Best Tips for Traveling to Italy

The Best Way To Tour Italy: Region By Region

Italy is a wonderfully diverse country with many different regions full of delightful destinations. There really is something here for every age, interest, and travel style, and our expert travel team will happily help you select the tours that will best suit your needs. From the alpine splendor of the north to the sun-kissed shores of the south, each region offers its own unique flavor of Italian culture.

The rolling hills of Tuscany tell a different story than the dramatic coastline of the Amalfi Coast. In the north, you'll find the fashion capital of Milan and the romantic canals of Venice, while central Italy boasts the Renaissance treasures of Florence and the eternal city of Rome. Journey south to discover Naples' vibrant street life and Sicily's ancient Greek temples. Each region boasts its own distinct cuisine, dialects, and traditions, making a region-by-region approach the perfect way to truly understand Italy's rich cultural tapestry.

Essential Tips for Americans Traveling to Italy

As an American visiting Italy, understanding a few key cultural differences will help you navigate your journey with confidence and avoid common tourist pitfalls.

First, embrace the Italian dining schedule - lunch typically starts at 1:00 PM and dinner rarely before 8:00 PM. Don't expect to find "fettuccine alfredo" or "spaghetti and meatballs" - these are American-Italian creations. Instead, explore authentic regional specialties and remember that cappuccino is strictly a morning drink in Italy. When it comes to tipping, know that service is usually included in your bill, and excessive tipping can actually seem strange to locals.

Dress codes matter more in Italy than in the US, especially when visiting churches - keep shoulders covered and avoid shorts or very casual attire. Americans often expect faster service in restaurants and shops, but in Italy, a slower pace is normal and considered part of the experience - embrace "il dolce far niente" (the sweetness of doing nothing).

Finally, while many Italians in tourist areas speak English, learning basic Italian phrases shows respect and will enhance your experience immensely.

Live Your Unforgettable Italian Adventure

For those who love the arts, of course you know that Italy is an art enthusiast’s dream vacation. In addition to the centuries of great paintings and sculpture you’ll discover here, Italy is also a music lover’s dream vacation destination and boasts a vibrant nightlife in cities such as fabulous Florence or Rome.

History lives here too, in the countryside, hilltop towns, and ancient cities. The possibilities to investigate the past include a visit to the ruins of Ancient Rome or a visit to the ancient ruins of Pompeii, the medieval Ponte Vecchio bridge in Florence, or the a ride in the historic canals and heritage cityscape of Venice.

Everywhere you go you’ll enjoy spectacular scenery and wonderful examples of architecture, but you can also indulge your senses with the regional culinary delights and fine Italian cuisine, perhaps booking one of our many Italy wine and food tours.

And, if you’re traveling with that special someone, Italy is a great romantic destination for couples - or if you’re looking for adventure Italy is the ideal place to satisfy your wanderlust.

Are you ready for an unforgettable Italy trip? Come and experience la bella vita (the good life!) in Italy with Avventure Bellissime. Visit us online now to build your very own Italy vacation packages.