Travel Tips
Italy
Ancient ruins, Renaissance art, dramatic coasts and unforgettable food fill any trip to Italy.
- Capital
- Rome
- Currency
- Euro (EUR)
- Language
- Italian
- Best overall
- April to June and September to October
- Emergency
- 112
- Electricity
- 230V, plug types C, F and L
Top Destinations
This country is in the Schengen Area. Many visitors can stay up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa, while others need a Schengen visa. Check the current rules for your passport, including the EES and ETIAS entry systems. Passport validity rules vary, so check the requirements before you book.
Read about visa on arrival, e-visas and online registration →
Still have specific visa questions?
Spring and early autumn are ideal. August is hot and crowded, and many local businesses close for holidays.
Not sure which month suits your trip?
Rome
The Colosseum, the Forum and the Vatican next door.
Florence
Renaissance art and a base for Tuscany.
Venice
Canals, palaces and quiet lanes away from St Mark's Square.
Amalfi Coast
Colorful towns on steep cliffs above the sea.
Cinque Terre
Five seaside villages linked by trains and trails.
Need help choosing where to go?
- Days 1 to 3 Rome
- Days 4 to 6 Florence
- Days 7 to 8 Venice
- Days 9 to 10 Cinque Terre
- Days 11 to 13 Amalfi Coast
Want a route planned around your dates?
- High-speed trains link the main cities. Validate paper regional tickets before boarding.
- Avoid driving into historic centers, which are often restricted zones with heavy fines.
Not sure how to get between places?
- Carry some cash, and expect a small cover charge (coperto) at some restaurants.
- Buy an eSIM before you fly or a local SIM on arrival, so maps work from day one.
Questions about costs, cash or SIM cards?
- Fresh pasta, different in every region.
- Pizza, especially in Naples.
- Gelato from a good shop.
Want tips on what and where to eat?
- Watch for pickpockets on public transport and in busy tourist spots.
- Book big museums in advance, and cover shoulders and knees in churches.
Planning a trip to Italy?
Book a one-on-one call and bring your questions about your route, costs and visa.
Information on this page may change, so please confirm the latest visa and entry requirements and your government travel advice on official websites before you travel.