Traveling to Italy with EF Ultimate Break
Italy’s timeless appeal
- Cultural powerhouse: From the Colosseum to the canals of Venice, Italy is home to more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other country—history buffs and culture lovers, this one’s for you.
- Foodie paradise: Fresh pasta, wood-fired pizza, gelato on every corner, and wine regions that have perfected their craft over centuries. Italy doesn’t just feed you—it transforms you.
- Instagram gold: Rolling Tuscan hills, colorful Cinque Terre villages, and Rome’s ancient ruins create the kind of backdrops that make your camera roll look like a Renaissance painting.
- Diverse experiences: Whether you’re island hopping in Sicily, exploring art in Florence, or dancing until dawn in Milan, Italy offers something for every type of traveler.
- Year-round magic: Summer brings beach season and festivals, but spring and fall offer perfect weather, fewer crowds, and authentic local experiences.
Language
Italian is the official language of Italy, spoken by over 60 million people. It’s a Romance language with roots in Latin, known for its musicality and expressiveness. While English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and major cities, learning a few Italian phrases shows respect and often leads to warmer interactions with locals.
Currency & tipping culture
Italy uses the Euro (€), and understanding local payment customs will help you navigate transactions smoothly. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but cash is still king in smaller towns, markets, and family-run establishments.
- Italy uses the Euro (€).
- Banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500. Coins: €0.01 to €2.
- Credit cards accepted in most restaurants and shops, but carry cash for small purchases.
- ATMs are common—watch for withdrawal fees from your bank.
Tipping guidelines:
- Restaurants: Service charge (coperto) often included; round up or leave 5–10% for exceptional service.
- Cafes & bars: Small change or round up; not expected for counter service.
- Taxis: Round up to nearest euro or add €1–2.
- Hotels: €1–2 per bag for porters; €2–5 per day for housekeeping.
- Local tour guides: €5–10 per person for group tours.
Transportation
Getting around Italy is straightforward thanks to an extensive train network, efficient public transport in cities, and well-connected airports. High-speed trains make traveling between major cities quick and comfortable, while local buses and metros help you navigate urban areas.
Trenitalia and Italo offer high-speed connections between major cities. Book in advance for better prices. Regional trains connect smaller towns.
Cities like Rome, Milan, and Naples have metro systems. Buy tickets before boarding and validate them.
Taxis are metered but can be expensive. Apps like FreeNow work in major cities. Always confirm the fare beforehand.
Great for exploring Tuscany, Amalfi Coast, or rural areas. International driving permit required. City driving and parking can be challenging.
Connect mainland Italy to islands like Sicily, Sardinia, and Capri. Book ahead in summer.
Italy’s iconic destinations
We could go on and on about the best cities and villages in Italy. And we will, right now.
Can’t-miss Italian experiences
Toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain
Join the tradition of tossing a coin over your shoulder into Rome’s most famous fountain. Legend says it guarantees your return to the Eternal City—and honestly, after one visit, you’ll want to come back anyway.
Explore Florence’s wine windows
Discover the buchette del vino, tiny windows that served wine during the plague and are now serving up history (and excellent Tuscan wine) to curious travelers. It's the OG contactless delivery system.
Cruise the Amalfi Coast
Wind along dramatic cliffside roads with views of pastel villages tumbling down to turquoise waters. Stop in Positano for beach time, Ravello for gardens, and anywhere for limoncello.
Wander through the Colosseum
Step into the arena where gladiators once fought and imagine the roar of 50,000 spectators. The Colosseum isn’t just a monument—it’s a portal to ancient Rome's most dramatic moments.
Get lost in Venice’s canals
Ditch the map and wander through narrow alleyways, over arched bridges, and past hidden courtyards. The best parts of Venice reveal themselves when you're not looking for them.
Cinque Terre’s coastal trail
Connect five colorful fishing villages on foot, with the Mediterranean sparkling below and vineyards terracing the hillsides above. Each village has its own personality—find your favorite.
Indulge in a cooking class
Learn to make fresh pasta from a nonna in Tuscany or perfect your pizza dough in Naples. You’ll leave with skills, recipes, and a new favorite food.
What’s the weather like in Italy?
April–June
Mild temperatures (60–75°), blooming landscapes, and manageable crowds make this ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Easter celebrations add cultural richness, especially in Rome and Florence.
July–August
Hot weather (75–95°) perfect for beaches and coastal towns. Expect busy tourist sites, higher prices, and vibrant nightlife. Many locals vacation in August, so some businesses close—but beach towns come alive.
September–October
Warm days (65–80°), harvest season in wine regions, and fewer tourists. Fall festivals, truffle season, and comfortable weather make this a favorite for experiencing authentic Italy.
November–March
Lower accommodation costs (up to 40% off), minimal crowds at major attractions, and rich cultural experiences. Cooler temperatures (40–60°) and occasional rain. Winter brings Christmas markets, ski season in the Alps, and Carnevale in Venice.
When is the cheapest time to visit Italy?
If you’re looking to experience Italy without the peak‑season crowds or peak‑season prices, you're in luck—Italy has a generous "sweet spot" for budget-friendly travel. Here’s when EF Ultimate Break travelers get the best deals:
What to eat in Italy?
More than just pizza and pasta (though you’ll eat plenty of both)—satisfy your appetite with these Italian essentials.
Safety in Italy
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Italy is generally very safe for travelers, with millions visiting each year to explore its cities, countryside, and coastlines without incident. Violent crime is extremely rare in tourist areas, and Italians are known for their warm hospitality and helpfulness toward visitors.
Like any popular destination, petty theft can happen in crowded areas—pickpockets target busy metro stations, tourist attractions, and outdoor markets. Keep your belongings secure, stay aware in crowds, and avoid displaying expensive items. Scams targeting tourists exist (overpriced taxis, restaurant tourist menus), but they're easy to avoid with a little awareness.
Trust your instincts, stay alert in busy areas, and you’ll have a safe and incredible experience exploring everything Italy has to offer.
Your safety is our top priority
Traveling with EF Ultimate Break means you’re not exploring Italy alone—you’ve got a full support system making sure you feel comfortable, informed, and protected every step of the way.
Traveler photos from Italy
Italy travel reviews
Our travelers love visiting Italy, and they aren’t afraid to tell us.
