Italy: home to Rome, Venice, Florence, and many other beautiful cities and towns. With its rich history, stunning architecture, delicious food and wine, and breathtaking landscapes, it’s no wonder that Italy is a dream vacation destination for many people.
If you’re planning your first trip to Italy, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make the most out of your experience. Here are some tips to help you plan an unforgettable vacation in this beautiful country.
Book Your Trip
When are you planning to visit? What plane or train will you take? Where will you stay? These are important questions to consider when planning your trip to Italy. We recommend booking your trip well in advance to secure the best deals on flights, accommodations, and activities. Keep in mind that peak tourist season in Italy is during the summer months (June–August), so if you prefer a less crowded experience, consider visiting during shoulder season (April–May or September–October) or off-season (November–March).
Plan an Itinerary
Another tip for planning your first vacation to Italy is to not skimp on said planning! Italy has so much to offer that it can be overwhelming trying to figure out where to start. An itinerary can help you make the most out of your trip.
Start by deciding what places you want to visit and for how long, taking into consideration travel time between cities. Make a list of must-see Italian cities and landmarks, and then plan your route accordingly. Don’t try to cram too much into one trip—it’s better to fully experience a few places than to rush through multiple cities.
Learn Some Basic Italian
One thing you shouldn’t forget when traveling to Europe is that not everybody there speaks English. Italy happens to be a fairly English-friendly country, but it’s always nice to make an effort and learn some basic Italian phrases. This will help you communicate with locals and navigate your way around.
Here are a few basic phrases to get you started:
- “Buongiorno”—Good morning/day
- “Grazie”—Thank you
- “Per favore”—Please
- “Mi scusi”—Excuse me/sorry
- “Quanto costa?”—How much does it cost?
- “Dov’è il bagno?”—Where is the bathroom?
- “Posso avere il conto?”—Can I have the bill?
Familiarize Yourself With the Local Customs and Etiquette
Did you know that in Italy, it’s rude to eat while walking? Or that it’s customary to say “Buongiorno” or “Buonasera” when entering shops or restaurants?
Tourists will always stick out to some degree, but if you take the time to familiarize yourself with local customs and etiquette, you can blend in much more easily. Take the time to look into the specific customs of the area you’ll be visiting, as they can vary greatly from region to region, and commit them to memory.
Visiting a new country for the first time can be intimidating, but Italy is a lovely country with warm, friendly people and a rich culture. As long as you plan your trip well in advance so you can see the best sights and experience the best of Italian culture, you’ll have a wonderful time there.
