Italy is the land of pasta, passion and people who can make even an argument sound like a beautiful love song so it is not surprising that millions of people decide to visit the country of love, to soak up some of the culture, and see some of the amazing sights, from the leaning tower of Pisa to the remnant of Ancient Rome, each year. If you are about to be one of them, here are a few things you should know, so that your trip is more La Dolce Vita than lost in translation.
Planning an Italian Adventure
Don’t Try to Do It All
Yes, we know—Italy is a buffet of beauty. One minute you’re staring at the Colosseum, next thing you know, you’re trying to wedge a wine tasting in Tuscany and a Vespa ride down the Amalfi Coast into the same weekend. Here’s the secret: don’t. Italy rewards slow travel. Pick a region (or two), and do them properly. Rome, Florence, and Venice are fabulous—but so are Puglia, Umbria, and Sicily. Sometimes the lesser-hyped places offer the most magical moments.
Embrace the Chaos (Especially on the Roads)
Driving in Italy is a bit like participating in a Mario Kart championship, except without the bananas. If you’re hiring a car, especially in the south, prepare for a lot of honking, spontaneous overtaking, and creative parking. But honestly? It’s all part of the charm. Just channel your inner Italian, mutter “mamma mia,” and get on with it.
Coffee Rules Are Real
Want to blend in? Don’t order a cappuccino after 11 a.m. It’s practically a sin. Italians drink espresso like water and reserve milky coffees for breakfast only. So, if you’re craving a frothy latte mid-afternoon, prepare for some gentle judgment and a raised eyebrow from the barista.
All-Inclusive Can Be a Total Win
Now, if you’re the kind of traveller who wants zero admin (no stressing about dinner reservations or what’s open during siesta), consider booking a hotel all inclusive in Italy. Yes, really. While Italy is famous for its trattorias and tiny family-run gems, all-inclusive stays are becoming more popular—especially in beachy spots like Sardinia or along the Adriatic Coast. You’ll still get the pizza and Aperol spritz, just without the faff.
Timing Is Everything
Want to avoid the selfie stick battalions? Skip peak summer (July and August). Instead, go in May, June, or September when the weather’s still glorious but the crowds are less intense. Trust me, the Trevi Fountain is much more romantic when you’re not elbowing your way through 10,000 other hopeful wish-makers.
Learn the Basics
No one expects you to be fluent, but mastering a few Italian phrases goes a long way. A well-placed “buongiorno” or “grazie mille” gets you better service and even better smiles. Bonus points for attempting to pronounce “gnocchi” correctly. (Hint: it’s not guh-nocky.)
Now you know a bit more about Italy, you can have an amazing Italian adventure any time.
Andiamo!
