Venice

It is easy to understand why Italy is one of the world’s most celebrated tourist destinations. This is a country that truly has 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 “la dolce 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
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:
Hours vary by bank and branch:
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

Air:

Note: Most Italian airports serve both domestic and international routes; these categories indicate their main role for travellers.

Ryanair, easyJet, ITA Airways

Major International Airports: Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (Rome), Malpensa Airport (Milan), Linate Airport (Milan), Milan Bergamo Airport (Milan), Marco Polo Airport (Venice)

Regional Airports: Florence Airport, Turin Airport, Cagliari Airport, Pisa International Airport, Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, Brindisi Airport, Verona Airport

Domestic/Regional Hubs: Naples International Airport, Catania–Fontanarossa Airport, Palermo Airport, Bari Airport, Bologna Airport

Road:

Driving on the: Right
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: No
Valid International Driver's License needed: For a non-EU traveller, Italy's official tourism guidance says an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes

Bus:

Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes

Rail:

Railway system: Yes
Subway System: Yes

Water:

Ferries: Yes
Water taxis: Yes
Leisure cruises: Yes

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 flavours. 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 significantly by region. Please note that this indicates a general overview; temperatures can vary considerably and periods of extreme weather, including heatwaves, can occur. Check temperatures for your specific destination before travelling.

Northern Italy
Summer: Highs 24.4°C | Lows 10.1°C
Winter: Highs 9.9°C | Lows −2.7°C

Southern Italy
Summer: Highs 29.6°C | Lows 17.2°C
Winter: Highs 14.9°C | Lows 5.8°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