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Italy, located in Southern Europe, is a land of rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. The capital city, Rome, is known as the ‘Eternal City’ due to its ancient landmarks and deep historical roots. When you visit Italy, you’ll find picturesque towns, breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, magnificent churches, and bustling cities. Italy is also celebrated for its world-famous cuisine, fine wines, and warm hospitality. Whether you seek adventure, art, history, or culinary delights, Italy promises unforgettable memories and discoveries for every traveler.


  • Italy uses the Euro (EUR) as its currency. As of July 2024, 1 EUR = 1.10 USD / 0.85 GBP.
  • Italy uses plug type C, F, and L. The standard voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz, so ensure your devices are compatible or bring a suitable adapter.
  • Public transport in Italy is extensive and reliable. Major cities offer metro, tram, and bus services, with options for tourist passes and travel cards. For intercity travel, you can use trains, buses, or rent a car.
  • Italy operates on Central European Time (CET), which is UTC+1.
  • Tipping is not mandatory in Italy as service is usually included in the bill, but leaving a small amount for good service is appreciated.
  • Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa for Italy if you are traveling from outside the Schengen Area.
  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.
  • Routine vaccinations like measles and hepatitis should be up to date.
  • Italy is generally very safe for traveller’s, but as with any destination, itโ€™s wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Especially in big cities and tourist hotspots.

The colourful buildings of Varenna across Lake Como, Italy.

Varenna, Lake Como


  • Italy is home to more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other country, with 58 sites as of 2024.
  • The country boasts some of the worldโ€™s most iconic landmarks, including the Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Vatican City.
  • When you visit Italy, you’ll find a country of rich musical heritage, being the birthplace of opera and many famous composers like Vivaldi and Verdi.
  • The Italian language has over 85 million native speakers worldwide.
  • Italy consumes more wine than any other country in the world.

  • Italy is a country rich in cultural heritage, traditions, history and natural beauty.
  • Italian culture values family, food, art, and community. Learning some basic Italian phrases can enhance your experience. For example, “Buongiorno” means good day, “Grazie” means thank you, and “Arrivederci” means goodbye.
  • When you visit Italy, donโ€™t miss the traditional Italian cuisine. Try pizza, pasta, risotto, and gelato. Equally, for a traditional dessert, you should indulge in tiramisu or cannoli, and explore the country’s exquisite wines.
  • Italy is predominantly Roman Catholic, so you’ll find beautiful churches and cathedrals throughout the country.

A solitary boat on Lake Como, Italy.

Lake Como, Italy




Overlooking Bergamo from La Citta Alta, Italy

Bergamo, from La Citta Alta


When you visit Italy, you will need to choose your travel dates wisely depending on the experience you desire. Major cities and coastal destinations in Italy will be busier in the summer months due to the good weather; however, the winter months bring the offer of attractive ski resorts in the Alps and Dolomites.

  • Spring is one of the best times to visit Italy, with pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes. Cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice come alive with outdoor cafรฉs and cultural events, while the countryside is painted in shades of green and blossoms. This is the perfect time to explore Italyโ€™s famous landmarksโ€”like the Colosseum, Vatican, and Uffizi Galleryโ€”before the summer crowds arrive. The Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre are quieter, offering breathtaking views and scenic hikes. Spring also marks the start of food festivals, such as Sagra della Fragola (Strawberry Festival) in Nemi.
  • Summer in Italy is vibrant and busy, with high temperatures and plenty of activities. Coastal areas like Sardinia, the Amalfi Coast, and Sicily are at their peak, drawing visitors for sunbathing, water sports, and beachside dining. Cities can be hot and crowded, but they host cultural festivals and events such as Firenze Rocks in Florence and outdoor opera performances in Veronaโ€™s Roman Arena. Escape to the Italian Alps for cooler weather and outdoor adventures, or visit Tuscanyโ€™s vineyards for wine tours. Be prepared for popular tourist spots to be busy, but full of life.
  • Autumn brings cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, making it an ideal time to explore Italy at a more leisurely pace. The countryside, particularly in regions like Tuscany, turns golden and is perfect for vineyard tours during the grape harvest season. Cities like Milan and Bologna host fashion events and food festivals, such as the famous Truffle Festival in Alba. The Dolomites are stunning for autumn hikes, and Veniceโ€™s canals reflect the seasonโ€™s warm colours. Itโ€™s also a great time to explore southern Italy, where the weather remains mild and the beaches are far less crowded.
  • If you visit Italy in the winter, you will find two distinct experiences: festive city life and snow-covered mountains. Northern Italy, especially in the Dolomites and Alps, becomes a hub for skiing, snowboarding, and cozy mountain retreats. Cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice are quieter, and you can explore landmarks without long queues. Winter also brings the festive charm of Christmas markets in cities like Bolzano and Milan, while Veniceโ€™s Carnival in February is a spectacular cultural experience. This season is perfect for indulging in hearty Italian dishes, including risotto, polenta, and regional specialties.

Italy has a huge number of destinations to explore, depending on your desired experience and the time of year.

  • The capital city is rich in history and culture, making it a must-visit. Stay in the historic centre to be near landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican City. Trastevere offers a charming neighbourhood vibe with cobblestone streets, lively bars, and local eateries.
  • Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is a treasure trove of art and architecture. Stay near the Duomo for easy access to major attractions like the Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio, or in the Oltrarno district for a more local experience filled with artisan workshops.
  • The enchanting canals and historic buildings make Venice a unique destination. Stay near St. Markโ€™s Square for iconic views and easy access to attractions, or in the quieter neighbourhoods like Cannaregio for a more authentic Venetian experience.
  • A global fashion and design capital, Milan offers a mix of modernity and history. Stay near the Duomo for proximity to the cathedral and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, or in the Brera district for trendy boutiques, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife.
  • This stunning coastal region is famous for its colourful cliffside villages. Stay in one of the five villagesโ€”such as Vernazza or Monterossoโ€”for breathtaking views, hiking trails, and access to beautiful beaches.
  • Known for its vibrant street life and culinary scene, Naples is the gateway to the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii. Stay in the historic centre to explore local markets and historic sites or in the Chiaia district for trendy shops and seaside views.
  • A picturesque medieval city in Tuscany, Siena is famous for its beautiful architecture and the Palio horse race. Stay in the city centre to explore the Piazza del Campo and the stunning Siena Cathedral, or in a nearby agriturismo for a countryside experience.
  • Renowned for its rich culinary traditions, Bologna is perfect for food lovers. Stay in the historic centre to explore the beautiful arcades, visit the University of Bologna, and indulge in delicious local dishes at traditional trattorias.

Duomo di Milano in Milan, Italy

Duomo di Milano, Milan


Italy is a treasure trove of culture, history, and culinary delights.

  • Begin your adventure in Rome, where ancient ruins and vibrant life coexist. Visit the iconic Colosseum, Roman Forum, and be awed by the artistic masterpieces in Vatican City, including St. Peterโ€™s Basilica and the breathtaking Sistine Chapel. Stroll through Piazza Navona and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain for good luck.
  • Next, head to Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance. Here, you can admire art at the Accademia Gallery and the Uffizi Gallery. Then, climb to the top of the Duomo for panoramic views of the city and visit the charming streets of Oltrarno.
  • Donโ€™t miss Venice, a city of canals and romance. Enjoy a gondola ride, visit St. Markโ€™s Basilica, and explore the winding alleyways and hidden squares. The Rialto Bridge also offers a picturesque view and access to vibrant markets.
  • For stunning landscapes, travel to Tuscany, where you can explore vineyards and olive groves, and sample local wines in the picturesque towns of Siena and San Gimignano.
  • In the south, visit the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, where colourful cliffside villages like Positano and Ravello offer spectacular views and seafood. A trip to Sicily reveals ancient ruins like the Valley of the Temples and stunning beaches.
  • Alternatively, if youโ€™re a history enthusiast, explore Pompeii to see the preserved ruins of the ancient city.
  • Lastly, indulge in Italyโ€™s culinary heritage. Enjoy regional specialties, from pasta and pizza to delightful desserts like gelato and cannoli. Also, with its rich tapestry of art, history, and flavours, Italy offers an unforgettable travel experience for every visitor.

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The Best Booking Resources for Your Trip

Make sure you’ve got what you need for your trip! These companies are by far the best to use when you are organising your travels. Tried and tested, they are the most consistently reliable resources that will take care of all of your travel needs. I regularly use these websites for my own travels and have used most of them for some time with many positive experiences.

Accommodation

I use a couple of websites when searching for accommodation, depending on the type of stay I am looking for.

  • Trip Advisor: One of the top travel platforms, offering comprehensive listings, price comparisons, and booking options with millions of verified reviews and ratings for hotels. Another benefit to using TripAdvisor is that it also offers the same service for finding restaurants and attractions.
  • Hostelworld: Hostelworld is another leading platform but specializing in budget accommodations. It features millions of reviews and ratings for hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels worldwide. Ideal for backpackers, budget travellers, and solo travellers, Hostelworld ensures a cost-effective and enjoyable stay.
  • AirBNB: My go to place for finding apartments. I find the platform so user friendly and the variety to be incredible.. This platform is more suited to people who do not want to stay in hotels, people who may want additional facilities such as a kitchen or laundry.

Flights and transportation:

  • Omio: This website simplifies planning and booking for trains, buses, and flights. It provides detailed schedules, prices, and user reviews, allowing travellers to compare and book the best travel options.
  • Google Flights: This is my go to place when I’m looking for flights. It offers so much flexibility and the interface is incredibly easy to use. 
  • Skyscanner: The only real alternative to google flights. They are slightly different but offer the same overall service.

If you want to know how I guarantee the cheapest flights possible and see my entire process, you can get 50% off my expert guide to cheap flights eBook here.

Activities:

  • Get Your Guide: I use Get Your Guide to book any excursions or activities. It has the worldโ€™s largest collection of things to do with over 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
  • WeGoTrip: This is the best place to find and book audio excursions and tours. All of the tours are created by local experts and professional tour guides.

Insurance

  • Visitors Coverage: You should always have travel insurance for any trip you decide to embark on. Visitors coverage is the best place to get yourself covered.