Overview
Italy, a country synonymous with art, history, and cuisine, is one of Europe’s most beloved travel destinations. From the ruins of ancient Rome to the canals of Venice, the vineyards of Tuscany, and the stunning Amalfi Coast, Italy offers a wealth of cultural and natural beauty. Indulge in mouth-watering pasta, pizza, and gelato, and explore iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Italy’s diverse regions promise something for every traveler, whether you’re after history, art, nature, or food.
Quick Facts
- Language: Italian (official), with regional languages like Sicilian, Sardinian, and others
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Climate: Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters
- Best Time to Travel: April to June and September to October for mild weather, fewer crowds, and great festivals
- Visa: EU nationals don’t need a visa. Other nationals may need a Schengen visa for stays longer than 90 days
- Power Plugs: Type C, F, L, 230V
- Time Zone: CET (Central European Time), UTC +1, CEST (Central European Summer Time) during daylight savings time
Where to Fly Into
Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO) is the largest and busiest airport in Italy. Other major international airports include Milan Malpensa (MXP), Venice Marco Polo (VCE), and Florence Peretola (FLR).
Budget
- Accommodation: Budget hostels range from $30-60 per night, mid-range hotels from $70-150, and luxury accommodations start at $150+ per night.
- Food: Casual meals at restaurants typically cost $10-25, while fine dining can range from $30-70 per person.
- Transport: Public transportation is affordable, with metro and bus tickets costing around $1.50-3. Long-distance trains between cities can range from $25-100 depending on the route and class.
Climate
Italy enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and warm, sunny summers. The climate varies depending on the region—northern areas are cooler, while southern regions like Sicily and Sardinia have warmer temperatures.
- Average Temperature (Celsius/Fahrenheit):
- Winter (December to February): 3°C to 12°C (37°F to 54°F)
- Summer (June to August): 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F)
- Spring/Autumn (March to May, September to November): 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)
Safety
Italy is generally a safe country for travelers, with low crime rates. Like any major tourist destination, be cautious in crowded areas to avoid pickpockets, especially in cities like Rome and Florence.
Top 10 Things to Do in Italy
- Visit the Colosseum in Rome: Explore the iconic ancient amphitheater, a testament to Rome’s imperial grandeur, and learn about gladiatorial combat.
- Admire the Leaning Tower of Pisa: One of the world’s most recognizable landmarks, this leaning marvel is a must-see for every traveler.
- Explore the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City: Discover art masterpieces by Michelangelo, Raphael, and others at the Vatican Museums, and visit the stunning St. Peter’s Basilica.
- Tour the Ruins of Pompeii: Step back in time at this ancient city, buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, and explore its remarkably well-preserved streets and buildings.
- Take a Gondola Ride in Venice: Glide through the picturesque canals of Venice in a traditional gondola, taking in the historic architecture of this unique city.
- Discover the Amalfi Coast: Drive along one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world, with dramatic cliffs, stunning beaches, and charming coastal towns.
- Visit the Duomo in Florence: Climb to the top of Florence’s Duomo for breathtaking views of the city and admire the architectural marvel that dominates the skyline.
- Tour the Tuscan Vineyards: Visit the rolling vineyards of Tuscany for wine tastings and to explore charming towns like Siena, San Gimignano, and Montepulciano.
- Explore the Islands of Sicily and Sardinia: Head south to experience the unique cultures, beaches, and ancient ruins of Italy’s islands.
- Relax in Lake Como: Surrounded by majestic mountains, Lake Como is the perfect spot for relaxation, with luxurious villas and charming lakeside towns like Bellagio.