Welcome to Italy!
la dolce vita
From the Alps in the north to sun-drenched islands in the south: Italy is a country of contrasts and endless charm. It holds more UNESCO World Heritage sites than anywhere else in the world. Italy is home to some of the planet’s most iconic art, architecture, and cuisine, perfect for living la dolce vita.
Whether you’re sipping espresso in a bustling piazza, hiking along the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, or wandering through the ruins of ancient Rome – every day in Italy feels like a scene from a film.
Italy Quick Facts
Language: Italian
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Electricity: 50hz/230 Volts and Plug Type C/F
Time Zone: Central European Time (CET, GMT+1)
Discover Sicily’s East Coast!
With its volcanic landscapes, charming coastal towns, rich history, and incredible food, Sicily has everything you need for an unforgettable Italian escape.
Italy has always had a special place in my heart.
I grew up traveling there with my family – learning to ski in the Dolomites at the age of 3, or taking short city trips to Rome and Venice. Now, I’m exploring it all over again on my own, and somehow it just keeps getting better.
Geographically, Italy is incredibly diverse. From the dramatic Alps and Dolomites in the north to the beaches of the south, every region feels like its own little world. The center is home to Tuscany’s hills, vineyard-covered landscapes, and cities like Florence and Siena. Down south, you’ll find volcanic islands, incredible coastlines, and vibrant towns like Naples, Matera, or the colorful villages of Cinque Terre.
It’s also a country layered in history! From ancient Roman ruins and Renaissance masterpieces to medieval hill towns and centuries-old traditions that are still alive today. You could spend a lifetime here and still not see it all.
And then there’s the food. Yes, pizza, pasta, and gelato are a given, but Italy also gave us risotto, arancini, parmigiana di melanzane, burrata, tiramisu, and so many more regional dishes that are so worth traveling for.
Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, Italy just has a way of pulling you in!
Best time to visit Italy
Italy really is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit really depends on what you’re looking for!
Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are ideal for mild weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant landscapes. It’s perfect for sightseeing and road trips. Summer (July and August) brings hot temperatures and lots of tourists, especially in popular spots like Rome, Venice, and the Amalfi Coast. But it’s also great for beach lovers and island escapes.
If you’re into skiing or cozy mountain towns, December to February is the time to head north towards the alps for some winter adventures.
Health and Safety
Italy is generally a really safe country for travellers. However, just like anywhere, it’s always smart to stay informed and prepared. Here’s what you should know about staying safe and healthy while you’re there:
Health
Italy has a high standard of healthcare, and the public health system is generally well-regarded. If you need medical attention while traveling, emergency services can be reached by calling 112 (the EU-wide emergency number). For minor issues, you can also visit a local pharmacy (they’re easy to find and are usually marked with a green cross). If you’re visiting for a short stay, it’s a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical costs.
There are no specific vaccinations required for travel to Italy, but it’s always important to check your general health before heading out. Ensure you’re up to date on routine vaccines like tetanus, especially if you’re traveling to rural areas. If you’re traveling during the summer, be mindful of heat stroke, especially in southern Italy, by staying hydrated and avoiding long periods in the sun.
Don’t worry about finding enough water to drink! Tap water is generally safe to consume, and depending where you are, could be coming straight from mountain springs. Some exceptions are places like Sicily, where chlorine is sometimes added to the water. Maybe stick to bottled water for the taste here. When in doubt, just ask the locals!
Safety
Italy is considered a very safe destination for tourists. Personally, I don’t think I’ve ever felt uncomfortable or unsafe. However, like any popular travel spot, you should be cautious of pickpockets! Particularly in crowded places like Rome’s Colosseum, Florence’s Duomo, or Venice’s St. Mark’s Square. Always keep your valuables in a secure place, and use anti-theft bags if you’re worried.
In more rural areas, you could encounter wildlife like snakes, so be cautious when hiking in places like the Dolomites or Sicily’s countryside. Always follow marked trails and check weather conditions before heading out.
How to get around
It’s super easy to get from A to B in Italy. The country has a wide variety of transportation options to help you explore the country, whether you’re zipping through cities or traveling between regions. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to get around:
By Car (or Scooter)
If you want the freedom to explore at your own pace, renting a car is a great option, especially if you’re heading out to smaller towns or rural areas like the Tuscany countryside or Sicily’s coastal villages. Remember that Italian driving can be extremely chaotic, especially in busy cities like Rome and Naples.
Parking can also be tricky, so be prepared to navigate narrow streets and sometimes limited spaces. There might be some different traffic rules than you’re used to. It’s not seldom that people receive hefty fines after their vacation, so make sure you know all the signs! If you’re unsure, it might be best to skip driving yourself and take public transportation instead.
My favourite way to explore Italy, though, is via Scooter. They are another popular way to get around, particularly in places like Rome, or the Amalfi Coast. They’re a fun, efficient way to drive through traffic, though be prepared for a bit of a wild ride! Just remember to always wear a helmet (it’s the law!) and follow traffic rules.
By Train
Trains are a great way to travel longer distances between cities and regions in Italy. The high-speed trains like Frecciarossa or Italo connect major cities like Rome, Milan, Florence, Naples, and Venice, and they’re fast, comfortable, and relatively affordable. Trains also offer scenic routes, particularly between regions like Tuscany or along the coast. If you’re traveling between cities, this is often the easiest and most convenient option.
For more regional travel, regional trains are a bit slower but are still a reliable and cost-effective option for places like Sicily or Southern Italy. Just make sure to validate your train ticket before getting on (unless you have an e-ticket). If you’re planning on using trains frequently, consider buying a rail pass for some savings.
By Bus
Buses are often the cheapest and most flexible way to get around, especially in cities and towns that aren’t as well connected by trains. In cities like Rome or Florence, local buses are important for getting around beyond walking distance. Regional buses can take you to less accessible places, like the Amalfi Coast or towns in Sicily, where trains might not go. They’re an affordable option, but they tend to be slower and less frequent than trains, so always check schedules in advance.
If you’re looking for a scenic route, long-distance buses (like FlixBus) are great for traveling between major cities at a fraction of the cost of trains.
