Traveling in Italy
Venice, Italy
Romantic Italy is a destination that many people dream of visiting. It's rich in culture and beauty, and it's one of those places that truly lives up to the hype. Vineyards cloak the rolling hills in Tuscany, and in the far north beautiful lakes are surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Alps. You can wander through the ancient ruins in Rome or get lost in the canals of Venice. Stunning coastal villages cling precariously to the rocky coastline. You can get lost in the towns around Cinque Terre or head further south to the Amalfi Coast. This country can easily be explored as a highlights tour, but if time allows, get of the beaten path. Many people hit the major sights like Rome, Florence and Venice, but to truly experience all that this area has to offer you must see the countryside, the coastline, and the small villages. Spend some time leisurely lingering in Tuscany. See a whole different side of the country in Sicily. Chat with the locals, but most importantly dine leisurely on pasta and sip wine by the vineyards. Italy really can surpass expectations, even though those expectations have often been set high.
Because of the area's high popularity, travel costs can be high. It's possible to find cheaper meal options and if you're on a particularly tight budget, order your food to go. Most restaurants charge a sitting fee if you dine inside. Hotels are usually of high quality but the rooms are smaller than you might expect if you're used to traveling in the United States. Choose a hotel based on location, not size, and you won't be disappointed. Traveling in the off season or shoulder season can also save you lots of money. This will also help you avoid the crowds which can be overwhelming during the summer months. If you can visit the area during the fall or spring, then this is ideal, as the weather is pleasant, the crowds are less, and prices remain low. Winter can be cold, but is also a fun time to visit. Traveling to Italy during the winter months helps you see a whole different side to this normally touristy country.
At A Glance
- Train travel can be expensive in Italy. Costs are generally comparable to what you will find elsewhere in Europe. You'll usually get the best prices if you book your tickets in advance. There are discount passes available, but these passes usually come with limitations and requirements, so they are rarely worth the deal.
- Southern Italy is less expensive than northern Italy. It's also less touristy. If you're looking to save some money and get off the beaten path, head to the south where your money will go farther and you'll see a whole different side to the country.
- You'll save money on food if you have a filling lunch in a restaurant and then prepare a picnic for dinner. There are many great markets where you can pick up Italian cheeses and breads as well as regional wine for a good price. Even if you don't have access to a kitchen, you can turn these items into and excellent meal.
- Most people visit Florence, Rome and Venice during their trip to Italy. Pick at least one small town to visit that is off the beaten path. Spend a day or two exploring its streets and neighborhoods and you'll leave with a whole new perspective on this country.
- Avoid doing a tour. Italy is easily visited independently. Transportation is excellent and the tourist infrastructure is well established. There is really no need to visit this country as part of a package tour.
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Top Tourist Attractions
The Amalfi Coast: The Amalfi Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline on the Sorrentine Peninsula. It is popular with tourists for its dramatic cliffs, historic towns, and picturesque vineyards. It's a popular stop off for cruises, but if you're traveling on your own you can easily explore the towns in more depth.
Venetian Canals: The canals in Venice are idolized around the world. There have been several attempts to replicate them, but nothing can recreate the atmosphere of wandering the streets and canals in the city of Venice. Take a gondola ride for the full experience.
Cinque Terre: This is a rugged piece of coastline that is known as the "Five Lands." Along the water's edge you will find five villages are strategically positioned along a walking trail that is lined with vineyards. Most villages do not allow cars, so the towns feel as if you've stepped back in time to a forgotten world.
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having a realistic perspective on your travel budget is very important. While many like to think of themselves as "budget" travelers, most people are not prepared for the discomfort and lack of amenities that come with traveling on a shoestring budget. Consider what you really love about travel and thinkg about your previous travel experiences. Are you more inclined to stay in hostels, or do you prefer more comfortable hotels, resorts, or vacation rentals? Is dining out a priority for you? Do you want to visit the major sights and attractions? Your answers to these questions will shape your overall travel budget significantly.
What Defines a Budget Traveler?
Many people hear that you can visit Italy for $93 per day, but unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a significant amount more.
Backpackers can often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
Luckily, Italy boasts a wide range of hostels. The highest concentration can be found in Rome, Milan, and Florence. A variety of destinations have well-developed public transit systems that help budget travelers avoid expensive taxi or Uber rides. Food is a highlight for all types of visitors to Italy, but budget travelers often dine on street food or cook meals in their hostel, so they may not always experience this aspect of the country.
Is Your Travel Style Average?
If you're a couple or a family traveling for fun, you'll likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at popular restaurants, and visit the major museums and attractions which have entry fees. You won't want to miss Hiking Trails in Cinque Terre, Pizza Making Classes in Naples, or the Florence Duomo in Florence. Most activities cost money, after all. Therefore, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be closer to $235 per person, per day.
Italy has tons of hotels and vacation rentals available. If you're traveling with a group or family, sharing accommodations with a partner, friend, or your family will cut back on the daily per-person budget. Popular family-friendly destinations like Lake Garda and Rome offer hotels and restaurants that cater specifically to kids. For a family-friendly stay, consider La Palazzetta Del Vescovo in Fratta Todina or Ischia Blu Resort in Ischia. For couples visiting Rodeneck, check out Hotel Schonblick Rodeneck for a romantic place to stay. You can discover more family and couples options in our hotel guide for Italy here.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
If your dream trip includes all the bells and whistles, be ready for a cost of about $587 per day. Opting for upscale hotels, fine dining at renowned eateries, splurging on unique experiences, and having private drivers will place you in the luxury travel range. You can rub shoulders with other luxury travelers in places like Venice and Portofino. Or you could plan an multi-day adventure by booking a higher end tour such as 6-Day Pompeii, Amalfi Coast and Irresistible Italy Small-Group Tour from Rome - offered by Rabbie’s Small Group Tours.
There's a reason everyone loves Italy! There are so many great restaurants that aren't expensive. The local hotels are cheaper than the major chains. We spend so much time just wandering and soaking up the cities.