First time visiting Italy (IT) and not sure what to expect? Here is a compilation of tips and observations from our experiences visiting there to help you set (or cast away) some expectations.
Good to Know
- Italy also goes by the initials IT (derived from the Latin term ‘Italia’ for the Italian Republic)
- Finance:
- Italy uses the Euro as its official currency
- Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, though foreign transaction fees may apply
- To obtain euros, consider withdrawing from local ATMs for convenience and cost-effectiveness, although other options such as currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and exchange offices. Comparing options can help you choose the most suitable method for obtaining currency during your visit to Italy. Here are several options for consideration.
- When using a credit card, if presented with the option to charge in euros or USD, choose euros
- Tap water: Tap water is drinkable. Tip: Bring a refillable water bottle when visiting Italy. Many cities, including Rome, Florence, and Venice, have public drinking fountains known as “nasoni” or “fontanelle” scattered throughout the streets. Look for these iconic fountains, which provide clean and potable drinking water. If a fountain is not suitable for drinking, there will usually be a sign indicating “non-potable”. This allows you to stay hydrated while exploring without needing to constantly buy bottled water.
- Language: English is widely spoken in tourist areas in Italy. However, it’s still polite to inquire first if they speak English: “Parla inglese?”. If they don’t, Google Translate is really helpful!
- Tipping: Italy generally doesn’t have a strong tipping culture either. However, if you appreciate the service, such as at a café or restaurant, it’s customary to round up the bill. For other services like (taxis, baggage porters, etc. here). Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory.
- Sundays: Many places in Italy are closed on Sundays, including markets. However, major transportation hubs like train stations and airports often have stores and markets open on Sundays. Additionally, there is a growing number of cafes permitted to open on Sundays as well.
- Time and date: The 24-hour clock is used here: 2pm = 14:00. The date format is DD/MM/YYYY. So January 5, 2024 = 05/01/2024.
- Carry some 1 euro coins around in case you need to use a public bathroom.
- For popular attractions, book tickets online beforehand as limited number of tickets are sold for them. Skip-the-line options are worth the investment too for the time saved (and energy saved from waiting in line under the hot sun). Unsure where to start? Here is a starting point to look up types of day trips, attractions, skip-the-line options; you’ll need to type in the city you are visiting along with the date. (Note that this is my affiliate link for Viator so I may receive a small commission if you book through my platform.)
- Don’t forget to pack some bug spray! I find it particularly helpful when we are dining outdoors.
Walking Around Town
- Using crosswalks is important in Italy, both for safety reasons and legal ones. Italian drivers are generally accustomed to pedestrians using crosswalks, and it’s safer to cross at designated points. However, always be cautious when crossing the street and ensure that vehicles have come to a complete stop before proceeding. Additionally, be mindful of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas, and keep your belongings secure.
- Always be aware of your surroundings and carry your personal belongings securely on you. Do not put your wallet/cell phone etc in your pants’ back pockets! As in many cities around the world, there are pickpockets. And be aware of scammers offering you an insanely great deal, a tale of woe, a petition to sign, etc.
Using Public Transportation
- Google Maps works well for helping provide bus/train/tram options.
- There is a vast transportation network you can take advantage of to get around. Both Florence and Rome, for example, boast extensive public transportation networks, comprising buses, trams, and metro systems, facilitating convenient travel within the cities. Florence primarily relies on the Autolinee Toscane bus system, while Rome’s network includes buses, trams, and subways. If you’re planning to rely heavily on public transportation and/or staying for an extended period, consider the Autolinee Toscane & Li-nea Card or the Roma Pass, which allows you to load multiple tickets onto a single pass for added convenience.
- These options typically allow users to access all forms of public transportation, including buses, trams, metro, and sometimes even regional trains, depending on the specific city and pass.
- Florence: Florence is relatively small, so walking is the best way to get around. If you need to go to the suburbs, the subway or buses could take you there. And the trains can help get you to places that are longer distance away. See this post for more information on the public transportation systems. Tip: for the long-distance journeys, especially crossing borders, during the summer high season, it’s better to get your train tickets sooner than later because seat reservations are required.
- Rome: Getting around Rome is pretty easy! Walk around the old city to see the sights. But for longer distances or reaching suburbs, hop on a bus, tram, or metro. You can even catch a train from Roma Termini station to explore beyond Rome. For just a few rides, you can just use your credit card to tap in and out of your rides. Kids under 10 travel free with parent; otherwise, everyone needs a separate credit card. Multiple rides/day tickets can be bought online, at vending machine kiosks, and tobacconists at major bus stops and Metro stations. (If you have a physical ticket/card, you may need to validate it before boarding.)
- Learn more with this overview of the public transportation systems across Italy.
- Traveling with a stroller in Rome and Florence can be challenging due to crowded buses and stations lacking elevators. While most buses have ramps for strollers, it’s best to travel during off-peak hours to avoid crowds. Some metro stations have elevators, but not all, so plan your route accordingly for smoother travel.
- In Rome, taxis are available but using FreeNow is one of the more popular options and cheaper than taxis. But you would need to download a separate app. Uber is available, but it can sometimes be as expensive as taxis, and it is generally more available in the big cities in Italy.
Dressing
- Layers are our friends, especially when heading up to the mountains! Use Meteo.it, Accuweather, or Windy.com to check the weather to prepare for your travel to Italy.
- Also, air conditioning is used much more sparingly in IT than in the US. It’s partly due to the infrastructure as there are a lot more older buildings. Many Italian hotels do not have AC, especially those in the 3* and some 4* categories. And many cafes and restaurants have none or a light amount of AC as compared to what you might be used to in the US.
- When visiting churches and religious sites, it’s respectful to dress modestly. This typically means covering your shoulders and knees. Carrying a shawl or scarf to cover up when necessary is a good idea.
- Italy’s cities are often best explored on foot, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. Opt for sturdy shoes suitable for cobblestone streets and long walks.
- Heading to the beach? Note that some beaches are pebbly and some are sandy. It just depends on the region. It’s a good idea to bring water shoes/sandals to help protect the feet.
Dining
- In restaurants and cafes, servers do not automatically bring you the check; you need to ask for it.
- Many places are closed for a siesta so be aware of opening hours.
- The pace of food service is slower than what you might be accustomed to. It’s not uncommon that you could be seated and wait a little before receiving the menu. Time between courses is also a little slower. But if you are eating on a schedule, a quick tip is to skip ordering an appetizer. (You could also let them know you are on a schedule.)
- Water may be free outside at all those fountains, but they may not be free when sitting down at an establishment. Bottled water is typically ordered – with or without gas (carbonation).
- In popular tourist areas and during peak dining times, making reservations at restaurants is advisable. This helps ensure you have a table and can avoid long waits, especially at dinner time. If traveling with children and your family needs to eat earlier, try using Google Maps to filter for restaurants’ opening times to find something that opens earlier. And if you don’t want to make reservations for a restaurant, going when they open is a good shot at getting a table.
- Italians typically eat lunch between 12:30 p.m. and 2:00 p.m., while dinner is served from 7:30 p.m. onwards. Restaurants may not be open outside of these hours, so plan your meals accordingly
- Some restaurants in touristy areas may add a “coperto” or cover charge to your bill. This covers the cost of the table effectively. It’s helpful to be aware of this additional charge to avoid surprises when you receive the bill.
- Tipping in Italy is not as common or expected as it is in some other countries. A service charge is often included in the bill, especially in tourist areas. If exceptional service is provided and a service charge (“servizio”) isn’t included, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated, but not obligatory.
- “Latte” means milk in Italian. If you’re looking for American-style latte, order a “latte macchiato.”
Driving:
- Depending on your situation, sometimes renting a car is the better choice. Rent the smallest car that can fit your family and your luggage. Parking spots are tighter here than in the US.
- Many towns in Italy are very walkable (like Rome and Florence). Some also have car restrictions so unless you are staying in an accommodation in the restricted area, you may need to park outside.
- While there are many trains and buses available, there are other situations where having a car is useful so you can drive outside of the large towns.
- In these cases, please be sure to have an International Driver’s Permit (for example, AAA branches can provide them) and appropriate car seats. All children shorter than 150 cm tall and/or weighing less than 36Kg / 79.4 lbs must use an approved car seat suitable for their weight and height.
- Many cities and towns in Italy have restricted traffic zones known as ZTL. These areas are typically limited to residents and authorized vehicles. Driving into a ZTL without permission can result in fines. Pay attention to signs indicating ZTL areas and plan alternative routes if necessary.
- Some historic city centers may have limited or restricted traffic zones where only residents or authorized vehicles are allowed. Be mindful of signage indicating these zones and avoid driving in them if you’re not permitted.
- Use the left lane for passing; do not pass a car from the right on the highways.
- Finding parking in Italian cities, especially in historic areas, can be challenging. Paid parking lots or garages are often the most convenient option. Street parking may be available but can be limited and subject to time restrictions and fees. Consider using public transportation or walking within city centers to avoid the hassle of parking.
Hope these tips help you navigate Italy during your first time here! Did I miss any? Let me know in the comments!