Travel Tips for Italy

Planning a trip to Italy? Whether you're traveling for the first time or returning for another slice of la dolce vita, knowing how to navigate Italian culture, logistics, and etiquette can make a big difference. This guide covers essential travel tips—from transportation and dining customs to money, language, and local habits—to help you travel smarter and more enjoyably.

1. Know the Basics Before You Go

• Language: Italian is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning key phrases like “grazie” (thank you) and “scusi” (excuse me) will go a long way.
• Currency: Italy uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, but small towns and shops may prefer cash.
• Time Zone: Central European Time (CET), UTC +1.
• Tipping: Not obligatory, but appreciated. Round up at cafés and leave 5–10% at restaurants if service is excellent.

🇮🇹 Need a refresher on Italy’s basics? Start with our About Italy guide.

2. Transportation Tips

🚆 Trains Are the Way to Go

Italy has one of Europe’s most efficient train networks.

• High-speed lines (Frecciarossa, Italo) connect major cities like Rome, Florence, Milan, and Naples.
• Regional trains are slower but scenic—perfect for reaching places like Cinque Terre or Tuscany.

Booking tip: Use Trenitalia or Italo websites or apps. Book in advance for the best fares.

🚗 Renting a Car? Know the Rules

Cars are best for exploring rural regions like Tuscany or Sicily.

• ZTL Zones: Many cities have limited traffic areas (Zona a Traffico Limitato). Driving inside without a permit will result in fines.
• Manual Transmission: Most rentals are stick shift—request automatic if needed.
• Speed Cameras: Strictly enforced across highways and cities.

🛣️ Get more regional insights in our Transportation Guide for Italy.

3. Accommodation Tips

Italy offers a wide range of places to stay—from luxury hotels to charming agriturismos (farm stays).

• Book early during peak seasons (May–June and September).
• Check for local taxes—“tassa di soggiorno” is a per-night tourism tax, usually paid in cash at check-out.
• Use reputable platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, or Airbnb.

🛏️ Looking for lodging tips? Explore Accommodation in Italy for the best places to stay.

4. Dining & Food Etiquette

🍝 Understand the Meal Structure

Meals in Italy are a leisurely event.

• Colazione (Breakfast): Typically just espresso and a pastry.
• Pranzo (Lunch): Main meal of the day, often with multiple courses.
• Cena (Dinner): Lighter, often eaten after 8 p.m.

Typical courses: Antipasto, Primo (pasta or risotto), Secondo (meat or fish), Contorno (side), and Dolce (dessert).

☕ Coffee Rules

• No cappuccino after 11 a.m. Italians stick to espresso in the afternoon.
• Stand or sit? Ordering at the bar is cheaper than table service.

🍷 For a deeper dive, visit Food & Drink in Italy.

5. Cultural Etiquette

• Dress modestly when visiting churches—no shorts or bare shoulders.
• Don’t touch produce at markets—ask the vendor to assist you.
• Respect personal space, but don’t be surprised by warm greetings like cheek kisses or handshakes.
• Quiet hours: Many towns observe “riposo” (afternoon rest) between 1–4 p.m., when shops may close.

6. Money & Budgeting Tips

• ATMs (bancomat) offer the best exchange rates. Avoid currency exchange kiosks in airports or train stations.
• Cash is king in rural areas, open-air markets, and smaller businesses.
• Keep coins handy for public toilets and vending machines.

7. Tech & Connectivity

• Free Wi-Fi is common in cafés, hotels, and city centers, but speeds vary.
• Buy a local SIM card (TIM, Vodafone, WindTre) or use an eSIM via apps like Airalo for affordable data.
• Google Translate and Google Maps are essential tools—download offline maps ahead of time.

8. Health & Safety

• Tap water is safe and often available at free public fountains (nasoni in Rome).
• Pharmacies (farmacia) are the go-to for over-the-counter medicine.
• Travel insurance is recommended, especially for medical care or lost items.

🛡️ Learn more about safety concerns in our Is Italy Safe for Tourists? article.

9. Seasonal Tips

• Summer: Hot and crowded. Cities like Rome and Florence can feel stifling—escape to the coast or mountains.
• Winter: Great for skiing in the Alps or Dolomites. Fewer tourists and lower prices in cities.
• Spring & Fall: Ideal balance of weather, pricing, and crowd levels.

10. Responsible & Sustainable Travel

• Use refillable water bottles—many cities have public fountains.
• Support locally-owned businesses and artisans instead of large chains.
• Choose train travel or eco-certified accommodations where possible.

🌱 Discover how to travel greener in our Sustainable Tourism in Italy guide.

Final Thoughts

Traveling in Italy is an enriching experience, but it’s even better when you're prepared. These practical tips help you avoid common pitfalls and embrace the best parts of Italian life. Be respectful, be curious, and most of all—slow down and savor every moment.