The Complete Travel Guide to Italy

Italy has it all: rich history, a fun culture, delicious food and wine, a dream destination for many. Whether you're strolling through the ancient streets of Rome, admiring the art in Florence, or relaxing along the stunning Amalfi Coast, Italy offers something for everyone. To make the most of your Italian adventure, here's a comprehensive guide to your first time in Italy.

LANGUAGE

Italian is the official language of Italy. While many Italians speak English, especially in tourist areas, learning a few basic Italian phrases can enhance your experience and help you connect with locals.

CURRENCY

The currency used in Italy is the Euro (EUR). ATMs are widely available throughout the country, and credit cards are accepted in most shops, restaurants, and hotels. Cash is still used to pay for tipping and for street vendors.

CUISINE

Italian cuisine is what everyone talks about. From pasta dishes to wood-fired pizzas and creamy gelato, there's no shortage of carbs and dairy. Some staples include: risotto from Milan, seafood along the coast, pizza and mozzarella in Naples, pasta and bruschetta in Rome, steak in Florence, and tortellin and bolognese sauce in Bologna.

WEATHER & WHEN TO GO

The climate varies based on region and time of year. The best to visit is during the spring and summer (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. However, I went end of April and beginning of May and the weather was a bit unpredictable and it was starting to get really busy with tourists. Summers (July to August) can be hot and crowded, especially in popular tourist destinations.

PLUGS

The plug type you need is Type C - here is a link.

You can also get a universal plug adapter if you are traveling to more than 1 county - linked it here for you.

WHERE TO STAY

There are so many different types of trips you can take to Italy and various regions you can visit. I’ll give a brief overview but I plan to dive deeper into this topic for Italy

• Northern Italy

  • Home to the fashion capital and known for its culture and food. Consisting of Milan, Lake Como, Venice, Bologna, and Cinque Terre.

• Central Italy

  • Connecting the north and the south and where Rome is located, central Italy has a ton of history. Here you will find Rome, Florence, Tuscany, Siena, and Umbria.

• Southern Italy

  • Land of ancient ruins and incredible coastlines. In the south, you can visit Naples, Pompeii, Amalfi Coast, Sicily, and Sardinia.

TRANSPORTATION

Italy has an efficient transportation network, making it easy to explore the country. Major cities are connected by high-speed trains, while buses and ferries provide access to smaller towns and islands. I like to use Omio and Ferryhopper to book public transit. Renting a car is a great option for exploring the more rural areas, but be prepared for narrow roads and limited parking in city centers like Amalfi and Rome.

SAFETY

Italy is generally a safe destination for travelers. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded tourist areas for pickpockets, avoid walking alone at night, and be aware of your surroundings.