tourism facts about italy

What are you looking for?

53+ italy travel & tourism statistics [fresh for 2024].

Italy is a dream destination for architecture, culture, and fashion lovers.

It’s also a fantastic country for road trips, and lots of people like to rent campervans in Italy as they explore multiple places.

Indeed, Italy appeals to different types of travellers, no matter your interest.

Did you know it’s the third most visited country in Europe?

If you want to understand more about travel and tourism in Italy, you’ve come to the right place.

We’ve compiled these interesting facts and statistics for you.

Let’s dive right in!

Sources : We have included the source for each statistic, and feel free to head to the end of this post for the complete list of articles and sources used.

Travellerspoint

How many tourists visit Italy each year?

In 2019, there were 64.8 million annual visitor arrivals in Italy.

How much does tourism contribute to Italy?

• The Italian travel and tourism industry contributed 162.6 billion euros to the country’s GDP in 2021, or equal to 9.1%.

Who visits Italy the most?

• France recorded the highest number of arrivals in Italy in 2021, with 6.3 million arrivals.

Has Italy tourism increased?

Visitor arrivals in Italy was 50.5 million in December 2022, compared with 26.8 in December 2021. This is an encouraging increase from the all-time low of 16.4 million arrivals in December 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Italy Travel & Tourism Key Statistics

• In 2019, Italy was the third most visited country in Europe after France and Spain.
• In January 2023, there were 4.1 million Italian tourists traveling abroad, up from 3.6 million in January 2022.
• In terms of travel spending, France was the leading outbound travel market for Italy. Italians spent 1.64 billion euros in France.
• Italian residents made 37.2 million domestic trips in 2021, compared to 54.3 million trips in Italy in 2019.
• In 2021, spending by international visitors was recorded at 21.3 billion euros.
• In 2022, the Italian city with the most chain hotels was Rome, with 232 hotels in total.
• The Italian municipality that receive the most overnight stays in 2021 was Rome, totaling almost 9 million.
• According to World Data, five cities in Italy are included in the world’s top 100 destinations, the highest ranking of which is Rome (fifth place).

Italy Inbound Tourism Travel Statistics

1. visitor arrivals in italy was 50,525,695 people in december 2022, compared with 26,888,993 in december 2021..

This is an encouraging increase from the all-time low of 16,482,810 arrivals in December 2020 due to the Covid-19, but yet to reach its 2019 figure of 64.5 million.

2. In 2019, Italy was the third most visited country in Europe after France and Spain.

France and Spain recorded 89.4 and 83.5 million international tourist arrivals respectively. This put Italy as the third most popular European country.

3. France recorded the highest number of arrivals in Italy in 2021, with 6.3 million arrivals.

The country that contributes the highest number of tourist arrivals in Italy was France, with 6.3 million arrivals in 2021 .

4. Germany came in second place with 5.2 million tourist arrivals in Italy in 2021.

5. in 2021, there were 176 million overnight stays in italy by international tourists..

This was an increase from 155 million in 2020, but still well below pre-pandemic levels.

6. Out of those, 33 million inbound overnight stays were for work-related trips.

Italy outbound tourism travel statistics.

Where do Italians travel to outside of Italy?

7. In January 2023, there were 4.1 million Italian tourists traveling abroad, up from 3.6 million in January 2022.

8. this amounted to 16.8 million monthly overnight stays by italian outbound travellers..

Once again, this was an increase from 16.2 million in January 2022.

9. Italian tourists spent 31% more in 2021 compared to 2020 when travelling overseas. The outbound tourism expenditure in 2021 was equal to 12.6 billion euros.

10. in terms of travel spending, france was the leading outbound travel market for italy. italians spent 1.64 billion euros in france., 11. meanwhile, italian travellers spent a total of 1.6 billion and 806 million euros in spain and germany, respectively., 12. in 2021, 67% of italians in a survey claimed to travel abroad on a city trip..

City destinations have proven to be extremely popular for Italian holiday makers.

Domestic Tourism in Italy

Do Italians travel domestically?

13. Italian residents made 37.2 million domestic trips in 2021, compared to 54.3 million trips in Italy in 2019.

14. in 2021, the most popular domestic destination for overnight trips in italy was apulia with 28,7 million overnight stays by italian travellers., 15. this was followed by emilia-romagna and tuscany, with around 23.4 million and 22.2 million domestic overnight stays, respectively., 16. italians went on 2.4 million domestic business trips in 2021, rising by 12.7% from the previous year., 17. domestic tourism spending in italy was 107 billion euros in 2021, rising from 60.7 billion euros in 2020., 18. france is in the top 4 source market for backpackers in australia..

[BackpackerJobBoard]

Italian travellers make up 4.49% of all backpackers in Australia .

Italy Travel & Tourism Econonic Contribution

19. in 2021, spending by international visitors was recorded at 21.3 billion euros or us$20.46 billion..

This was a 20% annual increase from 2020 (17.3 billion euros), but still only 45% of the international tourism spending in 2019 (44.3 billion euros).

20. The Italian travel and tourism industry contributed 162.6 billion euros to the country’s GDP in 2021, or equal to 9.1%.

21. In 2021, travel and tourism generated a total of 2.64 million jobs, both direct and indirect.

22. In terms of direct employment, in 2019, tourism provided jobs for 2.1 million people in Italy, contributing 8.8% of the country’s employment and supported 218,000 enterprises.

23. this includes 1.08 million employed in the food & beverages industry and 182 thousand in passenger transport., 24. tourists from germany spent the most when travelling to italy, with 3.8 billion euros in 2021 alone..

This is despite the number of French tourists in Italy surpassing that of German tourists.

25. Based on spending, tourism in Italy ranks fifth worldwide.

[Macro Trends]

In first place is the US with $84.2 billion in tourism spending .

Hotels in Italy Statistics

Which hotel chain has the most hotels in Italy?

26. In 2022, Best Western was the hotel chain with the most hotels in Italy, with 84 total establishments. 

B&B and NH Hotels followed behind with the second and third highest number of hotels in Italy.

27. Best Western also ranked as the international hotel chain brand in Italy with the most hotel rooms in 2022, with 10,778 rooms.

It was followed by Accor and Marriott International, with 10,557 and 9,896 total hotel rooms respectively.

28. In 2022, the Italian city with the most chain hotels was Rome, with 232 hotels in total.

Milan and Venice followed with 128 and 80 hotels.

29. Meanwhile, Milan and Venice ranked second and third, with a total of 128 and 80 chain hotels, respectively.

30. rome itself recorded a total of 1,600 hotels in 2021..

In 2021, Rome had 1,600 hotels, of which 621 were rated 3-stars .

31. In terms of hotel room price, the most expensive Italian city to stay in a four-star hotel overnight was Venice at 169.5 euros.

This was based on a November 2022 study, with Turin following as the second-most expensive city in Italy, costing an average of 163 euros per night. Still, it’s a tourist favorite with plenty of activities to do !

Meanwhile, when it comes to staying in luxury hotels, the Dolomites have been the most popular destination in Italy.

32. The Italian city with the highest average occupancy rate in four-star hotels is Bologna, with an occupancy rate of 87.1%.

33. In 2022, almost 37% of all trips made by Italians were hotel stays.

34. staying with friends and relatives is the second most preferred type of accommodation by italians, making up 30.1% of trips..

35. Italy is the country that has the highest number of properties awarded with a Booking.Com Travel Sustainable Badge (46,365).

[Booking.com]

46,365 Italian properties listed on Booking.com have been awarded with a Travel Sustainable Badge.

Other Accommodations in Italy Statistics

How many Airbnbs are there in Italy?

36. The Italian city with the most Airbnbs is Rome, with 24,383 listings recorded in December 2022.

37. in comparison, milan has 18,931 airbnb listings, while florence and naples have 10,727 and 7,761, respectively..

In fifth place is Venice, with 7,275 total Airbnbs .

38. In 2021, there were 22 thousand non-hotel accommodations in Rome.

This includes 6800 thousand holiday dwellings, over 3500 bed and breakfasts, and 414 holiday homes.

39. Venice had a total of 32 thousand non-hotel accommodations, which was a decrease from the 35 thousand in 2020.

In 2021, there were 32 thousand non-hotel accommodations in Venice .

40. Meanwhile, in Milan in 2022, there were a total of 6,266 non-hotel accommodations, including 122 B&Bs and 32 youth hostels.

41. florence’s non-hotel accommodations increased between 2019 and 2021, from 2800 to 3900..

The figure incldues 700 farmhouses and 98 bed and breakfasts as of 2021.

Most Famous Destinations in Italy

Which is the most visited place in Italy?

42. The Italian municipality that receive the most overnight stays in 2021 was Rome, totaling almost 9 million.

Venice followed in the ranking in 2021, with around 5.7 million overnight stays. Despite the popularity of Venice, it’s still possible to experience it on a budget !

43. According to World Data, five cities in Italy are included in the world’s top 100 destinations, the highest ranking of which is Rome (fifth place).

[World Data]

44. In 2021, Milan sits in 12th place, Florence in 21st, Venice in 27th, and Verona in 59th as the most popular destinations in the world.

The ranking has been determined based on the attractiveness of the cities across six different areas.

Verona is the fifth most visited city in Italy, or 59th in the world. It is known for being the romantic setting of Romeo and Juliet, but also boasts a lot of other things to do .

45. In 2023, Italy ranks as the 22nd safest country in the world for tourists with a score of 87.6.

It ranks just below the UK, which earned a score of 87.9 .

46. The most visited museum in Italy was the Colosseum in 2019, but the Uffizi Galleries ranked first in 2020 and 2021 (1.7 million visitors).

47. however, in terms of revenue, the colosseum was the highest-grossing tourist attraction, generating 17 million euros in 2021..

This is still well below the 57 million euros of the Colosseum’s revenue in 2019.

48. Overall, attendance at the Colosseum recorded nearly 1.7 million in 2021.

Visiting the Colosseum is an essential Rome bucket list, even if you’re exploring the city on a budget .

49. The number of visitors to Pompeii doubled in 2021, receiving around one million visitors in that year.

Behaviors in italian tourism.

What is the behavior of Italians when travelling?

50. A survey revealed that 36% of travelers in Italy aren’t willing to splurge for pet-friendly facilities.

36% of Italian travellers say that they don’t want to spend more for pet-friendly facilities, as simply allowing pets in hotels and travel establishments is already enough.

51. Italians prefer to do direct bookings when traveling, which includes 46% of all accommodations booked for leisure travel in 2022.

52. transports booked directly represented around 67% of bookings for business trips in italy., 53. italians who travelled for leisure took on average longer trips than those travelling for work-related reasons in 2022..

Holidays made by Italians last an average of 6.5 nights, compared to business trips with an average length of 3.8 nights .

54. Within Europe, Italy offers a promising source market for baby boomer travel, with 1.02 million outbound travellers in this age group.

There are 1.02 million Italian baby boomers who travel overseas.

That wraps up our list of the best statistics about travel and tourism in Italy.

Whether you’re planning to travel there or simply wanting to learn more about it, we hope this post has been useful.

Did we miss any important aspect of Italy’s tourism?

Drop a comment below!

In the meantime, you might enjoy these other stats:

• Mexico Travel & Tourism Statistics
• Peru Travel & Tourism Statistics
• Canada Travel & Tourism Statistics
• BackpackerJobBoard
• Macro Trends
• Booking.com

Leave a comment

Let us know what you think.

5 million people can't be wrong

© Andrea Comi/Getty Images

Home to many of the world's greatest works of art, architecture and gastronomy, Italy elates, inspires and moves like no other.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Italy. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Vatican Museums

Vatican City, Borgo & Prati

Founded by Pope Julius II in the early 16th century and enlarged by successive pontiffs, the Vatican Museums boast one of the world's greatest art…

Ancient Rome

Everyone wants to see the Colosseum, and it doesn’t disappoint, especially if accompanied by tales of armored gladiators and hungry lions. More than any…

St Peter's Basilica

In the city of outstanding churches, none can hold a candle to St Peter's, Italy’s largest, richest and most spectacular basilica. Built atop a 4th…

Roman Forum

An impressive – if rather confusing – sprawl of ruins, the Roman Forum was ancient Rome's showpiece center, a grandiose district of temples...

Sandwiched between the Roman Forum and the Circo Massimo, the Palatino (Palatine Hill) is one of Rome's most spectacular sights. It's a beautiful,…

Capitoline Museums

Dating from 1471, the Capitoline Museums are the world's oldest public museums, with a fine collection of classical sculpture.

Centro Storico

With its revolutionary design, this awe-inspiring temple has served as an architectural blueprint for millennia.

Piazza Navona

With its showy fountains, baroque palazzi and colorful cast of street artists, hawkers and tourists, Piazza Navona is central Rome’s elegant showcase…

Top picks from our travel experts

12 amazing ways to experience italy.

Teatro Greco

The highlight of the Neapolis archaeological area is the Teatro Greco, a masterpiece of classical architecture that could accommodate up to 16,000 people…

This enchanting albergo diffuso, with 28 distinctive rooms and suites scattered throughout the village, was what helped rescue Santo Stefano from oblivion…

Ponte dei Sospiri

One of Venice's most photographed sights, the Bridge of Sighs connects Palazzo Ducale to the 16th-century Priggione Nove (New Prisons). Its improbable…

Trevi Fountain

Tridente, Trevi & the Quirinale

Don't miss a visit to Rome's iconic Fontana di Trevi, or Trevi Fountain.

Galleria degli Uffizi

Duomo & Piazza della Signoria

Home to the world's greatest collection of Italian Renaissance art, Florence's premier gallery occupies the vast U-shaped Palazzo degli Uffizi (1560–80),…

Basilica di San Marco

With a profusion of domes and more than 8000 sq metres of luminous mosaics, Venice's cathedral is unforgettable. It was founded in the 9th century to…

When you need a break from Naples' hyperactive tendencies, take a deep breath on its pedestrianised seafront strip. Stretching 2.5km along Via Partenope…

Catacombe di San Gennaro

Naples' oldest and most sacred catacombs became a Christian pilgrimage site when San Gennaro's body was interred here in the 5th century. The carefully…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

Italy has so many delights for visitors, it’s hard to know where to start. Lucky for you, we’ve made this list of the best experiences all over the country.

Things to Know

With so many attractions, it's hard to know where to begin with a trip to Italy. Here's some local insight into the essential things to know before you go.

Transportation

Your guide to traveling independently across Italy, from the Alps to the islands.

Visa Requirements

Italy is one of the most visited countries in Europe and its many attractions are hard to resist. Find out if you need a visa before you go.

Money and Costs

These top budget tips can help you save money while exploring Italy.

Traveling with Kids

Experience the best of Italy as a family with this guide to the top things to do there with kids.

Best Road Trips

Whether you're cruising the Amalfi Coast or driving through the Tuscan countryside, these scenic road trips will help you see the best of Italy.

Plan with a local

Experience the real Italy

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Italy

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Apr 19, 2024 • 7 min read

A vintage train journey, four fabulous hotels and plenty of pizza, pasta and gelato. One of our editors takes us on her journey from Rome to Venice.

Mar 20, 2024 • 9 min read

Feb 28, 2024 • 8 min read

Jan 11, 2024 • 8 min read

Dec 8, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 30, 2023 • 13 min read

Nov 22, 2023 • 4 min read

Nov 20, 2023 • 7 min read

Nov 19, 2023 • 11 min read

Nov 16, 2023 • 4 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Italy

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Italy with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Italy and beyond

Italia. Open to meraviglia.

Six cycling destinations in the Veneto loop

The Molise of Taste

Landscapes of Campania

Landscapes that will take your breath away, rich history, and delicious food, your trip to italy will be nothing short of unforgettable.  , unmissable sites.

• UNESCO sites

Food and wine

Grand Tour impressions a stone's throw from the thermal baths of Abano and Montegrotto

Viaggio Italiano

A dream called Lake Como: a tour to discover 5 unforgettable villas

Puglia Fuori Rotta, 5 unusual stops for a surprising itinerary

The 10 must-see exhibitions in April in Italy

Abruzzo, the green region of Europe

The best trails in UNESCO heritage sites in Italy: 10,000 steps amid nature and beauty

The 15 Italian UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage excellences

Artistic masterpieces and gastronomic marvels in Modena

The Dolomites: the most beautiful architectural work in the world

Cilento, between unspoilt beaches, wild nature and charming hamlets

Alberobello, the Trulli capital, a fairy tale experience

Emilia-Romagna

Small and proud, with a focus on sustainability. Here are the most charming rural villages to visit in Italy

Cycling around nature and historic hamlets in Abruzzo

Tax breaks for moving to the charming villages of central and southern Italy

Seaside Villages

Castelmola, a window on the sea a few steps from Taormina

Frosolone: one of the most beautiful Italian villages, in Molise

Castel del Monte: the fortress of mysteries in Andria

In the beautiful Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle in South Tyrol

Alto Adige: Merano amid castles, Art Nouveau buildings and spas

The Aosta Valley and Its Castles

Castelli Romani Regional Park

Castles of the Duchy of the Piacenza and Parma area

Restourants

Umbria, on the pursuit of flavor

Tuscany's extra virgin olive oil villages

Modica’s chocolate

Gastronomic tourism: a tour to discover the cheeses of Lombardy

Sweet or bitter? The fine cuisine of traditional Abruzzo

Festa del Redentore a Venezia 2024

Pre-Raphaelites: Modern Renaissance

Best Wine Stars 2024

Saint Ephysius: the most engaging festival in Sardinia

Rimini Wellness 2024

May Day concert

Van Gogh in Trieste

2024 MONZA FORMULA 1 GRAND PRIX

Giro d’Italia 2024

Arezzo Antiques Fair

Catania Book Festival

Turin International Book Fair

Made in Italy and Emilia Romagna Formula 1 Grand Prix

ITALIAN OPEN BNL

FIM Superbike World Championship

The Pistoia Dialogues

Amber Wine Festival

Fermento Emilia

Discover italy.

Aosta Valley

The Aosta Valley is a paradise for visitors seeking outdoor experiences in nature while exploring history and traditions The smallest region in Italy, dotted with the highest peaks in the Alps, it is the ideal destination for anyone who enjoys winter sports and high-altitude walks. Its green valleys and fairy-tale castles make the Aosta Valley an enchanting place to experience all year round.

Piedmont is sure to enchant you with its mountains, hills, typical flavours and uniquely elegant cities An extraordinary heritage of art and history, culture and nature, characterises Piedmont, a region with a thousand faces, one more interesting than the other: cities of rare elegance, mountains that lend themselves to splendid skiing or walking, fascinating villages, hills that are among the best known in the world for their extraordinary wine production.

Lombardy: a dynamic land immersed in the present and reaching toward the future, but with an extraordinary heritage of art and nature Lombardy is a region in the north of Italy known for its industry and finance, of course, but also for its art and extraordinary landscapes, starting with the picturesque lakes and its mountains, Valcamonica and Valtellina in primis. Capital and symbolic city, Milan represents the industrious heart that goes hand in hand with other cities with a vibrant spirit.

Trentino is sure to amaze you with its immense natural heritage, the spectacular splendour of the Dolomites and fascinating sites steeped in history Discover Trentino’s culture of slow travel, taking the time to savour every corner among nature and cultural trails and educational farms. You will find hundreds of hotels offering wellness centres for truly relaxing holidays for the whole family in some of Italy's most beautiful villages, set in unique landscapes.

South Tyrol

Alto Adige is a dream place to discover all year round amidst green valleys and snow-capped peaks Combine the relaxation of spa treatments with the pleasure of fun in the snow for a real wellness boost amidst Alpine lakes, beautiful villages and state-of-the-art ski facilities suitable for all ages. All this and more in the majestic scenery of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Alto Adige.

Veneto, a region of wonder, with cities of art of undisputed beauty, as well as the most pristine nature The beauty of Lake Garda, the charm of the Dolomites, the sea of Jesolo, the hills covered with vineyards and the relaxing thermal baths, on top of an immense artistic and historical heritage, elegant cities such as Venice and Verona, quaint villages and breathtaking landscapes. Veneto is all this and much more.

Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Friuli-Venezia Giulia Friuli Venezia Giulia: a treasure chest nestled between sea and mountains A border region sandwiched between the Friulian Dolomites and the Upper Adriatic, blessed with an immense cultural heritage resulting from the influence of different cultures and peoples, cosmopolitan and modern, Friuli Venezia Giulia will also seduce you with its temptations of relaxation, sport and fun.

Tucked-away villages, secret little beaches and superb nature: how enchanting Liguria is! Liguria is a wonderful strip of land enclosed between the sea and the mountains, with pastel-coloured houses and breathtaking views. With lush unspoilt nature, many small towns to discover and an incomparable culinary tradition, it enraptures the eye and the heart.

Emilia Romagna, a region of unrivalled charm, with immense artistic beauty and unparalleled hospitality Emilia Romagna with its Riviera Romagnola offers beach tourism that attracts families and young people to its shores every summer. Rich in sites of historical and cultural interest, this region boasts a world-renowned wine and food tradition. Skilful hospitality does the rest, making Emilia Romagna an ideal holiday destination in every season. Video credits: Oliver Astrologo

Tuscany will win you over with its unique landscapes, cities of art, thousand-year-old history and fantastic food Tuscany’s magical atmosphere evolves day by day as you stroll around the cities of art, cycle in the parks, enjoy the sea or savour its typical products, in a region with a one-of-a-kind natural, cultural and historical heritage that has fascinated visitors for centuries.

From Assisi to Perugia, via Gubbio, Lake Trasimeno and Marmore Falls: Umbria is a truly enchanting tourist destination Peaks covered in lush forests and large valleys outlined by rivers, lakes and waterfalls; sorrounded by villages and castles, crossed by paths steeped in history, art and culture, in a natural environment that helps to restore the body and soul: Umbria, the Green Heart of Italy, is all this and much more.

Le Marche, a plunge into the history, art and architecture of a region with the scent of the sea and redolent of traditions and hospitality A great variety of landscapes and an infinite range of colours that make the area's natural beauty incomparable, plus an artistic heritage that fears no comparison: this is how the Marches, with an area of no more than 10,000 square kilometres, will captivate you forever.

Sardinia: a journey to the island of the emerald sea, nuraghi, unspoilt nature and millenary traditions Crystal-clear waters, beaches of soft, white sand, granite rocks framed by wild, fragrant Mediterranean scrub: welcome to Sardinia, an island of a thousand contrasts that will also seduce you with its unique archaeological heritage and its people's innate sense of hospitality.

Lazio is not only Rome: landscapes and monuments of Lazio Rome, the capital of Italy and a unique open-air museum in the world, is enough to make Lazio one of the most beautiful and interesting regions. Even in terms of landscape, it boasts an area of great impact and remarkable variety, with its long coastline, beautiful hills and Apennine mountains. A destination to fall in love with.

Abruzzo, a journey through history between sea, mountains, flavours and unspoilt nature in parks and protected areas A region in central Italy, Abruzzo has two souls and one heart. Predominantly mountainous and hilly, it overlooks a beautiful stretch of the Adriatic Sea. Here, you will find the highest peaks of the Apennines, such as the Gran Sasso and the Majella massif, as well as the only Apennine glacier, but also some of the most popular beaches.

Campania offers landscapes, history, culture and a gastronomic tradition that the whole world envies A consistently mild climate, lush nature framing breathtaking landscapes, unspoilt villages and fairy-tale coastlines: this is Campania, a region that sums up centuries of cultures, between West and East, in a single Mediterranean jewel known for its unparalleled hospitality. A destination for the soul, the eyes and the palate.

Molise, a tiny region with grandiose landscapes: come and discover its history and culinary tradition Molise is a region steeped in history, characterised by numerous tasty food and wine delicacies, but also by rich nature reserves and villages that seem crystallised in history. A destination yet to be discovered, amid marvellous seashores and breathtaking high cliffs

Apulia: the sunny region between two seas and warm hospitality in places rich in history Located in the heart of the Mediterranean, it is a magical combination of artefacts, history, art and unspoilt nature, amidst beautiful coastlines and picture-postcard landscapes. This is Puglia, a region of golden beaches and crystal-clear waters, intense flavours and fascinating destinations: Castel del Monte, the trulli, the islands passing through towns kissed by a unique and unforgettable light.

Basilicata, a region of ancient origins, suspended between two seas and with mountains of great beauty Basilicata is a region where the passage of man has left its mark since prehistoric times. With the ancient name of “Lucania”, it is enriched by an incredible artistic heritage. Not to mention its never-boring panorama, which ranges from the Lucanian Dolomites to the Pollino Park, passing through two seas.

Calabria is the region of crystal-clear sea, the Riace Bronzes, Reggio Calabria and Capo Vaticano, a captivating mix of history and beauty Calabria, also known as the tip of the Italian boot, is a region in Southern Italy characterised by the incredible diversity of its landscapes, with the proximity of mountains to a splendid sea that attracts tourists from all over the world.

A dive into Sicily, where a sea of art, culture and nature will seduce you and become eternal love A predominantly hilly and mountainous area, but one that wins the hearts of tourists from all over the world with its wonderful sea and rich cities with a charm all their own. Sicily is a picture-postcard island characterised by the indelible marks of the people who have lived there and made it unique, amidst artistic and cultural testimonies of enormous value.

The source of inspiration for your Italian adventures

6 unmissable destinations in Italy featured in famous novels

The Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics are approaching: here's what to expect

7 unique experiences to enjoy in Italy even while on a business trip

Discovering Italy's most important theatres, special destinations for a unique experience

Rediscover your Italian roots

Italian cuisine around the world: a treasure that knows no boundaries

Create your ideal journey.

Art and culture

Relax and wellness

Spirituality

Shopping & Markets

Cycling Tourism

Social Wall

Italy seen by you.

Join the @italiait community and post your experiences

Continue living like an Italian

Subscribe to the Newsletter so as not to miss places, events and experiences for experiencing the best side of Italy: the authentic one.

Keep up to date

Would you like to learn about the most authentic experiences to be had in Italy, stay up to date on the most interesting events, discover our special offers and receive lots of insider hints and tips?

Save your favorite places

Create an account or log in to save your wishlist

Do you already have an account? Sign in

Italy Travel Guide

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• Travel guide
• Itineraries
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

Carlo DeSando

Wonderful Time in Italy We were covered from the moment we landed in Rome. The drivers were great, the connections were flawless, and it was well-planned a...

Chances are, once you’ve experienced the joys of travelling in Italy, you might never want to visit anywhere else. Its cultural legacy is awe-inspiring, with remnants of the Roman Empire manifest at (pretty much) every turn. Then there’s the diverse landscapes, and the fabulous food - all underpinned by an unmistakeable character of living life to the full.

Travel Facts about Italy

Where to go in italy - regions and areas, top attractions - what to see in italy, best things to do in italy, when is the best time to visit italy.

• How to get to Italy

How to get around Italy

Where to stay in italy, food in italy you need to try, culture and festivals in italy, nightlife in italy, plan your trip to italy, things you need to know before going to italy, typical cost and money saving tips for italy, what to pack for a trip to italy, is italy safe for travel, what you should avoid in italy, useful resources for your travel to italy, tailor-made travel itineraries for italy, created by local experts.

8 days  / from 2622 USD

Experience the hit TV show 'The White Lotus' in Sicily

Stay in beautiful Taormina with gorgeous views of Mount Etna and discover Sicily, including famous filming locations. Go on exclusive wine tastings, discover the Greek theater in Taormina with a private guide, visit other Sicilian towns and enjoy the crystal clear water on this week-long trip.

8 days  / from 3258 USD

Enchanting Italian Lakes

Experience the picturesque lakes of Northern Italy, including Lake Garda, Como, Lugano and Maggiore; explore the charming Borromean Islands – former favourites of Ernest Hemingway – and stroll the romantic streets of Verona and Milan. All of this, and much more, with this self-drive trip!

16 days  / from 3258 USD

From Venice to Florence: A Grand Tour of Northern Italy

From the atmospheric canals of Venice and the picturesque coastline of Cinque Terre, to the trendy designer boutiques of Milan and the Renaissance-infused streets of Florence, Northern Italy has plenty to offer. Experience it all with this comprehensive trip.

All the information here is from The Rough Guide to Italy , our in-depth Italy travel guide - check it out for your all your Italy travel needs.

• Language: Italian, with a whopping 34 dialects.
• Population: just under 60 million, with around three million residing in Rome, the capital.
• Politics: Italy has been a democratic republic since 1946, when the monarchy was abolished by popular referendum.
• Heritage: Italy is home to a staggering 55 UNESCO World Heritage sites, 50 cultural and five natural. Tuscany alone has more classified historical monuments than any other country in the world.
• Food and drink: the average Italian eats 23 kilos of pasta annually, and the nation drinks an astounding 14 billion cups of coffee every year.

For more Italy travel tips, read our facts about travelling in Italy article .

Every trip to Italy is unique and that's why it's essential to stay protected. With our go-to travel insurance provider, Heymondo , you get great value and 24/7 support wherever you are.

Figuring out where to go when you visit Italy is no mean feat. From ancient hilltop towns to modern bustling cities, dramatic mountain landscapes to sweeping coastal scenery, each pocket of Italy delivers something different.

Rome , Italy’s capital, is the one city in the country that owes allegiance neither to the north or the south. It’s quite unlike any other city, and in terms of historic sights it outstrips everywhere else by some way.

Rome from above aerial view of the Roman Forum and the Colosseum © Calin Stan/Shutterstock

Piemonte and Lombardy

The northwest regions of Piemonte and Lombardy make up the country’s most cosmopolitan region, and the two main centres, Turin and Milan , are its wealthiest cities. In the north, the presence of the Alps makes skiing and hiking prime activities, while Lombardy’s lakes and mountains are time-honoured tourist territory.

Liguria , the small coastal province to the south, has long been known as the “Italian Riviera” and is accordingly crowded with sun-seekers for much of the summer. Its capital, Genoa , is a vibrant port town with a long seafaring tradition.

The Veneto and Friuli Giulia

The Dolomites stretch into the northeastern regions of the Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia , but the main focus here is Venice . This unique city is every bit as beautiful as its reputation suggests.

Emilia-Romagna

Emilia-Romagna ’s coast is popular among Italians, and Rimini is Italy’s brashest (and trendiest) seaside resort. Then there’s the ancient centres of Ravenna , Ferrara , Parma and regional capital, Bologna , one of Italy’s liveliest cities, and traditionally its gastronomic and academic capital.

Central Italy represents perhaps the most commonly perceived image of the country. Tuscany , with its classic rolling countryside and the art-packed towns of Florence , Pisa and Siena , is one of Italy’s most visited regions.

Neighbouring Umbria is similar in all but its tourist numbers, though it gets busier every year, as visitors flock to towns like Perugia and Assisi .

Campania ’s capital, Naples , is a unique, unforgettable city, the spiritual heart of the Italian south, and close to some of Italy’s finest ancient sites in Pompeii and Herculaneum, not to mention the country’s most spectacular stretch of coast around Amalfi.

Puglia , the “heel” of Italy, has underrated pleasures, notably the landscape of its Gargano peninsula, the souk-like qualities of its capital, Bari , and the Baroque glories of Lecce in the far south.

The island of Sicily is a place apart, with a wide mixture of attractions ranging from some of the finest preserved Hellenistic treasures in Europe, to a couple of Italy’s most appealing beach resorts in Taormina and Cefalu, not to mention some gorgeous upland scenery.

The stage of Taormina's Greek Theater with the Etna in the background, Taormina, Sicily © K. Roy Zerloch/Shutterstock

Sardinia feels far removed from the mainland, especially in its relatively undiscovered interior, although you may be content just to laze on its beaches, which are among Italy’s best.

Discover more places in Italy

• Friuli-Venezia Giulia Travel Guide
• Le Marche Travel Guide
• Liguria Travel Guide
• Lombardy and the Lakes Travel Guide
• Piemonte and Valle d’Aosta Travel Guide
• Puglia, Italy
• Rome Travel Guide
• Sardinia, Italy: What To Do, Weather & More
• Sicily Travel Guide
• Trentino-Alto Adige Travel Guide
• Tuscany, Italy
• Umbria Travel Guide
• The Veneto Travel Guide
• Venice Travel Guide

Picking landmarks and attractions in Italy everyone should see in a lifetime is a nigh impossible task, but we’ve taken a stab at selecting some of the best places to travel in Italy; sights that will enhance every Italy trip experience.

• The Colosseum is perhaps Rome’s most awe-inspiring ancient monument, an enormous structure that despite the depredations of nearly two thousand years of earthquakes, fires, riots and wars, remains relatively intact.
• Venice’s magnificent Piazza San Marco houses the Basilica di San Marco, Italy’s most lavish cathedral.
• Hemmed in by lush hillsides and dramatic mountains, Lake Como’s captivating landscape is best enjoyed by zigzagging between shores by boat.
• When in Florence , it’s impossible not to gravitate straight towards the square at its hears, Piazza del Duomo, beckoned by the iconic form of the cathedral’s extraordinary dome.
• Romain remains at Pompeii and Herculaneum - these two sites, buried by the volcanic debris of Vesuvius in AD 79, afford an unparalleled glimpse into ancient Roman daily life and architecture.
• The Amalfi coast - this rugged stretch of coastline has to rank as one of Italy’s most breath-taking routes. Secluded coves and picturesque towns punctuate the scenic journey.

Discover more great places to see in our ultimate list of things not to miss in Italy .

Grand Canal, Venice, Italy © Apple Kullathida/Shutterstock

History and culture

Rome alone has enough historic attractions to warrant dozens of visits (and that’s no exaggeration). Discover more about the Eternal City’s ravishing ruins and architectural treasures, from the Colosseum and the Roman Forum , to the Spanish Steps and the Vatican .

Florence is an exquisite city of exquisite art, the jewel in its elegant crown Italy’s finest art gallery, the Uffizi, home to Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” and Caravaggio’s “Medusa”, to name but a few of its masterworks. Though meandering Venice’s winding alleys and canals feels like you’re exploring a museum (such is the city’s beauty and uniquely curated vibe), the Accademia museum is an absolute must-visit for art-lovers.

Water-sports

The extensive Italian coast offers plenty of opportunities for sailing and windsurfing. Scuba diving is popular in Sicily and off most of the smaller islands. Water-sports aren’t just restricted to the coast - they can be found in places such as lakes Como and Garda in the north, and Trasimeno and Bolsena further south towards Rome, while river canoeing, canyoning and rafting are popular in the mountain areas of the north of the country. Discover more about sports and outdoor pursuits - our Italy guide to all things active.

Of course, Italy’s coast isn’t all about high energy pursuits. Its beaches are stunning places to soak up the sun; people watch and pose; eat, drink and generally be very merry. Discover the best beaches in Italy , spanning secluded coves, lively seafronts, and dramatic cliff-backed harbours.

Skiing and snowboarding

With the Alps on the doorstep, it’s easy to spend a weekend skiing or snowboarding from Milan, Turin or Venice. Some of the most popular ski resorts are Sestriere and Bardonecchia in Piemonte, and Val di Fassa in the stunning Dolomite mountains. Find out about the best winter resorts for skiing .

Hiking and biking

All these mountain resorts are equally ideal as bases for summer hiking and climbing. The dramatic, spiky landscape of the Dolomites , for example, is perfect hiking country, with its trails often subject to snow, ice and scorching sun in the same day - this is Italy travel at its most epic. For less strenuous treks, the rolling hills of Tuscany and Umbria make perfect walking and mountain-bike country - consider booking a tour in the company of an Italy travel guide who has local hiking or biking know-how.

Varenna old town in Como lake © Boris Stroujko/Shutterstock

Italy is a truly year-round destination, so the answer to the question “what’s the best month to go to Italy?” will depend on what you want from your Italy travel experience. 

Generally speaking, though, the best time to travel to Italy is spring ( April , May and June ) or autumn ( September and October ). emperatures are warm and you’ll skirt the stifling heat of the summer months - top Italy travel advice if you want to avoid the crowds, too.

Visiting Italy in November , December , January , February and March is doable, but keep in mind that it can be cold. Especially in the north.

Find out more about the best time to visit Italy .

The best way to travel to Italy is to fly. Regular direct flights serve most of Italy from the UK, and you can fly direct from various cities in the US to Rome and Milan. Alternatively, if you travel to Italy by train, you’ll limit your carbon footprint and get to see incredible scenery too. An Interrail (European residents) or Eurail pass (non-European residents) is good value if you plan to make stops en route.

Read on for the best ways to get to Italy .

If you’re wondering how to travel around Italy, the extensive rail system is inexpensive, pretty reliable and quick, apart from regional trains, which tend to be slow and don’t necessarily extend to everywhere you might want to go, though regional buses cover the corners the trains don’t reach. For trips to the islands, you can hop on a ferry or hydrofoil, and the northern lakes region operates frequent ferries outside the winter months.

Learn more about transportation and how to get around Italy .

When you visit Italy, an immeasurable variety of accommodation awaits - boutique hotels, youth hostels, self-catering villas, family-run B&Bs, rural farmhouses, mountain monasteries. While rarely particularly cheap, standards are reliable and accommodation is well regulated. Bear in mind, though, that while accommodation is plentiful, you’ll need to book ahead to bag your ideal bunk down spot in popular resorts and major cities.

Discover how to find the best accommodations in Italy .

One of the joys of travel to Italy is sampling the variety of quality food and drink. Italian cuisine is region specific - the northwest brings a French influence, with its rich butter and cream sauces, while Umbria specialises in salamis, hams, and black truffles, and the southern diet features Mediterranean vegetables. Naples is considered to be the home of the humble pizza, all along the coast seafood dominates, and pasta is prevalent pretty much everywhere. When it comes to drink, Italians take their coffee seriously, and Italian wine is world-renowned, with Tuscany producing classic Chianti, and Veneto’s Prosecco an effervescent delight.

Read more about local food and drink in Italy .

Florence cityscape © Bob Hilscher/Shutterstock

If you travel to Italy, chances are you’ll come across a festival of one kind or another. The Italians love a party, and there are thousands of festivals throughout the year. Religious processions are widespread, Good Friday being particularly well celebrated, and carnival (the big party before the sobriety of Lent). Then there are traditional events, such as the Palio horse race in Siena , food festivals, often celebrating regional cuisine, as well as arts festivals, often taking place against a backdrop of Roman or medieval architecture.

Read more about public holidays in Italy .

The resort area of Rimini is arguably the clubbing capital of Italy, mainly concentrated on the seafront itself, and in the fashionable enclave of Misano Monte (15km south of Rimini and about 5km inland). Also home to legendary nightclubs, cosmopolitan fashion powerhouse Milan does things a little differently. Milanos like to start their evenings early, with an extended “Happy Hour” that begins around six with an aperitivo - a pre-dinner drink that typically lasts until 9pm.

Though not short of night clubs, Roman nightlife is more focussed on al fresco food-based activities. Bustling, bohemian Trastevere comes up trumps for hearty homecooked food and, while Naples lays claim to inventing it, Roman pizza is something to write home about.

The saying goes that Rome wasn’t built in a day, so you shouldn’t expect to see more than a fraction of the city’s attractions in a short visit. That said, if you’re looking for ideas for a few days in Italy, a (preferably long) weekend in Rome will deliver in magnificent style. The same goes for city breaks in Venice, Florence and Milan, and lesser-visited Bologna and Genoa.

As for ideas for a week (or more) in Italy, you might consider touring the Italian Lakes , or soaking up southern Italy , taking in Naples, Pompeii, Vesuvius, the island of Capri , and Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. Alternatively, exploring the island of Sicily makes for an idyllic longer break.

For more inspiration see some of the Italy itineraries from our Italy travel guide and local travel experts.

• Dining do’s and don’ts - always wish your table mates “Buon appetito!” before eating, never start to eat until everyone is seated, and always serve others before yourself.
• Be mindful that tucking into takeaway treats on the move isn’t always welcome (or legal). Florence, for example, has banned eating on the streets around All’ Antico Vinaio, on account of the mess incurred by the popularity of the areas’s takeaway eateries.
• Be respectful (quiet, and observe any rules around photography) when visiting churches and other religious sites.
• Say “Permesso” when you need to pass someone on the street, as you’d say “excuse me” in English.

Positano, italy. Amalfi Coast © iacomino FRiMAGES/Shutterstock

Practical travel tips for Italy

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

• Eating and drinking in Italy
• Getting around Italy: Transportation Tips
• Shopping tips for Italy
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Italy
• Travel Tips Italy for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Italy
• How to spend 7 days In Italy - 8 unique itineraries
• The Best 10-Day Italy Travel Itinerary
• How To Spend 14 Days In Italy - 5 Unique Itineraries
• How to get from Rome to Florence
• Electricity - the supply is 220V, though anything requiring 240V will work, and plugs either have two or three round pins.
• Italy’s currency is the euro (Italians pronounce it “eh-uro”).
• Banks give the best exchange rate. Banking hours are normally Monday to Friday mornings from 8.30am until 1.30pm, and for an hour in the afternoon (usually 2.30–4pm).
• Most towns and villages have at least one ATM.
• Opening hours - most shops and businesses open Monday to Saturday from 8am until 1pm, and from about 4pm until 7pm, with additional closures on Saturday afternoons, though an increasing number remain open all day. Traditionally, everything except bars and restaurants closes on Sunday, though in large cities and tourist areas, Sunday shopping is more common.

For advice about practical matters when travelling in Italy, check the travel advice for Italy .

In general, you’ll find the south of Italy less expensive than the north. As a broad guide, expect to pay most in Venice, Milan, Florence and Bologna, less in Rome, while in Naples and Sicily prices drop quite a lot. As an indication, you should be able to survive on a budget of about €50–60 per day if you stay in a hostel, have lunchtime snacks and a cheap evening meal. If you stay in a mid-range hotel and eat out twice a day, you’ll spend closer to €130–140 per day. Transport and food are relatively inexpensive, and room rates are in line with much of the rest of Europe, but bear in mind that in July and August, when Italians take their holidays, hotel prices can escalate.

• Comfortable shoes - yes, even if you’re strutting around fashionable Milan. Exploring Italy on foot is fabulous fun, so you won’t want to be hindered by inappropriate footwear.
• That said, Italians are known for their style, so even if you’re setting off for a beach or adventure holiday, you’ll want to pack something smart for the evenings.
• Travelling from outside mainland Europe? Bring multi-plug adapter.
• While English is widely spoken, pack an Italian phrasebook . Attempting to speak little lingo is polite, plus it could come in handy in remote rural regions.
• Italian summers are hot, hot, hot - don’t forget the sunscreen.

Italy is relatively safe for visitors, though you can reduce the chance of petty theft by taking sensible precautions - don’t flash anything valuable, and make sure bags can’t be snatched. You’re most at risk in busy areas, where pickpockets and scippatori or “snatchers” on scooters are most likely to operate.

Read more on travel safety in Italy , and for up to date information about safety and travel requirements for Italy, check government guidelines. UK nationals should heed Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice , while travellers from the US should check governmental travel advisory guidelines for Italy .

Statue of Apollo, Pompeii © BlackMac/Shutterstock

• Don’t sit down for a coffee if you’re going to down it in one - the cost of a coffee drunk at a table can be double that of drinking it at the counter.
• Don’t ask for a cappuccino as lunchtime approaches - in Italy, the frothy stuff is only supped with breakfast.
• Common sense this one, but steer clear of restaurants that try to usher folks inside. Italy has an abundance of excellent eateries - you don’t need to pay over the odds at joints that hustle for business.
• Avoid depending on debit and credit cards. Lots of gelateria, street food vendors and trinket stalls only take cash - you wouldn’t want to miss out on that ice cream of a lifetime by being beholden to cards.
• Check out The Rough Guide to Italy - our exhaustive, in-depth Italy travel guide that covers everything you need to know before you go, and while you’re on the road.
• You can pick up regional Rough Guides to Italy too, and city guides. Explore the full range .
• Our expert-curated (fully customisable) Italy itineraries are packed with inspiration.
• Given that enjoying Italy’s food, glorious, food is an essential Italy travel experience, taking a food tour is a great way to sample authentic cuisine, whether you’re in Rome , Naples , or Venice .

Top image: Amalfi coast, Italy © proslgn/Shutterstock

The Rough Guides to Italy and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 21.03.2024

Ready to travel and discover Italy?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

• Travel, Tourism & Hospitality ›
• Leisure Travel

Tourism in Italian cities - statistics & facts

International tourism in italian cities, travel accommodation in italian cities, key insights.

Detailed statistics

Total number of international tourist arrivals in Italy 2015-2022

Number of international arrivals in tourist accommodation in Rome 2014-2022

Number of international tourist arrivals in Venice 2011-2022

Editor’s Picks Current statistics on this topic

Current statistics on this topic.

Destinations

Most visited Italian municipalities 2019-2022, by overnight stays

Most expensive cities for average price in four-star hotels in Italy 2023

Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

Related topics

Tourism in italy.

• Travel and tourism in Italy
• Tourism in Rome
• Tourism in Venice
• Museums in Italy
• Cruise industry in Italy

Tourism in European cities

• Tourism in London
• Tourism in Paris
• Tourism in Barcelona
• Tourism in Amsterdam

Recommended statistics

• Premium Statistic Monthly tourism balance in Italy 2019-2024
• Premium Statistic Total number of international tourist arrivals in Italy 2015-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of inbound tourist overnight stays in Italy 2014-2022, by travel reason
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic trips in Italy 2014-2022
• Premium Statistic Overnight stays for domestic trips in Italy 2019-2022, by region of destination
• Premium Statistic Most visited Italian municipalities 2019-2022, by overnight stays

Monthly tourism balance in Italy 2019-2024

Monthly tourism balance in Italy from January 2019 to January 2024 (in million euros)

Total number of international tourist arrivals in Italy from 2015 to 2022 (in million travelers)

Number of inbound tourist overnight stays in Italy 2014-2022, by travel reason

Number of international tourist overnight stays in Italy from 2014 to 2022, by travel reason (in millions)

Number of domestic trips in Italy 2014-2022

Number of domestic trips in Italy from 2014 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Overnight stays for domestic trips in Italy 2019-2022, by region of destination

Number of overnight stays for domestic trips in Italy from 2019 to 2022, by region of destination (in 1,000s)

Municipalities with the highest number of tourist overnight stays in Italy from 2019 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

International tourism

• Premium Statistic Number of international arrivals in tourist accommodation in Rome 2014-2022
• Premium Statistic Leading inbound travel markets in Rome 2019-2022, by number of arrivals
• Premium Statistic Number of international tourist arrivals in Venice 2011-2022
• Premium Statistic Leading inbound travel markets in Venice 2019-2022, by number of arrivals
• Premium Statistic International arrivals in tourist accommodation in Milan 2010-2022
• Premium Statistic Leading inbound travel markets in Milan 2019-2022, by number of arrivals
• Premium Statistic Monthly inbound tourist arrivals in Florence 2019-2022, by accommodation type
• Premium Statistic Leading inbound travel markets in Florence 2019-2022, by number of arrivals

Number of international arrivals in tourist accommodation establishments in Rome, Italy from 2014 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Leading inbound travel markets in Rome 2019-2022, by number of arrivals

Leading international travel markets in Rome, Italy from 2019 to 2022, by number of arrivals (in 1,000s)

Number of international tourist arrivals in Venice, Italy from 2011 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Leading inbound travel markets in Venice 2019-2022, by number of arrivals

Leading international travel markets in Venice, Italy from 2019 to 2022, by number of arrivals (in 1,000s)

International arrivals in tourist accommodation in Milan 2010-2022

Number of international arrivals in tourist accommodation establishments in Milan, Italy from 2010 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Leading inbound travel markets in Milan 2019-2022, by number of arrivals

Leading international travel markets in Milan, Italy from 2019 to 2022, by number of arrivals (in 1,000s)

Monthly inbound tourist arrivals in Florence 2019-2022, by accommodation type

Monthly number of international tourist arrivals in Florence, Italy from 2019 to 2022, by accommodation type

Leading inbound travel markets in Florence 2019-2022, by number of arrivals

Leading international travel markets in Florence, Italy from 2019 to 2022, by number of arrivals

Domestic tourism

• Premium Statistic Number of domestic tourist arrivals in Rome 2014-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight stays in Rome 2014-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic tourist arrivals in Venice 2012-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight stays in Venice 2013-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of domestic tourist arrivals in Milan 2010-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight stays in Milan 2010-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic tourist arrivals in Florence 2019-2022, by region
• Basic Statistic Number of domestic overnight stays in Florence 2019-2022, by region

Number of domestic tourist arrivals in Rome 2014-2022

Number of domestic tourist arrivals in travel accommodation establishments in Rome, Italy from 2014 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of domestic overnight stays in Rome 2014-2022

Number of domestic overnight stays in travel accommodation establishments in Rome, Italy from 2014 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of domestic tourist arrivals in Venice 2012-2022

Number of domestic tourist arrivals in Venice, Italy from 2012 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of domestic overnight stays in Venice 2013-2022

Number of domestic overnight stays in Venice, Italy from 2013 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of domestic tourist arrivals in Milan 2010-2022

Number of domestic arrivals in tourist accommodation establishments in Milan, Italy from 2010 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of domestic overnight stays in Milan 2010-2022

Number of domestic overnight stays in tourist accommodation establishments in Milan, Italy from 2010 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of domestic tourist arrivals in Florence 2019-2022, by region

Number of domestic tourist arrivals in Florence, Italy from 2019 to 2022, by region of origin (in 1,000s)

Number of domestic overnight stays in Florence 2019-2022, by region

Number of domestic overnight stays in Florence, Italy from 2019 to 2022, by region of origin (in 1,000s)

• Premium Statistic Most expensive cities for average price in four-star hotels in Italy 2023
• Premium Statistic Italian cities with the highest occupancy rate in four-star hotels 2023
• Premium Statistic Leading travel destinations in Italy 2022, by number of chain hotels
• Premium Statistic Leading travel destinations in Italy 2022, by number of chain hotel rooms
• Premium Statistic Number of hotels in Rome 2019-2022, by rating
• Premium Statistic Number of hotels in Venice 2019-2022, by rating
• Premium Statistic Number of hotels in Milan 2023, by rating
• Premium Statistic Number of hotels in Florence 2019-2022, by rating

Most expensive cities for average price per night in four-star hotels in Italy as of December 2023 (in euros)

Italian cities with the highest occupancy rate in four-star hotels 2023

Leading cities for average occupancy rate in four-star hotels in Italy in 2023

Leading travel destinations in Italy 2022, by number of chain hotels

Leading travel destinations in Italy in 2022, by number of chain hotels

Leading travel destinations in Italy 2022, by number of chain hotel rooms

Leading travel destinations in Italy in 2022, by number of chain hotel rooms

Number of hotels in Rome 2019-2022, by rating

Number of hotel establishments in Rome, Italy from 2019 to 2022, by rating

Number of hotels in Venice 2019-2022, by rating

Number of hotel establishments in Venice, Italy from 2019 to 2022, by rating

Number of hotels in Milan 2023, by rating

Number of hotel establishments in Milan, Italy as of June 2023, by rating

Number of hotels in Florence 2019-2022, by rating

Number of hotel establishments in Florence, Italy from 2019 to 2022, by rating

Non-hotel accommodation

• Basic Statistic Non-hotel accommodation establishments in Rome 2019-2022, by type
• Basic Statistic Non-hotel accommodation establishments in Venice 2019-2022, by type
• Basic Statistic Non-hotel accommodation establishments in Milan 2023, by type
• Premium Statistic Non-hotel accommodation establishments in Florence 2019-2022, by type
• Basic Statistic Number of Airbnb listings in selected Italian cities 2023
• Basic Statistic Average price per night of accommodation on Airbnb in selected Italian cities 2023

Non-hotel accommodation establishments in Rome 2019-2022, by type

Number of non-hotel accommodation establishments in Rome, Italy from 2019 to 2022, by type

Non-hotel accommodation establishments in Venice 2019-2022, by type

Number of non-hotel accommodation establishments in Venice, Italy from 2019 to 2022, by type

Non-hotel accommodation establishments in Milan 2023, by type

Number of non-hotel accommodation establishments in Milan, Italy as of June 2023, by type

Non-hotel accommodation establishments in Florence 2019-2022, by type

Number of non-hotel accommodation establishments in Florence, Italy from 2019 to 2022, by type

Number of Airbnb listings in selected Italian cities 2023

Number of Airbnb listings in selected Italian cities as of December 2023

Average price per night of accommodation on Airbnb in selected Italian cities 2023

Average price per night of accommodation establishments listed on Airbnb in selected Italian cities as of December 2023 (in euros)

• Premium Statistic Museums and archaeological areas with the highest attendance in Italy 2019-2022
• Premium Statistic Museums and archaeological areas with the highest income in Italy 2019-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of visitors to the Colosseum archaeological park in Rome 2012-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of visitors to the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy 2019-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of visitors to Pompeii archaeological site Italy 2019-2022
• Basic Statistic Attendance at the Biennale International Art Exhibition in Venice 2015-2022

Museums and archaeological areas with the highest attendance in Italy 2019-2022

Most visited museums, archaeological areas, and similar cultural institutions in Italy from 2019 to 2022 (in 1,000 visitors)

Museums and archaeological areas with the highest income in Italy 2019-2022

Museums, archaeological areas, and similar cultural institutions with the highest income in Italy from 2019 to 2022 (in 1,000 euros)

Number of visitors to the Colosseum archaeological park in Rome 2012-2022

Number of visitors to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill archaeological park in Rome, Italy from 2012 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of visitors to the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy 2019-2022

Number of visitors to the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy from 2019 to 2022

Number of visitors to Pompeii archaeological site Italy 2019-2022

Number of visitors to the archaeological area of Pompeii, Italy from 2019 to 2022

Attendance at the Biennale International Art Exhibition in Venice 2015-2022

Number of visitors to the Biennale International Art Exhibition in Venice, Italy from 2015 to 2022

Further reports Get the best reports to understand your industry

Get the best reports to understand your industry.

Mon - Fri, 9am - 6pm (EST)

Mon - Fri, 9am - 5pm (SGT)

Mon - Fri, 10:00am - 6:00pm (JST)

Mon - Fri, 9:30am - 5pm (GMT)

80 Facts about Italy (Travelers and Expats) Food, Culture, Visas, Politics, Photos…

Have Italy on the brain? In this huge guide, you’ll learn 80 facts about Italy, including travel, food, expat, culture, national symbols, politics and more. Plus lots of photos and videos.

80 Facts about Italy

In this huge guide, you’ll learn what to expect on your trip (or move) to Italy? Have a question? Ask it in the comments below. I’ll do my best to answer every one. Did I miss something? Please add it in the comments!

Let’s get started!

Basic Facts About Italy

1. what is italy’s official name.

Officially, Italy is known as the Italian Republic . In Italian, it is Repubblica Italiana .

2. What is Italy’s population?

According to the latest figures from the United Nations, the current population of Italy is 59,242,024 .

3. Where is Italy located?

Italy is located within the central part of southern Europe. The country is a peninsula – one of the largest peninsulas in the world .

To the south, Italy touches the Mediterranean Sea, and it is bordered on the east by the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea. Its western shores lie on the Ligurian Sea and the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Map of Italy

4. What time is it in Italy?

Italy is in the Central European timezone (GMT+1) .

The country is one hour ahead of London time and in the same time zone as France and Spain .

5. When does the sun set in Italy?

Because of it’s distance from the equator, this varies during the year.

• During the winter months, the sun sets in Italy at around five or six in the evening.
• Over the summer months, the sun sets there at around nine in the evening.

6. What are citizens of Italy known as?

In English, the citizens of Italy are known as Italians.

In Italian, they are called italiani .

Interestingly, many citizens of Italy have a strong link to their family and to their family’s land, and they may identify themselves first by the region in which they were born.

Here’s what residents of each city call themselves:

• Florence:  fiorentino
• Genoa : genovese
• Milan : milanese
• Naples : napoletano
• Palermo : palermitano
• Pisa : pisano
• Rome : romano
• Venice : veneziano

7. What is the capital of Italy?

The capital city of Italy is Rome , known in Italian as Roma.

8. What is life expectancy in Italy?

The average life expectancy in Italy is 82.8 years old.

• Italian males can expect to live 80.5 years
• Italian females have a life expectancy of 84.9 years.

These figures make Italy the country with the eighth highest life expectancy in the world.

9. What religions are in Italy?

Roughly 80% of Italians profess to be Christian , and one-third of these are practicing Catholics.

The remaining 20 percent of the population is a mixture of Muslim, agnostic, and atheist.

10. Common misspellings of Italy

You’ll laugh, but some of the most common misspellings of Italy in English are litghly and itirly.

Some people also mistakenly spell it as Italian or Etaly.

Facts About Italy Travel

11. how’s the weather in italy.

The weather in Italy can vary depending on whether you are in the northern, central, or southern part of the country.

• Northern Italy: In the north, temperatures (in Fahrenheit) average in the 40s and 50s in the winter and spring, while they are in the 50s and 60s in the central part of the country. In the summer and fall, temperatures in the north are in the 60s to 80s, and those in the central region are in the 70s and 80s.
• Southern Italy: In the southernmost part of Italy, temperatures in the summer average in the 80s, and the fall and winter months are generally in the 60s to lower 70s.

12. What is the best time to visit Italy?

This depends on what you’re hoping to get out of your trip.

Summer is the most popular time to visit Italy. The weather can be very hot, particularly in Sicily, and museums and other attractions are very crowded.

The fall and spring seasons tend to be more affordable, and the weather is pleasant enough for plenty of outdoor activities and sightseeing.

While the winter weather may be too cold for some travelers, you might consider focusing on southern Italy for warmer weather.

13. What is Italy’s currency?

As a member of the European Union, Italy uses the euro (€) as its currency.

14. Do I need a power adapter when I visit Italy?

If you are not using European devices, you will need a power adapter in Italy. Something like this one .

Typically, all you will need for most devices, including computers and cell phones, is an adapter plug. This plug enables you to connect your devices to the wall outlets in Italy.

If you are using devices that run on a different voltage than the one in Italy (such as American hair dryers or curling irons), then you will need both an adapter plug and a voltage converter .

If you do not have a voltage converter and try to use an American hair dryer in Italy, you may short circuit the electrical system .

15. What plugs are used in Italy?

Italy uses plugs that are used throughout the rest of the European Union. These plugs have two round pins .

If you have devices from France, Spain, or another European country, these devices will be able to be plugged directly into Italian electrical outlets with no problems.

16. What are Italy’s international airports?

Italy has numerous international airports . These include two in Rome, and there are also two international airports in Milan.

The major cities of Catania, Florence, Genoa, Parma, Palermo, Naples, Turin, Venice, Verona, Pisa, Bologna, Perugia, and Trieste all have international airports.

17. What languages are spoken in Italy?

The official language spoken in Italy is Italian . The country also has a large population of Catalan speakers.

More than 30 different regional languages and dialects are spoken throughout the country. These include Sardinian (primarily spoken on the Italian island of Sardinia), Tabarchino, and Sassarese.

18. How many tourists visit Italy every year?

More than 420 million tourists visited Italy in 2017, the most recent year for which figures are available. Approximately 14 percent of these tourists were from Germany.

American, French, and British tourists accounted for an estimated three percent each. The most popular tourist destination in 2017 was the city of Rome.

19. What are Italy’s most popular landmarks?

The most popular Italian landmark for tourists is the Colosseum in Rome.

Other beloved attractions include Pompeii, the canals in Venice, the Trevi Fountain, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Lake Como, and the Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence.

Tourists flock to the Amalfi Coast, and Vatican City is a particularly treasured pilgrimage site for Catholics. St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice and the Roman Forum in Rome are both inspiring attractions, too.

20. Is Italy a safe place to visit?

Italy is currently ranked as the 34th safest country out of 162 countries studied in recent safety research. It is a safe country for female travelers, and violent crime is extremely low.

The most common safety risk when traveling to Italy is pick-pocketing , and visitors should take care to guard their passports, wallets, and phones carefully. Like other European countries, civilians in Italy are not allowed to own or use guns.

21. What are Italy’s 10 best beaches?

In the 2018 Travelers’ Choice Awards from TripAdvisor, the top 10 highest-rated Italian beaches were:

• Spiaggia dei Conigli (Lampedusa, Sicily)
• Tropea Beach (Tropea)
• La Pelosa Beach (Stintino)
• Cala Goloritze (Baunei)
• Porto Giunco (Villasimius)
• Bay of Silence (Sestri Levante)
• Cala Mariolu (Baunei)
• Spiaggia di Cala Rossa, Isola di Favignana (Aegadian Islands, Sicily)
• Spiaggia di Maria Pia (Alghero)
• Marina Piccola (Capri)

22. What are the most famous events in Italy?

Italy has a number of major festivals throughout the year that visitors can enjoy.

In the winter or early spring, one of the most well-known festivals is Carnevale (Carnival, a celebration similar to Mardi Gras). Celebrated in many towns throughout Italy, the most famous Carnevale festival is in Venice.

In the summer months, visitors may wish to see the Festa della Madonna Bruna , held on July 2nd in the city of Matera. The festival includes a procession through the city and concludes with fireworks. Another beloved festival is La Quintana , a medieval jousting festival held on the first Sunday of August in the town of Ascoli Piceno.

Visitors to the small Sicilian town of Caltagirone should check out the Infiorita Festival that takes place during the last two weeks of May. During the festival, 142 ceramic steps in the town center are covered with floral arrangements. On July 24th and 25th, the stairs are beautifully lit with candle displays in honor of St. James, the town’s patron saint.

Geography Now! Italy Video

Geography of Italy

23. how large is italy.

By land mass , Italy ranks as the 72nd largest country in the world , and nearly 40 percent of the country is comprised of mountainous terrain.

In total, the area of the country is 116,350 square miles (301,340 square kilometers). It is about the size of New Mexico.

24. What World Heritage Sites are in Italy?

In 2017, Italy had 54 UNESCO World Heritage Sites .

49 of these were cultural landmarks, and the remainder were natural sites.

Examples of some of the Italian World Heritage sites include the city of Verona, the Amalfi Coast, Mount Etna (a volcano), the late Baroque towns of the Val di Noto, and the historic city centers of the towns of Florence, Naples, Venice, Siena, Rome, and Pienza.

25. What is Italy’s largest city?

According to the population, the largest city in Italy is Rome . It has a population of nearly 2.4 million people.

26. What are Italy’s major cities?

Major cities in Italy are Rome, Milan, Naples, Turin, Palermo, and Genoa.

Other large cities include Florence, Catania, Bari, and Bologna.

27. How many provinces in Italy?

Italy has 20 regions . These are divided into 110 provinces and 8,101 comuni (municipalities).

28. What is the highest elevation in Italy?

The highest elevation in Italy is at 4,808 meters and is located on Mont Blanc (Bianco), known in English as White Mountain. This mountain is part of the Graian Alps region.

29. Does Italy have a lot of mountains?

Yes, nearly 40 percent of Italy is mountainous.

Some of the most famous mountains in the country include Bianco (Mont Blanc), Monte Cervino (Matterhorn), Breithorn, Gran Paradiso, and Mont Dolent.

30. How many islands in Italy?

The total number of Italian islands is over 450 .

Of these, an estimated 350 are sea islands, 13 of which are archipelagos.

100 of Italy’s islands are classified as lagoon or lake islands, and the nation also has a handful of river islands, including the Isola Tiberina in the Tiber River in Rome.

31. What are the top 10 famous places in Italy?

10 of the most iconic places to visit in Italy include several in Rome. These include:

• Colosseum (Rome)
• Trevi Fountain (Rome)
• Roman Forum (Rome)
• Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano) is famous as the second-largest Catholic cathedral in the world.
• Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence
• Mount Etna volcano in Sicily
• Rialto Bridge in Venice also attract attracts visitors
• Cathedral of Monreale, near Palermo, Sicily, is another iconic spot for tourists
• Leaning Tower of Pisa: no trip to Italy would be complete without a visit to the famous leaning tower of Pisa.
• Ponte Vecchio in Florence. Spanning the Arno River, it is the oldest bridge in the city and dates from 1345.

32. How many national parks in Italy?

Italy has a total of 24 national parks that cover an area of more than 5,843 square miles. The parks are managed by the Ministry of the Environment and account for 5% of the total land mass of Italy.

The list below provides a sample of some of the nation’s most iconic national parks.

• Gran Paradiso National Park (established 1922, Italy’s oldest national park)
• Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga
• Cilento, Vallo di Diano, and Alburni
• Alta Murgia
• Isola di Pantelleria
• Dolomiti Bellunesi
• Cinque Terre

Politics of Italy

33. what type of government does italy have.

The government of Italy is a parliamentary republic form of government, and it has executive, legislative, and judicial branches.

In June 1946, Italy abolished its monarchy, and the country became a democratic republic with its own constitution.

Currently, the leader of the Italian government is President Sergio Mattarella ; he took up that position in 2015.

34. How stable is the current government?

While government stability has declined in Italy over the past three decades, the current government is considered to be quite stable .

35. How many national political parties are in Italy?

In the 2018 general election in Italy, there were 11 major national parties .

These included the Democratic Party, the Five-Star Movement, League, Forza Italia, More Europe, Brothers of Italy, Free and Equal, Together, Power to the People, Popular Civic List, and CasaPound Italy.

Business in Italy

36. what is italy’s largest export.

In 2017, the most recent year for which figures are available, Italy’s largest export was machinery , including computers. This accounted for 19.7% of the country’s total exports.

37. What are Italy’s major exports?

Apart from machinery and computers, Italy’s other major exports include vehicles, electronics, pharmaceuticals, plastics, iron, steel, mineral fuels (including oil), and furniture (including bedding and lighting).

Italy is also a major exporter of non-knitted, non-crocheted clothing.

38. What is the minimum wage in Italy?

In Italy, there is no national minimum wage .

Instead, some economic sectors set minimum wages through unions. The majority of unions have set the minimum wage at approximately seven euros per hour .

39. Who are Italy’s major trading partners?

Germany, China, and France are the countries from which Italy imports the largest amount of goods (approximately 33 percent of all imports).

In terms of exports, Italy exports the majority of its goods to Germany, France, and the United States.

Food in Italy

40. what food is most popular in italy.

One of the most well-known Italy facts is that Italians make exquisite food.

Pizza, spaghetti, lasagna, and gelato are all iconic, beloved dishes up and down the country. To drink, Italians love coffee and wine.

41. What kind of food is traditional in Italy?

Traditional Italian food includes lots of pasta, bread, tomato sauce, and cheese.

Simple pasta dishes such as spaghetti with meatballs or other toppings, pasta with cheese and fresh black pepper, lasagnas with various fillings, pizzas, and hot or cold sandwiches known as paninis are all traditional.

For dessert, tiramisu and gelato are all considered classic dishes from the country.

In the southern part of the country and on the islands of Sicily and Sardinia, traditional cuisine uses a lot of fish and seafood.

42. What can you eat and drink in Italy?

You can eat and drink just about anything in Italy.

While the country loves its traditional favorites, a variety of ethnic cuisine is also served there. For example, you can find restaurants that serve American, Spanish, and Japanese food.

43. What is Italy’s national dish?

One of the lesser-known facts about Italy is that its national dish is actually a sauce . Known as Ragu alla Bolognese (or just Bolognese), it is a tomato sauce with beef meatballs.

44. What is a typical dinner in Italy?

In Italy, lunch is the biggest meal of the day.

Dinner (supper) tends to be lighter. Traditionally, it usually consists of pasta, pizza, or bread and might include some seafood or salad. Today, Italians enjoy trying ethnic cuisine for dinner, so they may eat couscous or even sushi for dinner.

45. What is the most popular drink in Italy?

Both wine and coffee are extremely popular in Italy, so much so that it’s hard to say which is more popular.

Italians love having strong espresso and other coffee throughout the day, even in the evenings, and they often have wine with lunch and dinner.

46. What do the locals eat for breakfast?

Breakfast in Italy is the lightest meal of the day , and it’s normally very simple. For example, it might include toast with jam, some yogurt, or possibly just some fruit.

47. What is the main dish in Italy?

Pizza and pasta are the main dishes in Italy, and they are available in many variations depending on the location you’re in.

In the southern part of Italy, pasta and pizza are normally served with seafood toppings, and in the northern and central parts of the country, heavier cream sauces and beef or chicken are more likely to be used. Olive oil features in most of the main dishes served in the country.

48. What food and drink is Italy famous for?

Italy is famous for its pasta, pizza, coffee, wine, and desserts.

Italians usually group pasta according to length (short or long) and whether they are plain or stuffed. Most pasta are made from white flour, but pasta made from whole wheat and beans are becoming more popular. Some types of pasta are called different names in different regions of the country.

Spaghetti, linguine, vermicelli, and penne are a few of the major pasta types. Pizza in Italy is classified as either a Neapolitan type or a Roman type. The Neapolitan type has a thicker crust, while the Roman type has a thinner crust. Additional distinctions are made between so-called red pizzas (those that have tomato sauce, cheese, and other toppings) and white pizzas (focaccia bread with toppings but without tomato sauce). Some of the most famous coffee drinks in Italy are cappuccino and espresso, and wines include both red and white varieties.

Famous desserts include gelato, tiramisu, and panettone, a sweet Milanese bread served at Christmas.

49. What fruit is Italy famous for?

Lots of citrus fruits grow in Italy, particularly in its Southern areas and in Sicily.

The country has many groves of various citrus fruits, including several different types of oranges, lemons, and limes that are used to make limoncello and other liquors and syrups.

One of the most famous Italian fruits is cedro, known in English as citron . This fruit is sweeter than a normal lemon, and Italians use it on top of bruschetta or in salads.

50. What can you not eat in Italy?

You can find most foods in Italy. However, the country does not typically use ice for drinks, so you may want to bring an ice cube tray from home to make ice during your stay. In smaller towns, it can be difficult to find vegan food options , so those following special diets may need to do some research in advance of their trip.

51. Can I drink the water in Italy?

Yes, the tap water in Italy is completely safe to drink. However, some people who have underlying health conditions or take medication may find that drinking tap water in a foreign country causes stomach upset. If this occurs, bottled water is readily available in stores.

Italy is known for using donkey’s to perform rescues along their rocky cliffs. Learn more about them and their miniature friends .

Language in Italy

52. what are the official languages in italy.

The official language of Italy is Italian. Some sources list Catalan as an additional official language.

If you are heading to Italy on a trip, an Italian phrasebook is a great idea. If you are planning on moving to Italy, you will probably want even more. We’ve had great success with the Pimsleurs Language program.

53. What language are road signs in Italy?

Most road signs in Italy are in Italian only.

However, in some areas, bilingual signs are used. For example, German is included on road signs in South Tyrol (an area where German is widely spoken), and French is included on signs in the Aosta Valley region (an area where French is widely spoken).

On the island of Sardinia, signs are posted in both Italian and Sardinian, the local dialect.

Wildlife in Italy

54. what animals live in italy.

Italy has nearly 5,000 species that are native to the country.

Some of the interesting mammals in the area include the Italian wolf, the Mediterranean monk seal, the Alpine marmot, the Corsican hare, and the Sardinian long-eared bat. The European owl moth is only found in the southern part of the country.

Unique amphibians and reptiles in the nation include the Italian newt and the Italian frog, the brook chub, the Sicilian wall lizard, the Aeolian wall lizard, and the Sicilian green toad.

55. What dangerous animals are in Italy?

Italy has a number of venomous snakes . These include the asp viper and the horned viper.

More of a pest than a danger, the country is also home to processional caterpillars. These caterpillars travel in long lines and only move in groups. They tend to make nests in fir trees.

56. Are there any deadly spiders in Italy?

Yes, both brown recluse and black widow spiders live in Italy, and their bites can cause severe pain. If left untreated, a bite from one of these spiders may be fatal.

The country also has tarantulas and a spider known as the violin spider, both of which are venomous and should be avoided.

Plant Life in Italy

57. what is italy national flower.

One of the most fun facts about Italy that surprises tourists is that there are several national flowers for this country.

Officially, the white lily is the nation’s national flower. However, the traditional and symbolic flower of the country is the white rose . In addition to the white lily, the white poppy also serves as a symbolic religious flower in Italy.

Yet, Italians themselves consider the violet to be the most popular flower symbol in the nation.

58. What types of vegetation are common in Italy?

Italy has three different vegetation zones.

• In the highest zone, mostly around the Alps, commonly seen vegetation includes trees such as the cypress, cherry laurel, evergreen cork oak, and European olive. Shrubs and flowers such as rhododendron, primrose, dwarf juniper, and green alder are also typically seen.
• In the southern portions of the country near the Mediterranean Sea, the holm oak and Aleppo pine trees are plentiful. Olive trees are common, and there are also large quantities of feather grass and white asphodel in the meadows of Calabria.
• In Sicily, papyrus grows as a freshwater plant.

59. What crops are grown in Italy?

In addition to citrus fruits, crops such as potatoes, sugar beets, corn, rice, and wheat are grown in Italy.

National Symbols of Italy

60. what is the symbol of italy.

The national symbol of Italy is the stella d’Italia (star of Italy) .

This symbol dates from ancient times. Today, most Italians associate it with “towered Italy,” an ancient allegorical representation of the country.

61. What is the national tree of Italy?

One of the lesser-known Italy facts is that the country has two national trees .

Both the olive tree and the oak tree are considered to be Italy’s national trees.

62. What is Italy’s national bird?

The national bird of Italy is the Italian sparrow .

63. What is Italy’s national animal?

Many Italians consider the wolf to be the country’s national animal.

Wolves are the most prevalent wild animals in the country. Legend has it that Romulus and Remus, twin brothers credited with the founding of Rome, were both raised by a female wolf who protected them from other animals.

64. What is Italy’s national sport?

Football (known as soccer in the United States) is considered to be Italy’s national sport .

Culture in Italy

65. what are some of the different cultures in italy.

Italy is a multicultural country with diverse customs.

The primary language is Italian, and French, German, and local dialects are also spoken.

Roman Catholicism is the dominant religion and 20 percent of the country is either Muslim, agnostic, or atheist.

Pasta, pizza, olive oil, and seafood are some of the most well-loved foods in the nation.

Italians tend to be very fashionable, and traditional dress is generally worn only for special ceremonies. Traditional dresses tend to be very brightly colored with lots of red and green.

66. What is the population of Italy?

The current population of Italy is just over 59 million.

67. Is Italy’s population increasing or decreasing?

The population of Italy has been decreasing over the last few years.

Between 2017 and 2018, the population decreased at a rate of -0.12 percent. Between December 2018 and February 2019, the population decreased at a rate of -0.13 percent.

68. How many immigrants live in Italy?

Approximately five million legal immigrants currently live in Italy.

69. Where do the immigrants in Italy come from?

The majority (23 percent) of immigrants to Italy are from Romania. Immigrants from Albania, Morocco, China, and Ukraine also make up a large percentage of Italy’s immigrant population.

Italy Immigration and Expat Facts

70. what is the best place to live in italy.

Expats moving to Italy typically need a place that is affordable and that has good English-speaking or international schools. They also need a location that has a high-level of easily-accessible healthcare and resources for families.

With that in mind, the areas listed below are popular choices for many foreigners.

71. What are the requirements to live in Italy? How can I immigrate to Italy?

Americans and non-EU citizens can stay in Italy for 90 days on a tourist visa. To live in Italy longer than that, an individual will normally need to have a job offer in Italy or be a student at an Italian university, a retiree, or a foreigner transferring his or her job to Italy as part of an inter-company transfer.

To immigrate to Italy, you must apply for a visa in advance of your arrival. You can apply at your nearest Italian consulate, and the consulate can provide full details of possible immigration routes that may be available to you.

72. How do you become a citizen of Italy? Is it hard to become a citizen of Italy?

The process of gaining Italian citizenship is long and hard. To become a citizen of Italy, a United States citizen must live in Italy for a minimum of 10 years , and the length of time is similar for nationals of other non-European Union countries.

Beyond that, the path to citizenship can be very complex, and it is best to get personalized advice about your individual immigration situation. Italy allows dual-citizenship with the United States and many other countries.

73. Is it easy to get permanent residency in Italy?

No, it is not easy to get permanent residency in Italy, but the process of doing so is worth it.

Citizens of the European Union must live in Italy continuously for five years before they are eligible to apply for permanent residency in Italy. The time period varies for citizens of non-European Union countries, and it is sometimes longer than five years.

74. How long can I live in Italy?

How long an individual can live in Italy depends on his or nationality and which visa he or she holds.

Generally, citizens of the European Union can live in Italy more easily than non-European Union citizens. One of the most common visas issued by the Italian government is the long-stay visa . This visa is good for 91 to 365 days and is issued for study, work, or permanent residency.

To determine more about how long you can stay in Italy, check your visa status or ask your Italian consulate.

75. How long can I stay in Italy without a visa?

People who travel to Italy for the purpose of tourism will be issued a visa on arrival at the port of entry. For Americans, Canadians, Australians, and others from non-European Union countries, a 90-day stay is the maximum permitted under this visa.

For any other type of visa, including a study or work visa, applications must be made in advance of travel; these visas are not issued at ports of entry.

76. How can I work in Italy?

To work in Italy as a non-citizen, you will need a work permit. To obtain this permit, you must be sponsored by an Italian employer, and they must file all of the necessary papers on your behalf.

Certain jobs are also subject to a quota system that limits the numbers of permits that will be issued for these jobs each year. University professorships and some types of performing arts jobs are exempt from the quota system.

77. What percentage of Italy are immigrants?

Currently, an estimated 8.3 percent of Italy’s total population is comprised of immigrants.

78. How many expats are in Italy?

Today, there are approximately five million expats living legally in Italy.

Holidays in Italy

Understanding the details of these customs will make it easier to plan your trip.

79. What are some popular Italian Christmas traditions?

Italians celebrate Christmas for 12 days. The celebrations start on Christmas Eve (December 24th) and end on Epiphany (January 6th). A fish supper is normally eaten on Christmas Eve, and Babbo Natale (the Italian version of Santa Claus) makes the rounds on this night.

The presepe , an ornate nativity scene, is typically the central focus of most Italian Christmas decorations, and nearly every town has its own presepe display. Traditionally, bonfires are held in town squares throughout the country on Christmas Eve. On Christmas Day, the main meal is meat-based.

80. What are some of Italy’s Easter traditions?

Easter ( Pasqua in Italian) celebrations typically begin during Holy Week, the week before Easter Sunday, and they include large, solemn religious processions. These are held in major cities and small towns across the nation, and the Pope leads a special procession at the Colosseum in Rome.

In the city of Florence, Easter Day is celebrated with a tradition known as the explosion of the cart ( Scoppio del carro ). Just before the Easter Sunday mass, a decorated cart filled with fireworks is taken to the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore by two white oxen. After mass, the priest throws a dove-shaped rocket into the cart, igniting a beautiful fireworks display. This is then followed with a parade by performers dressed in medieval costumes.

Have a fact about Italy to share? Join me in the comments!

Hi, I'm Bryan Haines . And I'm a co-founder of Storyteller.Travel . I'm a traveler and photographer.

I also blog about photography on Storyteller Tech .

Similar Posts

14 Largest Lakes in Europe: Listed by Size

Europe is filled with beautiful lakes and rivers. What is largest lake in Europe? And how does it compare to the other large lakes in this region? In this post, we’ll compare Europe’s largest lakes – by area, volume and depth. What’s the largest lake in Europe? Lake Ladoga in northwestern Russia is the largest…

14 Things to Do in Kampala Uganda (Bonus: 11 Kampala Facts)

Thinking about visiting Kampala while in Uganda? In this post, you’ll learn all about Uganda’s capital city – interesting facts and many things to do in Kampala. Looking for facts about Kampala? Jump to that section now. 14 Things to Do in Kampala Uganda Here are 14 things to do in Kampala Uganda. Did we…

Nova Scotia Beaches: Guide to 41 Best Beaches in Nova Scotia

Looking for the best beaches in Nova Scotia? Here’s the complete guide to Nova Scotia beaches – including the longest, warmest and best surfing beaches. Despite its northern location, Nova Scotia is known for having some of the warmest waters north of the Carolinas. And with 7500 km of coastline, there are a lot of…

What’s the Largest Lake in Africa? 9 Largest Lakes Compared

Africa is home to many huge lakes. What’s the largest lake in Africa? And where are the best places to visit? In this post, you’ll learn about the 9 largest lakes in Africa. Plus lots of photos and details. Africa has so much to offer a western traveler including world-renowned lakes. Second only to the…

Moving to Barcelona? 10 Things to Know (Customs, Cost of Living, Language…)

Are you moving to Barcelona? In this post by Annebeth Vis (bio), you’ll learn ten things to know before relocating to Barcelona Spain. She covers local customs, cost of living, wages, language, paperwork, and much more. 10 Things to Know Before Moving to Barcelona Life in Barcelona is in many ways different than in other…

15 Incredible Things to do in Uganda [Culture, Nature, Culinary, Adventure…]

Here are 15 things to do in Uganda. They include gorilla trekking and animal safari, adventure sports, cultural events and much more. 15 Incredible Things to do in Uganda Nicknamed the “Pearl of Africa” by Sir Winston Churchill, Uganda offers a smorgasbord of impressive attractions and unique things that you can’t see or do anywhere…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Explore Italy like a local

From iconic attractions to amazing experiences, your journey begins here, like a local, how to go to, hidden gems, itineraries, unconventional sardinia, latest news, best places to visit in italy, art and culture, food and flavours, places and tours, unesco sites, history and traditions, best tours and experiences, best to visit in italy, destinations.

From L'Aquila to Montesilvano and Gran Sasso

From Matera to Potenza and Melfi

From Tropea to Sila Park and Reggio Calabria

From Naples to Sorrento and Capri

Emilia Romagna

From Bologna to Rimini and Parma

Friuli Venezia Giulia

From Trieste to Udine

From Rome to Anagni and Viterbo

From the Cinque Terre to Portofino and Genoa

From Milan to Lake Como and Garda

From Pesaro to Urbino and Conero

From Termoli to Campobasso

From Turin and Asti and Venaria

From Polignano a Mare to Alberobello and Vieste

From Cagliari to Alghero and Olbia

From Palermo to Catania and Agrigento

From Florence to Pisa and Siena

Trentino-Alto Adige

From Dolomities to Ortisei and Riva del Garda

From Perugia to Assisi and Spoleto

Aosta Valley

From Courmayeur to Aosta

From Venice to Verona and the Dolomites Park

Italy like a local

What to do in Trapani like a local: 10 travel tips

Modena: 10 things to do like a local

Palermo: 10 things to do like a local

What to do in Noto like a local: 10 travel tips

Aosta like a local: 7 things to do

What to see in Genzano di Roma, the town of bread and ...

What to see in Casoli, the olive oil town in Abruzzo

What to see in Calcata, the picturesque village of artists ...

What to see in Castelluccio di Norcia, a landscape jewel of ...

Craco, the picturesque ghost town in Basilicata

Sailing in Sardinia: a dreamy itinerary in 5 stops to ...

Slow travel in Sardinia: 5 itineraries to experience the ...

Discovering typical Sardinian products on a 5 stops ...

Castles in Sardinia and other wonders: an amazing itinerary ...

Magical places in Sardinia: a 5 stops itinerary

How to get to Ostia: an enchanting journey between sky, ...

How to go to the Carnival in Venice 2024: guide and tips

How to reach Lake Como: the complete guide

How to get to Boboli Gardens in Florence and visit it

How to get from Ravello to Amalfi: all the ways to get there

What to do in italy.

On April 25th free museums throughout Italy: find out where

The 10 most attractive sites and museums in Italy at Easter and Easer Monday and 5 less crowded alternatives

Best cruises in Italy: 10 unforgettable experiences

21 outdoor activities in Italy to live this summer

Motor Sports, 10 events in Italy you cannot miss this summer

Luxury experiences in Italy: 7 things not to be missed in 2024

10 things to do before coming to Italy: everything you can plan in advance

The best 20 cycle paths in Italy to discover this spring

What to do in spring in Italy: must-see destinations in 2023

Thermal baths in Italy: the 20 most famous Italian thermal areas

Valentine’s day in Italy

Thermal tourism in Italy: tours to discover the best thermal destinations

Carnival in Italy: origins, traditions, typical sweets and the most famous masks

Where to ski in Italy: how to choose slopes and ski areas

New Year's Eve in the Mountains 2023: 20+1 atmospheric destinations in Italy

Living cribs in Italy: discover the best nativity scenes

Christmas traditions: curiosities, symbols and typical dishes in Italy

The 20 Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Italy

New Year's Eve in Italy: what to do on the last day of the year in Italy in 2024

Italian Christmas songs: 10 tracks for the music of your holidays

Christmas trips in Italy: rites, destinations and regional recipes

Foliage in Italy: visit the most beautiful places of the autumn season

Italian lakes: 4 good reasons to visit them

Easter traditions in Italy: 12 unmissable religious festivals

Epiphany in Italy: all the events to not be missed in 2024

The tradition of Easter Monday in Italy

Explore Italy like a local. From iconic attractions to amazing experiences, your journey begins on visititaly.eu 🇮🇹 Tag us and use #visititaly

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

33 Top Tourist Attractions in Italy

By Spencer Leasca · Last updated on March 22, 2024

Italy is home to the greatest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world. High art and monuments are to be found everywhere around the country. Its great cities of art, like Rome, Venice and Florence are world famous and have been attracting visitors for centuries.

Besides its art treasures Italy also features beautiful coasts, alpine lakes and mountains. No wonder it is often nicknamed the Bel Paese (beautiful country).

With so many amazing sights, putting together a compilation of things to do is no easy task. The following list of top tourist attractions in Italy however should give a good indication of why over 40 million foreign tourists visit this country ever year.

33. Trulli of Alberobello

The Trulli of Alberobello is a group of conical-roofed houses located in the town of Alberobello, in the Puglia region of Italy.

Built in the 14th century, the houses are made of stone and have a distinctive conical roof comprised of flat stones. Ingeniously they were put together without the use of mortar.

Over the years, The Trulli of Alberobello has become a popular tourist destination, attracting scores of visitors interested in traditional architecture and local history.

In 1996, the Trulli of Alberobello was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognising its cultural and architectural significance. Many of them have been restored and converted into holiday homes, restaurants, and shops. Thus, allowing visitors to experience this unique aspect of Puglia’s cultural heritage.

32. Island of Procida

Procida is a small island located in the Campania region of Italy, within the Bay of Naples.

The island is known for its colourful houses, picturesque fishing villages, and charming streets. Radiating a serene and unspoiled atmosphere, Procida is a popular destination for tourists who want to get away from the more crowded and touristy destinations of the nearby Amalfi Coast.

The island is famous for its incredible seafood cuisine. It also has a vibrant local culture that includes several festivals and events. Most notably, these include the Festa di Sant’Antonio Abate in January and the Festa di Santa Maria delle Grazie in September.

For those who want to go there, Procida is easily accessible by ferry from Naples, Ischia, and the Amalfi Coast.

31. Ponte Vecchio in Florence

The Ponte Vecchio is one of Florence’s most famous landmarks.

Rich in character, the medieval bridge crosses the Arno River and is lined with shops. Many of which sell gold jewellery and other high-end items.

The Ponte Vecchio has been a center of commerce since the 13th century and is one of Europe’s oldest and most historic bridges.

Remarkably, the Ponte Vecchio was also the only bridge in Florence to survive the German retreat during World War II. It has since become a symbol of the city’s resilience and history.

A hugely popular tourist attraction , the bridge is often crowed with tourists. Visitors can admire its picturesque architecture, stroll along its bustling shopping streets, and take in the views of the Arno River.

30. Verona Arena

The city of Verona is largely known for its role in the play Romeo and Juliet, but dating back even further is the Verona Arena. This incredible arena is actually a Roman amphitheater constructed 2,000 years ago.

Despite its age, the Verona Arena is remarkably well preserved, and at its peak it hosted performances for more than 30,000 people.

It is still in use today as a performance venue, enjoying a status as one of the largest open-air opera venues in the world. Over the years, famous operas like Aida, La Traviata, and Romeo and Juliet have all been performed here.

Surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and shops, the area around the venue is a popular spot for evening walks. Thus, making it a hub of cultural activity in Verona.

29. Herculaneum

Herculaneum was an ancient Roman city destroyed, along with Pompeii, in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.

It was preserved for centuries under layers of ash and pumice before being discovered in the 18th century. Since then, it has become a popular tourist destination and a key site for studying ancient Roman life and culture. The site is known for its well-preserved buildings and innovative use of concrete and waterproofing techniques.

Herculaneum was a smaller city than Pompeii but is better preserved, with many buildings and frescoes still evident.

Visitors to Herculaneum can see a range of well-preserved ancient structures, including houses, thermal baths, and a theatre. Also visible are the remains of shops, public squares, and streets.

Elba is an island nestled off the coast of Tuscany in the Tyrrhenian Sea.

The island has a long history, and it was previously inhabited by Ligures Ilvates, Greeks, Etruscans and Romans. Elba’s most famous resident, however, was Napoleon, who was banished to Elba in 1814. Napoleon’s winter and summer homes still stand, and they are available for the public to tour.

Easily accessible by ferry from the mainland, it is the largest island in the Tuscan Archipelago. It is also a popular holiday destination for Italians and international tourists.

Known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rolling hills, Elba is covered in vineyards and olive groves. The island is also rich in culture. Boasting several quaint medieval towns and historic fortifications, you should explore if you have the time.

One of Elba’s big attractions is that it is a fantastic destination for outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and water sports. It is also noted for its local cuisine, particularly seafood and olive oil.

27. Gran Paradiso National Park

Nestled in the Graian Alps is Gran Paradiso National Park, a gorgeous destination with stunning mountain views and incredible hiking opportunities. The Gran Paradiso National Park was first established as a way to protect the local ibex population.

The wildlife today includes those ibex as well as badgers, wolves, lynx, ermine and more than 100 bird species.

The park is easily accessible by car from the nearby towns. Seasonal things to do include summer hiking, spotting the foliage in autumn, cross-country skiing in winter and photographing flowers come spring.

Its main attraction is the Gran Paradiso peak, the highest mountain entirely in Italy. Scaling the peak provides sensational panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks.

26. Palazzo Ducale in Urbino

The Palazzo Ducale is an enormous Renaissance palace located in the city of Urbino, in the Marche region of Italy .

Designed by the famous architect Luciano Laurana, it was built in the 15th century and served as the residence of the Duke of Urbino.

The Palazzo Ducale features some notable architectural elements. They include a central courtyard, a grand staircase, and a series of loggias and balconies.

The palace is also known for its outstanding art collection, which includes pieces by artists such as Piero della Francesca and Raphael. The latter of which lived and worked in the palace during the Renaissance.

Today, the Palazzo Ducale is a museum and cultural centre. It is open to visitors, who can explore its halls, courtyards, and exhibitions.

25. Trevi Fountain in Rome

One of the must-see attractions in Rome is the Trevi Fountain. The fountain was constructed in 1762 by Nicola Salvi, and it depicts the god Neptune surrounded by underwater creatures in battle.

Trevi Fountain is known as a place to throw in a coin to secure a return trip to Rome, and throwing two coins can secure a loving relationships with a Roman man or woman.

When lit up at night, the fountain looks spectacular, and many visitors come to see it under illumination in the dark. It is a popular spot for evening strolls and is a romantic venue to propose to your loved one.

See also: Where to Stay in Rome

24. Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan

The Holy Mary of Grace, or Santa Maria delle Grazie is a church and Dominican convent located in Milan . The church was built in the 15th century and is best known for being the home of Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting of ‘The Last Supper’.

Depicting the moment when Jesus told his disciples that one of them would betray him, the painting resides in a refectory attached to the church. It is one of the world’s most famous, impressive and studied works of art and attracts millions of visitors annually.

Today, Santa Maria delle Grazie is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As well as the famous painting, visitors can also explore the church and its enchanting surroundings. Should you wish to come here, it is best to arrive early, or just before it closes, to beat the crowds.

See also: Where to Stay in Milan

23. La Pelosa

Off the western coast of the mainland, and in the heart of the Tyrrhenian Sea, is the island of Sardinia .

While Sardinia boasts a number of stunning beaches , none is so picturesque or well-known as La Pelosa. The beach is so spectacular because of its sandy shores and shallow waters, making it easy to see right down to the ground through crystal-clear sea.

La Pelosa is often compared to the Caribbean, bringing some of the tropics to Italy. Surfing, kayaking and even scuba diving are all possible things to do at or near La Pelosa.

22. Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna

Dating back to the 6th century, the Basilica of San Vitale is a spectacular church in Ravenna .

Renowned for its Byzantine architecture, the church is famous for its stunning mosaic decorations. They cover its walls, ceilings, and floor and depict scenes from the Bible.

The church is also known for its circular plan, a unique feature among early Christian churches. Its grand dome, which dominates the structure’s interior, is also notable.

The Basilica of San Vitale is yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Italy. The church is open to visitors, who can explore its interior and admire its intricate mosaic decorations.

If you want to fully appreciate its historical and cultural significance, it is worth booking a guided tour of it.

21. Dolomites

The Dolomites are a spectacular mountain range in the northern Italian Alps. They are known for their distinctive jagged peaks, which are made of dolomite rock and have a characteristic reddish-brown color.

A popular tourist destination, The Dolomites attract outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.

It offers visitors many opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, skiing, and snowboarding.

The area is also famous for its picturesque alpine landscapes, lush green valleys and crystal-clear lakes. All of which form stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges.

The Dolomites are also home to several historic villages, including Castelrotto, Cortina d’Ampezzo, and Selva Val Gardena. They are popular places to visit for those seeking a traditional Italian alpine experience.

20. Basilica di San Francesco in Assisi

The Basilica di San Francesco, or Basilica of Saint Francis, is one of the most significant religious pilgrimage sites in Italy. Located in Assisi, the basilica was constructed in the 13th century to honor Saint Francis himself.

Although Saint Francis was a man of simplicity and poverty, the basilica is anything but. The Romanesque structure was built with two levels as well as a crypt, ornate windows and thousands of pieces of art. The Basilica di San Francesco consists of two churches, the Upper Church and the Lower Church.

The Upper Church is famous for its frescoes, painted by some of the greatest artists of the Italian Renaissance. Most notably Giotto, Simone Martini, and Pietro Lorenzetti. These frescoes depict scenes from the bible and of the life of St. Francis. The Lower Church is better known for its simplicity and elegance.

19. Sassi di Matera

In the town of Matera, there are a collection of ancient cave dwellings known collectively as the Sassi di Matera. These dwellings are thought of as the very first human settlement in all of Italy, and they may be as many as 9,000 years old.

The dwellings are carved right out of the rock, and many of these caves still house homes, businesses and cafes today. It is an incredible experience to tour ancient caves from early humans and then sip local wines from a similar cave just a short walk away.

18. Mount Etna

Mount Etna is an active volcano located on the east coast of Sicily . It is one of the most active volcanoes in Europe and can erupt a few times a year.

Geologists and volcanologists consider Etna to be a vital site for scientific research. Experts study it to understand its volcanic activity and the processes that shape the Earth’s surface.

Located within a national park called Parco dell’Etna, the precipice towers to a height of about 3,329 metres. It dominates a landscape of lush forests, rolling hills, and rugged, volcanic terrain.

Walking along the craters and fissures is one of the most spectral things to do in Italy and those who dare to get close enough can see the lava or steam. The volcanic soil is renowned for growing grapes, which means the visitors to Mount Etna will have access to an array of fantastic local wine.

17. Duomo of Orvieto

The Duomo of Orvieto is a cathedral located in the central Italian town of Orvieto.

Famous for its magnificent façade, it is one of the country’s pre-eminent examples of Gothic architecture. The cathedral was built over several centuries, starting in the 13th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It was conceived to be a grand and imposing structure that would demonstrate the power and wealth of the town.

Its façade has sculptures and reliefs depicting scenes from the Bible. It also portrays intricate patterns and the lives of saints and allegorical figures.

Inside, the cathedral’s interior is equally impressive. Much of the artwork in the Duomo, which depicts apocalyptic stories and tales from Revelation, were done by Luca Signorelli.

16. Pizza Napoletana

While you’ll find excellent pizza all over Italy, there’s one place that’s absolutely the best: Naples . This is where pizza was born and where it’s still king.

Unlike pizza in places like the United States, Neapolitan pizza is generally very thin-crusted and saucy and is expected to be eaten as a whole pie while sitting down.

Although every pizzeria in Naples makes a decent pizza, some places display the label “Vera Pizza Napoletana” which indicates that the pizzeria follows the standards of The Naples Pizza Association.

See also: Where to Stay in Naples

15. Portofino

With its picture-perfect harbor, verdant scenery and haphazard rows of hilltop and waterfront homes, Portofino is one of the prettiest towns on the Italian Riviera.

Located just a short drive south of Genoa , the little fishing village has been a popular day-trip destination for centuries.

Portofino is home to landmarks like the 16th century fort called Castello Brown and the 11th century church called St. Martin, but the real attraction in Portofino is the relaxed way of life.

Visitors come to stroll along the Ligurian coastline, shop for souvenir glass jewelry and dine on Italian cuisine paired with the local Pinot Grigios.

14. St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice

St. Mark’s Basilica, known to locals as the Basilica di San Marco, is the crowning jewel of the Piazza San Marco in Venice .

The enormous church was completed in the 11th century, and it boasts more than 500 columns, several stunning domes and countless Byzantine mosaics that use gold extensively.

Also of note are the bronze Horses of Saint Mark, which date back to antiquity and watch over the basilica’s entrances. Be sure not to miss the treasury or the Museo Marciano, both of which contain a staggering collection of early gifts like jewels, sculpture and tapestries.

Capri is a small island located in the Gulf of Naples.

It is known for its stunning rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, scenic cliffs and grottoes. Capri is also famous for its luxurious lifestyle, attracting many wealthy visitors and A-List celebrities.

The island accommodates several cultural and historical landmarks. These include the Villa Jovis, which served as the Roman Emperor Tiberius’s residence. It also hosts the Blue Grotto, a sea cave renowned for its intense blue light. Surrounded by charming cafes and shops, the Piazzetta is a picturesque square that is also well worth visiting.

Whilst on Capri , there are also many opportunities for outdoor activities on the island. Visitors can enjoy swimming and boating. Exploring the many scenic trails and paths hat wind through its rugged terrain are also popular things to do.

12. St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome

The star attraction of the Vatican in Rome is St. Peter’s Basilica. Arguably, it is the most famous church in the world. It is also the centre of the Catholic Church.

The basilica is named in honor of St. Peter. One of the twelve apostles of Jesus, he is said to be buried beneath its altar.

The current building was completed in 1626 after over 120 years of construction. It is a huge church with an interior that could fit a space shuttle together with its booster rockets. The St. Peter features a mix of Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles.

Many people come to St. Peter’s Basilica for mass. However, even if you are not religious, it is worth coming here to see the impressive artwork.

That includes several sculptures by Michelangelo. It also incorporates its stunning centrepiece dome, designed by Bramante, Michelangelo, and Bernini.

11. Valley of the Temples

The Valley of the Temples is an archaeological site in Agrigento on the island of Sicily.

It is notable for containing the remains of several ancient Greek temples from the 5th century BC. These include the Temple of Hera (Juno), the Temple of Concordia, and the Temple of Heracles (Hercules).

The site impresses with its well-preserved Doric-style columns and the stunning views it portrays of the surrounding countryside.

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is one of the most important examples of ancient Greek architecture outside of Greece.

A prominent attraction in Sicily, The Valley of the Temples is a must-visit for those interested in archaeology, ancient history, and architecture.

10. San Gimignano

San Gimignano is a picturesque hill town in the Tuscan hills of Italy. It is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture and its 14 iconic towers.

At the height of San Gimignano’s wealth and power, more than 70 towers were built to defend the town against enemy attacks.

After the plague devastated the city in 1348, San Gimignano’s power faded, which kept enemies away and preserved many of the city’s medieval towers.

Easy to get to from Florence and Siena, the town is known for making delicious white wine – Vernaccia di San Gimignano. It also has a vibrant atmosphere, with several celebratory events and festivals taking place throughout the year.

9. Manarola

Located in the province of La Spezia, Manarola is a small town in the Liguria region of Italy. It is best known as one of the fabulous five towns that make up the Cinque Terre .

Manarola features brightly colored houses, steep cliffs, and breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea. It is a favored destination for those who enjoy photography and painting.

The town is a popular destination for tourists who like hiking and boating. It also has several quaint cafes and restaurants that serve delicious menus of local cuisine.

If you don’t fancy walking the Cinque Terre trail, don’t worry, you can always get to Manarola via the train line that connects the five towns.

8. Leaning Tower of Pisa

The world famous Pisa Tower was built over a period of about 177 years. Soon after the construction started in 1173 the tower began to sink due to a poorly laid foundation and was left alone for almost a century.

When the construction resumed the engineers built higher floors with one side taller than the other to compensate for the tilt and the tower was finally finished in the 2nd half of the 14th century. Since 2001, the famous tower in Pisa is again open to those wishing to climb it’s 296 steps.

7. Lake Como

Lake Como is part of the Italian Lake District an area popular with visitors for well over 100 years for its combination of fresh air, water, mountains and good weather.

The lake is shaped much like an inverted ‘Y’, with two branches starting at Como in the south-west and Lecco in the south-east, which join together half way up and the lake continues up to Colico in the north.

Lake Como is famous for the attractive villas which have been built here since Roman times. Many have admirable gardens which benefit from the mild climate and are able to include tropical as well as temperate plants.

6. Positano

Positano is a small town located on the Amalfi Coast , a stretch of coastline renowned for its rugged terrain, scenic beauty, picturesque towns and diversity. The city seems to be scattered from top to bottom down a hillside leading to the coast.

Though Positano grew and prospered in medieval times, by the mid 19th more than half of the population was gone. In the 20th century it went from being a poor fishing village to one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy with the help of author John Steinbeck who wrote about its beauty.

Pompeii was an ancient Roman city near present-day Naples, buried by the volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.

But far from being destroyed, the city, along with its buildings, streets and art, were preserved under layers of ash and pumice.

Today, Pompeii is one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations. It also is a significant archaeological site, offering a glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome.

The ruins include well-preserved public buildings, such as the forum, temples, and bathhouses. It also incorporates private homes, which feature elaborate frescoes and mosaics.

When visiting Pompeii, be aware the site is very exposed to the elements. So make sure you take an umbrella with you if it looks like rain. Also, wear a hat on hot, sunny days.

4. Piazza del Campo in Siena

One of Europe’s greatest medieval squares, the Piazza del Campo is the principal public space of the historic center of Siena , Tuscany . It is renowned worldwide for its beauty and architectural integrity.

The Palazzo Pubblico and its famous tower, as well as various palazzi signorili belonging to the wealthiest of Siena families surround the shell-shaped piazza.

The twice-per-year horse-race, Palio di Siena, involves circling the Piazza del Campo, on which a thick layer of dirt has been laid, three times and usually lasts no more than 90 seconds.

3. Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence

Santa Maria del Fiore is the main cathedral of Florence . Also known as the Duomo, it is one of the city’s most famous landmarks.

A remarkable example of Gothic architecture, the cathedral took over 140 years to be built. On completion in 1436, it was consecrated by Pope Eugene IV.

The cathedral is known for its distinctive pink and green marble facade and its massive dome, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. At the time, it was regarded as an engineering feat. It remains one of the largest domes in the world.

The interior of the cathedral is richly decorated with frescoes and features a large nave. It also boasts ornate side chapels and a high altar.

2. Grand Canal in Venice

Referred to as “The City of Water”, Venice is the crown jewel of water cities.

Though, Venice has decayed since its heyday and has more tourists than residents, with its romantic charm it remains one of the top tourist destinations in Italy. The central waterway in the city is the Grand Canal, and it snakes its way through the city between the lagoon and the Saint Mark Basin.

While strolling through Venice offers plenty of opportunities to see the Grand Canal, the best way to experience it is on the water. Locals get around via the water buses called vaporetti, but many travelers prefer the private water taxis or even the romantic gondola.

See also: Where to Stay in Venice

1. Colosseum in Rome

The Colosseum is arguably Italy’s most famous attraction.

Rome’s historic amphitheater is one of the greatest engineering feats of ancient times. Completed in 80 AD, it was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles, such as animal hunts and mock sea battles. At its peak, it could seat up to 50,000 spectators.

Whilst it has been damaged over the centuries due to natural disasters, looting, and stone quarrying, much of the structure remains.

Now protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site, The Colosseum can be visited independently or as part of a guided tour.

However you choose to see it, a good tip is to visit this venue about an hour before sunset. That way, you see it during the day. Then at dusk, and most spectacularly under lights at night, as the light fades.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Italy

Share this post:

10 Most Beautiful National Parks in Italy

10 Most Underrated Destinations in Italy

How to Spend 2 Weeks in Italy: DIY Itinerary

10 Best Beaches in Italy

23 Best Places to Visit in Italy

14 Gorgeous Small Towns in Italy

10 Most Beautiful Italian Islands

20 Most Beautiful Regions of Italy

11 Most Amazing Hotels in Italy

17 Best Cities to Visit in Italy

FACTS ABOUT ITALY – 14 Things You Probably Didn’t Know!

Italy is one of the most popular countries in the world. How much do you actually KNOW about it though? Whenever I visit a new country, I like to study up on the facts, and I usually find some very interesting things that I didn’t already know. I first did this in Perth , Australia, and again in Jakarta , Indonesia. Both times, I found some really weird stuff that I wouldn’t have known otherwise!

There are plenty of amazing Facts about Italy, and most of them would probably surprise you. I know they surprised me!

So today I have put together 14 of my favorite!

Table of Contents

Rome is actually 2000 years old, italy is one of europe’s youngest countries, much of southern italy once belonged to ancient greece, italy is the 5th most visited country in the world, tourists throw over €3000 in the trevi fountain every day, the city of venice is sinking, europe’s only 3 active volcanoes are in italy, the vatican is the smallest country in the world, italy has over 1500 lakes, italy has the most unesco heritage listed sites in the world, italy is home to the oldest university in the world, pizza was invented in naples, italy has a free wine fountain, italy has the 3rd oldest population in the world, facts about italy – history.

A country as amazing as Italy is bound to have some pretty cool history. There are actually a LOT of very interesting facts about Italy that date back thousands of years. So much, in fact, that it would be REALLY hard to list them all. So here I have listed just a few of my favorites.

It’s hard to believe, but true. Rome is actually that old!

We have all heard about the Roman Empire, and understand that it ruled Europe for a very long time. Personally, I had never actually put together the numbers to understand how long ago that really was.

So when WAS it?

The city of Rome was founded way back in 753BC. The Roman Empire, however, was not formed until 27 BC. As we all know from books and movies, (as well as actual history), that Empire went on to dominate Europe and Northern Africa. It ruled over these continents until 395AD. After the Empire crumbled, Italy broke apart and formed different states for a long period.

How long? Check out the next fact…

The country of Italy was only formed in 1861. As countries go, that makes it very, very young. Especially in Europe.

Up until then the country had been made up of many different independent states. These had been formed after the fall of the Roman Empire. There were 11 states in all, with Venice probably being the most famous. It even had claimed its very own colonies along the coastline that is modern day Croatia!

Italy only became a single nation under King Victor Emmanuel II, and even then it took a few years to accomplish!

Believe it or not, there is an upside. Any visitor to Italy will be able to attest to how differing the culture can be as you travel around the country. This can be almost entirely attributed to that very long period in time that the country was split apart. The Italy that we know and love today was the result!

Ancient Greece was a lot bigger than most people give it credit for. One of the most interesting and lesser known facts about Italy is that the Greek Empire actually called Southern Italy home.

But it wasn’t just Southern Italy. In fact, Sicily was also a large part of the Empire. At one stage, the city of Syracuse was the largest city in the Greek Empire. It was even bigger than Athens!

To this day, much of that Greek influence still remains, and there are even pockets of Sicily that still speak Greek!

Facts About Italy – Tourism

The tourism Industry in Italy is responsible for 5 percent of its total economy. That’s a large chunk! With good reason too. Tourists flock to Italy every single year, from all over the world. Why? Because it’s amazing, that’s why!

Italy sees almost 100 million tourists a year, and sits in 5th spot for the most international tourists per annum.

The majority of visitors head to the big name cities and attractions, such as Venice , Rome, Milan and Florence. These places alone can be crowded with tourists at most times of the year. Winter tourism is also very popular in Italy, with visitors crowding into the ski resorts of the Dolomites every season.

So what draws this many tourists to Italy? The answer is simple.

The Culture, Food, Architecture and History. The Fashion and the Art. The list goes on. There is not one city or town in Italy that is not overflowing with all of these, and you don’t HAVE to be in the big cities to experience it.

If you want to visit Italy, and get away from the crowds, consider seeking out some smaller towns or Hidden Gems. There are plenty to find!

That’s a LOT of revenue for the city. It actually amounts to over €1,000,000 every year!

So what happens to all of that money? Well, obviously it is illegal to try and fish the money out of the water yourself! There are actually very large penalties if you are caught. So don’t try.

All of the proceeds from the Trevi Fountain are given to charity, or at least, used for charitable purposes. Which is a wonderful concept, and makes me even more willing to throw my hard earned into its waters.

Which begs the question – WHY do people throw so much money in?

Well, according to legend, if you throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain, then you are destined to return to Rome one day. If you throw in TWO coins, then you are destined to live there. Three? You will find love in Rome. There IS a catch though. You must throw the coin over your left shoulder, or else you may be bringing some bad luck upon yourself instead….

It’s a fact. Anybody that has ever been to Venice would understand, and it would probably not be a real surprise.

I come from a place in Australia where they built great mansions on reclaimed sand from the ocean. Those structures are slowly failing, and many of the ones that were built early on are sinking.

So it goes for Venice, where a city built on reclaimed land is getting the same result. They say that by the year 2100 it will be totally submerged. Even today, the city floods almost every winter. We have all seen the photos of Saint Marks Square under a foot of water.

Add to the fact that the sea levels in the Mediterranean are also rising, and the prospects are not good for one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations!

Facts About Italy – Geography

One of the Facts about Italy that you will read regularly is that one third of it is covered in mountains. This is true, but the Geography facts about Italy do not stop there!

Italy “enjoys” the fact that it is home to the only 3 active volcanoes in Europe. The reason for this is its location in relation to the plates in the Earth’s crust. This is just above the boundary of the Eurasian Plate and the African Plate. The meeting of these plates, and the effect of them overlapping causes volcanic activity.

So what are the volcanoes in question?

In no particular order they are –

• Mount Vesuvius near Naples which last erupted in 1944. It was famously responsible for the destruction of Pompeii , and to this day is still the only active volcano found in mainland Europe.
• Mount Etna in Sicily which still sees continuous volcanic activity, as recently as 2021.
• Stromboli, on the Aeolian Islands which saw an explosive eruption as recently as 2019.

In 1929 the Vatican became a City State, totally independent from Italy. It is officially overseen by the Pope, and covers an area of 121 acres, with a population of just over 800.

The Vatican City State, known simply as The Vatican, is the smallest country in the world by both population and area. Within the City State are such famous buildings as the Sistine Chapel, St Peter’s Basilica, and the Vatican Museums which house some of the most famous paintings and sculptures in the world.

Italy is famous for some of its lakes. In particular, such places as Lake Como and Lake Garda are known worldwide and visited by tens of thousands every year. But did you know that there are more lakes than just the famous ones? Over 1500, in fact.

These lakes are located everywhere. Some are hidden, and found only by the adventurous. Others are right out in the open, but passed by as people head for the “well known” lakes.

All of Italy’s lakes are gorgeous, and it is easy to find one and have it nearly to yourself. High in the mountains, or right next door to a major city. You don’t really have to venture far to find one.

Italy has now fully overtaken China to have the most sites listed as UNESCO HERITAGE sites.

Their record now sits at 58, just ahead of China on 56.

These sites range from the Dolomites, to Venice and Rome. You can find them stretched right across the entire length of Italy, which makes the country an even more wonderful place to visit.

As if it wasn’t already!

Facts About Italy – Culture

If you are making a list of Facts about Italy, you just HAVE to include some cultural facts. It is the culture of Italy that really makes the country what it is. Sure, the country side is beautiful, and the scenery is incredible. It is the culture though, that people come to Italy to REALLY experience!

Where? In Bologna.

Yes, the University of Bologna is the oldest University in the world. It was founded in 1088, and is even older than Oxford University. But not by much.

The term “university” comes from the Latin “universitas magistrorum et scholarium”, which means “community of teachers and scholars”. The term was first used by the University of Bologna, and obviously is still used today.

The modern day pizza was invented in Naples. Throughout history, however, there have been many variations of flatbreads that were probably the early origins of the humble pizza we know today.

Some believe it was around the 1700’s that the first true pizza was born in Naples. It was a baker by the name of Raphaelle Esposito, though, that is given most of the credit for inventing the Pizza Pie. There is a legend that when King Umberto I and Queen Margherita visited Naples, Esposito cooked for them a Pizza and topped it with fresh tomato, basil and Mozzarella Cheese. This famously became known as the Margherita Pizza, and is still known as that to this day.

Italy is famous worldwide for its wines. It is also one of the most well known facts about Italy that the country is the largest producer of wine in the world. Now, to add to the reasons for any wine love to visit Italy, there is also a FREE Wine Fountain!

This amazing concept has been built by the Dora Sarchese Vineyard in Abruzzo, on the East Coast of Central Italy. The wine fountain will run continuously, and be absolutely free to drink from.

A whopping 23 percent of the population of Italy is aged 65 or older. That’s incredible!

The only older populations in the world are in Japan and Monaco. Japan, in first spot has 29 percent of its population 65 years old or older.

In Italy, the average age is 45.9 years old. This will only increase in coming years.

The Reason? There are a couple of theories, but the most obvious are probably also the most true. There is a very low birth rate in Italy, and extreme longevity. So the math just adds up.

There is even one small town on the coastline south of Naples that claims to have over 300 residents over 100 years old! Scientists from all over the world want to know why, as do we!

There are plenty of amazing Facts about Italy. I could have made a list of hundreds of them. I hope you have enjoyed some of my favorites!

If you have any others that you think should be on my list, then feel free to drop them into the comments below.

For more articles about Italy , including places to visit and hidden gems, click the link below.

DON’T FORGET to leave a comment below. I promise to reply!

This article may contain affiliate links. If you click on those links and make a purchase, at no extra cost to you I will get a small commission. This will go a long way toward keeping this website running. As always, thank you for your support! Click HERE for more information.

Related posts

HIDDEN GEMS OF BULGARIA

Paris to Beauvais Airport – The Cheapest Way

IS PARIS OVERRATED? The Answer Will Surprise You

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Tourism in Italy

Disclaimer: Some posts on Tourism Teacher may contain affiliate links. If you appreciate this content, you can show your support by making a purchase through these links or by buying me a coffee . Thank you for your support!

Tourism in Italy is big business! But why is this industry so important and why does it matter? Read on to find out…

The geography of Italy

The most popular tourist attractions in italy, the most popular types of tourism in italy, the economic impacts of tourism in italy, the social impacts of tourism in italy, the environmental impacts of tourism in italy, faqs about tourism in italy, to conclude: tourism in italy.

Italy is located in southern Europe and is shaped like a boot, extending into the Mediterranean Sea. Here are some key geographical features and characteristics of Italy:

1. Borders: Italy shares land borders with France, Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia. It is also surrounded by the Adriatic Sea, Ionian Sea, Tyrrhenian Sea, and the Ligurian Sea.

2. Peninsulas: Italy is primarily composed of the Italian Peninsula, which stretches into the central Mediterranean Sea. The peninsula is home to several distinct regions, including the Apennine Mountains that run the length of the country.

3. Islands: Italy has numerous islands, the largest of which are Sicily and Sardinia. These islands are located in the Mediterranean Sea and have their own unique geography , culture, and attractions.

4. Mountains: The Italian Peninsula is characterised by the Apennine Mountains, which run from north to south. The highest peak in Italy, Monte Bianco (Mont Blanc), is part of the Alps and is located in the northwest near the border with France.

5. Volcanoes: Italy is known for its volcanoes, including Mount Etna in Sicily, Stromboli and Vulcano in the Aeolian Islands, and Mount Vesuvius near Naples. These volcanoes have shaped the landscape of the region and attract visitors from around the world.

6. Lakes: Italy is home to several beautiful lakes, including Lake Como, Lake Garda, and Lake Maggiore in the northern part of the country. These lakes offer stunning scenery and recreational opportunities.

7. Rivers: Italy has several significant rivers, including the Po, which is the longest river in Italy and flows across the northern part of the country. Other notable rivers include the Tiber, Arno, and Adige.

8. Coastal Areas: Italy has a diverse coastline that stretches for thousands of kilometres. From the stunning Amalfi Coast in the south to the rugged cliffs of Cinque Terre and the sandy beaches of Sardinia, Italy offers a variety of coastal landscapes.

9. Climate: Italy has a predominantly Mediterranean climate, characterised by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. However, the climate can vary significantly from region to region due to the country’s diverse geography.

10. Natural Beauty: Italy is renowned for its natural beauty, with picturesque landscapes, vineyards, olive groves, and rolling hills. From the breathtaking Dolomites in the north to the scenic countryside of Tuscany, Italy offers stunning vistas and opportunities for outdoor activities.

The geography of Italy contributes to its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and popular tourist destinations, making it a fascinating country to explore.

The tourism industry in Italy is a significant sector of the country’s economy. Italy has a rich cultural heritage, historical sites, beautiful landscapes, and renowned cuisine, which attract millions of tourists from around the world. Here are some key points about the tourism industry in Italy:

1. Tourist Arrivals: Italy consistently ranks among the top tourist destinations globally. In recent years, the country has welcomed over 60 million international tourist arrivals annually.

2. World Heritage Sites: Italy boasts the highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world. Iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum and Roman Forum in Rome, the historic centre of Florence, the archaeological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum, and the historic city of Venice attract a large number of tourists.

3. Cultural Tourism: Italy’s cultural heritage is a major draw for tourists. Visitors come to explore famous museums like the Uffizi Gallery and the Vatican Museums, admire Renaissance art and architecture, and experience the rich history of cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice.

4. Coastal and Beach Tourism: Italy’s long coastline along the Mediterranean Sea offers numerous beach destinations. The Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, Sardinia, and Sicily are particularly popular for their scenic beauty, crystal-clear waters, and charming coastal towns.

5. Culinary Tourism: Italian cuisine is celebrated worldwide, and food tourism is a significant aspect of the industry. Visitors come to indulge in traditional Italian dishes such as pasta, pizza, gelato, and regional specialties like Tuscan wines, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, and truffles.

6. Art and Fashion: Italy is renowned for its contributions to art and fashion. Cities like Milan are international fashion hubs, hosting fashion weeks and attracting fashion enthusiasts. Museums and galleries, such as the Galleria degli Uffizi and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, showcase remarkable artworks.

7. Natural Beauty: Italy’s diverse landscapes offer opportunities for nature tourism. From the stunning lakes of Como and Garda to the breathtaking Dolomite Mountains and the picturesque Tuscan countryside, visitors can explore and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and boating.

8. Religious Tourism: Italy is a popular destination for religious tourism due to its deep-rooted Catholic heritage. The Vatican City, with St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, attracts pilgrims and tourists alike.

9. Infrastructure: Italy has a well-developed tourism infrastructure, including hotels, resorts, transportation networks, and tourist services. Major cities have international airports and efficient public transportation systems to facilitate travel within the country.

10. Economic Contribution: Tourism plays a vital role in Italy’s economy, contributing significantly to employment and revenue generation. It supports various sectors such as hospitality, transportation, food and beverage, retail, and cultural industries.

The tourism industry in Italy continues to evolve, adapting to changing travel trends and demands. The country’s rich heritage, natural beauty, and diverse offerings ensure its enduring appeal as a top tourist destination.

Statistics about tourism in Italy 

Here are some statistics about tourism in Italy that emphasise the importance of the industry:

1. International Tourist Arrivals: Italy is one of the most visited countries globally, with over 66 million international tourist arrivals in 2019.

2. Tourism Revenue: In 2019, tourism generated around 43 billion euros in revenue for Italy, contributing significantly to the country’s economy.

3. World Heritage Sites: Italy has the highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world, with a total of 58 sites. These sites include famous landmarks like the Colosseum, the historic centre of Rome, and the historic centre of Florence.

4. Popular Cities: Rome, Florence, and Venice are the most visited cities in Italy. Rome attracts the highest number of tourists, followed by Florence and Venice.

5. Coastal Destinations: Italy’s coastal areas are popular among tourists, with destinations like the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, and Sardinia attracting a large number of visitors each year.

6. Museums and Art Galleries: Italy is home to numerous world-class museums and art galleries. The Vatican Museums, which include the Sistine Chapel, and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence are among the most visited cultural attractions.

7. Cruise Tourism: Italy is a major hub for cruise tourism in the Mediterranean. Ports like Civitavecchia (near Rome), Venice, and Naples serve as starting points for many Mediterranean cruises.

8. Religious Tourism: Italy attracts a significant number of religious tourists due to its religious sites and pilgrimage destinations. The Vatican City, with St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, is a major draw for religious travellers.

9. Natural Parks: Italy is home to several national parks and protected areas, offering opportunities for nature tourism. Parks like Gran Paradiso National Park and Cinque Terre National Park attract outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

10. Wine Tourism: Italy is renowned for its wine production, and wine tourism is a growing segment. Regions like Tuscany, Piedmont, and Veneto are popular for wine tours and tastings.

These statistics highlight the popularity of Italy as a tourist destination, its rich cultural heritage, diverse attractions, and significant contributions of tourism to the country’s economy.

Italy is renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and world-class attractions. Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy:

1. Colosseum (Rome): The Colosseum is an ancient Roman amphitheatre and one of the most iconic landmarks in Italy. It attracts millions of visitors who come to marvel at its grandeur and learn about its historical significance.

2. Vatican City (Rome): Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world and the spiritual centre of Catholicism. It is home to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums (including the Sistine Chapel), and other significant religious and artistic treasures.

3. Florence Historic Center (Florence): The historic centre of Florence is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a treasure trove of Renaissance art and architecture. Visitors can explore the iconic Florence Cathedral (Duomo), Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, and other renowned landmarks.

4. Venice Canals (Venice): Venice is famous for its unique network of canals, picturesque bridges, and beautiful architecture. Visitors can take gondola rides, visit St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, and explore the charming neighbourhoods and hidden corners of the city.

5. Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius (Naples): Pompeii is an ancient Roman city buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Roman life and is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. Mount Vesuvius, an active volcano, offers hiking opportunities and panoramic views of the surrounding area.

6. Amalfi Coast: The Amalfi Coast is a stunning coastal region known for its dramatic cliffs, colourful seaside towns, and turquoise waters. Places like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello attract visitors with their charm, scenic beauty, and delicious cuisine.

7. Cinque Terre: Cinque Terre is a collection of five picturesque fishing villages perched on the rugged cliffs of the Italian Riviera. Visitors can hike along the scenic coastal trails, explore the colourful villages, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.

8. Tuscany: Tuscany is famous for its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming mediaeval towns. The cities of Florence, Siena, and Pisa, along with the beautiful countryside dotted with vineyards and olive groves, make Tuscany a must-visit destination.

9. Capri: Capri is a stunning island located in the Bay of Naples. It is known for its rugged coastline, the Blue Grotto (a sea cave with mesmerising blue waters), luxurious villas, and vibrant atmosphere.

10. Sicily: Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and offers a mix of ancient Greek ruins, stunning beaches, picturesque towns, and delicious cuisine. Visitors can explore attractions like the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, the city of Palermo, and the majestic Mount Etna.

These popular attractions showcase the diverse range of experiences and the immense cultural and natural beauty that Italy has to offer.

Italy attracts a wide range of tourists with diverse interests. Some of the most popular types of tourism in Italy include:

1. Cultural Tourism: Italy is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, including ancient Roman ruins, Renaissance art and architecture, and historical landmarks. Visitors come to explore cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice to immerse themselves in Italy’s cultural treasures.

2. Historical Tourism: Italy is home to numerous historical sites, including the Colosseum, Pompeii, and the ruins of ancient Roman cities. History enthusiasts visit Italy to learn about the country’s fascinating past and experience the remnants of ancient civilizations.

3. Art Tourism: Italy is a paradise for art lovers, with world-class museums, galleries, and renowned works of art. Cities like Florence, home to the Uffizi Gallery, and Rome, housing masterpieces in the Vatican Museums, attract art enthusiasts from around the world.

4. Gastronomic Tourism: Italian cuisine is famous worldwide, and food lovers flock to Italy to indulge in authentic Italian dishes. Each region in Italy has its own culinary specialties, from pasta and pizza in Naples to gelato in Florence and wine tasting in Tuscany.

5. Coastal Tourism: Italy’s stunning coastline, including the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, and Sardinia, attracts beachgoers and nature lovers. Visitors enjoy sunbathing, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and exploring picturesque coastal towns.

6. Nature Tourism: Italy offers diverse natural landscapes, including the Dolomites, Lake Como, and the Tuscan countryside. Outdoor enthusiasts come to enjoy hiking, cycling, skiing, and exploring the country’s scenic beauty.

7. Religious Tourism: Italy is a significant destination for religious tourism, especially for Catholic pilgrims. The Vatican City, home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Pope, attracts millions of religious tourists each year.

8. Fashion and Shopping Tourism: Italy is known as a fashion capital, with cities like Milan and Florence hosting renowned fashion shows and designer boutiques. Shopping enthusiasts visit Italy to indulge in high-end fashion and luxury shopping.

9. Wellness and Spa Tourism: Italy has a long history of thermal spas and wellness retreats. Visitors seek relaxation and rejuvenation in spa towns like Montecatini Terme and Abano Terme, known for their healing waters and wellness treatments.

10. Adventure Tourism: Italy offers opportunities for adventure tourism, including hiking in the Dolomites, skiing in the Italian Alps, and water sports along the coast. Outdoor enthusiasts can engage in activities like rock climbing, rafting, and paragliding.

These popular types of tourism highlight the diverse range of experiences that Italy offers, catering to various interests and preferences of visitors.

Tourism plays a significant role in Italy’s economy, contributing significantly to employment, GDP growth, and revenue generation. Here are some key economic impacts of tourism in Italy:

1. Contribution to GDP: Tourism is a major contributor to Italy’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). According to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), the direct contribution of travel and tourism to Italy’s GDP was 13.1% in 2019.

2. Employment Generation: The tourism industry in Italy provides employment opportunities to a significant portion of the population. It supports various sectors such as hospitality, transportation, retail, and entertainment, creating jobs for both skilled and unskilled workers.

3. Revenue Generation: Tourism generates substantial revenue for Italy through various channels, including accommodation, food and beverage services, transportation, and attractions. International tourists contribute significantly to foreign exchange earnings for the country.

4. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): Tourism in Italy supports a vibrant ecosystem of small and medium-sized enterprises, including hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and local artisans. These businesses benefit from the influx of tourists and play a vital role in the country’s economy.

5. Regional Development: Tourism in Italy helps to promote regional development and reduce economic disparities between different parts of Italy. It encourages investment in infrastructure, amenities, and services in less-developed regions, leading to economic growth and job creation.

6. Cultural Heritage Preservation: Italy’s rich cultural heritage is a significant draw for tourists. The revenue generated from tourism often contributes to the preservation and maintenance of historical sites, monuments, and cultural landmarks, ensuring their long-term sustainability.

7. Ancillary Services: Apart from direct tourism-related activities, there are several ancillary services that benefit from the tourism industry, such as travel agencies, tour guides, souvenir shops, and transportation services. These businesses thrive due to the high demand from tourists.

8. Foreign Investment: The tourism industry attracts foreign investment in Italy, leading to the development of new hotels, resorts, and infrastructure. Foreign investors see the potential in Italy’s tourism sector and contribute to its growth.

9. Rural and Agricultural Tourism: Italy’s countryside and agricultural regions also benefit from tourism. Agritourism, which involves farm stays, wine tours, and culinary experiences, helps support rural economies and promotes sustainable agricultural practices.

10. Trade and Exports: Tourism in Italy contributes to the growth of the trade sector in Italy. Tourists often purchase local products, including food and beverages, handicrafts, fashion items, and luxury goods, boosting domestic production and exports.

These economic impacts highlight the importance of tourism in Italy, both as a driver of economic growth and as a catalyst for job creation and regional development. The industry’s resilience and ability to adapt to changing travel trends are crucial for Italy’s overall economic well-being.

The tourism industry in Italy has several social impacts on both the local communities and the visitors themselves. Here are some key social impacts of tourism in Italy:

1. Cultural Exchange: Tourism in Italy facilitates cultural exchange between visitors and locals. Tourists have the opportunity to learn about Italian traditions, customs, and heritage, while locals can share their culture, history, and way of life with visitors. This exchange of ideas and experiences promotes mutual understanding and appreciation.

2. Preservation of Cultural Heritage: Italy is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, including historical sites, monuments, museums, and art. Tourism in Italy contributes to the preservation and restoration of these cultural assets. The revenue generated from tourism in Italy often goes towards the maintenance and conservation of historical sites and cultural landmarks, ensuring their continued existence for future generations.

3. Revitalization of Local Traditions and Crafts: Tourism in Italy can help revitalise local traditions and crafts in Italy. Artisans, craftsmen, and traditional artisans benefit from the demand for authentic handmade products, such as ceramics, textiles, leather goods, and jewellery. This supports local economies and helps preserve traditional skills and craftsmanship.

4. Community Development: Tourism in Italy contributes to community development in Italy by creating employment opportunities and income sources. It supports small businesses, hotels, restaurants, and other local establishments, stimulating economic growth in communities and improving the overall quality of life for residents.

5. Celebration of Local Festivals and Events: Tourists often participate in local festivals and events, contributing to their success and fostering a sense of community pride. These events showcase Italy’s cultural heritage and traditions, and the presence of tourists helps to promote and preserve these celebrations.

6. Education and Learning: Tourism in Italy offers educational opportunities for both visitors and locals. Tourists can gain insights into Italian history, art, architecture, cuisine, and lifestyle through guided tours, museums, and cultural experiences. Similarly, locals working in the tourism industry often acquire knowledge about other cultures, languages, and customs through interactions with visitors.

7. Cross-Cultural Understanding: Tourism in Italy fosters cross-cultural understanding and tolerance. Visitors from different countries and backgrounds have the chance to interact with locals, learn about their way of life, and gain a deeper understanding of their perspectives and values. This promotes cultural empathy and breaks down stereotypes.

8. Pride and Identity: The presence of tourists in Italy often instils a sense of pride and identity among the local population. It reinforces the significance of their cultural heritage, traditions, and natural beauty. Locals take pride in sharing their country with visitors and serving as ambassadors for their culture.

9. Infrastructure Development: The growth of tourism in Italy has led to infrastructure development in many areas. Improved transportation networks, better facilities, and amenities benefit not only tourists but also local residents. These infrastructure improvements enhance the overall quality of life in communities and support the needs of both residents and visitors.

10. Social Cohesion and Integration: Tourism in Italy can foster social cohesion and integration in Italy. Visitors from diverse backgrounds interact with locals, creating opportunities for cultural exchange, understanding, and integration. Tourism can bridge gaps between different communities and promote inclusivity.

These social impacts highlight the positive effects of tourism in Italy, fostering cultural exchange, preserving heritage, supporting local communities, and promoting social cohesion. However, it’s important to manage tourism sustainably to mitigate any potential negative social impacts and ensure the well-being of both visitors and locals.

The tourism industry in Italy, like in any other destination, can have both positive and negative environmental impacts. Here are some key environmental impacts of tourism in Italy:

1. Carbon Emissions: Tourism activities, especially air travel, contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. The transportation of tourists to and within Italy, as well as the energy consumption of accommodations, can result in increased carbon emissions. However, efforts are being made to promote sustainable transportation options and reduce the carbon footprint of the tourism sector.

2. Pressure on Natural Resources: The high influx of tourists in popular destinations can put pressure on natural resources, including water, energy, and land. Increased water consumption, energy usage, and waste generation from tourism activities can strain local infrastructure and ecosystems. Sustainable practices, such as water and energy conservation measures, are crucial in mitigating these impacts.

3. Land Use and Development: The development of tourism infrastructure, including hotels, resorts, and recreational facilities, can lead to the conversion of natural areas or agricultural land into built-up environments. Unplanned and uncontrolled development can disrupt ecosystems, fragment habitats, and contribute to loss of biodiversity. Responsible planning and land-use management are essential to minimise these impacts.

4. Waste Generation: Tourism in Italy generates significant amounts of waste, including packaging, food waste, and other disposable items. Inadequate waste management systems can result in pollution of land, water bodies, and natural areas. Effective waste management strategies, such as recycling, waste reduction initiatives, and proper disposal, are necessary to address this issue.

5. Cultural and Heritage Conservation: Popular tourist sites in Italy, such as historical monuments and cultural heritage sites, can experience wear and tear due to the high visitor numbers. Foot traffic, improper handling, and lack of visitor education can lead to physical damage and deterioration of these sites. Conservation measures, visitor management plans, and educational programs are implemented to protect and preserve Italy’s cultural and heritage assets.

6. Wildlife and Natural Habitats: Uncontrolled tourism activities, such as wildlife interactions, habitat disturbance, and pollution, can have negative impacts on local fauna and flora. Sensible ecotourism practices, such as wildlife viewing guidelines, protected area management, and responsible outdoor activities, are crucial for minimising disruption to ecosystems and protecting biodiversity.

7. Water Pollution and Marine Ecosystems: Coastal areas and marine ecosystems can be particularly vulnerable to pollution from tourism-related activities, such as improper waste disposal, sewage discharge, and marine transportation. Strict regulations, wastewater treatment systems, and awareness campaigns are important in safeguarding the marine environment and promoting sustainable coastal tourism in Italy.

8. Noise and Visual Pollution: Concentrations of tourists and associated activities can contribute to increased noise levels and visual clutter, especially in urban areas and popular tourist sites. These factors can impact the quality of life for both residents and wildlife. Sustainable tourism practices aim to minimise noise and visual pollution through zoning regulations, designated visitor areas, and sensitive infrastructure development.

9. Water and Energy Conservation: Tourism in Italy places demands on water and energy resources. Overconsumption of water, particularly in water-scarce regions, can strain local supplies. Likewise, high energy consumption can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation. Sustainable practices, such as water-saving measures, energy-efficient technologies, and renewable energy sources, can help mitigate these impacts.

10. Environmental Education and Awareness: Promoting environmental education and raising awareness among tourists and local communities are crucial in fostering sustainable tourism practices. Informing visitors about the importance of respecting natural resources, wildlife, and cultural heritage can encourage responsible behaviour and help reduce negative environmental impacts.

It’s important for the tourism industry in Italy to prioritise sustainable practices, adopt eco-friendly technologies, and engage in responsible tourism initiatives to minimise environmental impacts and protect the country’s natural and cultural assets for future generations.

Now that we know a bit more about tourism in Italy, lets answer some of the most common questions on this topic:

1. Q: What is the best time to visit Italy?

   A: The best time to visit Italy is generally during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are relatively smaller. However, each season has its own charm, and the choice depends on your preferences and the regions you plan to visit.

2. Q: What are the must-visit cities in Italy?

   A: Italy is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Some must-visit cities include Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan, and Naples. Each city offers unique attractions and experiences.

3. Q: Is it necessary to learn Italian before visiting Italy?

   A: While it is not necessary to be fluent in Italian, learning a few basic phrases can greatly enhance your travel experience and interactions with locals. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but knowing some Italian can be helpful in smaller towns and rural areas.

4. Q: What are the visa requirements for visiting Italy?

   A: Visa requirements for Italy vary depending on your nationality. Citizens of the European Union (EU) and the Schengen Area countries can enter Italy with a valid passport or ID card. Non-EU visitors may need to apply for a Schengen Visa. It is advisable to check with the Italian embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date information.

5. Q: What is the currency used in Italy?

   A: The currency used in Italy is the Euro (€). It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and have access to alternative payment methods such as credit cards, which are widely accepted.

6. Q: Are there any dress codes to be aware of in Italy?

   A: While there are no strict dress codes, it is recommended to dress modestly when visiting religious sites and to avoid wearing beachwear or revealing clothing in public areas. Italians generally dress stylishly, especially in more formal settings.

7. Q: Is tap water safe to drink in Italy?

   A: Tap water in Italy is generally safe to drink. However, some people prefer to drink bottled water, which is readily available. If you have any concerns, you can ask for “acqua minerale” (mineral water) at restaurants and cafes.

8. Q: What are some famous Italian dishes to try?

   A: Italy is renowned for its cuisine. Some popular dishes include pasta (e.g., spaghetti, lasagna), pizza, gelato, risotto, tiramisu, and various regional specialties like gnocchi, pesto, and arancini. Don’t forget to try the local wines and cheeses as well.

9. Q: Is it customary to tip in Italy?

   A: Tipping in Italy is not obligatory but is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, it is common to leave a small tip, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% of the total. In hotels, tipping for exceptional service is also appreciated.

10. Q: What are some safety tips for tourists in Italy?

    A: Italy is generally a safe country for tourists, but it’s always wise to take precautions. Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas, and avoid displaying valuable items. Use reputable transportation services and be cautious of pickpockets. It’s also advisable to have travel insurance to cover any unexpected situations.

As you can see, tourism in Italy is big business! However, there are many aspects that require careful and strategic management to ensure sustainable principles are practiced.

If you enjoyed this article about tourism in Italy, I am sure you will love these too:

• 13 surprising facts about the volcanoes in Italy
• 39 awesome things Italy is known for
• 51 fascinating facts about Italy
• The 6 best islands in Italy + essential travel tips
• The Sardinia Flag: 13 Fascinating Facts

Liked this article? Click to share!

Introducing Italy

About italy.

• Images of Italy
• History, language & culture
• Weather & geography
• Doing business & staying in touch

Plan your trip

• Travel to Italy
• Where to stay

While you’re there

• Things to see & do
• Shopping & nightlife
• Food & drink
• Getting around

Before you go

• Passport & visa
• Public Holidays
• Money & duty free

Book your flights

• Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport
• Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport
• Cagliari Elmas Airport
• Catania Fontanarossa Airport
• Florence Airport
• Genova (Genoa) Cristoforo Colombo Airport
• Marche Airport (Ancona Falconara Airport)
• Milan Linate Airport
• Milan Malpensa Airport
• Naples International Airport
• Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport
• Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport
• Pisa International Airport Galileo Galilei
• Rome Ciampino Airport
• Rome Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino Airport
• Trieste – Friuli Venezia Giulia Airport
• Turin Caselle Airport
• Venice Marco Polo Airport
• Verona Villafranca Airport

Ski Resorts

• Bardonecchia
• Sauze d’Oulx
• Aeolian Islands beaches
• Alghero beaches
• Amalfi beaches
• Bardolino beaches
• Capri beaches
• Cefalù Beach
• Garda beaches
• Isle of Ischia beaches
• Portofino and Paraggi Beach
• Rimini beaches
• Sorrento beaches
• Taormina beaches

Cruise Locations

Italy travel guide.

Travelling around Italy remains one of those rare experiences in life – like a perfect spring day or the power of first love – that can never be overrated. In few places do history, art, fashion, food and la dolce vita (“the good life”) intermingle so effortlessly. In Italy you'll find sunny isles, glacial lakes and fiery volcanoes, rolling vineyards and urban landscapes harbouring more UNESCO World Heritage sites than any other country on Earth. Few places offer such variety and few visitors leave without a fervent desire to return.

The artistic and architectural treasures of Rome, Venice, Florence and Naples draw visitors to them like moths to a flame. Not content with Romans conquering most of the known world, the Venetians dispatched Marco Polo to uncharted lands off the map, while Giotto, Leonardo da Vinci, Brunelleschi and Michelangelo kick-started the Renaissance in Western art and architecture.

Look around at all the splendid palaces, paintings, churches and monuments and wonder at the centuries of hard graft and the unswerving devotion to traditional techniques. Like the local art, wine is also designed to elevate your spirits. From the neatly-banded stone terraces of the Cinque Terre, which snake from sea level to terrifying precipices, to the blousy hillsides of Chianti, the riverine plain of the Po valley and the volcanic slopes of Etna, Italian wines are lovingly made to complement the carefully-sourced regional cuisine on your plate.

Much like its food, this country is an endless feast of experiences. No matter how much you gorge yourself, you’ll always feel as though you're still on the first course. Do you go skiing in the Dolomites, or cycling in wine country? Do you dive the sun-split waters of Sardinia, climb Aeolian volcanoes or stalk market stalls in Naples? The choice is dazzling and bewildering. So take the advice of the locals. Slow down, sit back, tuck in that napkin and get ready to begin.

301,340 sq km (116,348 sq miles).

59,801,004 (UN estimate 2016).

201 per sq km.

President Sergio Mattarella since 2015.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni since 2022.

Travel Advice

This travel advice page also covers the Vatican City.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all of the advice in this guide and and any specific travel advice that applies to you:  

• women travellers   
• disabled travellers   
• LGBT+ travellers

Follow FCDO travel on, Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities, and expenses in an emergency.

This page reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British Citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Italy set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how Italy’s entry requirements apply to you, contact Italy’s embassy, consulates in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Italy.

Public spaces and travel within Italy

If you are visiting a hospital intensive care ward or care home, you must wear a FFP2 mask.

Passport validity requirements

To travel to Italy, you must follow Schengen area passport requirements . 

To enter Italy (and all Schengen countries) your passport must: 

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early  
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave  

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to. 

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area (including Italy) for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

If you are travelling to Italy and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

To stay longer (to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons), you must meet the Italian government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa or work permit you may need with the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Italian Consulates in London, Manchester or Edinburgh before booking an appointment .

If you are travelling to Italy for work , read the guidance on visas and permits.

If you stay in Italy with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

British citizens who cannot return to the UK before the expiry of their visa or permit, or the end of their visa-free limit should contact their local immigration office (‘questura’) .

Checks at border control 

Temporary border checks have been introduced at Italy’s border with Slovenia, allow extra time for crossing the land border. Be ready to show your passport or residency card if you are asked to do so by the border police.

Make sure you get your passport stamped.

If you’re a visitor, your passport must be stamped when you enter or leave the Schengen area (which includes Italy). Border guards will use passport stamps to check you have not overstayed the 90-day visa-free limit for stays in the Schengen area. If your passport was not stamped, border guards will presume you have overstayed the visa-free limit.  

If your passport is missing a stamp, show evidence of when and where you entered or left the Schengen area (for example, boarding passes or tickets) and ask the border guards to add the date and location in your passport.  

Read about passport stamping if you live in Italy . 

At Italian border control, you may need to: 

• show proof of your accommodation, for example, a hotel booking confirmation or proof of address if visiting your own property (for example, a second home) 
• show proof of insurance for your trip – check FCDO ’s travel insurance guidance 
• show a return or onward ticket 
• prove that you have enough money for your stay. The minimum amount required depends on your accommodation 
• follow procedures if you are hosting a guest at your property in Italy

Registering with the authorities 

Unless you are staying in a hotel or B&B, if you are entering from a Schengen area country (for example, France) you must declare your presence (‘dichiarazione di presenza’) to the local immigration authority (‘questura’) within 8 days of arriving. The ‘questura’ will provide a form to complete. 

You can find more information on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Italian police force websites.

Accommodation and those aged 17 and under

Under Italian law, if you are aged 17 and under you cannot check into hotels or holiday accommodation without an accompanying adult.

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need on TravelHealthPro’s Italy guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Italy. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food into Italy

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries . There are some exceptions such as powdered baby milk, baby food, and special food or pet feed required for medical reasons.

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on  staying safe abroad  and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out  how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Italy

Terrorist attacks in Italy cannot be ruled out.

Events in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories 

Italian authorities have increased security around some Jewish community sites due to events in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Stay aware of your surroundings, stay away from demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities.

Political demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur with little or no warning in cities. Avoid any protests, political gatherings, or marches.

Crime levels are generally low but there are higher levels of petty crime (particularly bag snatching and pickpocketing) in the big city centres, such as Rome and Milan. Thieves can use a variety of methods to distract you.

Public transport

Take care on public transport and in crowded areas in city centres including main stations and particularly in and around Termini station in Rome, where incidents of street muggings have been reported.

Be particularly careful with your belongings on trains to and from airports and cruise ship ports in Italy (especially Fiumicino airport), as well as on the Circumvesuviana train between Naples and Sorrento, and when unloading your baggage from trains and coaches.

Theft from cars

Robberies from parked cars have been reported, in Rome, particularly the Colosseum area, Ostia, Milan and Pisa. Coastal areas and towns have been targeted as well as motorway service stations. Always lock your vehicle, never leave valuables in cars and avoid leaving luggage in cars for any length of time. Thieves may use a variety of methods to distract you or encourage you to stop your car, including asking for help or directions or pointing out a fictional fault with your car.

Use a hotel safe for valuables where possible.

Be drink aware

Drinks served in bars overseas are often stronger than those in the UK. Be careful about taking drinks from strangers or leaving your drinks unattended. Victims of spiked drinks have been robbed and sometimes assaulted.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

By law, you must always be able to show some form of identification. In most cases a photocopy of the data page of your passport should be enough, but you may also be asked for a second form of photo ID. The police will normally ask for your full passport if you are stopped while driving.

Tickets on public transport must be validated in a ticket machine before you start a journey. Officials patrol public transport and will issue an on the spot fine of 100 to 500 euros (reduced to 50 euros if paid immediately) if you don’t hold a validated ticket.

Tourist tax

Many major cities in Italy impose a small tax on tourists. The tax is paid at your hotel and is usually not included in any pre-paid arrangements or package deal. The rate of tax varies from city to city and can depend on the star rating of the hotel. Hotels often ask for payment in cash. Make sure you get a receipt. For more information, check with the local tourist information office.

If you are visiting Venice, you may need to pay an access fee. 

Visit Venice town hall for information on the dates access fees will be charged, exemptions and how to make a payment.

Public offences

Some Italian towns and cities have specific laws, which you may be fined if you break. For example, there may be laws to prevent you from:

• dropping litter
• sitting on monument steps
• eating and drinking next to main churches, historic monuments and public buildings
• defacing historic monuments

It’s also an offence to enter or bathe in public fountains in many towns and cities, including Florence and Rome. A fine of up to 10,000 euros can be imposed for urinating in a public place.

On the island of Capri, you must not use or bring onto the island any disposable plastic objects such as bags, cutlery, plates, cups, food packaging, trays and straws. If you do, you can be fined up to 500 euros.

Illegal traders operate on the streets of all major Italian cities. It is illegal to buy items from unlicensed street traders. If you do, you could be stopped by the local police and fined.

It’s illegal to remove sand, shells or pebbles from coastal areas in Italy. Doing so may result in large fines. It’s also forbidden to collect various species of flowers, plants and herbs from mountain and wooded areas. For more information, check with the regional authorities of the area you’re visiting.

Winter sports

If you are planning a skiing holiday, take advice on weather and avalanche conditions before you travel and familiarise yourself with local skiing laws and regulations.

You can contact the Italian State Tourist Board for advice on safety and weather conditions before you travel.

Regulations for the ski season include:

• third party liability insurance is a legal requirement and can be purchased locally with a ski pass
• you must wear a helmet if you are under 18
• you must not eat or drink on ski lifts or boarding areas
• you must not climb a slope with snowshoes unless in a case of emergency
• you must not ski under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Off-piste skiing is very dangerous. Follow all safety instructions meticulously given the dangers of avalanches in some areas and go with a qualified guide. For more information about the avalanche risk, visit the European Avalanche Warning Service website.

Check your insurance covers off-piste activity. It is a legal requirement for skiers and snowboarders to carry tracking equipment, a snow probe and a shovel if they go off-piste.

Find more information about staying safe while skiing and preparing for winter sports abroad .

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Hiking, mountaineering and other adventure sports have specific risks.

If you’re taking part in these activities, check that the company is well- established in the industry and that you’ve arranged for your insurance to cover this specific activity.

For sports activities like skiing, potholing and mountaineering, and for sports classed as particularly dangerous (for example off-piste skiing, mountain biking, climbing, paragliding or BASE jumping), your insurance should include:

• mountain rescue services
• helicopter costs
• repatriation to your country of residence or possible transfer to neighbouring countries for treatment

Check weather forecasts and conditions and make sure you’re properly equipped for the worst-case scenario with items such as a map, compass, GPS and telecommunication equipment.

Risks are greater if you undertake any activity alone. You may want to hire a guide for expert advice. Always leave copies of your itinerary with someone.

Local travel

Only use officially licensed taxis. These will have a taxi sign on the roof and a taxi company name and number written on the side. Taxis should be called or taken from an official rank rather than hailed in the street.

Transport strikes are often called at short notice. You can find information on the Ministry of Transport website (in Italian).

Traffic can be busy, fast and chaotic, especially in the larger cities. Take care when crossing roads. Pedestrians should cross roads using a crossing. You can be fined for crossing the road if you are within 100 metres of a pedestrian crossing but do not use it. Drivers don’t always stop, even though they are required to. The green pedestrian crossing signal also allows cars to turn right onto the crossing, so cross with caution.

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Italy, see information on driving abroad and read the RAC guide .

You may also want to look at the European Commission , AA and Italian Police guides on driving in Italy.

Licences and documents

If you are visiting Italy, you can drive on a full, valid UK driving licence, insurance and vehicle documents. If you’re living in Italy, or planning to live there check the living in Italy guide for information on requirements for residents.

Driving a British car abroad

You may need a UK sticker to drive your car outside the UK. Since 2021, UK stickers have replaced GB stickers. Check the government guidance on displaying number plates for more information on what to do if you are driving outside the UK.

Traffic restrictions

Private and hire cars must not enter the historic centre of many Italian cities without an official pass. You can buy a pass from most car hire companies. The boundaries of historic centres are usually marked with the letters ZTL in black on a yellow background. If you pass this sign, your registration number is likely to be caught on camera and you will be fined.

There is a congestion charge for Milan city centre. For more information see the Milan Municipality website.

To reduce pollution, city authorities in Rome sometimes restrict traffic on specific days so vehicles with odd or even number plates are not allowed on the roads in the green band (fascia verde) area, which covers most of Rome. For more information, including exceptions, see the Rome Municipality website .

Extreme weather and natural disasters

For severe weather warnings, visit the European Meteorological Services website .

Forest fires

Forest fires are a risk during the extended summer months. They are highly dangerous and unpredictable. Check latest alerts and weather forecast and follow advice of local authorities if you’re considering travelling to affected areas. Take care when visiting or driving through woodland areas and report fires to the emergency services.

For information on what to do in the event of a forest fire, visit the Civil Protection Department website .

Heavy rainfall is common throughout Italy in winter, which can cause local flooding. Monitor local media, weather reports and follow the advice of local authorities in affected areas.

High waters are a common occurrence in Venice during the winter months and can cause flooding in parts of the city.

Earthquakes

Many parts of Italy lie on a major seismic fault line, which means that minor tremors and earthquakes are a regular occurrence. Learn more about what to do before, during, and after an earthquake .

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 118 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

For more information, read our guidance on healthcare when travelling in Europe .

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccination recommendations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Italy guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Italy, including the Alps and the Dolomites. More information about altitude sickness is available from TravelHealthPro .

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne disease, dengue fever, in Italy. You should take appropriate precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes  .

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

TravelHealthPro explains best practice when travelling with medicines .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

Health insurance cards

Apply for a free UK Global Health Insurance Card ( GHIC ) before leaving the UK. If you already have a European Health Insurance Card ( EHIC ) it will still be valid as long as it remains in date.

The GHIC or EHIC entitles you to state- provided medical treatment necessary during your trip. Any treatment provided is on the same terms as Italian nationals. If you don’t have your EHIC with you or you’ve lost it, contact the NHS Overseas Healthcare Team .

It’s important to take out appropriate travel insurance for your needs. A GHIC or EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance and you should have both before you travel. A GHIC or EHIC does not cover all health-related costs, for example, medical repatriation, ongoing medical treatment and non-urgent treatment. Read more about what your travel insurance should cover .

You can find details of English-speaking doctors in Italy on our list of healthcare providers .

GHIC and or EHIC cover state healthcare only, not private treatment. You will be responsible for the cost of any treatment provided by a private doctor or private clinic.

Pharmacies and doctors

Unlike in the UK, you will need to go to a pharmacy to get most over-the-counter medicines. Pharmacies are widely available and are usually identified by a green cross. UK prescriptions are not accepted, though you may be able to buy an equivalent medication from the pharmacy. Alternatively, you can visit an Italian GP to obtain a local prescription. Prescription medicines are not free in Italy, but with an EHIC or GHIC , and an Italian prescription, you will pay a reduced rate.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Italy

If you need to contact the emergency services, call these numbers:

Ambulance: 118

Police: 112

You can also download the 112 Where Are U app , the official European emergency number app. It is only available in some parts of Italy.

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers , funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Italy
• dealing with a death in Italy
• being arrested in Italy
• getting help if you’re a victim of crime
• what to do if you’re in hospital
• if you are affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Find more support for British nationals abroad .

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Help abroad in an emergency

If you are abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission .

You can also contact FCDO online .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Related Articles

24 hours in: Florence

As the birthplace of the Renaissance period, opera and even gelato, Florence has enough cultural heritage to fill a whole lifetime.

‘They’ll burn your boat’: Paddling against the patriarchy

Almost all of Venice's Gondolieri are men. Paula Hardy meets Jane Caporal, the renegade sticking her oar in to change all that.

City Highlight: Rome

From world-famous ruins to chic cafés and must-try specialties, in Italy’s cosmopolitan capital it’s certainly true that “one lifetime is not enough”

Book a Hotel

© Columbus Travel Media Ltd. All rights reserved 2024

News for Kids

• Dominican Republic
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Puerto Rico
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States of America
• 7 Continents
• Australia/Oceania
• North America
• South America
• Chinese New Year
• Elections 2024
• Olympics 2024
• European Union
• Trivia & Quizzes
• Solar System Quiz
• Travel Reviews
• Travel Health
• Travel Links

Competition 2024

• Winners 2023
• Winners 2022
• Winners 2021
• Winners 2020
• Winners 2019
• Request A Correction

Italy Facts

Interesting facts for kids.

Here are some interesting Italy Facts which were chosen and researched by kids especially for kids.

• Population : About 59 million people live in Italy (2024)
• Capital : Roma (Rome) with 4.3 million inhabitants
• Name : Repubblica Italiana (Italian Republic) or simply: Italia , Nickname: ' Bel Paese ' which means beautiful country
• Government : Democracy, Republic
• Language : Italian. Official minority languages are German, French and Ladin in some regions in Northern Italy
• Literacy : More than 98% can read and write
• Religion : mainly Christians (80%, of theses most are Roman Catholics)
• Currency : 1 euro = 100 cents, before 2001: Italian lira

• History : Rome was founded in 753 BC by the twins Romulus and Remus. The Roman Empire was founded in 27 BC and Augustus Caesar proclaimed himself emperor of Rome in 31 BC. After the Roman Empire broke down in 395 AD, there were many separate kingdoms and city states. Italy became one nation only in 1861. Since then the country also includes the islands of Sicily and Sardegna. The 'Kingdom of Italy' lasted from 1861 until 1946. During the Second World War, Italy's Prime Minister Benito Mussolini sided with the German Nazi regime. The Italian Republic was formed in 1946.

• Prime Minister : Giorgia Meloni (since 2022)
• National Day : 2 June ( Festa della Repubblica )
• National Symbols : Italian grey wolf (national animal), red rose or white lily (national flowers) and the white five-pointed star with a thin red border line

• Flag : 'Tricolore' with green, white and red coloured vertical bands. The flag colours are said to represent these virtues: hope (green), faith (white), and charity (red)

Italy Facts Where is Italy?

Italy is a country in Southern Europe. The country is located on a peninsula in the Mediterranean Sea.

The Adriatic Sea borders the eastern side of the peninsula while the Ligurian Sea and the Thyrrenian Sea border the western coastline of Italy. The Ionian Sea is to the south of the peninsula.

Italy  borders six countries: France , Austria , Switzerland , Slovenia, Vatican City and San Marino. Both, Vatican City and San Marino, are enclaves within Italy as you can see on the map.

The country is eas y to recognize on any world map, as the country is shaped like a high-heeled boot, as yo u can see on the map above. The island of Sicily could be imagined as a ball, so that it looks like the boot is kicking a ball, don’t you think?

Italy is slightly larger in size than the three countries of the UK, the Netherlands and Belgium combined or about as big as the state of Arizona/ USA.

A flight to Italy's capital city Rome takes roughly 2.5 hours from London/ UK and about 8 hours from New York/ USA.

Italy Facts | Italy Geography

Italy has more than 7,600 km/ 4,722 miles of coastline as the peninsula is located for a large part in the Mediterranean sea.

Italy is popular for its many picturesque ports, scenic lakes and sandy beaches. 

Italy has two bigger islands, Sicily to the south and Sardegna to the west.

Two islands of Italy, Lampedusa and Lampione, are located far to the south and are closer to Africa than to Italy. Both islands are on the African continental shelf.

There are many smaller islands such as Capri, Ischia and Elba which are all to the west of mainland Italy.

The main cities in Italy are Roma/Rome, Milano/Milan, Firenze/Florence and Napoli/Naples.

The Alps and the Apennines are the two main mountain ranges in Italy. About 40% of the country is covered by hills and mountains.

In the North, the mountain range of the Alps separates Italy from the other European countries France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia.

The highest mountains of Italy can be found in the Alps. The Dolomites are a part of the Alps mountain range in Italy's north and many of the peaks are above 3,000 m/ 9,843 ft high!

There are many lakes in northern Italy, in the centre of the country, the landscape flattens, this flat area is called the Po Valley. 

The Apennines mountain range run all the way down the boot and separates the eastern and the western regions of Italy.

And did you know that in Italy, there are still active volcanos?

In the South of Italy you will f ind Italy’s three active volcanoes: Vesuvius near Naples, Etna on Sicily and Stromboli off the Coast of Italy.

Italy Facts | Italy Geography Superlatives

Here are some fascinating Italy facts that are always good to know:

• Italy's largest island  is Sicily. This island is also the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.
• The biggest city of the country is Rome  with 4.2 million people.
• The highest mountain peak in Italy is Monte Bianco , better known as Mont Blanc, which is 4,807 m or 15,776 ft. high.
• The longest river in Italy is the Po River in Northern Italy with a length of 652 km/ 405 miles.
• Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy. It is located in northern Italy and famous for the winds that attract many surfers to its shores.
• The longest border to any neighbouring country is shared with Switzerland. This border is 698 km/ 434 miles long.
• The Etna is the most active volcano in Europe . It is located on the island of Sicily.

And again, remember, Italy surrounds two of the world’s smallest countries!  These are San Marino in Northern Italy, which is also the oldest republic in the world, and Vatican City in Rome, the smallest country in the world. 

Read about the most famous landmarks in Italy on our separate page here.

Italy Facts  Italy Attractions for Kids

• Rome : Italy's capital city is a wonderful place to learn about the Romans and ancient history. There are so many historic sites in the city that is nicknamed 'Eternal City' and you must visit historic monuments as as the Foro Romano  (Forum Romanum) with its ancient Roman ruins or the Colosseo.

• Venice : This Northern Italian city is often referred to as 'Lagoon City' or 'The City of Masks'. The Italian name of the city is Venezia. Venice is famous for its canals, bridges and gondolas. The city is built on 120 islands and is known for its colourful carnival. 

• Pisa : The city on the river Arno is famous for its duomo and the leaning tower. One just must experience the Leaning Tower of Pisa which dates back to the 12th century. The bell tower of the main cathedral of the city is as fascinating as the colourful decorated churches. 

• Ravenna : The city is famous for the ancient colourful mosaics that decorate the city's churches. The extensive mosaic decorations date back to the 5th century and are fascinating artworks to explore. The city was once on of the main centres of Roman Christian art.

• Tuscany : The Tuscany is a popular tourist region with scenic countryside in central Italy. The rolling hills invite for hiking trips and there are lovely medieval towns such as San Gimignano, Lucca or Montepulciano. The capital of the Tuscany region is Florence.

• Florence : This city in Tuscany called Firenze in Italian is known for its arts museums and historic churches, Renaissance art and architecture. Many of the great Italian artists such as Michelangelo or Leonardo da Vinci once lived in this city.

• Dolomites/Dolomiti and Italian Alps : The provinces in Northern Italy are renowned for fabulous skiing, hiking and mountainside holidays. You should also to visit South Tyrol's capital Bolzano. In the city’s Natural History Museum you can marvel at Oetzi, a mummy from the Ice-age.

• Alberobello : This small town is located in Apulia ( Puglia in Italian). This town in southern Italy is known for its historic stone huts with cone hat-roofs. These unique houses are called  trulli.

Read here about the most famous Italian landmarks and attractions here.

Italy Facts | Italian People

Italy is quite densely populated, with most people living in the country's northern regions. The Po Valley, also referred to as Padan Plain, is an area with many industrial centres. Almost half of Italy's population live in the Po Valley. The Po Valley's biggest cities include Milan (Milano), Modena, Turin (Torino) and Verona.

Milan is the main industrial centre of Italy and also known to be one of the world's fashion capitals.

Italians lead a modern lifestyle especially in the urban centres but they also celebrate century-old cultural traditions. Famous festivals that are celebrated annually are the carnival celebrations before Lent. In Venice, these are said to originate in the 12th century.

The Palio in Siena is dating back to 1644 when the first horse race in the city's main square was held.

And of course, Italians love soccer! The admittedly quite brutal  Calcio  storico  match is still played and celebrated in Florence once a year. C alcio  means soccer in Italian.

The Italian soccer league is followed by many Italians abroad too: Inter Milan, Lazio Roma and Juventus Turin are just some of the Italian soccer teams which are favoured by Italians.

Soccer, skiing, cycling, surfing or motor racing are just some of the sports Italians have very strong interest in.

The family is very important for Italians, where there are still many big families including grandparents, parents and children in the household.

Italians love their food, which is usually prepared freshly by ' la mama ', the mother, or the nonna , the grandmother. 

In the afternoon or evening it is common to meet up with family and friends on the piazza. The piazza is the main square of the village or town. 

Italy Facts | Famous Italians

Italians are famous for their inventions and discoveries. The Italian explorers Christopher Columbus and Amerigo Ves pucci explored many places in the Americas while Marco Polo travelled extensively in Asia.

Leonardo da Vinci was a scientist and artist who was the first to prove the world is round and not flat.

Alessandro Volta, was the prioneer who did studies in electricity, hence the name 'Volt' describing a unit of electricity.

Did you know that Italians also invented the piano and the thermometer?

More Italy Facts about Famous Italians for Kids: Explorers, Inventors and more

Italy Facts | Italian Language

Italian is a Romance language and the language roots are in the Latin language. Italian is very close to French, as 89% of the vocabulary are shared, and 82% is shared with the Spanish vocabulary.

Italian is an official language not only in Italy but also in Switzerland, San Marino and Vatican City.

The Italian alphabet consists of 21 letters only. The letters j, k, w, x and y do not exist, except for lean words, that means words that originate in another language. 

Italy Facts: 10 useful Italian words and terms

• ciao -  hello
• grazie - thank you
• prego - please, you are welcome
• bene - good
• come stai ? - how are you? (informal, with family and friends)
• sì  - yes
• scusami - excuse me
• ho fame - I am hungry
• ho sete - I am thirsty

The pronunciation is soft and very melodic and so the language is used in opera and also popular by young pop music artists. 

Most young people in Italy learn to speak English, French or German in school.

In remote rural villages in Italy's northern regions, some of the older people, however, do only speak a little Italian and still mainly use a regional language such as German in the Alto Adige or French in the Valle d’Aosta or the unique Ladino  (Ladin) language in the Trentino.

Italy Facts | Italy Economy

Italy is one of the original six founding countries of the European Union  with Germany, France, Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. Read more about the European Union here.

Italy's extreme northern regions and most parts in Southern Italy are used for agriculture. In the North the main produce are dairy products and grains, while in the south mainly fruits and olives are harvested.

Italy also has a lot of industry especial in the country's north around Milan. Among the famous Italian brands are: Ferrari, Lamborghini, Fiat (car manufacturers), Gucci, Prada (fashion) and Ferrero (food - Nutella) or Barilla (food - spaghetti and pasta).

The main trading partners of Italy are Germany, France, the USA and China.

Italy Facts | Italian Food

The Italian main dishes often contain pork and beef, seafood as well as potatoes, rice and pasta (wheat and egg noodles) products and of course, tomatoes.

Pizza is surely one of the most famous exports and in Italy pizza is usually baked in a wood-fired oven. Italian pizza is very thin, but loaded with fresh vegetables or thinly sliced ham, salami, artichokes or olives.

The Italian pasta (variety of noodles) is renowned worldwide and there are more than 200 different shapes.

Italians love their food and many dishes are based on fresh vegetables and seafood too. There are delicious sweet cakes in Italy, such as p anettone (a yeast cake with raisins),  p anforte (a hard and flat fruit cake) and almond cookies such as  amaretti .

Here is some typical Italian food:

• Pizza : probably the most famous Italian dish, pizza was is said to have been invented in Napoli (Naples in English) around the year 1860
• Spaghetti : long thin pasta/noodles served with a large variety of topping or sauce
• Calzone : this folded-up pizza bread is filled with tomatoes, ham, cheese and all kinds of other filling
• Pesto : a thick green sauce made with olives, basil or other herbs and olive oil, pine kernels and parmiggiano, which is an  Italian  hard cheese
• Gelato : ice-cream is another famous Italian invention
• Lasagna : this layered pasta dish is made with layers of pasta sheets, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese and mince meat
• Mozzarella : Italian soft cheese balls, that originally were made mainly from buffalo milk, but today mozzarella is often made with cow's milk

Did you know that Italians eat spaghetti only with a fork and don't use a spoon?

Read more about Italian Food here.

Italy Facts | Animals in Italy

One third of all European animal species can be found in Italy. The country also houses half of all plant species that grow in Europe.

There are over 4,770 endemic species in Italy. Endemic means that these animal species are native and only exist in Italy. There are about 100 mammal species and over 500 bird species. Among the species that you might encounter are the unique Sardinian deer and the Corsican hare.

There are 20 national parks in Italy and 16 Marine Reserves to ensure the protection of threatened species such as the Italian shark or the Italian wolf, the national animal.

Italy Facts for Kids : Sheep are held mainly in Southern Italy and donkeys still help farmers in remote villages as they are trained to carry heavy loads over steep terrain.

Brown bears are protected in Italy. There are only few bears left in the wild now.

In the Alps you will very likely see marmots, a ground squirrel species, which call each other with very high pitched calling sounds. And if you are very lucky you might even spot a lynx, a wild cat with little hair tuffs on the ears!

Read the fascinating essay about wildlife, and especially about white lions, by Lorenzo Pelagatti, student from Italy, here.

Resources for Italy Facts

• Central Intelligence Agency. "Italy." WorldFactBook . Last updated 22 March 2023. Last accessed 29 March 2023
• Città di Venezia. " C arnevale di Venezia." Venezia . Last accessed 29 March 2023
• Italia Agenzia Nazionale Turismo "Italia."  Italia.it . Last accessed 29 March 2023

Popular Pages | Italy for Kids

More about europe.

Return from Italy Facts to KidsWorldTravelGuide Homepage

Competition 2024 is open!

Would you prefer to share this page with others by linking to it?

• Click on the HTML link code below.
• Copy and paste it, adding a note of your own, into your blog, a Web page, forums, a blog comment, your Facebook account, or anywhere that someone would find this page valuable.

Events & Celebrations

Organisations, games & quizzes, travel tips, competition, recent articles.

Facts about Liberia for Kids | Africa Facts for Kids | Geography

Apr 25, 24 09:36 AM

UAE Facts for Kids | United Arab Emirates Facts | Geography | Travel

Apr 19, 24 04:33 AM

Argentina Facts for Kids | Geography | Attractions | People | Animals

Apr 12, 24 05:32 AM

More about Italy

More about Countries in Europe 

Temperature in Celsius 

Temperature in fahrenheit.

Do you like what you read?

More about Christmas

Winning Essays 2021

Winning Essays 2022

Winning Essays 2023

Like us on  Facebook

Kids World Travel Guide

Brilliantly

Content & links.

Verified by Sur.ly

©Kids-World-Travel-Guide.com 2010-2024 | Created by Regina Gräff and KidsWorldTravels

 All rights reserved | Privacy Policy | Disclaimer

More From Forbes

Travel to italy like an insider with the best local experts.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

A trip to Italy is too special to get wrong. Here's how to do it right. (San Gimignano, Tuscany)

I absolutely love Italy, for many different reasons. But I hate the way in which many Americans go about planning trips there. Survey after survey shows it is the number one dream destination for U.S. leisure travelers, but the way those travelers get their information and advice gives me nightmares.

Throughout the years I’ve heard people say over and over that “I was told to do this in Italy,” or “I was told not to do this in Italy.” By who? “A friend.” I have close friends who recently planned their entire 12-day trip on the basis of another couple they knew who gave them advice—after their first visit. I’ve heard of many people who skipped Rome because “we heard it was too busy, just another big city.” Or passed on Venice, one of the world’s most magical destinations, because, “I heard it was touristy.”

There are American tourists who say you should skip Venice. They are wrong.

It goes on and on, but suffice to say, I have been to Italy in the neighborhood of two dozen times, summer and winter, for food, wine, skiing, golf, hiking, cycling and more food, from north to south and east to west and islands too, and I know a lot about Italian cuisine, but I still ask real experts for advice every time I go. I specifically ask for advice on where to eat, what to see, and who to choose as guides. And by experts, I mean people how live in Italy, specialize in particular areas of travel, and know their subject matter.

“We get multiple guests a year who want to wing it,” says Cherrye Moore, owner of My Bella Vita travel. Moore moved to Calabria two decades ago after falling in love with the region on a visit, and opened a bed and breakfast, learning about what her visitors were looking for. Her company now specializes in planning trips—especially foodie and ancestry trips—to the area in Southern Italy where many Italian Americans trace their heritage. “They say, ‘My neighbor just showed up in their family’s hometown and it went great for them,’ or, ‘Our friends went to Italy last year and said we don't need a driver.’ It’s true that you can rent a car and drive to your family’s hometown, but that experience is vastly different from having a dedicated driver and a heritage specialist who has done research on your family’s history, who has already identified the home your grandfather was born in, and who has arranged meetings with locals upon your arrival.”

Exclusive Employers Are Souring On Ivy League Grads While These 20 New Ivies Ascend

Nyt strands hints spangram and answers for monday april 29th, new ios 18 ai security move changes the game for all iphone users.

Anyone can tour the Vatican, but only the right guides can get you a private visit.

I just got back from an exploration of Turin followed by a weeklong hiking trip in surrounding Piemonte, Italy’s most prestigious wine region, which included multiple winery visits. For restaurants and guides and sightseeing in Turin I used an Italian-based travel specialist that is the choice of many of the best luxury travel agents/advisors in this country (the best travel agents are savvy enough to know what they do not know and regularly rely on local experts). For the hiking trip, I used an Italy-based active travel specialist that does nothing else, and does it with a food-centric spin. It was another fantastic Italy trip, one amazing day after another, featuring many meals, wineries and experiences I never would have found by myself, especially by asking random friends or watching You Tube influencer videos by people with far less Italy experience than myself.

“We don’t focus on stars or diamonds, we focus on really special one-of-a-kind experiences and lodging that lets you discover our Italy,” said Heather Dowd, who lives in Turin and along with her Italian husband Beppe Salerno. They run Tourissimo , the active travel company we used. We had several friends hiking with us who were on either their very first or second trip to Italy, and when we reviewed our experiences at the end for the trip, one place we stayed, an 18 th century castle turned boutique hotel, was the overwhelming favorite. It did not have whirlpool tubs or Frette linens, it did not have a concierge or room service, but it had excellent food and beautiful gardens in which we had an epic dinner. It had cooking classes, a great location, a fun aperitivo evening cocktail session, and most of all, incredible charm..

Everyone wants the perfect meal in Italy, but not everyone knows where the locals go to find it.

It was exactly what my first timers dreamed Italy would be like, and it was a place we never would have found online. It was perfect, and even in Italy not every place is, but the reality is that Heather and Beppe and their guides spend a lot of time behind the scenes visiting small hotels and vetting them, way more time than the people who rate their stays on booking websites. One of my friends was so impressed he is already planning an extended family hiking trip to Sicily with Tourissimo next year.

If you want to have an insider experience in Italy, and see the places locals go, you need a local insider to help you out.

“Our goal is for guests to experience Calabria like we do, so we’ve built experiences that aren’t available online,” said My Bella Vita’s Moore. “Nowhere else can you find a multi-course lunch hosted at Zia Pina’s or a picnic prepared and delivered by Signora Francesca. Lunch in the home of our friend, Chef Massimo, isn’t available on Google. When creating or reviewing experiences I always think of my sister in Texas. If she were visiting, would I take her here? If that answer is yes, I know we have a winner.” That is exactly the standard by which I’d like my Italy travels to be judged.

A trip to Italy is a beautiful, special, and almost sacred experience, so don’t screw it up by taking bad advice. I do not know every local specialist—and I hope to keep finding more—but I know several experts I would recommend for different kinds of travel. Or use a good travel advisor, something I recommend for all travel (Read my article Why You Need A Travel Agent More Than Ever here at Forbes ), and communicate with them to ensure they are on the same page in terms of sourcing these kinds of local experts. If they are good, they will already be familiar with several of these companies.

Active Travel

All of Tourissimo's cycling and hiking trips in Italy emphasize food and wine, which is how it ... [+] should be.

Italy has long been the dream destination of cyclists, with Tuscany atop the Bucket List for global road riding destinations. But for the past few years the fastest growing sector of cycling has been “gravel grinding,” and with hundreds of miles of its stunning unpaved “white roads,” Tuscany has also emerged as the world’s top travel spot for gravel lovers. There are also plenty of other amazing places to ride in Italy, including Piemonte, Sardinia, Puglia, the Lakes region, and many other areas. World class hiking abounds, especially the stunning Dolomites—a UNESCO World Heritage Site of beauty unmatched by most other mountain regions on earth. Beyond this there are the Alps in the east, the Cinque Terre, Sardinia, and many other great options.

Italy is so well known for cycling and hiking that every major active travel company in the world runs trips there. But for my last two active trips, one hiking and one biking, I chose a tour operator that is actually based there, founded by an Italian with a passion for cycling and food. Tourissimo may be Italian, but they cater to the American market, and founder Beppe Salerno worked for am American cycling company as a guide before realizing he could do the real Italy better himself—to me, the perfect startup rationale. Over the years since, Tourissimo has grown its library of offerings, with both with an array of scheduled group trips and private custom options. While they do mostly road riding, they are notably one of the only tour operators scheduling gravel trips, and can also arrange custom mountain biking itineraries, with years of expertise in cycling and hiking.

Superstar Chef Mary Sue Milliken has led about galf a dozen Chef's Cycling Tours in Italy for ... [+] Tourissimo.

In addition, Tourissimo has also been a pioneer in “Active Culinary Travel,” a hot new category I have written about here at Forbes (and for other magazines and newspapers). They offer an annual series of six group rides (and a hike) each hosted by an acclaimed chef like Mary Sue Milliken, an award-winning chef, restaurateur, cookbook author (five!) and co-host of the popular PBS cooking show Two Hot Tamales . She is also an avid cyclist and has led the Tourissimo Chef Bike Tours for several years, along with other big names. These trips are a unique option for serious foodies who also ride, while the other trips cater to just about anyone. Otherwise they offer several styles of trips, from Bici Basics for new riders to Ambitious Tours for the more hard core.

Tourissimo puts a focus on local, choosing small and often historic hotels that they have curated and vetted (like the castle I just stayed at in Piemonte), places that you would never be able to distinguish from hundreds of other non-chain options online. Same for restaurants, wineries, and all the other ways they take you behind the scenes and into their real Italy. Their Mission Statement? “We don't want to be the biggest adventure travel company. We want to design and run the best tours in Italy. We strive to be the most authentic and the most beneficial to local communities.” Fantastico!

Bellagio on Lake Como is one of the most famous destinations in Italy — and the perfect place for a ... [+] food-centric bike tour!

Bike It! Bellagio offers another insider biking experience on a much different scale, providing a great one-day experience for visitors to Italy’s most famous lake town. This bike shop on Lake Como is run by a former pro racer and his wife. They rent bikes (road, mountain and e-bikes) out, but also offer one-day guided tours with multiple food and drink stops. Given that the owner grew up here and knows everyone, it’s not surprising that the food and drink spots are insider picks. The shop sits near the iconic Madonna del Ghisallo climb, the most famous in the Giro di Lombardia, a race more than a century old, and several days a week the shop offers guided group rides with a climb of the pass, on road or e-bikes—Bianchi bikes of course!

There are scheduled tours Monday through Saturday, as well as wide range of customizable private tours. These are often taken by families with mixed ages, but for more aggressive riders they offer longer road tours, mountain biking and gravel riding, along with a wide range of less demanding e-bike tours, including some even more focused on food and wine. They also offer a handful of multi-day tours and can put these together as custom on demand, usually for groups, including an iconic coast to coast traverse of Italy. If you are a guest of one of the many stunning (and pricey) ultra-luxury hotels around Bellagio, and ask the concierge to arrange a bike tour, they are likely going to call this shop anyway (and mark it up) so just do it yourself.

Luxury Travel in Italy

From planning your entire itinerary with flights, hotels, and transfers to just booking the best tours, guides and VIP access (often to non-public highlights), it pays to use a top local specialist.

Last year I attended the annual Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas, which has been called “the Oscars of the travel industry.” Virtuoso is the leading global luxury travel consortium, and many of the best travel advisors on earth belong, So does just about every top hotel, resort, safari lodge, cruise line, and luxury tour operator. Virtuoso CEO Matthew Upchurch was explaining the many advantages of using a travel advisor (I wholeheartedly agree) and something he said really stuck with me. He explained that with all of the new online tour booking companies, it was easier than ever to book a tour or guide in just about any destination on earth, but harder than ever to judge the quality. The caveat was that, “you can book a guide, but you can’t book my guide.”

One of Italy's greatest hidden gems, Turin was the nation's first capital and a Winter Olympic host. ... [+] It's worth getting a good guide if you visit.

The Vatican is the Vatican and the Colosseum is the Colosseum, so when you opt for a guided tour, what really matters and makes it a good, bad or great experience is the guide—and their special access, like a tour of the Vatican when no one else is there.

For my recent trip to Turin, I called Imago Artis Travel , an Italy-based luxury travel specialist. They are what is known in the travel industry as a destination management company or DMC, the same companies luxury travel agents call to arrange local details for their clients. There are great DMCs all over the world, and local knowledge is valuable everywhere, but many of them do not deal directly with travelers, while in Italy the best ones do.

I wanted a private day tour of Turin and its surrounding attractions for my wife and I, most importantly the Reggia di Venaria Reale, aka the “Italian Versailles” (one of two places in Italy with this lofty but accurate nickname). The guide they got for me was a licensed guide, and lifelong resident of Turin, and spoke excellent English, which was all good, but she was also an architect, which was great in a city where so much is driven by architecture. That’s not so easy to find on global tour aggregator website. Imago Artis also gave me a list of their favorite restaurant recommendations, which were spot on, then made my reservations for me. At a minimum this eliminates the language barrier of calling or the technology barrier of booking through often tricky (or non-functional) Italian restaurant reservation websites, but in many cases it also gets you a better table and instant VIP treatment—which definitely does not happen when I book myself.

Italy is rich in world-class crafts, and companies like Imago Artis can take you behind the scenes ... [+] to meet the makers.

Imago Artis Travel is a Virtuoso member, which means when you book through them, if you book your luxury hotel, you get extras like room upgrades, late checkout, spa credits etc., one of the big advantages of working with Virtuoso travel advisors. If you have a bigger budget than I do, they can handle all sorts of luxury transport, private jets, helicopters, boat charters, and also offer VIP Meet and Greet services at just about every airport in Italy. They can even arrange private security details. On a more accessible luxury level, they specialize in exclusive experiences, unlocking historic buildings and art collections not open to the public, and taking you behind the scenes with many artisans of Italy, from custom shoemakers to sculptors to jewelry designers. They know food, they know the guides, and I especially like their mission statement, “Our mission is simple: Getting You to the Heart of Italy.” That’s what it is all about.

Another top luxury DMC that is also a member of Virtuoso that I have used in the past with great success is IC Bellagio . They offer a similar array of luxury services and are very well connected, but they also specialize in Villa rentals as well as 5-Star hotels. Differentiating villas in Italy may be the single biggest challenge, more so than restaurants, with so many options and so few valid reviews. IC Bellagio has also boldly acknowledged the overtourism problems some of the most popular parts of Italy face, and are pushing “Slow Season Travel,” which varies in each of the country’s 20 regions but is something they are expert in. Last winter I went to Venice in the off-season, and it was spectacular, and I just traveled in a slow season to Piemonte. It was much, much better than fighting the crowds.

Skiing in Italy is awesome, and it's the best place in the world to stay in mountain rifugios — but ... [+] you need help for the perfect trip.

Skiing in Italy remains a bit under the radar for Europe, especially compared to France and Switzerland. Well, let the crowds go to other countries, because Italy has two different major ski regions, both of which have hosted the Winter Olympics, and the Games are returning to Milan and Cortina in 2026. The interconnected Dolomiti SuperSki lift and trail network in the Dolomites is arguably the largest “ski resort” in the world, and inarguably one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes on the planet. The towns are charming, the food is great, there are spectacular hotels from non-chain independent hidden gems to world-class luxury (Aman, Mandarin Oriental, Relais & Chateaux, etc.) and it’s cheaper than much of the rest of Europe. Did I mention the food?

I first went to the Dolomites to go hiking, and was so wowed I thought, “I have to come back and ski here.” I came back the next winter and skied, and the following year I got a group of friends together and went back. I have skied all over the U.S., and all over the world and never had the same compulsion to return to the same place immediately. That’s how good skiing in Italy is ( read much more in my Italy skiing piece here at Forbes ).

I’ve only used one company for ski travel in Italy and see no reason to switch gears, especially since the local logistics (a great guide/instructor, transfers, the best on-mountain meals and staying a couple of nights in the region’s unique on-mountain rifugios) is very hard to organize on your own. The company is Dolomite Mountains , a specialist in both resort ski vacations and backcountry touring trips (using skins and alpine touring or AT gear). They too are a U.S. facing company with mainly American clientele.

Like many active travel companies, they offer both group trip scheduled departure options and private custom trips to fit whatever you want. The group option is called the Dolomites Ski Safari and is a 7-day trip mixing stays in amazing rifugios with in-town hotels (4 and 5-stars on the Italian system) and includes all breakfasts and dinners, a full-time guide, ski pass, luggage transfers and more. Custom options include the same kind of trip for your own group, or anything you want, and while its name suggests local expertise—quite true—Dolomite Mountains also handles ski trips in the rest of Italy, like Courmayeur, and connected border regions of France, Switzerland and Austria, as many lift systems here know no national boundaries (ski with your passport!). They are also a Virtuoso member.

Calabria & Southern Italy

Many Italian Americans trace their ancestry to Southern Italy's Calabria, and if you want to visit, ... [+] make sure you do it right.

My Bella Vita travel focuses on this area, including both small group trips and custom privates. Their specialties include “Heritage Tours” for those interested in their ancestry, and a food focus for the rest of us. For instance, Taste of the South is a 12-day gastronomic journey through Calabria, Basilicata and Naples—the birthplace of pizza! Food & Wine of Calabria is an 11-daty trip and just what it sounds like.

These are some of the scheduled small group tours offered, but the rest of their business is private trip planning and custom options.

“Italy is deceivingly large, and travelers think two weeks is enough time to see everything. It isn’t,” insists Moore. “You can’t even experience all of Calabria in two weeks. Our team collectively spends about six months a year scouting new hotels, restaurants, and experiences in Calabria and we are constantly re-evaluating and tweaking our recommendations.”

There are some other Italy specialists I have not personally experienced, but that come highly recommended by some of my other experts:

My Bella Vita’s Cherrye Moore says, “ In Sicily, I recommend Lucia Davies of Sicily Tour , one of a trio of British expats who have lived in Siracusa, Sicily for decades.” A family-owned tour-guiding company based in Siracusa, they have nearly 40 years of experience on the island and create trips fostering cultural exchange between Italy and English-speaking visitors, specializing in small group and custom tours.

Food & Wine

Life is too short to go to Italy and not eat well.

Beppe and Heather Dowd of Tourissimo recommend Lazy Italian Culinary Adventures , a company that has also earned kudos from other travel industry folks I know. Owner Francesca Montillo grew up in Southern Italy where her father was greengrocer. An Italian-American cookbook author, she launched the company a decade ago, and she personally leads the tours. She does numerous scheduled tours to different regions each year, and also offers custom private itineraries.

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

I spent 6 days in Italy after dreaming of visiting my whole life. 8 moments made it worth the wait.

• Italy is a European country I always dreamed of visiting. In 2022, that dream came true.
• I spent six days exploring Venice, Rome, and Milan — and some moments felt magical.
• From an art sculpture Airbnb to a gondola ride, here's what I'll never forget about my trip.

Growing up with my half-Italian family in a Manhattan suburb, I always dreamed of going to Italy.

While eating my grandmother's famous spaghetti and meatball dinners and listening to her stories about what it's like to explore the popular vacation destination, I remember longing for Italian experiences of my own.

My dream finally came true in October 2022, when I — at the age of 26 — spent six days exploring Venice, Rome , and Milan for the first time while backpacking through Europe .

Nearly two years after my Italian adventure, I'm still thinking about eight moments that made the long-awaited trip everything I hoped it would be.

I visited Italy during a two-week train trip through Europe. To get to the country, I took an overnight train from Vienna to Venice.

Then I traveled by train to Rome and Milan. I spent two days exploring each city.

While taking trains between cities, I remember looking out the windows and being stunned by the Italian countryside.

I found the rolling hills to be one of the most picturesque views I'd ever seen from a train. The scene looked like something straight out of my dreams.

My first stop in Italy was Venice.

Venice is a 1,200-year-old city made up of islands connected by bridges on the northwestern edge of the Adriatic Sea, according to Britannica .

I'd heard of Venice's canals and car-free streets, but I'll never forget the moment I saw the city myself for the first time.

I felt like I'd just stepped into a storybook with colorful buildings lining the canals.

After wandering the streets of Venice, I took a gondola tour to see the city from a different perspective.

Being in a narrow canal allowed me to see homes from inches away, and the moment I spotted their foundations immersed in the water felt surreal to me.

For my stay in Venice, I booked an Airbnb stay at Castello de Roncade, a castle and winery just outside of the city.

I had another special moment while wandering the castle 's stunning grounds. They were filled with perfectly placed plants and sculptures that I thought looked enchanting.

My favorite part of the grounds was a massive tree I found alluring. It was a 250-year-old Lebanon Cedar tree, a representative for Castello de Roncade told me.

Looking up from underneath it made me feel tiny.

From Venice, I traveled to Rome — one of this summer's most popular tourist destinations.

The city of Rome is nearly 3,000 years old and known for its rich history and romantic vibes. And according to a recent study by Delta , it's one of the most-searched travel destinations for the summer of 2024.

During my stay, I slept in a livable art sculpture I found on Airbnb, and I thought it was the most unique accommodation I'd ever experienced.

My host, Alessandro, told me he built the livable sculpture on the roof of his villa using recycled materials like car windows, scrap wood, and pieces of broken tiles.

Before booking this Airbnb, I'd never even heard of a sculpture home. I imagined it would feel like sleeping in a giant piece of art, with quirky design elements in every corner. Turns out, I was right.

I'll never forget how amazing it felt to wake up inside this Airbnb with sunlight pouring in thanks to all the windows. I wish I could start every day with a moment like that.

While exploring the city on foot, I remember spotting two alluring street artists. Under the shade of a tree near the Roman Forum, I watched an artist paint a chapel across the street.

Seeing him in his own world in a public space among so many people was remarkable and inspiring to me.

A few minutes later, I spotted another artist sculpting dogs from sand.

I thought this was such a unique form of art and found it fascinating to watch.

The last stop of my trip was Milan.

The northern Italian city is known for being a world capital of fashion and finance, according to Britannica . But my favorite moment in this city had nothing to do with these things. 

My favorite moment here came from an aimless walk around the city when I stumbled upon a red brick castle that looked massive.

It was Castello Sforzesco, a 15th-century castle built by Francesco Sforza, a duke of Milan who founded the Sforza Dynasty, according to Britannica .

I thought the castle looked like it came straight out of a fairy tale.

And since I wasn't expecting to find it in urban Milan, happening upon it by chance made for a special memory.

Thanks to these unique moments, I don't think I'll ever forget my first trip to Italy.

And I can't wait to go back.

Axel Springer, Insider Inc.'s parent company, is an investor in Airbnb.

• Main content

Factbox-Italian Tourist Hotspots Start to Raise Defences Against Overcrowding

FILE PHOTO: People walk near Rialto bridge during Venice carnival in Venice, Italy, January 27, 2024. REUTERS/Guglielmo Mangiapane/File Photo

ROME (Reuters) - Venice became the first city in the world on Thursday to introduce a payment system for visitors in an experiment aimed at dissuading tourists from arriving during peak periods.

However, it isn't the only place in Italy that has recently introduced new measures aimed at slowing tourist flows.

Here are some of the initiatives currently in force.

The lagoon city has introduced tickets for day trippers that cost 5 euros and are valid from 0830 to 1600 local time. The experiment came into force on April 25, a national holiday in Italy. Tickets will be needed for the following 10 days and thereafter for most weekends until mid-July.

Venice residents, students, workers and home owners are exempt from paying or booking a slot. Visitors aged under 14 and tourists with hotel reservations will need to be registered, but access for them will be free of charge.

Photos You Should See - April 2024

Other cities, such as Como, have said they are considering introducing a similar measure, but are waiting to see how the Venice initiative works before deciding.

Besides this, Venice has also said that from June it will limit the size of tourist groups to 25 people and ban the use of loudspeakers by tour guides.

Florence announced in October it was banning new short-term residential lets on platforms such as Airbnb in its historic centre. It also offered three years of tax breaks to landlords of short-term holiday lets if they start offering ordinary leases for residents.

The city's famous museum, the Uffizi, offers discounts to people who arrive before 8.55 a.m. and lower prices off-season. To spread out crowds, it also closes at 10 p.m. once a week.

CINQUE TERRE

The five villages that make up the Cinque Terre on the Italian Rivieria regularly get swamped with visitors.

To try to reduce the overcrowding at peak periods, the authority which oversees the area said this week it would charge visitors 15 euros to walk the most celebrated coastal path. In addition, the path can only be walked in one direction.

The picturesque small island that lies across the bay from the southern city of Naples has doubled its entry fee, which is automatically added to ferry tickets, to 5 euros. The fee will be charged from April 1 to October 1.

CAPRI, ISCHIA, PROCIDA, LAMPEDUSA, LINOSA

These islands have introduced limits, or outright bans, on cars for non-residents during the main tourist season.

(Reporting by Crispian Balmer; Editing by Peter Graff)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

Join the Conversation

Tags: Italy , Europe

America 2024

Health News Bulletin

Stay informed on the latest news on health and COVID-19 from the editors at U.S. News & World Report.

Sign in to manage your newsletters »

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

You May Also Like

The 10 worst presidents.

U.S. News Staff Feb. 23, 2024

Cartoons on President Donald Trump

Feb. 1, 2017, at 1:24 p.m.

Photos: Obama Behind the Scenes

April 8, 2022

Photos: Who Supports Joe Biden?

March 11, 2020

Fed: High Inflation Stalls Rate Cut

Tim Smart May 1, 2024

Congress Comes Down on Campus Protests

Aneeta Mathur-Ashton May 1, 2024

University Leaders in Their Own Words

Laura Mannweiler May 1, 2024

April Job Gains Above Forecasts

Nationwide Campus Protests Escalate

Laura Mannweiler April 30, 2024

What to Know: Trump Gag Order Violations

Lauren Camera April 30, 2024