A Traveler’s Guide to Italy
Having spent nearly half of my life overseas, I’ve explored 18 countries across four continents. Traveling has never been just about ticking destinations off a list—it’s about the experiences, the people, and the cultures I’ve encountered along the way. Every journey adds a new chapter, shaping who I am as a person and as a blogger.
Italian; 'Hello' is 'Ciao'
Euro (EUR)
Type C / F
Predominantly Christianity (Roman Catholicism)
Rome
Mediterranean; varies by region.
Avas Ride and Uber
Italy is among the most visited countries in Europe, ranking third after France and Spain, according to Statista.
Italy recorded 57.25 million international tourist arrivals in 2023.
Italy has a rich history that dates back to the Roman Empire and has influenced architecture and culture for centuries.
Iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum in Rome, the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, and the Grand Canal in Venice, Lake Como in Varenna attract millions of visitors each year.
Italy is home to some of the world’s best pizza, including Pepe in Grani in Caiazzo, a charming town about an hour from Naples, surrounded by stunning countryside.
Every corner of Italy whispers a story, waiting to be discovered.
Train travel in Italy is one of the most convenient ways to explore the country.
Italy has two main high-speed train services: Trenitalia and Italo, both offering fast and comfortable travel across the country.
The best way to check schedules, compare fares, and book tickets is online in advance.
I booked my Rome to Venice on Italo train ticket three weeks ahead, and it saved me a lot!
On the day of travel, when I checked Italo train ticket prices at the Roma Termini station, they had doubled.
Booking early is the key to saving money on Italian trains!
I’ve noticed that Trenitalia is slightly more expensive than Italo, but it also offers a more luxurious travel experience.
When I traveled from Venice to Milan with Trenitalia, I found the seats more spacious, and the overall service more premium.
If comfort is a priority, Trenitalia is a great choice!
Italy’s major train stations that connect travellers across the country include:
Rome: Roma Termini
Milan: Milano Centrale
Venice: Venezia Santa Lucia
Florence: Firenze S.M. Novella
For budget-conscious travellers, winter (December to March) is the cheapest time to visit Italy.
The colder weather keeps most tourists away, leading to lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds at popular attractions.
The best time to visit Italy is in May, June, September, and October when the weather is pleasant. However, it is also the busiest and most expensive time to travel.
Italy is part of the Schengen Area, which includes 29 European countries.
The European Union (EU) has a visa-free agreement with 61 non-EU countries, allowing travelers to enter the Schengen Area for short stays without needing a visa.
Countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, and Singapore benefit from visa-free travel to the EU.
Starting in 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries like the US, UK, Australia, and Canada will need to apply for the ETIAS visa waiver before visiting Europe, similar to the US ESTA system.”
For more details, readers can refer to the full blog post about the ETIAS Visa Waiver for Europe.
However, most other travellers, including those from India, China, Pakistan, the Philippines, and South Africa, will need to apply for a Schengen visa if they plan to stay for up to 90 days.
You can stay connected in Italy with an eSIM, but it’s best to purchase one before your trip.
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Italy has one of the most convenient and best train networks in Europe.
Trains operated by Trenitalia and Italo provide efficient connections between major destinations, making travel fast, comfortable, and scenic.
Check out my detailed guide on how to travel Italy by train for tips, routes, and my top recommendations!
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Just like anywhere else, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings in Italy. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas where pickpocketing can happen.
Overall, Italy is a safe and welcoming country, but a little caution goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip!
Italy’s climate varies significantly by region:
The most budget-friendly time to visit Italy is winter. Even during the low season, cities like Venice and Rome tend to be on the expensive side, with accommodation and dining costs remaining high year-round.
That said, nothing compares to summer in Italy—yes, it’s busy, and prices for flights and accommodations skyrocket, but the vibrant energy, warm beaches, and lively piazzas make it absolutely worth it!
These price estimates are for reference and can vary depending on the city, season, and type of accommodation or dining experience.
Budget accommodations start around €30 ($32 USD) per night, while mid-range hotels average €80-€200 ($85-$215 USD). Dining costs can range from €10 for casual meals to over €50 for fine dining experiences.
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