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Italy

Discover the charm of Italy, a country full of history, art, and culinary traditions, where ancient ruins meet Renaissance masterpieces and picturesque coastlines.

Quick Facts

Capital: Rome
Currency: Euro (€)
Population: Approximately 60 million
Area: 301,340 km²
Languages: Italian (official); English widely spoken in tourist areas
Religion: Predominantly Christian (Catholic)
Plug Types: Type C, F, and L; 230V, 50Hz

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Italy

Italy captivates visitors with its timeless beauty and diverse attractions. From the historic streets of Rome and Florence to the romantic canals of Venice and the stunning Amalfi Coast, Italy offers a blend of cultural richness and natural wonders. Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine, sip fine wines in Tuscany, and marvel at iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and Vatican City.

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Best time to visit Italy

Festivals

Venice Carnival (February): A historic celebration known for its elaborate masks, costumes, and grand masquerade balls.
Palio di Siena (July & August): A thrilling bareback horse race around Siena’s main square, rooted in medieval tradition.
Feast of San Gennaro (September): Naples honors its patron saint with religious processions, street food, and local festivities.

Weather

Italy is a year-round destination, with each season offering unique experiences. The spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) would be the most ideal months to visit Italy, when the weather is mild, the landscapes are at their most vibrant, and major sights are less crowded than in peak summer. These seasons also offer ideal conditions for sightseeing, wine tasting, and enjoying outdoor cafes. Summer (July and August) brings hot temperatures and large tourist crowds, especially in cities, while winter is quieter and best suited for visiting museums or skiing in the Alps.

High Season: June to August – Ideal for summer vacations along the coast or enjoying outdoor festivals. Popular tourist sites can be crowded.
Shoulder Seasons: April to May, September to October – Perfect for sightseeing with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Spring blooms and fall harvests add charm.
Low Season: November to March – Great for visiting cities and cultural sites without crowds. Skiing in the Alps and Dolomites is a winter highlight.

Public Holidays

New Year’s Day (January 1)
Epiphany (January 6)
Easter Monday (date varies)
Liberation Day (April 25)
Labor Day (May 1)
Republic Day (June 2)
Assumption Day (August 15)
All Saints’ Day (November 1)
Immaculate Conception (December 8)
Christmas Day (December 25)
St. Stephen’s Day (December 26)

Food

Savor authentic pizza in Naples, pasta in Rome, gelato in Florence, and seafood along the Amalfi Coast. Italy’s diverse regions offer unique specialties, from risotto in Milan to truffles in Piedmont.

Culture

Italy is the birthplace of the Renaissance and home to countless art treasures. Explore the Uffizi Gallery, Sistine Chapel, and ancient Roman ruins. Italians are known for their warmth and passion for food, family, and traditions.

People

Italy’s population of 59 million is known for its warmth, strong family ties, and love of art, food, and culture. Italians value their regional identities, with traditions varying between north and south.

Life in Italy often revolves around family and community, with bustling piazzas and local markets serving as social hubs. Italians take pride in their history and heritage, reflected in their architecture and cuisine.

History

Italy has a storied past, from the Roman Empire and Renaissance to its unification in 1861. It has been a cradle of art, science, and political thought for centuries.

Modern Italy balances its ancient heritage with innovation in fashion, automotive design, and technology. It remains one of the world’s most visited countries.

Environment

Italy’s landscapes range from the Alps and rolling Tuscan hills to the Amalfi Coast and Sicily’s volcanic terrain. Iconic natural sites include the Dolomites and Lake Como.

How to get to Italy

International Airports

Rome Fiumicino, Milan Malpensa, and Venice Marco Polo

Train Connections

Italy has a well-connected rail network, including high-speed trains like the Frecciarossa. It is easily accessible from neighboring countries like France, Switzerland, and Austria.

Visa

Schengen visa required for non-EU travelers; check specific requirements based on your nationality.

Getting Around

To/From Airports

Rome’s Fiumicino and Milan’s Malpensa airports offer rail and bus connections, along with taxis. Ride-sharing apps like Free Now operate in major cities.

Public Transport

Italy’s extensive train network, metro systems, and regional buses make travel easy. High-speed trains like the Frecciarossa are popular.

Rentals

Renting a car is ideal for exploring rural Tuscany or Sicily. Bike rentals are common in cities like Florence and Bologna.

Safety and Travel Tips

Watch out for pickpockets in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation.
Be cautious when driving in cities as traffic can be chaotic.
Stay hydrated during summer, especially in southern regions.
Carry cash as smaller establishments may not accept cards.

CURRENT TRAVEL ADVISORY

Italy - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Please check the travel.state.gov website for the latest advisory level, as it may not be up to date.

Travel Advisory Levels

1 - Exercise Normal Precautions

2 - Exercise Increased Caution

3 - Reconsider Travel

4 - Do Not Travel

Best places to visit in Italy

Rome and Lazio: Colosseum, Vatican City, and Roman Forum.
Tuscany: Florence, rolling hills, and world-class wines.
Veneto: Venice’s canals and Verona’s romantic charm.
Amalfi Coast: Breathtaking cliffs, lemon groves, and charming villages.
Sicily: Ancient ruins, Mount Etna, and Mediterranean beaches.

Florence

Lake Como

Milan

Pisa

Bucket List Experiences

Find Flights

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Get a Visa

via iVisa

Find Hotels

via Booking.com

Find Hostels

via Hostelworld

Get Travel Insurance

via Safety Wing

Find a Rental Car

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Book Public Transit

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Book Tours

via Viator

Get Travel Essentials

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Plan Your Trip

via Wanderlog

Is Italy cheap to visit?

Italy can be affordable if you choose budget accommodations and eat at local trattorias. Major cities and tourist areas are more expensive.

Can I drink tap water in Italy?

Yes, tap water is safe to drink. Many cities also have public fountains with potable water.

Do I need a visa to travel to Italy?

Non-EU travelers may require a Schengen visa. Check requirements for your nationality.

What language do they speak in Italy?

Italian is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.

Is Italy safe for tourists?

Italy is generally safe, but watch out for pickpockets in busy areas and be mindful of your belongings.

What power plug type does Italy have?

Italy uses Type C, F, and L plugs with a voltage of 230V and frequency of 50Hz.

Why You Should Travel to Italy

Italy is a feast for the senses with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and incredible cuisine. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, enjoying world-class art, or relaxing on the beach, Italy offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.