Italy is stunning. Italy is unforgettable. Italy is a dream. But only if you survive your first espresso-fuelled day without getting scammed, sunburnt, or shamed for ordering a cappuccino at 2pm. If you’re planning your first trip to Italy, use my guide to save both your dignity and your gelato budget.

Italy, where carbs are a love language, and every alleyway a potential scene for a rom-com, is one of my favourite countries in the world. Having said that, there are two truths I think you should know: Italy is breathtaking, and it will absolutely mess with your head if you show up unprepared.

You’ll eat gelato by a Renaissance fountain and then get yelled at in a pharmacy. You’ll sip wine in golden light and then pay four euros to pee in a cafe. It’s gorgeous, it’s chaotic, and if you’re going to love it fully, you need to know a few things.

I’ve visited Italy dozens of times. I’ve dipped my toes in her lakes, tasted plenty of divine wines and attempted to eat tiramisu in every town. Starting as a 7-year-old to my current, let’s just say, more seasoned age, I’ve gathered a suitcase full of hints, tricks, and genuine “wish-I-knew-that-before” tips for first-time travellers to Italy.

This is not a checklist. It’s a lovingly irreverent dose of truth from someone who’s done Italy wrong so you don’t have to. These are the essential, actually useful, why didn’t anyone TELL me this?! kind of tips — straight from the road, the restaurant, and that one time I nearly had a breakdown at a train station.

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ITALY ESSENTIALS

WHEN | May – October for best weather, avoid peak July crowds if you can

WHERE | Rome, Florence, Venice, Sicily, and the quiet bits in between

TRANSPORT | Trains are great; driving = chaos & beauty

ETIQUETTE | Speak softly, dress well, and don’t order cappuccino after 11am

BEST FOR | Solo women, foodies, culture nerds, romantic escapists

VIBE | Renaissance drama, pasta-induced existential clarity, and espresso highs

Getting To Italy + Planning Basics

Start smart so you can focus on the important stuff. Like pasta.

Fly Into the Big Three (But Don’t Be Afraid to Think Outside the Box)

Italy has more than one front door — and some are a lot less crowded.

I’ve flown into Rome, Milan, Venice and Naples over the years — and while the big three (Rome FCO, Milan MXP/LIN, and Venice VCE) are the obvious entry points, they’re not always the easiest or most convenient.

Rome’s great for heading south (think Amalfi, Puglia and Sicily), Milan puts you close to the lakes and the Dolomites, and Venice is… well, Venice. Romantic, slightly chaotic, and home to one of the most scenic airport boat transfers you’ll ever take. You’ll cry tears of joy upon arrival, and then probably at the price of a Spritz. I bloody love Venice.

But pro Italy travellers know that you don’t sleep on the smaller airports. Bologna, Pisa, Florence, Naples, and Bari all have international access (especially from within Europe on budget carriers like Ryanair or EasyJet), and flying into them often means less crowd-induced rage and much cheaper fares.

Keep in mind that some smaller airports have limited late-night transport. If you’re landing late, budget for a taxi or stay near the airport before transferring into town. Even better, opt for a daytime arrival!

➤ PLAN IT | I always use Google Flights and Skyscanner to compare routes and to spot sneaky stopover deals that make long-hauls to Italy cheaper (and sometimes more scenic).

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You Probably Don’t Need a Visa

But your passport might screw you at immigration.

If you’re travelling on a UK, US, Australian or Canadian passport (along with many others), great news: you don’t need a visa for short stays in Italy (or anywhere else in the Schengen Area) as long as your trip is under 90 days in a 180-day period.

But here’s the part they don’t print on your boarding pass: your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your departure date, and it must have been issued within the last 10 years. That last bit has caught out many a smug traveller with a “plenty-of-time-left” passport.

There’s also a new thing coming soon: ETIAS, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System — basically the EU’s version of the US ESTA. It’s not in place yet (as of mid-2025 they’re saying late-2026), but when it launches, you’ll need to apply online before you travel and pay a small fee. If you’re reading this in the future, go check if it’s live so you don’t get turned away with a suitcase full of regrets.

✔️ If in doubt, check whether you need a visa here or via your country’s official travel site
✔️ Apply for your ETIAS (from late 2026) at the EU visa policy page
✖️ Don’t assume your passport is fine just because it “looks okay” — check the issue and expiry dates

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Pick the Right Season for the Italy You’ve Dreamed Of

July is beautiful. It’s also hell.

Italy is a country of contrasts — and the same piazza can feel like paradise or purgatory depending on when you visit.

If you want golden light, warm evenings, and my favourite time to visit, aim for late May to early June or mid-September to early October. These shoulder seasons are Italy at its best: fewer crowds, dreamy weather, and the freedom to wander without sweaty meltdowns.

July and August? Gorgeous, yes — but packed, expensive, and hot. Locals flee the cities, many small businesses close for summer holidays, and the Amalfi Coast becomes an actual catwalk of influencers and melting gelato. Gross. If this is your only window? Book early, insist on AC, and hydrate like your life depends on it.

Winter (December to February) is actually underrated — especially in the north. You’ll find festive charm, Christmas markets in places like Bolzano and Trento, and world-class skiing in the Alps and Dolomites. Just expect shorter opening hours and a whole lot of cheese.

If you’re a festival fiend, consider timing your trip for one of Italy’s best festivals:
→ Carnevale in Venice (25 Feb) – masked drama and full Marie Antoinette vibes
→ Palio di Siena (2 July/16 Aug) – bareback horse racing, medieval fanfare
→ Verona Opera Festival (June–Sept) – full Puccini under the stars
→ Umbria Jazz Festival (July) – one of Europe’s best, and in Perugia!
→ Battle of the Oranges (Feb) – it’s literal. It’s chaotic. I kind of want to go.

➤ DON’T FORGET | August 15th is Ferragosto — Italy’s peak summer holiday. Expect ghost towns inland and sardine tins at the beach

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Stay Longer if You Can

Italy isn’t a checklist. It’s a long lunch.

There’s a very special kind of chaos that comes from trying to do Rome, Florence, Venice, and the Amalfi Coast in 7 days. You can… but you’ll be sweaty, blistered and too tired to enjoy your carbonara.

Pick 2–3 bases and linger. Build in downtime for spontaneous wine stops and wandering. Some of my best memories came from ditching the schedule and saying yes to a long lunch in a tiny trattoria.

Even if you’ve only got a week, resist the FOMO. Skip something. Stay 3 nights instead of 1. You’ll enjoy a Spritz at golden hour so much more than your 5th “must-see” church of the day (unless you’re in Venice. Venice is always the exception).

➤ DON’T FORGET | Hotels and agriturismi often offer discounts for stays of 3+ nights. Another good reason to slow down.

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Icons, Detours & All the Good Bits In Between

Yes, You Should See the Colosseum. And no, you’re not basic for wanting to.

Italy’s Greatest Hits: Worth the Hype?

Cue the Renaissance remix.

You’ve seen them on postcards since forever – the Trevi Fountain, the Amalfi Coast, the Colosseum. But which of Italy’s icons are worth the hype… and which are just €15 gelato and elbows?

Here’s my Cat’s Hot Take™️ version so you can wean your list:

→ Rome: Worth it. Do all the things (Colosseum, Vatican, Trevi Fountain). Book early and bring comfy shoes.
→ Florence: Worth it. Lean into the Renaissance overload – the Duomo, David, Uffizi – and take a Tuscan day trip for air.
→ Venice: Worth it. Yes it’s crowded, yes it’s magic. Stay local, avoid the tourist traps, and ride a gondola if you can swing it.
→ Milan: Meh. Duomo and The Last Supper are fabulous, but the city’s vibe is more “corporate cool” than la dolce vita.
→ Pisa: Only if you’re passing by – the tower’s a one-trick pony.
→ Amalfi Coast: Worth it (but not in peak summer unless you’re a masochist).
→ Cinque Terre: Only if you’re committed to the Instagram aesthetic. It’s crowded and stair-heavy.

Want more tea? I’ve done all the icons (even the ones I swore I wouldn’t).
⤷ Read my full guide here: Italy’s Greatest Hits – Worth It or Overrated?

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Don’t Just Stick to the Highlights

There’s life beyond Rome, Florence, and Venice — and it tastes like truffles.

Italy isn’t just gondolas, gelato, and gladiator arenas. The side streets, hill towns, and “wait, where even is this?” moments will probably be your favourites.

→ Tuscany: Yes, Florence is a jewel, but the rest of Tuscany is chef’s kiss. Siena, Val d’Orcia, Chianti, and the tiny tufa towns (Pitigliano, Sorano, Sovana) are pure golden-hour magic.
→ Emilia-Romagna: Bologna is foodie heaven, Parma and Modena are criminally underrated, and you’ll leave smug and full.
→ The Dolomites: Jagged peaks, flower meadows, cow photobombs – it’s a different kind of Italy, and you’ll want to stay forever.
→ Puglia: Trulli houses, whitewashed towns, olive groves, and burrata so fresh it’ll ruin you.
→ Umbria: Called “the green heart of Italy” for good reason. Perugia, Spello, and Assisi feel soulful and unhurried.
→ Sicily & Sardinia: One’s fiery and volcanic, the other’s dreamy beaches and turquoise water – both pack serious personality.
→ Naples: Chaotic, glorious, and the pizza birthplace. Pair with Pompeii or a ferry to the Amalfi Coast.
→ Matera: Ancient cave dwellings meet boutique stays – it’s one of the most atmospheric towns in Italy.
→ Verona & Turin: Both are dripping with history and architecture but with far fewer crowds than Venice or Milan.

TRAVEL TIP | These places pair beautifully with the big icons. Tacking a few “detours” onto a Rome–Florence–Venice trip will show you a completely different side of Italy.

Want to know more?
⤷ THE DOLOMITES | I’ve got an entire Dolomites section on the blog — hikes, road trips, hotels, and all my hard-won logistics. You’ll want it. Trust me.

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You Can’t Just Rock Up to Major Attractions (book the David already)

Michelangelo waits for no one. And neither does the Vatican.

If you’re picturing yourself casually strolling up to the Uffizi or “just popping in” to see The Last Supper… nope. Italy’s icons sell out weeks in advance and cap visitor numbers daily. Treat them like Taylor Swift tickets: book early, or prepare to cry into your pizza in a piazza.

Book ASAP or at least 4 weeks out:
→ The Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel (Rome): Even early entry sells out fast.
→ The Colosseum & Roman Forum (Rome): Timed entry, and there’s a security queue.
→ Uffizi Gallery (Florence): Botticelli’s got fans. Don’t risk it.
→ Galleria dell’Accademia (Florence): That’s where David lives. Not the plaza.
→ The Last Supper (Milan): The room’s tiny. The slots are few. Plan ahead.
→ Pompeii + Herculaneum: Especially if you want a guided experience.
→ Boat trips on the Amalfi Coast or from Cinque Terre: Often booked out days ahead.
→ Dolomites Parking (in peak summer): Tre Cime and Lago di Braies now require admin. Ugh.

PRO TIP | Pay for skip-the-line or early access tickets. The extra €5–10 will save your sanity. Get Your Guide and/or Viator are a great place to check for this.

What you can usually wing:
→ Most churches & smaller-town museums
→ Piazzas, viewpoints & aperitivo spots
→ Restaurants (just book a day or two ahead – Michelin is a different story)
→ Local tours (book on arrival unless it’s super specific)

THE CHEAT SHEET | If it’s got a Michelangelo, a UNESCO badge, or TikTok fame, book it early. Or don’t — and enjoy the view from outside.

Want the full breakdown?
⤷ COMING SOON | What to Book Before You Go to Italy

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Overtourism is Real. Travel Thoughtfully.

Italy is not a movie set. Be the kind of tourist you’d want in your hometown.

Look, I know you aren’t out here carving your name into the Colosseum with a vape pen. You’re not the problem. But you are part of the solution.

Overtourism isn’t just a buzzword travel journalists throw around after too much espresso — it’s a genuine issue in places like Venice, Florence, Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast, where narrow streets and ancient infrastructure buckle under the weight of millions of visitors.

The ripple effect is real: locals get priced out, nature gets trashed, and the magic that drew people there in the first place quietly fades. But you don’t need a PhD in Responsible Tourism to make a difference — just a little awareness and some common sense.

Stay longer in fewer places, and spend your money locally instead of hit-and-running through a city in 12 hours. Visit hotspots in the shoulder season, or set the alarm early for that iconic piazza shot. Book tours and cooking classes with small businesses and nonnas— not the cheapest option with reviews from Chad in Kansas who thought Florence was “kinda old.” (Sorry, Chad).

Act like someone lives there — because someone does. That piazza is not a film set. That church is still sacred even if the light is perfect. If you’re travelling with someone who’s more likely to FaceTime their mates from a “quiet, sacred place,” be the one who gently suggests they don’t (photos, of course, are encouraged — just keep your reverence level higher than your ISO).

And for the love of gelato, explore beyond the obvious. Rome is eternal, but so is Lucca. Ravenna’s mosaics will make Michelangelo weep, and you’ll have them almost to yourself. Trento, Umbria, Abruzzo… let the detours be the story.

Finally, leave no trace. Take no rocks, no wildflowers, no “souvenir” bits of Roman rubble. Italy has enough missing pieces of history — the only thing you should be stealing is hearts (and maybe a recipe or two).

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Trains Are Usually the Best Way to Get Around

Unless you enjoy toll booths, ZTL fines, and parking in a panic.

I’ve done it both ways: blissfully gliding through vineyards on a €12 train ticket and white‑knuckling it down an Italian motorway wondering what the hell a telepass is. Trust me: the train is your friend, especially on your first visit.

Italy’s rail system is cheap(ish), fast and generally reliable. Trenitalia and Italo run high‑speed trains between major cities (Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan), while regional trains are slower, cheaper and packed with locals clutching baskets of suspiciously good‑smelling food. Book online or via the apps, and don’t forget to validate paper tickets on regional trains — “I didn’t know!” won’t save you from a fine.

Delays and strikes happen, but most of the time? The train is easier, greener and far less likely to make you scream at a rest stop.

➤ DON’T FORGET | Seats on popular routes (especially at weekends) can sell out — book ahead if you’re set on a time or travelling in high season.
➤ MORE INFO | The Seat61 website has literally everything you need to know (and maybe some you don’t) if you want to get really deep into your train nerd vibes.

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Driving in Italy is Beautiful. And Bonkers.

You’ll cry tears of joy on mountain roads. You might also just cry.

Driving gives you freedom — especially in the Dolomites, Tuscany and rural regions where public transport can be slow. You can hit trailheads at dawn, linger in hill towns and stop for spontaneous winery visits.

But Italian roads have their own flavour of chaos: ZTL zones (restricted areas) in city centres will happily fine you €100 for accidentally driving through. Parking is tight, signage is cryptic, and driving in cities like Rome, Florence and Naples is a hard no. Base yourself outside, park, and take the train in.

With patience, an offline map and bit of courage, driving is worth it for the corners of Italy most tourists never reach.

CAT’S TOP TIP | Always ask your accommodation about parking options before you arrive. Some places have private spots, others will guide you to a safe public lot (and some will just say “buona fortuna”, which is Italian for “sucks to be you”).

Need to hire a car? I’ve driven all over Italy (solo, with zero drama) and it’s absolutely the easiest way to make the most of your trip. I always use Discover Cars — it pulls together all the major companies so you can find the best deal without the scroll spiral.
→ Opt for full coverage and free cancellation — totally worth it
→ I usually pick Avis, Hertz or Europcar for peace of mind
⤷ MY PICK | Find a deal that doesn’t suck

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Where to Stay in Italy (Hint: Local Usually Wins)

Choose charm over chain hotels — and always check for air con.

I’ve stayed everywhere from creaky old convents to sleek boutique hotels with rooftop pools, and here’s what I’ve learned: Italy rewards those who research.

The most memorable places aren’t the big-name chains — they’re the tiny family-run B&Bs, the agriturismos tucked into hillsides, the spa hotels with views of the mountains, and the apartments with balconies covered in geraniums and a view of someone’s laundry flapping romantically in the breeze.

If you’re travelling in summer, make sure your accommodation has functioning air conditioning — not just “a fan and a prayer.” And always check the reviews for noise, stairs (those 4th-floor no-lift walk-ups are actually hell on Earth), and the shower situation.

I tend to book with Booking.com for the ease of filtering and range, but if I’m staying somewhere longer or want a more local feel, I’ll hunt down direct sites or go via Plum Guide for vetted charm.

✔️ Look for “centro storico” in the listings — it means you’re in the historic centre, but check for ZTL zones if you’re driving (unless you want your holiday souvenir to be a €90 fine and a very confusing letter in Italian).

➤ DON’T FORGET | Most Italian properties charge a city tax (usually €1–5 per night) in cash at check-in. It’s not a scam. It’s just… Italy. Always have small change on you. Italy runs on carbs, chaos, and coins.

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Culture, Chaos, and Coperto

Fake it ‘til you make it (look like you belong in Rome).

Italy Only Became Italy in 1861

If it feels like 20 little countries in a trench coat, that’s because it kind of is.

There’s a reason travelling across Italy feels like flipping between Netflix genres. One minute you’re in Alpine Austria (hi, South Tyrol), and the next you’re in a Fellini film set full of mopeds, gesticulating nonnas, and opera playing out of a Fiat Punto. That’s not just charm — it’s centuries of intense regional identity baked into the Italian DNA like so many lasagne layers.

And yet — long before Italy was a country, it was shaping the world. The Renaissance didn’t just happen here, it exploded out of places like Florence, Bologna, and Venice, fuelling revolutions in art, architecture, science and philosophy. That’s why you’re here, right? For the frescoes and facades and that statue of David that makes you question how marble can look like that.

If things still feel a little chaotic? That’s not just the traffic. Italy’s 20th century was, shall we say, dramatic. The Kingdom became a Republic after WWII, shook off fascism (ciao Mussolini), and has had more governments than espresso varieties ever since. It’s still finding its groove — just with better tailoring and significantly more gelato.

So when you wonder why trains take longer to cross regional borders, why your Roman host rolls her eyes at Milan, or why the pasta shape changes every two hours — it’s because Italy is still, at heart, a passionate patchwork. One that argues with itself constantly, but will absolutely unite to defend the correct way to cook carbonara.

You’re not just visiting a country. You’re visiting an idea that’s still evolving — with killer views, ancient grudges, and the world’s best snacks.

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Not All Beaches Are Free — or Peaceful

€20 sunbed and a screaming child, anyone?

Here’s the thing about Italian beaches: they look like paradise in photos, but that paradise often comes with a price tag — and possibly a loud game of paddleball happening very close to your towel.

Most Italian coastal towns split their beaches into two categories:

→ Lido / Stabilimento Balneare: Privately operated beach clubs where you pay for entry, a sunbed, an umbrella, and access to facilities like showers, toilets, changing cabins, and sometimes a café or bar. Prices vary wildly — from €10–15 a day in smaller towns to €40+ in fancier spots like the Amalfi Coast or Forte dei Marmi.

→ Spiaggia Libera: Free public beach. No amenities. Bring your own everything. These are often tucked between the paid sections and can get packed, especially on weekends. You might find a quiet one in lesser-known areas, but near the hotspots? It’s towel-to-towel territory.

Technically, all beaches in Italy are public — but about 90% of the coastline is controlled by private operators who lease the land during the summer months. It’s a whole industry, with rules, regulations, and the kind of beach politics that could inspire a Scorsese subplot.

If you’re planning a beach day (and you should, because even gritty Naples does a solid seaside vibe), here’s what you need to know:

→ Go early. Italians are unhurried about many things, but claiming beach real estate is not one of them. Especially true on August weekends or Ferragosto.
→ Lidos sell out. Book ahead if you’ve got your heart set on a particular place — some even let you choose your exact umbrella spot online (no, I’m not kidding).
→ Free ≠ quiet. A spiaggia libera has fewer amenities but more families, inflatable unicorns, and Bluetooth speakers blasting Italo-pop.

LOCAL TIP | In less touristy areas (like Puglia’s southern coast or parts of Sardinia), you might be able to find your own little rocky outcrop — often just as stunning and way more chilled than the beach. Pack your own snacks, bring a sarong, and pretend you’re in a shampoo commercial.

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Learn A Few Words. It’s Sexy.

English-speakers, we need to talk.

Honestly, nothing impresses Italians more than butchering their language with style.

You don’t need to recite Dante. Just knowing how to say “hello,” “please,” and “thank you” will make you look like an absolute legend compared to the guy in the singlet shouting “WHERE’S THE TOILET” in slow motion English.

Italians speak impressively good English — especially in big cities — but it’s still polite to try. Plus, the first time you get that teeny tiny head tilt and lip twitch from the waiter (you know the one) for ordering a coffee like a local, your ego will float three feet off the terrazzo.

Here’s the briefest of cheat sheets to get you through your first day
→ Buongiorno — good morning/day
→ Per favore — please
→ Grazie — thank you
→ Mi scusi — excuse me/sorry
→ Parla inglese? — Do you speak English? ← Say this one. Learn this one. It’s the one that got me through a broken ankle with a very confused Swiss pharmacist.
→ Vorrei un gelato, grazie — I’d like a gelato, thanks (arguably the only sentence you truly need. Vino is wine. You’re welcome.)

Bonus points if you roll your Rs a little. Double bonus if you don’t say “graht-see” like you just sneezed.

And look — no one’s judging. I can curse fluently in eight languages and still panic when someone says Ciao! too confidently. But there’s something delightful about making the effort. It’s like wearing real shoes to dinner: not strictly required, but wildly appreciated.

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Sunday Is Sacred (And Monday Might Be Too)

It’s called la dolce far niente, not la 24/7 convenience. Plan around the pasta coma. And museum closures.

You can plan the perfect itinerary, but if you forget what day it is in Italy, you’re screwed. Sundays are quiet. And I don’t mean “sleepy village vibe” quiet — I mean, where the hell is everyone and why is this town a ghost story kind of quiet.

Shops? Closed. Supermarkets? Maybe a couple open ‘til lunchtime if you’re lucky. Pharmacies? Only the designated guardia farmaceutica will be open — and it won’t be near you. Restaurants? If they’re not booked out with local families at lunch, they might not even be open for dinner. Welcome to Italy’s collective weekly exhale.

And just when you think you’ve cracked the code? Monday hits. And the museums are shut. And your go-to wine bar is closed. Because some businesses take both Sunday and Monday off. Because they can. Because they’re Italian. Oh, and they’re probably closed for a 2-hour lunch. Because dolce far niente is a lifestyle, not a slogan.

→ Plan your Sunday essentials in advance — buy snacks, water, wine, tampons, and train tickets the day before. Check whether that cute trattoria is actually open for dinner. Trust me.
→ Save Mondays for slower exploring. Markets, gardens, beach walks, wine tastings — things that don’t require ticket counters or opening hours.

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Coffee is a Religion (Learn the Rules)

Milk is for breakfast. Espresso is for life.

Italians drink 14 billion espressos a year, and they will side-eye you if you order a cappuccino at 3pm.

Here’s the cheat sheet:
→ Cappuccino: breakfast only. After 11am, it’s a no.
→ Un caffè: just ask for this — it’s a single shot of espresso.
→ Macchiato: espresso with a splash of milk if you’re feeling soft.
→ Stand at the bar for your coffee to avoid the “I just paid €5 to sit down” tax.

Want to blend in completely? Learn how to order like a local. I’ve got an entire Italian coffee etiquette guide here.

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Aperitivo Is the Best Hour of the Day

It’s not dinner. It’s foreplay.

If you think aperitivo is just “happy hour with snacks,” bless your little Anglo heart — but you’re missing the point. Aperitivo is a vibe. A ritual. A warm-up act for the evening ahead. It’s when locals emerge, golden hour hits, and the clink of glasses becomes the soundtrack of the street.

Traditionally, it’s a pre-dinner drink served with complimentary nibbles — think olives, crisps, or a few slices of focaccia. But in some cities (hi, Milan), aperitivo can be a full-on buffet situation. Pay €8–12 for your drink, and you’ll unlock a spread of carbs so generous you’ll question ever ordering dinner again.

What to order? The Spritz is queen — usually Aperol, sometimes Campari, occasionally Hugo. Always served in an oversized wine glass with a slice and an attitude. Not a spritz fan? Try a Negroni, Americano, or a glass of local wine (white (bianco), cold (it will be), and dry (secco) is a good move).

Aperitivo usually runs from about 6pm to 8pm, and it’s the perfect excuse to linger, people-watch, and let the day melt into the night. You don’t need to be dressed to the nines — but also, this isn’t your post-hike leggings moment either. Italians treat this as a soft launch for the evening. Time to look casually fabulous.

TOP TIP | Some places will automatically bring snacks with your drink. In others, you’ll need to ask (“C’è qualcosa da mangiare con l’aperitivo?”) or pick a bar that clearly displays a buffet. If in doubt? Follow the locals. Never follow the guy holding a laminated Aperol menu in four languages. He is not our people.

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Pizza, Pasta, Gelato: Eat Regionally, Eat Often

You want carbonara in Venice? That’s cute. But no.

One of the greatest joys of eating in Italy is how gloriously local it all is. Each town, each region, each grandmother has her own proud claim to pasta fame — and if you try to mess with it, she’ll curse your entire family line with undercooked risotto.

So forget the tourist menus and eat with geography in mind. Roman classics like carbonara, cacio e pepe, and amatriciana belong in Rome — not Lake Como. Neapolitan pizza? Naples is pizza’s spiritual home, with the oldest pizzeria and some of the top-rated pizzerias in the world. Want fresh seafood? Head to Puglia or Sicily. Craving hearty mountain food? The Dolomites have dumplings and melted cheese with your name on it. And I’m planning to visit Sardinia to try the world’s rarest pasta!

Gelato? Yes, it’s everywhere. But quality varies wildly, and the pile-it-high-like-ice-cream-cake shops are usually tourist bait. Instead, look for the good stuff: muted colours, stainless steel tubs with lids, and signs that say artigianale (artisanal). Bonus points if there’s a queue of locals and zero gummy bears in sight.

Regional food isn’t just delicious — it’s a lesson in where you are, what grows there, and how locals live. The best way to experience it? Wander through a morning market. Follow your nose to the fresh focaccia. Taste the tomatoes that make supermarket ones weep. Whether you’re picnicking, self-catering, or just collecting snacks like Pokémon, it’s all part of the adventure.

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You’ll Pay to Sit Down, Breathe, and Be Fancy

Coperto, service charges, and €8 coffee at Piazza San Marco. It’s a lifestyle.

There are invisible forces at play in Italy. The kind that can turn your €1 espresso into a €6 existential crisis — and they’re called coperto and servizio.

Here’s what you need to know:

→ Coperto is a cover charge, usually €1–3 per person, just for sitting down. It’s not a scam. It’s not optional. It’s how restaurants cover the cost of bread, tablecloths, and the fact that you’re lingering over that glass of wine like you’re starring in a Fellini film. It’ll be listed on the menu. Usually. Probably. Maybe. Sometimes.

→ Servizio is a service charge — usually 10–15%, especially in touristy areas or for larger groups. If it’s included, you don’t have to tip, but rounding up is still appreciated if the service was good (and if your waiter was a silver fox who called you “bella signorina,” it was good).

→ Al banco vs al tavolo — At the bar (al banco), your espresso is €1. Standing. Swift. Sacred. Sit down at a table (al tavolo)? That same espresso can cost double or triple, purely for the privilege of parking your butt while you sip it.

And no, they don’t bring the bill unless you ask. It’s not laziness. It’s vibes. The table is yours until you say otherwise.

Want to avoid surprises?
→ Always check the menu for coperto or servizio before you sit down
→ When in doubt, ask: “Il coperto è incluso?”
→ Embrace standing at the bar — it’s faster, cheaper, and 1000% more Italian

So yes, the espresso at that dreamy piazza café might cost €5. But you’re paying for the view, the people-watching, and the performance of it all. Sit back. Sip slowly. And remind yourself — this is the price of being fabulous in Italy.

Do I Tip in Italy?
Short answer: not really — but it’s a nice touch.

If servizio is already included (check your bill), you don’t need to leave anything else — but rounding up a euro or two for good service is still a lovely gesture. No one’s expecting 20%, and honestly, it’ll just confuse everyone and ruin the economy. (Kidding. Kind of.)

At cafés or casual spots, it’s enough to leave the coins from your change on the tray. At fancier places, 5–10% is appreciated if the service was great (especially if your waiter/waitress appreciated your attempt at Italian and brought you extra bread without asking).

LOCAL TIP | You won’t find coperto in Lazio (including Rome) — it’s banned there (bless). But they’ll often add a servizio charge instead. Because of course they will.

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Look the Part, Even When You’re Just Looking

Because in Italy, style is not a suggestion — it’s social currency.

If you’ve ever wondered why you feel like a gremlin next to Italian nonnas in full lipstick just to buy tomatoes — it’s because they care. Italians don’t just get dressed, they present themselves. Even the most casual look is deliberate: pressed linen, sharp tailoring, real shoes. Flip-flops? Only on the beach. Leggings-as-pants? Dio mio, no. (Maybe in the Dolomites. Maybe.)

But this isn’t about fashion rules. It’s about respect — for yourself, the place, and the moment. Which brings us to la passeggiata — the early evening ritual of strolling through town, arm-in-arm, gelato in hand, wearing your absolute casual-best. It’s not exercise. It’s not errands. It’s social theatre. It’s your soft-launch for the night ahead.

And yes, it’s very fun.

Whether you’re joining the crowd or just watching it go by, there are a few things to know:

→ Churches require modesty — shoulders and knees covered, even in summer. A light scarf in your bag will save you every time.
→ Shoes matter — not just for style, but cobblestones. Sandals with arch support. Always.
→ Evenings are an occasion — you don’t need to go full Milan runway, but a crisp shirt or cute dress? Very much the vibe.
→ Passeggiata starts around 6pm — it’s not a performance, but everyone’s watching. Be fabulous.

So yes, pack the scarf. Pack the good sandals. Pack the outfit that makes you stand a little taller, even if no one’s looking. Cause let’s be honest — in Italy, someone’s always looking.

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Stuff Nobody Tells You Until it’s Too Late

But I will. Because Italy: beautiful, baffling, and occasionally out to get you.

You’ll Need Coins for Toilets, Tips, and Tiny Inconveniences

Visa? Amex? Nope. That’ll be €1 in exact change, please.

Italy may have invented banks, but she’s still romantically entangled with cold hard cash. Tap-to-pay? Sometimes. Card accepted? Often. But when it comes to life’s minor transactions — toilets, tipping, tiny tourist taxes — coins are queen.

→ Public toilets often cost between €0.50–€1, and you’ll need exact change. Train stations, rest stops, beaches — carry coins or risk a very uncomfortable wait.
→ Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s polite. Round up your bill at cafés, leave €1–2 at trattorias, and maybe a fiver for stellar service at fancy joints. Bellhops and taxi drivers appreciate a couple of coins too.
→ Tourist taxes (called tassa di soggiorno) are due in cash at many hotels — even the swanky ones. It’s usually €1–5 per night, isn’t included in your online booking, and is often required in cash.

Cash is especially handy in smaller towns, local markets, and old-school gelaterias where card machines still don’t get invited to the party. And while many places do take cards, they might roll their eyes about it, especially if it’s Amex. Or foreign. Or contactless. Or anything newer than 2007.

PRO MOVE | Get yourself a Wise Multicurrency card — it lets you spend like a local, dodge nasty conversion fees, and withdraw up to a set amount for free. Plus, it’s the one card I’ve found that consistently works at those rogue Italian ATMs with trust issues.

→ Avoid Euronet machines like they’re your ex at a wine bar — they charge sky-high fees and terrible exchange rates.
→ Instead, look for ATMs attached to actual banks (bancomat), ideally during daylight hours (because ATM-skimming is still a thing).
→ Withdraw a mix of notes and break them at cafés or markets so you’ve always got a stash of €1s. You’ll thank me the first time your bladder is on the line.

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Bring a Water Bottle. Use the Fountains.

The aqueducts are still doing the work — Rome’s tap water is glorious.

If you’re buying plastic water bottles in Italy, I’m not mad. I’m just disappointed. Because this country has been quenching thirst with style since the Roman Empire, and those ancient aqueducts? Still showing off.

→ Tap water is safe, delicious, and often comes straight from the mountains — especially in cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan.
→ Look for public fountains, often marked acqua potabile (drinkable water). Rome alone has more than 1,500 — the iconic nasoni spouts might look old-school, but the water is top-tier.
→ Don’t see a sign? If it says non potabile, don’t drink it — otherwise, you’re good to go.

Bring a reusable bottle (or pick one up locally as a souvenir-slash-act-of-eco-repentance) and top up throughout the day. It’s free, it’s fresh, and it’s one less €2 bottle of mineral water you didn’t need to buy from a street vendor.

LOCAL TIP | At many fountains, you can plug the bottom spout with your finger and the water will arc out of a hidden hole in the top — built-in water fountain magic, Roman style.

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Getting Online in Italy

SIM cards, eSIMs, and why your Airbnb Wi-Fi might suck.

Yes, Italy has internet. Yes, it works. Sometimes.

You’ll find blazing speeds in Milan and buffering hell in the Tuscan countryside — and Airbnb listings with “Fast Wi-Fi” might mean “You can load Instagram if no one else in the building breathes.” If you’re planning to work remotely (or just want to Google “Is this gelato queue worth it?”), come prepared.

→ eSIMs are the easiest option — install before you go and activate on arrival. I use one from Airalo.
→ Local SIMs are cheap and plentiful — TIM, Vodafone, and WindTre all have decent tourist plans. Bring your passport and some patience.
→ Wi-Fi isn’t always free in cafés — and some spots still hand out paper passwords like it’s 2007.
→ Mobile data is usually reliable, but mountainous or rural areas can be patchy. Download your Google Maps offline. Always.

TOP TIP | Many train stations and public squares have free Wi-Fi — but they’ll usually ask you to register. Use a burner email unless you want Trenitalia sending you train deals for eternity.

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Don’t Forget Your Plug

Italy has different sockets. And yes, voltage matters.

Obviously, as a travel blogger, my entire existence hinges on keeping things charged and connected. If my camera dies mid-sunset or the Wi-Fi drops during an Insta binge, it’s a crisis. While you’re probably not quite as high maintenance, you do need to know a few things if you’d like to avoid blowing up your hairdryer or crying over a dead phone.

→ Italy runs on 230V, just like most of Europe/Aus/NZ. If you’re coming from the US, Japan, or anywhere else that uses 100–120V, pause before plugging in your curling iron — or you might end up with a puff of smoke and a souvenir-sized meltdown.
→ Laptops, phones, and tablets usually play nice, since most chargers are dual voltage. Look for “INPUT: 100–240V, 50/60Hz” on your plug. If it says that, you’re golden.
→ Sockets are where things get spicy. Italy uses three types: C, F, and L. Thankfully, the humble two-pin Type C plug fits them all, like the universal adapter it was born to be.
→ I swear by my Skross universal adapter — it handles 90% of the world and hasn’t failed me yet, even in a 200-year-old Tuscan villa with questionable wiring. 11/10 would recommend.

LOCAL TIP | Bring cash if you’re planning to eat or stay at one of the rifugi. Although they all theoretically accept credit cards, the connection can be variable up in the mountains and their machines may not be working.

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Italy Is Safe, But Don’t Do Dumb Shit Just Because You’re on Holiday

The danger isn’t the mafia — it’s the €10 gelato scam and your own bad decisions

Italy is one of the safest countries I’ve travelled solo in — and I say that as a woman who’s walked home from aperitivo at midnight more times than I can count. Violent crime is low, people are generally kind, and the biggest danger you’ll likely face is a cobblestone street after spritz ‘o’ clock (I do these things so you don’t have to).

That said, you are still in a foreign country. And if you wouldn’t flash your cash, leave your phone on the table, or follow a stranger down a dark alley at home don’t do it here. Tourist areas attract petty crime, and pickpocketing is an art form in places like Rome, Florence, Naples, and crowded train stations.

Be especially cautious around:
→ The Spanish Steps in Rome
→ Milan Central Station
→ Naples’ historic centre
→ Any metro or bus during rush hour

Oh, and watch for scams: the “friendship bracelet” hustle, fake petitions, taxi drivers who “forget” to turn on the meter, or (worst of all) gelato that costs more than your aperitivo. Trust your instincts. If it feels off, it probably is.

That said, don’t let fear ruin your trip. I’ve always felt safe, and so do thousands of other solo women in Italy. Just travel like you’ve got a brain and a backup plan.

✔️ Keep your valuables zipped up and don’t sling your bag on the back of a chair
✔️ Always agree on taxi prices or make sure the meter is running
✔️ Travel insurance isn’t optional — it’s your get-out-of-hell-free card

➤ DON’T FORGET | The emergency number in Italy is 112 (works EU-wide). Save it in your phone, even if you never need it.

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What If You Need a Doctor or Pharmacy?

Don’t panic. But do pack Imodium.

Fun fact: I am a doctor — and yet even I have found myself in an Italian farmacia (pharmacy), trying to explain an upset stomach using interpretive dance and the universal expression for “oh god, not again.”

The good news? Italy has fantastic healthcare, and pharmacies are your best friend for all things minor and mildly mortifying. Walk in, point at the offending body part (or look vaguely tragic), and they’ll usually sort you out without needing to see a doctor. You don’t need a prescription for basic things like antihistamines, cold meds, or — yes — Imodium.

For anything more serious, especially if you need an English-speaking doctor, most cities have tourist-friendly clinics. You’ll likely need to pay upfront, but if you’ve got decent travel insurance (which you absolutely should), you can claim it back. Consider it your “get-out-of-awkward-health-crisis” card.

Just don’t do that thing where you land, feel fine, and assume you’ll never get sick. Italy is wonderful, but new food, jet lag, and public transport germs don’t discriminate — pack the basics and save yourself some drama.

✔️ Stock your first aid kit before you go — brand names can differ, and not everything is OTC
✔️ Keep your insurance details handy (in both digital and paper form, because tech likes to fail at the worst moments)
✖️ Don’t assume the pharmacist speaks English — they may, but otherwise Google Translate is your friend

➤ DON’T FORGET | If you take regular medication, bring enough for your trip and a copy of your script from home. Don’t assume you can get your usual meds in a foreign country. And yes, this is me speaking from personal experience.

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