How do I plan my first trip to Italy?

Planning a vacation to Italy can be overwhelming especially if you’re a first-time visitor. I find that one of the best vacationing in Italy tips is to make a list of the 3 ‘Ws’: When, Where, What.

When to go to Italy, where to go in Italy, and what kind of trip do you want to have.

This guide will help you plan, or begin brainstorming, your own Italy trip itinerary.

I said the same point about the 3 ‘Ws’ on my podcast episode with Wander to the Edge . It’s sound advice and is something I stand by.

Step 1: when to go to Italy and deciding your budget

Knowing when to go to Italy will help to get the ball rolling in the planning process.

Would you prefer to travel in Italy during summer when good weather is the norm, though much busier? Or would you prefer to escape the crowds and settle for cooler temperatures in winter or spring?

Personal circumstances and preferences will play a role in helping to answer this question. Ultimately, knowing which month/s that you’d like to travel to Italy will help to streamline the planning process.

Affordable times to visit Italy

A quieter, and more affordable, time to book a trip to Italy is between October and February. Certain places in Italy can be cheaper and you’ll notice a significant change in terms of cost and crowds.

The islands of Sicily and Sardinia , for example, still tend to be popular in October. With warm sunshine and still decent beach weather, both make an ideal fall Italy vacation.

Speaking from personal experience, early December is also a good time of the year to visit Sicily . Rather than booking a beach holiday, take advantage of the mild December temperatures and enjoy a Sicily city break.

The weather in Italy

Here’s a brief breakdown of what you can expect during the different seasons in Italy:

Winter : colder temperatures and grey skies in northern Italy and a higher chance of snow and heavy rain. Moderate temperatures in southern Italy, humid in places around Sicily. Higher chance of rainfall. Fewer crowds overall.

Spring : cool in many places across Italy, heavy rainfall in places. Moderate temperatures make it comfortable to visit cities, towns and villages. Mid-size crowds in popular destinations.

Summer : hot to extremely hot in many places across Italy (except in the far north of the country). Large crowds and services like hotels and flights are more expensive.

Fall : hot to warm temperatures in many parts of the country. Low rainfall and mid-size crowds. From November, some services in popular destinations may begin to close for the season.

I cover this topic in more detail in my guide on when is the best time to visit Italy . It provides a table of average temperatures in each season, some pros and cons and more local travel insight.

Times are a changing

One of the biggest misconceptions that people have about Italy is that the weather is always good here.

And as a local, I can tell you that it isn’t true.

Sure, the weather on average is better, and warmer, in Italy compared to many northern European countries. However, like the rest of the world, the weather here too has become unpredictable.

One example I can provide was our 3-day visit to Lake Como . Despite it being late July, the rain and thunderstorms were some of the worst we’d ever experienced.

Though we came prepared with rain jackets and an umbrella, it was far from the weather we’d expected for July in Italy.

However, there are times throughout the year where the weather will be less predictable. Take, for instance, a trip to Italy at Christmas (for example to Milan) or visiting Venice in winter .

From late November through to February or even early March, you’ll know to expect colder wintry weather. And because of this, you’ll be better prepared of what to expect when you plan a trip to Italy.

Italy weather travel tips

Check the weather forecast in Italy at least 1 week (everyday) before you travel.

Pack travel essentials for Italy and clothing for any weather eventuality. If visiting Italy in summer, be prepared for the chance of rain and the occasional cool evening.

Having a back-up plan is also a good idea when traveling in Italy.

Using the same example of Lake Como, something like a spa treatment would’ve made an ideal plan B. It would have been a relaxing, and dry, solution while waiting for the storm to pass.

How much will it cost to visit Italy?

The Italy trip cost will depend on your personal situation.

Younger solo travelers may have a more limited budget for Italy compared to a retired couple that has more disposable income.

Families with younger — and older — children, on the other hand, will require more planning for their Italian vacation.

For a family of 4, the average cost of a trip to Italy for 1 week can start from around €60 ($64/£53) per person each day. This is a rough estimate and won’t apply to all families of 4.

Which part of Italy you visit, the time of year, hotels and attractions you book will also play a role.

How to travel Italy on a budget

There are several ways to plan a trip to Italy on a budget. They include:

• visiting during the off-peak season (November to March)
• booking flights and accommodation in advance
• choosing B&Bs over hotels (depending on the destination)
• packing lunches for days out by visiting the bakeries and supermarkets
• sticking to one or two destinations

Cheaper in the south

As a (very) general rule of thumb, things tend to cost less in southern Italy.

To give an example, the cost of a family of 4 eating at a local pizzeria in the Campania region will be noticeably cheaper than in Veneto.

In comparison, regions like South Tyrol in northern Italy will cost considerably more (for everything). However, the services here tend to be of a higher quality and run more efficiently.

Step 2: decide where to go in Italy and the type of trip

Deciding where to go in Italy is probably my favorite part of planning a trip to Italy.

But, with so many beautiful cities, towns, villages and regions to see, the choice/s can be overwhelming.

This is why setting out a realistic itinerary is the best way to plan a trip to Italy.

Start researching different places in Italy

Start by making a list of the places in Italy that you want to see.

Have a map of Italy to hand so that you can see exactly where each place is located. This will also be useful for seeing the (rough) distances between each destination.

My travel guides on the best places to visit in Italy and the best things to do in Italy can help kick start your research. Both are presented in a simple format and are full of ideas that will suit all types of travelers.

Decide what kind of trip you want

The last of the 3 ‘W’s’ is what kind of trip do you want to have?

Are you keen to explore one or two Italian cities, or would you prefer having a relaxing beach vacation?

Understanding the M.O. of your Italian vacation will help you better plan an Italy trip.

All-inclusive Italy packages

While some travelers like to plan a trip to Italy on their own, others may prefer a ready-made version. Booking an Italy trip package alleviates the stress of having to plan an Italy trip solo.

Some Italy vacation packages can include airfare, hotels and maybe even some top attractions.

Most popular cities in Italy

For first-time visitors, I usually suggest visiting bigger cities in Italy. There are plenty of things to do in each one not to mention the many day trip options. Add one or two of these popular cities to your travel plans to Italy.

Day trips outside the city

Explore the best of each region by embarking on an Italy day trip. The beauty of visiting these popular cities in Italy is that the travel potential isn’t just confined to the city.

These travel guides outline plenty of day tripping ideas.

• 16 Milan day trips
• 11 Venice day trips
• 10 Palermo day trips
• 11 Sicily day trips
• Naples to the Amalfi Coast

Most popular regions in Italy

• Lazio (Rome)
• Tuscany (Florence, Siena, Chianti)
• Veneto (Venice, Verona, Lake Garda)
• Lombardy (Milan, Lake Como, Lake Garda)
• Liguria (Cinque Terre)
• Sicily (Palermo, Taormina, Aeolian Islands)

Most popular islands in Italy

Get a generous dose of vitamin D and sea by vacationing on one of these popular islands in Italy.

• Sicily (see ‘ most beautiful places in Sicily ‘)
• Beautiful islands where Italians like to vacation

Italy itineraries

Crafting an itinerary is an important step in how to plan a trip to Italy. The below are some Italy itinerary suggestions on which you can base your own.

1 week (7-8 days) in Italy starting from Rome

• Spend 3 days exploring the best attractions in Rome. Mix up the attractions between well-known sights like the Colosseum with something unique like a Rome street food tour .
• Visit the Amalfi Coast from Rome . Opt for a day trip or spend 1 to 2 nights in Positano or Amalfi.
• Take the high-speed Frecciarossa fast train to Naples. Spend one day in Naples visiting the city’s best sights.
• Travel to Florence from Rome by train. Make it a day trip or opt to stay for 2 days in Florence .

1 week in Italy starting from Milan

• Allocate 2-3 days (your preference) to visit the best attractions in Milan.
• Visit Lake Como from Milan . Make it a day trip or choose to spend 1 to 2 nights.
• Travel to Venice. The Frecciarossa train will take around 2hrs 28mins from Milan to Venice. Allow 2 (or 3) days to get the most out of your trip.

Be realistic with your itinerary

Once you’ve decided on where to go in Italy, I’d advise not straying too far from your itinerary.

Let’s take the example of Rome as your base destination. You’re a first-time visitor and you’ve one week in Italy. The above mentioned Rome itinerary provides plenty of time to see the city as well as other places.

To add a destination to your itinerary that’s much further away, like Cinque Terre, requires more planning. Rome to Cinque Terre by car will take around 5hrs 13mins (not including traffic). By train, the journey will take approximately 4hrs and 20mins.

You’ll also need to factor in other costs, such as booking train tickets, renting a car and booking accommodation in Cinque Terre. Instead, the day trip options listed above are within closer reach and take up less travel time.

By not cramming in too many places to your vacation to Italy means that you can fully enjoy the destination.

Watch: things not to do in Italy

Step 3: confirm the number of days/weeks

Knowing how much time in Italy to spend will depend on individual circumstances.

Many visitors traveling from within Europe tend to spend a long weekend break or a week in Italy. The shorter flight times makes this more accessible.

Travelers arriving from the US, Canada, Asia or Australia understandably prefer to book for a longer period. Two weeks (11 to 14 days) in Italy is standard for an Italian vacation.

Being clear about how many days you want to visit Italy will ultimately help you plan better.

Is one week enough in Italy?

One week in Italy is enough as long as you have planned properly and have a realistic itinerary.

This 8-day Italy itinerary can be shortened to 7 days or extended to 10 days depending on your timeframe.

Map of Italy

Step 4: book your flights

There’s no concrete rule as to when you should book your flights to Italy.

If visiting from outside Europe, I’d say that 5 to 6 weeks in advance is sufficient.

The exception would be if you plan to book a trip to Italy during peak periods like summer or Christmas. In this case, I’d suggest 2 to 3 months in advance.

I personally use Skyscanner or Google Flights to search for the best flight prices. But, use whichever search engine that you’re familiar with and one that’s trustworthy and easy to navigate.

My Italy travel guide on the major international airports lists which airports are closest to your destination. It also details which direct flights fly to/from the US.

Booking any flight well in advance comes with a certain risk. While it’s highly likely you’ll get a cheaper deal, you also run the risk of losing your money if plans change.

It’s why I advise paying extra for a flexible ticket or getting travel insurance that covers any kind of cancellation. This ensures that you’re covered for any eventuality when you plan a trip to Italy.

Step 5: book your accommodation

There’s more flexibility when it comes to booking accommodation for Italy.

Like booking flights, the earlier you book your accommodation, the better the deal you’re likely to get.

But unlike booking flights, many websites like booking.com offer a free cancellation period. It’s a big help to booking hotels and it gives you peace of mind should you need to cancel.

If you’re certain of your Italy travel dates, aim to book 1 to 1.5 months in advance.

How much will accommodation cost?

The cost of accommodation in Italy will depend on factors like the type of hotel you book, the destination and time of your visit.

A stay at the 5-star Le Sirenuse hotel in Positano on the Amalfi Coast will cost considerably more than a family-run B&B. We stayed at several affordable hotels during our 4-day trip to the Amalfi Coast and keeping to a budget is possible.

Local Italy tip : call the hotel directly to make a booking. We do this often and almost always secure a lower price for the room we want.

Consider accommodation alternatives

Solo travelers can cut accommodation costs by booking hostels or by trying out services like Couchsurfing. I tried couchsurfing as a female during a trip to Athens and it was a positive and money-saving experience.

Couples or families with young children should consider looking at Italy rental properties over staying at a hotel. They can sometimes work out slightly cheaper and also offer a home away from home experience.

Step 6: check your passport and whether you need a visa

Passport entry requirements for Italy follow the same as other countries. Passports must be valid for 3 months beyond the 3-month entry visa or for a total of 6 months.

Until the end of 2024, most non-EU visitors must apply for a Schengen Visa to enter Italy. This doesn’t apply to citizens from countries like the US, UK, Canada, Australia and Japan.

The following are some countries that require a Schengen Visa.

• Afghanistan

As part of the Schengen Agreement, visitors can stay for a full 3 months in any of the 27 participating countries visa free.

New entry requirements

But things are set to change from 2025. The EU announced in 2023 that all non-EU citizens will now require an entry requirement document to travel.  

Called an ETIAS, the document will cost €7 ($7.50/£6.10) and will last for 3 years. It’s similar to the entry document visitors need to travel to the USA called an ESTA.

Visitors will be able to apply for an ETIAS on the official website from 2025.*

What it entails — plan a trip to Italy

With an ETIAS, non-EU visitors can stay for a maximum of 90 days in Europe. Minors under 18 and people over 70 will receive an ETIAS free of charge. 

Dual citizens of any EU country will be exempt from requiring an ETIAS if they use their EU passport.

Step 7: research and book transport

There are a number of ways to get around Italy.

Many of the major cities, like Rome and Milan, have good public transport options. Take the metro, bus, tram or go on foot to reach your destination.

Taxis in Italy

Metered taxis in Italy are typically white and can be convenient for getting around the city. However, they can be more expensive compared to using public transport.

It’s also worth mentioning that ride-sharing apps like Uber only work in larger cities and not across Italy. The service also works differently in that Uber offers a more premium service in these places.

Needless to say, this usually comes with a higher price tag. It’s something to bear in mind when you plan a trip to Italy.

Instead, I advise downloading one of the most popular apps in Italy for taking taxis. There’s no need to speak Italian and payment is made in advance of your trip.

I cover this topic in greater detail in my guide on taking taxis in Italy .

Taking trains in Italy

For national journeys, taking trains in Italy is one of the best ways to visit Italy.

Two of the main operators are Trenitalia (state owned) and Italo (private). Speaking from personal experience, I’ve always had a good experience with the Italian train system.

From taking a train across Veneto to traveling through Sicily by train, it’s always been a pleasant experience.

Renting a car in Italy

Renting a car is one of the best ways to travel in Italy especially if you plan on touring Italy on your own.

The other best way to see Italy is by booking a tour. It removes the hassle (and cost) of having to arrange your own transport.

How to plan an Italy road trip

Planning a road trip around Italy is one of the best, and funnest, ways to see the country.

We’ve done a few Italy road trips, including from Sicily to Perugia and from Siena to Veneto . And while they’re a helluva lot of fun, an Italy road trip takes a lot of planning.

Some of the main points to consider for your road trip Italy include:

• hiring a car in Italy
• how many days you plan to travel for
• the route/s you want to take
• booking accommodation for the trip
• getting adequate car insurance

Ferry services in Italy

If planning on visiting the Italian islands, you’ll need to factor in a combination of hiring a car and booking ferry/boat tickets.

From mainland Italy, the ferry from Calabria to Sicily is one way of reaching the island. Once in Sicily, there are various ferry services that will take you to smaller islands like the Aeolian Islands.

My guide on how to get around Sicily covers the several transport modes in more detail.

Step 8: book tours and attractions

Your Italy itinerary has been confirmed and your flights and accommodation are booked.

Next comes the fun part of the process of how to plan a trip to Italy.

Booking tours and attractions are one of the best ways to see Italy. Though not obligatory, booking skip-the-line tickets are a great time saver and gets you in the attraction without having to wait in line.

Take The Vatican. It’s probably the most popular attraction (along with the Colosseum) to book in Rome.

However, lines to enter The Vatican are notoriously long and tedious. Saying that, booking tickets in advance for The Vatican is a smart move and one that takes little effort.

Major attractions

The following are some of my top picks for skip-the-line tickets in Italy. Divided by cities, consider adding one of these to your itinerary when you plan a trip to Italy.

Rome (and the Vatican)

• The Colosseum and the Roman Forum  
• Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel    
• St. Peter’s Basilica ( Basilica di San Pietro )  
• The Pantheon   
• The Catacombs of St. Callixtus  
• Borghese Gallery ( Galleria Borghese ) 
• National Museum of Castel Sant’Angelo ( Museo Nazionale di Castel Sant’Angelo )   
• The Capuchin Crypt    
• Florence’s Cathedral and climbing to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome   
• The Uffizi Gallery   
• The Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s David   
• Pitti Palace ( Palazzo Pitti )   
• Palazzo Vecchio  

• Milan Cathedral ( Duomo di Milano ) 
• Sforzesco Castle ( Castello Sforzesco ) 
• Da Vinci’s Last Supper painting
• Pinacoteca di Brera  art gallery
• Teatro alla Scala  (Scala Theater)
• Doge’s Palace ( Palazzo Ducale )  
• St. Mark’s Basilica ( Basilica di San Marco ) 
• Gondola ride through the canals of Venice   
• The islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello   
• Peggy Guggenheim Collection   
• The Academy Gallery ( Gallerie dell’Accademia ) 

There are plenty of other fun tours to consider booking on your Italy vacation. They include:

• Italy best food tours
• Boat tours in Italy
• Tuscany wine tours from Florence (no car needed)

Step 9: final preparations for your Italy trip

Prepare money, credit cards and get a sim card.

At this stage of travel planning for Italy, it’s a good idea to think about preparing your money and credit cards.

I advise having a minimum of €200 ($219/£171) in cash for your Italian vacation.

While debit and credit cards are widely accepted across Italy, having cash to hand is helpful when paying for smaller items like a coffee. It’s a topic I cover in ‘ what not to do in Italy ‘ and a tip that’s useful for visitors to know when traveling to Italy.

How to get a sim card in Italy

There are several options for getting a sim card in Italy. Not everyone may want one and connecting to the hotel WiFi or public (secure) connections may be sufficient.

But, there are several options to consider should you want to stay connected when traveling in Italy.

Speak to your cellphone provider

Many providers, like T-Mobile, provide international add-on services. These can be added to your current plan before you depart for Italy.  

Buy an eSim

One of the most popular eSims for traveling is Airalo . There are no roaming fees and it’s easy to set up and connect. Activate your eSIM in the Airalo app before you fly so that it’s ready for when you land in Italy.

Buy a sim card from a provide in Italy

Some of the larger cellphone companies include Vodafone, WINDTRE (W3) and TIM. They can arrange a sim card for visitors that will cover the duration of your Italy vacation. My guide on traveling to Italy from the USA covers this topic in greater detail.

Research airport transfers

A mistake that visitors don’t often consider in travel planning for Italy is to research airport transfers. Knowing how to get from the airport to your accommodation in advance will help you better plan a trip to Italy.

The following are some airport transfer options from the most popular international airports in Italy.

Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO)

• Shuttle bus transfer to/from Rome FCO Airport
• Bus transfer between Rome FCO and Roma Termini train station
• Private small group transfer (1 way) from Rome Fiumicino
• Private transfer from Rome Fiumicino Airport
• White-metered taxi

Florence Airport Peretola (FLR)

• Private transfer from Florence Airport to hotel
• Private transfer to Florence Airport
• Tram T2 service from Peretola Airport stop ( Peretola Aeroporto ) to the center

Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)

• Direct transfer between Malpensa Airport and the center of Milan
• Bus transfer from Malpensa Airport and Milan Central station
• Private transfer to/from Malpensa Airport
• Train from Malpensa Aeroporto T1 to Milano Cadorna

Venice Marco Polo Airport

• Bus transfer between Venice Marco Polo Airport and Venice
• Marco Polo Airport water taxi transfer
• Boat transfer to/from Venice Marco Polo with 3 routes
• Shared water taxi transfer to Venice Airport
• Private water taxi transfer to/from Venice Airport
• Express bus to/from Mestre train station

Naples International Airport (NAP)

• Bus transfer to/from Naples Airport
• Private minivan transfer (1 way) from Naples Airport to the city center
• Naples International Airport to the Amalfi Coast
• Private transfer from Naples to Sorrento

What to pack for Italy

What to pack for Italy can be easier for some seasons over others.

For example, if planning an Italy vacation for summer, you should be safe packing items like t-shirts, shorts, sandals and sneakers. The Italy packing list of someone visiting Rome for 4 days will naturally differ from someone coming to hike around the Dolomites.

Springtime in Italy can be slightly trickier. Temperatures can range from cold to moderate depending on which part of Italy you visit.

I advise bringing some of the following travel essentials for your trip in Italy no matter the season.

• Disposable rain poncho (handy if it rains and also for covering up when visiting cathedrals)
• Travel scarf wrap (ideal for cool spring and summer evenings and for staying warm on the plane)

Other non-clothing essential items to bring when you plan a trip to Italy include:

• An international power plug adapter
• Insect repellent spray
• Bite treatment cream
• Water sport shoes

Learn some basic Italian words and phrases

This suggestion of how to plan a trip to Italy is by no means obligatory but it can be very useful.

It’s safe to say that in bigger cities like Rome or Milan, you’ll come across Italians that speak good English. The same can’t be said when you venture into rural parts of Lazio or Lombardy.

Get in the know

Knowing some easy common Italian words and phrases can come in handy if traveling in more remote areas.

My husband and I experienced communication issues during our south Sardinia road trip .

Despite us both speaking Italian, we were perplexed by the Sardinian dialect when visiting rural parts. Knowing some ‘ Sardo ‘ before we visited might have improved our communication experience.

Know about the new Venice tourist tax

An overnight tourist tax in Venice has been in place for many years. Essentially, it’s a tax that’s added to a person’s hotel bill and can range from €1 ($1.10/£0.86) to €5 ($5.48/£4.28).

The tax is calculated per person, the number of nights stay and the number of stars of the hotel.

A ‘day tripper’ Venice tourist tax

But from April 2024, there’s a new Venice tourist tax that’s being introduced by the Venice council. Here are some things to know:

• The Venice day tax will cost €5 per person to visit Venice on a day trip from 8.30am to 4pm
• You have until 11.59 p.m. on the day before your booked visit to cancel
• Anyone over the age of 14 that wants to travel to Venice on a day trip is liable to pay the day tax 
• Visitors staying overnight in Venice are exempt. To be clear, you only have to pay one of the tourist taxes 

How to pay for the day-tripper Venice tourist tax

Visit the Venice council website to pay for your Venice day trip. Click on the ‘payment of the fee’ button and fill out the details accordingly.

There are several exemptions for who has to pay the Venice tourist tax. They include:

• children under 14 years old (ID is required)
• residents of Veneto, and
• extended family residing, or renting an apartment, in Venice

Knowing about this new Venice tax is important in how to plan a trip to Italy.

Be informed about Italian public holidays

Another thing to consider when you plan a trip to Italy are the public holidays .

While these dates won’t affect your vacation, they may affect your planning.

Take our trip back from the Sicilian island of Lipari . We made a big mistake one year of traveling on 15 August, a public holiday called Ferragosto . Shops are typically closed on this day and public transportation services are limited.

With no transport services from Messina, we ended up forking out a lot of money on a taxi.

Italian public holidays aren’t likely to affect travel plans like flights. But, being aware of some important dates will help you better plan a trip to Italy.

After all, you wouldn’t want to arrive at your destination only to find that many public services are closed.

How to stay safe in Italy

Traveling around Italy is relatively safe.

However, to ensure safe travels in Italy, it’s important to be aware of potential scams that can happen. These commonly happen more in bigger cities but don’t let your guard down even when visiting smaller Italian towns.

Eating out in Italy

There are different types of dining establishments when eating out in Italy.

Trattorias are typically family-run and focus on home-style cooking. They also tend to be more relaxed and reasonable in price.

They’re our go-to when we want to eat good quality food and decent-size portions.

Restaurants ( ristorante ) usually cater to fine dining. The locations are fancier and some may even have a dress code in place. Unsurprisingly, restaurants tend to have higher prices than trattorias.

Trattoria or osteria?

The osteria is another eating establishment that you’ll find around Italy.

Traditionally, it used to only serve wine along with some smaller plates but today, things have changed. Some places label themselves as an osteria , but in reality, they’re really a trattoria .

What are your thoughts on this step-by-step guide on how to plan a trip to Italy? Do you feel more confident to start planning your Italy trip? Let me know in the comments below.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.

*Prices correct at time of travel

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Welcome to my site. I'm Lisa, an Italy-based travel and lifestyle blogger behind Following the Rivera. Find out more about me and my story.

Make a list of the 3 ‘Ws’: When, Where, What. When do you want to go, where do you want to go, and what kind of trip do you want. This is a good starting point in planning your Italy trip.

How far in advance should I plan a trip to Italy?

Two to three months in advance should give you enough time. You may need longer if factoring in visa issues and other traveler requirements.

What are the cheapest months to travel to Italy?

Traveling to Italy from October to February tends to be cheaper. It all depends on where you want to go and for how long.

Do I need a visa to visit Italy?

From 2025, all non-EU citizens will have to apply for an ETIAS. The entry requirement document will cost €7 ($7.50/£6.10) and lasts for 3 years. Details will be available on the ETIAS official website from 2025.

100 thoughts on “ How to plan a trip to Italy | a step-by-step guide ”

They are great and valuable tips on planning a trip to Italy. Very helpful for a fantastic vacation and to save a bit on a budget. It’s great that you are giving so much exciting information about cities and regions. This definitely facilitates the choice of direction.

Thank you Agnes, I’m glad you enjoyed it! I try to help others in the planning stage 🙂

That is such an informative post! Thank you for sharing!

Wow! This is a fantastic guide! I have been only to Rome, but there are so many beautiful places in Italy I want to visit – Amalfi, Naples, Como… Thanks for your tips!

Thank you Lucy! I really hope you use it to re=plan your visit for your next trip

This is an extremely helpful and informative post! Makes traveling abroad a little less intimidating! Thank you for sharing!

It’s my pleasure!

Wow! This in a very detailed plan. I have fond memories of my study abroad in Italy. It’s so hard to believe it was almost 20 years ago. A trip back is a must for me soon!

Thank you Teresa! I really hope that you visit us again soon

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Italy Travel Guide

If you have been to Italy before, then you probably know that this incredible country always leaves you wanting for more.

If this is your first time planning a trip to Italy , don’t make the mistake of just visiting Rome, Venice, and Florence and thinking that you saw the best. There is so much more to see and do in Italy! Visiting just a few big cities (no matter how beautiful) doesn’t do this country justice.

Whether you are looking for history, architecture, stunning scenery, quaint little towns or good food – Italy has it all. It’s a perfect country to visit with kids too, as Italians just love the bambini . And the kids will fall for Italian gelatos, pizzas, and pasta…

Italy is one of our all-time favorite destinations in the world . It’s of those countries that you can visit ten times and still have the feeling that you only scratched the surface. It’s one of our favorite countries in Europe, one we gladly return to again and again.

We have been to Italy more times than I can remember , and you can find some of those experiences on this blog. This is by no means a complete guide to visiting Italy. Rather a selection of blog posts from some of our favorite destinations from our recent trips to Italy.

From the main landmarks of Venice to hidden gems of Rome, and from road trip itineraries in Tuscany to the most beautiful hikes in the Italian Dolomites – get inspired to visit Italy and plan your dream trip with our Italy travel tips and advice. In addition, you can find all the info that you need for visiting San Marino. Find out!

*This page contains affiliate links, which means that we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. More info: Disclosure .

Italy Travel Tips & Destination Guides

• Italy Itinerary (2-week itinerary that covers all the musts – perfect for the first trip)
• Best Places to Visit in Italy
• Most Beautiful Cities in Italy
• Most Beautiful Churches & Cathedrals in Italy
• Cinque Terre vs. Amalfi Coast
• Italian Food by Region

Campania (Naples/ Amalfi Coast/ Capri)

• 10-Day Itinerary for Naples, Amalfi Coast & Capri Island
• Best Things to Do in Naples
• Where to Stay in Naples
• 1 Day in Naples
• Best Day Trips from Naples
• Mount Vesuvius (complete guide on how to visit)

Amalfi Coast:

• Essential Travel Tips for Visiting the Amalfi Coast
• Amalfi Coast Itinerary (Suggestions from 1 to 5 days)
• Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast
• How to Get to the Amalfi Coast from Naples
• Path of the Gods Hike

Capri Island:

• Capri Island: Things To Do & Tips For Your Visit
• Where to Stay in Capri
• How to Visit Capri from Sorrento

Emilia Romagna

• Best Things to Do in Bologna
• Best Things to Do in Rimini
• Bologna & Florence Itinerary
• Emilia Romagna Itinerary (this region is a true hidden gem of Italy)
• Best Things to Do in Ravenna

Lazio (Rome)

Rome – best places & experiences:

• BEST Places to See & Things to Do in Rome
• Colosseum: Tickets, Tours & Levels Explained
• Hidden Gems of Rome (that most tourists never see)
• Best Views and Viewpoints in Rome (most are really easy to visit)
• Rome Underground Sites, Crypts & Catacombs
• Ancient Rome Landmarks (the oldest places to see in Rome)
• Rome Street Food Tour (our favorite!)

Rome itineraries:

• 1 Day in Rome (see all the musts in a day)
• 2 Days in Rome (best places + a few hidden gems)
• Rome 4 Days Itinerary (see all the main landmarks + hidden gems)

Practical information for visiting Rome:

• Tips for Planning Your Trip to Rome
• Rome Airport Transfers
• Where to Eat and How to Find The Best Food in Rome
• Where to Stay in Rome (the VERY BEST area)
• Rome in November (what to expect and seasonal tips)

Liguria (Italian Riviera)

Cinque Terre:

• Complete Guide to Visiting Cinque Terre (Tips for first-time visitors)
• How to See the Best of Cinque Terre in One Day
• Where to Stay in Cinque Terre (Ultimate Guide to 5terre Hotels)

Italian Riviera:

• Most Beautiful Small Coastal Towns of the Italian Riviera
• Portovenere (Hidden Gem near Cinque Terre)

Lombardy (Milan and the Lakes)

• Best Things to Do in Milan
• How to See The Best of Milan in One Day
• Best Things to Do in Lake Como
• Lake Como Travel Tips & Useful Info
• Most Beautiful Towns to Visit in Lake Como
• Villa del Balbianello
• Where to Stay in Lake Como: Best Towns & Hotels
• Most Beautiful Villas and Gardens of Lake Como

Lake Garda:

• Best of Lake Garda – Places You Shouldn’t Miss
• Lake Garda Itinerary (suggestions for any trip duration)

Trentino-South Tyrol & Veneto (Italian Mountains)

• Best Places to Visit in the Dolomites
• Dolomites Itinerary (suggestions for any trip duration from 1 day to a week and more)
• Where to Stay in the Dolomites (2 best areas & tips)
• Most Beautiful Lakes in the Dolomites
• Marmolada, the Queen of the Dolomites
• Lago di Braies – Pragser Wildsee (the most beautiful lake in the Dolomites)
• Lago di Dobbiaco – Toblacher See (a less touristy alternative to Lago di Braies)
• Val Gardena Hotel Guide

Hiking in the Dolomites:

• Most Beautiful Hikes in the Dolomites
• Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hike
• Lago di Sorapis Hike
• Cinque Torri Hike
• Lago di Limides Hike
• Lago Federa Hike
• Best Things To Do in Trentino with Kids (adventure family summer vacation in Italy)
• Val di Fumo Hike (one of the most beautiful mountain valleys in Italy)

Tuscany (Florence & beyond)

• Best Things to Do in Florence
• 1 Day in Florence
• Florence Rooftop Bars & Hotels with Rooftop Terrace
• Florence to Bologna: Travel Info & Itinerary
• Best Things to Do in Siena
• Siena Cathedral

More of Tuscany:

• Most Beautiful Towns of Tuscany
• Best Things to Do in Montepulciano
• Tuscany Itinerary
• How To See Tuscany From One Central Location

Veneto (Venice, Verona & beyond)

• Best Things to Do in Venice
• 1 Day in Venice: Things to Do & Itinerary
• 3 Days in Venice
• Tips for Visiting Doge’s Palace in Venice
• Venice Gondola Ride (Tips for a better experience)
• Venice by Car
• Visiting Venice with a Baby or a Toddler
• Best Things to Do in Verona

While the Republic of San Marino is an independent country, this tiny gem is completely surrounded by Italy. I, therefore, included all our guides to San Marino in this Italian travel guide.

• San Marino Travel Guide (ALL the information you need!)
• Three Towers of San Marino (what to expect & tips for your visit)
• Best Hotels in San Marino

Tours, Skip-the-line Tickets & Day Trips

Many tourist attractions in Italy are so popular that it’s absolutely essential to book skip-the-line tickets in advance. Some tickets, tours, and excursions also sell out fast, especially in high season.

TIP: For our own trips, we book pretty much all our tours and organized activities via GetYourGuide website . It’s our favorite one-stop shop for all tickets and tours because they have the best customer service and the most flexible cancellation policy we have ever seen.

Booking directly with a local company usually means that you can’t easily cancel for free, let alone get a refund in case something goes wrong. For that, it’s always helpful to have a strong intermediary and Get Your Guide is the best one we know.

When to Visit

There is no bad time to visit Italy and all seasons have something special and unique. In general, the best time to visit Italy is from April to October . That’s when the weather is at its best and everything is open everywhere.

However, it can get really hot in the summer months. So if you are visiting in June, July, and August, try to avoid big cities and visit smaller places at the coast or in the mountains.

My own favorite time to be in Italy is spring and autumn. The weather is perfect for sightseeing and there are fewer people. This is one of the best times to travel in Europe !

We also love visiting Italy in the lower season. That’s when you can experience a truly authentic side of this beautiful country. Here you can find some inspiration and information on what it’s really like to visit Italy in November and here for November in Rome .

Accommodation

If you are visiting Italy in high season (Easter + May to September), it’s advisable to book your accommodation well in advance. Best price/quality accommodations are always gone first.

Below, you can find our lodging guides for several destinations:

• Best area to stay in Rome
• Best Cinque Terre hotels
• Where to stay in Lake Como area
• Where to stay in the Dolomites
• Best Val Gardena hotels
• Best San Marino hotels

Booking.com is our first and usually the only resource when booking accommodation for all our trips, also in Italy. They have the best selection of hotels, B&Bs, and privately owned accommodations. Furthermore, they also have the most transparent booking system with the biggest flexibility in terms of cancellations. Nowadays, we book all our holiday accommodations through this website.

If you are visiting Italian cities, do yourself a favor and do not rent a car. You can easily visit all the bigger towns by train (see our Italy itinerary for inspiration).

However, if you are traveling in smaller places, often, having a car is so much easier. So it’s important to plan well and know what kind of trip you want to make.

In general, driving in Italy is comparable to driving in other European countries. Traffic jams and tolls on the highways, busy traffic in towns, and shortage of car parking spaces in the most popular areas in high season… That never stopped us from exploring Italy by car, however. There are so many amazing regions and smaller towns in Italy that would be very difficult to see otherwise.

Here you can find the best deals for car rental . We always book our rental cars through this website and I highly recommend that you take their full insurance option as well.

READ ALSO: How to Plan a Trip to Europe

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Italy Trip Planner

Top destinations in italy.

Top attractions in Italy

Other notable attractions

Explore nearby places

• La Massimina-Casal Lumbroso
• Rocca Santo Stefano
• Cerreto Laziale
• Isola Farnese
• Torrimpietra
• Casal Palocco
• Ostia Antica
• Tragliatella
• Castel Romano
• Fonte Nuova
• Lido di Ostia
• Anguillara Sabazia

All related maps of Italy

• Map of Italy
• Map of La Massimina-Casal Lumbroso
• Map of Rocca Santo Stefano
• Map of Ladispoli
• Map of Rome
• Map of Cerreto Laziale
• Map of Gorga
• Map of Isola Farnese
• Map of Acilia
• Map of Torrimpietra
• Map of Maccarese
• Map of Casal Palocco
• Map of Fregene
• Map of Ostia Antica
• Map of Roiate
• Map of Tragliatella
• Map of Palidoro
• Map of Focene
• Map of Infernetto
• Map of Aranova
• Map of Cesano
• Map of Ciampino
• Map of Formello
• Map of Torre Gaia
• Map of Castel Romano
• Map of Fiumicino
• Map of Fonte Nuova
• Map of Lido di Ostia
• Map of Sacrofano
• Map of Anguillara Sabazia
• Map of Riano

Italy throughout the year

• Italy in January
• Italy in February
• Italy in March
• Italy in April
• Italy in May
• Italy in June
• Italy in July
• Italy in August
• Italy in September
• Italy in October
• Italy in November
• Italy in December

Q&A about Italy

Add places from guides with 1 click, collaborate with friends in real time, import flight and hotel reservations, expense tracking and splitting, checklists for anything, get personalized suggestions.

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The Best Time to Visit Rome

Weather & Climate

Rome Airport Guide

Tipping in Rome

Rome's Top Neighborhoods

Public Transportation in Rome

Itinerary: 3 Days in Rome

Day Trips From Rome

Rome's Top Attractions

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Beaches Near Rome

Top Museums in Rome

Where to Shop in Rome

Events in Rome

The Best Food to Try

The Top Restaurants in Rome

Nightlife in Rome

Your Trip to Rome: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Rome, Italy, commonly referred to as the Eternal City, is a top travel destination that draws millions of visitors each year. An exuberant and modern world capital, Rome offers travelers fascinating reminders of its imperial past at every turn. It's also an international hub for contemporary fashion, design, art, and culture.

Encounter glorious monuments and ancient ruins dating as far back as at least the 3rd century B.C. Marvel at the stunning Romanesque- and Gothic-style architecture, medieval churches, picturesque squares, Baroque fountains, and world-class museums . Besides having an almost unlimited number of sights and attractions to see, Rome is famous for its traditional Roman food and wine and its vibrant nightlife , as well as pretty urban parks and peaceful nature reserves.

Planning Your Trip

Things to know before you go:

• Best Time to Visit : Since Rome has a Mediterranean climate, there's really no bad time to visit . If you want to avoid the crowds and the heat of summer, we recommend coming to Rome in the late spring or early autumn when the weather is mild and lines tend to be shorter. For average daily temperatures and rainfall, month by month, see our article.
• Language: Italian is the official language   , but you'll find that many people speak some English, especially those who work in the tourist industry. That said, it's always a good idea to bring along a pocket-sized phrasebook or download one of the many free language translation apps on your smartphone, just in case.
• Currency: As a member of the European Union   , Italy uses the Euro (€). Prices include tax and credit cards are widely accepted in restaurants, hotels, and shops. But when purchasing small items like a cup of coffee, a slice of pizza, or a glass of wine, plan on paying cash.
• Getting Around: Although Rome is a big metropolis, the historic center, or centro storico , is fairly compact, making it a highly walkable city. Public transport in Rome is run by ATAC , which operates the buses and trams linking riders to most areas in the city. The Metro subway system is affordable and quick.
• Travel Tip: You might find shorter lines if you visit the most popular attractions in the early afternoon when most people are at lunch.

Getting Around

Rome has an extensive public transportation system that consists of the Metro (subway), buses, trams, and three suburban railway lines (FS). Convenient and relatively inexpensive, the network connects to Rome's most popular tourist attractions but can be sometimes unreliable and overcrowded, especially during the summer months.

Things To Do

With so much to do and see in Rome, we recommend you start by hitting the major tourist attractions first—especially if this is your first visit. Regardless, do make sure to leave time in your schedule for people watching on an intimate piazza or strolling down Rome's many charming streets and cobbled alleyways.

Here are just some of Rome's top attractions:

• The Colosseum or Colosseo is the largest monument from Imperial Rome   still in existence today. The enormous amphitheater once housed fierce gladiator contests and wild animal fights. It's best approached from Via dei Fori Imperiali to get the full effect of its grandeur. Entrance lines can be long, so check out our tips for buying Colosseum tickets and avoid waiting .
• The Pantheon , one of the world's best-preserved ancient buildings, this masterpiece of Roman architecture began as a pagan temple before becoming a church in the 7th century AD. Located on Piazza della Rotonda, the Pantheon has a cylinder-shaped, hemispherical dome featuring a round hole in the top, the oculus, that allows natural light to stream in, as well as raindrops. Admission is free.
• Vatican City, the home of Saint Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums, is the world's smallest city-state. Geographically located within Rome, but not actually part of it, St. Peter's is the largest church in the world and houses important works by Michelangelo and Bernini. The Vatican Museums ( Musei Vaticani ) is a massive complex that contains an impressive art collection spanning 3,000 years—from Classical to modern eras. It's here that you can see the Sistine Chapel featuring Michelangelo's renowned frescoed ceiling.

For more information and details about Rome's sights and attractions see our 3 Days in Rome: What to See and Do or The 25 Top Things to Do in Rome.

What to Eat and Drink

Traditional Roman cuisine is based on inexpensive cuts of meat like offal and simple pasta recipes such as cacio e pepe (pecorino cheese and black pepper) and spaghetti carbonara (egg, cheese, and pork cheek). Other Roman favorites include deep fried artichokes ( carciofi alla giudia ), supplì (stuffed balls of rice with tomato sauce), and thin, crisp-crusted pizza.

Frascati is a white wine blend made in an area just south of the city. Artisanal and craft beer has become quite popular recently with pubs cropping up all over the city. In speakeasies and chic hipster bars, cocktails are flowing after hours.

Where to Stay

With so many diverse and interesting neighborhoods in Rome, it's hard to choose where to stay. For easy access to the airport and public transportation, staying in a cozy B&B or friendly hostel near Termini Station makes a lot of sense. If you want to be where the action is, there are a myriad of lodging options in Trastevere , Monti, and the centralissimo (very central) area, though these quarters can be rather noisy at night. If romance is what you're after, consider staying at a historic luxury hotel along the famed Via Veneto or near the Spanish Steps, but expect to pay a premium for such stellar locations. If you're on a budget, self-catering Airbnbs and inexpensive hotels are available all over the city, offering a great solution.

Getting There

There are two airports serving the Rome metropolitan area: Fiumicino (also known as Leonardo da Vinci) is the main international airport and Ciampino is a smaller, regional one. The best way to get into the city from the Fiumicino is by train to the main railway station closest to the historic center, Stazione Termini . You can also take airport buses to either Termini or Tiburtina station. We recommend you avoid driving in Rome if at all possible.

The Port of Civitavecchia is where cruise ships dock in Rome. See Civitavecchia to Rome Transportation for information about getting to the city or airport from here.

Culture and Customs

If you want to "do as the Romans do," then follow the bit of advice below.

• You must have your ticket before boarding any public transportation—buy them at station kiosks, newsstands ( edicole ), and tabacchi (tobacco shops). At boarding, be sure to stamp your ticket to validate them or you could get hit with a steep fine.
• You can't hail a cab on the streets of Rome, but can pick up one at the many official taxi stands scattered throughout the city.
• In restaurants, remember that tipping isn't obligatory, but is much appreciated. The rule of thumb is to leave €1 for each diner in your group or round up the check a few euros. If you get exceptional service, feel free to leave up to, but no more than 10% of the total bill.
• When perusing Rome's many boutiques and fashionable shops know that handling items is frowned upon, therefore it's best to ask the shopkeeper for assistance.
• Rome is a relatively safe big city, yet it does have its share of petty crime. Be aware of pickpockets, especially at train stations, on the Metro, and in crowded tourist areas.

For more information regarding the art of tipping in Italy, check out our article,  When & How Much to Tip in Italy: The Complete Guide .

Money Saving Tips

For budget-conscious travelers, here are a few ways to save a little coin without skimping on the fun.

• Rock the Aperitivo (pre-dinner drink): When you order a glass of wine or cocktail, it usually comes with a plate of yummy food (cold cuts, squares of pizza, etc.) at no extra charge.
• Forgo summertime and opt to visit during the winter, early spring or late fall. Temperatures are mild and travel packages and discounts are available.
• If you're going to be in Rome for three or more days, the OMNIA or RomaPass pass is a great value. Along with offering free admission to several sights, you don't have to wait in line thanks to the "fast-track" entrance feature included in the price.

Find out more about the cheapest ways to have fun by exploring our guide on visiting Rome on a budget.

Central Intelligence Agency. "The World Fact Book."

European Union. "The 27 member countries of the EU."

Encyclopedia Britannica. "Colosseum."

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Vatican City Travel Guide

Buying Tickets for the Colosseum in Rome

Paris Guide: Planning Your Trip

Your Trip to Florence: The Complete Guide

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Tuscany Guide: Planning Your Trip

Your Trip to St. Lucia: The Complete Guide

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Home » Europe » Italy » Backpacking Guide

The COMPLETE Backpacking Italy Travel Guide | 2024

Italy is easily one of the most beautiful countries in the world and a MUST for all backpackers to explore at least once in their lives. 

This incredible mass of land is home to outrageous hiking trails (yes, I’m looking at you Dolomites), endless coastlines that are clearly not PG and some of the best food on the planet. 

Whether you’re up for zooming down the coastal roads on a scooter with a cute Italian you’ve picked up along the way or sipping wine in the Tuscan countryside; there are so many Eat Pray Love moments to be had in Italy. 

With so much going for it, I believe that it is of great personal value to misspend several weeks traversing the heart-rendingly gorgeous alleyways, art galleries, and countryside (dude, you can’t spend the whole time looking at pretty bricks) of this sensational country.

Italy has so much on offer for us backpackers that it can sometimes be overwhelming – where the heck do you even start? But d on’t you worry about a thing! You’ve come to the right place – I’m here to answer all your questions and more. 

I have created this top-tier backpacking guide on backpacking Italy filled with the juiciest of travel tips to help you stay mostly under budget, mostly uninjured, and mostly happy. Italy is absolutely doable on a shoestring (if you’re willing to cut some corners). And I’m here to teach you how! 

So, let’s get into it.

Why Go Backpacking in Italy?

Like visiting a really well put-together family, taking the time to visit Italy will leave you wondering ‘when can I move in?’

Italian cuisine is a world wonder in itself, and the art of dining for hours is something that has been slowly perfected for generations. Combine that with a smattering of stunning semi-archaic homes, amazing places to go , and a collection of UNESCO world heritage sites so large that you’ll start thinking you are one too…

Italy is an amazing country, and well deserving of the international recognition and attention that it receives. However, this also means that you can find yourself on the precipice of leaking buckets from your bank account, wondering is Italy Expensive ?

And whilst tourist destinations can soak up funds, employing sneaky couch-surfing, tinder, or even just real friendship antics can score you an easy bed. It is very possible to do Italy on a budget ! Just don’t be surprised if you have to camp on a beach or in someone’s backyard…

How to Approach Travel in Italy

The best approach to backpacking is always to have a plan, then improvise . As Sun Tzu once said, “In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity”, and never has this been truer than in the depths of Italia.

As my father regrettably discovered one fateful day in Greece, not having a plan can make some people very, very upset. Equally, to be too strict with oneself restricts the enjoyment that you can have, worrying about making it to the next thing. Find the balance! And a great place to stay …

It is my (deep) philosophical belief, that this guide should provide you not with a perfect pre-arranged, travel-agency-style itinerary, but with the bare ‘bones’ of your trip – there to be fleshed out closer to the time. This guide is a beast, but every travel tip here should help you cogitate some excellent plans…

Travel tip 1: Learn some Italian!

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Italy

Below is a list of four travel itineraries for backpacking Italy. They cover the regions of Central Italy , Northern Italy , The South , and Sardinia . They vary from one to three weeks in length and cover the majority of the top things to do in Italy. Whatever you fancy your Italian itinerary to be, the itinerary section is here to give you a few attainable routes!

Backpacking Italy 14-Day Itinerary – Central Italy

See the central Italy and some of its most culturally significant locations! This 14-day itinerary through Italy will take you to Rome, Tuscany, Florence, Cinque Terre, and Bologna .

Start in Rome and experience the magnificence of the “Eternal City.” Save money by jumping on free walking tours – or go yourself. Visiting the Trevi fountain, St. Peter’s Basilica, Colosseum and a ton of other cool old stuff is a great free way to spend your time!

Afterwards, head north through the Tuscan countryside, visiting as many charming villages and rustic vineyards as you can. Eventually, you’ll end up in the capital of Tuscany, Florence . Florence is one of the most important cities in Italy and is full of history. If you’re sick of museums, take a trip to Cinque Terre and get some much-needed beach time.

Finally, cross the Apennine Mountains and experience one of Italy’s hidden gems : Bologna . Bologna has amazing food and some awesome parties – you won’t be disappointed.

Backpacking Italy 10-Day Itinerary – Northern Italy

For a slightly different experience, check out the engine of Italy: the industrialized North. This 10-day itinerary will allow you to see Milan, Turin, Genoa, and Venice. These cities are among the most economically important metropolises in both past and present Italy. This is one of the best ways to see Italy in only 10 days!

Starting in affluent Milan , you’ll be able to see such delights as the grand Duomo and the Last Supper painting. There are lots of incredible things to do in Milan but the surrounding area is impressive too. Taking the time to sink a few days in Lake Como is a great idea!

Next stop is Turin , the “royal” epicenter of Italy. Check out one of the many palaces or visit an industrial museum. The Alps are right there as well so feel free to go hiking, skiing or whatever your outdoor fancy is.

Genoa is a short drive away from Turin and is a bit of a forgotten destination. This doesn’t mean that it isn’t worth visiting though! Spend a few days in this port city and grub on some amazing cuisine.

Wrapping things up, travel east all the way to Venice , the Jewel of the Adriatic. Wander among the canals and bridges and feel the grandeur of one of the most beautiful cities in Italy.

Backpacking Italy 3 week Itinerary – The South

The south of Italy might as well be a different country (and I think that the locals wish that it was).This 3-week itinerary will lead you through some of Italy’s most beautiful landscapes and some of its most well-known cultural anomalies. Along the way, you’ll visit Naples (and its awesome things to do ), the Amalfi Coast, Puglia, and the whole island of Sicily .

Naples is the largest city in the south and is has a fat volcano next to it. Visit one of the many museums or, for a more interactive experience, the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum . When you’re finished here, head to the nearby Amalfi Coast, which is one of the most beautiful places in Italy.

Heading south, you’ll arrive in the “heel” of Italy i.e. the region of Puglia . This is one of the most culturally diverse places in Italy and is full of wonderful eccentricities. See the strange trulli huts and then lounge on some fine coastline.

Your final stop is in Sicily , which is a large and wonderfully exciting island. Be sure to visit the bustling capital of Palermo , stay in the city of Catania , and everything in-between. You’ll probably end up spending half your trip here, and that’s ok.

Backpacking Italy 7 Day Itinerary – Sardinia

Many a trip to Italy neglects the islands which is a shame. Sardinia is, without a doubt, one the most spectacular islands in the world – it deserves at least a week to be visited!

This 7-day itinerary through Italy’s own paradise will resemble a loop as it takes you to all of the top destinations of the area. There really are some unbelievable places to stay in Sardinia .

Arrive in Cagliari or Olbia and begin your adventure there. Go trekking in the highlands of Gennargentu and the Gulf of Orosei. Explore the north of the island where most beautiful beaches are located. Spend a day or two in Alghero and be sure to drop by Neptune’s Grotto. No matter which direction you go in Sardinia, beauty awaits.

And if you’re still choosing between Milan and Barcelona , then check out this helpful guide to help you decide.

Best Places to Visit in Italy

Countries are all so unreasonably big, aren’t they? Which is of course, why we love them ;). Anyway, here are some specifics on actual real Italian places…

Backpacking Rome

“All roads lead to Rome.” You’ll find yourself using this expression more than once while backpacking around Italy. For thousands of years, Rome has been one of the most important cities in Europe. It’s the center of all things Italy and, arguably, the entirety of Western Civilization. Your trip to Italy is incomplete without visiting Rome.

A visit to Rome can be quite expensive . Rome is a huge metropolis that contains multiple districts and even a separate state within – the Vatican City. I’ll cover most of the top things to do in Rome. Those who want more accommodation tips should check out our guide on where to stay in Rome .

The majority of Rome’s top attractions are located in the neighborhoods that compose the municipal region of the Historical Center-Prati . There are 21 rioni (districts) in the center – labeled with Roman numerals – and most have several historical sites to visit. You can refer to this map for a better visual.

A great itinerary for Rome would be to walk from Piazza del Popolo ( Campo Marzio – R.XII ) all the way to Aventine Hill ( Testaccio – R.XIX ). This route will require an entire day to complete. If you fancy a guide shouting ungentlemanly Italian at you, I’d recommend joining a free walking tour!

Popular places that you’ll be visiting on this itinerary include the Spanish Steps ( Campo Marzio – R.XII ), Trevi Fountain ( Trevi – R.II ), Piazza Navona ( Parione – R.VI ), the Pantheon ( Pigna – R.IX ), Sant’Ignazio Church, Piazza Venezia ( Campitelli R.X ), the Roman Forum, and the Colosseo.

Those wanting to see the Vatican City and Castel Sant’Angelo ( Borgo – R.XIV ) – located across the Tiber River – should allocate another full day of walking. Must-see places in Vatican City are St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museum.

Deciding between Rome and Venice can be challenging enough, so we’ve helped you out with this guide.

Backpacking Florence

Florence is one of my favorites ! In my opinion, it’s the most romantic destination in the whole country. It’s another must-see on a trip to Italy.

The top places to visit in Florence are mostly located in Santa Croce . Brunelleschi’s Dome, attached to the Cathedral of Santa Maria della Fiore, is the most magnificent sight in Florence. It rises prominently above the surrounding buildings and can’t be missed. You can climb the Dome for a fee or enter the cathedral free of charge. Buying a ticket for the dome will also give you access to the Cathedral’s other sites including the Baptistery and Giotto’s Tower.

No Florentine itinerary would be complete without visiting the Mercato del Porcellino, Palazzo Vecchio, or any of the museums.

The Mercato del Porcellino is known for its brass statue of a boar. Legend has it that you’ll be granted a wish if you rub the swine’s snout and place a coin in its mouth at the same time. Like being able to find a really awesome place to stay in Florence , for example.

Adjacent to the Palazzo Vecchio is Ponte Vecchio, which is one the many covered bridges crossing the Arno that are characteristic of the city. Ponte Vecchio is the most famous bridge, while Ponte Santa Trinita and Ponte alle Grazie are also notable.

Across the Arno River and atop the hill of San Miniato is Piazzale Michelangelo. This is the best view in Florence! Grab a drink from a local vendor and watch the sunset here.

Backpacking Tuscany

The most popular cities in Tuscany are Pisa and Siena . Pisa is (obviously) most known for its Leaning Tower though there are more things to do around the Piazza dei Miracoli.

Siena is a great place to stay ; it’s conveniently located in the center of Tuscany and is a great base to explore the surrounding countryside. The city is still worth exploring as it’s full of gorgeous medieval architecture.

If you’re looking for some beach time, the lesser-known island of Elba features some of the best beaches in Italy, easily comparable to those in Sicily or Sardinia.

The best part about staying in the Tuscany is the little towns though. These picturesque settlements dot the Tuscan landscape here and there – finding them is half the fun. Driving around the countryside, all the way admiring the pastoral beauty of the region, is quite special.

Some of the best Tuscan villages are Volterra, San Gimignano, Montepulciano, Montalcino, Bagni San Filippo, and Chianciano . The wine is exquisite.

Most villages specialize in their own grape varieties. For example, Montalcino has Brunello, and Montepulciano has Vino Nobile.

Distinguished Chianti comes from the region of the same name. Sangiovese is common in all parts of Tuscany.

Backpacking Cinque Terre

Northwest of Florence is one of Italy’s premier destinations: Cinque Terre . Literally meaning “five lands,” Cinque Terre is a series of five coastal villages. Perched romantically upon cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean, these are among the most beautiful towns in Italy!

The five villages that compose Cinque Terre are Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso . Each town offers a slightly different experience but everyone is sure to knock your socks off. Get ready to meander around quaint seaside haunts and ancient stone walls, whose scale has been compared to the Great Wall of China.

There are several beaches around Cinque Terre. Each village should have its own though they vary in size. Notable beaches outside of the towns include Guvano, Fossola , and Persico .

There are several ways to explore Cinque Terre . Public transport links all the villages via bus or train. Getting around by boat is possible but expensive. Driving your own car is not advised as the roads and parking can be maddeningly busy.

One of the best ways to experience Cinque Terre is by walking! You can hike from village to village and stay in each as long as you like. The area isn’t larger either – you could literally walk the entire route in a half-day. Refer to this guide for more information.

Staying in Cinque Terre can be expensive. There are plenty of hostels around though, and I suggest booking them in advance. The best way to save cash is to use one of the many campgrounds in the area. Most of these camps are all outside of Cinque Terre proper but the area is so small that you could easily make daytrips and see all of the top sights.

Backpacking Bologna

Bologna  is a bit of a local secret and receives far fewer visitors than its Tuscan neighbor.  Staying a few days here should be a welcome change of pace.

The city is most famous for its many portic i and hosting the oldest university in the Western world. Lesser known is Bologna’s thriving gastronomic culture and nightlife – both are some of the best in Italy.

The most popular landmarks inside of Bologna are the Towers of the Asinelli and Garisenda, the Fontana di Nettuno, and Piazza Maggiore.

Piazza Maggiore is a hub that affords access to many of Bologna’s most important buildings including City Hall and the Basilica of San Petronio. This area is a convenient place to walk around and shouldn’t take too long.

The best thing to do in Bologna is walk the Via San Luca . Starting at the Porta Saragozza, this porticoed path leads through one of the longest arcades in the world. The porticos are super photogenic and the final view from San Luca Sanctuary is stunning. Check out this post for even more inspiration on things to do in Bologna. 

The evening is when Bologna truly comes alive. People crowd into eateries to sample some of the finest cuisine in Italy. You can find good food anywhere in Bologna. After dinner, the locals fill the streets and drink copiously. The awesomeness of Bologna’s after-hours has given it a reputation of being one of the best party cities in Italy. The top bars are around Piazza Verdi, Via Pratello , and Via Mascarella .

Backpacking Milan

Milan is Italy’s financial hub and champion of all things chic. The city consistently ranks as one of the most influential international cities in art, sport, fashion, business, you name it. It is also one of the most expensive cities in Europe with a very rich economy and some of the most successful enterprises on the entire continent. Backpackers in Milan will marvel at its extravagance but their wallets will shrivel from its prices.

The most important attraction in Milan is the impressive Duomo di Milano. This cathedral is one of the largest of its kind and one of the must-see places in Italy. Starting in the 14th Century, it took over 600 years to complete the construction of the Duomo. To this day, it is one of the grandest examples of Italian architecture.

Other popular landmarks around Milan are the Castello Sforzesco, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, the Church of Sant’Ambrogio, and the Cimitero Monumentale. Milan also has the honor of hosting one of the most famous paintings in the world: the Last Supper . You can (briefly) view the all-mighty piece at the Santa Maria delle Grazie. Tickets are pricey and highly sought-after.

There are so many art galleries and museums in Milan. It’d take a herculean effort to see them all but it’d be a rewarding quest. Don’t be like most visitors and just breeze through – stay in Milan for more than a couple of nights and really take the time to appreciate the underappreciated.

If you’re wanting to get out of the city, then head to a stylish stay in Lake Como , nestled in the Alps. This is a gorgeous alpine lake that has a Riviera-like vibe to it. You can participate in many activities around the lake including kitesurfing, paragliding, canyoneering, and kayaking.

Backpacking Turin

Located at the base of the Alps, Turin is one Italy’s most culturally and economically significant cities. It was once the capital of the first unified state of Italy and, to this day, still maintains an air of regality. Several prototypical Italian enterprises were started in Turin as well including the making of chocolate, cars, and Italian film.

Following World War II, Turin fell into relative obscurity. In recent years though, the city has undergone a renaissance of sorts and is as glorious as ever.

The most prominent feature in Turin is the Mole Antonelliana. Originally a synagogue, this monumental structure hosts the highest stone tower in Europe. Nowadays, the building is a museum for cinema.

Turin has a large number of royal palaces to visit. The most popular are the Royal House of Turin, the Palace of Venaria, and the Palazzo Carignano. Notice that the design of many of these places is more Baroque than Italian.

Outside of the city, there are plenty more royal retreats to visit. Head even farther – towards the Alps – and you’ll end up in the Aosta Valley , which is the gateway to the Gran Paradiso region. The skiing and hiking here is some of the best in Italy.

A lot of Italians like to poke fun or even judge Turin: they think it is a cold and depressing place, akin to Detroit or an Easter bloc city.

Turin is an exceptionally underrated cities in my opinion though. The people, although a bit insular, are way more down-to-earth than most Northerners and the city, although gritty, is honestly beautiful to look at. I’d recommend to anyone to stay a few days in Turin , in a heartbeat.

Backpacking Genoa

Like Bologna, Genoa remains pretty low under the radar. Many who are backpacking in Italy never really find a reason to visit this city. Despite its lack of attention, Genoa is one of the most important economic sectors in Italy. Its port is the busiest in the entire country and, historically, was the launching point of many of Italy’s greatest international expeditions.

Admittedly, there isn’t much in the way of tourist attractions in Genoa. There are a number of museums and mansions to visit here like the Palazzo Ducale, Palazzi dei Rolli, and Palazzo Spinola National Gallery. Most of these buildings are humble compared to the decadent residences of other Italian cities. None of this really matters though.

What makes Genoa really worthwhile is the fact that it appears so unabashed. The city maintains its tourism sector but it isn’t overflowing with tourists like Rome or Venice. Buildings are left to grow old, there’s a constant hum of local chatter, and hookers still freely roam the Old City, even. Genoa doesn’t really care about appearances and, for this reason, it feels like a much more authentic destination.

Being spared the mass of tourists, many people like to think that Genoa is one of the most “Italian” cities in the country. Explore the city a little and you’ll quickly discover that all of the staples of good Italian living are present: EXCELLENT food, a strong sense of culture, and a wealth of opportunity ;). For these reasons, Genoa is one of the best cities in Italy to live in.

Staying in Genoa also means you’ll have ready access to many of the aforementioned northern cities, like Cinque Terre, Milan, and Turin.

Backpacking Venice

Locally referred to as La Serenissima (The Most Serene) and the Queen of the Adriatic , Venice is a jewel of a city that should be on everyone’s must-see list.

Venice is, by-now, a household name, known across the entire world for the magnificence of its civil engineering. The city is spread across 118 islands and each one is connected via a complex system of canals and bridges. Visiting Venice will be an utterly unique experience as it is truly one of the most beautiful places in Italy.

Getting into Venice is a matter of taking public transport over the singular bridge connecting it to the mainland or by simply taking a boat. The latter is obviously more expensive but it can be way more convenient.

Cars are not allowed in the city. If you have one, you can park it at Tronchetto on the outskirts of Venice but the rates are super expensive. Just park on the mainland and take the bus or train – you’ll be glad you did.

Once you’re in the city of Venice, it’s just a matter of walking or taking an (expensive) gondola. If you want to save some cash, the city’s public aquataxis, locally known as Vaporetto , are more affordable and sometimes more convenient.

There is lots to see and do in Venice . Attractions that can’t be missed are the Piazza San Marco, Doge’s Palace, and the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore. Try and visit all of Venice’s most loved bridges including the Bridge of Sighs and the Rialto. Finally, the Grand Canal of Venice probably affords the best views in the entire city.

Accommodation in Venice proper is predictably very expensive. Most people stay across the lagoon in Mestre and then take the train into the old city. This is a perfectly viable way of seeing the city.

It’s often difficult to pick between Florence and Venice if you’re looking for that sweet sweet romance, but Venice when it is quiet is unbeatable. But so is Florence…

…Just go to both 😉

Backpacking Naples

Naples officially marks our entry into Southern Italy. This part of Italy thinks itself very independent from the rest of the country. Seriously, ask the locals – they’ll let you know what they think of their northern comrades in one manner or another. Thankfully, they are still super hospitable, and there are some great places to stay !

Naples is one of the largest metropolises in Italy and is only a few hour’s drive from Rome. The city is well-known for many things like Napolitano pizza, Mount Vesuvius, and endemic crime . Ultimately, Naples is different from most European cities in a lot of ways.

The worthiest attractions in Naples are more towards the edge of the city, particularly in the Chiaia and Vomero districts, and in the area around the Piazza Bellini. Popular sites in Naples include the Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, and Castel Sant’Elmo. The views from Sant’Elmo, in particular, are top-notch.

Naples also has some of the most significant museums and galleries in all of Italy. The National Archaeological Museum hosts the largest collection of Roman architecture in the world and the National Gallery of Naples possesses some truly remarkable examples of Renaissance art.

Of course, no trip to Naples would be complete without a visit to the famous ruins of Pompeii and/or Herculaneum . Of legendary notoriety, Pompeii is a former Roman settlement that was decimated when local Mount Vesuvius blew. The blast was so swift and powerful that people were instantly encased in volcanic plaster. Visitors can still view the bodily remains  today.

If you’re up to the challenge you can also climb the still-active Vesuvius! The hike isn’t terribly daunting though as there’s a road that goes up most of the volcano.

Backpacking the Amalfi Coast

South of Naples is the Amalfi Coast . Stretching from Sorrento to Salerno , the Amalfi Coast is some of the finest coastline in the whole of Italy. The grandeur of this region has attracted myriad international celebrities, both real and fictional. Truly, the Amalfi Coast is one of the must-see places in Italy!

The scene on the Amalfi Coast is this: picturesque towns hang upon cliffs that overlook the sapphire water of the Mediterranean Sea. The villages are painted a rainbow of colors and these are punctuated by the occasional hallowed duomo. Italian splendor at its finest.

There are a lot of different places to visit and base oneself on the Amalfi Coast . Each one offers its own unique charm. Furore is known for its fjord and ornate bridge, while Maiori is famous for having the longest beach. The most popular villages are probably Positano and Amalfi itself. Visit each one and discover their inimitable qualities.

Both the Amalfi and Cinque Terre are super similar. You could probably get away with just seeing one or the other. The biggest between the two is that the latter has more hiking opportunities. There are trails in the Amalfi but they’re in the mountains and away from the coast.

Like Cinque, you should visit the Amalfi Coast without a car. Renting a scooter could be a fun and effective means of getting around if you’re a confident driver. Otherwise, buses service most of the villages.

If you REALLY want to put a cherry on top of your visit here, then consider making a day trip out to the islands of Capri and/or Ischia . Both are easily reached by ferry from Sorrento (1hour) and the beauty of both is well worth the hype.

Backpacking Puglia

The “heel of Italy” – Puglia – has been visited by a myriad of civilizations over the last couple of millennia. The Greeks, Byzantines, Turks, and even the vassals of the Holy Roman Empire have settled here. Thus, Puglia is one of the most culturally diverse regions in Italy. The dialects, here, are as varied as they are difficult to understand. The landscape – a combination of long beaches and sun-baked earth – is also drop dead gorgeous.

The capital of the Puglia region is Bari . It’s an important city that serves as the primary launching pad for the region and for the neighboring Adriatic nations. Most the local landmarks, like the Basilica di San Nicola and Palazzo Fizzarotti, can be found around the labyrinthian Bari Vecchia (Old City). If you are headed to the Balkans you can catch the overnight ferry from Bari to Bar in Montengro. Stay in one of Bari’s best hostels if you want to explore the region for a bit longer.

Brindisi is another important port where you can catch a ferry and commence backpacking Greece. The pure, whitewashed buildings of Brindisi are a staple of the region. Ostuni and Monte Sant’Angelo are also prime examples of this style.

The ocean around Puglia is a ridiculous azure hue and the blazing whites of the Pugilian buildings create a gorgeous juxtaposition with the water. The best coastlines in Puglia are around Lecce and Monopli . Polignano a Mare – which is close to Monopli – is one of the most beautiful beach towns in Italy and shouldn’t be missed.

Backpacking Sicily

Sicily is like a furnace in many ways. Its summers can be oppressively hot. The locals have a fiery passion when comes to their heritage. Also, there’s an extremely active volcano – Mt. Etna – present. If I may say, Sicily is a “blast” to visit. (That will be the only pun, I swear.)

The capital of Sicily is bustling Palermo . Staying in Palermo will be a frenetic experience but it will be worth it once you’ve had your first granita: a kind of ice cream that the locals commonly eat in the morning.

Palermo does suffer somewhat from its ongoing conflict with the mafia , who have a very real presence here – just don’t mention this to the locals .

The second most visited Sicilian city is Catania . Catania is home to some stunning Baroque architecture and the busiest university on the island. Catania has some solid beaches – La Plaja being the longest – and is the base for climbing the temperamental Mt. Etna. Most locals will say that Catanese cuisine is the best part of the city though.

Being an arc of ancient culture, Sicily is full of ruins, particularly those of the Greek variety. The most spectacular of archaeological sites are in Agrigento .

There is so much to do in Sicily – the charming Taormina neighborhoods , the Aeolian Islands , the wine cellars of Marsala – that finding a base will be difficult. I suggest staying in one or two places in Sicily and breaking up your trip. It would be very difficult to see the whole island from just one base.

Backpacking Sardinia

Sardinia : the Italian’s idea of an “island paradise.” Sardinia is one of the most beautiful islands in Italy , arguably more than Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast.

Life in Sardinia is pretty slow and there isn’t a lot of nightlife. The locals have a reputation for being pretty insular as well – don’t expect many bubbly personalities here. This island will mostly appeal to lovers of nature and quiet, as well as those looking to embark on an Italian yoga retreat .

The major cities of Sardinia are Cagliari, Olbia, Sassari . The first two are where the majority of the ferries arrive. These settlements serve as prime entryways for the rest of the island.

The most beautiful beaches in Sardinia are located in the north. These are, seriously, some of the best stretches of sand in the whole of Europe. The coast around La Maddalena, Costa Smeralda, Budoni, Santa Teresa di Gallura, Porto Istana, and the Bay of Orosei are all superlative. Other notable sites, like the multicolored village of Castelsardo and elegant Grotte di Nettuno , are also worth visiting.

The best hiking is towards the center of the island around the Gennargentu National Park . You can refer to the Trekking section for more details on trails in this area.

Sardinia can be hugely expensive, especially in the summer. Ferries tickets and lodging in Sardinia are both pricey. Camping will be the only option for many backpackers. Luckily, Sardinia has an extensive campground system.

Off the Beaten Path in Italy

At #5, Italy is one of the most visited countries in the world. You’d think and sometimes depress over the fact that there’s nowhere in the country where you can escape the tourist hordes. You’d be wrong though. There are parts of Italy that, I shit you not, are empty – not a soul in sight. With a little effort, you’ll be off the beaten path in Italy in no time.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

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Backpacking Eastern Italy

The East of Italy – composed of Umbria, Marche , and Abruzzo – is eerily devoid of foreigners. Hell, there are only a handful of hostels to be found in those last two regions combined . So what’s the deal?

The east of Italy is one of the least populated and untapped areas in the whole country. The potential that these regions have is astounding. The locals know this, as most of the tourists that visit are usually Italian. Any expat that’s been here either knows someone or has done a lot of digging.

Umbria possesses some very significant sites. Perugia is a lovely medieval town with a booming university that makes it actually really fun. Assisi is the birthplace of one of the greatest minds in history and its basilica is a priceless treasure of medieval art. Umbria is also the site for some the Romans’ greatest engineering accomplishments, like the man-made Cascata delle Marmore.

Marche has all the same characteristics that make Tuscany great – medieval villages, pastoral scenery, and great wine included. Notably, the former has more picturesque mountains – the Sibillini – and a more accessible coastline – the Adriatic. Recanati is one of the finest Italian towns that I’ve ever visited. The Beach of the Two Sisters – near Ancona – could give Sardinia a run for its money as well.

Abruzzo is unspoiled. Some have even described the region as one of “ Italy’s last wilderness (s).” The mountainous parks of Gran Sasso and Maiella are full of hiking opportunities. Sulmona, Chieti, and Scanno are all enchanting medieval villages. The beaches of Abruzzo are no slouch either.

Visit any one these regions for a more intimate Italian experience.

Backpacking Southern Italy

Now we’re really in the middle of nowhere. The regions of Molise, Basilicata, and Calabria are some of the least talked about areas in Italy. Some Italians don’t even know where some of these destinations are.

Molise is the newest and probably most neglected region in Italy. It’s sometimes perceived as totally abject and is usually the butt of “wtf is Molise” jokes . To be honest, the attractions in Molise are pretty sparse.

This doesn’t mean that what Molise offers is shit though. One of Italy’s most beautiful archipelagos is the nearby Tremiti Islands, accessible by ferry from Termoli . This island chain is extraordinary and relatively untouched by mass tourism. Back on the mainland, Bagnoli del Trigno is a unique hilltop village that was actually partially cut out of a cliffside.

South of Molise is Basilicata, which, like the former, is relatively empty. Basilicata has received a little international attention though. The village of Matera was recently named the 2019 Cultural Capital of Europe and was a James Bond filming location on the lastest movie. Abandoned Craco has served as a film set for several movies including the Passion of the Christ.

Other destinations in Basilicata are still hidden from the masses. Castelmezzano is a tiny village built defiantly at the base of the craggy Dolomiti Lucane. Melfi is home to a wonderful Norman castle.

Finally, we arrive at the infamous Calabria, which seems to be every Italian’s favorite holiday spot. Calabria is well known amongst Italians (for good and bad) but it still evades foreign attention. The beaches here are probably the best on the mainland. Popular beach towns include Praia a Mare, Tropea, Capo Vaticano, and Pizzo. Scilla, Soverato,  and Caminia maintain relative anonymity.

Backpacking Lesser Known Cities

There are so many cities in Italy that are worth visiting. Most visitors stick to the crowded favorites, which have been outlined in this guide already. If you’re sick of the endless tourists and want to get a taste of the alternative though, these oft-neglected locations make for a great detour.

Below is a list of some lesser-visited cities in Italy. Most of these are very accessible by public transit so you won’t have to rent a car. Also, note that the majority of these locations have multiple forms of backpacker lodging. I’ve included links to all of the relevant accommodation pages for your convenience.

Top Things to Do in Italy

Italy is home to some of the best things to do in the entirety of backpacking Europe … Let’s see what we got!

1. Tour the canals of Venice

See why Venice is considered one of Italy’s best cities to visit! Walk amongst the canals and discover all the secret nooks that the city hides.

2. Experience the Glory of Rome

Rome may be one of the most historically significant cities in the entire world. A walk in this city, around the monuments and ruins, is unlike any other. A trip to Italy isn’t complete without Rome.

3. Hike in the Dolomites

The Dolomites are some of the most beautiful mountains in Europe. Pack a bag and go for a multi-day trek among these imposing peaks.

4. Party in Bologna

Because of its fantastic cuisine and raucous nightlife, Bologna is one the best cities in Italy! The greatest part: it’s a relative unknown amongst the international crowd.

5. Take a wine tour

Italy produces some of the best wines in the world. Drive around one of the many wine regions – like Tuscany or Marche – and sample as many vintages as you can in winery tours around Italy . When travelling Italy, you must take time to sample the good stuff.

6. Relax in a coastal village

Visiting one of the little seaside towns is one of the quintessential Italian experiences. Go exploring and see if you can find a beach all to yourself.

7. Visit a museum or gallery in Italy

Italy hosts some of the most important pieces of fine art in the world. Seeing the likes of the Last Supper or David is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

8. Climb a volcano

Italy is home to some of the most active volcanoes in Europe. Steel yourself, and climb up to the caldera of Etna or Vesuvius to stare into the smoky void.

9. Visit a less popular city

Italy has its fair share of amazing cities – Rome, Florence, and Venice to name a few. There are way more lesser-known cities that are worth seeing though like Genoa, Parma, and Syracuse.

10. Visit the Italian lakes

As well as classic cities, a gorgeous coast and mega mountains, Italy also has a few epic lakes. The most famous, and best Italian lakes , are Lake Garda and Lake Como which are often frequented by the rich and famous.

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Backpacker Accommodation in Italy

Most of Italy’s major destinations will have several hostels to choose from and all of them are of exceptional quality. You’d have to venture pretty far to find an Italian destination without a backpacker lodge. Just keep in mind that they can get pricey in the tourist season !

There are a number of other accommodation types in Italy though, from quaint bed & breakfasts to rural farm stays and luxurious vacation rentals .

If you’re really trying to travel around Italy on a budget, then couchsurfing will be one of your best options. This is a great way to meet some of the locals and experience a more intimate side of Italy too. Travelling Italy becomes more of adventure too!

Honestly though, the best way of sacking up in Italy is by camping . The Italian campgrounds are very well maintained and the vibes here can be fantastic. loved camping in Italy, and so did my wallet.

To help you find the absolute best places to stay in Italy during your backpacking adventure, check out our in-depth article on the best hostels in Italy . There are some true hostel gems in there so give it a look!

Best Places to Stay in Italy

Italy backpacking costs.

At a first glance, Italy looks spenny as fuck . Your biggest outgoing is likely to be accommodation, and during peak season prices can be unpayable.

If you really want to visit Italy on a budget, balance visiting busy tourist hubs with going super remote (try anywhere in Molise), as places to stay are much cheaper, and so is food! People are kinder to tourists too, which goes a long way!

A comfortable budget for backpacking Italy would be around $50-$60 daily. A restaurant meal will cost on average $15 while a panini or snack will be around $4. Most alcoholic drinks will also be around $5-$8, again, depending on when and where you are.

There are lots of ways of saving some cash if you’re backpacking around Italy. Here are some tips and tricks for saving money.

• Go camping – camping is by far the cheapest way of sleeping.
• Couchsurf – it’s very popular in Europe.
• Cook at home – Italian groceries are cheap and of a high quality.
• Buy your own wine – bottles are usually $5.
• Try ride sharing – most of the time, BlaBlaCar will be your cheapest transportation option.
• Find free stuff – there are plenty of free things to do in the cities. Check this guide out here for a good start.
• Backpack with friends – you’ll end up splitting costs.

Like most tourists hotspots, Italy is subject to substantial seasonal rates. Backpacking in Italy during the summer when every other nation is on vacation will definitely be more expensive. Those that really want to travel to Italy on a budget should visit from October-March when prices will be much lower.

A Daily Budget in Italy

Money in italy.

Italy uses the Euro, which is accepted in over twenty-four European nations. As of February 2023, the Euro’s conversion rate is 1=1.06 US dollars.

ATMs and banks can be found throughout Italy, and you should never have a problem withdrawing cash. Most ATMs charge a fee for converting currency, but getting a zero foreign transaction fee card, like a Quicksilver Visa or a Charles Schwab card can keep the costs down!

Even better, the BrokeBackpacker strongly recommends getting Wise (formally transferwise) to save a bunch of cash when roaming around. Wise is a 100% FREE platform with considerably lower fees than Paypal or traditional banks. And it’s even better than Western Union …

Travel Tips – Italy on a Budget

• Camp: Whatever your Italy backpacking route, there should be plenty of gorgeous places to camp. Italy can be a great place to camp in the rural areas. While wild camping is illegal in Italy, you can still find some pretty remote places to camp for free. Check out this post for a breakdown of the best tents to take backpacking. Or, if you’re feeling really adventurous and want to save some cash, consider picking up a backpacking hammock.
• Cook your own food: If you are on a tight budget, you can save money by cooking your own food – I recommend bringing a portable backpacking stove.
• Book your transportation early: Both plane and train tickets are much cheaper if you purchase them in advance.
• Couchsurf: Italians are awesome, and I am so grateful I was able to explore its cities with local friends. Check out Couch surfing to make some real friendships and see this country from the perspective of locals.
• Pack a travel water bottle and save money every day!

Why You Should Travel to Italy with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

The Best Time to Travel to Italy

The best time to visit Italy is in the spring and autumn, during the shoulder seasons.Italy is subject to two distinct climates: a classic Mediterranean one in the south and a milder subtropical one in the north. Both have similar characteristics though having warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters.

Summers in Italy can be really, really hot, especially in the south. Many locations, even those as far north as Bologna, can get well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the middle of August. When I was Florence in 2017, it was a season-high 112.

Winters in Italy are pretty mild. Places of a higher elevation, like those near the Alps, Apennine, and various volcanoes do receive a respectable amount of snow still.

Autumn and spring are probably the loveliest times of year to visit Italy. The Italian spring is characterized by gentle rains and a lushness of the landscape. Note that snow still lingers in mountains in spring and won’t clear until June.

Festivals in Italy

Italy has a good mix of religious, cultural, musical, and agricultural festivals. Regardless of the type of celebration though, Italians go all out and the festivities can get absolutely nutty at times! People throwing fruit at each other, neighborhood gangs getting in turf (fist) fights, thousands crowding into streets while dressed like jesters – these are just a few tastes of how Italians celebrate.

If you want to attend an Italian festival, steel yourself and prepare for the ride of your life!

• Carnevale (February/March) – Italy’s own carnival. Venice’s version is most famous as everyone dresses in masks and harlequin-like outfits.
• Battle of the Oranges (February/March) – The largest food fight in Italy! Takes place in Ivrea.
• Festa della Sensa (May) – Celebration that commemorates Venice’s relationship with the sea. The waters around Venice are packed with civilian boats that range from dingy to epic in appearance.
• La Corsa dei Ceri (May) – One of the greatest religious processions in Italy. Honors Saint Ubaldo, and is held in Gubbio
• Umbria Jazz (July) – One of the most important jazz festivals in the world. Takes place in  Perugia. There’s also a winter version held in Orvieto.
• Palio di Siena (August/September) – Rival neighborhoods in Siena meet and compete in various competitions, most well-known being horse races. Can be quite energetic.
• Harvest Sagre (October-November) – The autumn harvest and food festivals. Nearly every region holds their own around this time.
• Musica dei Popoli (October/November) – A large festival that showcases alternative and folk Italian music. Held in Florence.
• Club to Club (November) – A large electronic festival held in Turin.

What to Pack for Italy

There isn’t really any social or religious stigma when it comes to dressing up in Italy. People wear comfortable clothes in the summer and dress warmly for the winter just like everywhere else. Packing light clothing in the summer is definitely a good idea as it can be very hot during this time in Italy.

The only requirement for dressing in Italy is that you need to look like you give a shit about your appearance. Fashion in Italy is a fairly serious affair. If an Italian is going to be seen in public, they’re going to make damn sure that they look clean and composed. I’ve even known locals to wear a suit and tie to the fucking doctor; I would usually wear a pair of sweats in this situation.

So in conclusion: wear whatever you feel most comfortable in but just make sure that it’s a decent outfit. If you have ratty-ass backpacker clothing (like the kind I wore after backpacking through Africa) make sure you limit how much you wear it. The locals will be much more receptive to a dapper individual.

If you’re looking for some tips, be sure to check out my full Italian packing list . Otherwise, consider bringing less with you and buying some clothes when you arrive.

Essential Items for Backpacking Italy

On every adventure, there are six things I never go traveling without:

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Staying Safe in Italy

While Italy is generally safe , probably the one hazard that everyone considers when backpacking in Italy is the mafia . Let’s clear a few things up.

Firstly: the term mafia isn’t an encompassing word – the mafia actually just refers to the Sicilian branch, which is officially named Cosa Nostra. Secondly: while organized crime in Italy is a very serious problem, they don’t target tourists all that much. Hell, you’ll probably be interacting with syndicate members regularly, and never know it. Besided, there are several ingenious ways to hide your money .

Like any country with an exaggerated criminal presence, it’s best to just stay out of trouble. The only way that you’ll actually be affected by the Italian gangs is if you consciously get involved with them. So don’t worry too much about being the target of a “hit” or having your car blown-up – that stuff only happens in the movies.

Accidents and ‘wrong-place-wrong-time’ moments do happen, but there are several ways to avoid idiocy whilst attempting to stay safe .

Sex, Drugs and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Italy

When it comes to having fun, Italians are a bit nocturnal, much like their Spanish latitude neighbours. Most Italians will take their sweet time before hitting the town – first grabbing an aperitivo, then dinner, then a coffee, and only then will they kick into high gear. By the time they’re ready, it’s already past midnight. Those visiting Italy for the first time may find this process somewhat tedious.

Just because the Italians stay-up late doesn’t mean they necessarily drink more as well. In fact, most Italians are very regimented in their drinking habits. They start with a low-alcoholic drink and then slowly move up the ladder. If someone starts calling for shots though, then it’s serious party business.

Italians also love to drink in public spaces whenever possible. In the wee hours of the night, most of the squares (ironically those adjacent to the churches) will be packed full of people drinking negronis, limoncello, and sambuca. These moments are usually filled with conversation as opposed to drunken disorderliness.

If you find yourself in a social situation where you’re surrounded by merry locals, just be yourself and try not to get too wasted. Italians don’t care for drunks and it’s a quick way to alienate yourself, especially if you’re looking to hook-up. Just be confident and straightforward with them – they’re very receptive to this sort of behavior.

Drugs are dutifully illegal in Italy. If you wanted to score some, you’d best head to clubs. Be careful when soliciting though – many who are looking to buy drugs are taken advantage of and it’s quick to get in touch with the seedy underbelly of the criminal world. So just be careful, and know who you’re buying from.

Travel Insurance for Italy

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

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.

How to Get Into Italy

Being a European nation, Italy is very easy to enter and to move within. Customs are a breeze, transportation is efficient, and onward travel options are numerous. When backpacking Italy, you should have no problem knowing where to go next.

Flying into Rome, Naples, Venice, Florence, or Milan is acceptable, and can result in some surprisingly good prices. As always, I recommend jumping on Skyscanner and checking for those low prices baby, low prices …

…mmm.

Italy borders Slovenia, Austria, Switzerland and France. You can get in through any of these very easily as they are all part of the EU (ok, Switzerland isn’t, but for these purposes, it is), and out again too!

You can even take a boat from Sicily to Tunisia or vice versa, but they will make you check in over 2 hours before departure and it is pretty horrific with no cabin (although super doable for the tough cookies out there). Trust.

Entry Requirements for Italy

As part of an attempt to strengthen borders, all members of the 63 previously visa-free countries must register with the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) from 2024 onwards. While this is not as tedious as a Visa, it’s an extra step that you should complete before arrival.

An ETIAS authorisation is valid for 3 years.

Those who reside in the Schengen Zone only need an EU ID card to enter a neighbouring country. All other world nations require a passport (and ETIAS authorisation).

Most non-EU nations can qualify for a 90-day visa that is valid in any participating European nation. There are always exceptions though, so be sure to check the official website before you start backpacking in Europe.

See here for a list of all European nations in the Schengen Zone. Remember that not every nation in Europe is a part of this agreement.

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How to Get Around Italy

Italy has a very expansive public transportation system. You can get just about anywhere via bus or train.

Buses are cheap, comfortable, and ubiquitous. You can buy a ticket at a local shop or ticket office but your best bet would be to use an online resource, like Bookaway, Flixbus, or Omio.

Also like the rest of Europe, train travel can be a varied experience with multiple classes and departure options. Regional trains are the most affordable type of locomotive travel and usually take a bit more time. High-speed trains are quicker and more expensive, servicing only extra-city routes like Rome-Milan or Bologna-Florence. Like buses, it’s best to buy a ticket ahead of time, preferably online (you can get a sim card for Italy easily).

Renting a car is a great way to explore Italy at your own pace. You can sort your car rental here in just a few minutes. Booking in advance is the best way to ensure you score the lowest price and your choice of vehicle. Often, you can find the best car rental prices when you pick up the rental from the airport.

Make sure you also purchase a RentalCover.com policy to cover your vehicle against any common damages such as tires, windscreens, theft, and more at a fraction of the price you would pay at the rental desk.

Italian highways are very modern and navigable. Italians drive on the right side of the road. Try to avoid driving in cities where congestion becomes a problem. Some, like Florence and Venice, won’t even allow vehicles in the center.

Note that drivers can be subject to a lot of fees. Toll gates are numerous and almost unavoidable while driving on the main highways. Traffic cameras are also ubiquitous and will ticket you for even the most minor of infractions. Fuel is also quite expensive in Italy by European standards, so much so that many Italians have resorted to driving alternative fuel vehicles that use methane and electricity.

Hitchhiking is very difficult in Italy. Most Italian drivers won’t even bother to stop unless, for some reason, they know you. If you do get a ride, it’s probably because a fellow tourist has taken pity on you.

Campervan Hire in Italy

A great way to backpack Italy is with a van. Campervans are awesome. Few things in life get me as excited as a good road trip in a campervan. Traveling in Italy by campervan is bound to be a fantastic experience. Renting a campervan in Italy is easy too.

There are so many off-the-beaten-path adventures to be had in Italy. Campervan hire is your key to adventure (and comfort)!

Onwards Travel from Italy

Italy shares friendly borders with nearly every country in its vicinity and these can be crossed via plane, train, automobile, ferry, you name it.

Those coming and going from one of the Schengen countries will have the least trouble crossing borders. Buses and trains link Italy directly with France, Switzerland, Austria, and further to Germany, and Spain.

Those who want to go backpacking in Greece afterwards should utilize one of the many convenient ferries that cross the Adriatic Sea. Ferries also link Italy with other non-Schengen Adriatic countries like Croatia, Albania, and Montenegro. Brindisi and Bari are the most obvious (and straightforward) ports.

Really, there are no trains towards eastern Europe, even the stunning Slovenia . However, it’s very possible to grab a bus in this direction, and you can get pretty far, pretty quick like this!

Working in Italy

Trying to be a digital nomad in Rome or Florence will kill your bank account, but Italy can be great if you go off the beaten track, especially in lesser-known regions. There are no special visas available, and cafes are usually without extra plug sockets. That said, data coverage is strong, and there are some awesome places to work from!

If your heart is REALLY set on working in Italy, though, Global Work and Travel may be able to help. With opportunities to Teach English, Au Pair, or Tutor, Global Work and Travel assist you with the VISA process and offer a pretty sweet support system throughout your stay, whatever option you choose.

Volunteering in Italy

Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst giving something back. There are loads of different volunteer projects in Italy ranging from teaching, to animal care, to agriculture to pretty much everything!

Italy is a wealthy and well-developed country, so volunteers from abroad aren’t necessarily in high demand. Most opportunities you’ll find are in hospitality and housekeeping, which usually provide free meals and accommodation in return. You won’t need a specific visa if you plan on volunteering for less than 90 days, but non-EU residents will need to apply for one if they’re staying long-term. 

If you want to find volunteering opportunities in Italy, then we recommend that you Signup for Worldpackers –  a volunteer platform that connects local hosts directly with traveling volunteers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10 when you sign up. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers are usually very well-managed and reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering, do stay vigilant especially when working with animals or children.

Italian Culture

You can’t backpack through Italy and not form some kind of an impression about the people. Italian behavior is, by now, well documented by popular culture. The close-talking, the animated body language, the frankness of the conversation – most of these stereotypes are actually pretty spot-on.

When interacting with an Italian, the first thing that you may notice is that they have little regard for personal space. They will make physical contact quite casually with others e.g. put a hand on your shoulder or kiss a cheek. Keep an eye out for their gestures as well as Italians throw around their arms and hands in an overly excited way sometimes. Don’t feel threatened – it’s just how Italians communicate.

Because of their directness, Italian men may appear overly machismo or degrading when they interact with women. To be honest, most Italian men that I’ve met are actually very respectful of the opposite sex. It’s only a few bad apples that get the attention and, in defence of Italian men, every country has asshole dudes.

At the end of the day, Italians have a pretty good sense of humor when it comes to their idiosyncrasies. Don’t be afraid to talk to them about their behavior as they love to explain themselves.

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Useful Travel Phrases for Italy

Did you know that “certified Italian” is only spoken in the center of Italy – around Rome – and that there are, in fact, 34 other languages and dialects that are officially recognized? Yee, Italy sometimes has problems communicating.

Most Italians will comment on how they can’t understand their neighbors and how frustrating it is. A person from Milan would probably have a lot of difficulty when talking to a Sicilian because their dialects are so different. For those backpacking through Italy, this can make things difficult as a lot of the Italian that they’ve learned will become redundant depending on where they are.

There are, of course, certain staples of the Italian language that will always be universal though. Learning a few of them will be better than knowing nothing at all. Below, I have written the pronunciations for a few helpful Italian phrases with English translations.

If speaking Italian proves to be too difficult, English is still widely spoken in most of the larger cities and by the majority of the youth. Certain regions that share a border with another European nation will also speak more of that particular country’s language. For example, many people from the Valle d’Aosta region speak French while those from Trentino use a local dialect of German.

• Piacere – nice to meet you
• Come va? – how are you?
• Mi può aiutare? – can you help me?
• Quanto costa? – how much does that cost?
• Un caffé, per favore – one coffee, please
• Buon Giorno / Buona sera / Buona notte – good morning/ good evening/ goodnight
• Mi scusi – excuse me
• Nessun sacchetto di plastica – No plastic bag
• Nessuna cannuccia per favore – No straw please
• Nessuna posate di plastica per favore – No plastic cutlery please
• Come ti chiami? – what’s your name?
• mi chiamo… – My name is…
• Tutto bene – all’s well
• Grazie mille – thank you so much

What to Eat in Italy

Most of the Italian food that foreigners eat is pretty generic and bland. Those visiting Italy for the first time will be happy to hear that the authentic stuff is much better and totally worth it; actually, it’s fucking fantastic.

The key to good Italian cooking is using limited ingredients. Don’t call Italian food simple though – it’s really amazing how diverse the cuisine can be with so few parts. Most dishes only have 3-4 components and using anymore is considered overkill. As one Italian put it while they were watching me make a meal with 5+ ingredients: “you’re shitting outside of the toilet.”

Pasta is, of course, one the most popular Italian dishes and it’s classically served for lunch. Pizza is widely adored though some Italians are irritated by tourists’ constant request for them. Here’s a tip to avoid the local’s ire: don’t order pizza at a restaurant; order one at a pizzeria. Italians only eat pizza in pizzerias.

These are only the basic food groups though. There are hundreds (maybe thousands) of Italian dishes hailing from every corner of the country. Each corner of Italy will have its own version as well i.e. pizza in Naples is very different from pizza in Milan.

Cooking is an integral part of Italian identity. One could easily spend their entire journey dedicated to just exploring Italian cuisine and they would be better off than most.

Popular Italian Dishes

For those that are ready to begin their culinary expedition, I’ve created a list of ten of the must-try foods in Italy. Each item is followed by the region that it originated from.

• Tortellini  (Emilia-Romagna)  – pasta dumplings stuffed with ricotta and acacia flower.
• Frico  (Friuli Venezia Giulia)  – baked dish w/ cheese and potatoes.
• Lagane  (Basilicata)  – wide pasta w/ chickpeas, garlic, and oil.
• Pizza Napolitana  (Campania)  – pizza made (specifically) with San Marzano tomatoes and Mozzarella di Bufala.
• Orecchiette  (Puglia)  – pasta that resembles a “small ear.”
• Pilao  (Sardinia)  – rice prepared with various ingredients; similar to pilaf.
• Pasta con sarde  (Sicilia)  – pasta w/ sardines, raisins, pine nuts, fennel, and saffron.
• Risotto  (Milano)  – slow cooked rice w/ butter, saffron, and produce.
• Strudel  (Trentino)  – made w/ apples, pine nuts, raisins, and cinnamon.
• Abbacchio  (Lazio)  – pan-fried meats w/ herbs, olive oil, and white wine.
• Polenta  (Valle d’Aosta)  – boiled cornmeal that is then pressed into blocks.
• Bisi  (Veneto)  – rice and peas.
• Olive all’Ascolana  (Marche)  – fried olives that are stuffed w/ meats.

Books to Read While Backpacking Italy

These are some of my favorite travel reads and books set in Italy, which you should consider picking up before you begin your backpacking adventure…

• Under the Tuscan Sun – One of the original travel novels that promoted Tuscany as a tourist destination.
• I, Claudius – A semi-autobiographical novel concerning one of Rome’s most unlikely emperors, Tiberius Claudius, who witnessed the rise and fall of some the Empire’s most notorious figures.
• Gomorrah – The best-selling novel that seeks to expose the corruption and inner dealings of Naple’s major crime syndicate, the Camorra. Now a hit TV show.
• If on a Winter’s Night a Traveler – Italo Calvino was one of the most influential writers of the 20th century. This novel is a collection of his most regarded short stories.
• My Brilliant Friend – A triumph of Italian literature. The story of two friends as they try to live their lives in post-WWII Naples.

Brief History of Italy

The history of Italy is one of the most impressive sagas in human civilization. Most people know of Italy’s greatest contributions like the Roman Empire and Renaissance. Oddly enough though, the history of modern Italy isn’t discussed much for one reason or another.

The current state of Italy can be traced back to the 19th century when the various Italian states, who had been warring for almost half of a millennia, began to unify. Under a collection of ambitious individuals – including Victor Emmanuel II and Giuseppe Garibaldi – Italy would be whole again for the first time in ages.

Neighboring France played a large role in the Risorgimento (Revival) of a unified Italy thanks to the French Revolution, which inspired many revolutionaries, and to the foreign aid that they provided, which helped Italy overcome costly wars against Austria. When Rome was retaken in 1870, the Risorgimento was complete and the Kingdom of Italy was born.

For the next forty years, Italy would undergo a process of reorganization in an attempt to join the modern world. At the onset of World War I, they had, ultimately, done a very poor job and were extremely ill-equipped. After famously bowing out of the conflict, things got worse for the country.

Fascism rose in the wake of WWI. Benito Mussolini became the most powerful man in the country and quickly allied himself with Adolf Hitler. Long story short: World War II kicked-off, and we all know how that ended up.

Since WWII, Italy has struggled in its attempts to recapture its former glory. There have been moments of great prosperity but these have been tarnished by greater economic hardship, corruption, and political dissonance. At the moment, Italy’s current political state is still a bit of a question mark.

Some Unique Experiences in Italy

You can get up to some absolute antics in Italy, especially if you jump aboard the European spirit of flirting with the outdoors and unexpected interactions…

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Hiking in the Dolomites

The Dolomites are some of the most stunning mountains in the world! A subsection of the Alps, the Dolomites are characterized by their jagged carbonate peaks that often resemble towers, teeth or even talons.

The Dolomites is a mecca for outdoors enthusiasts who want to backpack through Italy. There are thousands of trails crisscrossing this region and hikers can spend weeks in the mountains here.

The Dolomites benefit from an awesome public transport system. You can get to just about any trail with a bus, which eliminates the need for a car. Once you’re in the mountains, you’ll obviously have to hoof it from camp to camp.

Accommodation usually comes in the form of rifugi, which are essentially mountain huts. These huts offer bunk beds and, depending on what you paid, 1-3 meals a day. The food of the rifugi, which is a mix of Italian and German cuisine, is surprisingly delicious.

Rifugi can be expensive at $50-$100/night. Those who want to save some cash can bivvy so long as they do so in an inconspicuous manner. Wilderness backpackers will probably have to pack their own food as well because the rifugi usually have only enough food to feed their guests.

For those who want to learn more about the Dolomites, I suggest picking up this book . It’s one of the most informative ones that I’ve found.

Hiking in the Apennine Mountains

The Apennine Mountains are located in the center of Italy and stretch from Genoa to Calabria. Spread across this mountain chain are several different Italian national parks that offer great hiking opportunities.

The Sibillini Mountains , located in the Marche region, are not as tall as the Alps or as dramatic as the Dolomites – the landscape of the Sibillini is slightly gentler and very pastoral. The wildflowers and meadows here can be spectacular though. The Sibillini is also much, much quieter compared to the Alps. Those interested in walking here can refer to this webpage outlining all the most popular trails in the area.

South of the Sibillini is Gran Sasso in Abruzzo. The highest peak in the area is Como Grande, whose distinct profile is often seen from miles away. Despite having prime conditions for hiking and skiing, the Gran Sasso receives very few visitors. This is very surprising considering that the park is only a few hours drive from Rome.

Hiking in Sicily

Much like Sardinia, Sicily offers some great walks that go from sea to sky, the latter coming in the form of active volcanoes!

The best place to go hiking in Sicily is around the Aeolian Islands where you’ll get a good mix of beach and mountain trails. Stromboli , the local volcano, is the most popular trek here as hikers are afforded the chance of seeing an active crater, noxious fumes and spitting lava included. Those looking for something more pleasant will find plenty of beauty along the coastline outside of Lipari .

More great trails can be found around the Vendicari Reserve, Zingaro Reserve, and Mt Etna . Interested backpackers can head to this website for a brief overview of several Sicilian hikes.

Scuba Dive Italy on a Liveaboard Trip

Love Scuba Diving? Taking a Liveaboard trip in Italy might just be the thing for you.

For diving lovers, there might not be a better way to get the full Italian diving experience than joining a Liveaboard trip.

On a Liveaboard trip you spend your days exploring the best dive sites in any given area. Nights are spent eating tasty food and socializing with fellow dive maniacs.

Be sure that in Italy, Liveaboard trips are not the cheapest endeavors. That said, a Liveaboard trip is the way to go if you are looking to spend a chunk of time diving and exploring.

Joining an Organized Tour in Italy

For most countries, including Italy, solo travel is the name of the game. That said, if you are short on time, energy, or just want to be part of an awesome group of travelers you can opt to join an organized tour. Joining a tour is a great way to see a majority of the country quickly and without the effort that goes into planning a backpacking trip. However—not all tour operators are created equal—that is for sure.

G Adventures  is a solid down-to-earth tour company catering to backpackers just like you, and their prices and itineraries reflect the interests of the backpacker crowd. You can score some pretty sweet deals on epic trips in Italy for a fraction of the price of what other tour operators charge.

Check out some of their awesome  itineraries for Italy  here…

FAQs on Backpacking Italy

Here’s what people usually ask us about travelling around Italy.

Is Backpacking through Italy a good idea?

Recognising that as a travel writer, I’m obligated to say yes, it’s still a yes. Backpacking through Italy is a great idea! Be sure to do your research beforehand though, and bring a tent if you are an exceptionally broke backpacker! Oh, and get authorised by ETIAS (starting May 2023).

What are the Best Places to Visit in Italy for Backpackers?

Starting from the top! 1. Rome – Obvious, brilliant, and buzzy! 2. Florence – Artsy, mercantile romantic 3. Venice – boats man! 4. Milan – racing, fashion, and better looking people than anywhere else 5. Bologna – underrated, vibey 6. Cinque Terre – seaside, quaint, beautiful; 7. Tuscany – wine region (enough said) 8. Turin – More royal palaces than people 9. Genoa – another underrated gemstone 10. Naples – unbeatable going out scene (and other old stuff)

Where are the Best Places to go Backpacking in Europe?

At the top of the list: Greece, Italy, Spain, Croatia, Portugal, France, and England . Why? You’ve got to start somewhere, and if you’ve never been to Europe, this is it! If you asked me in confidence, however, and for those backpacking Europe with a little more experience, I would send you over to eastern Europe. Stuff gets weird there, and I love it.

What are the Best Things to do in Italy?

In my humble opinion, the best things to do in Italy are: 1. Visit the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and the ancient ruins scattered through the streets of Rome 2. Get involved in Naples nightlife (a wild, wild time) 3. Go skiing! Italy has some pretty wicked slopes! 4. Climb up the famous Pompeii volcano (although it might be active, I’m not sure) 5. Take a relaxing break in Cinque Terre, one of the most beautiful parts of Italy.

Final Advice Before Visiting Italy

Italy’s one of those rare countries that live up to their grandiose reputation. Everything here is justifiably hyped – the food is amazing, the people are a riot, the history is vibrant, and the landscape is drop-dead gorgeous. Sounds like the makings of a brilliant trip, right?

Backpacking Italy will be one of the best times of your life. You’ll be able to choose from a myriad of attractions and, at times, face some pretty harrowing prices. Stick with this budget travel guide to Italy though, and you’ll be armed with everything that you could possibly need.

Italy is a relatively open-minded country. Yes, it can be pretty dogmatic and, yes, the locals can appear intimidating at times (because they’re so goddamn stylish). If you treat everyone with respect and dignity though (as you always should) then you’ll be accepted with open arms.

• Backpacking Spain Travel Guide
• Volunteering at Hostels
• Quitting Your Job to Travel the World
• Jobs to Make Money While Travelling

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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PLEASE TELL ME THE TITLE OF YOUR BOOK, THE ISBN # AND WHERE TO GET IT.

MY DAUGHTER IS BACKPACKING THRU ITALY AND COULD DEFINITELY USE YOUR BOOK.

You can sign up here to access it

Dear Mr. Cope, congratulation to this gripping and inspiring travel guide. I am already stoked for an Italy adventure! I’m not a particular history geek but still, in the paragraph regarding the region of Puglia you are mentioning the near by city Gallipoli being an important battlefield in WW1. I belief you confused it with the Turkish peninsular Gallipoli (Dardanells) on which the Entente launched an invasion into Ottoman territory in the so called “Gallipoli campaign”. The battles resulted in a devastating loss for the Allies and severe casualties on both sides.

You’re absolutely right! I don’t know how I managed to confuse the two. The Gallipoli in Italy is much more about the beach than the history to be fair. Absolutely fantastic coastline though if you manage to get down there!

Thanks again for pointing this out.

We’ve always wanted to do Italy but only knew about the bigger tourist attractions so it’s great to hear there are some hidden gems as well. We’ll be saving this for our trip to look back on for advice. Thanks.

Nice and interesting post. Thanks for sharing and keep it up!

This Is Very Usefull For Us Thankyou Sir

Ralph sir, well this was indeed just the blog I needed to read when I’m on the verge of planning a trip to Italy this Spring. The exquisite thing about this blog is its categorization that has been planned and jotted down in just the right way. For they say take the road less travelled and you sure are helping us do that and that too in such an informative way by providing all the possible details a traveller is looking for at that hour. I’ll also make sure to add up on my checklist the things you mentioned to be carried along when on a trip to Italy. I sure am excited much to go to Italy after reading this blog and it’ll be great if you could help me out in planning a trip. P.S- Those dishes are getting my mouth watered already.

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23 Must-Know Italy Travel Tips to Plan Your Dream Trip

D o you constantly think to yourself “I want to go to Italy!” as you scroll through social media looking at colorful cliffside villages and huge plates of pasta on gingham tablecloths? You’re not alone! Italy is one of the most beautiful countries in existence. From visiting big cities like Rome and Milan to the Riviera and countryside of Tuscany, everyone should get the opportunity to take a trip to Italy and experience la dolce vita at least once.

Despite the fact that Italian cuisine and culture are popular around the world, visiting Italy is a completely different ball game. This guide covers all the essential travel tips for Italy you need to know before visiting for the first time so you can avoid common travel mistakes.

It can be a surprisingly conservative country with unexpected own laws and rules. Let’s not even get started on the rules and traditions around food and drink yet! Knowing these basic Italy travel tips will allow you to focus your attention on buying cute leather handbags in Florence or sailing on Lake Como instead.

Don’t have time to read a bunch of reviews and blog posts? Here are our top picks for visiting Italy:

Get an Easy Italy Itinerary

Need a quick day-by-day, open-and-go itinerary for Italy? This guide does the work for you!

Awesome hotels in Italy

• Rome :  Hotel Artemide
• Venice :  Palazzo Madonna
• Florence :  Hotel Santa Maria Novella
• Amalfi Coast:   Hotel Villa Garden
• Cinque Terre :  Il Sogno di Manarola
• Tuscany :  Agriturismo Farm Stay

Fantastic tours in Italy

• Rome Vespa Tour
• Venice Walking Tour & Gondola Ride
• Tuscany Tour from Florence
• Pompeii with an Archaeologist
• Cinque Terre Boat Cruise

Renting a Car in Italy?

If you want to see the Italian countryside, I recommend you drive yourself. We prefer to use  Rental Cars  and  Expedia Cars .  We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available. Be sure to read these tips for renting a car in Italy .

Book a photoshoot

We always love to book a photoshoot when we’re traveling. As a mom, it’s tough to get in photos since I’m always behind the camera. We use Flytographer to capture our memories. You can get $25 off your shoot by booking at this link or using code FAMILYVOYAGE.

1. Northern and Southern Italy are Very Different

Italy wasn’t even a country until 1861 when most of the current 20 regions of Italy were united. 150 years isn’t a long time when you think about it, so each region is still totally different from each other. This variety is part of the fun of traveling to Italy and what keeps tourists returning again and again!

To put things simply, Northern Italy is very different from Southern Italy. Most of the reasons behind this are economic and employment-based, but there are other differences you’ll notice too.

Much of the landscape of Northern Italy is Alpine and lush with lots of vineyards, whereas the south is much hotter and has a stronger Mediterranean vibe. Both areas are worth visiting on your trip to Italy, but your style of travel and interests will dictate the best regions to visit.

2. Consider these Italian Destinations for Your Trip

Let’s dig into some of the most incredible places to visit! If you’ve never visited Italy before, the entire country is your oyster, so this is a breakdown of just some of the most popular Italian travel destinations.

Italian Cities

• Rome – Italy’s iconic capital, you can also visit Vatican City
• Milan – International hub where you can visit Lake Como and Lake Maggiore
• Venice – Storied canal-laden city close to Verona and Lake Garda
• Florence – Heart of the Renaissance where you can take a day trip to Siena
• Naples – Birthplace of pizza and close to Mount Vesuvius
• Cinque Terre – Colorful cliffside villages on the Italian Riviera
• Tuscan Countryside – One of the best wine regions lined with cypress trees
• Italian Alps – Closely resembles Switzerland with lots of winter sports
• Amalfi Coast – Romantic cobblestone villages and beach resorts (pictured above)
• Sicily – Blend of Greece, Spain, and Italy with delicious street food

Check out the Amalfi Coast or Cinque Terre if you’re traveling as a couple in the warmer months. Families can head to the major cities with lots of kid-friendly activities and take day trips to the countryside.

Read more: Where To Go In Italy With Kids [& Important Planning Tips]

3. Book Tickets to Popular Tourist Attractions in Advance

If you’re visiting any of the big cities in Italy, this is one Italy travel tip you should take. Most of the top museums, galleries, and landmarks will sell a limited number of tickets with time slots in advance. If you aren’t organized, you will have to line up on the day and potentially wait for an hour or more in the baking hot sun.

These are attractions like the Colosseum in Rome , Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence , and the Vatican Museums in Vatican City . It’s understandable that you don’t want to over plan your vacation, but just having tickets to the must-see attractions will make your trip much more enjoyable.

However, you can’t buy tickets to some of the top free attractions, like the Duomo in Florence and St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, for example. Consider if it’s worth booking a guided tour to skip those lines. For the St. Peter’s in particular it’s a really good idea to book a skip-the-line tour in advance as the wait can stretch on for ages! Check the availability calendar below and be sure to snag your tickets:

There’s one attraction where you will have to buy tickets in advance with no exceptions. There are only a finite amount of people able to see The Last Supper painting by Leonardo Da Vinci in Milan each day. Again, you can book a guided tour if the public sale tickets are sold out – that option will also provide a lot more context to your visit!

4. Expect a Tourist Tax on Accommodation When Visiting Italy

When traveling Italy, you’ll quickly realize that all accommodations have to charge a tax for tourists by law. The amount will depend on the quality of your stay (e.g. hostel or luxury resort), the number of people on your booking, the number of nights, and which Italian city you’re visiting. Yes, this includes short-term rental apartments like Airbnbs!

For example, the tax ranges between €3 to €7 per person, per night in Rome. It normally needs to be paid in cash upon arrival. While it’s not a huge amount, if you’re traveling to Italy on a budget I don’t want you to be surprised! For a family of four spending 10 days in Italy it could easily add up to several hundred dollars.

5. Apartment Rentals and Hotels Will Ask for Copies of Your Passport

It’s normal for tourists to present their international identification (passport) when staying at a hostel or checking into a hotel room. But if you have booked an apartment rental for your trip to Italy, they will also ask for a photo of your passport page. If you have an in-person check-in, they might take a photo of it themselves.

This might seem a little suspicious, but it’s the law! They’re not going to use your passport information for anything other than passing it on to the local authorities.

6. You need to carry your passport with you at all times

Speaking of passports…

While there’s some debate about whether you need to bring your original passport with you rather than a copy, one thing’s for certain: by law, you can be stopped at any time in Italy and asked to show your passport or legal identification issued by your national government – a US drivers license is not sufficient.

Bringing your passport around with you can be nerve-wracking, as there is a risk of pickpocketing in Italy (as in all populated areas). You’ll want to make sure it’s in a secured inner pocket of your day bag. Wear it close to your body in the front, or on your side but with your hand on it at all times. The bag above is great because the inner compartments are secured by both a zipper and a flap.

7. Get an International Driving Permit to Drive in Italy

When planning your epic vacation, you’ll need to figure out how to travel in Italy. Car rental is a great choice, particularly if you have lots of luggage or want to visit remote destinations.

There are a few unique things to consider before renting a car in Italy . Other European countries may not have this requirement, but all non-EU drivers must present an international driving license when hiring from an Italian car rental company. They only cost around $20 and are super easy to get from AAA before you leave home.

You should also ensure you have extensive vehicle and travel insurance before getting a rental car. Narrow, winding Italian roads and reckless Italian drivers can make for a challenging car trip!

We use our Chase Sapphire Reserve for car rentals because it offers great primary insurance (meaning our own insurance wouldn’t get involved in a claim) and doesn’t exclude Italy. There’s also no foreign transaction fee and solid lounge access overseas. If you only have one travel credit card in your wallet, it’s a great choice!

8. Avoid Taxis – Most Italian Cities Are Walkable

It’s totally understandable if you’d rather not navigate the Tuscan rail network after a 10+ hour flight with lots of luggage and multiple kids. That’s what pre-arranged airport transfers are for! Beyond that, opt for public transport or walk so you can avoid taking taxis altogether (if you’re able).

In my experience it can be challenging in some place to hail taxis off the street in many cities, leaving you to order one through your hotel or head to the nearest station for a taxi stand. Uber and other ride-share companies are still in their infancy and the traffic in some cities will make you’d wish you were walking anyway.

One of the best pieces of Italy travel advice is to walk when and where you can. Almost every historic city center in Italy is walkable (wear comfy shoes) and Google Maps will help you get around. You’ll see more side streets, charming churches, and allow for more spontaneous travel experiences.

9. Learn Italy’s Coffee Rules to Avoid a Faux Pas

Wait, you can’t just drink coffee whenever and wherever you like?! You can, but in the spirit of ‘do as the Romans do’, you may want to put down that venti iced latte and assimilate to Italy’s coffee-drinking routine while you’re on vacation.

Generally speaking, Italians drink espresso by default. If you ask for a caffè in a coffee shop, you will be presented with one shot of black coffee. Macchiatos are becoming more and more common, and these are double-shot espressos with a dollop of foamed, hot milk.

For Italians, a cappuccino or other milk-heavy coffee drink is a breakfast drink. They wouldn’t be caught dead ordering one after lunch.

10. Train Travel Is the Best Way to Get Around Italy

One of the best tips for traveling in Italy is to embrace train travel. Italy has an extensive public transport system and despite the odd strike or delay, it is affordable and super easy to understand. We’ve used the train for long-distance legs like Venice to Florence as well as day trips like Florence to Cinque Terre.

There are two main train companies: Trenitalia and Italo Treno, but there are others too. You can find a great explanation and book your tickets here . When traveling Italy between cities on an Italo Treno service, you need to buy your train ticket in advance to get a seat. For regional train tickets, you can buy them at the train station and sit in any free seat. That’s it!

Once upon a time, you needed to validate your ticket at the train station by using a date stamping machine on the platforms, but this is becoming obsolete. Download the Trenitalia app and screenshot your tickets.

Busy train stations might make you feel overwhelmed, but there are always information desks that can help you find your platform.

Read more: How to Travel to Italy on a Budget

11. Bring a Refillable Water Bottle for Drinking Fountains

Put the bottled water back on the shelf and take advantage of the clean, free, and fresh drinking water available in some of Italy’s major cities. One of the top pieces of travel advice for Italy is to bring a reusable water bottle and only drink tap water while on vacation.

Rome is particularly famous for its 2,500 drinking fountains as the Ancient Romans worshipped water like a god. Venice, Verona, Pisa, Florence, Sorrento, Capri, and many other cities have these fountains.

By law, local authorities have to put a sign up if a fountain is not safe to drink. If there’s no sign, there’s no problem!

12. Adapt to Italian Dining and Eating Habits

Aside from not drinking bottled water, there are other eating and dining habits unique to Italy.

Many Italians opt to eat a light breakfast of espresso with a sweet pastry. Traditionally, workers ate their light breakfast while standing at the counter of a coffee shop. One of the top Italy travel tips is that you do the same as it’s such a fun, local experience!

Beyond Italian breakfast, something else that some Italian restaurants do is include a ‘cover charge’ on your bill which is not a mandatory tip like it is in some countries. This extra cost is for fresh bread and sometimes sparkling water for the table. If you don’t want any bread or water, tell your server when they first bring it over.

Some Italians still go to their local market for fruit, vegetables, fish, and meat instead of a supermarket. If you are staying in an apartment and want to make your own food, consider shopping at a local market too.

13. Wear Conservative Clothing When Visiting Churches

You can’t walk two minutes without passing an ornate church in this country, and so many of the top landmarks are churches too. One key Italy travel tip is to pack conservative clothing or keep a light scarf in your backpack for extra coverage as necessary.

Most churches require visitors to cover their chests and shoulders. Exposed knees aren’t usually an issue, but booty shorts are a no-no.

14. Italy Is Not Warm Year-Round – Check the Local Weather

Speaking of clothing, you may need to rethink your wardrobe depending on where and when you are going to Italy. While it’s warm and dry during the summer months, you’d be surprised how cold Italy can get in the north.

One of the top, essential Italy travel tips is to check the weather forecast just before you leave. Pack at least one pair of long pants and a light sweater even if the weather looks warm in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall.

Read more: What to pack for Italy in Fall

15. Avoid Common Travel Scams in Big Cities in Italy

Every popular tourist destination has its fair share of pickpockets and travel scammers. Watch out for them when walking through a historic city center, like Piazza San Marco in Venice for example, and keep your belongings and valuables secure at all times.

One of the most infamous is the ‘friendship bracelet’ scam. Someone will attempt to tie strings around your wrist and say it is free until it’s knotted and they will ask for payment. Approaching you with a ‘free’ flower and making your partner pay up is another.

Leaving a small cup of change or postcards on the ground for you to accidentally walk across and seek compensation is a popular scam in Florence especially!

16. Public Bathrooms Are Almost Never Free

While public bathrooms are usually plentiful and free in the US, that’s not the case everywhere.

One of the best travel tips for Italy is to make use of cafe and restaurant bathrooms whilst dining. Keep some coins on you if nature calls and you need to use a public bathroom as there is almost always a charge. Even in train stations!

17. Follow These Tips for Choosing the Best Gelaterias

Not all Italian gelato is created equal. These Italy travel tips will help you choose only the best homemade, artificial flavor-free gelato made on the premises.

If the gelato is piled too high in the container, it’s been artificially ‘fluffed up’. Silver containers are a good sign as that’s how it gets transported from the kitchen to the shop. Look for natural colors i.e. pistachio is naturally an olive color and banana gelato should look almost white.

18. Drinking Wine Is Cheap and the House Wine Is Great

Do you love Italian wine? You’re in luck! Italian wine is sold in every restaurant and supermarket in the country. Head to Tuscany if you love Italian red wine and Veneto if you prefer white wine or sparkling.

House wine (known as vino della casa in Italian) doesn’t have the stigma of being the cheapest, worst wine on the menu either. Yes, house wine is still cheap and it’s not the best, but it’s usually either the restaurant’s own label or from a local vineyard. Many Italians will order this vino every time they dine out.

Italian wine is overall much cheaper than it is abroad too. Win-win!

19. Bring a Travel Credit Card and Cash – You’ll Need Both!

One of the essential travel in Italy tips you need to know is about money. Italy uses the euro and it’s a smart idea to carry both travel-friendly credit cards and cash.

What makes a credit card travel-friendly? For starters, be sure there’s no foreign transaction fee – usually you’ll need a card that charges an annual fee to get that critical feature. I recommend one like the Chase Sapphire Reserve that has really good travel insurance and emergency medical coverage. We used it all over the world and never had an issue, and the points we accumulated let us keep traveling longer!

If you usually use American Express, bring an alternative because many Italian vendors won’t accept them. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted by hotels, restaurants, and stores but bring cash for tips, accommodation tax, and other small purchases.

Just don’t carry too much cash – if you get pickpocketed, your travel insurance will only cover so much.

20. Learn Some Basic Italian Phrases When You Visit Italy

You likely already know a couple of Italian words, but these visiting Italy travel tips will clue you up on the basis so you can throw in the odd phrase when chatting to servers and locals:

• Good morning – Buongiorno
• Goodbye – Arrivederci
• Informal Hi/Bye – Ciao
• Please – Per favore
• Thank you – Grazie
• Excuse me – Mi scusi

Just as long as you don’t accidentally say gracias instead of grazie , you’ll be doing better than some! (I admit to making that mistake myself – as a French and Spanish speaker, the languages are so similar that my brain sometimes runs on autopilot.)

21. Dine Away from Piazzas and Eat Regional Italian Food

One of the simplest Italy travel tips is to avoid eating at restaurants in piazzas in big cities.

By all means, order a cocktail and enjoy people-watching. But you’ll find cheaper, better Italian food a block away down a side street or in a residential neighborhood.

22. You Won’t Find Spaghetti Bolognese on Italian Menus

There’s American food, there’s Italian food, and there’s Italian-American food. One of the mind-blowing things to know before traveling to Italy is that many dishes you think were invented in Italy weren’t.

Garlic bread is a type of bruschetta in Italy and not a common one. Bolognese sauce exists, but it’s not usually served with mincemeat like spaghetti bolognese.

And what about pepperoni? If you ask for that in Italy, don’t be surprised to find chopped bell peppers on your pizza.

23. Embrace Italian Culture and Dolce Far Niente

A key piece of advice on traveling to Italy is to just relax. The Italians have a saying, dolce far niente . It means the sweetness of doing nothing.

Leave some room in your trip itinerary to wander without looking at your Maps app or sip a cappuccino at a cafe without looking at your phone.

Essential Italy Travel Tips to Know Before Your Vacation

These travel tips for Italy will help you know what to expect from Italian menus, accommodations, locals, and more so you can feel confident and safe on vacation. Whether you’re hiking Cinque Terre at sunset or eating cannoli in Sicily, you’ll have the time of your life on your summer vacation, Italian style!

Don’t miss these additional resources as you plan your trip to Italy:

• Renting a Car in Italy: La Dolce Vita on Four Wheels
• How to Travel to Italy on a Budget
• Where To Go In Italy With Kids [& Important Planning Tips]
• Fall capsule wardrobe for travel: what to pack for Italy in October

The post 23 Must-Know Italy Travel Tips to Plan Your Dream Trip appeared first on The Family Voyage .