Basilica San Miniato al Monte
Basilica San Miniato al Monte is a historic church in Florence, situated on a hill overlooking the city. Its Romanesque structure, beautiful mosaics, and peaceful cemetery create
Italy is one of the most sought after countries in Europe. The food, the wine, the culture, and the warm European vibe makes it pretty awesome.
The best time to go to Italy is from April to June or between September to October, when the weather is at its best and the crowds aren’t as bad. Peak season of travel in Italy is from May and June and can get very crowded.
We hope this Italy travel guide can help you plan your trip, learn about the must-see places in the Netherlands, give you travel tips and ensure you make the most out of your trip to the Italy.
Naples – A beautiful city located amidst a stunning view of the sea. Part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this lovely city is the birth place of everyone’s favorite — pizza!
Florence – A home of iconic architectural structures and art. You’d be surprised at how many times Florence is mentioned in your art history classes.
Pisa – Home to the Leaning Tower of Pisa with a lot of beautiful history.
Venice – No doubt the most romantic city in the world. Famous celebrities (like George Clooney) get married in Venice.
Rome – The capital city of Italy is also a home to many iconic structures like the Colosseum and the Pantheon. You can literally find a breathtaking sight on every corner!
Milan – For those who love fashion, Milan is definitely the place to be.
Amalfi coast – A beautiful stretch of coastline along the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula.
Cinque Terre: This collection of five fishing villages nestled along the rugged Italian Riviera offers awe-inspiring views, colorful houses, and scenic hiking trails that wind through vineyards and olive groves.
Sicily: Italy’s largest island, Sicily, combines Greek and Roman ruins, Baroque architecture, and stunning beaches. Delight in the vibrant markets, ancient temples, and the iconic Mount Etna.
Whether you prefer flying, train travel, or cruising, this article will provide you with the necessary information to embark on your Italian adventure.
Flying is the most common and convenient way to reach Italy from international destinations. Italy boasts numerous airports, including major international hubs and regional airports. Tons of regular and budget airlines fly into Italy.
Here are some of the popular airports in Italy that are frequently chosen as entry points for international travelers:
Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) – Rome:
Located in the capital city, Rome, Fiumicino Airport is Italy’s busiest airport and serves as a major hub for international flights. It offers excellent connectivity to destinations worldwide.
Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) – Milan:
Situated near Milan, Malpensa Airport is one of the largest airports in Italy and a significant international gateway. It serves as a primary arrival point for travelers visiting northern Italy.
Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) – Venice:
Located on the mainland, Marco Polo Airport is the primary airport serving Venice, one of Italy’s most enchanting cities. It offers convenient access to the Venetian lagoon and surrounding areas.
Naples International Airport (NAP) – Naples:
Naples Airport serves as a crucial point of entry for travelers exploring southern Italy, including the stunning Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and the island of Capri.
Florence Airport (FLR) – Florence:
Located just a short distance from the city center, Florence Airport is a popular choice for travelers visiting the beautiful region of Tuscany. It offers convenient access to Florence’s renowned art and architecture.
Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) – Bologna:
Bologna Airport serves as a gateway to the charming city of Bologna and the Emilia-Romagna region. It is well-connected to several European destinations and offers convenient onward travel options.
For travelers in Europe, train travel can be an enjoyable and scenic option to reach Italy. Italy is well-connected to its neighboring countries through an extensive rail network. Here are some useful resources and companies for train travel:
If you’re seeking a unique and leisurely travel experience, cruising to Italy can be an excellent option. Italy has numerous ports along its coastline that serve as gateways for cruise ships. Here are a few notable cruise lines offering trips to Italy:
This is my recommended way of getting around Italy has an extensive and efficient train network, making it an excellent option for getting around the country. The national railway company, Trenitalia, operates both regional and high-speed trains, connecting major cities and smaller towns. Sample commute times include:
Buses are another affordable and widespread mode of transportation in Italy, offering connectivity to both major cities and remote areas. Several bus companies operate throughout the country, including:
Renting a car in Italy offers flexibility, especially when exploring remote areas and picturesque countryside. Many international car rental companies, as well as local providers, are available. Keep in mind that traffic and parking in major cities can be challenging. Sample drive times include:
Domestic flights can be particularly beneficial when covering longer
distances or when time is limited, allowing you to maximize your
exploration of different regions in Italy. Italy has a well-developed domestic flight network, allowing for quick and convenient travel between major cities and regions. Several airlines operate domestic flights within Italy, including:
Sample travel times by plane within Italy include:
In cities like Rome and Florence, scooters and bicycles are popular choices for short-distance travel. Rental services are widely available, allowing you to experience the charm of Italian streets while avoiding traffic congestion. Sample travel times are dependent on distance and local traffic conditions.
If you are looking for an excellent private driver experience I recommend Umberto and his team at Italy Driver.
Make reservations. Dining in Italy is a totally different experience. Italians take cooking very seriously and their food is considered some of the best in the world. Make sure to research what to eat and where to dine. Some restaurants, especially the famous ones or those who are Michelin starred, require advance reservations.
Plan in Advance: This goes hand in hand with the above tip. Italy is a popular tourist destination, so it’s advisable to plan your trip in advance, especially for visiting major attractions, booking accommodations, and securing tickets for popular sites. I recommend skip-the-line tickets for everything.
Don’t act reckless. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and don’t forget about your personal belongings while taking in the sights. Italy is a beautiful place but there are still a lot of skillful pick-pocketers around places frequented by tourists. Don’t get too drunk and irresponsible as you will be a likely target.
Don’t be surprised if some of the establishments are closed at noon. Europeans treasure their afternoon time very seriously. Siesta time or Reposo is practiced by most establishments and key places of interests in Italy – even churches. They allow an afternoon break for them to be able to relax or even take a nap. This could be hard to tourists who are
on a tight schedule but it’s their culture and we should respect it.
Enjoy Local Cuisine: Italy is renowned for its delicious food. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in authentic Italian cuisine, try regional specialties (like horse in Verona), and explore local markets for fresh produce, cheese, and wine.
Dress Comfortably and Modestly: Italians tend to dress well and appreciate a sense of style. When visiting churches or religious sites, ensure your attire is modest and respectful. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring Italy’s cobblestone streets.
Explore Beyond the Main Cities: While cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice are popular, consider venturing off the beaten path if you have time to discover charming towns, countryside vineyards, and picturesque coastal villages for a more authentic experience of Italy.
Transportation
Remember that these prices can vary based on season, location, and personal preference. It’s always good to check and compare prices in advance.
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