Italy – History, Architecture, and Living in Style

Italy (in Italian: Italia), officially the Italian Republic (Repubblica Italiana), is a country with a rich historical and cultural heritage. In the past, it was the center of the powerful Roman Empire and the cradle of the Renaissance, playing a key role in shaping Western civilization. Along with Greece, it is considered the “birthplace” of Western culture and has the highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including iconic monuments of art and architecture.

Cultural Heritage and Landmarks

Italy is world-renowned for its extraordinary cultural and historical wealth. The country is home to numerous globally famous landmarks such as the Colosseum (check out our Colosseum tickets page), the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Sistine Chapel, and the canals of Venice.

These historical monuments attract millions of tourists every year. Italy is also known for its delicious cuisine, fashion, luxury sports cars and motorcycles, as well as its diverse regional cultures and dialects.

Italy’s landscapes range from picturesque coastlines to imposing mountain peaks in the Alps and the Apennines, which is why the country is often called Il Bel Paese (The Beautiful Country).

Geographical and Political Facts

Italy is shaped like a boot and shares borders with France, Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia. It is a member of the European Union and offers a wide array of experiences for tourists – from city strolls to mountain hiking.

The country also includes the microstates of Vatican City and San Marino, which are easy to visit thanks to the absence of border controls.

An interesting fact is that Italy is a country rich in biodiversity and hosts numerous national parks, providing diverse opportunities for eco-tourism and outdoor adventures.

Regions of Italy

1. Northwestern Italy

Northwestern Italy (Piedmont, Liguria, Lombardy, and Aosta Valley) is known as the Italian Riviera. Here you’ll find the charming coastal towns of Portofino and Cinque Terre, the majestic Alps, and important cities such as Turin, Italy’s industrial capital; Genoa, its largest port; and Milan, the country’s main business hub. Lakes Como and Maggiore are also popular tourist destinations, offering stunning views and luxurious resorts.

2. Northeastern Italy

Northeastern Italy (Emilia-Romagna, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Trentino-Alto Adige, and Veneto) offers a variety of attractions – from the romantic canals of Venice to Bologna, Italy’s gastronomic capital, from the stunning Dolomites to top-tier ski resorts like Cortina d’Ampezzo. The cities of Parma and Verona are also worth visiting for their historical and cultural treasures.

3. Central Italy

Central Italy (Lazio, Abruzzo, Marche, Tuscany, and Umbria) is renowned for its rich history and cultural landmarks. In Rome, Italy’s capital, you’ll find marvels of the Roman Empire such as the Colosseum and the Pantheon, as well as the Vatican with the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Florence, the heart of the Renaissance, is the highlight of Tuscany, which also includes historic cities like Siena, Pisa, and Lucca. In Abruzzo and Umbria, you can explore scenic towns such as L’Aquila, Perugia, and Assisi.

4. Southern Italy

Southern Italy (Apulia, Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, and Molise) draws tourists from around the world with its lively Naples, the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, the romantic Amalfi Coast, and the island of Capri. The beaches of Calabria and agritourism in Apulia offer unique experiences for visitors.

5. Sicily

Sicily is known for its rich archaeological heritage, coastal landscapes, and culinary delights.

6. Sardinia

Sardinia offers majestic mountains, beautiful beaches, and sea, with historical structures dating back to the Nuragic era. The islands provide an authentic Italian atmosphere and many opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

Microstates

San Marino and the Vatican are two microstates surrounded by Italy. They use the euro and the Italian language and are easy to visit.

Cities in Italy

Italy is home to hundreds of cities. Here are nine of the most famous:

• Rome – The Eternal City has survived invasions, fascism, urban planning issues, and traffic jams, yet remains as impressive as it was two thousand years ago.
• Bologna – one of the greatest university cities, full of history, culture, technology, and delicious food.
• Florence – the city of the Renaissance, renowned for its architecture and art that have had a global influence.
• Genoa – a significant medieval maritime republic; a port city known for its art and architecture.
• Milan – one of the world’s fashion capitals and Italy’s most important commercial center.
• Naples – one of the oldest cities in the Western world, with a historic center listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Pisa – one of the medieval maritime republics, home of the famous Leaning Tower.
• Turin – a prominent industrial city, birthplace of FIAT and the aerospace industry. Le Corbusier called it “the city with the most beautiful natural setting in the world.”
• Venice – one of Italy’s most beautiful cities, famous for its history, art, and of course, its many canals.

Other Popular Destinations

1. Amalfi Coast – an incredibly beautiful rocky shoreline, so popular that cars are banned during the summer months.
2. Capri – the famous island in the Bay of Naples, once a favorite resort of Roman emperors.
3. Cinque Terre – five small, picturesque villages nestled along the steep, vineyard-covered coast of Liguria.
4. Italian Alps – some of Europe’s most stunning mountains, including Mont Blanc and Monte Rosa.
5. Lake Como – a place admired for its beauty and uniqueness since Roman times.
6. Lake Garda – a beautiful lake in Northern Italy, surrounded by many small villages.
7. Pompeii and Herculaneum – two suburbs of Naples buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, now excavated to reveal life during the Roman Empire.
8. Taormina – a charming hilltop town on the eastern coast of Sicily.
9. Vesuvius – the famous volcano with breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples.

Additional Information about Italy

Italy, officially the Italian People’s State by law, is a country located on the Apennine Peninsula, surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea. To the north, it borders France, Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia. The country has the shape of a boot. To the west, it is bordered by the Ligurian, Sardinian, and Tyrrhenian Seas; to the south – by the Sicilian and Ionian Seas; and to the east – by the Adriatic Sea.

Italian is the official language, spoken by most people, but if you travel across the country, you’ll discover different Italian dialects depending on the region. Italy has a varied terrain, but it is predominantly mountainous due to the Alps and the Apennines. Italy includes two large islands: Sardinia, west of the mainland, and Sicily, located just off the southern tip (which resembles the “toe” of the boot). Italy has a population of about 60 million people. The capital of Italy is Rome.

History

Ancient Times

People have lived on the Italian Peninsula for at least 200,000 years. The Etruscan culture existed from prehistoric times until the 2nd century BC. The Etruscans thrived in central and northern parts of what is now Italy, especially in areas that are now northern Lazio, Umbria, and Tuscany.

Rome was under Etruscan control until the Romans conquered the nearby Etruscan city of Veii in 396 BC. In the 8th and 7th centuries BC, Greek settlements were established in Sicily and southern Italy, and Etruscan culture was quickly influenced by Greek civilization. This is clearly visible in some magnificent Etruscan collections; the Etruscan tombs are also well worth visiting.

The Roman State

Ancient Rome was originally a small village founded around the 8th century BC. Over time, it grew into one of the most powerful empires the world has ever seen, encompassing the entire Mediterranean and stretching from North Africa to southern Scotland.

The Roman state had a profound influence on the Western world. Its gradual decline began in the 2nd century AD, with a severe crisis in the 3rd century AD that led to rulers heavily reliant on the military, often being overthrown after just a few years in power.

The empire was finally divided into two parts in 395 AD: the Western Roman Empire with its capital in Rome, and the Eastern Roman Empire, or Byzantium, with its capital in Constantinople.

The western part, under attack from Goths, Vandals, Huns, and many other groups, eventually collapsed by the end of the 5th century AD, leaving the Italian Peninsula fragmented.

Rome then entered the so-called Dark Ages. The city itself was sacked by the Saracens in 846 AD.

Rome shrank from a city of 1,000,000 people in the 1st century AD to nearly a dot on the map by the 7th century AD, and stones from its ancient monuments were used to build new structures.

From Independent Cities to Unification

After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the Italian Peninsula was divided into many independent city-states and remained so for centuries.

In the 6th century AD, the Lombards, a Germanic tribe, arrived from the north – giving their name to today’s northern region of Lombardy.

The power struggle between them and other invaders such as the Byzantines, Arabs, and Muslim Saracens, combined with the Holy Roman Empire and the Papacy, made unification impossible, even though later arrivals like the Carolingians and Hohenstaufens managed to establish some control.

Thus, Northern Italy was under the loose rule of dynasties from modern-day Germany, while many cities, seeking independence, challenged both the Pope and the Emperor – sometimes allying with one against the other.

In the south, the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies – formed by uniting the Kingdom of Sicily and 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 was the Republic of Venice, considered one of the most progressive states of its time. The first public opera house opened there in 1637, allowing paying citizens to enjoy performances once reserved for the aristocracy – leading to a flourishing of the arts.

Italians turned to strong individuals to bring order to their cities, leading to the rise of dynasties like the Medici in Florence. Their patronage of the arts made Florence the birthplace of the Renaissance and helped bring forth geniuses like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. Rome and its surrounding territories became the Papal States, where the Pope held both religious and political power.

From 1494 onward, Italy suffered a series of invasions from Austrians, French, and Spaniards – with the latter eventually prevailing.

After Vasco da Gama sailed the route around Africa and Christopher Columbus (a native of Genoa but sailing for Spain) reached the Americas, much of Mediterranean trade – especially with Asia via the Middle East – shifted, making Italian merchants less important.

As foreign empires like Austria, France, and Spain began to dominate the Italian Peninsula, it remained a center for fine arts and from the 17th to the 19th century was a major destination for the Grand Tour of wealthy young people from Britain and Europe.

Unification of Italy

The Kingdom of Sardinia began the unification of Italy in 1815. Giuseppe Garibaldi led a unification movement in Southern Italy, while the north aimed to create a unified Italian state under its own control. The northern kingdom successfully challenged the Austrians and established Turin as the capital of the newly formed state.

In 1866, King Victor Emmanuel II annexed Venice. In 1870, shortly after France withdrew (because it was engaged in war with Prussia, which led to the unification of Germany in 1871), Italy’s capital was moved to Rome.

The Pope lost much of his influence, with his political power reduced to the Vatican – a result of a political compromise between the Pope and Benito Mussolini in the 1920s.

Kingdom of Italy

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

At the outbreak of World War I, although allied with Germany and Austria-Hungary, Italy refused to join the war. Eventually, Italy entered the war on the side of the United Kingdom and France.

As a result of Italy and its allies’ victory, Italy annexed former Austro-Hungarian territories. However, it failed to gain many of its desired outcomes, and together with the high cost of war, this led to widespread public dissatisfaction. Nationalists exploited this unrest, transforming it into the Fascist movement.

In October 1922, the National Fascist Party, led by Benito Mussolini – a former socialist expelled from his party for his pro-war stance – staged a coup attempt known as the “March on Rome,” leading to a pact between the king and Mussolini.

Mussolini signed a pact with Germany (also under fascist rule at the time) in 1936, and a second in 1938. During World War II, Italy was invaded by the Allies in June 1943, resulting in the fall of the fascist regime and Mussolini’s arrest, escape, recapture, and execution.

In September 1943, Italy surrendered and joined the Allies. However, fighting continued on Italian soil until the end of the war, with the Allies and Italian partisans battling against remaining fascists and German forces.

Italian Republic

In 1946, King Umberto II was forced to abdicate, and Italy became a republic following a referendum. In the 1950s, Italy became a member of NATO. The Marshall Plan helped rebuild the Italian economy, which experienced steady growth by the 1960s.

Cities like Rome once again became popular tourist destinations, as seen in American and Italian films like “Roman Holiday” and “La Dolce Vita.”

In 1957, Italy became one of the founding members of the European Economic Community. Beginning with the “economic miracle” of the 1950s, many Germans began spending their vacations in Italy, with Northern Italy becoming especially popular among them.

It is even said that the spread of pizza (a southern specialty) to Northern Italy began with German tourists who wanted what they believed to be “Italian food.”

From the late 1960s to the late 1980s, the country went through economic and political crises. There was constant fear, both within and outside Italy, that the Communist Party – which regularly received over 20% of the vote – might one day form a government. Many actions by ruling parties aimed to prevent this.

Italy experienced terrorism from both the far right and the far left, including the shocking kidnapping and murder of Prime Minister Aldo Moro, who had recently attempted a “historic compromise” with the Communists.

Some attacks believed to be carried out by leftist groups were later revealed to have been orchestrated by right-wing groups trying to discredit the Communist Party, or by the Mafia.

Possible involvement by NATO’s “Gladio” network – which included many far-right extremists – has been suspected in several incidents. This turbulent period is remembered as the “Years of Lead” or “Anni di piombo.”

Since 1992, Italy has faced enormous public debt and widespread corruption. Scandals have implicated all major parties, especially the Christian Democrats and Socialists, who were dissolved after dominating postwar politics.

The 1994 elections brought media tycoon Silvio Berlusconi to power as Prime Minister; his allies were defeated in 1996 but won again in 2001. They lost in 2006, returned in 2008, and lost again in 2013.

Berlusconi remains a controversial figure in Italy and abroad and has been in court numerous times. Some claim his political career began as an attempt to avoid legal consequences through parliamentary immunity.

Following the 2018 elections, two populist parties agreed to form a majority government in the Chamber of Deputies. This led to an unstable alliance between the anti-establishment “Five Star Movement” and the far-right “League” party, resulting in an unprecedented populist coalition government.

That coalition collapsed in 2019 due to disagreements over handling African refugees. A new coalition was then formed between the “Five Star Movement” and the center-left Democratic Party, but that too was short-lived.

In the most recent elections, a new right-wing government was formed – for the first time led by a woman as Prime Minister (and also for the first time, the Prime Minister belongs to a party that has ideological roots linked to fascism, although it now denounces the mistakes of fascism).

Climate

The climate in Italy is diverse and often differs from the typical Mediterranean climate. In most parts of Italy, summers are hot and dry, with July and August being the hottest months.

Winters are cold and damp in the north, while they are mild and sunny in the south. Temperature differences between regions are more pronounced during the winter.

For example, on a typical winter day, temperatures might be:

• 6°C in Milan (in the north)
• 15°C in Rome (in the center)
• 21°C in Palermo (in the south)

while in summer, the temperatures in all three cities are nearly the same.

Coastal areas can differ greatly from the inland mountainous regions. In winter, high elevations are cold, while in summer, the valleys become very hot. The Alps have a mountain climate – with mild summers and very cold winters.

Italian Holidays:

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

Language

Italian (italiano) is the language spoken by most Italians. Standard Italian is mainly based on the Tuscan dialect, spoken in Florence.

Every region in Italy has its own local language in addition to Italian, which may or may not be spoken by the local population depending on the area.

In cities like Rome or Milan, the spoken language today is typically Italian with some local influences, while in rural areas, local languages are more commonly used; however, most people also speak Italian.

Although Italians refer to these local languages as “dialects,” they are in fact distinct languages – similar to how Chinese languages differ from one another – and some have their own writing systems. Several of them have rich literary traditions, with the most prominent being Neapolitan, Venetian, and Milanese.

German is the second official language in South Tyrol, an autonomous region. Many residents of South Tyrol (69.4% according to the 2011 census) speak German as their first language, though usage is gradually declining.

In Northern Italy, there are small areas where other Romance languages like Ladin – a Rhaeto-Romance language related to Swiss Romansh – are spoken.

Friulian, another Rhaeto-Romance language, is still spoken by a significant minority in the border region near Austria and Slovenia.

There are several Greek-speaking villages in the southern regions of Calabria and Apulia, and it is estimated that around 100,000 people speak Albanian in Apulia, Calabria, and Sicily – many of whom migrated during the Middle Ages and speak the archaic Arbëresh 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 merchants and tour operators in tourist areas. Outside of the tourism industry, you may not always find locals who speak English – but if you haven’t visited Italy since the 1990s, you’ll notice that far more English is spoken in cities like Rome and Florence in 2024 than before.

Nevertheless, making an effort to speak Italian is often appreciated and will likely make your visit more enjoyable.

Before speaking English, start the conversation in Italian and ask (in Italian) if the person speaks English. Always simplify and speak slowly when using English, especially outside tourist cities.

Most people over 50 never studied English in school and are unlikely to know any. Younger people are more likely to speak basic English, often with a heavy accent.

The only people likely to speak fluent English are university students studying foreign languages and those who have lived or regularly travel abroad for work. However, most people will use gestures to communicate.

Romance languages such as Spanish, French, Portuguese, and Romanian are not widely spoken, but they are similar to Italian, so some words will be understood – especially in writing.

In the northwestern region of Valle d’Aosta, there are minorities who speak French and Franco-Provençal. In neighboring Piedmont, it is not uncommon to find people who also speak French.

Italian is somewhat similar to Spanish, so if you speak Spanish, locals will usually understand you with little difficulty – and learning Italian will be easier.

How to Get to Italy

Italy is a member of the Schengen Agreement. See “Traveling in the Schengen Zone” for more information on how it works, which countries are members, and the requirements for your nationality. In summary:

• There are generally no border checks between countries that have signed and implemented the agreement; checks may be reinstated temporarily during significant events or crises.
• There may be identity checks before boarding international flights or ferries – even between Schengen countries – conducted by the operators.
• Citizens of European Economic Area (EEA) countries and Switzerland do not need visas to travel within the Schengen Zone and can stay up to 90 days with just a valid ID card or passport.
• Standard visas issued by any Schengen country are valid in all countries that have signed and implemented the agreement (with exceptions for certain overseas territories). The issuing country may grant additional rights (such as longer stays or work permissions), which only apply there.
• Additionally, citizens of San Marino can enter and reside in Italy indefinitely without a visa.

Foreign military personnel entering Italy under a status of forces agreement do not need a passport and must only show a valid military ID and travel orders. Their families, however, are not exempt from visa requirements.

All non-EU, non-EEA, or non-Swiss citizens staying in Italy for 90 days or fewer must declare their presence within 8 days of arrival.

If your passport was stamped upon arrival in Italy, the stamp counts as such a declaration. Typically, a copy of your hotel registration is sufficient if you’re staying in a hotel. Otherwise, you must go to a police station to fill out a form (declaration of presence).

Failure to comply may result in expulsion. Travelers staying longer than 90 days do not need to fill out this declaration, but must have the appropriate visa and obtain a residence permit.

By Air

Major airports are served by the main European airlines. Intercontinental flights primarily arrive in Milan and Rome, the main entry points into the country.

Most medium-haul international flights arrive in the following Italian cities:

• Rome – with two airports: Fiumicino (FCO) and Ciampino (CIA) for low-cost airlines.
• Milan – with two airports: Malpensa (MXP) and Linate (LIN); additionally, Bergamo (BGY) is sometimes referred to as “Milan Bergamo.”
• Bologna (BLQ – Guglielmo Marconi)
• Naples (NAP – Capodichino)
• Pisa (PSA – Galileo Galilei)
• Venice (VCE – Marco Polo); additionally, Treviso (TSF – Antonio Canova) is sometimes referred to as “Venice Treviso.”
• Turin (TRN – Sandro Pertini)
• Catania (CTA – Vincenzo Bellini)
• Bari (BRI – Palese)
• Genoa (GOA – Cristoforo Colombo)

Airlines Flying to Italy

• ITA Airways (AZ), ☎ +39 892010. The national airline of Italy. It is part of the SkyTeam alliance and shares codes with other carriers outside the alliance. Rome Fiumicino (FCO) is the main hub, while Milan Malpensa (MXP) has a smaller role.
• Ryanair (FR), ☎ +39 899 55 25 89. Many destinations in Italy.
• easyJet (U2), ☎ +39 199 201 840. Many destinations in Italy.
• Wizz Air, ☎ +39 899 018 874. Connects Italy with nearly all parts of Europe, as well as the South Caucasus, North Africa, and the Middle East including the UAE.

By Train

• 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 Zurich
• From Slovenia via Ljubljana to Opicina, a small village above Trieste, or via Nova Gorica and a short walk to Gorizia, Italy

By Car

Italy borders France, Austria, Switzerland, and Slovenia. All borders are open (no passport or customs checks), but vehicles may be stopped after entering Italy for random inspections.

By Bus

Flixbus offers domestic and international routes. There are regular buses between Ljubljana, Slovenian coastal towns, and Istria (Croatia) and Trieste (Italy). Bus services are inexpensive and from Trieste there are many connections to the rest of Italy.

There is also a bus that departs from Malmö, Sweden, travels through Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland, crosses Italy, and returns to Sweden.

By Ferry

Ferries arrive from Greece, Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia. Most arrive in Venice, Ancona, Bari, and Brindisi.

Regular ferry services connect the French island of Corsica with Genoa, Livorno, Civitavecchia, Naples, and northern Sardinia. Barcelona is connected to Civitavecchia and Genoa.

Regular ferry services link Sicily and Naples with North African ports.

A “fast boat” connects Pozzallo on Sicily’s southeast coast with Malta.

There is a year-round ferry service between Trieste and Albania and summer services between Trieste and Piran (Slovenia), and Poreč and Rovinj in Croatian Istria. The journey from Trieste to Rovinj takes less than 2 hours – faster than the bus.

Getting Around Italy

Train Travel in Italy

Trains in Italy are generally good value for money, fairly frequent, but not very reliable. On some high-speed routes, there is a choice between “Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori” (a private rail company) and “Trenitalia” (the state railway). On other routes, either Trenitalia or a regional operator provides the service.

• Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori (Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori): NTV’s high-speed “Italo” trains serve major cities. This is a premium service, and for some routes and dates their prices are lower than competitors.
• Trenitalia: Trenitalia offers a wide range of train types: high-speed trains (Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Frecciabianca), Intercity, regional trains, and international trains (EuroCity, EuroNight).

High-speed trains are very comfortable, travel up to 360 km/h, and stop only at major stations, connecting only the main cities. They require a surcharge on top of the standard ticket price, which includes a reservation fee.

Regional trains are the slowest, cheapest, and least reliable. They stop at all stations.

Intercity trains are somewhere between high-speed and local trains. They are usually reliable.

Types of Trains

Long-distance trains have 1st and 2nd class. A 2nd class ticket costs about 80% of a 1st class ticket. On high-speed trains, you can choose between basic, standard, and flexible tickets. Basic tickets are the cheapest. During peak hours, on main north-south routes, on holidays or before/after large political demonstrations, lower-class trains are often overcrowded.

While high-speed trains between Milan and Naples (including Bologna, Florence, and Rome) cut travel time in half, on other routes – such as between Rome and Genoa, Naples and Reggio Calabria, Venice and Trieste – they still use the traditional tracks with only slightly faster times than Intercity trains.

On longer routes, such as Milan–Rome or Milan–Reggio di Calabria, Trenitalia operates special night trains: Intercity Notte. These depart around 10:00 PM and arrive in the morning.

Buying Tickets

Ticket queues at stations are often long and slow, so arrive early. There are multilingual ticket machines, but queues for these can also be long due to their limited number.

You can also buy tickets online at Trenitalia’s website; you’ll receive a code (reservation code or PNR), which is used to collect your ticket from a machine at the station (“Self-service”).

The site will show you the “best” (usually more expensive) connections, but you can choose to “show all connections” (or “regional trains”) to see slower but cheaper options.

For high-speed and Intercity trains, you can also choose a paperless option. You receive a PNR code via email and board the train directly. Onboard, you just show the conductor your PNR code.

High-speed trains can sell out, so if you’re on a tight schedule, buy tickets in advance. In general, you must buy tickets before boarding. Fines start at €50.

If you’re running late and don’t have a ticket, it’s best to speak directly with the conductor (il controllore or il capotreno) outside the train before boarding.

Trenitalia Travel Card – lets you purchase a number of travel days to be used within 2 months, but you must still pay extra for mandatory reservation services like TBiz, Eurostar Italia, and Intercity trains – ranging from €5 to €25 depending on train type. Details are available on the Trenitalia website and the International Rail website.

Train Travel Rules

You must validate your ticket before boarding most trains by stamping it in one of the white boxes marked “Validate/Convalida.” Tickets that specify the date and time of travel do not need validation.

The cheapest way to travel within a region is to buy a zone ticket. A table near the validation machine will show how many zones you need to pay for between stations. To buy a zone ticket for the next region, get off the train at the last station, buy your ticket, and board the next train (usually departing about an hour later).

Smoking is prohibited in all public places in Italy. Smoking on any Italian train is subject to a fine.

Air Travel Within Italy

The rise of low-cost carriers has made domestic air travel more affordable. When booked in advance, plane tickets for long-distance trips are often cheaper than train tickets. ITA Airways, Ryanair, EasyJet, and Blue Express operate domestic flights. Many small new airlines also appear and disappear frequently.

Driving in Italy

Italy has a well-developed highway system in the North, while the South is somewhat less developed in quality and coverage. Most highways are toll roads. Highways are marked with green signs, while regular roads are blue.

Speeding on highways is now less common than in the past. Automated systems are in place to detect and penalize speeding and dangerous driving. The Italian highway police (Polizia Stradale) use unmarked vehicles equipped with advanced radar and cameras.

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

Fuel prices are similar to those in Western Europe and more expensive than in North America or Japan.

Traffic in major Italian cities is heavy, and finding parking can range from difficult to nearly impossible. Park your car outside the city and use public transportation.

Be cautious of “Limited Traffic Zones” (ZTL). These are restricted areas in many historical city centers, where only authorized vehicles are allowed. Many tourists are fined (around €100) for unknowingly entering a ZTL.

EU driver’s licenses are automatically recognized. If you don’t have an EU license, you’ll need an International Driving Permit in addition to your local license to drive. To have your license recognized, a medical exam is required.

All motor vehicles in Italy must have at least third-party liability insurance.

Bus Travel in Italy

Local Buses

Buy tickets for city buses from small convenience stores, tobacco shops, bus company offices, or vending machines before boarding (in some systems, tickets can be purchased from a machine on board). Buying tickets directly from the driver is usually not possible.

The payment system for most public transport in Italy (urban trains, buses, metro) is based on voluntary payment with spot inspections.

Tickets must be purchased before boarding and validated on board. Inspectors may board the vehicle to check passengers’ tickets and issue fines to those without a validated ticket.

Inspectors are usually identifiable by an item bearing the company’s logo. When issuing a fine, they have the right to ask for your ID and must give you a receipt with the date, time, and location.

They are never allowed to collect the fine on the spot (it is usually payable at the post office). Assaulting an inspector while on duty is a serious offense.

Daily, weekly, monthly, and annual bus passes are typically available, along with multi-ride tickets. These may or may not require validation.

Almost every city has its own pricing scheme, so check ticket prices and availability in advance.

For tourists, it may be very convenient to buy daily (or multi-day) passes that allow unlimited travel within a day or over a specific period.

Major cities usually offer a type of city card – a fixed-fee pass that includes local public transport, access to several museums, and discounts at shops, hotels, and restaurants.

Intercity Buses

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

Ticket prices for intercity buses in Italy are usually lower than train fares, making them an attractive option for budget travelers. However, bus travel times may be longer than trains, and the level of comfort can be lower.

Buses in Italy are generally modern and well-maintained, with air conditioning and comfortable seating. Some buses also offer onboard amenities like free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and restrooms.

It’s worth noting that some cities in Italy have restricted access for vehicles, and certain areas may not be reachable by bus. Therefore, it’s important to plan your trip carefully and check bus routes and schedules in advance.

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

Traveling in Italy with Ride-Hailing Apps

The most commonly used apps are Uber, AppTaxi, and FreeNow, followed by InTaxi, ItTaxi, and DigiTaxi.

Hitchhiking

Hitchhiking in Italy is associated with the hippie culture of the 60s and the idea of being “on the road.” Therefore, it is considered outdated and ineffective.

You’ll almost never see Italians hitchhiking unless there is a serious issue with the bus or other means of transport.

Nowadays, it’s also common to see sex workers standing by the roadside pretending to hitchhike to attract clients, so it’s advisable to avoid being mistaken for one.

Hitchhiking works well during the summer in tourist areas because you may get a ride from Northern European tourists, and it also works in rural areas as long as there is regular traffic (since you’re still relying on luck). However, hitchhiking near big cities or on busy routes is often frustrating.

Hitchhiking on highways and expressways is prohibited by law, and outside of highways, Italians are generally unlikely to pick up hitchhikers.

Traveling in Italy by Bicycle

By default, Trenitalia allows passengers to bring bicycles that are “disassembled and in a bag or fully enclosed folding bikes,” as long as their dimensions do not exceed 80×110×45 cm (slightly smaller than most cardboard boxes). This applies to Frecciarossa (Red Arrow), Intercity, and regional trains. International trains have specific rules depending on the destination.

Traveling in Italy by Boat

Arriving in Italy by sea can be an incredible experience and offers a great alternative to conventional land-based tours. Renting a yacht to explore Italy is a wonderfully immersive way to discover the country.

Although the yacht charter industry is smaller than you might expect for such a popular tourist destination, there are many good reasons to choose the sea route over more traditional methods.

Italy’s coastline, similar to France’s, attracts luxury yachts of the highest standards. Cruising Italy by private yacht is surprisingly comfortable and convenient. The country’s dramatic shoreline is at its best when viewed from the sea. You can take a swim when you please, and many famous sights are located just offshore.

Traveling on a private yacht lets you bypass the crowds and traffic typical in popular destinations.

Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, Sardinia, and Sicily are the main maritime regions – each offering its own unique charm.

What to See in Italy

In Italy, there are so many sights to see that choosing where to begin can be challenging. Almost every village has its own attractions.

• Etruscan Italy. If you’re short on time and can’t travel outside the major cities, don’t miss the incredible collection at the Etruscan Museum in Villa Giulia in Rome. Renting a car gives you access to the painted tombs and museum in Tarquinia or the vast burial complex in Cerveteri – and these are only the sites easily accessible from Rome.
• Roman Bathsuits. Mosaic from the Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina, Sicily.
• Greek Influence. The well-preserved Greek temples at Agrigento in southwest Sicily and at Paestum, just south of Naples, offer excellent insight into the extent of Greek influence in Italy.
• Roman Ruins. From the south, in Sicily, to the north of the country, Italy is filled with relics from the Roman Empire. In Taormina, Sicily, visit the Roman Theatre with excellent views of Mount Etna on a clear day. Also in Sicily, don’t miss the well-preserved mosaics in Piazza Armerina. Heading north, just south of Naples, Pompeii and Herculaneum were buried by Vesuvius and are remarkably well-preserved. In Rome, every street in the center seems to have fragments of inscribed Roman stone built into newer buildings. Don’t miss the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, aqueducts, the Appian Way, and dozens of museums dedicated to Roman ruins. In the north, the Roman amphitheater in Verona is definitely not to be missed.
• Cathedral of Florence, with Giotto’s bell tower to the left and the tower of Palazzo Vecchio in front
• Christian Italy. The Vatican is the seat of the Roman Catholic Church. Although located in Rome, it is officially a separate state. Don’t miss St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums. Rome alone has over 900 churches, many of which are worth a quick visit. Across Italy, you’ll find stunning Christian architecture spanning Romanesque (700–1200), Gothic (1100–1450), Renaissance (1400–1600), and Baroque (1600–1830) styles. While art theft has been a problem, major city churches and cathedrals retain many paintings and sculptures, and others have been moved to city or church museums. Frescoes and mosaics are everywhere and are truly impressive. Don’t only look for churches – rural areas often hide charming monasteries. Most, except the largest churches, are typically closed between 12:30 and 15:30.
• Byzantine Towns. The Byzantines controlled northern Italy until being driven out by the Lombards in 751 AD. Venice, of course, is world-famous, and nearby Chioggia, also in the lagoon, is its smaller reflection. The churches in Ravenna house incredible mosaics. Visiting Ravenna requires a slight detour, but it’s well worth it.
• The Renaissance. Start with Piazzale Michelangelo in Florence for the famous vista. Then explore museums in and around Florence housing Renaissance masterpieces. The Renaissance, spanning the 15th to 17th centuries and thought to have started in Florence, includes countless iconic names: in architecture – Ghiberti (bronze doors of the cathedral), 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 can enjoy Italian cities without entering churches, museums, or Roman ruins. Simply walk around with open eyes. Aside from the Po and Adige river valleys, much of Italy (including its towns) is hilly or mountainous – offering fantastic views. Look up while walking to spot incredible rooftop gardens and classic bell towers. In cities like Rome, note the blend of high-end shops with small artisan workshops. Seek out interesting food shops and gelato places – but most of all, soak up the atmosphere.
• Opera. If you’re interested in iconic Italian operas, they are performed in Milan, Verona, Parma, Rome, Venice, Turin, Spoleto, Florence, Palermo, and Genoa.
• Medieval Hill Towns. Hundreds of them offer picturesque landscapes.

Islands

• Sicily
• Sardinia
• Capri
• Ischia
• Elba
• Procida
• The Aeolian Islands
• Ustica
• Pantelleria
• The Egadi Islands
• The Pelagie Islands

Museums

Every major city in Italy has museums – but some hold national and even global significance.

Here are some of the most important permanent collections:

• Uffizi Gallery (Florence). One of the greatest museums in the world and a must-visit. Due to heavy visitor traffic, pre-booking tickets is highly recommended to avoid long queues.
• Accademia Gallery (Florence). Home to Michelangelo’s iconic statue of David.
• Pinacoteca di Brera (Milan). A renowned collection housed in a beautiful 17th-century building, featuring notable Renaissance paintings.
• Etruscan Academy Museum (Cortona, Tuscany).
• Egyptian Museum (Turin). Boasts the second-largest collection of Egyptian artifacts in the world, after Cairo.
• Acquario di Genova (Genoa). One of the largest and most beautiful aquariums globally, located in the Old Port – completely redesigned by architect Renzo Piano in 1992.
• Science and Technology Museum (Milan). One of the largest in Europe, with collections dedicated to boats, airplanes, trains, cars, motorcycles, radio, and energy. Also home to the Toti submarine, open to visitors.
• Museum of Roman Civilization (Rome). Houses the world’s largest collection of ancient Roman artifacts and includes an impressive 1:250 scale model of ancient Rome around 325 AD, from the time of Constantine the Great.
• National Cinema Museum (Turin). Located in the historic Mole Antonelliana tower – an iconic symbol of the city.
• Car Museum (Turin). One of the world’s largest, showcasing 170 cars that trace the entire history of automotive development.
• Capitoline Museums (Rome). A vast collection of art and archeological finds from Roman times through the Renaissance – the world’s oldest public art museum.
• Vatican Museums (Vatican City). Explore the 54 halls containing the Sistine Chapel, Raphael’s Rooms, stunning ancient maps, and artworks spanning centuries, primarily with Christian themes.
• Etruscan Museum (Villa Giulia, Rome). Features an extraordinary collection of Etruscan art.

What to Do in Italy

Beaches and Swimming

One of the great things about Italy is that its long, narrow shape means you’re often close to the beach – so when you’ve had enough sightseeing, a seaside escape is always within reach.

In many popular areas, large sections of the beach are reserved as paid zones. During the high season, these zones are filled with rows of sun loungers (lettini) and umbrellas (ombrelloni).

You have the right to walk through these zones without charge to reach the water, and you should be allowed to walk along the shoreline in front of them.

In contrast, beaches in Calabria tend to be more affordable: many are free, so you’ll only pay if you want to rent equipment like sunbeds.

South of Rome, there’s a 20 km stretch of free beach within the Circeo National Park. Thanks to Dr. Mario Valeriani – who managed the area after WWII and, despite offers from investors and millionaires, refused any construction permits – this natural stretch has remained undeveloped, allowing everyone today to enjoy its pristine beauty. You’re welcome to bring your own chair and umbrella; only roadside parking fees apply.

While renting loungers for the day isn’t overly expensive at beach clubs, they often fill up quickly. Free beaches are identifiable by the lack of neatly arranged loungers. Expect them to be crowded – on summer weekends especially, empty stretches are rare.

Most beach areas offer full services: entertainment, bars, restaurants, fitness classes, and even childcare. Near towns, you’re never far from a beachfront fish restaurant – or at least a beach bar.

Classical Music

Italy is the birthplace of Western opera in the late 16th century, so it’s no surprise that it’s home to some of the world’s most iconic opera houses – most famously, Teatro alla Scala in Milan.

The very first opera ever written was “Dafne” by Jacopo Peri (now lost), performed at Palazzo Corsi in Florence in 1598. But the oldest surviving opera that’s still performed regularly today is “L’Orfeo” by Claudio Monteverdi, which premiered at the court in Mantua in 1607.

Another key city in the history of opera is Venice, where the first public opera house was built – opening up what was once an elite form of entertainment to paying members of the public.

By the early 18th century, Italian opera had become the go-to entertainment for aristocrats across Europe – except in France. Even in cities like London and Vienna, where Italian wasn’t the native language, operas were still being written in Italian.

Many legendary Italian composers – like Monteverdi, Vivaldi, Rossini, Verdi, and Puccini – are still beloved by classical music fans today. Some of their masterpieces have even found a place in pop culture.

Alongside these local legends, foreign composers like Handel and Mozart also wrote several Italian operas that continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

Beyond opera, Italy played a huge role in shaping other genres of Western classical music. The concerto gained popularity thanks to Italian Baroque composer Arcangelo Corelli, and the symphony traces its roots back to overtures in Italian Baroque opera.

Even ballet – despite its French name and association with France and Russia – actually originated in Italy during the Renaissance.

It was common for European composers, no matter where they were from, to spend time in Italy studying music. To this day, many of the terms used in Western music remain in Italian.

Visit Vineyards

Italy is world-famous for its wine – and its vineyards are often nestled in breathtaking landscapes. The best way to experience them is usually by booking an organized tour.

Day trips can often be arranged through hotels in major wine regions like Chianti or through local tourist offices.

Several companies also offer multi-day vineyard tours that include meals and accommodation. A quick search for “Italian vineyard tours” or “wine tour Italy” will give you plenty of options. These longer trips focus on great food, excellent wine, and high-end stays – so they tend to come with a higher price tag.

If you’ve rented a car and prefer to plan your own wine trail, a handy website is Movimento Turismo del Vino. The Italian version has a link to “itinerari” (itineraries), which isn’t available in English.

Even if you don’t speak Italian, you can still find addresses and opening hours for interesting wineries. Keep an eye out for “Su prenotazione” – that means “By appointment only.”

Cycling Tours

Several companies offer cycling tours through Italy’s scenic countryside. These trips usually include the bike, a guide, and transport for your luggage – and even for you, if the ride gets too tough.

There’s something for every interest, and tours typically move from one town and hotel to another each day. If you’re into biking, it’s a fantastic way to explore Italy beyond the usual tourist routes.

Sailing

Sailing is one of the most unforgettable ways to explore Italian islands like Sardinia and Sicily. Most charter companies offer everything from full boat rentals to crewed options and cabin charters – across a wide range of boat types.

Watching Sports

Italy has a serious passion for sports – football, rugby, and a few others all have fiercely loyal (and sometimes rowdy) fans.

Back in the 1980s, Italy was one of the first European countries to embrace American football, but scandals and corruption in the national federation caused interest to fade over time.

Cycling fans should know about the Giro d’Italia – one of the world’s top races, held over three weeks each May. There are also many smaller events that can unexpectedly block roads when they roll through town.

Shopping

Money

Italy uses the euro, just like many other European countries. The official symbol is €, and its code is EUR. There’s no official symbol for the cent.

All euro notes and coins are valid across the eurozone. However, low-value coins (one and two cents) have been phased out in some countries.

Banknotes look the same everywhere, while coins share a standard design on one side (showing the value) and feature country-specific designs on the other.

You’ll also spot commemorative coins with unique front designs – these variations don’t affect where they can be used.

In 2018, Italy stopped using one- and two-cent coins, rounding prices to the nearest five cents.

Tipping

Tipping (known as la mancia in Italian) isn’t a big part of Italian culture, but it’s appreciated for exceptional service or when you want to show extra gratitude.

Most restaurants – except those in Rome – include a service charge (coperto), so waitstaff don’t usually expect tips. That said, they won’t turn one down if you leave a little extra.

In cafés, bars, and pubs, it’s common to leave your small change behind and tell the server or cashier “tenga il resto” – which means “keep the change.”

Tip jars are increasingly common near the register, though you won’t find them in public restrooms, where tipping is often discouraged. Taxi drivers often receive the change as a tip, and hotel porters may expect a small token.

Keep in mind that you can’t add a tip manually to a credit card bill in most places, so have some cash on hand if you want to leave a gratuity.

Shopping

Italy isn’t exactly known for being a budget destination – its cities are generally more expensive than the suburbs and countryside. Typically, southern Italy is cheaper than the north, especially when it comes to food, though this can vary depending on the location.

Meals can cost just a few euros if you’re happy with a sandwich or falafel from a street vendor. Restaurant prices range from around €10 for a basic meal like a burger with fries or a salad and soft drink at a pub, to about €20 for a sit-down meal with an appetizer, main course, and water at a casual restaurant.

Unless stated otherwise, prices include sales tax (IVA – similar to VAT), which is 22% for most goods and 10% at restaurants and hotels.

Some items, like books, are taxed at just 4%. You don’t really need to worry about this, as the tax is already included in the displayed price.

Non-EU residents are eligible for a VAT refund on goods that will be taken out of the European Union.

Look out for shops displaying a Tax Free sticker in the window. Ask for a tax-free voucher before leaving the store and have your passport with you. The goods must be unused and unopened when you go through customs upon departure.

If you’re exploring the countryside, don’t rely too heavily on credit cards – many small towns accept them only in a few shops and restaurants. Cash is still king across much of Italy.

Opening Hours

Opening hours in Italy can be unpredictable and vary from place to place. Don’t assume shops are open all day, and always double-check before heading out. Generally speaking, here’s what to expect:

• Most shops close for lunch (usually between 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM)
• Hair salons are closed on Mondays
• Banks are open to the public for only around 4 hours in the morning and just one hour in the afternoon
• Restaurants typically don’t open before 11:30 AM for lunch and 7:00 PM for dinner
• Many shops are closed on Sundays, and some also close on Mondays – but even during the rest of the week, expect at least one day when a shop might be closed

What to Buy

Italy is a fantastic place for all kinds of shopping. Most cities, towns, and even villages offer a wide range of stores – from sleek boutiques and large shopping centers to small art galleries, grocery shops, antique stores, and newspaper stands.

Food is definitely one of the best souvenirs you can bring home from Italy. There are thousands of pasta shapes (not just spaghetti or macaroni). Every region has its own local specialties like cheese, wine, ham, salami, butter, and vinegar.

Don’t forget to grab a jar of Nutella! Keep in mind that some non-EU countries (especially the U.S., Australia, and New Zealand) have strict regulations on what food products you can bring in from abroad.

Cured meats (and other uncooked products) bought in Italy might not be allowed in your country – so double-check with your embassy or customs before spending money on something that might be confiscated.

Italian fashion is world-famous. Many of the top global brands are either based in Italy or were founded there.

Milan is Italy’s fashion and design capital. Here, you’ll find nearly every major brand – not just Italian, but also French, British, American, Swedish, and Spanish.

The main shopping hub is Via Montenapoleone, but streets like Via della Spiga, Via Manzoni, Via Sant’Andrea, and Corso Vittorio Emanuele are just as luxurious, though slightly less known.

Corso Buenos Aires is the spot for mass-market or affordable shopping. And don’t miss the gorgeous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in the center, or Via Dante, both lined with designer boutiques. Pretty much every street in central Milan has clothing stores.

Rome and Florence are also big names in fashion, proud to be home to some of Italy’s oldest fashion and jewelry houses.

In Rome, the chic and elegant Via dei Condotti, which leads to the Spanish Steps, is your main fashion hotspot. Don’t overlook side streets like Via dei Babuino, Via Borgognona, Via Frattina, Via del Corso, and Piazza di Spagna.

In Florence, Via de’ Tornabuoni is the top street for haute couture, filled with luxury brands. But in both cities, you’ll find a mix of high-end and boutique fashion all throughout the city centers.

Prestigious brands like Armani, Gucci, and Prada are of course easy to find across Italy – but since their prices are set internationally, they might not be much cheaper than in your home country.

Jewelry and accessories are also easy to come by in Italy. Vicenza and Valenza are considered the jewelry capitals, also known for their fine silver and gold craftsmanship.

Across the country – especially in Vicenza, Milan, Valenza, Rome, Naples, Florence, and Venice – you’ll find hundreds of jewelry or silver boutiques. Aside from the famous names, there are also hidden gems and unique artisan shops worth exploring.

Italy is rightly proud of its design and furniture industries. You’ll find high-quality furniture shops everywhere, but Milan is the place to go for top-tier furniture at the best prices.

Many Italian cities also have fantastic antique furniture stores, so you can choose between cutting-edge contemporary pieces or beautiful vintage finds – all usually of solid quality.

Glassware is something Venice is uniquely known for, but it’s available all over the country. Venice is famous for Murano glass – crafted in all sorts of colors and styles.

Here, you can buy glasses, crystal chandeliers, candle holders, and decorations made from colorful blown glass – ranging from modern and fun designs to timeless classics.

Books are easy to find in bookstores across every city. Major bookstore and publishing chains in Italy include Mondadori, Feltrinelli, Hoepli, and Rizzoli.

Most large bookstores are in Milan, Turin, and nearby Monza – hubs of Italy’s publishing industry (Turin was even named World Book Capital in 2006). Other cities, like Rome, also have plenty of bookstores. Just note that 99% of books sold will be in Italian.

Art shops are scattered across Italy, especially in Florence, Rome, and Venice. In Florence, the best area for buying art is the Oltrarno, where many workshops sell replicas of famous paintings.

Depending on the city, you can often find replicas of iconic local works, or rare galleries with sculptures and fun, eclectic collections both modern and historic.

Shopping Etiquette

In small or medium-sized stores, it’s customary to greet the staff when entering, rather than waiting until you’re at the counter. A friendly “Buongiorno” or “Buonasera” helps warm the atmosphere.

When paying, staff typically expect you to place your coins on a surface or in the provided dish rather than handing money directly into their hands (an old etiquette practice to avoid dropping coins), and they will do the same when giving you change (“il resto”). This is normal practice and is not meant to be rude.

Haggling is very rare and happens only with street vendors. They usually start with a price much higher than what they’re willing to accept, and paying the initial asking price is a sure way to be overcharged.

Street vendors often sell counterfeit goods (some are quite convincing), and expecting to get a Gucci bag for €30 off the street isn’t realistic.

In all other situations, bargaining won’t get you far. Always be cautious about counterfeit items: Italian laws can impose fines up to €3,000 on buyers (this mostly applies to luxury branded clothing or accessories).

Food

As one of the world’s most celebrated culinary traditions, it’s no surprise that Italian food can be excellent. Unfortunately, there are also plenty of tourist traps serving overpriced and mediocre meals.

That’s why finding the right place to eat is important – preferably somewhere frequented by locals. If possible, ask locals for recommendations, check with your hotel, or browse online reviews.

One downside is that it’s rare to find English-speaking servers outside touristy areas, so be prepared to use a little Italian.

Dining Etiquette

Italians generally have a special relationship with food. While table manners in Italy tend to follow standard European norms, there are a few uniquely Italian rules to keep in mind during your stay.

Since Italy welcomes so many visitors, cultural mistakes are usually forgiven. Still, if you want to charm the locals and embrace the Italian dining customs, remember the following:

• Most Italians drink cappuccino with breakfast. Ordering a cappuccino after breakfast is considered odd by most Italians and servers. If you’re hankering for coffee later in the day, ask for a macchiato instead.
• Never criticize someone’s food – it’s seen as deeply impolite.
• Never complain about food served to you in a restaurant – it can be considered extremely rude, and staff won’t hesitate to stand by the quality of their cooking. Also, don’t expect waitstaff to cater to every whim.
• Avoid telling someone how to improve their cooking – Italians can take offense at that.
• Don’t confuse Italian food with Italian-American cuisine – they’re different and should be treated as such.
• Don’t rush your meals. Dining with Italian friends or colleagues can stretch over hours. Savor it!
• Never decline a lunch invitation – especially a business one. That’s considered incredibly rude and offensive to your Italian hosts.

The Cuisine

In Italy, cooking is considered an art. Renowned chefs like Gualtiero Marchesi and Gianfranco Vissani are seen as part celebrity, part wizard.

Italians take extraordinary pride in their culinary traditions, and they love both eating – and talking – about food. However, they don’t appreciate clichés like “Italian food is just pizza and spaghetti.”

They also dislike “twisted” versions of their dishes, and many Italians struggle with the idea that a tourist might not even know how to properly cook a basic pasta.

Italian food in Italy is different from the “Italian” food marketed abroad. It’s truly one of the most diverse cuisines in the world – and every region – even every town – offers unique specialties.

For example, it’s misleading to say Northern Italy’s cuisine is all about hearty potatoes and rice, Central Italy is pasta and roasted meats, and Southern Italy is vegetables, pizza, pasta, and seafood – there’s so much cross-influence that it’s hard to categorize neatly.

Besides, Italian cuisine isn’t just about pasta and tomato sauce – that’s only a small part. Rice, potatoes, lentils, soups, and other comfort dishes are widely popular in many regions.

Italian cuisine relies on many ingredients, and locals often develop very refined tastes that might feel odd to a visitor.

For instance, a sandwich kiosk might offer four different ham sandwiches that all include ham, cheese, and mayonnaise. What differs is only the type of ham or cheese.

Rusticella and panzerotti are two examples of sandwiches loved by both Italians and tourists. Instead of big sandwiches stacked with meats, veggies, and cheese, Italian sandwiches are often small, flat (even flatter when warmed and pressed on a grill), and feature just a few simple ingredients, often with no lettuce or mayo.

The term “panini” can be confusing for travelers from Northern Europe – where it’s assumed to mean a grilled sandwich.
In Italy, the term simply means “bread rolls” (plural of panino), which can be plain or filled.

Italian pasta is typically served with a variety of sauces – not just tomato or Alfredo – and often uses a light sauce. That’s partly because pasta is often the primo course in a three- or four-course meal, not the main event.

Typical Meal Structure: On weekdays, Italians generally have a light breakfast, a single-course lunch, and a single-course dinner. Coffee fits in almost any time – especially around 10 a.m. or after a meal.

On weekends and at restaurants for special occasions, a full meal might include: antipasti (starters like marinated vegetables, cold cuts, seafood, and more), primo (pasta, risotto or soup), secondo (meat or fish dish, often with a side called contorno), and dolce (dessert).

Italian food (like language and culture) varies by region, and local ingredients are key. In warm Naples, citrus and fresh fruits are staples in dishes and drinks; in Venice, fish is a traditional staple.

Breakfast in Italy is very light – often just a cappuccino or coffee with a pastry (capuccino e cornetto), or maybe a slice of bread with jam. Don’t expect a hearty breakfast unless you know otherwise.

It’s uncommon in Italy to eat bacon and eggs – or similarly heavy fare – for breakfast – just the thought can feel strange to many locals. Salty food isn’t part of the morning meal. Plus, cappuccino is strictly a breakfast beverage. Ordering one after lunch or dinner is seen as quirky and very touristy. A small espresso is considered more suitable for digestion.

Another favorite Italian breakfast treat is a cornetto (plural cornetti) – a croissant-like pastry often filled with jam, cream, or chocolate.

Meal times in Italy can be quite different from elsewhere in Europe. Lunch is so important that Italians carve out an hour just to eat (and traditionally, another hour for a nap). Shops close and reopen after a two-hour break.

To make up for that, businesses stay open later than in most other European cities – often until around 8 p.m.

In small towns, it might be hard to find a place open during the “pausa pranzo” (lunch break), but that’s less of an issue in bigger city centers or shopping areas.

Dinner times vary across regions: up north, it’s typically around 8 p.m. (occasionally as early as 7 p.m. at home), but as you go further south, it stretches later – up to 10 p.m.

Don’t expect the focused, attentive service common in American restaurants. In Italy, that kind of service is often seen as a bit overbearing – people just want to enjoy their meal. Expect the waiter to check in after the first course, maybe offer a second course.

The most famous dishes – like pizza or spaghetti – can feel mundane to some Italians, so exploring regional local specialties can be a delicious adventure. Even something as simple as pizza varies widely: the Neapolitan version has a thick, soft crust, while Roman pizza is noticeably thinner and crispier. Both, however, have thin crusts compared to American styles.

Dining out with Italians? Read the menu carefully – most restaurants have a signature dish, and many towns have age-old traditions you’re invited to discover. Locals will be delighted when you ask for regional specialties and are usually happy to guide you there.

In Northern Italy, around 5 p.m., many bars offer aperitivo, especially in trendsetting cities like Milan. It’s a generous spread of plates – snacks, cheese, olives, meats, bruschetta, etc. – that comes with a drink. While it’s free for drink purchasers, it’s meant as a pre-meal nibble – not a dinner substitute.

Regional Specialties

Cities and regions each have their own signature dishes, including:

• Risotto – using Carnaroli, Arborio, or Vialone Nano rice, sautéed and simmered in broth in a shallow pan for creamy, satisfying results. Variations often include meat, poultry, seafood, vegetables, or cheese depending on the region. Many restaurants, families, towns, and regions have their own version of risotto, sometimes alongside or instead of a signature pasta dish (Risotto alla Milanese is a classic). It’s most typical in Lombardy and Piedmont.
• Arancini – rice balls coated in tomato sauce, eggs, peas, and mozzarella, then deep-fried. Originally a Sicilian specialty, they’re now popular all over Italy.
• Polenta – made from yellow cornmeal cooked in broth. It’s often served creamy or allowed to set, then sliced and fried or grilled. It’s common in alpine restaurants, typically accompanied by venison or wild boar. In the Veneto region, one standout is “polenta bianca,” a special, creamy white polenta known as “biancoperla.”
• Gelato – Italy’s version of ice cream. Non-fruit flavors are usually dairy-based; water-based versions are known as sorbetto. As refreshing as sorbet but richer in flavor. Classic choices include coffee, chocolate, fruit, and tiramisu. Ordering from a gelateria, you can choose between a cone or a cup. In northern Italy, you’re charged per scoop (even whipped cream counts as a flavor). In Rome, you can get a small cone (~€2.50), medium (~€3), or large (~€3.50, as of 2020) with no flavor limit – and whipped cream is free.
• Tiramisu – an Italian dessert made with coffee, mascarpone, ladyfingers (sometimes with rum), and dusted with cocoa. The name literally means “pick me up.”

Pizza

Pizza is a quick, convenient meal. In most towns, take-away pizzerias sell pizza by the slice. To order, point to what you want or tell them the type (e.g. Margherita, potato (roasted or fried), ham, etc.) and how much (“Two pieces, please,” or “two hundred grams,” or simply “more” or “less, please”).

They’ll slice it, reheat it, fold it in half, and wrap it paper. These are usually among the most affordable food options around. Other grocery shops sell pizza by the slice too, though many Italians view that as “second-class” pizza – something you grab when you can’t sit down for a proper pizzeria meal.

Grabbing slices on the go can save you money – it’s common for sandwich shops to charge extra if you sit down to eat. In many parts of the country, pizzas have thin crusts and are light on cheese.

True, authentic pizza is most often found in Naples – where it’s either a hearty Margherita (tomatoes, fresh basil, buffalo mozzarella) or topped with ham. Restaurants typically serve round pizzas, but few offer them at lunch.

Takeaway pizzerias are everywhere in towns and villages, often run by North African immigrants. Quality varies, but they’re almost always cheaper than restaurant fare (€4–5 for a Margherita, sometimes as low as €3) and are open during lunch hours. Some also serve kebabs, again with varying quality. Though most locals consider these “second-class,” they’re wildly popular with university students and locals in residential areas.

Don’t confuse these with Rome’s ubiquitous “Pizza al Taglio” shops – fast-food-style pizza by weight. You select your slice, it’s weighed, and priced accordingly – these are usually high quality and found on nearly every corner.

Cheeses and Cured Meats

In Italy, there are nearly 800 types of cheese – including famous ones like Parmigiano Reggiano and Grana Padano – and over 400 varieties of cured meats.

Open-air markets offer a huge variety of cheeses and meats and are always open on Saturdays – and often other days too, but typically not on Sundays.

Restaurants and Bars

In central areas of major cities, bars charge more (usually about double the normal price) if you sit at an outdoor table rather than stand at the counter or take your order to go.

That’s because bars pay a hefty fee for outdoor seating – so if most people don’t use the tables, they began charging only those who do.

The farther you get from busy streets, the less this applies. When you head into a bar for a coffee or drink, go to the counter first and pay for what you’d like. Then, hand the receipt to the bartender – they’ll serve you.

Restaurants often charge a small service fee (coperto). A few years ago, there were attempts to ban it – with limited success. Now, the rule seems to be: if you get bread, coperto may be added. But if you specifically say “no bread,” then they cannot charge coperto. This change came about because tourists would sit at a table for hours after ordering just a drink or salad while consuming a mountain of bread.

When dining in restaurants, always wait to be seated by the server – seating yourself is considered very rude. Table manners are formal. Keep your forearms visible on the table – elbows off! Be sure to hold your fork in the left hand and knife in the right. It’s also frowned upon to ask for extra cheese on your pasta – they will offer it when appropriate.

Bread isn’t meant as an appetizer – it goes with the meal: with your main course, stirred into your soup, or used to mop up sauce after finishing your pasta.

Also, remember to ask for the bill when you’re ready – it’s considered impolite for the waiter to clear your table and bring the check before you request it.

Some restaurants include a service fee, though that’s rare. A large tip is never expected in Italian restaurants – leaving one or two euros is appreciated.

A traditional meal might include (in order): antipasti (cold seafood, grilled vegetables, or charcuterie), primo (first course – pasta or rice dishes), secondo (meat or fish), contorno (typically vegetables served alongside), cheese or fruit, dessert, coffee, and drinks.

Upscale restaurants typically resist making changes to menu items – exceptions are made for infants or special dietary needs. Mid-range restaurants tend to be more flexible. For example, a simple tomato pasta might not be listed, but they’ll usually make it for kids.

If you’re in a large group (say four or more), avoid ordering wildly different pasta shapes – spaghetti, fettuccine, rigatoni, penne, farfalle – they cook at different times and kitchens may warn you of long waits.

Pizza is considered a primo course – served alongside other primi. If you order pasta or pizza while your friend orders a steak, your dishes may be served separately unless you request otherwise.

Most restaurants don’t offer “diet” food options. Those that do usually advertise it clearly on the menu – or even outside. To skip service fees on a budget, many Italian train stations feature buffets or self-service cafeterias (Rome’s Termini station is a great example). These places offer good quality food at reasonable prices.

Gastronomical Takeaways

Gastronomie shops are a type of self-service eatery where you tell the staff what you’d like (instead of serving yourself), and they’ll package food to go. It’s a great, budget-friendly way to sample traditional Italian dishes. Note: this isn’t a buffet – food is sold by weight.

Drinks

Bars and restaurants in Italy are non-smoking.

Italians enjoy an evening out, so it’s traditional to have a pre-dinner drink at a bar. This is called aperitivo.

In recent years – starting in Milan – many bars began offering fixed-price cocktails during aperitivo hours (roughly 6–9 pm), which come with a complimentary and often surprisingly tasty buffet. These evenings – AKA “happy hour” – have become a trendy way to enjoy a bite before heading out dancing or exploring the night.

Wine

Italian wine is beloved worldwide, with names like Barolo, Brunello, Prosecco, Valpolicella, and Chianti instantly recognizable. In Italy, wine isn’t just a beverage – it’s a way to earn respect from restaurant staff. The better informed you are, the better the service, the better the wine, and sometimes – lower the final bill.

Before your trip, try to familiarize yourself with the key wines of the region you’ll be visiting. Italian cuisine varies tremendously – even from town to town – and so does the wine.

Italians have long embraced pairing dishes and wines, and while the classic “red wine with meat, white with fish” rule exists, it’s often broken. You’ll find bold whites that pair beautifully with meat (like Sicilian or Tuscan Chardonnay), and delicate reds that work well with seafood (try Alto Adige Pinot Noir).

Restaurant wine prices are usually reasonable, giving you a chance to experiment. In larger cities, wine bars let you sample wines by the glass alongside tasty snacks. Unlike in many countries, it’s less common to order wine by the glass at a regular restaurant.

House wine (vino della casa) can be a great option – especially in rural areas, where it might be what the owner drinks or a restaurant’s own blend. It’s usually a safe and affordable choice in modest city eateries.

House wine may be bottled, but in cheaper restaurants, it’s often served by the carafe: quarter-, half-, or full-liter.

As a general rule: if the restaurant looks genuine and not overrun with tourists, house wine is probably fine. That said, some house wines can be unpleasant or give you a headache the next day – if that happens, don’t hesitate to send it back and pick from the wine list.

Italians rightly take pride in their own wines, so foreign wines are less commonly served. That said, international grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay are increasingly common in Italian production.

Beer

Although wine is the traditional everyday beverage, beer is also widely enjoyed in Italy. While it hasn’t been a classic staple like wine, over the past 30 years there’s been a boom in pubs styled after English craft bars in cities both big and small – offering an amazing variety of beers, ales, stouts, and ciders from all around the globe.

The most common Italian beers are Peroni and Moretti, typically served in daily cafés. If you’re serious about beer, look for bars specializing in craft or bottled beers – alongside those trendy Irish pubs. There’s also a growing number of microbreweries across the country, usually run by local beer lovers turned brewers, often with an attached pub. They often organize under the name Unionbirrai.

In the Trieste region, it’s common to sip on Slovenian beers – brands like Union and Zlatorog are particularly popular. Surprisingly, Slovenian beer can sometimes be cheaper in Italy (in Trieste) than in Slovenia itself.

Other Drinks

• Limoncello – a lemon liqueur made from alcohol, lemon zest, and sugar. While often made from legal alcohol, many families – especially in mid- to southern Italy near Naples – have their own homemade limoncello recipes. With lemon trees thriving in the Mediterranean climate and producing abundant fruit, many backyards are bending under their weight. Limoncello is considered a dessert liqueur, served after a big meal (think of it like amaretto), and is perfect for celebrations. It tastes like a strong, slightly thick lemonade with an alcoholic kick. Best served ice-cold from the freezer in small frozen glasses and sipped slowly rather than in big gulps. A creamy relative, Crema di Limoncello, mixes limoncello and cream for a milder finish.
• Grappa – a strong spirit distilled from grape skins leftover from winemaking. As you can imagine, it’s quite potent. If you’re trying it, go for a bottle that’s been distilled multiple times for a cleaner taste.
• San Pellegrino – Italy’s most famous sparkling water, considered among the best in the world. Widely available across Europe, the authentic experience is in Italy – find it in virtually every Italian supermarket or grocery store, and it’s commonly served in restaurants. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.

Limoncello, grappa, and similar digestifs are typically served after a meal to aid digestion. If you’re a regular at a place, sometimes they’ll offer you a small drink for free and leave the bottle at your table so you can pour yourself – just be cautious, as these beverages pack a punch.

Coffee

Bars across Italy offer various ways to enjoy a cup of coffee – but don’t expect 100 different bean varieties or “specialty” brews. If that’s your vibe, bring your own. Italian bars use a commercial bean blend from a single roaster, and you’ll often see the brand displayed inside or out.

Here are the most basic coffee options:

• Café, café normale, or espresso – the standard single-shot coffee, a post-meal staple.
• Caffè ristretto – made with less water than a regular espresso, so it’s stronger.
• Caffè lungo – like a regular espresso but with extra water pulled through the grounds.
• Caffè Americano – diluted with much more water and served in a cappuccino cup. Think American-style coffee, but much smaller – named after its popularity with U.S. soldiers during WWII.

You can customize these at no extra charge with a splash of milk – this is called a *macchiato*. So you might order a “caffè lungo macchiato” or “caffè Americano macchiato”. Prefer it hot (*caldo*) or cold (*freddo*)? Just specify! You can even ask for decaffeinated – *decaffeinato*. A popular brand for decaf is HAG, and it’s common to ask for “caffè HAG” even if the bar doesn’t carry that exact brand.

Need something stronger? Ask for a double shot – *doppio*. Just mention it at the till – it costs twice as much as a regular espresso. All previous variations still apply, though something like a “doppio ristretto” might be a bit intense.

If you’d like a kick of alcohol, try *caffè corretto*, which includes grappa, brandy, or sambuca – “corretto” means “corrected” with something stronger. It’s usually just espresso, but you can “correct” any variation.

If milk plays a role in your coffee, here are your classic options:

• Cappuccino – the iconic Italian coffee. Don’t like foam? Ask for “cappuccino senza schiuma” (no foam).
• Caffè latte (not “latte,” which simply means milk in Italian) – usually served in a glass or cup, with just a bit of coffee and plenty of hot milk.
• Latte macchiato – a glass of milk “stained” with a drop of coffee on top. Milk can be hot or cold.

Come summer, you might opt for chilled versions: *caffè freddo* (espresso over ice), *caffè freddo shakerato* (iced shaken coffee), or *cappuccino freddo* (a cold, milky coffee without foam).

This list isn’t exhaustive – if you’re open-minded and experimental, the variations are endless.

Where to Sleep

In major cities and tourist regions, you’ll find a wide range of accommodations – from globally renowned hotels to family-run guesthouses and rooms for rent. Hostels, however, are few and far between.

Camping is a smart, budget-friendly choice and campsites are generally well maintained. But especially in summer, last-minute bookings from groups of young travelers – often Italian boys – can be problematic, so it’s best to book ahead.

Staying on agriturismos (working farms) is growing in popularity, especially across rural areas of Tuscany, Piedmont, Umbria, Abruzzo, Sardinia, and Apulia. They offer a wonderful combo of wholesome food, beautiful views, and fair pricing.

If you prefer self-catering options, they’re easy to find along the stunning Amalfi Coast or on the quieter beaches of Calabria. In small villages, scattered inns often blend hospitality with local lifestyle – somewhere between a hotel and a guesthouse.

Hotel star ratings are only a rough guide. You’ll find some lovely 2-star places you’d happily return to every year – and possibly a 5-star hotel you wouldn’t step foot in again.

Much like elsewhere, star ratings are based on bureaucratic standards for amenities and don’t always reflect comfort. Often the only difference between a 3-star and a 4-star hotel is that the latter includes meals, while the former may offer only breakfast.

How to Get By

Electricity

Italy uses a standard voltage of approximately 230 V at 50 Hz :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}. The country supports three main plug types: Type C (two round pins), Type F (Schuko, with round pins and grounding clips), and Type L (three aligned round pins) :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.

– Type C (Europlug) works in many Italian outlets and is widely compatible, making it the go-to adapter for most travelers :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
– Type F (Schuko) is increasingly common, especially in northern regions; modern hybrid sockets often accept both French and Schuko plugs safely :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
– Type L is uniquely Italian and may appear alongside Type C and F in newer accommodations – so if one socket doesn’t work, try another :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.

You can find Schuko adapters easily in supermarkets, but for other plug styles you may need to shop at airports or specialty stores :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}. Power outages and voltage spikes are rare – even in remote southern villages, Italy’s infrastructure is robust and well-maintained :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.

Education in Italy

As the birthplace of the Renaissance, Italy deeply values education and is home to some of the world’s oldest and most esteemed universities. Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Niccolò Machiavelli all studied here.

That said, Italy isn’t yet a major destination for international students – many courses are taught in Italian, with a limited number offered entirely in English. Tuition fees are low and apply to all students, including internationals.

Located in the north, the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia dates back to 1175, and the University of Bologna – founded in 1088 – is recognized as the oldest university still in operation (apart from Al‑Azhar in Cairo). Both are in the Emilia-Romagna region :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.

In southern Italy, the more prestigious institutions include the University of Palermo (est. 1806) and the University of Naples Federico II (est. 1224).

Milan’s Politecnico di Milano is Italy’s oldest and most prestigious technical university and is highly competitive to enter.

Some U.S. universities also have a presence in Italy – NYU, for instance, maintains an academic center at Villa La Pietra in Florence, offering both study abroad programs and, in some cases, even first-year students the option to study there :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.

Working in Italy

If you’re a citizen of an EEA country (which includes the EU), Switzerland, or San Marino, you’re free to live and work in Italy without needing any special permits. But for everyone else, the process involves securing both a work permit and a visa – no easy feat. You must already have a job offer before applying, and your employer must apply for authorization at the One‑Stop‑Shop (Sportello Unico per l’Immigrazione) in the local Prefettura. This is only possible if you fall within Italy’s annual quota for non‑EU workers.

:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Once the work permit is granted, it’s shared electronically with the Italian consulate, which then issues your long-stay (D) visa. Upon arrival, you must request a residence permit for work within eight days. Expect to pay administrative and processing fees ranging from approximately €40 to over €100 depending on the permit duration.

:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Unemployment remains a challenge. In 2023, the national unemployment rate was around 7.6%, dropping to 6.3% by early 2025. Youth unemployment is notably higher – above 20%, which means competition can be tough for young professionals.

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The job market is also regionally divided. Northern regions like Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna have much lower unemployment (around 4–5%), while southern regions like Campania can exceed 17%. This regional disparity makes jobs in the north easier to find.

:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Here are a few practical tips to help you navigate the Italian job scene:

• A strong command of Italian significantly increases your chances of getting hired.
• Italy is not considered a hotspot for career advancement – many skilled locals move abroad for better opportunities.
• Networking is powerful. Many Italians find jobs through friends and family, so building local connections helps immensely.
• Entry-level wages typically range from €800–€1400 per month.
• There’s a substantial informal or “black market” labor sector – especially in hospitality, retail, and construction. These jobs are often unregistered, so while they can be easier to access, they come with no formal protections.

Workplaces in Italy tend to be hierarchical. Show respect to your superiors – even if you don’t agree with them, voice your views thoughtfully and politely.

Safety Tips

For emergencies, dial:

• 112 – The European-wide emergency number (handles police, fire, and medical assistance) :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
• 113 – State Police (Polizia di Stato) :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
• 115 – Fire Brigade (Vigili del Fuoco) :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
• 118 – Emergency Medical Services (ambulance) :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• 117 – Financial Police (Guardia di Finanza) :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• 1515 – Forestry service for environmental emergencies :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
• 1530 – Maritime assistance / Coast Guard :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
• 1528 – Traffic information service :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Italy is generally a safe destination. **Terrorist activity and serious violence are extremely rare**, often linked to organized crime or political motivations rather than targeting tourists.

Crime

Violent crime rates in Italy are low relative to many European countries. Use common sense and you’ll remain safe – even in less affluent urban areas.

**Common risks:**
– **Pickpocketing** remains one of the most prevalent issues in tourist hotspots. Avoid distraction tactics such as free trinkets or roses, which are often preludes to theft :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
– Be especially vigilant around crowded areas and transport hubs.

**Other scams include:**
– **Fake tour guides** who upsell you or lead you to commission-heavy services.
– **Taxi scams**, where meters “don’t work,” and you’re overcharged.
– **Fake tickets or tours**, sold by unlicensed vendors – always book via official sources :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.

Organized Crime

Groups like the Mafia or Camorra largely operate out of public view, especially away from main tourist areas. As a visitor, you’re very unlikely to cross paths with them unless you’re actively seeking them out.

Street Solicitation

Street-side solicitation for “services” has increased. While not always illegal, it’s often a sign of trafficking or exploitation – especially if the individual is a minor. Engaging can implicate you in illicit activity and isn’t advised.

Policing in Italy

Tourists may encounter multiple police forces:
– **Polizia di Stato (State Police)**: blue uniforms; visible in cities and stations.
– **Carabinieri (National Gendarmerie)**: dark blue with red accents; presence in towns and cities – roles often overlap with State Police :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.
– **Guardia di Finanza (Financial Police)**: handle financial and customs matters :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.
– **Municipal or Local Police**: focus on local regulations, traffic, and minor issues; don’t expect them at serious incidents :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}.

They are professional and reliable; **bribery is rare**.

If asked to show your bill or ID after leaving a restaurant or store, it’s a standard tax check, especially by Guardia di Finanza – it’s legal and not a reason for alarm.

Tourist Safety Tips

– Tourist bars – like “American” or “Irish” themed venues – can attract opportunists seeking to target unwary travelers. Go with friends, and pace yourself :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.
– Avoid entering ZTL (limited traffic) zones by car – unauthorized entry can result in fines of around €100.
– Always check ATMs for tampering or skimmers before use.

City-specific advice

– **Rome and Naples** have higher theft rates. Be extra cautious near major attractions like the Colosseum or Campo de’ Fiori :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}.
– Train stations, especially in large cities, can attract suspicious individuals. Avoid lingering at night.

Tourist Scams to Avoid

Watch for:
– **Bracelet or rose scams** – being handed trinkets then pressured to pay for them :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}.
– **Pickpocket teams** using distractions like flyers or photos to tilt your attention.

—

### Additional Insights & News

– Charging small fees for common items – like €0.50 for pepper – has sparked outrage and drawn attention to potential tourist-targeted pricing in venues :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}.
– **Romance scams and online exploitation** are rising across European tourist zones, including Italy. Be especially cautious of strangers online or on social media pushing fast emotional connections or money requests :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}.
– Travel insurers report **Italy leading in claims** among Australian tourists, particularly due to medical emergencies and lost documents – highlighting the importance of travel insurance :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}.

Around popular tourist spots, there are often people trying to sell cheap souvenirs. Some may also carry roses and claim they are giving you a gift because they like you – but the moment you accept the “gift,” they demand money. They are very persistent, beg insistently, and often the only way to get rid of them is to be openly rude. It’s best not to accept their “gifts,” as they will follow you and ask for money. Simply saying “no” or “vai via” (“go away”) will usually send them off – until the next vendor comes along.

Another typical encounter in tourist areas involves fake “deaf and mute” individuals entering restaurants or bars and leaving small items (like lighters, keychains, or toys) on tables along with a note asking for financial help. Do not examine the goods – just leave them where they are, and they will return, collect the items, and leave.

A particular scam involves people pretending to be plainclothes police officers who approach you asking to search your belongings for “drug money” or to see your passport. This is a trick to get access to your money. You can scare them off by demanding to see their official badge. Note that the Financial Police (those in grey uniforms) are responsible for customs work.

Another scam involves men who approach you, ask where you’re from, and begin tying bracelets around your wrists. Once they’re done, they will try to charge you over €20 for each bracelet. If someone tries to touch your hand, pull away quickly.

If you find yourself trapped, you can refuse to pay, but this might not be wise if there aren’t many people around. Carry small bills or only coins in your wallet so that if you’re forced to pay for the bracelet, you can convince them that €1 or €2 is all you have.

Yet another scam involves a man who approaches and asks you to help him break a large bill – usually €20 or €50. Do not give him your money. The bill he gives you is fake, though at first glance it may look real.

The best advice to avoid scams is to walk away from anyone you don’t know who starts talking to you.

When taking a taxi, remember to note the license number written on the car door. In seconds, people have had their taxi fare increased by €10 or more.

Racism

Violence motivated by racism is rare but does make the news a few times a year.

Italians may assume someone with visibly “foreign” features is an immigrant and, unfortunately, treat them with some disdain or condescension.

Tourists can generally expect not to be insulted to their face, but sadly, casual racism and prejudice are not absent from conversations (especially in bars, and particularly if there are sporting events involving players of different skin colors).

Sports-related assaults (hooliganism) against foreigners are not unheard of, and supporters of foreign teams playing in Italy should be especially careful not to openly wear their team colors on match day outside the stadium.

Road Safety

Driving in Italy is fast-paced, especially compared to other European countries. Drivers tend to switch lanes quickly and make impulsive, unreasonable decisions. It’s common for drivers to go the wrong way down a street just to avoid traffic and overtake everyone else.

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

Health Advice

Hospitals

Italian hospitals are public and offer completely free, high-quality treatment for travelers who have a European Health Insurance Card (for EU/EEA citizens) or a Health Card for UK citizens. As in other countries with public healthcare, you may need to wait several hours for treatment unless your condition is serious. Emergency departments are called “Pronto Soccorso.”

Emergency care is provided even to non-EU travelers. For non-serious cases, travelers without these cards must pay out of pocket, as there is no agreement with American health insurance providers (although some insurers may later reimburse these costs).

Italy uses a four-color emergency code: red is the most urgent (treatment is provided immediately), and white is the least urgent (anyone with a red, yellow, or green code will be treated before you). For a white code, which means the treatment is not urgent and does not require emergency personnel, you will need to pay for the full examination, so don’t go to the emergency room just to check your knee from last year’s fall.

Water

Although it is safe to drink, tap water in some parts of Italy may be cloudy and have a slightly strange taste. Except for some cities that use mountain water for their supply, such as Spoleto, most Italians prefer bottled water, which is served in restaurants. Be sure to tell your waiter or waitress that you want still water, otherwise, you may get sparkling or naturally carbonated water.

Rome, in particular, takes pride in the quality of its water. This stems from the construction of aqueducts during the Roman Empire that carried clean mountain water to all residents. Don’t waste plastic bottles. You can refill your containers and bottles from the constantly flowing fountains and taps around the city, confident that you’re getting excellent, cold spring water – try it!

Water in Southern Italy may come from desalination plants and can sometimes taste strange due to prolonged droughts, but it is always completely safe, as the government conducts ongoing quality checks. If in doubt, use bottled water. Elsewhere, tap water is perfectly safe and well-maintained. If it’s not, there will be a sign saying “Non-potable.”

Many cities have drinking fountains where you can refill your containers, but do not use water from fountains marked “Acqua non potabile” (Not for drinking).

Respect

Italy has a reputation as a hospitable country, and Italians are friendly and polite, as well as accustomed to small talk and interacting with foreigners.

Culture and Identity

Although it’s a generalization, it is believed that Italians in the north are more reserved compared to those in the south.

Despite the stereotypes, it’s not common for Italians to start conversations with strangers. Being overly friendly might make someone feel uncomfortable.

Italians are usually neutral in communication. They aim to be polite and respectful but are quite confident in expressing their opinions. Yes, Italians are known to be sociable and talkative, but you should try to be tactful with your words. Just because they seem confident doesn’t mean they are hard to offend.

Italians often ask personal questions and give advice on all sorts of things. You can expect to be showered with suggestions about what you’re doing, what you’re wearing, how to take care of your home, and questions about your life, what to see, and what not to. Try not to get upset or irritated by this, as the information Italians share is meant to help you in a good way, not in a bad one. As a foreigner, you might not fully experience this, but know that it’s common.

Italian society is less formal compared to other European countries, especially when it comes to introductions. For example, it’s normal for Italians to introduce people to friends in a casual way.

In conversations, it’s very common for people to interrupt or talk over each other. Shouting to be heard is usual, as well as using lively hand gestures and even swearing. What might seem like an argument in public could actually just be a passionate discussion!

Italians are very proud of their language, and people can become colder if you speak to them in English. Speaking English to someone right away might be perceived as rude, but since the country receives so many visitors, Italians have gradually become more tolerant of it. To win someone over, you should ask if they speak English before starting a conversation. If you want to make a strong impression, say “Parla inglese?” (pronounced “Parla inglese?”) to someone.

If you want to practice your Italian skills, don’t worry if you’re not fully confident or think you’re not good; any knowledge of Italian (even just two words) will surely impress the locals.

Once a foreigner masters the language well enough, they should begin using polite forms of address when speaking with older people, people outside their circle of friends, and any staff in an office or shop. In fact, using familiar verbs and pronouns is quite rare, except among friends, family, and sometimes peers. The Italian polite form uses the third person singular instead of the second person singular: “Lei” (also the word for “she”, but used for both men and women as a formal way to say “you”) instead of “tu” (“you” [familiar]).

Italians greet family and close friends with two light kisses on the cheeks. Men do this too. To avoid a kiss on the lips, first lean to the right (kiss the other person on their left cheek) and then to the left. Also, the rules for handshakes are the same as everywhere else in the Western world.

Dress & Attire

You’ll notice that Italians – especially in major cities like Milan, one of the world’s fashion capitals – are pretty obsessed with style. Even in casual situations, they tend to dress well. Italian fashion is world-renowned, after all.

This doesn’t mean Italians wear suits and designer clothes all the time, but if you dress purely for comfort (think flip-flops outside the beach, sneakers outside sports settings, sweatshirts worn like pajamas), you may come off as “odd.” While tourists sporting sandals with socks or oversized t-shirts aren’t uncommon, most Italians might silently mock it – though rarely, if ever, scoff at someone directly.

You could write an essay on Italians’ relationship with clothing. Here are three key points to know:

• Most Italians – especially younger people from middle and upper-middle classes – are very conscious of their appearance. It’s best not to be surprised or offended if someone gives you a sideways glance for not wearing the latest jeans or chic boots.
• Avoid forming snap judgments about people based on their attire. Styles don’t necessarily carry the same meaning in Italy as they might in your home country. A woman dressed in high heels, a mini-skirt, and full makeup at 8 a.m. might simply be heading to work at a bank. Meanwhile, young people often stroll around in tight T-shirts and casually tied jackets – and can be mystified by reactions to their fashion sense in settings that’re less “refined.”
• Sometimes dress rules are written – for instance, when visiting a church or a religious site, you’ll need to cover up: no bare backs, chests, shoulders, and sometimes even knees. Some museums and attractions also have dress restrictions – for example, no swimwear allowed. Bringing a cardigan, shawl, or scarf is a smart move. Some churches provide wraps (like sarongs) to help visitors cover up – especially men in shorts. Even where the rules aren’t posted, exposed skin far from beaches can be seen as disrespectful. And gentlemen, avoid wearing hats inside a Catholic church – it’s considered impolite. Many women choose to cover their hair with a veil or scarf when attending church, a custom that was mandatory up to the 1960s, but is now entirely optional.

Sensitive Topics

Italians have long expressed dissatisfaction with their government – citing issues like corruption, inefficiency, economic challenges, and political instability. While political discussion isn’t taboo, it can be quite polarizing.

Italians generally maintain a modest view of their country’s role (historical or modern) on the world stage. That said, certain parts of Italy’s history – like the Fascist era under Benito Mussolini – are still viewed with shame and regret. Younger Italians may be more open to discussing these topics, but older generations often avoid them. Fascism is widely regarded with disdain and disgust.

Unlike in parts of Central and Eastern Europe, Communism doesn’t carry the same negative connotations here. For much of the 20th century, Italy had the largest Communist Party in the Western world. It operated independently from the Soviet Union and was associated with effective local governance. Many towns have squares or streets named after Antonio Gramsci, a key figure in the movement. In regions like Emilia‑Romagna and Tuscany (historical strongholds), some people still feel nostalgic about the party.

Italians are often portrayed as “gangsters” in popular culture. Holding onto that stereotype is seen as disrespectful – many Italians grow weary of hearing it. The topic of the Mafia is sensitive, and most people avoid it if they can.

There’s also tension between Northern and Southern Italy. Unless you’re keen on extended discussions, it’s wise to steer clear of comparing the two. The topic is especially sensitive in the South.

Italy is divided into 20 regions, and places like Veneto, South Tyrol, and Sicily have strong autonomy movements – some even favor secession. If regional politics come up, it’s best to stay neutral unless you’re prepared for a passionate debate.

Also, try not to compare one city or region to another – it can come off as rude. Italians are quite proud of their hometowns and regions, and comparisons can feel like provocation.

LGBTQ Rights in Italy

In Italy, being gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender is legal – but LGBTQ individuals and couples may still face legal gaps and social challenges. Same-sex relationships are recognized, but civil unions (legalized in 2016) don’t include adoption rights or access to in vitro fertilization, and full marriage equality has not yet been granted. Civil unions do grant nearly all other legal protections that come with marriage.:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Discrimination in employment based on sexual orientation has been banned since 2003, but broader anti-discrimination protections covering gender identity are not yet enforced at the national level – though some regions have enacted more robust protections.:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Public opinion has shifted significantly: a 2023 poll found that 70% of Italians support civil unions, 65% support same-sex marriage, and 51% support adoption rights for same-sex couples.:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3} Ancient surveys showed more modest support – around 31% in favor of equal marriage in 2006, increasing steadily over time.:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Despite legal progress, hate-motivated violence and discrimination remain concerns. In a survey, 8% of LGBTQ respondents reported being attacked in the past five years – slightly lower than the EU average of 11%.:contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5} Italy remains near the bottom in Europe for legal protections for LGBTQ individuals, and legislative efforts like the “Zan Bill” aiming to criminalize anti-LGBT hate speech have faced strong opposition.:contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

As of 2023, same-sex civil unions have reached their highest level since legalization, with 3,019 unions registered that year.:contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

Many LGBTQ individuals in Italy – especially public figures – face a cultural climate where discrimination is often normalized or overlooked. These dynamics can make it difficult to call out unfair treatment, as seen in recent stories highlighting diminishing expectations among LGBTQ people.:contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Religion

Although most Italians are nominally Roman Catholic, modern Italy is largely a secular society, and many Italians are relaxed about religious practice. Atheism and agnosticism are not rare, especially in traditionally left-leaning areas in Central and Northern Italy.

While not all Italians observe Catholic traditions, even many atheists do – and as a visitor, especially in the South, it’s respectful to acknowledge this. Many Italian nationalists see Roman Catholicism as a key part of Italian identity, regardless of their personal religious beliefs.

Connectivity

Internet Access

Wireless Internet

By law, all public internet access points must log details of visited websites and – often – your identity. You may be denied access unless you provide personal information. Hotels offering Wi-Fi in guest rooms are exempt, but if the connection is in a public area (like the lobby), ID may be required. Open, anonymous Wi-Fi hotspots (such as in malls or cafés) are not permitted; most offer only one-time registration.([turn0search4](#))

Used to be, a strict law called the “Pisanu Law” required hotspot operators to register users and store personal data. It was repealed in 2012, significantly reducing the legal burden on providers.([turn0search17](#))

There is a government-backed free national wireless network called WiFi Italia, accessible via a dedicated app. Once downloads, the app enables both Italians and tourists to connect to a federated network of hotspots across the country via a single login.([turn0search9](#), [turn0search0](#), [turn0search19](#))

Many cities also run local public Wi-Fi services – Rome, for example, provides free access in libraries, museums, and public offices after simple registration (sometimes requiring an Italian SIM or SPID).([turn0search7](#))

Ports also offer free Wi-Fi under the “WiFi-by-ITALIA.it” initiative, covering locations like Bari, Brindisi, Catania, Messina, and others. It aims to enhance tourist connectivity at key maritime hubs.([turn0search8](#))

Italy continues to improve mobile coverage: as of 2021, 5G is available in cities like Milan, Rome, Turin, Bologna, and Naples, and the average household internet penetration remains high at around 91%.([turn0search11](#))

Mobile Phones

The mobile phone market in Italy has been developing since the early 1990s, so network coverage is reliable nationwide – even in remote coastal areas, mountainous regions, and small villages. Major local networks offer comprehensive 4G service, with 5G increasingly available.([turn0search15](#))

Most operators provide affordable internet plans featuring generous data allowances, unlimited calls, and text messaging. The main carriers are TIM, Vodafone, and Wind Tre. Smaller providers, like Iliad, are gaining popularity and can be more budget-friendly.([turn0search7](#))

If you’re using a non-EU operator, roaming charges in Italy can be exorbitant. Check if your current plan includes coverage in Italy – many EU operators now allow you to use your data, calls, and texts there without extra fees under «roam like at home» regulations. Otherwise, purchasing a local SIM or an eSIM is often more cost-effective.

Phone System

Italy’s landline and mobile networks are comprehensive. Landline numbers always begin with 0 – for example, Rome is 06, even when dialing from within the city. Mobile numbers start with 3. Numbers beginning with 89 are high-cost services. For unknown numbers, services like 1240, 892424, and 892892 exist but often come with hefty fees.

To call abroad from Italy: dial 00 + country code + full number (including leading zero for Italian landlines). To call into Italy: use your international prefix + 39 + full number – don’t drop the initial zero of Italian landlines.

Emergency numbers (dialable free from any phone, even with no credit):

• 112 – European-wide emergency number (Carabinieri/general emergencies)
• 113 – Police emergencies
• 114 – Child protection hotline
• 115 – Fire brigade
• 117 – Guardia di Finanza (financial/customs)
• 118 – Medical emergencies/ambulance
• 1515 – Forestry service
• 1518 – Traffic updates
• 1530 – Coast Guard
• 803116 – ACI roadside assistance (charges may apply if not a member)

Mobile Phones

Italians use mobile phones a lot – some might say even a bit too much. The main networks are TIM (Telecom Italia Mobile, formerly state-run), Vodafone, Wind Tre, and Iliad.

The most practical approach is to buy a prepaid SIM (starting around €10) and pair it with a budget-friendly unlocked phone (from about €19) – if you don’t already have a compatible device. Japanese, Korean, and North American phones may not work unless they’re triband.

Mobile coverage is nearly universal across Italy, and 5G was introduced in major cities around March 2021. To activate a SIM, you’ll need a valid ID like a passport. If you don’t already have one, vendors can generate a tax code (“Codice Fiscale”) for you from your ID. Mobile subscriptions may be subject to national taxes, but prepaid SIMs typically are not. Some hotels even offer loaner mobile phones for their guests.

Mobile plans used to be very complex, but today most operators offer plans with unlimited calls and texts to all networks, plus tens of gigabytes of data for around €10/month. Incoming calls from abroad may cost more depending on the operator. If you need to place a call to a landline, it can sometimes be up to 40% cheaper than calling a mobile number.

Post & Mail

If you’re sending postcards or gifts, it’s often better to wait until after leaving Italy. The national postal system, Poste Italiane, is known for being slow, expensive, and somewhat unreliable. In border towns near France, Switzerland, Austria, or Slovenia, it may actually be faster to cross the border and mail your items from there – postcards posted from Slovenia to the UK, for example, can arrive in just 2 days compared to over a week from Trieste, Italy.

In Italy, there are two primary mailing options:

• Poste Italiane – Look for the red mailboxes, available almost everywhere.
• Globe Postal Service (GPS) – Yellow mailboxes found inside some shops.

Poste Italiane offices are located in every city and most towns – marked with the symbol PT. Inside, you’ll usually take a ticket and wait for your number to appear on a screen. Different tickets are for different services; for mailing a package, look for the yellow ticket with an envelope icon. Most post offices close around 1 PM or 2 PM, and often only the main post office in a city will reopen later in the afternoon.

Globe Postal Service (GPS) sells stamps inside a network of tobacco and stationery shops that also serve as drop-off points. As of 2018, prices were approximately €1.30 for European mail and €2.50 for international. Delivery times are slightly longer than Poste Italiane – roughly 14 days to Europe and 18 days internationally. GPS stamps include a unique QR code feature, allowing you to upload a photo or video and track your card.