To describe the beauty of Italy’s basilicas, the magnificence of her frescos and the power of her charm would be to fail. But every year, dozens of tourists collapse at the sight of their glory.

Many of Italy’s icons are imprinted on the mind of popular culture. There’s the enormous Colosseum, where Romans once leered at their brutal entertainment. There’s the town of Cinque Terre, with its colourful houses soaring above a Mediterranean coast. And then there’s the Vatican City, with its paintings by Michelangelo and Botticelli. But the Italians know that no replica of these things even comes close the originals. 

Italy travel highlights

Our Italy trips

Tailor-Made trips

Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

Articles on Italy

Italy holiday information

Italy facts

Local culture of Italy

Geography & environment

Shopping guide to Italy

Italy festival calendar

Food & drink in Italy

Further reading

Italy travel FAQs

  • Australia: No - Not required
  • Belgium: No - Not required
  • Canada: No - Not required
  • Germany: No - Not required
  • Ireland: No - Not required
  • Netherlands: No - Not required
  • New Zealand: No - Not required
  • South Africa: Yes - in advance
  • Switzerland: No - Not required
  • UK: No - Not required
  • USA: No - Not required

Tipping is uncommon in Italy. Some restaurants include a surcharge but there’s no need to tip in cases when there isn’t.         

You’ll have good internet access in Italian cities and towns however service may be unreliable in remote places. 

Mobile coverage is good in cities and towns but unreliable in remote places. Remember to activate global roaming with your provider if you wish to use your mobile while traveling. 

Italy has western-style toilets. Many public toilets require a small fee to use. 

  • Cup of coffee = 2 Euro (less if you forego the table and stand up)
  • A glass of beer = 5 Euro 
  • Bottle of wine in a restaurant = 16 Euro
  • Small gelato cone = 3 Euro

Drinking tap water is safe in Italy unless otherwise stated. For environmental reasons, avoid buying bottled water and bring a refillable bottle or canteen with you. 

Credit cards are accepted in hotels, and major shops and restaurants, however you’ll require cash to make purchases from some small businesses. 

Italy has plenty of ATMs in its cities and towns. 

Yes. All Peregrine passengers are required to purchase travel insurance prior to their trip. Your insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day.

For a current list of public holidays in Italy go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/italy/public-holidays

Homosexuality is legal in Italy, however, Italians tend to have reasonably conservative views compared to other European countries. Same-sex marriage is not legal in Italy, and couples should be conservative in regard to open displays of public affection. 

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or Smartraveller before you travel.