Italy is a must-see travel destination that is ranked in the top 10 most popular tourist spots, with over 60 million people visiting each year. If you are ready to check Italy off your travel bucket list, get ready for an exciting adventure that you won’t soon forget. The country is known for its beauty – which is why it has earned the nickname Bel Paese (Italian beautiful country) – and history, there is plenty Italy has to offer. Before you jet off to Europe, review this travel guide for everything you need to know from luggage storage in Napoli Centrale to what to enjoy along the Italian Riviera.
Facts About Italy for Tourists
Stay prepared for your Italian vacation with these facts about the country.
- Passport/Visa: You will need a passport that will be valid for at least 6 months after your departure date to travel internationally. If you need a visa, US citizens can get a free 90-day visa upon arrival.
- Currency: Euros (EUR)
- Power Voltage: 220V at 50 Hz
- Language: Italian is the primary local language but English is widely spoken.
- Climate: Italy is predominantly a Mediterranean climate with mild, sometimes rainy winters and sunny, hot, and dry summers.
Best Times to Visit
The best times to visit Italy is during the US spring and fall months which helps you avoid extreme weather climates. April through June and September through October are the best times of the year to travel to the country. Peak season in Italy is July and August, so it is going to be very crowded during those times. Traveling outside during those months will help you avoid crowds and extreme summer heat.
If you are looking to enjoy Northern Italy mountain activities, the fall and winter months are the best times to travel. Tourism is not too crowded during this time of year.
Getting Around Italy
As you navigate Italy, here are the best transportation tips.
- Air Travel: Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport is the largest airport in the country and offers the most international flight options. Flying into Fiumicino from the US will be the best way to get flights where you need across Italy (as well as other destinations in Europe). Malpensa International Airport is the second most popular airport in Italy and is located close to Milan.
- Trains: The fastest way to get around Italy is by train, which is fairly inexpensive. You can travel to both major cities and small regions. Train stations are also convenient places to store luggage if needed. Luggage storage in Napoli Centrale, for example, will be useful if you are traveling through Naples.
- Buses and Taxis: For shorter trips or when navigating around a large city, buses and taxis are convenient options. For taxis, note that the meter starts when you call, not when you enter.
- Rental Car: While you do have the option to rent a car in Italy, you will need a US driver’s license as well as an International driver’s license. You should also be well aware of the road rules in the country before using a car there.
Planning Your Italian Adventures
There are lots of must-see places to see and do in Italy. Choose whichever adventure speaks to your heart and map it out on your Italy itinerary. Below are a few places that are well worth a stop.
- Mount Etna: For adventure-seekers, hike Italy’s highest volcano.
- Leaning Tower of Pisa: One of Italy’s most popular landmarks is something you certainly don’t want to miss.
- Vatican City: There are lots of museums in this area of Rome and it’s quite beautiful. Even if you aren’t religious or a history buff, you will be in awe of it.
- Italian Riviera: You could easily spend an entire week at the Italian Riviera hiking, eating, lying on the beach, and strolling the beautiful landscape. You will enjoy true Italian luxury in this section of the country.
- Rome villages: While Rome affords plenty of adventures, don’t forget to venture off the beaten path on the outskirts of the city. The villages close to Rome showcase true Italian history that will leave you feeling like a local.
- The Colosseum: A popular destination for historians and artists alike, the Colosseum must be a stop on your vacation. You will be in awe of the ancient structure.
Conclusion
There are so many wonderful ways to spend your vacation in Italy and no matter what you choose, it will be a vacation that will live in your memory forever. Plan your trip out thoroughly so you are sure not to miss anything.
