Italy Travel Tips: Tips to use for Travel in 2025!
- Angie - Your Guide
- Jun 24
- 13 min read
Updated: Jul 12
Table of Contents
Planning your first trip to Italy? Bellissimo! Italy Vacations are the best! Here's the ultimate Italy travel tips, a guide to traveling Italy the smart way. From avoiding common pitfalls to blending in with the locals, we’ve got you covered. Grab an espresso and read on.
Do You Need a Car in Italy? Here's the Truth
Leave the car keys behind!
Skip the car in major cities like Florence, Rome, Venice, and Naples. Public transport is reliable, and high-speed trains are fast, clean, and efficient. Traveling between destinations? The train is part of the magic.
Parking: It can cost. ZTL zones (restricted traffic areas) can catch you off-guard, and city traffic is far from relaxing. Avoid the headache. All of those one-way streets, they are beautiful to walk down, but driving and parking on is impossible. Do not trust your GPS to avoid those ZLT zones that are in more than 350 cities in Italy. You will be fined €150- €300 ($172-$345) if you illegally park in an ZTL zone and tickets could take up to a year to find you at your house.
When should you rent a car? Only if you’re exploring the charming Tuscan countryside or remote villages in Puglia. Even then, parking can still be tricky. Public transportation could take longer or be nonexistent for some villages in Italy.
Amalfi Coast? The roads are packed, and scooters whiz by and scare you to death. Stick to the joyful chaos of a bus, ferry or if brave a taxi. A client complained that he thought the driver of a taxi drove way too fast on the Amalfi coast cliffs, but drivers tend to be used to this area so they will be above what us travelers feel comfortable with.
Cinque Terre? Also not recommended due to winding roads and limited parking. The Train connects to all 5 villages. If visiting for a day or two, take small group tours and leave the driving for the locals.
Pro Tip: For a stress-free Italian escape, rely on trains and buses. They’ll take you almost everywhere you need to go!
Passport Rules (That No One Tells You)
Keep this in your wallet (and your brain):
Non-EU travelers must carry a physical passport at all times.
EU citizens can use their national ID card instead.
Police can ask for identification, especially in cities or train stations. A phone photo of your passport will not work. I did not see this happen on my trip, but I have seen several warnings on it when I was reading up for my trip.
Hotels, VRBO's, and Airbnbs are legally required to register your ID at check-in.
Hot Tip: Stash a digital backup of your passport in your cloud or email just in case, but the real deal should stay within reach (preferably in a zipped pocket). This can be scary for those of you taking a cruise. So, if you fly to Rome a few days early to explore the city, don't lose that passport before you get on a cruise ship.
Chargers & Hair Tools—Don’t Fry Your Stuff
Voltage drama? Not on my watch!
Italy uses Type L plugs and 220V electricity. This is different from the United States and also different from other European countries. So, if buying an adaptor make sure it says it works in Italy.
Most phone and laptop chargers are dual voltage. Just bring a plug adapter. I bought mine on Amazon for under €20 ($23)
Hair dryers, curling irons, and straighteners usually aren’t dual voltage. Honestly, I would leave those at home anyways. I pack light when traveling, but I know some of you have to use these items. Just make sure before your trip the adaptor you bought works for what you need.
Pro Tip: Some accommodations barely have enough outlets to charge your phone, so a USB multi-port charger is a lifesaver!
Getting Sick in Italy? No Problem!
Here’s what to do if you’re not feeling your best:
Visit a farmacia (pharmacy) first. They’re great for cold remedies, painkillers, or stomach meds. Ask the pharmacist for help too.
Need stronger meds like antibiotics? Ask a doctor for a prescription.
Many major cities have English-speaking tourist doctors, but it’ll cost you €50–€100 ($57.47-$114.95).
For emergencies, go to the Pronto Soccorso (ER). Urgent care is free—even for tourists! I was shocked to learn this on my research for traveling to Italy a few years ago.
After hours, look for the "farmacia di turno," the one open late.
Pickpocket Protection 101
Italy’s safe but watch your stuff in crowded spots. Pickpockets are smooth operators.
Keep bags zipped and carry them in front of you. Cross body bags are great, but will make you look like a tourist in many cases.
Never leave your phone on a restaurant table. Even right in front of you, you could be distracted by someone coming up to the table to talk to you and they swipe your phone.
If you hang your jacket on the back of a chair, don't leave items in the pockets of the jacket.
Never leave the table without taking all your possessions with you. I know in Japan people will leave their jackets on the chair, and purses on the table. This is not the case in Italy.
Skip the back pocket for wallets. I know someone who lost their wallet this way at the Trevi Fountain. Luckily, they knew better than to keep all their credit cards in that wallet.
Stay vigilant in busy train stations, metro lines, and tourist favorites like the Colosseum or Piazza San Marco.
If something happens (I hope it doesn’t!):
Report the theft to the police (Questura). It is basically guaranteed it won't be tracked down and found though.
Contact your embassy for assistance with new passports. The U.S. Embassy in Rome is easy to get to in Rome. Honestly it is not far from the Termini train station.
Cancel credit cards ASAP.
Always stash a backup card or cards and some spare cash in a separate spot. Many people do not like to use hotel safes anymore. I still do and have not had a problem leaving items in the safe in my room.
Con Artists
I have seen it all, and this is not something that just happens in large cities in Italy. I have seen it in Paris, Lisbon, and Barcelona too. Avoid eye contact and walk away.
People trying to sell you whatever trinket that have. (Bracelet, rose, etc.)
Do not let them put it in your hand. Once it is in your hand they will demand payment.
If they drop it in front of you don't pick it up to give them. They dropped it for a reason, wanting you to pick it up so they can get money from you for it.
If you have taken the item and they will not take it back. Drop it on the ground and walk away. Some will start yelling as you walk away but keep walking.
My experience was at the Pantheon in Rome, an older woman dressed up like a nun was carrying a rose. I smiled at her thinking she was a nun and she smiled back and dropped the rose. Being the nice person I am I picked it up to give back to her and she held out her hand for money. I tired to give the rose back and she would move her hand away not allowing me to give it back. Speaking in Italian loudly. At this moment I knew I was being scammed, so I dropped the rose on the ground and started to walk away. She kept speaking/yelling as I walked away, but she did not follow me. I would have spent more time at the Pantheon if this had not happened.
How to Eat Like a Local (and Avoid Tourist Areas)
If a waiter’s yelling “Hello! English menu?” walk on by. They are not authentic gems. Other signs are laminated menus, pictures, or flags. Now don't get me wrong, you will find some great ones but for a true Italian experience, this is not the case.
Take a short stroll from tourist attractions to find hidden, authentic gems. One block from the Pantheon I found a cafe with many locals while I was walking around. This was when I realized I needed to have an espresso here!
For the best restaurants, look for a trattoria with a handwritten menu that’s short and seasonal, and ask for house wine.
Avoid spots offering pizza, fettuccini alfredo, burgers, and sushi, on the same menu. Pro Tip: Fettuccini Alfredo is American, not Italian.
Bread and water aren’t free. Americans tend to believe this, based on many US restaurants that bring bread to the table and not charge for tap water. It’s normal here to be charged for these 2 items! Check the menu prices to avoid surprises.
Visit Local Markets or Piazza's. I love Campo de Fiori in Rome
Search for Google reviews in Italian to spot local-approved places.
Want authenticity? Dine where locals gather after 8 PM. Dinner is late in Italy.
Credit Cards are usually accepted.
Restaurant Etiquette Tips:
Ask for the check (“Il conto, per favore”). It won’t come automatically.
Tipping isn’t expected but appreciated. A euro or two is plenty.
Never order cappuccino after lunch. Instead, coffee means espresso.
When craving pasta, order Cacio e Pepe, or Carbonara. You will love it
Gelato, Cannoli and Tiramisu
There are so many deserts to try in Italy and here are a few facts about some American Favorites. But I highly suggest trying a variety of other desserts to while in Italy. They are all amazing!
Gelato- Don't just get Gelato at any random Gelato spot. Get some from an authentic spot. Did you know it was the Gelato we know today has ties to the Renaissance period of Florence Italy. The Medici family had served it in court when they ruled. Rome has great Gelato too, but look at the colors. If they are pretty bright colors then it is artificially flavored and not authentic. Back at the times of ancient Rome they had a version of "gelato" or "Sherbert" in Rome, but it more or less disappeared with the fall of the Roman Empire.
Cannoli- This is Sicilian, but you will find it everywhere in Italy. River reeds were initially used as a way to set the pastry, to form the circle to be filled with the creamy inside. If visiting this section of Italy, it is a must but try it anywhere in Italy and ask for the Pistachio.
Tiramisu- Originated in Treviso near Venice in the 1800's but is well made and well-loved throughout the country. Originally found mentioned in notes from a poet that lived in the area, stating that his grandmother would make and eat it in the winter. I found that to be funny because the best Tiramisu I ever had was made by an Italian Grandmother. So, if you are near the Grand Canal of Venice, try Tiramisu.
Train Ticket Validation Rules and More
Italian trains are fantastic—once you master the ticket system. Buy your tickets early, as prices go up, but also be aware of strikes. Every time I visit my train travel plans end up changing some due to Strikes.
When to validate your ticket: (use yellow or green machines at the station) There could be regional variations with slightly different colors.
Any paper regional ticket (often purchased in tobacco shops or stations).
Any ticket without a seat reservation.
When NOT to validate your ticket:
Digital tickets (on your phone) or tickets bought online with seat reservations.
High-speed train tickets (e.g., Frecciarossa or Intercity) that include specific reservations.
Pro Tip: Always check for validation machines before boarding. If they’re broken, find a conductor right away to avoid fines of €50–200 ($57.47-$229.89)!
Train Travel Tips
My best friends missed several trains last year on their Italian adventure. While they learned a lot by missing these trains, it is not fun to be delayed in your trip due to mistakes like they made.
Public Toilet: One of my friends missed the train, thinking he had enough time to find a toilet before boarding. He had 5 minutes to spare and thought it would be fine. Wrong, the train was pulling out as he was walking up the train. You have to be onboard the train before the time on the ticket. They will not hold the train. My other friend traveling with him was asking them to hold the train knowing that he would be walking up in just a minute, needless to say they would not hold the train. There are public toilets on board a train.
Allow Extra Time: Factor in validation time, especially during busy periods when machines may have queues. Also, you will not be familiar with the train station, not knowing exactly where to go as this will most likely be your first time visiting. This will mean more time is needed, just in case you walk the wrong way. Small cities' train stations are simple to figure out, but big cities like Rome's Termini Station might cause a little bit more walking or confusion.
Personally, with my time in Florence Italy I thought the Train Station was very easy to navigate. Where Rome was just a little bit harder. My friends also missed the train one time because they did not leave their hotel early enough. There was traffic in the city as it was a morning, and the taxi was stuck in it.
Specific Train Travel tips from airport Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci to Rome (Termini Train Station)
The Airport is located a distance away from the city center of Rome, making for at the best a 30-minute ride by taxi. Taxis do cost a flat rate usually around €55 ($63.20), but some will try to trap a tourist if they think they can. Travel like a local and take the train from the airport to Termini Train Station. Follow the signs at airport luggage pick up to train stop, it is a little bit of a walk, but manageable with luggage. Look for the train icon or "Stazione FS/Railway Station". Purchase tickets at station or self-service machines.
Quick: Usually quicker than then a taxi ride, if taking the Leonardo Express Train, at 27 minutes.
Cost: Leonardo Express Train about €16 (18.39) for the ride. If you take the local train with stops, it will cost around €8 or €9 ($9.20 to $10.35).
Bus Travel from Airport to City Center of Rome: Cheapest Option at €7 but can take 50 minutes
How to Blend in and Look Like a Local
Tourists are easy to spot—but you don’t have to be!
Don’t linger or look lost. This can be hard when exploring a new country. Do your best to walk with a purpose, as locals know where they are going.
Skip big backpacks and touristy cameras. This really sticks out in small towns.
Italians keep it casual but polished. Jeans and a nice jacket. No athletic wear (unless you’re heading to the gym).
Minimize phone use in public squares.
When in doubt, take a few cues from the locals around you.
Other Italy Travel Tips
Travel Insurance
It is something you buy in hopes that you never need. Luckily healthcare is virtually free in Italy for Tourists, but travel insurance covers so much more.
Lost or Delayed Luggage
Cancelation to your vacation due to preexisting health conditions
Vacations ending early due to preexisting health issues
Canceled or Delayed flights
Health Coverage too!
Visiting Museums and Popular Sites
The first Sunday of every month state owned museums and tourist sites offer free admission. This is great for those who want to visit a place for free, but can cost you in other ways. There are over 400 museums and religious sites all over Italy.
It will be very crowded
Make a plan and go early
Do not try to visit several in one day
Also, something else to think about. Many museums are closed on Mondays. Always plan ahead and double check to see if they will be open before you arrive.
Worried About Speaking the Language?
Most Italians speak at least a little bit of English, but it is always best to know a few words. You will get a warm welcome if you say Ciao instead of hello. Speaking a few basic words will go a long way with the people, but if you want more use the Google Translate App. It works great.
Water Fountains: "Nasoni" or "Fontanelle"
There are over 2500 in Rome alone, but many other cities in Italy have free water fountains too. Many of which date back to ancient Roman times when the aqueducts were being used. There is even an app you can download that tells you where the free water fountains are located. This water is perfectly safe for drinking and tested regularly plus the best part is that it is free. This will save you from trying to buy a bottle of water while you are out exploring Rome or Italy in general. Generally, it is better to bring your reusable bottle to fill at the fountain than to just stick your mouth up to it.
Mosquito Season
If you are traveling to where there is lots of fresh water, lakes, or the coastline where there are lagoons and marshes there will be mosquitos. The season runs from May to September usually, so be prepared if you are out in the country and bring mosquito repellent. My travels have always been off season, so I have never traveled to Italy during the Mosquito season.
Visiting Churches and Basilica's
There are many worth a visit beyond St Peters and the Sistine Chapel in Rome. In fact, there are over 900 churches in Rome alone. Many of these churches and basilicas are free to enter and are amazing, but dress appropriately. No short skirts, shorts, and no sleeveless shirts. You could be turned away from entering.
Pack Light
Nobody likes to travel with lots of luggage. Lugging it around from the airport to train to hotel, or then onto a cruise. Or if you are hitting the road and making several stops via a train. Pack light. You will feel so much better with less to worry about.
Conclusion
Your Italy trip will be a blend of cobblestone streets, incredible food, and magical moments. By traveling smart, planning ahead, and immersing yourself in the local culture, you can skip the rookie mistakes and live la dolce vita to its fullest! Buon viaggio!
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We learned the hard way we needed an international drivers lisence to rent a car. 🫤
Fantastic tips, especially on train travel and safety from pickpockets.
As someone who lived in Italy, I can confirm that these are great tips! Especially about car rental... which might seem like a fun idea at first, but you def need to be prepared haha. Thank you for putting this together!
Great information. Thank you! (It makes me wonder why the guy who went in search of a bathroom didn't just use the one aboard the train ...)
Such a great post! Oh I feel prey to the bracelet on the wrist in Milan. 😳 You’re right about the cars. I was so scared walking in Rome years ago due to the fast driving so can’t even imagine in Cinque Terre.