OECTA - Religious Education AQ in Italy - Summer 2025

It is easy to understand why Italy is one of the world’s most celebrated tourist destinations. This is a country that truly does have it all: exquisite landscapes, an abundance of art and architectural treasures, world renowned museums and a national obsession with decadent food and fine wine. Not to mention the country’s sun-kissed olive groves, glacial lakes, fiery volcanoes and snow capped peaks. Dive the clear green waters of the Mediterranean, browse the market stalls in Naples or experience the diverse wildlife inhabiting the country’s national parks. And if you find the vast range of choices overwhelming, take some advice from the locals: sit back, relax and take a moment to indulge in the “bella vita” (the good life). As they say: when in Rome!

Currency 

Local currency: Euro 
Symbol: € 
ISO code: EUR 
Subunit: Cent 
Banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500 
Coins: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1, €2 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: Yes 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM and 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: Yes (Limited hours) 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

ITA Airways (Italia Trasporto Aereo S.p.A)  is the main domestic carrier. For the best deals on flights to Italy, it is recommended when possible to choose to travel out of season. Otherwise book ahead as peak times such as Easter week, the summer holiday period of July and August, and Christmas can experience increased demand and increased prices.

Italy has many regional airports offering good coverage of the whole peninsula. While flying may be the best option when travelling the length and breadth of the country, shorter routes are better served by the high-speed train network.
Italy has well developed public and private transportation options. The Italian rail network is extensive, especially in the north, generally eclipsing the need for an alternative such as bus or air (both of which, however, exist to some extent). While a number of private railroads exist and provide mostly commuter-type services, the national railway, Ferrovie dello Stato, also provides a sophisticated high-speed rail service that joins the major cities of Italy from Naples through northern cities such as Milan and Turin

Self-drive car hire services are available in most cities, airports and resorts. Many international and Italian firms operate this service. Booking online, in advance, generally yields the best prices. The minimum driving age is 18. Speed limits are 50kph (31mph) in urban areas, 90kph (55mph) on ordinary roads, 110kph (68mph) on dual carriageways and 130kph (80mph) on motorways. Dipped headlights are compulsory outside built-up areas during the day. All vehicles must carry a red warning triangle. Seat belts are compulsory. Note: Fines for driving offences are on-the-spot and particularly heavy.

All EU member states’ driving licenses are recognised in Italy. In practice, many car hire agencies also accept many non-EU licences such as thos from Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the US. Drivers from other countries will need an International Driving Permit. Visitors must carry their log-book, which must be in their name as owner, or have the owner's written permission to drive the vehicle. A driving licence or a motorcycle driving licence is required for motorcycles over 49cc.

There is a very efficient inter-city bus service. The buses are modern, comfortable, fast and well equipped. They also provide a very economical way of traveling around the country.

There are a lot of islands off the coast of Italy, including the major ones of Sardinia and Sicily, so naturally there are a lot of ferries traveling backwards and forwards.

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: Yes 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Italian cuisine is celebrated globally for its diversity and flavors. From pasta dishes like spaghetti carbonara and lasagna to pizzas with various toppings, Italian food delights the palate. Risotto, gnocchi, and antipasti are also popular. Italy is renowned for its wine, with varieties like Chianti and Barolo. Limoncello, grappa, and espresso are notable local drinks. 
Tipping: Not expected, but rounding up the bill is appreciated. 

Annual rainfall: Varies by region 

Average temperature: Varies by region 

Summer: 

Average highs: 25°C - 30°C 
Average lows: 15°C - 20°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 8°C - 15°C 
Average lows: 0°C - 5°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Italy is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and crowds are fewer. 

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes