Famously shaped like a boot, Italy is a large peninsular country on the Mediterranean. This country is a historian’s dream, filled with ancient Roman ruins, incredibly famous pieces of art and some of the world’s most recognizable architecture. Its capital, Rome, is one of the most visited cities in the world – but there is more to Italy than Rome. Traveling through Italy’s different regions is like traveling to different countries. Each region possesses its own dialect, architecture, landscape, cuisine and culture. From the snow-capped Alps in the north to the turquoise waters and volcanic craters in the south, Italy is a country that will claim your heart.
Getting There And Around
Italy has a number of international airports, with Rome, Florence, Naples and Venice offering the most inbound flights. Travelers from Australia, Canada, European Union and Schengen, New Zealand and the United States do not need a visa to visit Italy.
Getting around in Italy is simple and direct. This country has numerous trains (including high-speed), bus routes and internal flights to cater to travelers. Italy’s slower, regional trains are extremely affordable. Taking these trains is the best option for travelers on a budget or travelers who have time to explore the country.
Money
Italy, a member of the European Union, uses the euro as its currency. Banknotes of the euro range from 5-500, and the bills vary in color and size. There are eight coins for the euro. The denominations for the coins are 1 cent to 2 euros, and the coins vary in size and metal.
Language
Italian is the language spoken in Italy. It is a romantic language, and the locals speak it with intense passion.
Good Morning – Buongiorno
Good Evening – Buona Sera
Thank You – Grazie
Please – Per Favore
Excuse Me – Mi Scusi
Beer – Birra
Yes – Si
No- No
Housing
Due to the incredible demand from tourism in popular Italy, accommodations are not cheap! In major cities, such as Rome, even hostels are expensive. The cheaper hostels will cost around 55 EUR in Rome. The farther south you go in Italy, the cheaper the prices of accommodations. Naples and Sorrento have some great private accommodations for the same price as a bed in a dorm room in Florence or Rome.
Food
Italian cuisine is known worldwide. Different regions of the country offer different types of flavors and ingredients, but the most popular dishes, such as lasagna, spaghetti carbonara and pizza can be found throughout the entire country. Tuscany is famous for its wide, flat noodle dishes and bistecca alla fiorentina. Rome’s most famous dish is the spaghetti alla carbonara, which is pasta in a white sauce made with cheese, egg and pork. Venice, Liguria and Sicily look to the sea for culinary inspiration. Emilia-Romagna is famous for developing many pastas now common around Italy (tagliaelle, tortellini) and the distinct Parmasan-Reggiano cheese. Don’t forget to save room for gelato!
Italy is also famous for its wine – the country produces and consumes more wine than any other place in the world. Chianti is the pride of Tuscany.
Limoncello, a popular Italian liqueur, is often served as an after-dinner aperitif. It is produced from the gigantic lemons that are common in southern Italy and Sicily.
Save Cash
Italy is an expensive country to travel through. Expensive accommodations and museum fees can really eat away at a traveler’s budget. Private accommodations are becoming more popular in Italy, and are often more affordable that the hostels and hotels while offering more space. Booking private accommodations, such as apartments, on sites like Booking.com will save you money.
Instead of eating out for lunch, grab a quick sandwich or Panini from one of the street vendors. They’re only a couple euros, and by not sitting down to dine, you have more time to explore the country.
Buying wine instead of cocktails will save you big. Some bottles of wine are as low as 5 EUR, and although low in price, they are still quality, flavorful Italian wines. Drinking wine is a great way to be social and save cash.
Stay Fit
There are many activities to enjoy in the beautiful country of Italy. The Amalfi Coast is a gorgeous coastline with steep cliffs. Lake Como, a lake popular with tourists, celebrities and locals alike, has scenic bike paths that circle it. Merano is great for hiking and bicycle touring – all while taking in the photographic ancient castles.
In Italy, the tap water is perfectly safe to drink and a great way to save some extra money. Fill up that water bottle from the tap and stay hydrated!
Stay Connected
Italy is well connected to Wi-Fi throughout the country. Accommodations, bars, cafes and restaurants often offer the service free of charge for customers. Prepaid SIM cards are available in Italy, and the rates are fairly reasonable. Foreign SIM cards will only work on unlocked, tri-band mobile phones.
Typical European two-prong, 220V type-C/F electrical outlets are used in Italy.
