Italy is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. It charms tourists with breathtaking architecture, irresistible food, enticing art, and picturesque landscapes. In fact, this dream destination has endless possibilities that are exquisite and interesting. Italy is warm and welcoming that can make every holiday memorable. However, planning a trip especially for the first time takes lot of effort. Tour Italy Now is here to help you with everything so that you can get the best out of your Italian vacation.
Things to see around Italy
There is a lot to see in Italy but if you are running short of time, consider exploring Rome, Venice, and Florence. These cities are packed with attractions that can fill in your travel itineraries. Rome boasts of the historic ruins, Venice is known for its enchanting waterways and Florence flaunts absolutely alluring art galleries.
If you want to experience Italy beyond the popular sites, visit the enchanting islands of Sicily, Capri, and Sardinia. The idyllic coastline accompanied by the azure water and fantastic sights is something worth admiring. Even the lakes are pristine and enduring that is hard to miss. They offer a tranquil spot to relax and unwind. If you are a lover of wine, a visit to the legendary wine regions is a must. Piedmont, Lombardy, Tuscany, and Umbria produce some of the finest Italian wines that are popular across the globe.
Getting Around Italy
Our guided tours take care of all your transportation. We have a private bus that takes guests from one place to another. If you opt for a private escorted tour, a driver will be there at your disposal. But if you are on your own there are alternate options that you can choose from.
Most of the prominent cities have an airport where you can easily fly into. There are also ground transportation options such as bus and train, so you can also choose between one of them. Italian trains are fast, affordable and efficient. Remember, the farther ahead you book, the more reasonable is the fare. There are two services to choose from – Trenitalia and Italo. Eurostar trains are the most reliable options when you are traveling between two major cities. Regional and InterCity trains are slightly slower and make more stops. So, it is better to avoid these options. Make sure to validate the tickets at the nearest machine before boarding the train.
Renting a car is the most reliable option when you are exploring the lesser-known destinations that are not accessible by train. If you are looking for a resting spot, there is no better place than the Autogrill located along the Autostrade. Autogrills are a unique combination of gas stations, restrooms, and cafes where visitors can relax while traveling on road. A part of the Autogrill is also a convenience store that offers olive oil, wine, pasta and more. While driving on the smaller roads, it is advisable to rely on paper maps and GPS because the road signs are often confusing and non-existent.
Best Time to Visit
‘When to plan an Italian vacation’ is often regarded as one of the major decisions. But it is important to remember that each of the seasons has its own unique charm. Spring (April to June) is often considered the best time to visit Italy. Pleasant weather, moderate temperature, lower rates, and fewer crowds are the norm of this season. Summer (July and August) is often regarded as the busiest time of the year. All the popular attractions are crowded but it is the perfect season to soak up the bright sunshine, golden beaches, and the iconic festivals.
Many of the tourists also prefer visiting Italy during autumn (September to November). The scorching summer is finally gone and it feels great to wander around the city streets. The changing hues of the atmosphere getting ready for fall are a sight to behold and deserve a lot of admiration. Winters (December to February) in Italy looks like the stuff of dream. The country turns into a snow paradise and skiing in the majestic mountains is everyone’s favorite activity. Besides fewer tourists, there are off-season discounts available. Kindly note, a number of attractions remains closed during the winter.
Where to stay
If you book with us, we guarantee the best rates and services in some of the finest hotels. But if you want, you can also book on your own. Luckily, Italy has countless accommodation options ranging from intimate rooms to luxurious suites. There are hotels with room service as well as guest houses with bed and breakfast options. Look around for Agriturismo, one of the most unique places to stay in Italy. It is a farmhouse that has retained its traditional charm. For an unusual experience, you can also opt for caves and monastery stays.
Travel Documents
A valid passport is a must when you are planning a trip around Italy. According to the U.S Department of State, U.S citizens can stay in Italy for around 90 days without a visa. However, it is important that the passport is valid for a minimum of 3 months beyond the period of stay.
Useful Travel Tips
For exploring the top sites, it is essential to buy the tickets online if you want to avoid long queues
Make sure to validate the train ticket before boarding
Do not carry excess cash in your wallet
Keep your passport in such a place that is out of a pick-pocket’s reach
Dress modestly while visiting sacred landmarks
Carry a pair of sunglass, sunscreen and a hat for exploring the beaches
English is widely spoken in the main tourist centers but it is necessary to carry a guidebook or learn a few words while traveling to the rural areas
Latte means milk in Italy. Hence, if you are visiting the less touristy areas, you may end up ordering a glass of milk
Pack light because some of the accommodations and train stations do not have elevators. You have to lift your luggage all by yourself
Trusting the GPS is not always the right thing especially in smaller towns and villages. Carry a paper map to make sure which places you would like to cover
Plan Your Dream Vacation to Italy Today! Talk to a travel expert to get started.