Italy trips

While it may feel awkward at first, attempting the local language goes a long way when navigating a city and interacting with people. Practice these basic Italian words and phrases to get started:

• Hello: Ciao
• Goodbye: Ciao
• Thank you: Grazie
• Yes: Sì
• No: No
• Where is...?: Dove si trova...?
• I need...: Ho bisogno...
• Cheers!: Saluti!

Italians are warm, inviting people that are very proud of their culture that is world-renowned for its arts and cuisine. And learning some these little quirks, as well as some general European ones, can help you embrace it to the fullest.

• Fare bella figura: This phrase meaning “to make a good impression” is a way of life adopted by many Italians. It’s not only about dressing well, but also about graceful interactions and good manners.
• Italians tend to be very expressive when they speak, both in tone and hand gestures.
• Meals are not hurried, as people like to take their time appreciating the food and sharing conversation. This also means that you’ll have to request your bill in most restaurants.
• Public restrooms in Europe sometimes require a small fee—hold on to your coins!
• Unlike the U.S., everything (hotels, meals, appliances) is smaller. After all, less is more!
• Water is an added cost at restaurants, and you have to choose between still or sparkling.
• Smoking is still rather popular in Italy. Don’t be surprised to see large amounts of locals with lit cigarettes!

You’ll sample a variety of local dishes on your trip, but read on for tips, tricks, and delicacies you just must try.

• Breakfast: Italians usually have a sweet pastry and cappuccino instead of the savory continental breakfast you’re used to. Try a chocolate croissant!
• Coffee: Iced coffee begone, espresso is your new friend and you’ll never find a bad espresso in Italy. Make sure to order and pay for your espresso at the bar to avoid paying more than the usual 1-2€!
• Aperitivo: This is a light meal between lunch and dinner with snacks and wine, or a refreshing spritz like aperol or campari
• Late dinners: Dinner doesn’t often begin until after 8 or 9pm. More reason to enjoy aperitivo!
• Digestif: Try an after-dinner digestive liquor like limoncello, sambuca, amari, or apertivi
• Cacio e pepe: A simple yet delicious pasta dish with black pepper, pecorino Romano cheese, and pasta. They say all Italian meals only require 3 ingredients!
• Roman artichokes: One of the most famous dishes of Roman cuisine, the artichokes are braised in water, white wine, garlic, salt, pepper, and oil.
• Florentine steak: A specific cut of the meat from Tuscan cattle, and it is an excellent choice if you’re feeling #fancy in #Florence
• Pizza: Need we say more?
• Arancini: These Sicilian fried rice balls are traditionally filled with meat and peas, but you'll likely find a number of different variations to sample.
• Cannoli: You may have had some cannolis in your life, but here's your chance to have these fried pastry shells filled with ricotta in the land of their birth: Sicily.

From ancient ruins to glittering coastlines, Italy is a dream for art lovers, foodies, and anyone chasing la dolce vita.

• Rome: The Eternal City lives up to its name. Explore the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican City, then toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain for good luck.
• Florence: Birthplace of the Renaissance and home to Michelangelo’s David and the Uffizi Gallery. Don’t miss a sunset stroll across the Ponte Vecchio.
• Venice: A city built on water and pure magic. Ride a gondola through its famous canals, wander St. Mark’s Square, and get lost (literally) in its maze of streets.
• Amalfi Coast: Picture-perfect villages like Positano and Amalfi tumble down cliffs toward turquoise seas—ideal for scenic drives or lazy beach days.
• Sicily: The island at Italy’s southern tip offers volcanic hikes on Mount Etna and some of the best food in the country—think arancini, cannoli, and fresh seafood.
• Milan: Fashion, design, and The Last Supper. Italy’s most modern city still carries centuries of cultural charm.

Italy’s culture is all about passion—passion for food, art, beauty, and living well.

• La Famiglia: Family comes first. Meals are often shared affairs that bring generations together over good wine and better conversation.
• Art & Architecture: From the Colosseum to the Sistine Chapel, Italy is basically one giant open-air museum. Even small towns hide centuries-old masterpieces.
• Style & Expression: Italians take pride in how they present themselves. Expect bold hand gestures, animated conversations, and perfectly tailored outfits.
• Festivals: Each region has its own traditions, from Venice’s Carnival to Siena’s Palio horse race. No matter where you go, there’s always a celebration around the corner.
• Pace of Life: Italians savor the moment. Meals, coffee breaks, and daily life are enjoyed slowly—it’s all about quality over quantity.

Italy is beautiful year-round, but your experience depends on what you’re looking for.

• Spring (April–June): One of the best times to visit. Expect mild weather, blooming countryside, and fewer crowds at top attractions.
• Summer (July–August): Warm days, lively festivals, and beach season in full swing. Just be prepared for heat—and tourists—in popular spots like Rome and Venice.
• Fall (September–October): Cooler temps and harvest season make this a foodie’s dream, especially in Tuscany and Naples.
• Winter (November–March): Perfect for exploring museums without the crowds or hitting the slopes in northern Italy. Cities like Rome and Florence stay lively, just cozier.

Whether you’re sipping espresso in a piazza or cruising the Amalfi Coast, Italy offers timeless beauty and unforgettable experiences every season.