italy travel history

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Italy — History and Culture

Italy’s history and culture are entwined with its ancient heritage, and all Italians are immensely proud of their country and its amazing past. A love of music, art, good food and great wine is born into every native, and the enjoyment of life’s finer things is compulsory. Much of the country’s rural regions still have a traditional lifestyle and even the modernity of the great cities is touched by the iconic eras predating the present.

The myth goes that the twins Romulus and Remus founded Rome in 753 BC, although the expansion of Rome and its Imperial beginnings really date back around 350 BC with the conquest of the Etruscans, a former Mediterranean power. The empire dominated all of Western Europe for over 800 years until its fall in 475 AD, after which Italy became a confusion of numerous city-states for most of the following millennium.

Ancient Rome’s golden days began after the conquests of Carthage and the Macedonian empires, with a fusion between the Hellenistic and Roman cultures bringing a cosmopolitan ethos to the previously rural Roman elite. By the dying years of the pre-Christian era Rome had consolidated its position as a major empire and had few foes. The zenith of Italian civilization began with the election of Augustus Caesar, now accepted as the official beginning of the great empire and the birth of Roman literature. Iconic poets such as Horace, Virgil and Ovid wrote the texts still regarded as ‘the classics’ today.

Augustus’s enlightened rule brought the empire its Pax Romana, a 200-year period of peace and prosperity, during which Rome did little to expand further, although Britain was conquered by order of Emperor Claudius in 47 AD. By 395 AD, the Roman Empire was divided into the East and West, with the western sector facing increasing barbarian invasions and by 476 AD, made defunct. Shortly afterwards, Italy fell to the forces of Attila the Hun, but was reestablished by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian in 553, a relief which only lasted 19 years.

During the medieval period and the Middle Ages, Italy was a confusion of city states including the Papal State, with destabilizing internal conflict and invasions by various European raiders. Venice, Florence and Genoa became great powers, with their wealth spurring the magnificence of Renaissance artists to ever greater heights. The present day museums in Italy hold the majority of works by masters such as Leonardo, Michelangelo and Rafael, and their genius was employed in many famous architectural designs.

From the late 16th century, Italy was divided between European powers until 1796 when Napoleon’s army arrived in the north to break the stranglehold of the Austrians around Milan and Sardinia. The French were successful and Napoleonic Italy became a reality from 1800 to 1814. In 1815, the Pope excommunicated the French uprising, who was immediately arrested and sent back across the border after which the Austrians took over once more.

After centuries of unrest, the 19th century saw radicals committed to a united Italy, led by Garibaldi. In 1848, revolutionary riots broke out, followed by 18 months of violence and drama until 1859. There was a year-long war involving Napoleon III against Austrian attempts to regain their position of power. The final steps to unity came in 1860-1861 under King Victor Emmanuel I’s reign.

Between 1914 and 1918, WWI had little effect on the country, but WWII was a very different story due to the rise of the Fascist dictator Benito Mussolini, who dragged Italy into the conflict in 1940 in support of Nazi Germany. Italy became a theater of war when Allied forces arrived in Sicily and began making their way up the mainland in spite of fierce resistance from the German army. In 1943, Mussolini changed sides, signing an armistice with the Allies and was promptly imprisoned. He and his mistress were executed by Italian partisans in April 1945.

Post-war Italy sang to a different tune, that of rejection of fascism and acceptance of itself as a republic, which spurred an economic boom between 1950 and 1973. Industry flourished and energy and transportation infrastructure were put in place, although from 1970 to 1980 social conflict including terrorism threatened prosperity. The Second Republic, led in 2008 by Silvio Berlusconi, is now a center of controversy over its fragile economic status.

The rich culture of Italy formed the heart of the Western World from the days of Imperial Rome up to the end of the 16th century. The Roman Empire itself, the emergence of the Roman Catholic Church, the cultural flowering of the Renaissance era and the birth of Humanism all exerted strong influence across the globe. Nowadays, Italian culture is best represented in art, music, fashion and cuisine, all existing in harmony with great icons of the past, many of which are now UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Italy is home to more than 50% of the world’s art treasures, and the works of its great composers over the ages are still much-loved by the majority of locals. Music, whether classical or modern, is an integral part of life, unsurprisingly in a country which invented the musical stave, and the piano and opera have given birth to many of the world’s greatest composers, conductors and singers. In modern times, Italy is credited with developing progressive rock, italo-disco and experimental rock.

Theater performances have a long heritage here, based on the tradition of traveling players and their Canovaccio comedies. Specific regions have folk music traditions, for example, the famous Neapolitan dialect songs made famous in the early to mid 19th century by Enrico Caruso and Mario Lanza. Visitors to Naples will still hear ancient classics such as Torno al Suriento floating out from streetside bars and eateries.

The family heads the social structure in Italy, with entire groups living under one roof in the more traditional southern region. Emotional and financial support is a priority, and religion still plays a crucial influence in most communities. Bella Figura – a concept of presenting a good image in both dress and personal style – is important, and the Italians are highly fashion conscious. Hierarchy is another dominating belief and relates to age, professional success and familial ties.

One of the delights of an Italian vacation is the spontaneous nature of Italians in general, making them the perfect hosts on any occasion. Arriving a few minutes late for a dinner is the norm, as is bringing wine or chocolates as a small gift. Italians are experts in making guests feel welcome on any occasion, and are family-friendly in the extreme.

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History and Culture

Italian Money, Currency, Tax Free Refunds and ATMs in Italy

Explore the History of Italy’s Great Culture

Travelers with a passion for the past and a desire to explore one of the most ancient and enduring cultures of the world will find Italy private tours delight at every turn. This stunning country, richly diverse in its geography, has been inhabited since ancient times. It is widely believed the first settlers were Indo-European people who migrated to Italy’s shores beginning around 2000 B.C. with continued migrations until about 1000 B.C. These migrations were followed by the rise of the Etruscan civilization, which dominated the country from the 9 th  century B.C. until the ancient Romans overthrew them in the 3 rd  century B.C.

The  Roman Empire grew in a steady fashion  with all of Italy south of Cisalpine Gaul under its leadership by 264 B.C. For the next seven centuries, the history of Italy is very much the history of Rome itself. The empire endured and made its mark upon the world into the 4 th  and 5 th  centuries when fierce barbarian invasions ushered in the collapse of the western Roman Empire.

From about 800 A.D. on, Italy’s history is one of strife during which Holy Roman Emperors, Roman Catholic Popes, Saracens, Normans and others all vided to control different regions of the peninsula. City states, such as Genoa and Venice, rose in prominence with their political and commercial power immense. Many smaller principalities also flourished well into the late medieval period. While Italy was most assuredly politically fragmented throughout many centuries, it still rose to become the cultural center of the entire Western World from the 13 th  through 16 th  centuries.

War of Spanish Succession gave birth to a split in the country when in 1713 Sardinia, Naples and Milan were given over to Austria’s powerful Hapsburgs. A tug-of-war continued with Austria giving up some of its  Italian territories . Napoleon managed to unify Italy after 1800 and even crowned himself king in 1805. The Congress of Vienna in 1815, however, once again handed over control of a fractured Italy to the powers in Austria. Italians rallied, but their armies were crushed by the Austrians in 1820-21 and again in 1831. Giuseppe Mazzini came on the scene in the 1830s and gave birth to the Risorgimento, or Resurrection. Mazzini’s efforts laid the foundations upon which Italian unity was built upon. The House of Savoy was looked upon for leadership by Italian patriots who sought guidance.

Sardinia’s prime minister, Count Camille di Cavour (1810-1861), joined forces with France and England in the Crimean War. Di Cavour, known as the architect of a unified Italy, also helped France in its 1859 war against Austria, enabling Italy to claim Lombardy. By 1860, Sardinia’s boundaries grew with the addition of Romagna, Tuscany, Parma and Modena, which all joined by plebiscite. Sicily and Naples were conquered by Giuseppe Garibaldi in 1860 and quickly turned over to Sardinia. In 1861, Victor Emmanuel II, Sardinia’s king, was named king of all of Italy. With the annexation of Venetia in 1866 and the 1870 addition of papal Rome, the goal of a unified Italy was achieved.

While Italy enjoyed peace in its unification, sabers rattled in the world around it. The outbreak of World War I saw Italy declaring neutrality based upon Germany’s decision to launch an offensive war. By 1915, however, Italy could no longer stay on the sidelines. It entered the war on the side of the Allies, but found itself gaining far less territory than imagined in the postwar settlement. Capitalizing on the discontent, Benito (II Duce) Mussolini, a former socialist, organized the Fascist Party in 1919. The party’s intent was to “rescue Italy from Bolshevism.” Mussolini and his Black Shirts marched on Rome and were able to safely place him in power as Italy’s prime minister on Oct. 28, 1922. Mussolini sought to transform Italy into a dictatorship and pushed forth a fierce expansionist policy that gave rise to the invasion and annexation of Ethiopia in 1935. By 1936, Mussolini aligned Italy with the Axis powers and Adolf Hitler.

Mussolini’s reign crumbled with the Allies’ invasion of Italy in 1943. Partisans saw to his execution at Dongo on  Lake Como

on April 28, 1945. The Sept. 3, 1943, signing of the armistice with the Allies saw Italy enter World War II a second time – this time on the side of the Allies, fighting against Germany. Monarchy was rejected in 1946, paving the way for the birth of a republic. In September 1947, the peace treaty signed to restore unification of Italy also witnessed the country’s severing of claims over territories in Greece and Ethiopia. The country also gave up the Dodecanese islands to Greece and five rather small territories in the Alps to France. The Trieste area was ultimately transferred to Italy and Yugoslavia in 1954.

Since reclaiming its unification and establishing a republic, Italy has enjoyed peace and prosperity. An integral member of NATO and the European Union, the country thrives today, owing its roots to the very first Indo-European settlers who first step foot upon its shores around 2000 B.C.

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• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1.1 Prehistory
• 4.1.2 The Roman Empire
• 4.1.3 From independent city states to unification
• 4.1.4 The Kingdom of Italy
• 4.1.5 Italian Republic
• 4.2 Climate
• 4.4 Holidays
• 4.5 Tourist information
• 6.1.1 Prominent airlines in Italy
• 6.2 By train
• 6.5 By boat
• 7.1.1 Train types
• 7.1.2 Getting tickets
• 7.1.3 Rules
• 7.2 By plane
• 7.4.1 Local
• 7.4.2 Intercity
• 7.5 By e-hailing
• 7.6 By thumb
• 7.7 By boat
• 8.1 Monuments
• 8.2 Islands
• 8.3 Museums
• 9.1 Beaches and swimming
• 9.2 Classical music
• 9.3 Visit the vineyards
• 9.4 Cycling tours
• 9.5 Sailing
• 9.6 Spectator sports
• 10.2 Tipping
• 10.3 Shopping
• 10.4 Opening hours
• 10.5 What to buy
• 10.6 How to buy
• 11.1 Dining Etiquette
• 11.2 Cuisine
• 11.3.1 Pizza
• 11.3.2 Cheese and sausages
• 11.4 Restaurants and bars
• 11.5 Gastronomia
• 12.3 Other drinks
• 12.4 Coffee
• 14.1 Electricity
• 16.1 Overview
• 16.2 Important pointers
• 17.2 Tourist scams
• 17.3 Racism
• 17.4 Road safety
• 19.1 Culture and identity
• 19.2 Clothing
• 19.3 Sensitive issues
• 19.4 LGBT rights in Italy
• 19.5 Religion
• 20.1.1 WiFi
• 20.1.2 Mobile
• 20.2.1 Mobile

Italy ( Italian : Italia ) was once the core of the mighty Roman Empire , and the cradle of the Renaissance . Along with Greece , it is regarded as the "birthplace" of Western culture, and it is also home to the greatest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world, including high art and monuments.

Italy is famous for its delicious cuisine , trendy designer brands, luxury sports cars and motorcycles, diverse regional cultures and dialects, as well as for its various landscapes from the seas to the Alps and Apennines, which makes reason for its nickname Il Bel Paese (the Beautiful Country).

In the shape of a boot, the country continues to be one of the world's most influential countries. It is a member of the European Union and shares borders with France , Switzerland , Austria , and Slovenia . There are thousands of things to do in this mesmerising country, and if you want to experience what living the life feels like, you're bound to find it in Italy.

San Marino and the Vatican City are two microstates surrounded by Italy. As they use the euro, the Italian language and have no border controls , they are easy to visit.

There are hundreds of Italian cities. Here are nine of its most famous:

• 41.9 12.5 1 Rome ( Roma ) — The Eternal City has shrugged off sacks and fascists, urban planning disasters and traffic snarls and is as impressive to the visitor now as two thousand years ago
• 44.5075 11.351389 2 Bologna — one of the world's great university cities that is filled with history, culture, technology and food
• 43.783333 11.25 3 Florence ( Firenze ) — the Renaissance city known for its architecture and art that had a major impact throughout the world
• 44.411111 8.932778 4 Genoa ( Genova ) — an important medieval maritime republic; it's a port city with art and architecture
• 45.466667 9.183333 5 Milan ( Milano ) — one of the main fashion cities of the world, but also Italy's most important centre of trade and business
• 40.845 14.258333 6 Naples ( Napoli ) — one of the oldest cities of the Western world, with a historic city centre that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• 43.716667 10.4 7 Pisa — one of the medieval maritime republics, it is home to the famed Leaning Tower of Pisa
• 45.066667 7.7 8 Turin ( Torino ) — a well-known industrial city, home of FIAT, other automobiles and the aerospace industry. Le Corbusier defined Turin as "the city with the most beautiful natural location in the world"
• 45.4375 12.335833 9 Venice ( Venezia ) — one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, known for its history, art, and of course its world-famous canals

Other destinations

• 40.633333 14.6 1 Amalfi Coast ( Costiera Amalfitana ) — stunningly beautiful rocky coastline, so popular that private cars are banned in the summer months
• 40.55 14.233333 2 Capri — the famed island in the Bay of Naples, which was a favored resort of the Roman emperors
• 44.119444 9.716667 3 Cinque Terre — five tiny, scenic, towns strung along the steep vineyard-laced coast of Liguria
• 46.505556 9.330278 4 Italian Alps ( Alpi ) — some of the most beautiful mountains in Europe, including Mont Blanc and Mount Rosa
• 46 9.266667 5 Lake Como ( Lago di Como ) — its atmosphere has been appreciated for its beauty and uniqueness since Roman times
• 45.633333 10.666667 6 Lake Garda ( Lago di Garda ) — a beautiful lake in Northern Italy surrounded by many small villages
• 40.75 14.486111 7 Pompeii and 40.806 14.3482 8 Herculaneum ( Ercolano ) — two suburbs of Naples covered by an eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in AD 79, now excavated to reveal life as it was in Roman times
• 37.852222 15.291944 9 Taormina — a charming hillside town on the east coast of Sicily
• 40.816667 14.433333 10 Vesuvius ( Monte Vesuvio ) — the famous volcano with a stunning view of the Bay of Naples

Italy, officially the Italian Republic ( Repubblica italiana ), is largely a peninsula situated on the Mediterranean Sea, bordering France , Switzerland , Austria , and Slovenia in the north. The boot-shaped country is surrounded by the Ligurian Sea, the Sardinian Sea and the Tyrrhenian Sea in the west, the Sicilian and Ionian Sea in the South, and Adriatic Sea in the East. Italian is the official language spoken by the majority of the population, but as you travel throughout the country, you will find there are distinct Italian dialects corresponding to the region you are in. Italy has a diverse landscape, but it is primarily mountainous, with the Alps and the Apennines. Italy has two major islands: Sardinia , off the west coast of Italy, and Sicily , just off the southern tip (the "toe") of the boot. Italy has a population of around 60 million. The capital is Rome .

There have been humans on the Italian peninsula for at least 200,000 years. The Etruscan civilization lasted from prehistory to the 2nd century BC. The Etruscans flourished in the centre and north of what is now Italy, particularly in areas now represented by northern Lazio , Umbria and Tuscany . Rome was dominated by the Etruscans until the Romans sacked the nearby Etruscan city of Veii in 396 BC. In the 8th and 7th centuries BC, Greek colonies were established in Sicily and the southern part of the Italy and the Etruscan culture rapidly became influenced by that of Greece. This is well illustrated at some excellent Etruscan museums; Etruscan burial sites are also well worth visiting.

The Roman Empire

Ancient Rome was at first a small village founded around the 8th century BC. In time, it grew into one of the most powerful empires the world has ever seen, surrounding the whole Mediterranean, extending from the northern coast of Africa to as far north as the southern part of Scotland . The Roman Empire greatly influenced Western civilisation. Its steady decline began in the 2nd century AD, with a "crisis" in the 3rd century AD that hit particularly hard, bringing leaders who mostly relied on the military and were often deposed in just a few years of rule. The empire finally broke into two parts in 395 AD: the Western Roman Empire with its capital in Rome , and the Eastern Roman Empire or Byzantine Empire with its capital in Constantinople . The western part, under attack from the Goths, Vandals, Huns and numerous other groups finally collapsed in the late 5th century AD, leaving the Italian peninsula divided. After this, Rome passed into the so-called Dark Ages. The city itself was sacked by Saracens in 846. Rome went from a city of 1,000,000 people in the first century AD to barely a dot on the map by the seventh century AD, and the stones of its ancient monuments were removed to build new buildings.

From independent city states to unification

Following the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the Italian peninsula was divided into many independent city states, and remained so for centuries thereafter.

In the 6th century AD, a Germanic tribe, the Lombards, arrived from the north; hence the present-day northern region of Lombardy . The balance of power between them and other invaders such as the Byzantines, Arabs, and Muslim Saracens, with the Holy Roman Empire and the Papacy meant that it was not possible to unify Italy, although later arrivals such as the Carolingians and the Hohenstaufens managed to impose some control. Thus Northern Italy was under the tenuous control of dynasties from what is now Germany and many cities vying for independence challenged the rule of both pope and emperor, siding with either against the other from time to time. In the south, the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, a result of unification of the Kingdom of Sicily with the Kingdom of Naples in 1442, had its capital in Naples. In the north, Italy remained a collection of small independent city states and kingdoms until the 19th century. One of the most influential city states was the Republic of Venice , considered one of the most progressive of its time. The first public opera house opened there in 1637, and for the first time allowed paying members of the general public to enjoy what had been court entertainment reserved for the aristocracy, thus allowing the arts to flourish. Italians turned to strongmen to bring order to the cities, leading to the development of dynasties such as the Medici in Florence . Their patronage of the arts allowed Florence to become the birthplace of the Renaissance and helped to enable men of genius such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo to emerge. Rome and its surrounding areas became the Papal States, where the Pope had both religious and political authority.

From 1494 onwards, Italy suffered a series of invasions by the Austrians, the French and the Spanish; the latter ultimately emerged victorious.

After Vasco da Gama sailed the Cape Route around Africa, and Christopher Columbus (who was from Genoa but working for the king and queen of Spain) sailed to the Americas , much of the Mediterranean commerce — especially with Asia through the Middle East — was displaced, making Italian merchants less important. While foreign empires such as Austria , France and Spain came to dominate the Italian peninsula, it remained a centre of the fine arts, and was from the 17th to the 19th century the main destination for the Grand Tour of wealthy young people from Britain and Europe.

The Kingdom of Sardinia began to unify Italy in 1815. Giuseppe Garibaldi led a drive for unification in southern Italy, while the north wanted to establish a united Italian state under its rule. The northern kingdom successfully challenged the Austrians and established Turin as capital of the newly formed state. In 1866, King Victor Emmanuel II annexed Venice. In 1870, shortly after France abandoned it (because they were preoccupied in a war against Prussia that would lead to German unification by 1871), Italy's capital was moved to Rome. The Pope lost much of his influence, with his political authority now being confined to the Vatican City , itself a result of a political compromise between the Pope and Benito Mussolini in the 1920s.

The Kingdom of Italy

After unification, the Kingdom of Italy occupied parts of Eastern and Northern Africa. This included the occupation of Libya , during which Italy scored a decisive victory over the Ottoman Empire.

At the outbreak of World War I , despite being in alliance with Germany and Austria-Hungary , Italy refused to participate in the war. Eventually, Italy entered the war, but as allies of the United Kingdom and France . As a result of the victory of Italy and its allies, Italy annexed former Austro-Hungarian land. However, Italy was not able to obtain much of what it desired, and this, in addition to the high cost of the war, led to popular discontent. This was manipulated by the nationalists, who evolved into the Fascist movement.

In October 1922, the National Fascist Party, led by Benito Mussolini, a former socialist who was thrown out of the party for his pro-war stance, attempted a coup with its "March on Rome", which resulted in the King forming an alliance with Mussolini. A pact with Germany (by that time fascist as well) was concluded by Mussolini in 1936, and a second in 1938. During the Second World War , Italy was invaded by the Allies in June 1943, leading to the collapse of the fascist regime and the arrest, escape, re-capture and execution of Mussolini. In September 1943, Italy surrendered and fought with the Allies. However, fighting continued on its territory for the rest of the war, with the Allies and Italian partisans fighting fascists who did not surrender, as well as German forces.

Italian Republic

In 1946, King Umberto II was forced to abdicate and Italy became a republic after a referendum. In the 1950s, Italy became a member of NATO. The Marshall Plan helped revive the Italian economy which, until the 1960s, enjoyed a period of sustained economic growth. Cities such as Rome returned to being popular tourist destinations, expressed in both American and Italian films such as Roman Holiday or La Dolce Vita . In 1957, Italy became a founding member of the European Economic Community. Beginning with the Wirtschaftswunder (German for "economic miracle") of the 1950s, many Germans invested their new-found wealth in vacations in Italy and Northern Italy has been particularly popular with Germans ever since. Even to the point that the spread of pizza (a speciality from the South) to Northern Italy is said to have originated with German tourists demanding what they thought to be "Italian food".

From the late 1960s till the late 1980s, however, the country experienced an economic and political crisis. There was a constant fear, inside and outside Italy, that the Communist Party, which regularly polled over 20% of the vote, would one day form a government. Many machinations by the parties of the establishment prevented this. Italy suffered terrorism from the right and the left, including the shocking kidnapping and murder of Prime Minister Aldo Moro, who shortly before had forged the "historic compromise" with the Communists. Some attacks thought to have been perpetrated by leftist groups are now known to have originated with right wing groups trying to discredit the Communist Party or with the Mafia. An involvement by the NATO "stay behind" organisation (supposed to function as a guerrilla force in the instance of a Soviet occupation), Gladio, that included many right-wing extremists has been alleged in several cases. This turbulent period is remembered as the Years of Lead, or anni di piombo .

Since 1992, Italy has faced massive government debt and extensive corruption. Scandals have involved all major parties, but especially the Christian Democrats and the Socialists, which were both dissolved, after having dominated politics since the end of the war. The 1994 elections led to media magnate Silvio Berlusconi's tenure as Prime Minister; his allies were defeated in 1996, but emerged victorious in 2001. They lost the election in 2006, but won again in 2008, and lost in 2013. Berlusconi is a controversial figure inside and outside of Italy, and has found himself in court numerous times. Some people even say his political career began as an attempt to escape legal repercussions through parliamentary immunity. Following the 2018 elections, two populist parties agreed to form a government with a majority of seats in the Chamber of Deputies. This has resulted in an uneasy arrangement, with the anti-establishment Movimento Cinque Stelle (Five Star Movement, M5S) and the far-right Lega (League) uniting to form an unprecedented populist coalition government. This coalition broke down in 2019 over disagreements on the treatment of refugees from Africa, and a new coaliton government comprised of M5S with and the centre-left Partito Democratico (Democratic Party, PD) was sworn in after that, but that government too didn't last long either.

In the last elections, a new right-wing government was formed, which for the first time has as prime minister a woman, (and it is also the first time that the prime minister belongs to a party that, in some way, was linked ideally to fascism, (even if now she condemns the mistakes of fascism).

The climate of Italy varies and often differs from the stereotypical Mediterranean climate it is known for. Most of Italy has hot, dry summers, with July and August being the hottest months of the year. Winters are cold and damp in the north, and mild and sunny in the south. The temperature differences across the country are more extreme in winter. For instance, on a typical winter day, you may very well have 6°C in Milan (north), 15°C in Rome (centre), and 21°C in Palermo (south). On the other hand, a typical summer day might bring similar temperatures to all three cities. Conditions on the peninsula's coastal areas can be very different from the higher ground and valleys of the interior; during the winter months, the higher altitudes tend to be cold, and during the summer months the heat is oppressive in the valleys. The Alps have a mountain climate, with mild summers and very cold winters. Below is a climate chart depicting the climate of Naples, Italy, which well represents a typical Italian coastal climate.

Non-Guidebooks about Italy or by Italian writers.

• Italian Journey (original German title: Italienische Reise) by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe; a report on his travels to Italy via Innsbruck and the Brenner Pass . He visited Lake Garda , Verona , Vicenza , Venice , Bologna , Assisi , Rome and Alban Hills , Naples and Sicily from 1786–7, published in 1816–7.
• The Agony and the Ecstasy by Irving Stone — a biography of Michelangelo that also paints a lovely portrait of Tuscany and Rome.
• Brunelleschi's Dome: How a Renaissance Genius Reinvented Architecture by Ross King — a compelling story of one of the greatest structural engineering achievements of the Renaissance. The story of the building of the immense dome on top of the basilica in Florence, Italy.
• Under the Tuscan Sun by Frances Mayes — an account of a woman who buys and restores a holiday home in Cortona, Italy. Full of local flavour and a true taste of Tuscany.
• The Sea and Sardinia by D.H. Lawrence — describes a brief excursion undertaken by Lawrence and Frieda, his wife aka Queen Bee, from Taormina in Sicily to the interior of Sardinia. They visited Cagliari, Mandas, Sorgono and Nuoro. Despite the brevity of his visit, Lawrence distills an essence of the island and its people that is still recognisable today. Also by D.H. Lawrence is Etruscan Places , recording his impressions of Cerveteri , Tarquinia , Vulci and Volterra .
• Italian Neighbours and A Season with Verona by Tim Parks. Two portraits of contemporary life in Italy as seen by an English writer who lived just outside Verona.
• Neapolitan Quartet Series by Elena Ferrante. A series of novels that explores the intense friendship of two Italian women during the 1950s-1970s. Primarily set in Naples and Florence, this series of novels has received international attention for its depiction of Naples and the rich friendship between these two fictional characters.

The Italian names are parenthesised.

• 1 January : New Year's Day ( Capodanno )
• 6 January : Epiphany ( Epifania )
• March or April according to the Gregorian calendar : Easter ( Pasqua ) and Easter Monday ( Pasquetta )
• 25 April : Liberation Day ( la Festa della Liberazione )
• 1 May : Labor Day ( la Festa del Lavoro )
• 2 June : Republic Day ( la Festa della Repubblica )
• 15 August : Ferragosto
• 1 November : All Saints' Day ( Ognissanti )
• 8 December : Feast of the Immaculate Conception ( Immacolata Concezione )
• 25 December : Christmas ( Natale )
• 26 December : St. Stephen's Day ( Santo Stefano )

Tourist information

• Ministry of Tourism

Italian ( italiano ) is the language spoken natively by most Italians. Standard Italian is largely based on the dialect of Tuscan spoken in Florence . Every region in Italy has a distinct native Italic language in addition to Italian that may or may not be spoken by locals, depending on the area. In Rome or Milan, the spoken language is nowadays usually Italian with some local influence, whereas in rural areas the local language is more common; though people usually speak italiano , too. Even though Italians call the native languages "dialects", they are separate languages, much like Chinese languages; they even have their own way of writing. Some of these languages also have their own rich literary traditions, the most important ones being Neapolitan, Venetian and Milanese.

German is the co-official language of South Tyrol , an autonomous region of the country. Many of South Tyrol's residents (69.4% according to the 2011 census) have German as their first language, but the use of German is gradually declining.

In northern Italy, there are small pockets of other Romance languages like Ladin, a Rhaeto-Romance language related to Switzerland 's Romansh. Friulano, another Rhaeto-Romance language, is still spoken by an important minority in the border region near Austria and Slovenia. There are several Greek -speaking enclaves in the southern regions of Calabria and Puglia and there are an estimated 100,000 Albanian speakers in Apulia, Calabria and Sicily—some of whom migrated in the Middle Ages and thus speak the rather medieval-sounding Arberesh language. Some regions have additional official languages: German in Alto Adige/ South Tyrol, Slovene and German in Friuli-Venezia Giulia and French in Valle d'Aosta. Slovene is spoken near the Slovenian border and in Gorizia and Trieste . Most speakers of these minority languages also speak Italian.

English is spoken by shopkeepers and tour operators in tourist areas. Outside of the tourism industry, you are not guaranteed to find locals who are conversant in English, though if you haven't been to Italy since the 1990s or so, you'll find that much more English is spoken in cities like Rome and Florence as of 2024 than used to be the case. That said, efforts to speak Italian are often appreciated and likely to smooth your visit considerably. Before speaking English, begin the conversation in Italian and ask in Italian if the person understands English. Always simplify and speak slowly when using English, especially if you are outside the touristy cities. Most people above 50 never studied English at school and they are very unlikely to know a single word in English. Younger people are more likely to know basic English, though often with a strong accent. Realistically, the only people who are likely to speak fluent English are the students who study foreign languages at university, and those who have lived abroad or travel abroad regularly for work. However, most people will make gestures to make themselves understood.

The Romance languages Spanish, French, Portuguese and Romanian are not widely spoken but are similar to Italian, so some words will be understood, especially in written form. In the northwesternmost region ( Valle d'Aosta ) there are French- and Franco-Provençal-speaking minorities. In neighboring Piedmont , it's not uncommon to find people who speak French as well. Italian is somewhat similar to Spanish , so if you speak Spanish, locals will generally be able to puzzle you out with some difficulty, and you should also find it easy to pick up Italian.

Italy is a member of the Schengen Agreement . See Travelling around the Schengen Area for more information on how the scheme works, which countries are members and what the requirements are for your nationality. In summary:

• There are normally no immigration controls between countries that have signed and implemented the treaty.
• There are usually identity checks before boarding international flights or boats entering the Schengen Area. Sometimes there are temporary border controls at land borders.
• A visa granted for any Schengen member is valid in all other countries that have signed and implemented the treaty.

Foreign military entering Italy under a Status of Forces Agreement do not require a passport and need only show their valid military identification card and travel orders. Their dependents, however, are not exempt from visa requirements.

All non -EU, EEA or Swiss citizens staying in Italy for 90 days or less have to declare their presence in Italy within 8 days of arrival. If your passport was stamped on arrival in Italy , the stamp counts as such a declaration. Generally, a copy of your hotel registration will suffice if you are staying at a hotel. Otherwise, however, you will have to go to a police office to complete the form ( dichiarazione di presenza ). Failing to do so may result in expulsion. Travellers staying longer than 90 days do not need to complete this declaration, but must instead have an appropriate visa and must obtain a residence permit ( permesso di soggiorno ).

Larger airports are served by the major European airlines. Intercontinental flights mainly arrive in Milan and Rome, the main gateways into the country.

Most mid-range international flights arrive in the following Italian cities:

• Rome - with two airports: Fiumicino ( FCO  IATA - Leonardo da Vinci) and Ciampino ( CIA  IATA ) for budget airlines
• Milan - with two airports: Malpensa ( MXP  IATA ) and Linate ( LIN  IATA ); in addition, Bergamo ( BGY  IATA - Orio al Serio) is sometimes referred to as "Milan Bergamo"
• Bologna ( BLQ  IATA – Guglielmo Marconi)
• Naples ( NAP  IATA - Capodichino)
• Pisa ( PSA  IATA - Galileo Galilei)
• Venice ( VCE  IATA – Marco Polo ); in addition, Treviso (TSF - Antonio Canova) is sometimes referred to as "Venice Treviso"
• Turin ( TRN  IATA – Sandro Pertini)
• Catania ( CTA  IATA - Vincenzo Bellini)
• Bari ( BRI  IATA - Palese)
• Genoa ( GOA  IATA - Cristoforo Colombo)

Prominent airlines in Italy

• ITA Airways ( AZ ), ☏ +39 892010 . Flag carrier and national airline of Italy. It's part of the SkyTeam alliance, and also codeshares with other carriers outside the alliance. Rome Fiumicino ( FCO  IATA ) is the main hub, while Milano Malpensa ( MXP  IATA ) has been relegated to a lesser role.  
• Ryanair ( FR ), ☏ +39 899 55 25 89 . Many destinations in Italy. ( updated Feb 2024 )
• easyjet ( U2 ), ☏ +39 199 201 840 . Many destinations in Italy. ( updated Feb 2024 )
• Wizz Air , ☏ +39 899 018 874 . Connects Italy to almost all parts of Europe as well as to the Southern Caucasus, Northern Africa and the Middle East like the UAE. ( updated Feb 2024 )
• From Austria via Vienna , Innsbruck and Villach
• From France via Nice , Lyon and Paris
• From Germany via Munich
• From Spain via Barcelona
• From Switzerland via Basel , Geneva and Zürich
• From Slovenia via Ljubljana to Opicina, a small village above Trieste or via Nova Gorica and a short walk to Gorizia , Italy

Italy borders on France , Austria , Switzerland and Slovenia . All borders are open (without passport/customs checks), but cars can be stopped behind the border for random checks.

Flixbus offers domestic and international routes. There are regular buses between Ljubljana, Slovenian coastal towns and Istria (Croatia) and Trieste (Italy). These services are cheap and from Trieste onward connections with the rest of Italy are plentiful. There is also a bus that goes from Malmö, Sweden via Denmark, Germany and Switzerland and then goes through the country and then back to Sweden.

Ferries arrive from Greece , Albania , Montenegro and Croatia . Most of them arrive at Venice , Ancona , Bari and Brindisi .

Regular ferry services connect the island of Corsica in France to Genoa , Livorno , Civitavecchia , Naples and Northern Sardinia . Barcelona is connected to Civitavecchia and to Genoa .

Regular ferry services connect Sicily and Naples to North African harbours.

A hydrofoil service connects Pozzallo on the south-eastern coast of Sicily and Malta .

There is a year-round service between Trieste and Albania and summer services between Trieste and Piran (Slovenia) and Porec and Rovinj in Croatian Istria. The service between Trieste and Rovinj takes less than 2 hours, which is quicker than the bus service.

Trains in Italy are generally a good value, somewhat frequent, and of uneven reliability. On some high-speed routes there is a choice between "Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori" (privately owned) and "Trenitalia" (state owned). On other routes, either Trenitalia or a regional operator provides the service.

• Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori , ☏ +39 060708 . NTV's ".Italo" high-speed trains serve major cities. It is a luxurious service, and for some routes and dates, their prices are lower than the competition's.  
• Trenitalia , ☏ +39 892021 . Trenitalia runs a wide range of train types: high-speed trains (Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Frecciabianca), Intercity , regional trains (Regionali, Regionali Veloci) and international trains (Eurocity, Euronight). High-speed trains are very comfortable, travelling up to 360km/h and stopping only at major stations and connect only the main cities. They charge a supplement to the standard ticket, which includes the booking fee. Regional trains are the slowest, cheapest and least reliable, stopping at all stations. Intercity trains are somewhere between high-speed and local trains. They are generally reliable. ( updated Sep 2016 )

Train types

On long-distance trains there are 1st and 2nd classes. A 2nd class ticket costs about 80% the price of a 1st class ticket. On high-speed trains you can also choose between basic, standard and flexible tickets. Basic tickets are of course the cheapest. During commuter hours, on major north-south routes during the holidays, or before and after large political demonstrations, trains on the lower train types are often overcrowded.

Although between Milan and Naples (including Bologna, Florence and Rome), high-speed trains cut travel times in half, on other routes, such as between Rome and Genoa, Naples and Reggio Calabria, Venice and Trieste, they travel on the traditional line, with only marginally shorter travel times compared to Intercity trains.

On long routes, such as Milan - Rome or Milan - Reggio di Calabria , Trenitalia operates special night trains : Intercity notte . They depart around 22.00 and arrive in the morning.

Getting tickets

The lines to buy tickets are often long and slow, so get to the station early. There are efficient, multilingual, touch-screen ticket machines, but the lines for them are often long, too, because there are few of them.

You can also buy tickets online on the Trenitalia website ; you will receive a code (codice di prenotatione (PNR)) that is used to pick up the ticket from a ticket machine in the station ("Self Service"). The site will show the "best" (usually more expensive) connections - you may select to "show all connections" (or "Regional trains") to see if there are slower but cheaper connections available.

For high-speed and intercity trains you can also choose a ticketless option. You get a PNR code via email and board the train directly. On board you must tell the conductor your PNR code.

High-speed trains can fill up, so if you're on a tight schedule, buy the tickets in advance. In general, you should buy the tickets before boarding the train. Fines start at €50. If you're running late and have no ticket, it's probably best to talk directly with the conductor ( il controllore or il capotreno ) outside the train before boarding.

Trenitalia Pass : you buy a number of days of travel to be used within 2 months, however you still have to pay a supplement on the compulsory reservation services, i.e. TBiz, Eurostar Italia, and Intercity which will be €5-25, depending on the train type. Details are on the Trenitalia website, and also on the International Rail website .

You must validate the ticket before boarding most trains, by stamping it in one of the white boxes (marked Convalida ). Tickets that specify the day and time of travel do not need to be validated.

The cheapest way to travel in a region is to buy a zone ticket card . A chart displayed near the validating machine tells you how many zones you must pay between stations. To buy a zone card for the next region, get off the train at the last station, buy the ticket, and board the next train (usually departing in about an hour).

A smoking ban in public places is in effect in Italy. Smoking on any Italian train is subject to a fine.

The advent of low-cost carriers made domestic air travel cheaper. When booked in advance, plane tickets for long trips are often cheaper than train fares. ITA Airways, Ryanair, Easyjet and Blue Express operate domestic flights while small, new airlines appear and disappear often.

Italy has a well-developed system of motorways ( autostrade ) in the North, while in the South it's a bit worse for quality and extent. Most motorways are toll roads. The autostrade are marked with green signs, while general highways are marked with blue signs. Speeding on the autostrade is nowadays less common than in the past. There are automatic systems to punish speeding and hazardous driving. Italian Highway Patrol ( Polizia Stradale ) operates unmarked cars equipped with advanced speed radars and camera systems.

The tolerated alcohol limit is 0.50g/L in blood, or zero for drivers under 21 years of age or with less than 3 years of driving experience.

Fuel prices are in line with those in western Europe and more expensive than in North America and Japan. As of December 2016, prices were about €1.65/L for gasoline and €1.53/L for diesel.

Traffic in large Italian cities is heavy and finding a parking spot ranges from a challenging to an impossible enterprise at times. Park your vehicle at a park-and-ride facility or somewhere in the outskirts and use public transport. Be careful with Zone a Traffico Limitato or ZTL s (Limited Traffic Zones) . They are restricted areas in the historical centres of many cities, where only authorised vehicles are permitted. Many tourists are fined (about €100) for entering a ZTL unknowingly.

EU licences are automatically recognised. If you don't have an EU driving licence, you need an International Driving Permit in addition to your home driver's license in order to drive. To obtain a recognition of your driving licence ( adeguamento or tagliando di riconoscimento ) you will need to pass a medical examination.

All motor vehicles in Italy must have insurance ( assicurazione ) for at least third party liability.

Buy town bus tickets from corner shops, bus-company offices or automated machines before boarding (on some systems, tickets might be bought on-board from an automated machine). Buying tickets from the bus driver is generally not possible.

The payment system for most mass transit in Italy (urban trains, city buses, subway) is based on voluntary payment combined with variable enforcement. Tickets are bought before boarding and validated on an on-board machine; inspectors may board the vehicle to check the passengers' tickets and issue fines to those lacking a validated ticket. The inspectors are generally recognizable by some item displaying the company's logo. When issuing a fine, inspectors are allowed to ask to see your documents, and they have to give some sort of receipt with date, time and location. They are never allowed to directly collect the fine (which generally can be paid at a post office). Assaulting an inspector during his work is a serious offense.

Daily, weekly, monthly and year-round tickets are generally available, in addition to multi-use tickets. These may or may not need to be validated. In almost every city there's a different pricing scheme, so check ticket formulas and availability in advance. For tourists it may be very convenient to buy daily (or multi-day) tickets that allow unlimited travel within a single day or period. Major cities have some type of City Card , a fixed-fee card allowing travel on local public transportation, visits to a number of museums, and discounts in shops, hotels and restaurants.

Check for these possibilities at local tourist offices or on the city's website (which is often of the form www.comune. cityname .it as for example www.comune.roma.it).

Intercity buses used to be a niche market in Italy. The main intercity bus operator in Italy is Flixbus , which operates a vast network of routes connecting cities across the country. Other bus companies in Italy include Saj , MarinoBus and Itabus .

The prices of intercity bus tickets in Italy are usually lower than train tickets, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious travellers. However, the travel time for buses can be longer than trains, and the comfort level may be lower.

The buses in Italy are generally modern and well-maintained, with air conditioning and comfortable seating. Some buses also offer onboard amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and toilets.

It's worth noting that some cities in Italy have restricted access to vehicles, and it may not be possible to reach certain areas by bus. Therefore, it's essential to plan your journey carefully and check the bus routes and schedules in advance.

Tickets for intercity buses in Italy can be purchased online, at bus stations, or from ticket agents. It's advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel periods, as seats can fill up quickly.

By e-hailing

Most commonly used are Uber, AppTaxi and FreeNow followed by InTaxi, ItTaxi and DigiTaxi . ( updated May 2024 )

Hitchhiking in Italy is associated with the 1960s hippies and "on the road" kind of culture. Therefore, it is considered out-dated and useless. You will almost never find Italians hitchhiking unless there's a serious problem with the bus or other means of transportation. Also, it is nowadays common to spot prostitutes by the side of the road pretending to hitchhike to attract clientele so it's advisable to avoid being mistaken for one.

Hitchhiking in the summer in touristy areas works well because you'll get rides from Northern European tourists, and it works well in rural areas as long as there is consistent traffic (because you're still playing the odds), but hitchhiking near large cities or along busy routes is frustrating . Hitchhiking along expressways and highways is forbidden by law and off the Autostrade, Italians are unlikely to pick up hitchhikers.

Approaching Italy by sea can be a great experience and is a good alternative to traditional onshore “tours”. A yacht charter to Italy is a fulfilling way to experience the country. Although the yacht charter industry is smaller than one would expect for this incredibly popular tourist destination, there are many reasons to choose a yacht over a more conventional onshore approach. The Italian coast, like the French coast, attracts luxury yacht charters of the highest standards. “Touring” Italy from a private yacht is surprisingly convenient and comfortable. Italy’s dramatic coastline is best appreciated from the sea. You may take a swim whenever you like, and many famous sights are near the seashore. Cruising on a private yacht shields one from the crowds and traffic infesting popular destinations.

Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, Sardinia and Sicily are the main nautical regions. Each has its own flavor and is rewarding in its own particular way.

There is so much to see in Italy that it is difficult to know where to begin. Virtually every village has some sights.

• The Greek influence. Well-preserved Greek temples at Agrigento in the south-west of Sicily and at Paestum , just south of Naples, give a good understanding of the extent of Greek influence on Italy.

• Christian Italy. The Vatican is the seat of the Roman Catholic Church. Although inside Rome it is officially a separate country. Don't miss St Peter's and the Vatican Museum. Rome, itself, has over 900 churches; many of these are worth a quick visit. Throughout Italy there is amazing Christian architecture covering the Romanesque (700–1200); Gothic (1100–1450); Renaissance (1400–1600); and ornate Baroque (1600–1830) styles. Although theft of artwork has been a problem, major city churches and cathedrals retain many paintings and sculptures, while others have been moved to city and Church museums. Frescoes and mosaics are everywhere, and quite stunning. Don't just look for churches: in rural areas there are some fascinating monasteries to be discovered. All but the largest churches are usually closed between 12:30 and 15:30.
• The Byzantine cities. The Byzantines controlled northern Italy until kicked out by the Lombards in 751. Venice is of course world famous and nearby Chioggia, also in the Lagoon, is a smaller version. Ravenna 's churches have some incredible mosaics. Visiting Ravenna requires a bit of a detour, but it is well worth it.
• The Renaissance. Start with a visit to Piazza Michelangelo in Florence to admire the famous view. Then explore the museums, both inside and outside Florence, that house Renaissance masterpieces. The Renaissance, or Rebirth, ( Rinascimento in Italian) lasted from the 15th to the 17th century and is generally seen as having begun in Florence. The list of famous names is endless: in architecture Ghiberti (the cathedral's bronze doors), Brunelleschi (the dome), and Giotto (the bell tower). In literature: Dante, Petrarch and Machiavelli. In painting and sculpture: Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Donatello, Masaccio and Botticelli.
• Streets and squares. You could visit Italy's cities, never go in a church, museum or Roman ruin, and still have a great time. Just wander around, keeping your eyes open. Apart from the Po and Adige valleys, most of Italy (including the cities) is hilly or mountainous, giving some great views. Look up when walking around to see amazing roof gardens and classical bell towers. In cities such as Rome, note the continued juxtaposition of expensive stores with small workplaces for artisans. Search for interesting food shops and ice cream shops ( gelaterie ). Above all, enjoy the atmosphere.
• Operas . If you are interested in famous Italian operas, they are performed in Milan, Verona, Parma, Rome, Venice, Turin, Spoleto, Florence, Palermo and Genoa.
• Medieval hilltop towns . Hundreds of these offer a backdrop of scenic landscapes.
• Landscapes . Italy, shaped a like a peninsular boot, provides natural beauty with a variety of breathtaking landscapes, ranging from mountains, rural valleys, warm Mediterranean waters and three active volcanoes.
• UNESCO World Heritage

• Aeolian Islands
• Pantelleria
• Aegadi Islands
• Pelagie Islands

Every major city has museums, but some of them have national and international relevance.

These are some of the most important permanent collections.

• Uffizi Museum ( Florence ). One of the greatest museums in the world and a must-see. Given the great number of visitors, advance ticket reservation is a good idea, to avoid hour-long queues.  
• Galleria dell'Accademia ( Florence ). Home to Michelangelo's famous statue of David.  
• Brera Art Gallery ( Pinacoteca di Brera ) ( Milan ). A prestigious museum in a fine 17th-century palace, which boasts several paintings, including notable ones from the Renaissance era.  
• The Etruscan Academy Museum of the City of Cortona ( Cortona , Tuscany ).  
• Egyptian Museum ( Museo Egizio ) ( Turin ). Holds the second-largest Egyptian collection in the world, after Egypt's Cairo Museum collection.  
• The Aquarium ( Genoa ). One of the largest and most beautiful in the world, in the Porto Antico (ancient port) in an area completely renewed by architect Renzo Piano in 1992.  
• Science and Technology Museum ( Milan ). One of the largest in Europe, holds collections about boats, aeroplanes, trains, cars, motorcycles, radio and energy. Has also acquired the Toti submarine, which is open to visitors.  
• Roman Civilization Museum ( Rome ). Holds the world's largest collection about ancient Rome and a marvellous reproduction (scale 1:250) of the entire Rome area in AD 325, the age of Constantine the Great.  
• National Cinema Museum ( Turin ). In the historic Mole Antonelliana building, the symbol of the city.  
• Automobile Museum ( Turin ). One of the largest in the world, with a 170-car collection covering the entire history of automobiles.  
• Capitoline Museums ( Musei Capitolini ) ( Rome ). Large collections of artworks and archaeological findings from the Roman period to the Renaissance. The oldest public art museum in the world.  
• The Vatican Museums ( Vatican ). Visit the 54 "galleries" of the museums to see the Sistine Chapel, the rooms painted by Raphael, some amazing early maps, and artwork across the centuries, mostly Christian in focus.  
• Etruscan Museum ( Villa Giulia, Rome ). Amazing collection of Etruscan art.  

Beaches and swimming

One of the great things about Italy is that its long thin shape means that when you get fed up with sightseeing, you are often near a beach. In many of the more popular areas, large sections of beach are reserved as paid beaches. In the season they cover almost the entire beach with rows and rows of sunbeds (lettini) and umbrellas (ombrelloni). You have the right to pass through these establishments without being charged to get to the sea, and should be able to walk along the sea in front of them. More affordable are the beaches in Calabria : Many are free, so you will only need to pay for equipment if you choose to rent any.

South of Rome there are 20 km of free beach at the Circeo National Park. This is thanks to Dr. Mario Valeriani , who was in charge of that area after World War II and never gave permits to build anything, in spite of the very generous bribes offered by a multitude of would-be investors and millionaires, as he thought this was a natural marvel that should remain as it was intended. So today we can all enjoy this stretch of nature. You can bring your own chair and sun cover and you will only be charged a parking fee on the main road.

While renting lettini for the day is not particularly expensive at establishments, they can fill up very quickly. There are some free beaches everywhere: they are easily identifiable by the absence of regimented rows of lettini . They are often crowded: on a Saturday or Sunday in the summer you won’t find an empty stretch of beach anywhere. Most establishments offer full services including entertainment, bar and restaurant, gym classes and kindergarten. Close to urban areas you will never be far from a fish restaurant on the beach or, at the very least, a bar. On the beach, topless women are more or less accepted everywhere but complete nudity is absolutely not accepted anywhere in Italy and it carries a hefty fine and/or arrest.

Classical music

Italy was the birthplace of Western opera during the late 16th century and, unsurprisingly, Italy is home to some of the world's most famous opera houses, the best known of which is the Teatro alla Scala in Milan . The first-ever opera was Jacopo Peri's Dafne (now lost), which was premiered at the Palazzo Corsi in Florence in 1598, though the oldest surviving opera that is still regularly performed today is L'Orfeo by Claudio Monteverdi, which was premiered at the court of Mantua in 1607. Yet another important city in the history of opera is Venice , in which the first public opera house was built, allowing paying members of the general public access to what was once court entertainment for the aristocracy. In fact, in the early 18th century, Italian opera was the most popular form of entertainment among the aristocracy in every European country except France, and even operas that premiered in non-Italian speaking areas such as London and Vienna were written in Italian. Many Italian composers, such as Monteverdi, Vivaldi, Rossini, Verdi and Puccini continue to be revered by classical music enthusiasts, and some of their pieces have even found their way into modern pop culture. In addition to the locals, many foreign composers such as Handel and Mozart also composed several critically acclaimed Italian operas which continue to enchant audiences to this day.

Besides opera, Italy has also been a key player in the development of other genres of Western classical music. The concerto was first popularised by the Italian composer Arcangelo Corelli during the Baroque period, and the symphony can trace its origins to the overtures of Italian Baroque opera. Ballet, despite its French name and terminology, and being more commonly associated with France or Russia, actually originated in Italy during the Renaissance. In fact, it was de rigueur for European composers, regardless of their origin, to spend some time in Italy studying music, and to this day, most terminology used in Western music scores continues to be in Italian.

Visit the vineyards

Italy is famous for its wine . And its vineyards tend to be in the middle of some beautiful scenery. Taking an organised tour is probably best. Day trips can usually be organised through hotels in major wine areas such as Chianti or through the local tourism office. There are several companies offering longer tours that include meals and accommodation. A simple web search for “Italian vineyard tours” or “wine tour Italy” will find them. These longer tours emphasise good food, great wine and a high standard of accommodation and are thus expensive. If you rent a car and want to organise your own trips, a helpful website is that of the Movimento Turismo del Vino . The Italian page has a link to itinerari which is not available in English. Even if you don’t read Italian you can still find addresses and opening hours of some interesting wine producers. “Su prenotazione” means "By Appointment Only".

Cycling tours

Several companies offer cycling tours of the Italian countryside. They provide cycles, a guide and transportation for your suitcase, and for you if it all gets a bit too tiring. Tours vary to accommodate different interests. Normally you change city and hotel every day. If you like cycling this is an excellent way of seeing Italy off-the-beaten-track. Search Google, etc. for "Cycle Tours Italy" for companies.

Sailing is one of the best ways to see the Italian islands such as Sardinia and Sicily. Most charter companies offer options from bareboat to crewed and cabin charter, with all types of the boats.

Spectator sports

Italy is sports crazy and as such soccer , Rugby Union and several other sports enjoy a devout, if sometimes violent, following. In the 1980s Italy was one of the most notable first adopters of American Football in Europe, though corruption in the national federation and scandals have greatly reduced interest in this sport since.

Cycling: Giro d'Italia is one of the world's top races, held over three weeks in May. There are lots of smaller events, which you may be forced to watch when they cause road closures.

Italy uses the euro , like several other European countries . One euro is divided into 100 cents. The official symbol for the euro is €, and its ISO code is EUR. There is no official symbol for the cent.

All banknotes and coins of this common currency are legal tender within all the countries, except that low-denomination coins (one and two cent) are phased out in some of them. The banknotes look the same across countries, while coins have a standard common design on the reverse, expressing the value, and a national country-specific design on the obverse. The obverse is also used for different designs of commemorative coins. The design of the obverse does not affect the coin's acceptability.

Italy phased out the one- and two-cent coins in 2018, rounding prices to the nearest five-cent increment.

Tips ( la mancia ) are not customary in Italy but are offered when a special service is given or to recognise high quality service. Most restaurants, except those in Rome, have a price for the service coperto and waiters do not expect a tip; however, they will not refuse one. In cafés, bars, and pubs it's not uncommon to leave the change, saying to the waiter or to the cashier tenga il resto - "keep the change". Tip jars near the cash register are becoming widespread, but in public toilets, they are often forbidden. Leaving the change is also quite common with taxi drivers, and hotel porters may expect a little something. It is not possible to add tips manually to a credit card bill, so you'll need cash.

Italy is an expensive country and its cities are more expensive than suburban and rural places. Usually, Southern Italy is less expensive than Northern Italy, especially for food; this will, of course, vary by location.

Meals can be had from as cheap as €3 (if you are happy with a sandwich [panino] or falafel from a street vendor); restaurant bills range from €10 (a burger with fries or salad and a soft drink from a pub) to €20 (a starter, main course and water from a regular restaurant).

Unless otherwise stated, prices are inclusive of IVA sales tax (same as VAT ), which is 22% for most goods, and 10% in restaurants and hotels. On some products, such as books, IVA is 4%. In practice, you can forget about it since it is universally included in the display price. Non-EU residents are entitled to a VAT refund on purchases of goods that will be taken out of the European Union . Shops offering this scheme have a Tax Free sticker outside. Ask for a tax-free voucher before leaving the store and bring your passport. These goods have to be unused and unopened when passing the customs checkpoint upon leaving the EU.

While travelling through the countryside, do not rely on credit cards ; in small towns they're accepted by only a few shops and restaurants. Cash is king around the country.

Opening hours

Opening hours in Italy are very complicated and they change from place to place. Do not expect stores to be open all day and always check opening times before going to a particular place. To simplify, generally the situation is as follows:

• Most shops are closed for lunch (between 12:30 and 15:30)
• Barber shops are closed on Mondays
• Banks are open to the public for about only 4 hours in the morning and barely an hour in the afternoon
• Restaurants will not open before 11:30 for lunch and 19:00 for dinner
• Many shops are closed on Sunday and some are closed on Monday, but don't take the rest of the week for granted: many will close on a specific day of the week

What to buy

Italy is a great place for all forms of shopping. Most cities, villages and towns, are crammed to the brim with many different forms of shops, from glitzy boutiques and huge shopping malls, to tiny art galleries, small food stores, antique dealers and general newsagents.

• Food is definitely one of the best souvenirs you can get in Italy. There are thousands of different shapes of pasta (not only spaghetti or macaroni). Then every Italian region has its local speciality like cheese , wine , ham, salami, oil and vinegar. Don't forget to buy Nutella. Note that some non-European countries (notably, the United States, Australia and New Zealand) have strict rules about what food items can be brought into the country from outside. Cured meats (and other uncooked produce) that you purchase in Italy may not be allowed into your country - check with your embassy or your customs agency to be sure, before you spend a large amount of money on something that may get confiscated.
• Italian fashion is renowned worldwide. Many of the world's most famous international brands have their headquarters or were founded in Italy.

• Jewellery and accessory shops can be found in abundance in Italy. There are many jewellery and accessory stores which hail from Italy. Vicenza and Valenza are considered the country's jewellery capitals, which are also famous for their silverware and goldware shops. All over Italy, notably Vicenza, Milan, Valenza, Rome, Naples, Florence and Venice, but also several other cities, you can find hundreds of jewellery or silverware boutiques. Apart from the famous ones, there are some great quirky and funky jewelry stores scattered around the country.
• Design and furniture is something Italy is proudly and justifiably famous for. Excellent quality furniture stores can be found all over, but the best deals are in Milan. Milan contains among the top design rooms and emporia in the world. For the newest design inventions, attend the Fiera di Milano in Rho, where the latest appliances are exhibited. Many Italian cities have great antique furniture stores. So, you can choose between cutting-edge, avant-garde furniture, or old world antiques to buy in this country, which are, by average, of good quality.
• Glassware is something which Venice makes uniquely but which is spread around the whole of the country. Venice is famously the capital of Murano (not the island), or glassware made in different colours. Here, you can get goblets, crystal chandeliers, candlesticks and decorations made in multi-coloured blown glass, which can be designed in modern, funky arrangements, or the classical style.
• Books can be found in bookshops in any city. The main book and publishing companies/stores in Italy include Mondadori, Feltrinelli, Hoepli or Rizzoli. Most big bookstores are found in Milan, Turin and nearby Monza, which are the capitals of Italy's publishing trade (Turin was made World Book Capital in 2006), however other cities such as Rome have many book shops. 99% of the books sold are in Italian.
• Art shops are found throughout Italy, notably in Florence, Rome and Venice. In Florence, the best place to buy art is the Oltrarno, where there are numerous ateliers selling replicas of famous paintings. Usually, depending in what city you're in, you get replicas of notable works of art found there, but also, you can find rare art shops, sculpture shops, or funky, modern/old stores in several cities.

In a small or medium-sized shop, it's standard to greet the staff as you enter, not when you approach the counter to pay. A friendly 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera' warms the atmosphere. When paying, the staff usually expect you to put coins down on the surface or dish provided, rather than placing money directly into their hands (old money-handling etiquette to avoid messy coin droppings), and they will do the same when giving you your change ('il resto'). This is normal practice and is not intended to be rude.

Haggling is very rare and only ever takes place when dealing with hawkers. They will generally ask for an initial price that is much higher than what they are willing to sell for, and going for the asking price is a sure way to get ripped off. Hawkers often sell counterfeit merchandise (in some cases, very believable counterfeits), and that hoping to buy a Gucci purse for €30 off the street might not be in your best interest.

In all other situations, haggling will get you nowhere. Always be careful about counterfeit merchandise: Italian laws can apply fines up to €3000 to people who buy it (this mostly applies to luxury brand clothing or accessories).

As one of the world's most renowned culinary traditions, it is unsurprising that Italian cuisine can be very good. Unfortunately, there are also many tourist traps that serve overpriced and mediocre food. Finding the right place to eat, preferably the ones patronised by Italians, is therefore important; ask locals for their recommendations if possible, or perhaps even ask your hotel or look at online review sites for recommendations. The downside is that it is rare to find English-speaking waiters in the non-tourist-trap restaurants, so be prepared to have to speak some Italian.

Dining Etiquette

Italians, in general, have an intricate relationship with food . While table manners in Italy generally follow standard European norms, there are several rules specific to Italy that you should be mindful of during your stay. Since the country receives so many visitors, cultural blunders are tolerated, but still, you should keep the following in mind if you want to get on locals' good sides and adapt to the Italian way of life.

• Most Italians drink cappuccino during breakfast. Ordering cappuccino after breakfast is considered awkward by most Italians and servers. If you want to sip on some coffee, consider ordering a macchiato .
• Never criticise someone's food ; it is considered extremely rude.
• Never criticise the food that is served to you at a restaurant ; it is considered extremely rude and staff members won't hesitate to defend the quality of food that is served to you. Also, do not expect waiters and staff members to dance to your tune.
• Do not tell someone how to improve their cooking . Italians would be incredibly offended by this.
• Don't confuse Italian food with Italian-American food. They are different cuisines and should be treated as such.
• Don't rush your meal. A meal with your Italian colleagues and/or friends can last for several hours. Savour it!
• Do not decline an invitation to a business meal ; it is considered extremely rude and insulting to your Italian counterparts.

In Italy, cuisine is considered a kind of art . Great chefs such as Gualtiero Marchesi and Gianfranco Vissani are seen as half-way between TV stars and magicians. Italians are extremely proud of their culinary tradition and generally love food and talking about it. However, they are not so fond of common preconceptions, such as that Italian food is only pizza and spaghetti. They also have a distaste for "bastardised" versions of their dishes that are popular elsewhere, and many Italians have a hard time believing that the average foreigner can't get even a basic pasta dish "right".

Italian food in Italy is different from food marketed as "Italian" overseas. It is truly one of the most diverse in the world, and in any region, or even city and village you go, there are different specialities. For instance, it could be only misleading to say that Northern Italian cuisine is based on hearty, potato and rice-rich meals, Central Italian cuisine is mainly on pastas, roasts and meat, and Southern Italian cuisine on vegetables, pizza, pasta and seafood: there are so many cross-influences that you'd only get confused trying to categorise. And in any case, Italian cuisine is not just based on pasta and tomato sauce: that's only a tiny snippet of the nation's food; rice, potatoes, lentils, soups and similar meals are very common in some parts of the country. Italian food is based upon so many ingredients and Italians often have very discriminating tastes that may seem strange to visitors.

For instance, a sandwich stand might sell 4 different types of ham sandwiches that in each case contain ham, mayonnaise, and cheese. The only thing that may be different between the sandwiches is the type of ham or cheese used in them. Rustichella and panzerotti are two examples of sandwiches well-liked by Italians and tourists alike. Rather than large sandwiches with a piling of meat, vegetables, and cheese, sandwiches in Italy are often quite small, very flat (made even more so when they are quickly heated and pressed on a panini grill), and contain a few simple ingredients and often without lettuce or mayonnaise.

The term panini may be somewhat confusing to travellers from Northern Europe where it has erroneously come to mean a flat, heated sandwich on a grill. In Italy the term is equivalent to "bread rolls" (plural — the singular is panino ) which can be simple rolls or sometimes with basic filling. However instead of a sandwich why not try a piadina , which is a flat folded bread with filling, served warm and typical of the coast of Romagna?

Italian pasta is usually available with a myriad of sauces rather than simply tomato or Alfredo. Also, Italian pasta is often served a small amount of sauce. This is, in part, because pasta in a restaurant is usually regarded as the first course of a three- or four-course meal, not a meal in itself.

Structure of a traditional meal: Usually Italian meals for working days are: small breakfast, one-dish lunch, one-dish dinner. Coffee is welcomed at nearly every hour, especially around 10:00 and at the end of a meal. At the weekends and in restaurants (for other occasions), a meal typically consists of: antipasti (appetisers: marinated vegetables, mixed coldcuts, seafood, etc.), primo (pasta or rice dish or soup), secondo (meat or fish course) often with a side dish known as a contorno , and dolce (dessert).

Like the language and culture, food in Italy differs region by region . Local ingredients are also very important. In warm Naples, citrus and other fresh fruit play a prominent role in both food and liquor, while in Venice fish is obviously an important traditional ingredient.

Breakfast in Italy: this is very light, often just a cappuccino or coffee with a pastry ( cappuccino e cornetto ) or a piece of bread and fruit jam. Unless you know for certain otherwise, you should not expect a large breakfast. It is not customary in Italy to eat eggs and bacon and the like at breakfast — just the thought of it is revolting to most Italians. In fact, no salty foods are consumed at breakfast, generally speaking. Additionally, cappuccino is a breakfast drink; ordering one after lunch or dinner is considered strange and considered a typical "tourist thing". A small espresso coffee is considered more appropriate for digestion.

Another enjoyable Italian breakfast item is cornetto (pl. cornetti): a croissant or light pastry often filled with jam, cream or chocolate.

Lunch and dinner times may be very different from the ones outside of southern Europe, and most restaurant will be closed outside the usual Italian lunch and dinner times.

Lunch is seen as the most important part of the day, so much that Italians have one hour reserved for eating (and in the past, another hour was reserved for napping). All shops close down and resume after the two-hour break period. To compensate for this, businesses stay open later than in most other European towns, often until 20:00. Good luck trying to find a place open during the so-called "pausa pranzo" (lunch break ), when visiting a small town, but this is not the case in the city centres of the biggest cities or in shopping malls.

Dinner time varies by region: in the north it is usually around 20:00 (even 19:00 in the homes), but it gets progressively later the further south one goes, up to 22:00.

Do not expect the kind of dedicated, focused service you will find in e.g. American restaurants. In Italy this is considered somewhat annoying and people generally prefer to be left alone when consuming their meal. You should expect the waiter to come and check on you after your first course, maybe to order something as second course.

Italy's most famous dishes like pizza or spaghetti are quite lame for some Italians, and eating in different areas can be an interesting opportunity to taste some less well known local specialities. Even for something as simple as pizza there are significant regional variations. That of Naples has a relatively thick, soft crust while that of Rome is considerably thinner and crustier. Both styles are thin-crust compared to American-style pizza, however.

When dining out with Italians, read the menu: almost every restaurant has a typical dish and some towns have centuries-old traditions that you are invited to learn. People will appreciate when you ask for local specialities and will gladly advise you.

In Northern Italy, at around 17:00, most bars prepare an aperitivo , especially in cosmopolitan Milan, with a series of plates of nibbles, cheese, olives, meat, bruschetta, etc. This is not considered a meal and it is considered gauche to indulge oneself in eating it as if it were dinner. All this food is typically free to anyone who purchases a drink but it is intended to be a pre-meal snack.

Regional specialities

Cities and regions have their own specialities, including:

• Risotto – Carnaroli or Arborio or Vialone Nano (etc.) rice that has been sautéed and cooked in a shallow pan with stock. The result is a creamy and hearty dish. Meat, poultry, seafood, vegetables, and cheeses are almost always added depending on the recipe and the locale. Many restaurants, families, towns, and regions will have a signature risotto or at least style of risotto, in addition or in place of a signature pasta dish (risotto alla Milanese is a famous Italian classic). Risotto is a typical dish in Lombardy and Piedmont.
• Arancini – Balls of rice with tomato sauce, eggs, peas and mozzarella cheese that are deep fried. A Sicilian speciality, they are now common nationwide.
• Polenta – Yellow cornmeal (yellow grits) that has been cooked with stock. It is normally served either creamy, or allowed to set up and then cut into shapes and fried or roasted. It is common in northern mountain restaurants, usually eaten with deer or boar. In the Veneto region, the best polenta is "polenta bianca", a special, tasty, and white cornmeal called "biancoperla".
• Gelato – This is the Italian word for ice cream. The non-fruit flavors are usually made only with milk. Gelato made with water and without dairy ingredients is also known as sorbetto. It's as fresh as a sorbet, but tastier. There are many flavors, including coffee, chocolate, fruit, and tiramisù. When buying at a gelateria, you have the choice of having it served in a wafer cone or a tub; in northern Italy you'll pay for every single flavour "ball", and the panna (the milk cream) counts as a flavour; in Rome you can buy a small wafer cone (around €2.50) a medium one (€3) or a large one (€3.50, 2020) without limit of flavours, and the panna is free.
• Tiramisù – Italian cake made with coffee, mascarpone, and ladyfingers (sometimes rum) with cocoa powder on the top. The name means "pick-me-up".

Pizza is a quick and convenient meal. In most cities, Pizza al taglio shops sell pizza by the gram. When ordering, point to the display or tell the attendant the type of pizza you would like (e.g. pizza margherita, pizza con patate (roasted or french fries), pizza al prosciutto (ham), etc.) and how much ("Vorrei (due fette - two slices) or (due etti – two-tenths of a kilogram) or simply say "di più – more" or "di meno – less, per favore"). They will slice it, warm it in the oven, fold it in half, and wrap it in paper. Other food shops also sell pizza by the slice. Italians consider those a sort of second-class pizza, chosen only when you cannot eat at a real pizzeria. Getting your meal on the run can save money – many sandwich shops charge an additional fee if you want to sit to eat your meal. In many parts of the country pizzas have a thin base of bread and not much cheese. The most authentic, original pizza is found in Naples – often containing quite a few ingredients, but most commonly pizza margherita (tomatoes, fresh basil and fresh mozzarella di bufala) or margherita with prosciutto.

The traditional, round pizza is found in many restaurants and pizzerie . It is rare to find a restaurant that serves pizza at lunchtime, however.

Take-away pizzerias ( pizzerie da asporto ) are becoming ubiquitous in many cities and towns. These are often run by north African immigrants and quality may vary, though they are almost always cheaper than restaurants (€4–5 for a margherita on average, though sometimes as low as €3) and are also open at lunchtime (a few are also open all day long). Some will also serve kebab, which may also vary in quality. Though take-away pizzas are also considered "second-class pizza" by most Italians, they are quite popular among the vast population of university students and they are usually located in residential areas. This is not to be confused with the ever so popular "Pizza al Taglio" shops in Rome. These are a sort of traditional fast food in the Capital City and can be found at every corner. Quality is usually very good and pizza is sold by the weight; you choose the piece of pizza you want, then it is weighed on a scale and priced.

Cheese and sausages

In Italy there are nearly 800 types of cheese, including the famous Parmigiano Reggiano and Grana Padano, and over 400 types of sausages.

Open-air markets offer a variety of cheeses and meats and are always open on Saturdays and usually other days, except Sunday, as well.

Restaurants and bars

Italian bars in the centre of major cities charge more (typically double whatever the final bill is) if you drink or eat seated at a table outside rather than standing at the bar or taking your order to go. This is because bars are charged a very high tax to place tables and chairs outside, so since most people do not use tables anyway, they had decided long ago to only charge those who do. The further away you are from the centre streets, the less this rule is applied. When calling into a bar for a coffee or other drink you first go to the cash register and pay for what you want. You then give the receipt to the barman, who will serve you.

Restaurants always used to charge a small coperto (cover charge). Some years ago attempts were made to outlaw the practice, with limited success. The rule now seems to be that if you have bread a coperto can be charged but if you specifically say that you don't want bread then no coperto can be levied. This has happened mainly because of backpackers who sat at a table, occupied it for an hour by just ordering a drink or a salad and consuming enormous amounts of bread.

When dining at restaurants, always wait to be seated by a waiter as attempting to seat yourself is considered to be very rude. Table manners in restaurants also tend to be formal; always keep your hands visible by resting your forearms on the table. You should never rest your elbows on the table, or put your hands on your lap. Also always be sure to hold the fork in your left hand, and the knife in your right. Also note that it is rude to ask for extra cheese to go with your pasta; it will be offered to you spontaneously when appropriate. Bread is meant to be eaten with the meal and not as an appetiser; it is either eaten with the main course, put in your soup or dipped in the sauce after you finish your pasta. Also be sure to ask for the bill when you're done; it is considered rude for a waiter to clear your table and bring you the bill before you ask for it.

Some restaurants now levy a service charge, but this is far from common. In Italian restaurants a large tip is never expected; just leave a euro or two and they will be more than happy.

The traditional meal can include (in order) antipasto (starter of cold seafood, gratinated vegetables or ham and salami), primo (first dish - pasta or rice dishes), secondo (second dish - meat or fish dishes), served together with contorno (mostly vegetables), cheeses/fruit, dessert , coffee, and spirits. Upmarket restaurants usually refuse to make changes to proposed dishes (exceptions warmly granted for babies or people on special diets). Mid-range restaurants are usually more accommodating. For example, a simple pasta with tomato sauce may not be on the menu but a restaurant will nearly always be willing to cook one for kids who turn their noses up at everything else on the menu.

If you are in a large group, say four or more, then it is appreciated if you don't all order a totally different pasta . While the sauces are pre-cooked, the pasta is cooked fresh and it is difficult for the restaurant if one person wants spaghetti, another fettuccine, a third rigatoni, a fourth penne and a fifth farfalle (butterfly shaped pasta). If you attempt such an order you will invariably be told that you will have a long wait (because the time required for cooking isn't the same for all the types of pasta)!

When pizza is ordered, it is served as a primo (even if formally it is not considered as such), together with other primi . If you order a pasta or pizza and your friend has a steak you will get your pasta dish, and probably when you've finished eating the steak will arrive. If you want primo and secondo dishes to be brought at the same time you have to ask.

Most restaurants do not offer diet food . The few that do usually write it clearly in menus and even outside. To avoid cover charges, and if you are on a strict budget, many Italian railway stations have a buffet or self-service restaurant (Termini station in Rome is a great example of the latter). These are reasonably priced and generally the food is of a high quality.

Gastronomia

A gastronomia is a kind of self-service restaurant (normally you tell the staff what you want rather than serving yourself) that also offers take-aways. This can give a good opportunity to sample traditional Italian dishes at fairly low cost. These are not buffet restaurants. The food is sold by weight.

Bars, like restaurants, are non-smoking.

Italians enjoy going out during the evenings, so it's common to have a drink in a bar before dinner. It is called Aperitivo .

Within the last couple years, started by Milan, a lot of bars have started offering fixed-price cocktails at aperitivo hours (18 - 21) with a free, and often a very good, buffet meal. It's now widely considered stylish to have this kind of aperitivo (called Happy Hour ) instead of a structured meal before going out to dance or whatever.

Italian wine is exported all over the world, and names like Barolo, Brunello, Prosecco, Valpolicella and Chianti are known everywhere. In Italy wine is a substantial topic, a sort of test which can ensure either respect or lack of attention from an entire restaurant staff. Doing your homework ensures that you will get better service, better wine and in the end may even pay less.

So before reaching Italy, try to learn a little about the most important wines of the region you are planning to visit. This will greatly increase you enjoyment. Italian cuisine varies greatly from region to region (sometimes also from town to town), and wine reflects this variety. Italians have a long tradition of matching wines with dishes and often every dish has an appropriate wine. The popular "colour rule" (red wines with meat dishes, white wines with fish) can be happily broken: Italy has many strong white wines to serve with meat (e.g. Sicilian or Tuscan chardonnays), as well as delicate red wines for fish (perhaps an Alto Adige pinot noir).

The price mark-ups charged by restaurants for wines on their wine list are not usually excessive, giving you a chance to experiment. In the big cities, there are also many wine bars, where you can taste different wines by the glass, at the same time as eating some delicious snacks. Unlike in many other countries, it is unusual for restaurants to serve wine by the glass.

The vino della casa (house wine) can be an excellent drinking opportunity in small villages far from towns (especially in Tuscany), where it could be what the patron would really personally drink or could even be the restaurant's own product. It tends to be a safe choice in decent restaurants in cities as well. Vino della casa may come bottled but in lower-priced restaurants it is still just as likely to be available in a carafe of one quarter, one half or one litre. As a general rule, if the restaurant seems honest and not too geared for tourists, the house wine is usually not too bad. That said, some house wines can be dreadful and give you a nasty head the next morning. If it doesn't taste too good it probably won't do you much good, so send it back and order from the wine list.

Italians are justly proud of their wines and foreign wines are rarely served, but many foreign grapes like cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay are increasingly being used.

Although wine is a traditional everyday product, beer is very common as well. Beer did not belong to the Italian tradition in the way that wine does, but in the last 30-odd years there has been an explosion of English-style pubs in every town, big or small, with usually a huge selection of any kind of beer, ale, stout and cider, from every country in the world.

Major Italian beers include Peroni and Moretti and these are usually the ones offered by daytime cafes. If you are serious about beer drinking, there are many bars that specialise in serving a wide range of bottled beers (see city articles for more details), as well as Irish pubs and similar establishments. There is an increasing number of micro-breweries around the country. They often are run by local beer enthusiasts turned brewers, running small breweries with a pub attached. Their association is called Unionbirrai .

In the Trieste region it is far more common to drink Slovenian beers and the most popular brands are 'Union' and 'Zlatorog'. Surprisingly it is often cheaper to buy Slovenian beer in Italy (Trieste) than in Slovenia itself.

Other drinks

• Limoncello . A liquor made of alcohol, lemon peels, and sugar. Limoncello can be considered a "moonshine" type of product (although usually made with legally obtained alcohol) as every Italian family, especially in the middle-south (near Naples) and southern part of the country, has its own recipe for limoncello. Because lemon trees adapt so well to the Mediterranean climate, and they produce a large amount of fruit continually throughout their long fruit-bearing season, it is not unusual to find many villa's yards filled with lemon trees bending under the weight of their crop. You can make a lot of lemonade, or better yet, brew your own limoncello. It is mainly considered a dessert liqueur, served after a heavy meal (similar to amaretto), and used for different celebrations. The taste can be compared to a very strong and slightly thick lemonade flavor with an alcohol tinge to it. Best served chilled in the freezer in small glasses that have been in the freezer. It is better sipped than treated as a shooter. A derived beverage is Crema di Limoncello , a mix of limoncello and heavy cream, giving it a milder flavour.
• Grappa is a highly alcoholic drink made by distilling grape skins after the juice has been squeezed from them for winemaking, so you could imagine how it might taste. If you're going to drink it, then make sure you get a bottle having been distilled multiple times.
• San Pellegrino is the most famous sparkling water in Italy and considered among the best. It can be found throughout Europe and beyond, but the best place to enjoy its distinct experience is in Italy itself. San Pellegrino can be found in almost every Italian supermarket or grocery store, and is also served in many restaurants. It can be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled.

Limoncello and grappa and other similar drinks are usually served after a meal as an aid to digestion. If you are a good customer restaurants will offer a drink to you free of charge, and may even leave the bottle on your table for you to help yourself. Beware that these are very strong drinks.

Bars in Italy offer an enormous number of possible permutations for a way of having a cup of coffee. What you won't get, however, is 100 different types of bean; nor will you find "gourmet" coffees. If you like that kind of stuff, better take your own. A bar will make coffee from a commercial blend of beans supplied by just one roaster. There are many companies who supply roast beans and the brand used is usually prominently displayed both inside and outside of the bar.

The following are the most basic preparations of coffee:

• Caffè or Caffè Normale or Espresso – This is the basic unit of coffee, normally consumed after a meal.
• Caffè ristretto – This has the same amount of coffee, but less water, thus making it stronger.
• Caffè lungo – This is the basic unit of coffee but additional water is allowed to go through the ground coffee beans in the machine.
• Caffè americano – This has much more water and is served in a cappuccino cup. It is more like an American breakfast coffee but the quantity is still far less than you would get in the States. It started as an attempt to replicate the type of coffee preferred by occupying American soldiers during World War II, hence its name.

So far so good. But here the permutations begin. For the same price as a normal coffee, you can ask for a dash of milk to be added to any of the above. This is called macchiato . Hence, caffè lungo macchiato or caffè americano macchiato . But that dash of milk can be either hot ( caldo ) or cold ( freddo ). So you can ask, without the barman batting an eye, for a caffè lungo macchiato freddo or a caffè Americano macchiato caldo . Any one of these options can also be had decaffeinated. Ask for caffè decaffeinato . The most popular brand of decaffeinated coffee is HAG and it is quite usual to ask for caffè HAG even if the bar does not use that particular brand.

If you are really in need of a pick-me-up you can ask for a double dose of coffee, or a doppio . You have to specify this when you pay at the cash register and it costs twice as much as a normal coffee. All the above permutations still apply, although a caffè doppio ristretto may be a bit strange.

Additionally, if you need a shot of alcohol, you can ask for a caffè corretto . This usually involves adding grappa, brandy or sambuca; "corrected" being the Italian expression corresponding to "spiked". Normally it is only a plain coffee that is corrected but there is no reason why you could not "correct" any of the above combinations.

Then there are coffee drinks with milk, as follows:

• Cappuccino – Needs no introduction. If you don’t like the froth you can ask for cappuccino senza schiuma .
• Caffè latte ( not latte, which means "milk" in Italian) – Often served in a glass, this is a small amount of coffee with the cup/glass filled up with hot milk.
• Latte macchiato – This is a glass of milk with a dash of coffee in the top. The milk can be hot or cold.

Finally, in the summer you can have caffè freddo , which is basically plain coffee with ice, caffè freddo "shakerato" (shaked ice coffee) or cappuccino freddo , which is a cold milky coffee without the froth.

This list is by no means exhaustive. With a vivid imagination and a desire to experiment you should be able to find many more permutations. Enjoy!

In major cities and tourist areas, you can find a good variety of accommodations, from world-class brand hotels to family-managed bed & breakfasts and room rentals, but hostels are really few.

Camping is a good way to save money and camping sites are usually well-managed, but especially during summer, managers tend not to accept last-minute groups of young people (given the high chance of problems that such groups of Italian guys tend to cause), so you'd better book in advance. Farmstays are an increasingly popular way to experience Italy, particularly in rural areas of Tuscany , Piedmont , Umbria , Abruzzo , Sardinia and Apulia . They provide a great combination of good and healthy food, wonderful sights and not-so-expensive prices. If you prefer self-catering accommodations, it's quite simple to find them on the wonderful Amalfi Coast or the less commercial and more genuine Calabria coast. An Italian specialty in small villages are scattered hotels for those who love participating in local lifestyle it is a balance between a hotel and a house.

Hotel star ratings can only be taken as a broad indication of what you will get for your money. There are many marvellous 2-star hotels that you will want to return to every year and many 5-star hotels that you will never want to set foot in again. The star rating, as in all countries, is based on a bureaucratic assessment of the facilities provided and does not necessarily relate to comfort. Often the only difference between a 3-star and 4-star hotel is that the latter offers all meals while the former only offers breakfast.

Electricity

Italy uses 220 V, 50 Hz. It has its own electrical plug design. The standard "European" flat two-prong plugs will fit, but most other plugs from abroad will not, or not fit safely, in the standard sockets. Sockets accepting French unearthed and German-type "Schuko" plugs (used in much of mainland Europe) can also be found quite often, especially in the north, and you'll find adapters for Schuko plugs in virtually all supermarkets. Adapters for other systems are not that ubiquitous but can be found at airports or in specialised shops. In private apartments or hotels you will often find all three types of electric sockets in one room so if your device won't fit in one socket keep trying.

Power surges and power failures are virtually unknown in Italy; the energy, water and gas systems are state-run and very well equipped and maintained since even before WW2; the electrical system is fully updated to the latest tech specs and every household is required to comply when renovating. That includes the remote villages in the South, too.

For a country that was the birthplace of the Renaissance period, Italians value education and learning and the country is home to several prestigious universities. Many of the world's oldest operating universities are situated in Italy and many of the world's greatest minds (e.g. Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Niccolo Machiavelli ) were from Italy.

Although this all sounds impressive, Italy isn't a popular destination for foreign students yet. This is probably (emphasis on probably) because most university classes are conducted in Italian and a limited selection of courses is conducted entirely in English. It all depends on the university you wish to study at. Italian universities charge low tuition fees for all students, including international students.

As you may or may not expect, there is a wide gap between schools in Northern Italy and schools in Southern Italy . Education standards in Southern Italy are much lower than that of Northern Italy .

The province of Emilia-Romagna has some of the oldest universities in the world; the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia was founded in 1175 and the University of Bologna ( Università di Bologna ), founded in 1088, is the oldest operating university in the world, unless you count Al Azhar in Cairo. It also happens to be the country's most prestigious university.

The University of Palermo (founded in 1806) and University of Naples Federico II (founded in 1224) are Southern Italy 's most prestigious universities.

The Polytechnic University of Milan ( Politecnico di Milano ) is the oldest university in Milan and the country's largest and most prestigious technical university. To get admission into the university, you have to pass a competitive entrance exam. One may consider the Polytechnic University of Milan as the "MIT" of Italy.

Some American universities have satellite campuses in the country. New York University for example offers a study-abroad program in Florence and maintains its own campus in the country.

If you are a citizen of a country that is a part of the European Union or the EFTA, you may work in Italy without any restrictions whatsoever. Everyone else including citizens of the United Kingdom requires a work permit to work in Italy. Obtaining a work permit requires you to deal with Italian bureaucracy, which has a reputation for being slow, complicated, and inefficient.

With an unemployment rate of 7.8% (as of 2023), finding a job in Italy can be difficult. Further, the country's economy is notoriously sluggish and there's a huge economic divide between Northern Italy and Southern Italy. An excellent knowledge of Italian will enhance your job prospects in Italy.

Italy is not usually thought of a top destination for career advancement. An increasing number of Italians have moved abroad for work, and they often express discontent over the lack of opportunities in Italy. Some blame the Italian education system for failing to adequately prepare Italians for a competitive job market.

The Italian labour market tends to operate through personal contacts — it's not unusual for Italians to hire their close friends and family members. If you know someone that works somewhere, you can probably figure out quite an easy way to work there, too. It always helps to know people living in the area where you want to work, i.e., network!

Starting salaries range from €800 to €1,400 a month. There's a huge underground black market, though. This doesn't mean working in some kind of obscure crime syndicate: it simply means not being book-regulated. Most "black" workers can be found in small businesses such as bars, pubs and small shops, or as construction workers.

Important pointers

Hierarchy is very important in Italian companies and businesses, which means that you are expected to show respect to people much senior than you. There's absolutely nothing wrong with disagreeing with your superiors so long as you do it tactfully and respectfully.

For emergencies, call 113 (Polizia di Stato - State Police), 112 (Carabinieri - Gendarmerie), 117 (Guardia di Finanza - Financial police force), 115 (Fire Department), 118 (Medical Rescue), 1515 (State Forestry Department), 1530 (Coast Guard), 1528 (Traffic reports).

Italy is a safe country to travel in like most developed countries. There are few incidents of terrorism/serious violence and these episodes have been almost exclusively motivated by internal politics. Almost every major incident is attributed to organised crime or anarchist movements and rarely, if ever, directed at travellers or foreigners.

Violent crime rates in Italy are low compared to most European countries. If you're reasonably careful and use common sense you won't encounter personal safety risks even in the less affluent neighborhoods of large cities. However, petty crime can be a problem for unwary travellers. Pickpockets often work in pairs or teams, occasionally in conjunction with street vendors; take the usual precautions against pickpockets. Instances of rape and robbery are increasing slightly.

You should exercise the usual caution when going out at night alone, although it remains reasonably safe even for single women to walk alone at night. Italians will often offer to accompany female friends back home for safety, even though crime statistics show that sexual violence against women is rare compared to most other Western countries. In a survey by United Nations, 14% of Italian women had experienced attempted rape and 2.3% had experienced rape in their lifetimes.

The mafia, camorra, and other crime syndicates generally operate in southern Italy and not the whole country, and although infamous are usually not involved in street crime. As a tourist, you are unlikely to encounter them unless go looking for them.

Prostitution is rife in city and suburban streets at night. Prostitution in Italy is not exactly illegal, though authorities are taking a firmer stance against it than before. Brothels are illegal, though, and pimping is a serious offence, considered by the law similar to slavery. In some areas, it is an offence even to stop your car in front of a prostitute although the rows of prostitutes at the side of many roads, particularly in the suburbs, suggest that the law is not zealously enforced. In general, being the client of a prostitute falls in an area of questionable legality and is inadvisable. Being the client of a prostitute under 18 is a criminal offence. It is estimated that a high percentage of prostitutes working in Italy are victims of human trafficking and modern-day slavery.

There are four types of police forces a tourist might encounter in Italy. The Polizia di Stato (State Police) is the national police force and stationed mostly in the larger towns and cities, and by train stations; they wear blue shirts and grey pants and drive light-blue-painted cars with "POLIZIA" written on the side. The Carabinieri are the national gendarmerie, and are found in the smaller communities, as well as in the cities; they wear very dark blue uniforms with fiery red vertical stripes on their trousers and drive similarly-coloured cars. There is no real distinction between the roles of these two major police forces: both can intervene, investigate, and prosecute in the same way.

The Guardia di Finanza is a police force charged with border controls and fiscal matters; although not a patrolling police force, they sometime aid the other forces in territory control. They dress fully in light grey and drive blue or gray cars with yellow markings. All these police forces are generally professional and trustworthy, corruption being virtually unheard of. Finally, municipalities have local police, with names such as "Polizia municipale" or "Polizia locale" (previously, they were labelled "Vigili urbani"). Their style of dressing varies among the cities, but they will always wear some type of blue uniform with white piping and details, and drive similarly marked cars, which should be easy to spot. These local police forces are not trained for major policing interventions, as in the past they have mostly been treated as traffic police, employed for minor tasks; in the event of major crimes, the Polizia or Carabinieri will be summoned instead.

After leaving a restaurant or other commercial facility, it is possible, though unlikely, that you will be asked to show your bill and your documents to Guardia di Finanza agents. This is perfectly legitimate (they are checking to see if the facility has printed a proper receipt and will thus pay taxes on what was sold).

For all practical matters, including reporting a crime or asking for information, you may ask any police. The Italian Army has also been directly tasked with protecting key locations, including some city landmarks you may want to visit that might be target for terrorist attacks; in case of emergency you can, by all means, ask them for help, but they are not police officers and will have to call the police for you to report a crime and so on.

Police officers in Italy are not authorised to collect fines of any kind and have no authority to ask you for money for any reason (unless you are pulled over in your foreign vehicle and fined, see "Get around/By car" above).

Possession of drugs is always illegal, but it is a criminal offence only above a certain amount.

The main emergency number, handled by the State Police, used to be 113. The medical emergency number is 118, but personnel of the 113 call centre are trained to handle mistakes and will immediately hook you up with actual medical emergency services. Some regions (e.g. Lombardy) have adopted or are adopting the common European emergency number 112.

There are many bars in Italy that cater to tourists and foreigners with "home country" themes, calling themselves such things as "American bars" or "Irish pubs". In addition to travellers, these bars attract a large number of Italians who, among other reasons, go there specifically to meet travellers and other foreigners. While the motivation for the vast majority of these Italians is simply to have a good time with new friends, there may be one or two petty criminals who loiter in and out of these establishments hoping to take advantage of travellers who are disoriented or drunk. Travelling to these places in groups is a simple solution to this problem. Alternatively, if you are alone, avoid getting drunk!

When entering with a car into a city, avoid restricted, pedestrian-only areas (ZTL) or you could be fined about €100.

As in other countries, there are gangs known for tampering with ATMs by placing "skimmers" in front of the card slot and get a clone of your card. Check the machine carefully and, if unsure, use a different one.

Naples and Rome are the cities with the highest rates of crime towards tourists. These two cities are riddled with beggars and criminals and special care must be taken especially near such locations as the main historical monuments (the Colosseum for example) and the popular gathering places for tourists (Campo de' Fiori Square in Rome for example). It must be stated also that every train station in the country attracts lowlifes, and in general train stations, at night, are not places where one might want to linger too long.

Tourist scams

Read up on the legends concerning tourist scams. Most of them occur regularly in bigger cities such as Rome, Milan, or Naples.

Around popular tourist sites, there are people trying to sell cheap souvenirs. They may also carry roses and say they are giving you a gift because they like you but the minute you take their 'gift' they demand money. They are very insistent, pleading and pesty and often the only way to get rid of them is to be plain rude. Do the best you can to not take their "gifts" as they will follow you around asking for money. Simply saying "no" or "vai via" ("go away") will get them off your back until the next vendor comes up to you.

Another typical encounter throughout tourist spots is the fake 'deaf and dumbs' who enter restaurants or bars, leaving small objects (lighters, keychains, or small toys) on tables with a note asking for financial help. Do not examine their wares; leave them down and they will come back and collect it then leave.

A particular scam is when some plainclothes police will approach you, asking to look for "drug money" or to see your passport. This is a scam to take your money. You can scare them by asking for their ID. Guardia di Finanza (the grey uniformed ones) do customs work.

Another scam involves men approaching you, asking where you are from, and beginning to tie bracelets around your wrists. When they are done they will try to charge you upwards of €20 for each bracelet. If anyone makes any attempt to reach for your hand, retract quickly. If you get trapped, you can refuse to pay, but this may not be wise if there are not many people around. Carry small bills or just change, in your wallet, so if you find yourself cornered to pay for the bracelet, you can convince them that €1 or €2 is all you have.

Yet another scam involves being approached by a man, asking you to help break a large bill - usually €20 or €50. Do not give him your money. The bill he is giving you is fake, but at first glance it might seem real.

The best advice to avoid scams is to get away from anyone you have never seen before who starts talking to you.

When taking a taxi, be sure to remember the license number written on the car door. In seconds, people have had a taxi bill increased by €10 or even more.

Racially-motivated violence is rare but it does make the news a few times a year.

Italians may assume a person with prominent "foreign" features to be an immigrant and, regrettably, treat them with some measure of contempt or condescension.

Tourists can generally expect not to be insulted to their face, but unfortunately casual racism and bigotry is not absent from conversation (especially bar talk, and especially if sports games featuring non-white players are on).

Sports-induced attacks (hooliganism) on foreigners are not unknown, and supporters of foreign teams playing in Italy should exercise extra care not to wear their colours openly on the day of the game, outside of the sports ground.

Road safety

Driving in Italy is fast-paced and widely considered to be wild , especially when compared to other European countries. Drivers tend to change lanes quickly and tend to make hasty, irrational driving decisions. It's common for drivers to drive on the wrong side of the roads just to beat the traffic and get ahead of everyone else.

As a pedestrian, be careful when crossing roads, as not all vehicles will stop at marked crossings.

Stay healthy

Italian hospitals are public and offer completely free high-standard treatment for travellers in possession of an EHIC (EU/EEA citizens) or GHIC (UK citizens). As in other countries with universal healthcare, you may have to wait some hours to be treated unless you're in a serious condition. Emergency rooms are called "Pronto Soccorso". Emergency assistance is granted even to non-EU travellers. For non-emergency assistance, non-EHIC/GHIC-holders are required to pay out-of-pocket, there is no convention with US health insurances (although some insurance companies might later reimburse these expenses).

Italy has a four-colour code of urgency, red being the most immediate (assistance is given without any delay) and white being the lowest (anyone with a red, yellow and green code will pass before you). With a white code, meaning the treatment is not urgent and does not necessitate emergency personnel, you are also required to pay for the full consultation, so do not go to the Pronto Soccorso just to check your knee after last year's fall.

While safe to drink, the tap water ( acqua del rubinetto ) in some peninsular parts of Italy can be cloudy with a slight off taste. With the exception of certain towns that use mountain water for their municipal supplies, such as Spoleto , most Italians prefer bottled water, which is served in restaurants. Make sure you let the waiter/waitress know you want still water ( acqua naturale or acqua senza gas ) or else you could get water with either natural gas or with added carbonation ( frizzante or con gas ).

Rome, in particular, has exceptional pride in the quality of its water. This goes right back to the building of aqueducts channelling pure mountain water to all the citizens of Rome during Roman times. Don't waste plastic bottles. You can refill your drinking containers and bottles at any of the constant running taps and fountains dotted around the city, safe in the knowledge that you are getting excellent quality cool spring water - try it!

Water in southern Italy might come from desalination plants and sometimes may have a strange taste, due to extended droughts, but it is always perfectly safe as the state runs continuous tests. If in doubt use bottled water. Elsewhere tap water is perfectly drinkable and very well maintained. If not, a "non potabile" warning is posted.

Many towns have fountains with tap water that you can use to refill your container, but do not use water from fountains with an "Acqua non potabile" sign on them.

Italy has a reputation for being a welcoming country and Italians are friendly and courteous, as well as very used to small talk and interacting with foreigners.

Culture and identity

Although this is a very broad generalisation, Italians in the North are perceived to be much more reserved compared to Italians in the South.

Despite stereotypes, it is uncommon for Italians to strike up conversations with strangers. Acting too familiar with someone can cause someone to be uncomfortable.

Italians are generally neutral communicators . They make efforts to be polite and respectful, but they are quite comfortable with speaking their minds. Sure, Italians are known for being sociable and talkative, but you should make every effort to be tactful with your words. Just because they seem confident does not mean that they are difficult to offend.

It is common for Italians to ask people personal questions and give people advice on all kinds of things. You can expect to be showered with lots of advice on what you're doing, what you're wearing, how to take care of your home, asked questions about your life story and background, what to see and not see, and so on. Try not to get upset or annoyed at this because the information that Italians convey is meant to help you in a good way, not a bad way. As a foreigner, you may not fully experience this, but know that this is common.

Italian society is less formal compared to other countries around Europe , especially when it comes to introductions. For instance, it's common for Italians to introduce people to friends in a casual manner.

In conversational settings, it is very common for people to interrupt or talk over one another. Shouting to make oneself heard is common, as is the use of animated hand gestures and swear words. What may seem like a shouting match in public may actually be a passionate conversation!

Italians are very proud of their language and people will become noticeably more aloof if you approach them speaking English. Immediately conversing in English with someone may be seen as rude, but since the country receives so many visitors, Italians have gradually gotten used to being spoken to in English and are grudgingly tolerant of this. To get on someone's good side, you should ask someone if they speak English before communicating. If you wish to leave a lasting impression on someone, say Parla inglese? (pron. Par-Lah-Ing-Lay-Zay) to someone.

If you're looking to practice your Italian skills, do not worry if you're not fluent in or if you think you're bad at Italian; any knowledge of Italian (even if you just know two words) is bound to impress the locals.

Once a foreigner has mastered the language sufficiently, though, he/she will be required to start using polite forms of speech when addressing older folk, people who are not in their circle of friends, and any office/store clerk they come in contact with. In fact, using familiar verb and pronoun forms is rather rare except among friends, family, and sometimes peers. The Italian polite form of speech form uses the third singular person instead of the second person singular: "Lei" (also the word for "she", but used for both male and female as a formal way of saying "you") instead of "tu" (you [familiar]).

Italians greet family and close friends with two light kisses on the cheek. Males do, too. To avoid ending up kissing on the lips, first move to the right (kiss the other person on their left cheek) and then to the left. Other than that, the hand-shaking rules are the same as anywhere else in the western world.

You will notice that in general Italians are quite obsessed with fashion and they dress well even in informal situations (this is particularly true in big cities, especially Milan , being one of the world's fashion capitals). After all, Italian fashion is famous worldwide.

However, this doesn't mean that Italians wear a suit and expensive clothes all the time, but if you dress in the 'whatever is comfortable' kind of way (like flip-flops outside the beach, sneakers outside sport activities, pajamas-like sweatshirts etc.) you will be considered 'strange'. Even if most tourists in Italy wear sandals with socks and large short-sleeved shirts, most Italians make fun of them (but almost never will they insult people to their face).

Whole essays can be written about the Italians' relationships with clothes. Three of the most important observations:

• Most Italians (especially young ones from the upper and upper-middle social class) are very appearance-conscious; don't be surprised or insulted if you are looked at askance for your 'eccentricity' in not wearing the latest customised jeans or boots.
• It's important not to judge people in return by their choice of clothing. Styles do not necessarily carry the same connotations in Italy that they would in Britain or some other countries. A woman in stilettos, miniskirt and full makeup at eight in the morning is probably just going to work in a bank. Almost all youths lounge about in skin-tight tee-shirts and casually knotted knitwear (and are very perplexed by the response they get when they take their sense of style and grooming to a less 'sophisticated' climate).
• Sometimes, clothing rules are written. To visit a church or religious site you will need to cover yourself up; no bare backs, chests, shoulders and sometimes no knees, either. Sometimes museums and other attractions can also be strict; no bathing costumes, for example. If you want to visit a church or religious site it's a good idea to take something to cover yourself up with; for example a jumper or large scarf. Some churches supply cover-ups, such as sarongs are loaned to men with shorts so that they can modestly conceal their legs. Even where there are no written rules, bare chests and large expanses of sunburnt skin are unacceptable away from beaches or sunbathing areas, whatever the temperature is. It is considered impolite for a man to wear a hat in a Catholic church. Many women will opt to cover their hair with a veil or shawl when going to church, as it used to be mandatory up until the 1960s, but these days it is completely optional.

Sensitive issues

Historically, Italians have shown frustration with their government due to reasons such as corruption, inefficiency, economic challenges, and political instability. It is not a societal taboo to discuss politics, but political discourse tends to be quite polarising.

Italians in general are modest about the role their country plays (or has played) in the world. This said, some aspects of Italian history (Benito Mussolini's fascist regime being one of them) are regarded with shame and dismay. Younger Italians may be more open about discussing such subjects, but the same cannot be said for older Italians. Fascism is out of mainstream Italian politics and is viewed with contempt and scorn.

Unlike in other parts of Europe, communism has no negative connotations in Italy. For several decades of the 20th century, Italy had the largest communist party in the western world. The Communist Party of Italy was independent of the Soviet Union and associated with good government, many cities have a piazza or major street named after its most important founding figure, Antonio Gramsci, and there are some people in Emilia-Romagna and Tuscany (two communist strongholds) who are nostalgic towards the party.

Italians are often portrayed as "mobsters" in popular culture. It's rude to perpetuate this stereotype and Italians often get tired of hearing of such stereotypes. Generally speaking, the mafia is a rather sensitive issue and many Italians prefer to not talk about it.

The North/South divide is a sensitive issue for some. Unless you have a heart for lengthy, prolonged debates, it would be wise to refrain from comparing the North and the South or bringing the subject up. It's a lot more sensitive in the South than it is in the North.

Italy has twenty provinces and some people in some provinces (for example, Veneto , South Tyrol , and Sicily ) are sympathetic to full autonomy or secession from Italy. If anything regarding regional politics has been brought up, it's best to stay neutral unless you have a heart for lengthy, passionate debates.

Don't compare one city/region to another; doing so is quite crass and Italians may think you are trying to start an argument. Italians are quite proud of their home cities/regions.

LGBT rights in Italy

Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender persons in Italy may face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Both male and female same-sex sexual activity is legal in Italy, but same-sex couples and households headed by same-sex couples are not eligible for the same legal protections available to opposite-sex couples.

Italian opinions have changed and people are now more supportive of LGBT rights, but tend to be more conservative than other European nations. Tolerance of others is part of the doctrine of the Roman Catholic Church, which, at the same time, holds generally negative views of gay sex. Nevertheless, there is a significant liberal tradition, particularly in the North and in Rome. Conservative Italian politicians such as former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi have expressed opposition to increasing gay rights. A Eurobarometer survey published in December 2006 showed that 31% of Italians surveyed support same-sex marriage and 24% recognise same-sex couple's right to adopt (EU-wide average 44% and 33%). A 2007 poll found 45% support, 47% opposition and 8% unsure on the question of support for a civil partnership law for gays. Civil unions for same-sex couples were recognised in 2016, and public opinion on the acceptance of LGBT people as a whole remains fairly positive, with 70-80% of Italians believing homosexuality should be accepted by society.

While more information can be found on LGBT-specific websites, a brief summary of the situation is as follows: while violence is uncommon against openly gay people, some Italians are disturbed by public displays of affection from same-sex couples and stares are very possible. Some same-sex couples prefer to avoid public attention. As is the case elsewhere, the younger generations tend to be more tolerant than older folks, but assumptions should not be made in either direction.

Although most Italians are nominally Roman Catholic, contemporary Italy is in general a secular society, and most Italians are rather relaxed in their religious observances. Atheism and agnosticism are also not uncommon, particularly in traditionally left-wing areas in Central and Northern Italy. While not all Italians respect Catholic religious traditions, even many atheists do, and as a visitor, you should, especially in the South. Many Italian nationalists see Roman Catholicism as an integral part of the Italian national identity regardless of their own religiosity.

Internet access

By law all public-access internet points must keep records of web sites viewed by customers, and even the customer's ID: expect to be refused access if you don't provide identification. Hotels providing Internet access are not required to record IDs if the connection is provided in the guest's room, although if the connection is offered in the main public hall then IDs are required.

Publicly available wireless access without user identification is illegal, so open Wi-Fi hotspots (like the ones you might expect to find in a mall or café) all have some form of (generally one-time) registration.

Certain internet activities are illegal. Beside the obvious (child pornography, trading in illegal products like drugs and weapons), copyright infringement is illegal even if no profit is made. However enforcement of copyright laws against P2P users is lax and cease&desist letters from providers are unheard of, unless using a University's WiFi. Certain websites (mostly related to online gambling and copyrighted material) have been blocked in Italy following court rulings.

There is a free, government run, public, nation-wide WiFi network called WiFi Italia [dead link] , accessible through an app.

The mobile phone market developed in Italy as early as 1993, so reception is guaranteed in the whole of the country, including far off the coast, the tallest mountains, and the smallest villages. 4G internet connectivity is available from all major Italian carriers.

Most carriers offer relatively cheap internet plans with plenty of traffic with unlimited calls and text messages.

There are three main carriers: TIM , Vodafone and Wind Tre . However, it might be best to also check out smaller and "virtual" operators, that often charge less.

Generally speaking, internet plans only include connectivity when under a specific carrier's coverage. Coverage of major carriers is widespread, but it would be wise to check whether your carrier covers your area.

When roaming (especially from a non-EU provider), internet costs can be very high. If you have an existing subscription with an EU-based mobile provider , you should be able to use at least some of your bundled minutes, SMS, and data in Italy at no extra cost. This should save you the hassle of purchasing another SIM and a prepaid bundle. See European Union#Connect and check with the provider of the SIM.

Both the fixed and mobile phone systems are available throughout Italy.

Telephone numbers of the fixed system used to have separate prefixes (area codes) and a local number. In the 1990s the numbers were unified and nowadays, when calling Italian phones you must always dial the full number . For example you start numbers for Rome with 06 even if you are calling from Rome. All land line numbers start with 0. Mobile numbers start with 3. Numbers starting with 89 are high-fee services. If you don't know somebody's phone number you can dial a variety of phone services, the most used being 1240, 892424, 892892, but most of them have high fees.

To call abroad from Italy you have to dial 00 + country code + local part where the syntax of the local part depends on the country called.

To call Italy from abroad you have to dial international prefix + 39 + local part . Unlike calls to most countries, you should not skip the starting zero of the local part if you are calling an Italian land line.

In case of emergency call the appropriate number from the list below. Such calls are usually free and calls to 112, 113, 115, 118 can be made from payphones for free without the need of inserting coins. 112 (standard emergency number in GSM specification) can be dialed in any case for free from any mobile phone (even if your credit is empty or if you are in an area covered by a different operator)

• 112 EU emergency telephone number - Carabinieri emergency number - general emergency
• 113 Police emergency number
• 114 Blue Phone emergency number - children-related emergency (especially various forms of violence)
• 115 Fire Brigade emergency number
• 117 Guardia di Finanza - for customs, commercial and tax issues
• 118 Health emergency number - use this if you need an ambulance, otherwise ask for the local Guardia Medica number and they'll send you a doctor.
• 1515 State Forestry Department
• 1518 Traffic Information
• 1530 Coast Guard
• 803116 A.C.I. (Italian Automobile Club) This provides assistance if your car breaks down (if you have a rented car then call the number they provide), This is a service provided to subscribers to ACI or to other Automobile Clubs associated to ARC Europe. If you're not associated to any of them you'll be asked to pay a fee (approx. €80).

Always carry with you a note about the address and the number of your embassy.

If you are in an emergency and do not know who to call dial 112 or 113 (out of major towns, better to call 113 for English-speaking operators).

A few payphones remain in train stations and airports. Some of them work only with coins, some only with phone cards and just a very few with both coins and phone cards. Only a limited number of payphones (in main airports) directly accept credit cards.

Many companies are shifting their customer service numbers to fixed-rate number (prefix 199). These numbers are at the local rate, no matter where they are called from.

According to national regulations, hotels cannot apply a surcharge on calls made from hotels (as the switchboard service should already be included as a service paid in the room cost) but, to be sure, check it before you use.

Calls between landlines are charged at either the local rate or the national rate depending on the originating and destination area codes; if they are the same then the call will be local rate. Local calls are not free.

Italians use mobile phones extensively, some might say excessively. The main networks are TIM (Telecom Italia Mobile, part of Telecom Italia, formerly state controlled), Vodafone, WindTre and Iliad.

Best advice is to buy a prepaid SIM card (€10 upwards) and a cheap mobile phone (€19 upwards) to put it in (if you don't have a cellphone already that you can use). It will be much more practical.

Mobile phones from Korea, Japan and North America will not work in Italy unless they are Tri-band.

Nearly all of Italy has GSM, GPRS, UMTS/HDSPA and LTE coverage, 5G technology is being rolled-out only in major cities as of Mar 2021. You must provide a valid form of identification, such as a passport or other official identity, to be able to purchase a SIM card. Unless you already have one, you will also be required to obtain a Codice Fiscale (a tax number) - or the vendor may generate one for you from your form of identification. Subscription-based mobile telephony accounts are subject to a government tax, to which prepaid SIM cards are not subject. Sometimes hotels have mobile phones for customer to borrow or rent.

Mobile tariffs used to be very complicated but nowadays most mobile operators offer contracts with unlimited calls and messages to all operators and at least a few tens of gigabytes of internet traffic for about €10/month. Usually there is a difference in cost even for incoming calls from abroad. If you can choose, calling the other party's land line could be even 40% cheaper than mobile.

If at all possible, wait until you leave Italy before posting postcards, greeting cards and other items to friends and family back home. The Italian post is notorious for being slow, expensive and unreliable. In border towns and cities near the borders with France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia it may be best to cross the border to post - postcards from Slovenia to Britain can take just 2 days compared with over a week when posted across the border in Trieste, Italy.

When you do decide to send mail from Italy, there are two services: Poste Italiane (red post boxes, available everywhere) and Globe Postal Service (GPS) [dead link] (yellow post-boxes, available in some shops).

Poste Italiane offices can be found in every town and most villages - look for the PT symbol. When entering the post office you will usually have to take a ticket and wait for your number to appear on the screen when it's your turn. There will be different tickets for different services but for posting a parcel look for the yellow symbol with the icon of an envelope. Most post offices close at around 13:00 or 14:00 and only a central post office in most towns will re-open in the late afternoon.

Globe Postal Service (GPS) [dead link] sells stamps in tobacco/postcard shops, which also have their dedicated post boxes. Rates [dead link] as of September 2018 are: €1.30 within Europe, and €2.50 for international mail. Delivery times [dead link] are "slightly longer than national service", being: Europe: 14 days, international: 18 days. GPS has a feature where one can add videos/photos to a stamp via a QR-code, and allow tracking of the postcard.

The land border can be crossed to France , Switzerland , Austria , Slovenia , San Marino and Vatican City . Ferry service is provided to surrounding countries.

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Italy: History and Heritage

History of Italy

Discover the history of Italy on your private, tailor-made tours with travel tips from our experts.

There are few countries in the world that can boast of histories as impressive as Italy’s. On the one hand, you have the glory and decadence of the Roman Empire, whose ruins still mark the cities and countryside of Italy, on the other, the vibrancy of the Renaissance movement with its globally renowned art and architecture. Despite its storied past, did you know that Italy as a single country is barely even 200 years old? 

Prior to the wars of independence, Italy was composed of different city-states, the Catholic Church, and the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Its varied history makes it a country of contrasts and contradictions –  it is both ancient and new, singular, yet many-faceted. It is this unique characteristic that brings countless travelers to Italy every year, and you too can immerse yourself in its many hues on your tailored, luxury tour of Italy.

In Caesar’s footsteps

The story of Rome is one of the greatest stories in history – of how a small town surrounded by seven hills grew into one of the world’s most powerful empires. From the time of the Roman Republic and Julius Caesar, and the illustrious Emperor Octavian I to the age of the ‘Five Good Emperors’ in the 1st and 2nd centuries, Rome is a city that took on the world and won. In its heyday, the Roman Empire included nearly all of Europe, northern Africa, the Balkans and even some parts of the Middle East. 

Although the Roman Empire fell centuries ago, its shadow still looms large over Italy. Aspects of Roman culture still impact the world around us, from our languages to modern legal systems and politics. Beneath some parts of Rome, sections of the original Roman sewer are still being used. To visit Roman sites in Italy, is, in many ways, to visit the birthplace of western civilization. 

In the city of Rome, preserved ancient buildings stand proudly beside more modern constructions. It’s easy to casually stroll through the city and come across signs of its glorious history – The Colosseum, the ruins of the Roman Forum, and the miraculously preserved Pantheon are all a short walk from each other in the city center.

Eventually, the Roman Empire over-expanded and weakened, splitting into two – the Eastern Roman Empire and the Western Roman Empire. Interestingly, though the Western Empire ended around 476 AD, the Eastern Empire, now called the Byzantine Empire, which was governed from Constantinople (modern Istanbul), lasted until 1453 AD.

Medieval Italy and the Renaissance

Once Rome fell, different parts of the Italian Peninsula were ruled by different groups and kingdoms. As a result, different areas of the Italian peninsula subsequently developed their own cultures, customs, and character. 

This was a time of violence and conquest, yet it was a time that saw a revolution in art, architecture, literature, science, and philosophy. Nowhere is this better exemplified than in Florence. In its heyday, the city was home to luminaries such as Leonardo Da Vinci, Niccolo Machiavelli, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Botticelli, who lived and worked within decades of each other and shaped the world around them. Much of their work remains even today and can be seen throughout Italy and in other parts of the world as well.  

In Florence, you can head to the Galleria dell’Accademia to view Michelangelo’s sublime world-famous Statue of David, as well as the works other renowned artists of the age. Numerous works of art and sculpture that graced the households of powerful families, are housed within Florence’s several other famed galleries. Another must-visit is the Uffizi Gallery, a short walk from the beautiful Ponte Vecchio, where you can view some of the greatest pieces of the Renaissance. The building itself is tremendously historic; it was designed to be the office of the legendary Medici banking family, who governed the city during the Italian Renaissance.

Modern Italy

In 1796, a couple of years after the French Revolution, Italy was invaded by Napoleon. Although his armies were badly outnumbered Napoleon was able to establish a client state. In 1815, this Napoleonic Kingdom was annexed by the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and the idea of an independent country unifying the entire Italian Peninsula began to form. 

However, this dream didn’t come to fruition easily. Instead, over the following decades, numerous wars and insurrections managed to hammer out a unified and independent country in 1871. Despite Italy’s long, and turbulent history, it stands proudly as a jewel of Europe, a country of immense natural beauty and high culture. 

Today, Italian people are famous for embracing their traditions and heritage: from the saltless bread in Tuscany that owes its roots to an infamous quarrel between a coastal family and the Medici of Florence, to the happy hour ‘aperitivo’ embraced by Emanuele II as far back as the 18th-century. On your tailor-made tour of Italy, discover its time-honored traditions, history and heritage for yourself!

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Delve into the region’s culture and heritage as you make your way through some of Sicily’s loveliest cities and towns. Marvel at the beautiful architecture of Palermo and get a taste of the local cuisine on a guided street food tour. Unwind on a picturesque beach and enjoy a boat tour in Cefalù. During a…

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Discover the jaw-dropping beauty of Italy’s Amalfi Coast on this ten-day tour. From the UNESCO World Heritage site of Matera to the culinary landscape of Fasano and the incredible architecture of Lecce, this tour is all about immersive cultural experiences and much more. If you’ve been dreaming of a European vacation, a trip to Italy’s…

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From visiting ancient towns to cruising the Italian Riviera, exploring Tuscany on a wine tour, relaxing by a tranquil lake in Lombardy, or celebrating the Carnevale in Venice, time your luxury Italy tour to match your interests. Discover the best time to visit each region from our experts.

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Italy travel guide: explore Italy and hundreds of popular destinations

Italy is perhaps the most culturally rich country in Europe, and a visit offers one of the most attractive and varied experiences in Europe, perhaps the world.

It is the combination of historically remarkable landmarks and towns, small medieval villages untouched by modern life, and the great diversity of landscapes that make Italy such an interesting destination - but don't forget to spend time absorbing the Italian way of life during your visit.

Amalfi / Capri / Lucca

From the capital Rome and the extraordinary ancient monuments (the Ancient Roman empire, older Etruscan sites, the Nuraghe monuments of Sardinia...) to the high Alpine mountains, from the dramatic coastlines of the islands of Sardinia and Sicily to the beauty of the Amalfi Coast and the hill villages of Umbria and the Marches, there are a myriad of discoveries to be made in many regions of Italy - some already well-trodden by visitors, others less well known.

Find the best places to visit in Italy in our regional travel guides:

North-east italy.

• Trentino-Alto Adige (capital: Trento)
• Friuli-Venezia Guilia (capital: Trieste)
• Venice & Veneto (capital: Venice)

North-west Italy

• Aosta valley (capital: Aosta)
• Liguria (capital: Genoa)
• Lombardy (capital: Milan)
• Piedmont (capital: Turin)

Central Italy

• Emilia-Romagna (capital: Bologna)
• Tuscany (capital: Florence)
• Marche (capital: Ancona)
• Umbria (capital: Perugia)
• Rome & Lazio (capital: Rome)
• Abruzzo (capital: l'Aquila)

Southern Italy

• Molise (capital: Campobasso)
• Campania (capital: Naples)
• Apulia (capital: Bari)
• Basilicata (capital: Potenza)
• Calabria (capital: Catenzaro)

The two principal islands of taly are Sicily and Sardinia

The promenade in the early evening, or sitting in front of a cafe as vespas whizz past carrying teenagers to romantic encounters, are an equally important aspect of Italy. Similarly the culinary heritage of Italy is an important part of your trip, with many delicious regional specialties to enjoy as you travel around (when possible we have included recommendations for local food and wine to enjoy for the places in Italy reviewed in this travel guide).

Bologna / Maremma

To start finding places to visit in Italy simply choose a region (from the main menu) or, if your geography is a litle rusty, use our map of Italy . See also the ' most beautiful villages of Italy ' and the towns and villages that have received the Italian Orange Flag award for sustainable tourism.

One suggestion when you are planning your trip: before rushing headlong to see the 'major' sites of Tuscany or Lake Garda, or the beaches of Sardinia, take a look at some of the less visited regions of Italy - many have a great deal to discover even if the tour buses haven't yet discovered them!

Burano / Matterhorn

You may also like to see our features that look at the history of Italy through the history of its towns and settlements, and are a fascinating addition to your travel planning - see history of Italy or visit the individual travel guides for the Italian towns.

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Aosta Valley

The Aosta Valley is a paradise for visitors seeking outdoor experiences in nature while exploring history and traditions The smallest region in Italy, dotted with the highest peaks in the Alps, it is the ideal destination for anyone who enjoys winter sports and high-altitude walks. Its green valleys and fairy-tale castles make the Aosta Valley an enchanting place to experience all year round.

Piedmont is sure to enchant you with its mountains, hills, typical flavours and uniquely elegant cities An extraordinary heritage of art and history, culture and nature, characterises Piedmont, a region with a thousand faces, one more interesting than the other: cities of rare elegance, mountains that lend themselves to splendid skiing or walking, fascinating villages, hills that are among the best known in the world for their extraordinary wine production.

Lombardy: a dynamic land immersed in the present and reaching toward the future, but with an extraordinary heritage of art and nature Lombardy is a region in the north of Italy known for its industry and finance, of course, but also for its art and extraordinary landscapes, starting with the picturesque lakes and its mountains, Valcamonica and Valtellina in primis. Capital and symbolic city, Milan represents the industrious heart that goes hand in hand with other cities with a vibrant spirit.

Trentino is sure to amaze you with its immense natural heritage, the spectacular splendour of the Dolomites and fascinating sites steeped in history Discover Trentino’s culture of slow travel, taking the time to savour every corner among nature and cultural trails and educational farms. You will find hundreds of hotels offering wellness centres for truly relaxing holidays for the whole family in some of Italy's most beautiful villages, set in unique landscapes.

South Tyrol

Alto Adige is a dream place to discover all year round amidst green valleys and snow-capped peaks Combine the relaxation of spa treatments with the pleasure of fun in the snow for a real wellness boost amidst Alpine lakes, beautiful villages and state-of-the-art ski facilities suitable for all ages. All this and more in the majestic scenery of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Alto Adige.

Veneto, a region of wonder, with cities of art of undisputed beauty, as well as the most pristine nature The beauty of Lake Garda, the charm of the Dolomites, the sea of Jesolo, the hills covered with vineyards and the relaxing thermal baths, on top of an immense artistic and historical heritage, elegant cities such as Venice and Verona, quaint villages and breathtaking landscapes. Veneto is all this and much more.

Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Friuli-Venezia Giulia Friuli Venezia Giulia: a treasure chest nestled between sea and mountains A border region sandwiched between the Friulian Dolomites and the Upper Adriatic, blessed with an immense cultural heritage resulting from the influence of different cultures and peoples, cosmopolitan and modern, Friuli Venezia Giulia will also seduce you with its temptations of relaxation, sport and fun.

Tucked-away villages, secret little beaches and superb nature: how enchanting Liguria is! Liguria is a wonderful strip of land enclosed between the sea and the mountains, with pastel-coloured houses and breathtaking views. With lush unspoilt nature, many small towns to discover and an incomparable culinary tradition, it enraptures the eye and the heart.

Emilia Romagna, a region of unrivalled charm, with immense artistic beauty and unparalleled hospitality Emilia Romagna with its Riviera Romagnola offers beach tourism that attracts families and young people to its shores every summer. Rich in sites of historical and cultural interest, this region boasts a world-renowned wine and food tradition. Skilful hospitality does the rest, making Emilia Romagna an ideal holiday destination in every season. Video credits: Oliver Astrologo

Tuscany will win you over with its unique landscapes, cities of art, thousand-year-old history and fantastic food Tuscany’s magical atmosphere evolves day by day as you stroll around the cities of art, cycle in the parks, enjoy the sea or savour its typical products, in a region with a one-of-a-kind natural, cultural and historical heritage that has fascinated visitors for centuries.

From Assisi to Perugia, via Gubbio, Lake Trasimeno and Marmore Falls: Umbria is a truly enchanting tourist destination Peaks covered in lush forests and large valleys outlined by rivers, lakes and waterfalls; sorrounded by villages and castles, crossed by paths steeped in history, art and culture, in a natural environment that helps to restore the body and soul: Umbria, the Green Heart of Italy, is all this and much more.

Le Marche, a plunge into the history, art and architecture of a region with the scent of the sea and redolent of traditions and hospitality A great variety of landscapes and an infinite range of colours that make the area's natural beauty incomparable, plus an artistic heritage that fears no comparison: this is how the Marches, with an area of no more than 10,000 square kilometres, will captivate you forever.

Sardinia: a journey to the island of the emerald sea, nuraghi, unspoilt nature and millenary traditions Crystal-clear waters, beaches of soft, white sand, granite rocks framed by wild, fragrant Mediterranean scrub: welcome to Sardinia, an island of a thousand contrasts that will also seduce you with its unique archaeological heritage and its people's innate sense of hospitality.

Lazio is not only Rome: landscapes and monuments of Lazio Rome, the capital of Italy and a unique open-air museum in the world, is enough to make Lazio one of the most beautiful and interesting regions. Even in terms of landscape, it boasts an area of great impact and remarkable variety, with its long coastline, beautiful hills and Apennine mountains. A destination to fall in love with.

Abruzzo, a journey through history between sea, mountains, flavours and unspoilt nature in parks and protected areas A region in central Italy, Abruzzo has two souls and one heart. Predominantly mountainous and hilly, it overlooks a beautiful stretch of the Adriatic Sea. Here, you will find the highest peaks of the Apennines, such as the Gran Sasso and the Majella massif, as well as the only Apennine glacier, but also some of the most popular beaches.

Campania offers landscapes, history, culture and a gastronomic tradition that the whole world envies A consistently mild climate, lush nature framing breathtaking landscapes, unspoilt villages and fairy-tale coastlines: this is Campania, a region that sums up centuries of cultures, between West and East, in a single Mediterranean jewel known for its unparalleled hospitality. A destination for the soul, the eyes and the palate.

Molise, a tiny region with grandiose landscapes: come and discover its history and culinary tradition Molise is a region steeped in history, characterised by numerous tasty food and wine delicacies, but also by rich nature reserves and villages that seem crystallised in history. A destination yet to be discovered, amid marvellous seashores and breathtaking high cliffs

Apulia: the sunny region between two seas and warm hospitality in places rich in history Located in the heart of the Mediterranean, it is a magical combination of artefacts, history, art and unspoilt nature, amidst beautiful coastlines and picture-postcard landscapes. This is Puglia, a region of golden beaches and crystal-clear waters, intense flavours and fascinating destinations: Castel del Monte, the trulli, the islands passing through towns kissed by a unique and unforgettable light.

Basilicata, a region of ancient origins, suspended between two seas and with mountains of great beauty Basilicata is a region where the passage of man has left its mark since prehistoric times. With the ancient name of “Lucania”, it is enriched by an incredible artistic heritage. Not to mention its never-boring panorama, which ranges from the Lucanian Dolomites to the Pollino Park, passing through two seas.

Calabria is the region of crystal-clear sea, the Riace Bronzes, Reggio Calabria and Capo Vaticano, a captivating mix of history and beauty Calabria, also known as the tip of the Italian boot, is a region in Southern Italy characterised by the incredible diversity of its landscapes, with the proximity of mountains to a splendid sea that attracts tourists from all over the world.

A dive into Sicily, where a sea of art, culture and nature will seduce you and become eternal love A predominantly hilly and mountainous area, but one that wins the hearts of tourists from all over the world with its wonderful sea and rich cities with a charm all their own. Sicily is a picture-postcard island characterised by the indelible marks of the people who have lived there and made it unique, amidst artistic and cultural testimonies of enormous value.

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The 15 best places to visit in Italy, from Venice to the Cinque Terre

Nov 19, 2023 • 11 min read

Rome should be the centerpiece of your trip if you’re going to Italy for the first time © Kathrin Ziegler / Getty Images © © Kathrin Ziegler / Getty Images

Home to some of the greatest artworks, historical monuments and food on the planet, and with the kind of varied landscapes that you often have to cross continents to see, Italy elates, inspires and moves its visitors like few other countries.

From its art- and architecture-stuffed cities to its astonishing diversity of natural landscapes – dramatic coastlines, serene lakes, pristine mountains, and those famous rolling hills – picking just a handful of destinations to visit in this wonderful country is no easy task.

So how do you decide where to go? It all depends on what you’re looking for in your Italian odyssey, whether that’s history, art, beaches, hiking or even food. No matter your passion, our list of 15 must-see places in Italy should be your starting point.

Best for history

Once caput mundi (capital of the world), Rome was legendarily spawned by a wolf-suckled boy, developed into a vast empire, rooted itself as the home of the Catholic church, and is now the repository of more than two millennia of art and architecture.

Rome should definitely be the centerpiece of your trip if you’re going to Italy for the first time, but there's simply too much to see in one visit, from the Pantheon and the Colosseum to Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel and countless works by Caravaggio. So do as countless others have done before you: toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain and promise to return.

Planning tip: There’s an overwhelming amount to see here, and with limited public transport in the city center, your choice of hotel can be crucial. Map out the sights you’re most interested in before you book – if you want to be at the Vatican at opening time, for example, don't stay near the Colosseum.

Read more: Italians reveal their under-the-radar vacation spots in Italy

Best for a Renaissance fix

From Botticelli’s Venus , emerging coyly from the water in the Uffizi Gallery , to the mind-boggling dome of its cathedral, Florence is a feast for the eyes. This was, of course, the seat of the Renaissance, and there are knock-out names at every turn – Michelangelo in the Accademia, Donatello in the Bargello, Leonardo and Raphael in the Uffizi. 

Further afield in  Tuscany – Italy's most romanticized region – is an undulating landscape of sinuous cypress trees, olive groves and coveted regional treasures. Glory in the Gothic majesty of Siena and the Manhattan-esque skyline of medieval San Gimignano before exploring the vineyards of Italy's most famous wine region, Chianti , and the rolling, cypress-studded hills of the Val d’Orcia.

Planning tip: You’re best off without a car if you’re sticking to major towns and cities since Tuscany has a good rail network. But if you want to explore the countryside, you’ll definitely need a car. 

3. The Dolomites

Best for dramatic mountains

Scour the globe, and you'll find plenty of taller, bigger and more geologically volatile mountains, but few can match the romance of the pink-hued granite Dolomites .

Maybe it's their harsh, jagged summits, the vibrant skirts of spring wildflowers, or the rich cache of Ladin legends. Then again, it could just be the magnetic draw of money, style and glamor at Italy's most fabled ski resort, Cortina d'Ampezzo , or the linguistic curiosity of picture-postcard mountain village Sappada . Whatever the reason, this tiny pocket of northern Italy takes seductiveness to dizzying heights.

4. Amalfi Coast

Best for classic beauty

Italy's most celebrated coastline is a gripping strip: coastal mountains plunge into the piercing blue sea in a prime-time vertical scene of precipitous crags, sun-bleached villages and cliffs rearing up behind. Between sea and sky, mountaintop hiking trails deliver Tyrrhenian panoramas fit for a god.

While some may argue that the peninsula's most beautiful coast is Liguria's Cinque Terre or Calabria's Costa Viola, it is the Amalfi Coast that has seduced and inspired countless greats, from Tennessee Williams and DH Lawrence to Elizabeth Taylor, Virginia Woolf and Jackie Kennedy. Of course, its staggeringly romantic looks also make it one of the best places in Italy for couples.

Planning tip: Yes, driving along the Amalfi Coast is one of the world’s most famous road trips, but often it feels like everyone else on the planet has the same idea as you. Traffic can be nose-to-tail, and parking is effectively nonexistent. Instead, take the ferry between towns or travel by public transport .

Best for stepping back in time

Frozen in its death throes, the time-warped ruins of Pompeii hurtle you 2000 years into the past. Wander through chariot-grooved Roman streets, lavishly frescoed villas and bathhouses, food stores and markets, theaters, and even an ancient brothel.

Then, in the eerie stillness, your eye on ominous Mt Vesuvius, ponder Pliny the Younger's terrifying account of the town's final hours: “Darkness came on again, again ashes, thick and heavy. We got up repeatedly to shake these off; otherwise, we would have been buried and crushed by the weight.”

Planning tip: If you have time, the other major city destroyed by the eruption, Herculaneum, is also worth a visit. Much smaller than Pompeii, its buildings are better preserved, and the location – surrounded by its modern descendant, Ercolano – makes the site even more piquant. Like Pompeii, it’s easily reached on the Circumvesuviana train.

6. Emilia-Romagna

Best for foodies

In a region as overwhelmingly foodie as Emilia-Romagna , it's only natural that its capital, Bologna , is dubbed “La Grassa” (the fat one). Many belt-busting Italian classics hail from here, including mortadella, tortellini and tagliatelle al ragù. Shop in the deli-packed Quadrilatero district – home to food stalls since medieval times – then hop on the train for an afternoon in Modena for world-famous aged balsamic vinegar.

Leave room for Parma , hometown of parmigiano reggiano cheese and the incomparable prosciutto di Parma. Wherever you plunge your fork, toast with a glass or three of Emilia-Romagna's renowned Lambrusco – a world away from the sickly sweet wine that was exported in the past.

7. Lago di Como

Best for a slice of luxury

If it's good enough for the Clooneys and vacationing Obamas, it's good enough for mere mortals. Nestled in the shadow of the Rhaetian Alps, dazzling Lago di Como is Lombardy's most spectacular lake. Its lavish Liberty-style villas are home to movie moguls, fashion royalty, and literal royalty, while the lake's siren calls include gardens at Villas Melzi d'Eril , Carlotta , and Balbianello that blush pink with camellias, azaleas and rhododendrons in April and May.

The city of Como itself is a hotbed of arresting architecture, from the Gothic cathedral to Palazzo Terragni – built by the Fascists as their party headquarters, it’s a classic example of Italian 1930s Rationalism and a striking reminder of the atrocities committed by the regime.  

Planning tip: Como is like the Amalfi Coast – the roads are clogged, and parking is a huge problem. Instead of driving, use public transport; there’s an excellent ferry and bus network, as well as a train line along the eastern edge of the lake.

8. Sardinia

Best for beaches and coastline

The English language cannot accurately describe the varied blue, green and – in the deepest shadows – purple colors of Sardinia’s seas. While models, ministers and perma-tanned celebrities wine, dine and sail along the glossy Costa Smeralda , much of the island – the Med’s second largest after Sicily – remains a wild, raw playground.

Explore its rugged coastal beauty, from the tumbledown boulders of Santa Teresa di Gallura and the wind-chiseled cliff face of the Golfo di Orosei to the windswept beauty of the Costa Verde's dune-backed beaches.

But spend time inland too, and you’ll find some of Europe’s finest prehistoric remains: mysterious nuraghi (megalithic buildings), burial sites so grand they’re known as “giants’ tombs,” and the mountain villages of Barbagia, where locals still practice centuries-old traditions.

Best for sheer italianità

Pompeii, pizza and a whole lot of panache – Naples is a city like no other. Layered like lasagna, each strip of history on top of the last, this is a place where (underground) you can walk along ancient Greek and Roman roads, while at street level there are sumptuous churches, baroque palaces and Maradona – Maradona everywhere .

Outside the city, Vesuvius looms over the time capsules of Pompeii and Herculaneum, while in town, living in the shadow of a volcano gives life a sense of urgency. All that makes for a place like nowhere else .

Planning tip: Naples becomes less chaotic from the water. Taking the ferry isn’t only an option if you’re going to islands like Ischia and Procida – you can also take a boat from the city to Sorrento , Positano and the Amalfi Coast.

Best for a fairytale city

“Unique” is an overused word, but in the case of Venice , there’s no better description. This really is a dreamscape of intricately carved palazzos, gilded churches and world-class museums, all floating on water and crisscrossed by quiet canals.

Avoid the temptation to do a quick drop-in visit to see the main sights – the real Venice is in the silent canals and narrow alleyways, which cast a spell on all who move through them. Tick off the Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco , but then stay on to experience this most precious, and precarious, of cities.

Local tip: This is not the place to run a tight schedule. Leave time to wander the alleys , look inside the churches and artisan shops you pass, and hop on a vaporetto that’ll chug through the islands of the lagoon.

11. Parco Nazionale del Gran Paradiso

Best for hiking

If you're pining for a mind-clearing retreat, lace up your hiking boots and explore over 500km (310 miles) of marked trails and mule tracks traversing “Grand Paradise.”

Part of the Graian Alps and one of Italy's very first national parks, Gran Paradiso's pure, pristine spread encompasses 57 glaciers and alpine pastures awash with wild pansies, gentians and alpenroses, not to mention a healthy population of Alpine ibex, for whose protection the park was originally established. At 4061m (13,323ft), the eponymous Gran Paradiso is the park's only peak, accessed from tranquil Cogne.

12. Mount Etna

Best for thrill seekers

Known to the Greeks as the “column that holds up the sky,”  Mt Etna is not only Europe's largest volcano, it's one of the world's most active. The ancients believed the giant Tifone (Typhoon) lived in its crater and lit the sky with spectacular pyrotechnics; today they simply call it idda , or “her.”

At 3326m (10,912ft), she literally towers above Sicily's Ionian Coast . Tackle the climb on foot, on a guided 4WD tour, or stick to the lower slopes, where you’ll find some of Italy’s most exciting wines being grown in the uber-fertile volcanic soil. Sicily is one of the nicest places in Italy to visit, thanks to its extraordinary wealth of history and architecture, its jaw-dropping coastline and, of course, the ever-welcoming Sicilians.

13. Cinque Terre and the Liguria coast

Best for classic coastline

Liguria’s remote Cinque Terre area is coastal Italy at its most spectacular. Five seaside villages wedged between cliffs, encircled by a national park and connected by clifftop footpaths, this is a place where humanity has lived in symbiosis with nature for thousands of years. People have chiseled terraces into the steep cliffs and grown wine here since Roman times; until the 20th century, the locals got about by sea or footpath.

The villages themselves are gorgeous, but spare some time for a hike along the Sentiero Azzurro, the most popular of the paths connecting them. Cinque Terre may be the best known, but Liguria’s coastline is one showstopper coastal village after another – additional highlights include Portofino , Portovenere and Santa Margherita Ligure .  

Planning tip: This is another area where it’s not worth driving – there are ferry services, but our favorite option is the train, which runs along the coast and stops at each of the villages.

14. Valle d’Itria

Best for picture-perfect villages

They look like hobbit houses – small conical-roofed cottages, often stitched together to form a bigger home but always fairytale pretty, whatever the size. Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot, is famous for its trulli, but you won’t find them all over the region.

Head south of Bari, in from the coast and up onto the high karst plateau, and you’ll find the Valle d’Itria , where the green fields around towns like Cisternino and Locorotondo are dotted with trulli. Alberobello is the center of it all – the centro storico of the town is nothing but streets of them. This is one of the prettiest parts of Italy – truly.

Best for a real city break

Italy’s fashion capital  often gets a bad rap – too international, too organized, not chaotic enough. Don’t believe it. Where else can you go from a Gothic-style cathedral, started in the 14th century, to masterpieces by Leonardo (his Last Supper fresco in the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie is a showstopper, but so is the Sala delle Asse in the Castello Sforzesco , which he painted as a trompe l’oeil forest bower)?

Milan's restaurants pull together the best food from the Italian peninsula, it’s home to one of Italy’s rare cocktail scenes, and its fashion houses are transforming the city’s modern art scene with venues like Fondazione Prada , an old distillery now housing works by the likes of Jeff Koons and Damien Hirst, as well as putting on top-notch temporary exhibitions.

Planning tip: Milan doesn’t really have high and low seasons like the rest of Italy does; instead, its hotel rates rocket up and down depending on whether there’s a major event in town. Avoid Design and Fashion Weeks if you're traveling on a budget .

This article was first published Jun 3, 2021 and updated Nov 19, 2023.

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A blog about travel, history and photography

We are all pilgrims who seek Italy Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

There isn’t a better blogger for your Italian explorations! Indeed, all my Italy travel guides come directly from an insider. In fact, as most of you know, I am Italian. I am born and raised in the sunny Sicily, where I grew up eating granita at breakfast and swimming at least for 5 months a year. Here, I spent most of my childhood and teenage days until I started university. For my studies, I moved in Tuscany where I lived for over 3 years. Just at 10 mins walk from the Tower of Pisa. I cherish those days a lot and remember them as some of the most beautiful years of my life. When I moved to the UK for my PhD, I also spend 2 years in Venice going back and forward from the city to complete my academic research.

I can say that in the past 30 + years of my life, I toured my country from the very South to the very North. I explored most of Italy’s beautiful and diverse regions and small islands. Beacuse of this, I have a vast knowledge of everything about Italy and I also use this in my everyday job as travel specialist for the country. Building a very detailed repertoire of all my Italian trips is kind of an ongoing project. Therefore, not all the places I visited (and lived) are yet on this blog. BUT keep an eye on the page as I update the guides regularly with new places from my past and new adventures.

Me and Italy Now

I am still living in the UK but I visit Italy regularly for both of my job and to visit my parents. Only this year, I have already been four times. Every time I visit, I try to get to a place I never been before. A city, a restaurant, a hotel so I take back with me something new to tell here.

To have a more update status of my Italian trips, you can follow my Instagram here .

Embark on your Italian Odyssey

Italy awaits your exploration and I’m thrilled to be your guide on this virtual journey. Join me as we unlock the allure, unravel the mysteries, and savour the delights of this extraordinary country. Get ready to fall head over heels for the irresistible charm of Italy!

Embark on a journey of practicality with my insider travel tips and recommendations. I’ll guide you on the best time to visit, how to navigate the efficient public transportation system, and where to find hidden gems off the beaten path. Uncover charming accommodations, dine at local trattorias, and create unforgettable memories as you explore Italy through the lens of an insider traveler.

Italy Travel Information

The capital city of Italy is Rome. Not many know, but Rome is not only the largest city in Italy but also the third largest city in Europe . In 2019, just before the Pandemic, Rome was the most visited city in the world. I think that visiting Italy without visiting Rome is really a shame! So, if you are planning a trip to Italy and you never been, check out Rome first!

Italy’s currency is Euro. This replaced the old Lira when the country adopted the new currency in 2002. You can obtain Euro from any currency exchange office or ATM around the country. It’s always better to have some currency before arriving in the country, in case you need to buy anything or take a bus from the airport. In fact, despite many places are accepting now contactless payments, cash is still king for small transactions. Particularly in southern Italy and in the countryside.

Italian is the main language of Italy. Nevertheless, a very extensive range of Italian dialects are widely spoken around the country. Some of these dialects are even considered as a separate language from Italian. This is particularly true for the dialect of Sardegna, or the Ladinian language spoken in the Dolomites/Northern Italy.

Italy has three different types of plugs. Type C, Type L and type F. If you are traveling from the United Kingdom , or any other nation outside Europe, it’s worth to invest into an universal adapter . So that you don’t need to buy one for every destination I visit.

Booking your hotel in advance is essential to avoid last minute scams and stay at your preferred accommodation. I always get the best rates on Booking.com and I booked here all my stays in Italy.

Safety in Italy

Italy is a relatively safe country to get around. However, pickpockets, particularly in big cities like Rome or Naples are unfortunately frequent. As you will walk a lot in crowded places, I recommend to place your passport and cash in a Invisible Money Belt. My best suggestion is to keep on your wallet only small pieces of cash and hide the rest in the money belt. Indeed, this is very discrete and will ensure you can go around safely and without gaining unwanted attention.

Where I have been in Italy

• Vatican City
• Corvara in Badia
• Lampedusa e Linosa
• Caltagirone

Explore Italy by Region

I think it’s easier to organise your Italian trip according to the region you would like to visit. As I said before, my Italian guides are a work in progress. Indeed, I have been to countless places and there’s a lot to write! Therefore keep an eye on this section of Italy travel guides as this will be updated on a constant basis.

Campania is probably one of the most visited regions in Italy. It’s the land of pizza, Pompeii and the idyllic coastal towns that make Italy famous all over the world. Indeed, the bay of Naples, the Amalfi Coast and the scenic Mount Vesuvius are all part of this incredible region. If you want to experience a taste of la dolce vita , Campania is your place to go. Naples is the capital of Campania. No trip to the region can be considered complete without a trip to this bustling, picturesque city. Of course, it’s here that you must to try the PIZZA before going everywhere else. In this regard, I am the living proof that someone can live on pizza and buffalo mozzarella for weeks and being happy as a child with a new toy.

Indeed, had the glorious opportunity to spend a lovely summer in Campania exploring most of it’s postcard locations. Therefore, you’ll find here the most accurate guides to this beautiful region.

Sicily has a special place in my heart because is where I grew up! To me is the place of my teenage summers in Vespa and the scampagnate (i.e. trips to the countryside) with my family. I am not very proud of this, but I started appreciating more Sicily only when I grew up. Indeed, I didn’t have any interest in exploring Sicily on my own when I was living there (what a shame). Maybe this is a normal thing when one grows up into a place.

Of course, I visited lots of places with my family. But I wasn’t more than a kid so I couldn’t appreciate them as much as I do today. Luckily, I came to my senses around my Uni years and decided to not miss any more opportunity for getting around. I visited almost every single main site in Sicily. Now, I am focusing more on its hidden gems and new places to discover every time I go for a visit. Read below all the travel guides to Sicily!

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Top 10 Must-Visit Historical Sites in Italy

Think of Italy and the country’s rich history is bound to come to mind. Antiquity, renaissance, modernity… century after century, Italy has left its undeniable marks on Western culture. Plus, thanks to some amazing conservation efforts, these historical sites in Italy are still around for us to marvel at today!

A trip to Italy just wouldn’t be complete without a historical excursion or two, but how does one even begin to choose a starting point? Well, we would recommend starting by taking a look at this list of our personal favourite historical sites in Italy. Ten fascinating places to go and learn more about the heart and soul of Italy.  

1. Saint Mark’s Basilica

Saint Mark’s Basilica was founded in the 9 th century with the purpose of housing the tomb of St Mark himself. For hundreds of years, it served as the private chapel of the city’s Doge, until it became the official Venice cathedral in 1807. The original basilica was lost in a fire in 932 and the rebuilt version, complete with Byzantine domes and marble exteriors, is what still stands today.

The Basilica is famous for its intricate design, its 8000 square metres worth of mosaics, and its epic domes. The most famous of these domes is the Cupola of the Prophets where a gold altarpiece studded with over 2000 gemstones is housed. This spectacle is best viewed from the church’s main altar, where St Mark’s sarcophagus is kept.

2. Herculaneum

You’ve certainly heard of Pompeii, but you might not have heard of Herculaneum which was the second city to be buried under the ashes of Mount Vesuvius’ eruption in 79 AD. Herculaneum is in fact much better preserved than its more famous counterpart, if not quite as large. It was hit before Pompeii, giving its inhabitants no time to escape and therefore leaving many bodies perfectly preserved here for centuries.

At this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can still discover the town’s temples, baths, houses and taverns. It gives a very real sense of how spectacular this wealthy city once was. Some of its most luxurious villas overlooking the sea remain with details as small as doors and beds perfectly preserved.

3. Area Sacra di Largo Argentina

While attempting construction on a completely different building between 1926 and 1930, the oldest temple ruins ever to be found in Rome were discovered in what’s called the Area Sacra di Largo Argentina. The four temples were built in the 3 rd century B.C., right by the murder site of Julius Caesar next to the theatre and Curia of Pompey.

Nobody knows who these temples were dedicated to, which is why they’ve been pragmatically renamed Temple A, B, C, and D. These days, however, the temple ruins are home to something much friendlier than Roman gods… cats! Hundreds of cats, much beloved by tourists and locals, roam the old temples. They cast some pretty curious shadows when the ruins are lit up with golden lights at night.

Just south of the marvellous Amalfi Coast, there once stood a town called Poseidonia, named in honour of the Greek sea god Poseidon. It was settled in the 6 th century, but eventually fell under Roman control and was renamed, as it is known today, Paestum. What is left of Paestum today is a UNESCO World Heritage site including three of the best preserved ancient Greek temples in the world.

Periodic malaria outbreaks and raids upon the city by the Saracens caused Paestum’s population to abandon their home as the Roman empire was falling. Today, most of what was once a city is buried deep under Italian farmland. Only its ancient walls and the archaeological zone in the middle is open to the public, telling the tale of the long-lost grandeur of Poseidonia.

5. Florence Cathedral

The Florence Cathedral, once known as the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore in honour of that saint, is the fourth largest cathedral in the world. The building of this great Gothic church began at the end of the 13 th century, right atop the site of the old church of Santa Reparata (you can still spot these remains in the crypt). However, the great and iconic dome wasn’t added until two hundred years of construction later and only then was the project deemed complete.

The architects of the Cathedral – Arnolfo di Cambio and Filippo Brunelleschi – are immortalised in two statues outside the cathedral. They stand admiring its decorative pink, white and green marble exteriors. Just beyond their view in the church’s entrance halls sits the epic 1443 clock which tells time according to the ora italica, meaning its 24-hour days always end at sunset.

6. Pianosa Island

Pianosa Island is barely more than a memory of times long gone. Due to conservation efforts, only 400 people are allowed to visit each day, so consider yourself lucky if you get the chance! While Pianosa has been settled many times since the first in the late Stone Age, it is virtually abandoned today. Only a handful of humans reside on the island, alongside the spectacular wildlife it’s famous for today.

Of course, this wasn’t always the case, as there are remains of a Roman town on Pianosa, as well as evidence that several fishing colonies once resided here. Pirates have visited and so has Napoleon (who was a big fan) and most recently the island served as a military stronghold and high-security prison. The prison was abandoned in 1998, but some of the paroled prisoners still reside on the island, running a small restaurant and museum for tourists.

7. Villa d’Este

Villa d’Este is what you might call the pièce de résistance of the beautiful town of Tivoli in the countryside of Lazio , just on the outskirts of Rome . What was once a Franciscan monastery was turned into a spectacular example of Renaissance architecture and lifestyle by the town governor during the 16 th century. It is presently run as a museum and holds a well-deserved spot on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites.

While the Villa’s interiors are gorgeously adorned with frescoes on its walls and ceilings, nothing beats its view of the gardens below. Villa Este’s gardens are absolutely breathtaking, with its many sculptures and over 500 fountains. One of these had a water organ installed in 1571 that still plays today. And as if this architectural masterpiece wasn’t enough, the gardens are also complemented by their own waterfall.

8. Botanical Gardens in Padua

The year 1545 saw the creation of the world’s first botanical gardens in Padua. It consisted of a central circular plot representing the earth, surrounded by a ring of water. Except for some additions and practical tweaks, this is the same layout you’ll find there today. Throughout the centuries, these botanical gardens have also retained their original purpose as a university centre of scientific research.

The Padua Gardens was where botanical science was born. They created the foundation for our longstanding tradition of scientific exchanges and understanding of the relationships between nature and culture. Famous for cultivating and collecting, especially rare plants, there are currently over 6,000 species at the Padua Botanical Gardens. In addition to these, their library containing more than 50,000 scientific volumes is considered one of the most important in the world.

9. Duomo di Milano

The most visited spot in Milan is its great gothic cathedral, the largest of its kind which can hold up to 40,000 people inside. Its construction began in 1386, with the purpose of modernising the area after Gian Galeazzo Visconti came into power. But even so, it took five whole centuries for the masterpiece to be completed. During this time, many architects, artists and sculptors worked on its construction, resulting in a building which merged the Gothic and Romanesque styles.

The Duomo di Milano is covered in beautiful white and pink marble, only upstaged by the openwork pinnacles and spires which decorate the roof. These are adorned with sculptures as well, and as a tourist, you may walk along the roof terrace and appreciate them, as well as the unrivalled views of the city from above.

10. Santa Maria delle Grazie and The Last Supper

The Church and Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie is another outstanding work of Milanese architecture. It was initially built beginning in 1463, but reworked in the late 15 th century by Bramante who is generally considered one of the great Renaissance masters. But, this emblem of the Catholic tradition has not found its way onto the UNESCO world heritage list due to a mere architectural feat…

Within the church’s refectory, on its western wall, hands Leonardo da Vinci’s great fresco “The Last Supper”, painted between the years 1496 and 1497. Uniquely symbolic of the creative human genius, the fresco is available for viewing by the public. This didn’t always seem so likely, however. When the site of the church was struck by Allied bombing in 1943 but “The Last Supper” miraculously made it unscathed. 

There you have it! Hopefully, Oliver’s Travels’ top 10 historical sites in Italy have inspired you to take a little trip of your own. If so, don’t forget to take a look at our luxury holiday villas in Italy , and get in touch with our concierge team if you need any help with your search.

4 Responses

I wish to request booking for a group of 5 Tour of your Historical site as soon as possible.

best regards.

We don’t actually do the tours ourselves, just the wonderful villa accommodation you an stay in as you take in the sights! If you’d like to arrange accommodation, email [email protected] . Our friendly team can help put you in touch with our owners, who often know the best local tour guides to make the best of your trip.

Hope that helps!

[…] but certainly not least, Italy has so much to offer. You can base your entire online MAH degree research on a small part of the country and still have […]

Decades ago, I lived in Italy (south of Rome) for about 12 months while on active duty military service. My wife and I recently had an opportunity to return. Because I was familiar with car travel in Italy, we rented a car for the entire trip. We took only one train (Circumvesuviana). Driving from town to town in Italy is very much like driving in the United States with one notable exception. In Italy, A flashing yellow light means “stop” rather than “proceed with caution”. Of course, driving in the center of any town requires aggressiveness (and a horn).

We stayed in privately owned accommodations every night as a way of reconnecting with the Italian people. The hoteliers were universally happy to have us. We were treated with kindness and respect. Accommodations were comfortable and up to date.

Italy should be at the top of any travel list.

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Explore Italy

Italy’s historic, culinary, cultural and scenic delights are what dreams are made of. From the allure of Tuscan hills, to the majesty of plazas and palazzos. Start the day with a smile, end it with a Spritz, and enjoy every site and smell in between.

A country that's almost impossible to complete

From north to south, Italy is so different and diverse. Around every corner there's a church or a culture or a history to explore. Below's map covers off the major sites and sounds, with more to come.

Take your pick from mountain biking, paragliding, wild swimming, and horse riding through miles of forests and green lands. You can hike for miles or days, with many rifugi - high-elevation mountain huts - available along the trails.

If you’re looking for something more relaxing, the area is home to a spate of new wellness-first eco-spas, and one of the highest densities of Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe. Wherever you eat, be sure to try the canederli. These round dumplings, often served with broth, are a regional speciality.

Another local symbol to keep an ear out for is the Ladin language. In addition to Italian and German, Ladin is one of the three languages spoken in South Tyrol. In ancient Rome, the inhabitants of the region embraced the colloquial Latin used by soldiers and officials. The language evolved over the years but remained true to its Latin roots and is still spoken today.

Access Italy Highlight

Food glorious food. The whole area is rich in local gastronomy.

The Dolomites are the alternative Alps for a new kind of skiing holiday.

Unlike the rest of Italy, there are no crumbling ruins or Baroque masterpieces to see here. However, that doesn't mean the Dolomites don't have an otherworldly atmosphere. Quite the opposite. When the sun hits the rocks, the mountains take on colors ranging from yellow to fiery red, with shades of pink and purple.

Few ski areas create such an all-encompassing sense of being in nature, with the Dolomiti Superski pass giving you access to 16 ski resorts and 1,200 km of wide and open slopes. Back-country skiing (or ski touring), cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are super popular given the panoramic views.

It’s not all go-go-go though. There is a slower, more meditative side to the Dolomites. This is thanks to the region’s food and wine, forest and wildflower backdrops, and luxury spa and wellness-focused hotels and lodges.

The Sellaronda - a vast ‘ski carousel’ loop that stretches over 40 kms.

Gondolas & glassware.

Despite the crowds, Venice remains unparalleled. It clings steadfastly to its traditions, creating an atmosphere where nothing truly changes yet there is always more to experience.

Venice's charm lies in its elusive nature, grand palazzi and quiet alleyways - elements difficult to capture in a mere list of recommendations but best seen via a wander across the city during the calmer moments of dawn and dusk.

Winter brings misty romance, gallery visits, and hot chocolate. Summer offers sunshine, boat rides in the lagoon, and blush-pink peach Bellinis.

Uncover hidden gems like Libreria Acqua Alta - the self-proclaimed ‘most beautiful bookstore in the world’ - or architectural treasures such as Scala Contarini del Bovolo and the church of San Pantalon. But never forget the fan favorites: nothing quite compares to an early-morning stroll through Piazza San Marco for a sunrise over Venice’s still waters.

Access Italy Highlights

Get creative in a mask-making workshop or via a visit to Murano’s glass-makers.

Fashion & food.

Built around the legends of Versace, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana and Bottega Veneta, Milan is famous for its exceptional fashion scene. However, it is also a city steeped in rich history and the perfect spot for connoisseurs of culture and cuisine.

Stop in for freshly baked pastries at a local tabaccaio - literally, the ‘tobacco seller’. Stroll along Via Montenapoleone for up-scale shopping. Drop into the elegant Brera neighborhood or the historic Duomo di Milano. Walk around Navigli at aperitivo time. Then finish the day at the historic opera house that is La Scala.

Milan never sleeps. The city is home to an enormous range of restaurants that go from traditional to fusion, and to numerous acclaimed artworks that include Sandro Botticelli's Madonna of the Book, Giuseppe Pellizza da Volpedo's The Fourth Estate, and Michelangelo's Rondanini Pietà.

Visit the Duomo of Milan or the atelier of a world-famous fashion house.

Wine & truffles.

The town of Bra is a global epicenter of the Slow Food movement, where masters grade the quality of Parmigiano-Reggiano and produce the very best olive oil.

Nearby is Alba - one of the region’s many UNESCO-listed sites - which hosts a renowned annual truffle fair and is a poster child for the good life. The meticulously groomed vineyards of Barolo and Barbaresco produce some of Italy's most coveted red wines, marking Alba as the gateway to the Langhe and Roero wine regions.

The area’s crown jewel? The Tartufo Bianco d'Alba which is often referred to as the world's most famous white truffle. This elusive truffle cannot be cultivated, only grows underground at the roots of hardwood trees, and requires patience to unearth.

Similar to the truffle, Piemonte’s best bits sit below the surface. Despite its allure, the region remains a hidden gem that maintains its local authenticity and charm. This makes it a less explored but deeply interesting destination.

Truffle hunting and tasting tours. Hikes. Barolo wine tastings.

In the words of D.H. Lawrence, “Sardinia is out of time and history; this land resembles no other place.” Given that Sardegna is one of only five ‘blue zones’ in the world - areas in which people live exceptionally long lives - Lawrence was not wrong.

With its crystal clear waters and beautiful landscapes, including the ever-popular Costa Smeralda, Sardegna is a great spot for families and a place that’s attracting more and more attention.

Places worth visiting include the pretty port of Cagliari in the south, and La Caletta which is a little coastal village with a long and wide beach. In the mountainous province of Nuoro you can explore ancient traditions like Mamuthones (Sardinian marks), the treks of Tiscali, and canyons including Valle di Lanaitto and Gola di Gorropu.

Then there’s the food and wine. Look out for local delicacies including porceddu (roasted suckling piglet) and cazu marzu (a maggot-infested sheep’s cheese), as well as the wines of Vermentino and Cannonau.

Cagliari, water sports, gourmet tours, boat tours… Enjoy a slice of Sardegna.

Water world.

Amalfi Coast

The coastline runs from Punta Campanella to Salerno, taking in the picturesque towns of Sorrento, Amalfi and Ravello. Each town has its own unique character, but of course one of the most famous remains Positano. The charms of Capri or the intrigue of Ischia are a short boat ride away for a day trip or overnight stay.

Despite the coast’s popularity and notoriety as a celebrity hotspot, it remains an intriguing mix of sophistication and simplicity. Authenticity still fills the air as farmers cultivate small plots of terraced land, fishermen live off the sea, and vespas slalom through the narrow roads.

The Amalfi Coast is also a food lover’s paradise. Thanks to its Mediterranean climate and sea, every menu features an abundance of seafood, fruits, vegetables and limoncello. The liquor originated here with Amalfi lemons being sweeter and bigger than those found elsewhere. Two world-famous types are grown on the Sorrento Peninsula: the Sfusato Amalfitano and the Limone di Sorrento.

Limoncello classes, mozzarella di bufala tastings, boat trips… Bellissimo!

Apulian architecture.

Puglia is a collection of Italy’s greatest hits: coast, city life, sweeping valleys, warm temperatures, authentic hospitality and seriously good food (homemade orecchiette is a highlight). It’s less crowded than the Amalfi but just as perfect.

There are numerous towns to tell you about, but three will catch your eye:

1. Alberobello. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its concentration of cone-shaped trulli houses. Dating back to the Middle Ages, these houses helped inhabitants dodge tax from the old king of Naples.

2. Ostuni. Nicknamed ‘the white city’, this former fortress is a labyrinth of colorful alleyways with green and blue wooden doors and pots of red geraniums and cacti. Boutiques and souvenir shops sell local olive oil and wine, while the city’s surrounding masserias (traditional farmhouses) are the best place to stay for local culture and cuisine.

3. Lecce. Head here for a mix of Baroque and Renaissance architecture and a collection of modern artisanal shops.

Eat and live like an Apulian with a hands-on orecchiette cooking class.

Art & craft.

Every street tells a story. From the impossibility of historic buildings to the vibrant pace of city life. But with the capital always in motion, it’s easy to get waylaid by the overcrowded sites and sounds. In truth, Rome is more than just its monuments.

Take its local markets which represent the Italian love affair with the slow life. There’s the Trastevere market in Piazza San Cosimato, the indoor market in Testaccio, or the Campo de' Fiori market which is the epitome of Rome’s characters and customs.

Then there’s the Roman food. There are thousands of places to eat and drink so sifting through the overrated tourist traps is a must. Many of the best restaurants remain hidden and are only accessible to the locals, like us.

And finally, for now, due to Rome’s close proximity to Vatican City, numerous religious holidays are celebrated with grand gatherings and street festivals that are worth the airplane ticket alone.

In short, the Eternal City leaves nothing to be desired.

See artists at work as you meet locals and learn about their masterpieces.

Naples is not for the faint-hearted with its fast-paced chaos fuelling everyday life. However, it’s this buzz that gives Naples its edge and authenticity. Tourists tend to skip the city and head straight onto the Amalfi Coast and Capri but, in our humble opinion, this is a mistake.

Between archeological sites, historical tours and finding the best pizza, there are plenty of things fighting (almost literally) for your attention. For now, let’s focus on the food…

In Piazza San Domenico Maggiore you’ll find Giovanni Scaturchio and his family’s pasticceria which has been in place since 1905. Famous for its Neapolitan pastries, here you can try baba sponge cake, sfogliatella (puff pastry filled with cream and topped with fruit), and struffoli (deep-fried dough balls doused in honey).

Other gastronomic highlights include the city’s fried fresh seafood or a plate of pasta and fagioli (pasta with beans and vegetables).

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Travel and tourism in Italy - statistics & facts

What are the leading inbound travel markets in italy, what are italians’ preferred travel destinations, key insights.

Detailed statistics

Travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in Italy 2019-2022

Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in Italy 2019-2022, by type

Travel and tourism's total contribution to employment in Italy 2019-2022

Editor’s Picks Current statistics on this topic

Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

International tourist arrivals in Italy 2019-2022, by country

Monthly number of international tourist arrivals in Italy 2018-2024

Further recommended statistics

• Basic Statistic Travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in Italy 2019-2022
• Basic Statistic GDP share generated by travel and tourism in Italy 2019-2022
• Premium Statistic Monthly tourism balance in Italy 2019-2024
• Basic Statistic Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in Italy 2019-2022, by type
• Basic Statistic Distribution of travel and tourism spending in Italy 2019-2022, by tourist type
• Basic Statistic Travel and tourism's total contribution to employment in Italy 2019-2022

Travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in Italy 2019-2022

Total contribution of travel and tourism to GDP in Italy in 2019 and 2022 (in billion euros)

GDP share generated by travel and tourism in Italy 2019-2022

Share of travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in Italy in 2019 and 2022

Monthly tourism balance in Italy 2019-2024

Monthly tourism balance in Italy from January 2019 to January 2024 (in million euros)

Distribution of travel and tourism spending in Italy in 2019 and 2022, by type

Distribution of travel and tourism spending in Italy 2019-2022, by tourist type

Distribution of travel and tourism spending in Italy in 2019 and 2022, by type of tourist

Travel and tourism's total contribution to employment in Italy 2019-2022

Total contribution of travel and tourism to employment in Italy in 2019 and 2022 (in million jobs)

Inbound tourism

• Premium Statistic Total number of international tourist arrivals in Italy 2015-2022
• Premium Statistic International tourist arrivals in Italy 2006-2023
• Premium Statistic International tourist arrivals in Italy 2019-2022, by country
• Premium Statistic Inbound business travelers in Italy 2015-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of inbound tourist overnight stays in Italy 2014-2022, by travel reason
• Premium Statistic Average length of stay of international tourists in Italy 2009-2022
• Premium Statistic Inbound tourist expenditure in Italy 2007-2022
• Premium Statistic Inbound tourist expenditure in Italy 2019-2022, by country

Total number of international tourist arrivals in Italy 2015-2022

Total number of international tourist arrivals in Italy from 2015 to 2022 (in million travelers)

International tourist arrivals in Italy 2006-2023

Number of international tourist arrivals in Italy from 2006 to 2023 (in millions)

Number of international tourist arrivals in Italy from 2019 to 2022, by country of origin (in millions)

Inbound business travelers in Italy 2015-2022

Number of international business tourists in Italy from 2015 to 2022 (in millions)

Number of inbound tourist overnight stays in Italy 2014-2022, by travel reason

Number of international tourist overnight stays in Italy from 2014 to 2022, by travel reason (in millions)

Average length of stay of international tourists in Italy 2009-2022

Average length of stay of international tourists in travel accommodation establishments in Italy from 2009 to 2022 (in number of nights)

Inbound tourist expenditure in Italy 2007-2022

Total international tourist expenditure in Italy from 2007 to 2022 (in billion euros)

Inbound tourist expenditure in Italy 2019-2022, by country

International tourist expenditure in Italy from 2019 to 2022, by country of origin (in million euros)

Outbound tourism

• Premium Statistic Number of outbound tourists from Italy 2015-2022, by type
• Premium Statistic Number of outbound trips from Italy 2019-2022, by destination
• Premium Statistic Number of outbound tourist overnight stays from Italy 2015-2022
• Premium Statistic Overnight stays for outbound trips from Italy 2019-2022, by destination
• Premium Statistic Expenditure of Italian outbound tourists 2007-2022
• Premium Statistic Expenditure of Italian outbound tourists 2019-2022, by destination
• Premium Statistic Share of outbound holiday trips taken by Italians 2023, by purpose
• Premium Statistic Share of outbound holiday trips taken by Italians 2022, by destination type
• Premium Statistic Travel intentions of Italians in the next six months 2024, by destination
• Premium Statistic Italian travelers' preferred European countries for trips in the next six months 2024

Number of outbound tourists from Italy 2015-2022, by type

Number of outbound tourists from Italy from 2015 to 2022, by type (in millions)

Number of outbound trips from Italy 2019-2022, by destination

Number of outbound trips from Italy from 2019 to 2022, by country of destination (in 1,000s)

Number of outbound tourist overnight stays from Italy 2015-2022

Number of outbound tourist overnight stays from Italy from 2015 to 2022 (in millions)

Overnight stays for outbound trips from Italy 2019-2022, by destination

Number of overnight stays for outbound trips from Italy from 2019 to 2022, by country of destination (in 1,000s)

Expenditure of Italian outbound tourists 2007-2022

Total expenditure of Italian tourists abroad from 2007 to 2022 (in billion euros)

Expenditure of Italian outbound tourists 2019-2022, by destination

Expenditure of Italian outbound tourists from 2019 to 2022, by country of destination (in million euros)

Share of outbound holiday trips taken by Italians 2023, by purpose

Distribution of holiday trips abroad taken by Italian residents in 2023, by purpose of trip

Share of outbound holiday trips taken by Italians 2022, by destination type

Share of holiday trips abroad taken by Italian residents in 2022, by type of destination

Travel intentions of Italians in the next six months 2024, by destination

Share of individuals intending to travel in the next six months in Italy as of April 2024, by destination

Italian travelers' preferred European countries for trips in the next six months 2024

Preferred European countries for a trip in the next six months among travelers in Italy as of April 2024

Domestic tourism

• Premium Statistic Number of domestic trips in Italy 2014-2022
• Premium Statistic Domestic trips in Italy 2019-2022, by accommodation type
• Premium Statistic Overnight stays for domestic trips in Italy 2019-2022, by region of destination
• Premium Statistic Domestic business trips in Italy 2015-2022
• Premium Statistic Overnight stays during domestic business trips in Italy 2022, by destination
• Premium Statistic Number of same-day domestic trips in Italy 2019-2022, by purpose
• Basic Statistic Domestic tourism spending in Italy 2019-2022

Number of domestic trips in Italy 2014-2022

Number of domestic trips in Italy from 2014 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Domestic trips in Italy 2019-2022, by accommodation type

Number of domestic trips in Italy from 2019 to 2022, by type of accommodation (in 1,000s)

Overnight stays for domestic trips in Italy 2019-2022, by region of destination

Number of overnight stays for domestic trips in Italy from 2019 to 2022, by region of destination (in 1,000s)

Domestic business trips in Italy 2015-2022

Number of trips by domestic business tourists in Italy from 2015 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Overnight stays during domestic business trips in Italy 2022, by destination

Number of nights spent by domestic business tourists in Italy in 2022, by region of destination (in 1,000s)

Number of same-day domestic trips in Italy 2019-2022, by purpose

Number of same-day domestic trips in Italy from 2019 to 2022, by purpose (in 1,000s)

Domestic tourism spending in Italy 2019-2022

Domestic tourism expenditure in Italy in 2019 and 2022 (in billion euros)

Accommodation

• Premium Statistic Number of hotel and non-hotel accommodation in Italy 2019-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of hotels in Italy 2012-2022, by rating
• Premium Statistic Number of hotels in Italy 2022, by region
• Premium Statistic Revenue of the hotels industry in Italy 2019-2028
• Premium Statistic Leading international hotel chain brands in Italy 2023, by number of hotels
• Premium Statistic Leading domestic hotel chain brands in Italy 2023, by number of hotels
• Premium Statistic Number of bed and breakfasts in Italy 2010-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of agritourism establishments in Italy 2012-2022
• Premium Statistic Distribution of trips made by Italians 2023, by accommodation

Number of hotel and non-hotel accommodation in Italy 2019-2022

Number of hotel and non-hotel accommodation establishments in Italy from 2019 to 2022

Number of hotels in Italy 2012-2022, by rating

Number of hotel establishments in Italy from 2012 to 2022, by rating

Number of hotels in Italy 2022, by region

Number of hotel establishments in Italy in 2022, by region

Revenue of the hotels industry in Italy 2019-2028

Revenue of the hotels market in Italy from 2019 to 2028 (in billion U.S. dollars)

Leading international hotel chain brands in Italy 2023, by number of hotels

Leading international hotel chain brands in Italy in 2023, by number of hotels

Leading domestic hotel chain brands in Italy 2023, by number of hotels

Leading domestic hotel chain brands in Italy in 2023, by number of hotels

Number of bed and breakfasts in Italy 2010-2022

Number of bed and breakfasts in Italy from 2010 to 2022

Number of agritourism establishments in Italy 2012-2022

Number of agritourism establishments in Italy from 2012 to 2022

Distribution of trips made by Italians 2023, by accommodation

Distribution of trips taken by Italians in 2023, by type of accommodation

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