Italy

Italy is a living masterpiece where centuries of history, art, and culinary excellence converge to create an unforgettable travel experience. From the sun-drenched ruins of the Roman Forum to the mist-shrouded peaks of the Dolomites, every corner offers a profound sense of place and heritage. You can expect a landscape where time-honored traditions meet modern style, whether you are sipping espresso in a bustling piazza or exploring the quiet canals of Venice. It is a destination that engages all the senses, inviting you to slow down and appreciate the art of "dolce far niente"—the sweetness of doing nothing. This Mediterranean jewel remains one of the world's most evocative destinations, offering something unique for every type of visitor.

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We built this guide using official tourism data, local travel insights, and real pricing from our city guides, so you can plan your trip with confidence.

13 cities
39 guides
$88 – $150 Daily Budget

Quick Facts

Capital
Rome
Languages
Italian
Currency
Euro (EUR)
1 € ≈ 1.18 $
Plug Type
Type C/F/L (230V, 50Hz)
Driving Side
Right
Dial Code
+39
Entry Requirements
Check requirements →
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Time Zone
CET (UTC+1) / CEST (UTC+2 in summer)
Emergency
112 (all services); also 113 (State Police), 115 (Fire), 118 (Ambulance)

Why Visit Italy

Unrivaled Art and History

Italy has 61 UNESCO World Heritage properties—currently the most of any country—spanning everything from ancient ruins to Renaissance city centers. You can walk through the Colosseum in Rome or admire the intricate detail of Michelangelo's David in Florence.

Exceptional Culinary Heritage

Italian food is a global favorite, but nothing compares to tasting regional specialties in their birthplace. From creamy risotto in Milan to authentic wood-fired pizza in Naples, the focus is always on high-quality, seasonal ingredients.

Diverse Scenic Landscapes

The country's geography is incredibly varied, offering everything from the rugged cliffs of the Amalfi Coast to the rolling vineyards of Tuscany. Whether you prefer the glamorous shores of Lake Como or the dramatic limestone peaks of the Alps, the vistas are consistently world-class.

Sophisticated Fashion and Design

As a global leader in style, cities like Milan offer a premier shopping and aesthetic experience. You can explore luxury boutiques in the Quadrilatero della Moda or discover local artisans hand-crafting leather goods in the workshops of Florence.

Efficient High-Speed Rail

Italy's sophisticated Trenitalia and Italo networks make traveling between major hubs like Venice, Rome, and Florence incredibly easy and comfortable. You can travel across the country at speeds up to 300km/h, maximizing your time for sightseeing instead of transit.

Enchanting Mediterranean Coastline

With thousands of kilometers of shoreline, Italy features some of the most beautiful seaside villages in Europe. The colorful houses of Cinque Terre and the turquoise waters surrounding Sicily provide iconic views that have inspired artists for centuries.

Top Experiences

Top-rated tours and activities in Italy

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Cities & Destinations

Regions

Northern Italy and the Lakes

This region encompasses the fashion capital Milan, the romantic canals of Venice, and the stunning Italian Lake District. It is known for its alpine scenery, sophisticated industrial cities, and rich culinary traditions involving polenta, truffles, and sparkling wines.

Tuscany and Central Italy

This area is the heart of the Renaissance, home to the rolling hills of Chianti and the historic power centers of Florence and Rome. Visitors flock here for world-class museums, medieval hilltop towns, and some of the most celebrated vineyards in the world.

Southern Italy and the Amalfi Coast

This sun-soaked region includes the vibrant city of Naples, the dramatic cliffs of Positano, and the island of Sicily. It is famous for its intense Mediterranean flavors, ancient Greek ruins, and a slower, more traditional pace of life that captures the classic Italian spirit.

Where to Stay

See hotels, apartments & rentals around Amalfi Coast, Italy – live prices from Booking.com, Expedia, Vrbo and more

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Cities & Destinations:

Best Time to Visit

Italy is a year-round destination, but the most balanced experiences are found in late spring and early autumn. These periods offer comfortable temperatures for walking tours and vibrant local food festivals without the intense summer heat.

Peak Season

Jun, Jul, Aug

The summer months bring hot weather with temperatures often exceeding 30–35°C (86–95°F) in cities like Rome and Florence. While it is the best time for beaches on the Amalfi Coast and Sicily, major tourist hubs are extremely crowded and prices for accommodation peak.

Shoulder Season

Apr, May, Sep, Oct

Regarded as the sweet spot for visitors, these months feature pleasant weather typically between 15–25°C (59–77°F). It is ideal for exploring the rolling hills of Tuscany or the canals of Venice with manageable crowds.

Off-Peak

Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar

Winter offers the lowest prices and shortest queues for museums. While the north can be cold and snowy—perfect for the Italian Alps—the south remains milder, though many coastal resorts on the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre may close for the season.

Getting Around

Italy boasts a sophisticated and extensive transport network, particularly the high-speed rail system connecting major cities. Urban transport varies by city, with comprehensive metro systems in Milan and Rome, and unique water-based transport in Venice.

Train

The most efficient way to travel between cities. High-speed lines (Frecciarossa and Italo) connect Rome, Florence, Milan, and Naples in just a few hours. Regional trains are slower but reach smaller towns like those in the Cinque Terre.

Metro

Available in seven cities including Rome, Milan, and Naples. Ticket prices vary by city (e.g., Rome BIT $1.77 / €1.5; Milan urban $2.59 / €2.2). Tickets must be validated before boarding. Contactless payment is increasingly common at turnstiles.

Bus

Local buses fill the gaps where trains don't go, particularly in more rural areas like the Amalfi Coast. Intercity buses like FlixBus and Itabus offer budget-friendly alternatives for longer distances.

Ferry

Essential for visiting the islands of Sicily, Sardinia, and Capri, or for navigating Lake Como. In Venice, the ACTV vaporetto uses a 75-minute 'Rete Unica' ticket ($11 / €9.5).

Food & Drink

Italian dining is a social ritual centered on regional seasonality and high-quality raw ingredients. Meals typically follow a structured sequence of antipasto, primo, secondo, and dolce, almost always accompanied by local wine and good conversation.

Must Try

Pizza Napoletana

Authentic Neapolitan pizza features a soft, charred crust and simple, fresh toppings like San Marzano tomatoes and mozzarella di bufala.

Carbonara

This classic Roman pasta is made with eggs, pecorino romano cheese, guanciale, and black pepper to create a rich, savory sauce.

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

A massive T-bone steak sourced from Chianina cattle, seasoned with olive oil and salt, then grilled over charcoal to be served rare.

Risotto alla Milanese

This creamy rice dish from Milan is prized for its vibrant golden color, which comes from the infusion of high-quality saffron.

Gelato

More than just ice cream, authentic Italian gelato is churned slowly for a dense texture and served at a slightly warmer temperature for maximum flavor.

Aperol Spritz

A popular pre-dinner drink made with Aperol, Prosecco, and a splash of soda water, usually garnished with a fresh orange slice.

Lasagne alla Bolognese

A hearty baked pasta dish from Bologna featuring layers of egg pasta, rich meat ragù, creamy béchamel sauce, and Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Money & Costs

Costs vary widely by city and season. A common benchmark puts Italy at ~$93 / €79/day (budget) and ~$236 / €200/day (mid-range) per person, excluding flights. Prices are significantly higher in Venice and Milan compared to southern cities like Naples or Palermo.

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory as a service charge (coperto) is usually included in the bill. Rounding up to the nearest few euros for exceptional service is appreciated but not expected.

Cards

Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities, but smaller shops, rural trattorias, and some taxi drivers still prefer cash.

ATMs

ATMs (Bancomat) are ubiquitous. To avoid high fees, use bank-affiliated machines like BNL (Global ATM Alliance) and always choose to be charged in EUR rather than your home currency.

Culture & Etiquette

Italian culture is deeply rooted in family, community, and the concept of "la bella figura," which emphasizes presenting oneself well in public. While social interactions are warm and expressive, there are specific traditions regarding dining and religious sites that visitors should respect.

✓

Do cover your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites like St. Peter's Basilica to show proper respect.

✕

Don't order a cappuccino after 11:00, as Italians consider milk-heavy coffees a breakfast-only beverage that can interfere with digestion.

✓

Do validate your regional train or bus ticket in the small machines on the platform before boarding to avoid heavy fines.

✕

Don't expect to eat dinner before 19:30 or 20:00, as most authentic local restaurants do not open their doors until later in the evening.

✓

Do say "Buongiorno" or "Buonasera" when entering a small boutique or cafe to acknowledge the staff politely.

✕

Don't tip excessively; a service charge called "coperto" is usually included in the bill for table service and bread.

✓

Do carry some small coins for public restrooms, which often require a fee ranging from $0.59–$1.18 / €0.5–€1 for maintenance.

✕

Don't ask for pineapple on your pizza or ketchup for your pasta, as these are considered major affronts to culinary tradition.

Safety & Health

Italy is generally safe for tourists, though petty crime is a significant concern in high-traffic areas. Violent crime is rare, but vigilance is required in crowded piazzas and on public transport.

Tap Water

Safe to drink

Vaccinations

Be up to date on routine vaccines. CDC also advises considering Hepatitis A for most travelers and Hepatitis B depending on activities; tick-borne encephalitis risk exists for some hikers in parts of northern/northeastern Italy.

Common Scams

  • ⚠ The 'Friendship Bracelet' scam where a string is tied around your wrist followed by a demand for money.
  • ⚠ Pickpocketing on busy bus routes like Rome's Line 64 or in major train stations.
  • ⚠ The 'Found Ring' trick where someone pretends to find a gold ring and offers it to you for cash.
  • ⚠ Fake police officers asking to inspect your wallet or 'verify' your cash and cards.
  • ⚠ Overcharging at restaurants without a posted menu, especially near major monuments like the Colosseum.

Healthcare is of a high standard. Visitors from outside the EU should have comprehensive travel insurance, as costs for private medical care can be substantial.

Language

Italian is the official language. While English is widely spoken in hotels, major museums, and by younger staff in tourist areas, learning basic Italian is highly appreciated and helpful in smaller towns and local markets.

English Spoken: Moderately spoken

Key Phrases

Key Phrases
Meaning Local Pronunciation
Hello / Good morning Buongiorno bwohn-johr-noh
Good evening Buonasera bwoh-nah-seh-rah
Please Per favore pehr fah-voh-reh
Thank you Grazie grah-tsee-eh
You're welcome Prego preh-goh
Excuse me / I'm sorry Scusi skooh-zee
Do you speak English? Parla inglese? pahr-lah een-gleh-zeh
Where is...? Dov'è...? doh-veh

Visa & Entry

Italy is in the Schengen Area (90/180 rule). ETIAS is scheduled to start operations in the last quarter of 2026 (EU will confirm the exact date).

Max Stay

90 days in 180-day period

Passport Validity

Issued within the last 10 years and valid 3 months beyond intended departure from the Schengen Area

Visa-free for

United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Brazil

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Italy safe for solo travelers?
Italy is generally very safe, but you should remain vigilant against petty crime like pickpocketing in crowded tourist hubs like Rome Termini station or near the Duomo in Milan. Violent crime is extremely rare, and solo travelers usually find the country welcoming and easy to navigate by staying aware of their surroundings.
How expensive is a trip to Italy?
Costs vary widely by city and season. A common benchmark puts Italy at ~$93 / €79/day for budget travelers and ~$236 / €200/day for mid-range travelers, covering accommodation, meals, museum entries, and public transport. While luxury stays in Venice or the Amalfi Coast can be very costly, southern regions like Puglia or Sicily offer excellent value for your money and lower daily expenses.
When is the best time to visit Italy?
The best months are May and September, when temperatures range from 18–25°C (64–77°F) and the crowds are thinner than in the peak summer season. July and August can be intensely hot and crowded, with many locals leaving the major cities for their own seaside vacations.
Do I need a visa for Italy?
As a member of the Schengen Area, Italy allows citizens from many countries, including the US, Canada, and Australia, to enter for tourism without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Your passport must be issued within the last 10 years and valid 3 months beyond your intended departure. ETIAS is scheduled to start in the last quarter of 2026. You should always verify the specific entry requirements for your nationality with the official consulate before booking your trip.
Is English widely spoken in Italy?
In major tourist destinations like Rome, Florence, and Venice, English is moderately spoken by staff in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, in smaller villages and more rural regions, learning a few basic Italian phrases like "per favore" and "grazie" will greatly enhance your experience and interactions with local residents.
What should I eat in Italy?
You should focus on eating regional specialties, such as Tagliatelle al Ragù in Bologna or Pesto alla Genovese in Liguria, for the most authentic experience. Avoid restaurants with "tourist menus" near major monuments and look for busy spots where locals are eating to ensure the best quality and value.
How do I get around Italy?
The high-speed rail system is the most efficient way to travel between major cities, offering fast, comfortable, and frequent service between hubs like Milan and Naples. For exploring more remote areas like the Tuscan countryside or the Dolomites, renting a car is recommended to provide the necessary flexibility and access.
Can I drink the tap water in Italy?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink throughout the country, and you will find many public fountains, known as "nasoni" in Rome, providing free, cold drinking water. Bringing a reusable water bottle can save you $2.36–$3.53 / €2–€3 per bottle compared to buying plastic ones at street stalls in tourist areas.
Is Venice still sinking?
Venice faces ongoing challenges with rising sea levels and high tides known as "acqua alta," but the MOSE barrier system now helps protect the city from the worst flooding events. You can visit year-round, though some minor flooding in St. Mark's Square may occur during heavy winter rains or extreme tidal events.
What is the coperto on my bill?
The "coperto" is a standard cover charge, usually ranging from $1.18–$3.53 / €1–€3 per person, that appears on restaurant bills to cover table settings and bread service. It is a legal and traditional practice in Italy, meaning you do not need to leave an additional tip unless the service was truly exceptional.

Why you can trust this guide

Headshot of Jan Křenek, founder of GoTripzi
Jan Křenek

35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data

Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.

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