a Italy is one of the most culturally rich countries in the world. Everyone has heard of iconic cities like Rome, Venice, or Milan. And Italy’s cuisine, like pizza and pasta, is a favourite dish among many people in the world. However, the country offers more than that to explore.

If you are also looking for an Italy travel guide to prepare for your upcoming trip, don't leave yet. This article will provide you with all the information you need to know, including how to get there and the best places to visit.

After this, be sure to give our 10 days Italy itinerary a read for some more inspirations! 

1. Where is Italy?

Over 70 million international travellers went to Italy in 2024. Photo by Andrii Shnaider on stock.adobe.com

Italy is located in southern Europe, shaped like a boot that extends into the Mediterranean Sea. It shares land borders with France, Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia, and is surrounded by the sea on most sides. The country also includes two large islands: Sicily and Sardinia. 

Famous for its food, art, and deep-rooted history, Italy is home to more than 7,900 towns and cities. Some are known for grand cathedrals or lively piazzas, others for quiet corners and cobbled streets. Many places have even appeared in films, such as Savoca in The Godfather, or the northern town of Crema in Call Me by Your Name. 

Italy’s landscapes offer a unique charm that takes you by surprise. Italy has the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world, with over 60 places recognised for their cultural or natural value. They are historic towns, archaeological ruins and protected landscapes. 

2. About Italy

Italy is one of the most visited and most romantic countries in the world. Let’s take a closer look at what makes it so appealing to travellers.

1. Best Time to Visit

A beautiful scene of autumn in Italy. Photo by Olivier on stock.adobe.com

This is your Italy travel guide for the weather here:

• Spring: Mild temperatures (8 – 18°C), blooming flowers, occasional light rain.

• Summer: Hot and dry, especially in big cities like Rome, with temperatures around 25 – 30°C.

• Autumn: Pleasant early on (15 – 25°C), but gets wetter and cooler later in the season.

• Winter: Mild in the south (8 – 15°C), cold in the north with temperatures near 0°C and possible snow.

• Weather varies by region: The north is colder and wetter; the south is generally warmer and drier year-round.

In terms of the Italy travel guide, the most enjoyable months are in spring and early autumn.

At the moment, there is the Jubilee 2025, also called the Holy Year, a major Catholic event happening from Christmas Eve 2024 to Epiphany 2026. Tourist numbers are expected to climb from 13 million to 35 million. So plan ahead to avoid the crowds.

What are the best months to visit Italy? It’s from late April to early June. The weather is warm without being too hot. The skies are usually clear and the landscapes are vibrant. 

Then comes early autumn, especially September and October. You can enjoy cooler air and softer sunlight, perfect for Instagram-worthy pictures! You also get the bonus of local food festivals and harvest markets.

What is the coldest month in Italy? January is when winter really settles in across Italy. In the north, it can get icy cold, especially in the mountains where snow blankets everything. Even the central regions feel crisp, so it’s the quietest time for those who prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind bundling up.

2. Safety

The country is also known for being a relatively safe country to travel to. The crime rate is relatively low, especially for violent crimes. The homicide rate in Italy was 0.51 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2021,  which is among the lowest in Europe and the world. The primary security concerns are not related to violent crime, but rather to petty theft and opportunistic scams that target tourists in crowded areas. Practice common sense and safe travel practices whenever you are.

3. Dress Code For Sacred Places

Among the do’s and don'ts when visiting Italy, there is one simple rule that applies to all genders: shoulders and knees must be covered when visiting churches and cathedrals.

Prohibited items include sleeveless or tank tops, low-cut shirts, crop tops that expose the midriff, and any shorts or skirts that end above the knee. Men are also required to remove hats upon entering.

Whilst some vendors near major tourist sites sell disposable paper ponchos or scarves at inflated prices, it is far more practical and respectful to arrive prepared.

The most effective tool for compliance is a lightweight scarf or pashmina. It can be easily carried in a day bag and quickly draped over the shoulders when needed.

4. Table Service Charge And Tipping

Do you know about these charges in Italy? Photo by luengo_ua on stock.adobe.com

The coperto is a fixed, per-person cover charge that appears on the bill at most sit-down restaurants. Ranging from €1 to €5, it covers the cost of the bread, olive oil, table linens, and place settings. This is a legal, traditional charge, not a tip, and it must be listed on the menu. However, charging a coperto is banned in the Lazio region, which includes Rome.

A servizio is a service charge, typically 10-20%, that is sometimes added to the bill, especially in heavily touristed areas or for large groups. If a servizio is listed on the check, no additional tip is required or expected, as this charge is intended for the staff.

Tipping, or la mancia, is not a widespread custom in Italy and is never obligatory. For particularly good service, it is a common and appreciated gesture to round up the bill or leave a few euro coins in cash on the table.

5. Is Italy Expensive To Visit?

Frankly, Italy is hardly the most affordable place to visit in Europe. According to budgetyourtrip, A typical traveller spends $230 (€199) per day on a trip to Italy. This number is comparable to that of the Netherlands, the UK, and Greece. However, it is still lower than the cost of travelling in Switzerland. So yes, it’s a hard truth: you will have to really prepare your wallet before visiting Italy.

6. Cash

It’s easy to pay almost anything with a credit card. Withdrawing euros from the ATMs is also safe and easy (remember to decline the automatic conversion on the machine). Keep some cash on you to pay for public bathrooms, though.

Pickpocketing is a rampant problem, especially in Rome. So always keep your passport, cash, and credit cards in a bum bag.

4. Transportation - How to get around Italy?

An overview of commuting in Italy:

1. By Train

Any good Italy travel guide would advise you to travel by train. Photo by ako-photography on stock.adobe.com

If you don’t know, Italy offers high-speed train networks that significantly reduce travel time. Moreover, you can capture several stunning pictures of countryside views along the way.

Regional trains, on the other hand, connect smaller towns and villages, giving you a chance to see a quieter side of Italy. 

We recommend booking tickets online in advance through Trenitalia or Italo to snag better prices and reserve your seat.

Don’t forget: if you’re taking a regional train, you’ll need to validate your paper ticket before boarding to avoid fines.

2. By Car

If your plans include exploring the countryside, like Tuscany’s vineyards or the Amalfi Coast’s cliffside roads, you should rent a car. So, you can stop in hidden villages or any picture-worthy places to capture the moment, but you had better check for ZTL zones in historic centres. 

Plus, many travellers don’t realise that entering these restricted traffic areas can lead to hefty fines, so it’s worth parking outside city centres and using public transport once you’re there. Booking a rental car online before your trip is usually cheaper, and an international driving permit might be required.

3. Domestic Flights

For travellers short on time or heading to islands like Sicily and Sardinia, domestic flights are a quick solution. You can seek low-cost airlines like ITA Airways for budget-friendly tickets between major cities. Sometimes, a high-speed train ends up being faster door-to-door, but flights are unbeatable for long distances or island hops.

4. By Bus

Buses are a solid choice if you’re travelling on a budget or heading somewhere without train service. You can search and book tickets from FlixBus and Itabus, which cover most of Italy, from big cities to small towns. 

However, bus stations can be outside city centres, so it’s smart to check the exact location before booking your ticket. While buses are slower than trains, they can be a fun, laid-back way to see the Italian countryside.

5. Accommodation Options

A hilltop view of Neive, one of the most picturesque villages in Piedmont. Photo by monticellllo on stock.adobe.com

This Italy travel guide section will walk you through the most popular accommodation types and what kind of traveller they suit best.

1. Hostels

Hostels aren’t just for backpackers anymore. In Italy, they are stylish, comfortable and designed with design-led spaces. Plus, you can absolutely expect rooftop aperitivos, in-house DJs and free pasta nights. Top-rated picks we want to recommend are The Yellow in Rome and the  Combo in Venice. Both of them receive positive reviews from travellers. 

CabinZero’s tip: Book directly on the hostel's website for the best rates and perks.

2. Agriturismo

Agriturismi are farmstay hotels located in the countryside that sit on actively productive farms. In Tuscany, Puglia, and Sicily, where picturesque vineyards and olive groves coexist with friendly locals, they are particularly prevalent.

There are over 20,000 of these farms across the country. A few are held by the same family for centuries. In Tuscany, you can stroll through vineyards that produced the wine in your glass. It is possible to get instruction in making orecchiette by hand from a sunny courtyard in Puglia.

3. Albergo Diffuso

Don't miss boutique hotels or Albergo Diffuso if you want a more intimate stay than a chain hotel, but still convenient to the city. Rooms are dispersed throughout a village but are centrally managed in this distinctively Italian model.

They are frequently found in historic structures that have been restored in places like Florence, Bologna, and Lecce. Perfect for singles or couples. Additionally, they frequently include local suggestions that aren't found in the typical travel guide to Italy.

4. Vineyard Estate

If you're dreaming of a stay that feels lifted from a film, Italy’s vineyard estates and castle hotels deliver just that. Places like Castello di Vicarello in Tuscany offer not just a place to sleep but a full sensory experience with vineyards, olive groves, and stone walls. Many of these properties blend rustic elegance with luxury service. It's not the cheapest option, but it’s worth considering if you’re celebrating a special occasion or want a stay that feels like a movie scene. 

6. Top Destinations

This section is among the favourites of every Italy travel guide: top destinations for tourists. These are the most popular and likely to be found on any Italy travel itinerary out there.

1. Rome 

Rome, the "Eternal City’ of Italy. Photo by Daniel CHETRONI on stock.adobe.com

Rome was Italy's most popular travel destination in 2024, with 22 million arrivals, setting new tourism records. Start the day at the Colosseum. You will not need over an hour unless you are really interested in Roman history. Right opposite the road is the Roman Forum; take your time out here.  Later in the day, make your way to Trastevere. It's a bit rough around the edges in the best way: lively and full of charm. As the sun begins to set, walk across Ponte Sant’Angelo.

2. Florence

Florence, or Firenze in Italian, is the heart of the Italian Renaissance. Photo by xbrchx on stock.adobe.com

Florence (or Firenze, as the locals call it) is where the Renaissance was born. Start at Palazzo Vecchio, where politics and art shared the same space. Then stroll over to the Uffizi Gallery to get your art fix. At the Galleria dell’Accademia, slow down in front of Michelangelo’s David. Take a moment. You’ll see the veins, the tension, the hand-carved detail that makes this statue so alive. Florence also speaks frequently through its food. Don't miss the Pistachio cake at La Gioia Toscana for dessert. Crispy outside, soft within deepens without frills. And don't miss the butter chicken at Trattoria Sostanza.

3. Cinque Terre 

See how enchanting these colourful coastal village ares. Photo by Jenifoto on stock.adobe.com

Cinque Terre deserves a spot on your travel list. This stretch of five fishing villages brings an authentic vibe for any tourists. Following the trails, you pass vineyards that lean toward the sea, dry stone walls patched by time. The food is direct and unfussy. Pesto is ground that morning. And the white wine is grown in the same hills you hiked through. You won’t find souvenirs that stand out. But you might remember the shape of the path to the next village. 

4. Amalfi Coast

The scene is like heaven on Earth! Photo by neirfy on stock.adobe.com

The Amalfi Coast remains a timeless destination. Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello are frequently used as film sets thanks to their stunning cliffside architecture. The Ravello Festival, running since 1953, offers open-air concerts overlooking the sea on the famous Villa Rufolo terraces. We also suggest visiting the Grotta dello Smeraldo in Conca dei Marini. From here, the emerald water glows beneath a sea cave lit by sunlit fissures. Literary fans may recognise Positano as the setting that inspired The Talented Mr. Ripley.

5. Venice

No Italian trip is complete without visiting Venice. Photo by denis_333 on stock.adobe.com

Venice is a mix of charm and crowd management pressures. Tourists often flock to St. Mark’s Square and gondola rides, but the city’s true personality lives in sestieri like Cannaregio or Dorsoduro. Soft morning light on the Grand Canal makes for peaceful canal-side cafés before the crowds descend. Watch artisans carve masks, then wander narrow alleys that suddenly open onto hidden plazas with no signs. Day trips to Burano and Torcello offer calm colour and lake-like serenity. 

6. Milan

You can not resist the beauty of Milan. Photo by pillerss on stock.adobe.com

Milan recorded 12.5 million overnight stays in 2024, driven by fashion shows, youth culture, and a global design scene (it’s the home of Prada and Armani after all). This city has been one of the most famous destinations in any Italy travel guide recently. Rome and Florence have epic art, but the queues are insane. Milan, on the other hand, also offers world-class masterpieces with a bit more breathing room. Its location is a huge plus. Thanks to the fantastic train system, Milan is the perfect basecamp for incredible day trips such as Lake Como or Bergamo

7. Italy Travel Tips

Other than the essentials for your Italy trip, you also need to take note of some travel tips to avoid surprises during the journey. 

1. Book Top Attractions Ahead 

Italy attracts millions of visitors each year, so expect long lines at the most popular attractions. If you intend to visit the Vatican Museums, the Colosseum, or the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, do not wait until you arrive to purchase tickets. Many of these locations require timed entries, and last-minute spots can sell out days in advance, particularly during the spring and summer.

2. Get Around Smart

Taxis are not always easily accessible in Italian cities. Fares can be high, drivers may not speak English, and you won't be able to hail a taxi unless you're at an official stand. That is why you can take the bus or walk.

Trenitalia and Italo can help with train schedules. Google Maps is reliable for metro and bus routes. Furthermore, in cities like Florence and Venice, walking is the best way to see the sights. When travelling between cities, high-speed trains are more comfortable and cost less if booked ahead of time. 

3. Respect The Mealtimes

Most restaurants won't offer dinner before 7 p.m. Many restaurants close for lunch or dinner. Tourists often get caught off guard wandering hungry in the afternoon, so you should plan snack breaks accordingly. 

4. Refill Your Bottle 

We advise you to carry a reusable water bottle because you may be going on a lot of walks. The country's tap water is safe to drink, and historic public fountains (nasoni) can be found all throughout towns like Bologna, Florence, and Rome. Beautiful fountains known as nasoni, which provide free cold, fresh water, can be found throughout Rome in particular.

5. Learn Basic Italian Phrases 

You don't need to be fluent in Italian to travel successfully, but it does make your travel a lot easier if you know a few words. The locals will really appreciate it when visitors take the time to speak their language, even if it's just a basic "ciao," "grazie," or "scusi." So, they're more likely to help you out when you're lost, or even offer local tips that guidebooks miss.

6. Have a Backpack And A Crossbody Bag

Italy is a traveller's dream, but it can quickly become a nightmare if you bring the wrong luggage. Leave the rolling suitcase at the hotels; the secret to truly enjoying Italy is the two-bag system.

First, your main pack. A carry-on backpack is your absolute best friend on Italy’s charmingly uneven cobbled streets and endless flights of stairs. It makes hopping on and off trains a breeze and keeps your hands free for a quick IG shot.

Second, and this is non-negotiable, is a crossbody bag. In crowded piazzas or busy train stations, it keeps your passport, phone, and wallet secure and right in front of you.

Together, they give you freedom and peace of mind so you can focus on soaking up the sights and culture.

Wrapping Up

Italy tends to steal your heart, from the lively piazzas to the peaceful splendour of its countryside. We hope the Italy travel guide here helps you to get the most out of every experience, with inside knowledge and local information that deviates from the standard tourist track.

If you’ve been to Italy or are dreaming of your first trip, we’d love to hear your thoughts. Drop a comment and share this guide with someone planning their Italian getaway. Safe travels and enjoy every step of the journey!

Ha Ngan