Italy travel tips – 35 top tips for travel in Italy

5. Cinque Terre is not just one brightly painted seaside village
Cinque Terre is actually five different fishing villages along the Italian Riviera.

6. Always carry some cash
While most places accept card payments, it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand just in case.

7. Don’t be afraid to explore off-the-beaten-path
Top attractions are popular for a reason, but you never know what you may find when you venture outside the busy city center. Our small group tours offer the best of both worlds, taking in must-sees and under-the-radar treasures in equal measure.

8. Embrace the leisurely quality of life in Italy
Italians are not renowned for their punctuality. Be patient and try not to get too stressed about it.

13. Always validate your bus or train ticket
Whenever traveling on trains or buses, make sure to validate your ticket before starting your journey, in order to avoid a fine.

14. Cover up in religious sites
Always cover your chest area, shoulders and legs above the knee when visiting churches, cathedrals and other sacred religious sites.

15. Download maps and directions in advance
You may not always have the internet or a good data connection. Save yourself the trouble of trying to get Google Maps to work by downloading directions beforehand. On our guided tours, your expert guide will escort you to itinerary stops and destinations.

16. Pack sunscreen and mosquito repellent
As you’ll be spending lots of time outdoors, it's essential to protect yourself against sunburn and mosquitos, especially during the summer months.

20. Be adventurous – try a wide variety of food and drink
Italian food varies by region, so you’ll have the opportunity to sample numerous regional specialities depending on where you are in the country. Try tortellini in Emilia Romagna, seafood in Puglia, chianti in Tuscany, and limoncello lemon liqueur along the Amalfi Coast.

21. Expect to eat dinner later in the evening
In Italy, dinner is not usually served before 7 or 8pm.

22. Enjoy aperitivo time before dinner
Similar to happy hour, aperitivo is a cherished culinary custom with drinks like Aperol spritzes and Negronis accompanied by light snacks. The tradition originated and is strongest in Northern Italy, but you can also enjoy it in Southern Italy.

23. Take the time to savor your food
Meals are leisurely affairs in Italy so both the food and the company can be better appreciated – don't rush.

28. Don’t order a latte
Latte means milk in Italian. If you order a latte, you’ll just get a glass of hot milk. For an American-style latte, which is steamed milk with espresso, order a latte macchiato.

29. Avoid paying 'tourist tax' at overpriced restaurants near tourist attractions
Heading even just a few blocks away to dine will lead you to better food and prices. The best local restaurants are often a little off-the-beaten-path.

30. Don't eat at a restaurant that serves spaghetti Bolognese
Many Italians argue it's not an authentic dish, so it causes some controversy.

31. Tipping your servers is not required or expected
However, it's always appreciated.