Tips for Your First Trip to Italy

Italy charms many visitors, undoubtedly. You’ll adore the endless pasta, flowing wine, and historic sites. Likewise, colourful buildings and blue beaches captivate travellers. However, before you pack and indulge in gelato, consider these tips for your first time trip to Italy.

1. Italian Breakfast Customs

Forget typical American breakfasts in Italy. No eggs, sausage, or hash browns here. Instead, Italians enjoy a simple morning meal. Italians eat a small breakfast. They often have a cappuccino and a brioche, which is like a croissant. This is how they start their day.

In Italy, “going to the bar” means getting coffee. It’s not for alcohol. If you want coffee with milk, ask for a “caffe latte.” This helps you order the right drink on your first time trip to Italy.

See Our Guide: How to Eat Like a Local in Italy

2. Italian Business Hours

Shops in Italy close earlier than you may think. Many shut their doors by 1:30 PM or 2 PM on Saturdays. This is different from other countries. Keep this in mind when you plan your day. Furthermore, most businesses take Sundays off entirely. This schedule affects your shopping and dining plans.

Plan your visits carefully to avoid disappointment. Check opening times before heading out. Additionally, remember the midday break most businesses take. Plan your day with these hours in mind. This helps you enjoy Italy more. You’ll have time for shopping and other fun things.

Restaurants Are Closed on Mondays So Plan Ahead

3. Italians Take Midday Breaks

Italians often close shops from 1 PM to 3 PM for lunch and rest. This practice affects your travel plans. Therefore, check opening hours when planning your day. You might struggle to find open restaurants at usual lunch times. Consequently, keep snacks with you for energy.

Italians typically eat dinner around 8 PM. However, you can enjoy “aperitivo” earlier. This light meal and drink keeps you satisfied until dinner time. Adjust your eating schedule accordingly to match local customs. This way, you’ll experience authentic Italian dining culture.

4. Language Differences on Your First Time Trip to Italy

English isn’t widely spoken in Italy. Moreover, most signs are in Italian. Therefore, prepare for language challenges before your trip. Learn key Italian phrases using apps like Duolingo. This effort helps you communicate better.

Also buying a local SIM card means you can use Google Maps without asking for directions. This tool helps you navigate public transport independently. Planning ahead makes your Italian adventure smoother and more enjoyable.

5. Italian Customer Service

Italian service styles contrast with US norms. Greetings matter, but staff won’t hover nearby. You’ll likely need to signal for refills or the bill. This isn’t rudeness; it’s cultural. Therefore, adjust your expectations accordingly.

Wave politely when you need assistance. Likewise, don’t rush through meals. Italians savour dining experiences. Embrace this relaxed approach to service. It’s part of the authentic Italian lifestyle you’ve come to enjoy.

6. Italy: Trains vs Cars

Driving through Italian wine country is unforgettable. However, you don’t need a car in Italy. Public transport is cheaper and easy to use. Trains are particularly efficient.

Remember to validate your train ticket before boarding. If you choose to drive, manual skills save money on rentals. Check Italy’s train website for schedules and fares. This information helps you plan your travels effectively.

7. Avoiding Italy’s Busiest Times

Over 50 million tourists visit Italy yearly. This popularity means crowded attractions. If you’re planning to see monuments, you might feel overwhelmed by the throngs of people.

To dodge crowds, avoid summer trips. From June to August, flights and hotels cost more. Plan your visit for other seasons instead. You’ll enjoy lower prices and fewer tourists. This strategy lets you experience Italy’s beauty more comfortably.

See Our Guide: The Best Time to Visit to Italy

8. Book Early on Your First Time Trip to Italy

Top attractions like the Vatican, Leonardo’s Last Supper, and Pompeii fill up fast. This is especially true during busy summer months. To avoid missing out, plan your trip early.

Buy tickets in advance for must-see sites. Look for “skip-the-line” options to save time. This approach ensures you’ll experience Italy’s best offerings. Planning ahead makes your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

9. Italian Dining Charges

When eating out in Italy, your bill might include unexpected fees. “Coperto” is a per-person cover charge. It ranges from €1-2 in small towns to €4-5 in big cities like Rome or Milan.

“Servizio” is another common charge, replacing tips. It’s often 10-20% in tourist areas like Venice and Florence. These fees are usually listed on menus. Check beforehand to avoid surprises. Understanding these charges helps you budget better for your meals.

See Our Guide: How to Eat Like a Local in Italy

10. Savour Italian Wines

Italy boasts excellent wine regions, especially Tuscany. As a wine lover, don’t miss this opportunity. Try regional wines to enhance your Italian experience.

When unsure, order the house wine from your waiter. It’s often a good, affordable choice. For a deeper understanding, consider booking a Tuscan wine tour. This activity lets you explore Italy’s rich wine culture first hand.

Embrace the Italian Experience

Italy offers amazing adventures for all travellers. These tips help you enjoy your trip like a local. Whether you’re embarking on your first time trip to Italy or you’re an experienced globetrotter, use this advice to enhance your Italian journey.

Relax and savour each moment of your vacation. From delicious food to stunning sights, Italy has much to offer. By understanding local customs, you’ll feel more at home. Consequently, you’ll create unforgettable memories during your first time trip to Italy.

European Travel Update for US Visitors

US travellers. aged 18-70 will need an ETIAS visa-waiver for Schengen Area trips. You’ll fill out a quick form and pay a fee before your journey. Approval is usually instant. However, plan ahead and submit early.

Your ETIAS authorization lasts three years or until your passport expires, whichever happens first. This new rule affects travel to many European countries. Therefore, check if your destination requires ETIAS before booking your trip.

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Travel Planning Guide for Your First Time Trip to Italy

Travel Insurance for Your Italy Trip

Buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Therefore, enjoy your holiday in Italy stress-free with one of my favourite providers, Visitors Coverage Insurance.

Renting a Car in Italy

Indeed, renting a car in Italy is easy and is a great way to explore the Italian countryside freely. Consequently, I recommend booking yours with Rentalcars.com – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

Finding the Perfect Accommodation

When it comes to lodging, the best time to visit Italy can affect your accommodation options and prices. The best way to book your accommodation in Italy is with Booking.com. In fact, it’s my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.

Booking Flights to Italy

Lastly, for air travel, I recommend booking your plane with Omio. Moreover, it has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights.