So, you decided to test what you learned by venturing to Italy – a wise decision. Italy has everything a trip could ask for: a friendly environment, delectable cuisine, breathtaking surroundings, and high-end shopping (note: increase your credit limit). However, ill-fated packing will damper your chances of enjoying them.
Be prepared by reviewing my Italian itinerary to get you ready for your trip to Italy.
Getting ready for a trip to Italy is easy if you know these…
1) Carry a phrasebook
“Benvenuto in Italia!”
It’s the first thing you’ll hear when the plane touches down on Italian soil. That’s because Italians relish their conversational phrases, and are generally friendly towards tourists. Don’t get caught off guard when a local asks your name, and you can only smile and nod.
A Phrase book like Eyewitness Travel Phrase Book Italian: Essential Reference for Every Traveller helps millions get ready for their trip to Italy. It’s the Swiss army knife, or in this case, Italian survival guide, for handling everyday encounters.
Phrase books provide travellers with common sayings accompanied by word lists and detailed visual diagrams. Beginners to intermediate Italian language learners can take advantage of its simple menu guide and two-way dictionary.
Buy Eyewitness Travel Phrase Book Italian: Essential Reference for Every Traveller>>
2) Protect your valuables
Pick pocketing is prevalent in major European countries, including Italy. Anti-theft wallets like neck bags aren’t as “chic” as designer handbags but conceal valuables (passport, cash, credit cards, cell phone, etc.) inconspicuously under your clothing.
Alternatively, protect any zippered bags at all times, but no backpacks. It’s challenging to monitor your belongings while they are slung on your back.
The last thing anyone wants is to be robbed and stranded.
3) Check the weather
Part of Italy’s beauty is that it’s a four-season country, and temperatures vary regionally. Sicilian temperatures can be exceedingly hot in the summer, and as you would expect for Venice and other northern regions’ climate plummet the winter.
It’s imperative to mention, as buildings are conveniently heated for the winter, it can be insufferably hot when you are indoors in the summertime; air conditioning is a luxury.
To get ready for your trip to Italy, here is a general breakdown of its weather forecast (note: as it’s a generalisation, check the region’s conditions before visiting):
- Spring (March/April/May) – Enjoyable temperatures regionally while surrounded by blooming trees and flowers, however, there is a high likelihood of the proverbial May showers. The temperature ranges between 60°F and 75°F (16°C and 24°C).
- Summer (June/July/August) – It’s not just Italian sausages that bring the heat, it’s the temperatures too. Expect temperatures between 77°F and 86°F (25°C and 30°C).
- Fall/Autumn (September/October/November) – It’s ideal sightseeing weather with warm days and cooler nights overall. Top temperatures range between 65°F and 75°F (18°C and 24°C).
- Winter (December/January/February) – Alpine regions can have snow with subzero temperatures. High temperatures range between 50°F and 55°F (10°C and 13°C).
As said, please check the forecast of the city/region before your trip. You can use this reputable Italian website for more accurate predictions.
4) Make a list of everything you need to pack
We all know, how annoying is to leave some important items at home. To avoid this please do prepare a list, to help you with this task I have prepared a nice sheet to fill in.
Download the PDF (easy to print) file here>>
Any other tips to get ready for your trip to Italy? Let me know in the comments below. Contact me, and I’ll ensure you’re prepared for your Italian excursion.
FAQs: Getting Ready for Your Trip to Italy
1. Should I exchange my euros in the UK or directly in Italy?
It’s generally cheaper to exchange your money directly in Italy rather than using Post Offices or UK banks. Just make sure to go to a reputable exchange office, do your own research, and remember that you can often negotiate better rates if you’re exchanging a larger amount.
2. Do I have to pay the city tax for my accommodation in Italy?
Yes. The city tax, known in Italian as tassa di soggiorno, is mandatory for everyone staying in temporary accommodation, not only tourists but also Italian residents. The amount is set by each city council and goes directly to the local authorities to help maintain and improve the city. This tax is collected separately from your room rate and is not kept by the hotel.
3. Should I rent a car when visiting Italy?
It depends on where you’re planning to go and what you’d like to see. If you’re visiting major cities such as Rome, Milan, Florence, or Bologna, public transport is excellent, including fast trains connecting the main cities. Travellers are often pleasantly surprised by the efficiency of Italy’s train network.
However, if you wish to explore smaller towns and rural areas, for instance the Tuscan countryside (Montepulciano, Torrenieri, Cortona, etc.), it’s best to hire a car. Public transport and taxis are limited and not cost-effective in these areas.
4. Can I trust Italian taxis? I’ve heard some bad stories…
Generally, Italian taxis are safe and reliable, but it’s wise to be informed. In some cities, particularly Rome, a few drivers may try to overcharge tourists on airport transfers. To avoid this, note that there are fixed taxi fares between Rome’s airports (e.g. Ciampino or Fiumicino) and the city centre, make sure you know these beforehand.
Always check that the taxi has a meter running and that the fare is clearly displayed before starting your journey. Official taxis are white and display their licence number on the doors.
Read also “How an Italian Course can make your Holiday to Italy even better”>>