Italy Travel Tips

When traveling to Italy, understanding the currency and how to manage your money is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Italy uses the Euro (€) as its official currency, and it’s important to familiarize yourself with the denominations, as well as the best practices for accessing and using money while in the country.

Italy primarily operates on a cash-based economy, especially in smaller towns and rural areas, though credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities, hotels, and restaurants. When handling cash, it’s a good idea to carry smaller denominations, as many small businesses and taxis may not accept larger notes, and exact change is often appreciated.

ATMs, known as "bancomat" in Italian, are widely available throughout the country, making it easy to withdraw cash as needed. They are usually found in bank branches, shopping areas, and near popular tourist sites. Using ATMs is the most convenient and cost-effective way to obtain euros, as they typically offer better exchange rates compared to currency exchange booths.

Credit and debit cards are generally accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores in Italy. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted cards, while American Express and Diners Club may not be as widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. When using your card, you may be asked to show identification, so it’s a good idea to carry a photocopy of your passport with you. Keep in mind that some businesses may impose a minimum spending limit for card transactions or may offer a discount for paying in cash.

Before traveling, inform your bank of your trip to avoid any issues with your card being blocked due to unusual activity. Additionally, it’s advisable to have a backup card in case your primary card is lost, stolen, or damaged. While traveling, monitor your bank statements regularly for any unauthorized transactions.

Here are some handy phrases in Italian:

Ciao (chow) - Hello/Goodbye

Grazie (grah-tsyeh) - Thank you

Per favore (pehr fah-voh-reh) - Please

Scusa (skoo-zah) - Excuse me/Sorry

Sì (see) - Yes

No (noh) - No

Buongiorno (bwohn-jor-noh) - Good morning

Parla inglese? (par-lah een-gleh-zeh) - Do you speak English?

Italians are passionate about their language and culture, and a small effort to speak Italian will be warmly welcomed. In Italy, greetings are often accompanied by a handshake or a kiss on both cheeks, especially between friends and acquaintances. Politeness and gestures play a large role in communication, making it important to observe these cultural cues.

Italian is not only a key part of daily communication but also a significant component of the country's rich artistic and literary heritage.

Spring is a delightful time to visit Italy, with temperatures gradually rising as you move from March to May. In March, you can expect average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F), while by May, the temperatures typically rise to between 13°C and 23°C (55°F to 73°F). Spring weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain showers, so it’s advisable to pack layers. Light jackets, sweaters, and long-sleeve shirts paired with comfortable walking shoes are ideal for exploring cities and countryside alike. Don’t forget an umbrella or a light raincoat, especially in northern regions like Milan or Venice, where spring rains are more common.

Summer in Italy can be quite hot, especially in July and August. In the southern regions, such as Sicily and Naples, temperatures can soar to 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F), while northern cities like Milan and Venice experience slightly milder, yet still warm, temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Coastal areas like the Amalfi Coast or the islands of Sardinia and Sicily offer cooling sea breezes, but the inland cities, particularly Florence and Rome, can become sweltering. Light, breathable clothing is essential—think cotton dresses, shorts, t-shirts, and hats to protect yourself from the sun. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also must-haves. If you plan to visit religious sites, remember to pack modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, as this is often required.

Winter in Italy varies greatly depending on where you are. In the north, especially in cities like Milan and Turin, as well as the Alpine regions, winter temperatures can be cold, ranging from -1°C to 8°C (30°F to 46°F). Snow is common in the mountains, making it a great time to visit Italy’s ski resorts. In central Italy, including Rome, winters are milder, with temperatures ranging from 3°C to 12°C (37°F to 54°F), while the south enjoys relatively warm winters with temperatures between 10°C and 16°C (50°F to 61°F). For winter travel, pack a warm coat, sweaters, and thermal layers if you’re heading to colder regions. Sturdy boots are essential if you plan to visit mountainous areas or if you’re exploring cities with wet or snowy conditions.

Italy uses Type C, F, and L plugs. Type C and F plugs have two round pins, while Type L plugs have three round pins in a straight line. A universal travel adapter is a good investment to cover all plug types you might encounter.

Remember, an adapter allows your device to fit into the socket, but it doesn’t convert voltage. If your device isn’t dual voltage, a converter will be necessary. It’s wise to bring a power strip with surge protection if you have multiple devices to charge.

If you forget an adapter or converter, they’re available in Italian electronics stores and airports, though they might be pricier than buying them in advance. Consider bringing a portable power bank, especially if you’ll be in remote areas or outdoors where outlets are limited. Being prepared with the right equipment ensures you’ll have no issues keeping your devices charged throughout your trip.

In Italian restaurants, a service charge, known as "coperto," is often added to the bill, especially in tourist areas. This charge typically covers bread and table settings, and it varies from place to place. Because of this, tipping is not obligatory, but it is common to leave a small amount if the service was good. Rounding up the bill or leaving a few euros (about 5-10% of the total bill) is a nice gesture.

When you order a coffee or drink at a bar or café, tipping is not necessary, especially if you stand at the counter. However, if you sit at a table and receive table service, it’s polite to leave some small change (like 50 cents to 1 euro) as a token of appreciation.

Tipping taxi drivers is not obligatory, but rounding up the fare to the nearest euro is common practice. If the driver helps with luggage or provides an excellent service, leaving an extra euro or two is appreciated.

In hotels, tipping is generally not expected, but it’s courteous to tip the bellhop 1-2 euros per bag if they assist with your luggage.

For tour guides, it’s customary to tip around 5-10 euros for a half-day tour or 10-20 euros for a full-day tour, depending on the group size and service quality. For private drivers, tipping 5-10 euros is appropriate, depending on the length of the journey and the level of service.

Travelers in Italy can feel assured knowing that the country has a robust emergency response system. Study your medical insurance to know what it covers abroad - what kind of cases, services and institutions you can count on. In the event of a serious emergency, such as loss of passport, legal trouble, or a major incident, contact your country’s embassy or consulate in Italy. It’s a good idea to have the contact information of your nearest embassy or consulate on hand during your trip.

Many pharmacies in Italy offer assistance for minor medical issues, and some are open 24/7. Look for a "Farmacia" sign, and if you need medication outside regular hours, check for the nearest "Farmacia di turno" (pharmacy on duty).

Tourist information centers are located in major cities and tourist areas across Italy. They offer assistance, maps, and information in multiple languages. Staff can help with emergencies or direct you to the appropriate resources.

More helpful contacts:

• Police (Polizia) - 113 for direct contact with the police. This number can be used to report crimes, thefts, or any other law enforcement issues.
• Ambulance (Emergenza Sanitaria) - 118 for medical emergencies like requesting an ambulance or urgent medical assistance.
• Fire Brigade (Vigili del Fuoco) - dial 115 to reach the fire department in case of fires, gas leaks, or other fire-related emergencies.
• Coast Guard (Guardia Costiera) - 1530 for emergencies at sea, including accidents or incidents on boats.
• Tourist Assistance (Emergency Tourism Hotline) - 039.039.039. This hotline offers assistance to tourists in Italy, providing information and support in case of emergencies or difficulties during your trip.

In addition, our customer support line is available via these numbers:

+1 (954) 787 5105

+41 55 539 18 88

For a casual meal at an inexpensive restaurant, prices generally range from 10 to 20 EUR. This could get you a simple pasta dish, pizza, or panini. Fast food options, such as a slice of pizza or a sandwich from a street vendor, might cost around 3 to 7 EUR.

A mid-range restaurant with a three-course meal for two people will typically cost between 40 to 70 EUR. This would include a selection of antipasti, a main course like risotto or meat, and a dessert, offering a well-rounded taste of Italian cuisine.

High-end restaurants in Italy, especially those with Michelin stars or known for gourmet experiences, can be more expensive. A meal at a top-tier restaurant can easily cost over 100 EUR per person. Looking for the best places to eat? Find the top dining spots in Italy with our complete restaurant guide.

Tips for Saving Money:

• Many restaurants offer a fixed-price lunch menu, "pranzo fisso," which is more affordable than dinner prices.
• Enjoy "aperitivo" hour, where bars offer snacks or small plates along with your drink for a set price, making it a cost-effective early evening meal.
• Trattorias and Osterias. These traditional, family-run eateries often provide authentic meals at lower prices compared to more touristy restaurants.
• Italy’s street food scene, especially in cities like Naples and Palermo, offers delicious, inexpensive options like arancini, supplì, and pizza by the slice.
• In many places, tap water is safe to drink, and you can ask for "acqua del rubinetto" to avoid paying for bottled water.

One of the most iconic traditional dishes is Pasta alla Carbonara, a Roman specialty made with eggs, cheese, pancetta, and pepper, mixed into a creamy sauce over spaghetti or rigatoni. Another beloved dish is Risotto alla Milanese, a creamy rice dish flavored with saffron, native to Milan. It's often served as a side dish to Ossobuco, a slow-cooked veal shank braised with white wine, broth, and vegetables.

Tuscany’s Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a must-try for meat lovers. This thick-cut T-bone steak, traditionally sourced from Chianina cattle, is grilled to perfection and served rare. Polenta, a staple in Northern Italy, is a versatile dish made from boiled cornmeal. It can be served soft as a side dish or allowed to cool and then sliced and grilled.

In the southern regions, Parmigiana di Melanzane, or eggplant parmesan, is a classic, featuring layers of fried eggplant, tomato sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan, baked to golden perfection. Speaking about layers, Lasagna, with its layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, béchamel, and cheese, is a comforting dish enjoyed throughout Italy. Though variations exist, the classic version from Emilia-Romagna remains a favorite for its balance of flavors and textures.

And finally, Gnocchi, small dumplings made from potatoes or semolina, are often served with a variety of sauces, from simple tomato and basil to rich gorgonzola cream. These tender, pillowy bites are a comforting addition to any Italian meal.

Panna Cotta, a creamy dessert made from sweetened cream thickened with gelatin, is typically served with a berry coulis or caramel sauce, offering a delicate and refreshing end to a meal. Gelato, Italy's answer to ice cream, is smoother and denser than its American counterpart and comes in a myriad of flavors, from classic vanilla to exotic fruit blends.

Zabaglione, a dessert made from egg yolks, sugar, and sweet wine, is a light and frothy treat often served with fresh berries or biscotti. Sfogliatella, a flaky pastry filled with sweet ricotta and flavored with cinnamon, is a Neapolitan specialty that is both crispy and creamy.

For chocolate lovers, Tartufo is an indulgent choice. This rich chocolate and hazelnut ice cream dessert is often served in a ball shape, coated with cocoa powder, and filled with a cherry or other surprises. Baba au Rhum, a sponge cake soaked in rum syrup, is another decadent option, particularly popular in Naples.

Modern Italian desserts continue to evolve, with chefs experimenting with new flavors and techniques while staying true to the country’s rich culinary heritage. Whether enjoying a traditional tiramisu or a scoop of innovative gelato, Italy's desserts offer something to satisfy every sweet tooth.

La Befana, celebrated on January 6th, marks the end of the Christmas season in Italy. According to legend, La Befana is an old woman who flies on a broomstick, delivering gifts to children on the eve of Epiphany. Good children receive sweets and gifts, while those who have been naughty find lumps of coal in their stockings. This beloved tradition is a quintessential part of the Italian holiday season, blending folklore with the joy of giving.

Carnevale is one of Italy's most vibrant and colorful celebrations, taking place in the weeks leading up to Lent. Venice is particularly famous for its Carnevale, where elaborate masks, costumes, and parades fill the streets. This festival is a time of indulgence, with music, dancing, and feasting, allowing people to revel in excess before the solemn period of Lent begins. Each region of Italy has its own version of Carnevale, reflecting local customs and traditions.

Festa della Repubblica, celebrated on June 2nd, is Italy's National Day, marking the anniversary of the 1946 referendum that led to the establishment of the Italian Republic. The day is commemorated with parades, ceremonies, and fireworks across the country, particularly in Rome, where a grand military parade takes place. It is a day of national pride and a reflection on Italy's journey to becoming a unified republic.

Christmas in Italy is a season rich in traditions, beginning with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8th and culminating on January 6th with Epiphany. During this period, nativity scenes (presepi) are displayed in homes and churches, Christmas markets fill the squares, and special dishes like panettone and torrone are enjoyed. Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve is a central event, bringing families together to celebrate the birth of Christ.

Ferragosto, on August 15th, is one of Italy’s most cherished holidays, combining religious and secular traditions. Originally a Roman festival celebrating the harvest, Ferragosto is now associated with the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Italians celebrate by taking time off work, heading to the beach, and enjoying outdoor feasts with family and friends. Many towns also hold religious processions and fireworks displays, making it a vibrant and joyful celebration.

Pasqua (Easter) is a deeply religious celebration in Italy, marked by solemn processions and special church services. The week leading up to Easter, known as Settimana Santa (Holy Week), is filled with rituals and events, particularly in cities like Rome and Florence. On Easter Sunday, Italians celebrate with a festive meal, often featuring lamb as the main dish, followed by traditional sweets like Colomba (Easter dove cake) and chocolate eggs.

Palio di Siena is a historic horse race held twice a year in the city of Siena, on July 2nd and August 16th. The race, which dates back to the Middle Ages, is a fierce competition between the city's 17 contrade (districts). Each contrada is represented by a horse and jockey, and the race takes place in the Piazza del Campo, the heart of Siena. The Palio is more than just a race; it’s a display of local pride, tradition, and community spirit, attracting visitors from all over the world.

All Saints' Day (Ognissanti), observed on November 1st, is a solemn religious holiday in Italy. It is a day to honor all saints and remember the deceased. Families visit cemeteries to place flowers on the graves of loved ones, and special church services are held. The day is a reflection of Italy's deep Catholic faith and the importance of family and tradition in honoring those who have passed.