Before You Go

1. Documents & Visas

• Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen Area (which includes Italy).

• Copies: Make both physical and digital copies of your passport, flight details, and hotel confirmations. Keep them separate from the originals. You can also leave a copy with a trusted friend as an added precaution. 

• Visas: For US citizens traveling as tourists, a visa is not required for stays up to 90 days.

• Venice Entrance Fee: Please note that on select days between April and July, all visitors to Venice and its islands are required to pay an entrance fee directly to the Venice City Council, with some exceptions. For the specific dates, payment methods, and to take advantage of the exemptions (including overnight stays in accommodation facilities in the Municipality of Venice), please visit the Venice Access Fee website. Failure to display proof of payment or exemption will result in a fine ranging from 25 to 150 euros, following checks carried out by the Municipality of Venice. Venice is a unique city and the entrance fee helps its maintenance.

2. Currency & Payments

• Currency: Italy uses the Euro (€).

• Credit Cards: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. American Express is often not accepted. It's always a good idea to carry some cash.

• ATMs (Bancomat): This is the best way to get cash while abroad. For lower fees, use ATMs attached to a major bank rather than standalone ATMs in tourist shops.

• Cash: Have at least 200€ in cash upon arrival for small purchases like coffee, gelato, or a taxi. Small, family-run shops may prefer cash as well. You can often get Euros from your bank if you request it in advance!

• Inform Your Bank: Let your bank and credit card companies know about your travel dates to avoid your cards being frozen for suspicious activity.

3. Packing & Power

• Comfortable Shoes: This is non-negotiable. You will be walking extensively on cobblestone streets.

• Attire: Italians dress well ("la bella figura"). Pack smart-casual outfits for evenings. For daytime, comfortable and stylish is the way to go.

• Layers: Pack layers of clothing, as temperatures can change throughout the day, especially in the spring and fall.

• Church Dress Code: To enter most churches, including St. Peter's Basilica and the Duomo in Florence, you must cover your shoulders and knees. A light scarf or pashmina is perfect for this.

• Power Adapters: Italy uses Type F and L plugs with a voltage of 230V. You will need a European plug adapter. Most modern electronics (phones, laptops) are dual-voltage, but check your device's power brick just in case. CLICK HERE for more information as this is VERY IMPORTANT! You could damage expensive electronics if you plug something in!

• Intense Heat & No Shade: When visiting Italy between June and August, be prepared for intense heat and often limited shade, especially at outdoor historical sites. To stay comfortable, pack light, breathable clothing, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen and always carry plenty of water for hydration.

4. Connectivity

• Mobile Phone: Check with your provider about international roaming plans.

• eSIM: For an easier and often cheaper option, consider purchasing an eSIM data plan before you go. 

• Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is often available in hotels and many restaurants, but it may not always be as fast as you're used to.

Once in Italy

Transportation

• Strikes: Be aware that public transportation strikes (Scioperi) can occur with little notice. These can sometimes disrupt trains, buses, and even flights. While they don't happen every day, it's a good idea to check local news or transportation websites for any strike announcements, especially as your travel dates approach. Having a backup plan or being flexible with your itinerary on strike days can save you a lot of hassle!

• Trains: The train system is excellent. The main operators are Trenitalia (the national railway) and Italo (a private high-speed competitor).

• High-Speed Trains (Frecce): Connect major cities quickly and efficiently. Book these in advance for the best prices.

• Regional Trains (Regionale): Slower, cheaper trains for shorter distances. Crucial: If you have a paper ticket for a regional train, you must validate it in the small green or yellow machines on the platform before boarding to avoid a hefty fine.

• Taxis: Use official, metered taxis only. Look for the official taxi stands or have your hotel/restaurant call one for you. Apps like Uber work well in major cities.

• Driving & ZTL Zones: If you are renting a car (which I DO NOT recommend), be aware of Zona a Traffico Limitato (ZTL) areas in the historic centers of most cities. Driving into one without a permit will result in a significant fine, often sent to you months later. Heed the signs carefully! It’s very easy to miss them. 

• Airport Transfers: A lot of airports are not located near the city centres (aka - where your accommodations/activities will most likely be located). Therefore you need to think through how you will get to/from the airport. This could mean getting on and off multiple forms of transportation. If you’d prefer to get a private transfer to your accommodations, please let me know and I can help arrange that for you. 

Accommodations

• City Tax (Tassa di Soggiorno): Nearly all cities charge a tourist tax. This is a per-person, per-night fee that is usually not included in your prepaid hotel cost. It must be paid in cash directly to the hotel upon check-out. The amount varies by city and hotel star rating (typically 2€ - 7€ per person, per night).

• Check-in: Front desks, especially in smaller hotels or B&Bs, may not be staffed 24/7. Be sure to communicate your arrival time in advance.

Dining & Cafés

• Il Coperto: This is a "cover charge" found on most restaurant bills, usually 2€ - 4€ per person. It is not a tip; it covers the bread, olive oil, and table setting. It is normal and unavoidable.

• Servizio: Some restaurants, especially in touristy areas, may add a service charge (servizio) of 10-15% to the bill. If servizio is included, no additional tip is necessary.

• Tipping: Tipping is not obligatory as it is in the US. If service was excellent and no servizio was included, rounding up the bill by a few Euros or leaving a 5-10% tip is a generous gesture and much appreciated.

• Mealtimes: Italians eat late. Lunch is typically from 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, and dinner rarely starts before 8:00 PM. Many restaurants close in the afternoon for a riposo (rest period) and open around 7:30 pm, so plan accordingly especially if you’re traveling with little ones who are used to an earlier dinner. You can sometimes find a grocery store like CONAD that will not close during the afternoon, but it can be tricky. 

• Coffee Culture

  • Ordering coffee "at the bar" (al banco) is cheaper than sitting at a table (al tavolo), though sometimes sitting at a table is worth it, especially if it includes an amazing view.

  • A "caffè" is a shot of espresso.

  • Cappuccinos and lattes are considered morning drinks and are rarely ordered after 11:00 AM. Ordering one after a meal will mark you as a tourist (but do it if you want!).

  • A “latte” is just milk. If you’re hoping for what we call a “latte” in the states, you’ll want to ask for a “caffè latte”.  

• Water

  • When ordering water, you'll be asked for still (naturale) or sparkling (frizzante). Tap water is not typically served in restaurants. It also is not complimentary and costs around 2€ - 5€ for one large bottle the table will share.

  • Some cities do not allow you to carry glass bottles on the streets, so you often will not be able to bring the bottle with you, but you can refill any water bottles you have with you. 

• Translating the Menu

  • Google Translate: Having the Google Translate app downloaded onto your phone as well as downloading both the English and Italian language can help you when trying to translate a menu. The app has a camera function where you can hold it up to the menu, and it will translate the menu for you which is super helpful. 

  • URL Translate Tool: If a website is in Italian, you can often find a small icon located in the URL box that looks like two talk bubbles. If you select that, you can then “Translate to English”. This is helpful when a restaurant uses a QR code for their menu. Sometimes the website itself will have a way to translate to English. Look for an Italian flag at the top of the page. 

• Finding Restaurants

  • I wish I could tell you that every place you happen upon will offer you incredible food for great prices, but sadly, that’s not the case in Italy (regardless of what others say). I recommend looking on Google Maps to see places near you, but always check the “newest” reviews! Don’t only trust how many stars a place has. Also, it’s best to eat somewhere that is located a few streets away from popular attractions. 

General Etiquette & Safety

• Greetings: A simple “Buongiorno” (Good morning) or “Buonasera” (Good evening) upon entering a shop or restaurant is always appreciated.

• Basic Phrases: Learning a few words goes a long way:

  • Grazie (Thank you)

  • Per favore (Please)

  • Mi scusi (Excuse me)

  • Tavolo per ___ (Table for ___) - You can then hold up on your hand how many people you have with you. 

  • Parla inglese? (Do you speak English?)

• Words You May Hear: Here are some common words you may hear and wonder what they mean:

  • Allora (basically the Italian word for “um” or “ok, so”)

  • Prego (has lots of meanings including “you’re welcome” and “here you go”)

  • Salve (formal version of “hello”)

  • Arrivederci (formal version of “goodbye”)

• Safety: Italy is very safe, but be aware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas, train stations, and on public transportation. Keep your valuables secure in a zipped bag worn in front of you and be mindful of your surroundings.

• Emergency Number: The universal emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance is 112 in Italy. This is a free number to dial without any prefix. An operator will connect you with the appropriate service. 

CHECK-IN AND CHILL OUT

Depending on when you arrive at your accommodation, consider leaving your luggage there and then explore the areas of Rome that are close by. 

I recommend not planning any tours, attractions nor dining experiences on your arrival day. Flight cancellations and delays happen all of the time and you don't want the added stress of feeling like you have to make it to your destination for something you previously scheduled. Instead, enjoy grabbing a bite to eat and making sure to get some well-deserved gelato. You earned it!

EXPLORE ROME 

Explore Rome's main highlights in one day on THIS Rome in a Day Tour! This comprehensive full-day tour is designed to maximize every minute, whisking you from the divine halls of the Vatican to the grit and glory of the Colosseum. With skip-the-line access, you’ll spend less time in queues and more time immersed in the art, architecture, and legends that shaped Western civilization.

Either continue exploring Rome, and/or consider experiencing one of the following:

TRAVEL TO FLORENCE

Travel to Florence (Firenze) via train from the Roma Termini to the Firenze S.M.Novella station. I personally use Omio to book my train tickets in Italy so that I have them all on one app, and I prefer the Italo trains over the Trenitalia when I have the chance and the price is right. If you use my code: mariab0t0q0m at the check-out,  you should be able to get about $11 off if you spend over $54 on your tickets. 

Depending on where your accommodations are, you may need to take a taxi. If that's the case, there is a taxi station located right next to the train station. 

FOOD & WINE TOUR

Plan for your train to arrive by the early afternoon so you can enjoy THIS food and wine tour in the evening! This award-winning evening tour isn't just a tasting; it's an experience of Tuscan culture and soul. You’ll discover 14 hand-picked specialties and 5 regional wines on this 3.5-hour culinary odyssey through Florence's most authentic district.

After the museum, explore what you'd like of Florence. Here are some of my top recommendations:

🏛️ Iconic Landmarks & Museums

• Duomo: The heart of the city. 

  • • It’s often best viewed from the outside unless you’ve pre-booked a dome climb.

• Galleria degli Uffizi: One of the world's premier art museums. Give yourself at least 3 hours here.

• Medici Riccardi Palace : Don’t skip the chapel! Remember to scan the QR code for the history behind the frescoes.

• Ponte Vecchio: Beautiful for photos. It's often better to view it from afar (like from the Ponte Santa Trinita) to appreciate the architecture without the crowds.

🧪 Science & Interactive Fun

• Museo Galileo: Great for seeing the scientific side of the Renaissance.

• Leonardo Interactive Museum: Even if it feels like it's made "for kids," the hands-on machines are fascinating for adults too. It’s a great palate cleanser after seeing so many paintings!

☕ Food, Coffee & Cocktails

• Ditta Artigianale: Hands down the best coffee in the city. Any of their locations are a safe bet for a good café latte. 

• il Mercato Centrale Firenze: 

  • • Downstairs: Fresh ingredients and local vendors.

    • Upstairs: The food court with endless options. (Go early to avoid the peak "overwhelming" rush!)

• La Ménagère: The perfect spot for a cocktail. The vibe is unbeatable—part flower shop, part bistro, part lounge.

• Vivoli: Authentic gelato. Fun fact: This is the same legendary shop you'll find at Disney Springs in Walt Disney World! 

🌿 Hidden Gems 

• Giardino delle Rose: The best place to chill with an overlook of the city. It’s usually much quieter than the nearby Piazzale Michelangelo.

• Officina Profumo - Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella: The oldest pharmacy in the world. Even if you don’t buy anything, the interior smells divine and looks like a palace.

DAY TRIP DAY

Florence is great, but the smaller cities around it are even better (in my opinion). Today, visit Siena (personally, my favorite city in all of Italy), the medieval towers of San Gimignano, and the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa on THIS amazing tour. 

Instead of worrying about public transportation (which gets super weird once you get out of the main cities), venture into the countryside with a local guide, and experience a Chianti winery for lunch and wine tasting!

When getting your tickets, I recommend the "Full Tour + Leaning Tower Tickets" so you can go up to the top of the Leaning Tower of Pisa!  Just know that children under the age of 8 are not admitted into the tower. 

TRAVEL TO VENICE

Travel to Venice (Venezia) via train from the Firenze S.M.Novella station to the Venezia S. Lucia station! Be careful because there are multiple Venice stations! The Venezia Santa Lucia station will take you onto the main island. 

From this station, you can either walk to your accommodations or take a water taxi from the station. Make sure to have plenty of cash.

Enjoy the evening by walking around the charming labyrinthof streets. Every turn holds a new surprise!

LAST FULL DAY IN ITALY

Enjoy your last full day in Italy by experiencing one of the following:

TRAVEL HOME

One of the most important things to plan is your trip to the airport. Venice is unique, which means getting to your flight can be a bit more complicated than in other cities.

• Check with your accommodations first: Many hotels and hosts can help arrange a private water taxi or transfer.

• Use Consorzio Motoscafi if they can't help: If your accommodation doesn't offer a setup, I recommend using Consorzio Motoscafi Venezia to book your transfer. You can call them 24/7 and they speak English!

• Give yourself plenty of time: Between walking to a dock, waiting for a boat, and the actual transit time, things often take longer than you'd expect.

• A Pro-Tip on Flight Times: I always recommend booking a flight later in the day on your departure day if possible. If you book a 6:00 am flight, you’ll need to leave for the airport around 3:00 am. Navigating Venice’s canals and cobblestones in the dark at that hour is mentally and physically exhausting! Save yourself the stress and aim for an afternoon departure.

Bonus Tips:

• DO NOT FORGET your waterproof shoes for Venice!

• Be prepared to visit the cathedrals by having your shoulders and knees covered. A simple scarf can help with covering your shoulders if you're visiting during the summer.

• Make your reservations as early as you can, especially at peak times (holidays and summer). 

• Bring a portable travel fan like THIS for each person traveling. It can be VERY hot in the rooms in Italy at night (even if your accommodations have a/c). My husband and I have a collapsable standing fan that we bring with us just for this reason. You do not want to sleep with a cooling towel as your blanket... and I would know... I've been there, done that. 

• Don't forget to bring and wear your sunscreen! Many places in Italy do not have much shade!

• Don't rent a car in Italy. Cities have ZTLs (Zona Traffico Limitato) in all of their major cities which will fine you if you go through them. This can result in hefty fines from the car rental company!