Traveling to Italy for the first time, I was going to Naples with my family. I was incredibly excited to see a country that I had dreamed of visiting for such a long time. Italy, with its rich history, world-famous cuisine, and vibrant culture, had always seemed like such a special place. With ancient ruins, Renaissance art, bustling markets, picturesque coastal towns, it feels like a country where every corner has a story to tell.
Since it was my first trip to Italy, I knew that I wanted to be prepared in order to make the best of it. I made sure to do as much research as I could about the dos and don’ts of going to Italy. I learned a lot from my preparation, but what really taught me the most was being in Italy itself.
From conversing with the people to observing the customs, nothing was as educational as immersing myself in this beautiful country. In this blog, I share some of the practical tips I learned in my research, as well as the more cultural nuances that I experienced first hand. With these tips in hand, you will be ready to have the trip of a lifetime to Italy.
Note: these tips are from an American perspective, but there is knowledge here that most people new to Italy can use to their benefit.
Traveling to Italy: Essential Travel Logistics Tips
For Italy, visa considerations are pretty straightforward—if you’re an American traveling for under 90 days, no visa is required. However, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date. It’s a detail that’s easy to overlook and often comes as a surprise to those who haven’t done a lot of international travel.
Once you get to Italy, the train system is a great way to get around the country. Italy’s train system is one of the most convenient ways to explore the country and tickets are easy to book. However, and do not forget this tip, DO NOT forget to validate your tickets before boarding your train. Unlike many trains in the US, tickets need to be validated before you get on the train. This can be done at the small machines on the platform before boarding. It’s a small step, but skipping it could result in fines, even if it’s an honest mistake.
Another incredibly important consideration when traveling in Italy is the local holidays and business hours. When planning your itinerary, check out which local holidays may be happening while you are there. It should also be noted that businesses in Italy may have irregular hours in comparison to the United States, especially in smaller towns and villages.
You don’t want to show up to a beachside town on a holiday only to find every shop and restaurant closed.
A quick check in advance can save you the disappointment.The next lesson I quickly learned on that first trip was that jet lag is unavoidable, but it doesn’t have to ruin your first days in Italy. Adjusting to the slower pace of life can help.
My advice? Resist the temptation to nap when you arrive—trust me, I’ve been there! Instead, get outside, soak up some sunlight, drink water, and start syncing with local time. If you’re like me and prefer to stick to a plan, this might feel challenging at first, but Italy is the perfect place to practice going with the flow. Embracing a flexible, laid-back approach makes all the difference.
Culture and Customs: What You Should Know When Traveling to Italy
One of the first things you’ll notice when traveling to Italy—especially in the south—is how much slower life moves. Meals linger, schedules are flexible, and everything feels more relaxed. This means that it is important to pad your schedule with extra time so you can account for any delays.
Plan to get to any appointments or transportation with plenty of time and there shouldn’t be an issue. It can take some getting used to, but once you settle into the rhythm, it’s surprisingly refreshing to move at a slower pace.
One thing I noticed upon arriving in Italy, especially in the more rural areas, is that learning some of the language is incredibly helpful. Speaking even a little Italian can make a big difference and simple phrases like ciao (hello), grazie (thank you), and scusi (excuse me) go a long way, and learning simple phrases, like ordering food, goes even further. Even in major cities, many Italians speak English, but attempting to communicate in Italian shows respect and is always appreciated. It should be noted that regional dialects can vary, so don’t stress about perfection.
While I was in Italy I found that Italians treat dining as an experience in itself—it’s not just about the food but also the culture. Takeout isn’t common because portions are thoughtfully prepared. And don’t be surprised if you’re encouraged to eat more—it’s all part of the hospitality. You also may find that Italians have more rules around eating and drinking than you are used to.
A few common rules include skipping milk-based coffee drinks like cappuccinos after 11 a.m.—Italians believe espresso, with no dairy, is better for digestion later in the day. Also, eating pizza with your hands is not considered the norm, as it leads patrons to eat the pizza too quickly which is also considered bad for digestion. These rules are not there just to be difficult, rather, they come from a place of care for your wellbeing.
Ultimately, hospitality is at the heart of Italian culture and generosity is second nature. Embrace it with gratitude, and you’ll feel right at home before you know it.
Sustainable, Authentic Travel: How to Experience Italy Like a Local
Throughout my adventures traveling to Italy, I quickly realized that the best experiences come from immersing yourself in the local culture. If it’s your first time visiting, I’d recommend staying in a family-run agriturismo or boutique hotel. These places aren’t just about accommodation—they’re about connection.
You will always remember waking up to homemade breakfasts and chatting with the owners about their favorite local spots. You won’t get that kind of insight from a big chain hotel.
Food, of course, is the heart of Italy. I’ve learned that the most memorable meals aren’t found in touristy restaurants but in the little places frequented by locals.
On one trip, I stumbled across a tiny trattoria tucked away on a side street, and to this day, it’s where I had the best pasta of my life. My advice? Don’t overthink it. If you see a place bustling with locals rather than tourists, that’s usually your sign to go in.
Shopping local in Italy is another way to dive into the culture. Over the years, I’ve picked up items like hand-painted ceramics from a small workshop and olive oil straight from a local producer. These weren’t just souvenirs—they were pieces of the places I visited, each with its own story. If you’re shopping for gifts or keepsakes, look for things that are made locally. It’s a simple way to support artisans and bring home something truly special.
Start Planning Your Next Trip: Traveling to Italy and What to Expect
Since my first venture to Naples, I have been to Italy several more times; exploring Sicily, Puglia, Rome, and beyond. Looking back on all my trips to Italy, I’ve realized that how you approach your time there can make all the difference. Before you go, think about what you really want from the experience.
If your goal is to see as many of the major sights as possible, be prepared for a fast-paced, whirlwind trip. I’ve been guilty of this in the past, racing through cities, checking things off my list. Sure, I see the highlights, but I spent a lot of time in transit and less time connecting with the places I was in.
If you’re hoping to really soak in the culture, consider slowing down and focusing on just one region. I’ve found that spending time in a single area not only allows you to see more of its hidden gems but also gives you the chance to connect with locals in a way you can’t when you’re constantly moving. On a recent trip, I spent several days in a small town in Sicily, and it was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had. I didn’t rush, and I got to know the area at a pace that felt right.
What I’ve learned is that Italy rewards curiosity. Whether you’re sipping an espresso at a bustling cafe or wandering through a quiet village, taking the time to embrace the moment is what makes the trip unforgettable.
If the idea of planning feels overwhelming, a curated group trip or a travel designer can be a great option. Traveling in a group is a great way to see Italy for the first time and our carefully curated small group trips are designed to give you a look into different regions and what makes them unique.
For personalized itineraries, our team can design a trip to your specifications and handle all of the logistics so you can focus on enjoying the experience. Our team of travel designers at Life Beyond the Rooms are experts on Italy and they can introduce you to spots you never would have discovered on your own.
Buon viaggio!
About the author: Olivia Helvey
Originally from North Carolina, Olivia developed a love for travel through family adventures early on. She came to Life Beyond the Room as a client and later joined the team as a marketer and content writer. She believes that travel is the best when you are able to develop a deep connection to the people and place that you are visiting. She currently lives in Illinois with her partner and 100 houseplants.
