Italy is a travel destination that is on most people's bucket lists. It has a rich culture, exquisite cuisines, vibrant cities, picturesque beaches, and peaceful countryside that makes everyone want to remain there forever.
If you are planning a trip to Italy, you've probably been searching the internet for the best places to visit and fun things to do.
Many travelers forget to search for the dos and don’ts even though they better prepare you for every situation you encounter on your vacation. Here is a list of the things you should know before hopping on a plane to Italy.
These are some of the things you should know before traveling to Italy.
While it's not necessary, learning the language before your trip doesn't hurt, even if it’s learning a few useful phrases. If you happen to travel to the countryside, you'll find that not everyone can converse in English, and this is where your Italian will come in handy, as you can comfortably extend greetings and ask for directions.
Italy has many cities, including Venice, Florence, and Milan among others. And the best part is the rail system, and the flights make it possible to stay in one city and explore another. So, you can easily travel from, say, Venice to Lake Como, Milan, or Venice.
Consider booking your tickets in advance if you want a stress-free and relaxing vacation. This is because the last-minute rush will leave you in long queues or even result in you missing out on a tour as the tickets may be sold out. Planning ahead relieves you of your worries.
Some attraction sites where you need to pre-book your ticket include the Duomo Climb, the Colosseum, and the Tower of Pisa. Remember to book specific dates and times; it will also help you save money because, most of the time, pre-booked tickets are cheaper.
It's always recommended that you carry cash as some places don't take cards. You'll be required to use cash if you visit the small markets and restaurants. Yes, ATM machines are everywhere but using them exposes you to muggers and pickpockets. So it would be wise to change your cash, but only carry what you'll need for that day.
If you have been to Europe, you know of their extensive rail system. Trains are the most effective means of transport as they are fast, affordable, and pass through scenic routes. And the best part is that their customer service is available around the clock and they speak English.
If you want to book a train ticket, check the train's schedule. And you can have access to the VIP lounge. Before boarding the train, you will have to validate your ticket. You will see a green and yellow machine at the train station; you must place your ticket on these booths, which will be dated and time stamped. However, if you circumvent this process, it can lead to a fine of 50 Euros, which can go up to 200 Euros if you try to dispute.
Every city with a significant number of tourists is bound to have tourist traps; Italy is no exception. You'll find waiters waiting outside restaurants inviting you to taste their specials with a promise of an offer. Don't fall victim to their marketing tactics because you'll be served small portions, the menus are overpriced, and maybe the offer is on wine that is quite affordable in Italy anyway.
Don't just go to any restaurant; instead, do your research and only visit famous restaurants based on recommendations and reviews. If you have traveled, you know that the small out-of-town restaurants with a family setting have the most delicious and affordable dishes, and the best part is that their portions are large.
We have the habit of using Google Maps on our phones for directions. Most often, they get you to your destinations, but in Italy, if you are driving, then Google Maps is not the most effective as the narrow streets might leave you stuck on the road. Only use it if you are walking, and having a tour guide accompany you is the best as you get to avoid areas with pickpockets.
Many European peoples are huge on a full-spread breakfast comprising bread, eggs, and bacon. Italians do not emphasize breakfast as it mainly consists of coffee and sweet pastry.
If you are an early riser, you better have snacks in your room, as most cafes open around 10 am. And if you are lucky, you might find one of these cafes that cater to American and English tourists and get your serving of English breakfast.
Unlike Americans, Europeans take their sweet time in everything they do. For instance, if they are out for lunch, expect them to sit for hours eating and enjoying every bite. They take time off their phones and have no worries about their to-do list. And talk of their wait staff, who will leave you and allow you to enjoy your meal in peace.
Don't assume that they are ignoring you; you will have to summon them for them to return to your table.
If you plan to go shopping in the afternoon, you'll be disappointed as most shops and restaurants close in the afternoon. The closing time and duration vary from business to business and area. Some close from 1 pm to 4 pm, 12 noon to 4 pm, or 2 pm to 5 pm. This period is referred to as Reposo. So make sure to have your lunch early; otherwise, you'd have to wait till evening.
In Italy, dinner starts late, so make sure to have a snack late afternoon to tide you up till supper. After “reposo,” many restaurants reopen around 6 or 7 pm and most start serving dinner around 8 pm.
Many restaurants have sitting and service fees referred to as “coperto.” So if you are traveling on a budget, try to visit restaurants that do not charge a coperto. Many do not announce the charge; you'll only see a higher total on your bill. Knowing about it is good to avoid feeling like you are being scammed.
Drivers often ignore the speed limit and the lanes, so the roads are pretty noisy, with horns blaring. So, if you are exploring the city while walking, ensure that you are at least 6 inches away from the road to avoid being a victim of a car accident.
Because of the narrow roads, there are plenty of scooters as they can pass anywhere, and the rules don't apply to them. If you have rented a car, it would be best to hire a local driver as they know all the passable car roads and how to navigate the traffic.
However, if you don't want to deal with the hassle of private transportation, public transportation via buses and trains is fabulous and highly developed.
Since you plan on exploring parts of Italy on foot, it would be best if you wear your most comfortable shoes; otherwise, you will be sorry as your legs will be full of blisters. The cobblestone streets are not fit for saddles; wear your sneakers or suede boots.
The sun is always up in Italy, so ensure your body is lathered up with sunscreen to protect you from the glaring sun rays. Also, pack your favorite sunglasses.
Taxis are expensive in Italy and most often push certain buttons where they hike the meter read. So always be keen. Instead of calling a cab, ask the hotel you are staying at to call a taxi for you, as they will mostly pick the ones they are accustomed to. And most times, taxis will not stand if you are not standing at the taxi stand.
In Europe, many cities offer passes that allow you free entry into some tourist attractions sites like museums and discounts. With a city pass, you can skip the long waiting lines.
Traveling to Italy is a dream come true for many travelers. And for that reason, many usually list the places to visit and things on their trips. However, they forget to acquaint themselves with some important facts, like the practical details of moving about in the cities/countries they are visiting. For instance, many tourists forget to consider the fact thatshops and restaurants close in the afternoons, taking advantage of city passes, using trains and buses instead of taxis, and Italians take their time in everything they do, not rush. With our list, we hope you are better prepared for your trip to Italy.
