Things To Do
in Italy
Italy is a boot-shaped country in Southern Europe known for its rich history, artistic heritage, and world-famous cuisine. From the ruins of Rome to the canals of Venice, each region offers a unique cultural experience. The diverse landscapes range from Alpine peaks in the north to sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches in the south.
Visitors come for the art, stay for the food, and return for the warm hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day at the Colosseum where the dawn light filters through ancient arches. Wander through the Roman Forum's marble columns and envision Senate debates held centuries ago. Pause atop Palatine Hill for a panoramic view of the Eternal City's sprawling history.
Savor a classic pasta lunch in the Monti district before visiting the Capitoline Museums. Marvel at Michelangelo's architectural design and admire the famed Capitoline Venus. Continue to the neighboring Campidoglio Square, crafted by Renaissance masters.
Make your way to Piazza Navona as street musicians set a lively backdrop around Bernini's fountains. Toss a coin into the fountain at the Trevi for good luck and enjoy a scoop of artisanal gelato. End the night with a stroll up to the Spanish Steps for a dramatic nighttime panorama.
Enter St. Peter's Basilica at daybreak to marvel at Bernini's baldacchino and Michelangelo's Pieta with minimal crowds. Ascend the dome's 551 steps for a breathtaking view of St. Peter's Square and Vatican rooftops. Breathe in the spiritual calm as sunlight pierces the nave's stained glass windows.
Dive into the vast corridors of the Vatican Museums, guided by richly painted frescoes and hidden galleries. Stand beneath the iconic ceiling of the Sistine Chapel to appreciate Michelangelo's masterwork. Conclude with a serene walk through the Vatican Gardens, where trimmed hedges and secluded groves offer a verdant retreat.
Cross the Tiber River to the Trastevere neighborhood for a delightful al fresco dinner under vine-draped pergolas. Savor authentic Roman dishes like cacio e pepe while local musicians strum guitars at sidewalk tables. End your evening with a leisurely gelato stroll along cobblestone streets lined with ochre-painted buildings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍝Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12 |
| ☕Coffee | $1.50 |
| 🚌One-way public transport ticket | $1.50 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (0.5 L) | $5 |
| 🚕Taxi start (normal tariff) | $3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class art and history
- Exceptional food and wine
- Diverse landscapes from mountains to coast
- Rich cultural traditions
- High tourist crowds in peak season
- ZTL driving restrictions
- Variable service standards
- Regional price disparities
- "Ciao" - Hello/Bye
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Italy
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful cliffside villages and terraced vineyards—capture sunrise from the Manarola lookout.
Fewer crowds and golden light make for dramatic ancient Rome shots.
Panoramic coastal curves—best views between Positano and Praiano.
Climb to the rooftop for close-ups of Gothic spires and cityscape views.
Sunrise and sunset over cypress-lined lanes near Val d’Orcia.
Food in Italy
Italy Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Neapolitan pizza with tomato, mozzarella, basil and olive oil—try it in Naples at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele.
Must-Try!
Creamy egg-and-cheese sauce with guanciale and black pepper—best enjoyed in Rome’s historic trattorias.
Italian ice cream made with fresh milk, sugar, and seasonal fruit—sample artisanal flavors at Gelateria dei Neri in Florence.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Rome’s largest covered market—try porchetta sandwiches and fresh produce stalls.
A vibrant food hall offering lampredotto panini, Tuscan pecorino, and handmade pasta.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use “Buongiorno” and “Buonasera,” and shake hands in formal settings.
Modest attire required in churches; avoid beachwear outside coastal areas.
Keep noise down after 10 pm in residential neighborhoods.
Avoid driving into Limited Traffic Zones in historic centers to prevent fines.
Safety
Tipping in Italy
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge (“servizio”) is often included; rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for exceptional service is appreciated.
Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas; carry cash for small cafés, markets, and ZTL fines. Contactless payments and mobile apps are growing.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds—ideal for sightseeing.
Hot in cities and overcrowded in July–August; perfect for beach trips along the Amalfi Coast.
Harvest season in wine regions, comfortable weather, and vibrant foliage in the north.
Snow in the Alps for skiing; mild, rainy winters in the south with off-season rates.
Italy at Night
Hiking in Italy
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic coastal path linking five colorful villages.
Classic high-route trek with mountain huts and dramatic peaks.
Panoramic trail offering views of cliffs and the Mediterranean.
Alpine meadows, rocky peaks, and traditional shepherd huts.
Volcanic landscapes with lava flows and panoramic island views.
Airports
How to reach Italy by plane.
Italy’s busiest airport with direct trains to Rome Termini.
Major hub for northern Italy; express train to Milan city center.
Shuttle bus and water taxi connections to the historic island.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Generally more industrial and affluent, speak regional dialects like Lombard and Venetian.
Known for agricultural traditions, warmer climate, and distinct dialects like Sicilian and Neapolitan.
Major cities host EU and non-EU expats working in tech, fashion, and academia.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Italy’s national sport—Serie A matches and passionate local fan culture.
Historic races like Giro d’Italia and scenic amateur routes.
Monza hosts the Italian Grand Prix annually.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Pasta al pomodoro, pizza marinara, and vegetable antipasti are widely available—ask for “senza formaggio” to remove cheese.
Seek farm-to-table restaurants in major cities; many gelaterie offer sorbets made without dairy.
Look for “senza glutine” menus—Italy has strict regulations, and many pizzerias and pastifici use certified gluten-free flour.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Italy.