Planning a holiday in Italy? Check out our tips for this beautiful country! Prepared by our associate seasoned travelers as well as locals, these tips will help you get the most of your trip and avoid some typical mistakes.
Table of Contents
Plan in advance
Italy has so much to see and experience that you won’t probably visit everything in one visit (unless you have a very long vacation – if so, lucky you).
- Pick the right season to visit – summer gets scorching sometimes, and winter might be cold and snowy. Spring and autumn have the best weather, but also the longest queues.
- Draw up a map of places you want to visit to make it easier to plan your route.
- Book tickets to attractions in advance. The lines might get intense, and purchasing tickets in advance will save you a lot of time and make your visit better overall.
Pack appropriately
Packing for a holiday abroad is always more of an ordeal than for a domestic one.
- Wear comfortable shoes. Italian streets are mostly paved with cobblestone, and a lot of landmarks feature long stairs, so walking footwear might be a key to an enjoyable vacation.
- Don’t forget to check your plugs. For Italy, there are three associated plug types: C, F, and L. If your appliances have different plugs, consider taking an adapter along.
- A refillable water bottle is also recommended – in the hot season, it will save you money from purchasing water in a shop.
Keep traditions in mind
Italian culture might be different from your own – respect the customs, it is always appreciated and repaid with kindness.
- Be aware of riposino. Most shops and restaurants close for lunch, because the time between 1pm and 4pm is the hottest.
- Keep it modest in religious sites. Churches and other holy places ask visitors, both men and women, to cover their knees and upper arms.
- Don’t order a coffee with a meal – you might get a few disapproving glances. Having one after a meal is okay, though.
