Italy Travel Guide: What to Do

What to do in Italy? Main activities and attractions

Italy offers a remarkable concentration of cultural heritage sites. Rome alone hosts landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Vatican Museums. Florence is an open-air Renaissance museum featuring the Uffizi Gallery and Brunelleschi’s Duomo. In Venice, the canals, Saint Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace encapsulate centuries of influence. Milan, the fashion capital, also houses the famous Last Supper painting by Leonardo da Vinci. Naples provides a gateway to Pompeii and Herculaneum, offering a glimpse into ancient daily life.

Nature and food are central to travel in Italy. The Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, and Lake Como are ideal for scenic hikes and relaxation. The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provide opportunities for skiing and climbing. Italian cuisine is a journey in itself—try truffle specialities in Piedmont, fresh seafood in Sicily, or handmade pasta in Bologna. Wine tasting in Tuscany and olive oil sampling in Puglia are also essential experiences. Each region offers unique dishes, often rooted in centuries-old traditions.

Unusual and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Italy

While Italy’s major cities attract most tourists, venturing beyond them reveals a treasure trove of lesser-known experiences. These alternatives offer deeper cultural immersion and fewer crowds, providing a distinct perspective on the Italian way of life.

The ghost town of Craco in Basilicata is an abandoned medieval hilltop village with a haunting charm, often used as a film set. Guided visits explore empty stone buildings and panoramic viewpoints. In northern Italy, the Sacri Monti (Sacred Mountains) of Piedmont and Lombardy are serene pilgrimage sites blending spirituality, art, and nature along forested trails.

In Emilia-Romagna, the “Food Valley” towns like Parma and Modena offer factory tours of cheese producers and balsamic vinegar aging cellars. Visitors can enjoy tastings directly from the source. Southern Sardinia reveals a different Italy, with experiences such as exploring the ancient stone towers of the Nuragic civilization or joining local shepherds on a transhumance route.

Alternatively, spend a night at an “albergo diffuso,” or scattered hotel, in a restored village like Santo Stefano di Sessanio in Abruzzo. This model supports sustainable tourism while offering authentic local contact. Diving in Baia’s underwater Roman city near Naples provides a surreal journey into submerged history and ancient mosaics resting beneath the sea.

Choosing these routes enhances connection to local communities and history. By straying off the common path, travelers access authentic experiences that illuminate Italy’s rich and varied identity.

When to visit Italy? Best travel periods

Essential practical information for traveling to Italy

📋 Formalities and visa

EU citizens don’t need a visa for stays under 90 days. US or UK travelers may enter Italy and other Schengen Area countries for tourism or business without a visa for the same duration. A valid passport with at least 3 months of validity beyond the departure date is required. Always check updated regulations before departure.

🚗 Driving rules

In Italy, vehicles drive on the right side of the road. An international driving license is required for non-EU citizens. Speed limits and ZTL (limited traffic zones) are strictly enforced in cities. Fines for driving violations are substantial and can be issued by camera. Be cautious in rural roads and mountain areas, where roads may be narrow.

🔌 Electricity

Italy uses 230V voltage and 50Hz frequency. Plugs are type C, F and L. Travelers from the UK or US will need adaptors, especially for devices like phone chargers or hairdryers.

📱 Mobile network and internet

Italy has broad 4G/5G coverage in most regions. Leading operators include TIM, Vodafone Italia, and WindTre. Buying a prepaid SIM card is easy and available at airports or newsstands. Data costs range from €10 to €30 per month.

⚠️ Safety and areas to avoid

Italy is generally safe for tourists. Beware of pickpocketing in crowded places like Rome’s Termini Station or Milan’s Duomo area. Emergency numbers: 112 for police, 118 for medical assistance. In some southern regions, avoid isolated areas at night.

🚫 Prohibitions and regulations

Smoking is prohibited in indoor public spaces. Fines apply for littering and graffiti. It is illegal to take sand or stones from beaches. Respect historic sites: touching artworks, climbing statues or fountains is forbidden and monitored by authorities.

🤝 Cultural codes and behavior

Politeness is valued: use “Buongiorno” and “Grazie” regularly. Dress modestly when visiting churches—shoulders and knees should be covered. Avoid loud behavior in public areas, especially during siesta hours in smaller towns. Punctuality is appreciated in business but more relaxed socially.

🕌 Respect for religious traditions

Italy is predominantly Catholic, and churches are active worship sites. Silence and respectful attire are expected. Avoid visiting during services unless attending. During major events like Easter or Assumption Day, expect closures and processions.

Sources: Foreign Office, Embassy in Italy, Italy National Tourism Office. Last updated: January 2025