Exploring the Rich Culture and History of Italy
Italy dips down out of Europe and into the Mediterranean like a sleek stiletto, so it’s hardly surprising its citizens are known for impeccable style and fashion. Once containing the great Roman Empire that stretched across the globe, it now boasts some of the most spectacular architecture, frescoes, sculptures and Renaissance paintings in all of Europe.
More than 3,000 years of history are spread across landscapes ranging from quiet, pastoral hillside olive farms and seaside fishing villages to the Armani-wearing, scooter-driving and espresso-drinking buzz of the big cities. Italy is also has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other country on earth, with an incredible 54 places of global historical significance dotted around the country.
The country’s cities reveal awe-inspiring architecture, from the curved arches of the Ponte Vecchio in Florence to the crumbling magnificence of the Colosseum in Rome. Home of da Vinci, Michelangelo, Caravaggio and Botticelli, its artworks are a visual feast.
Nestled into the outskirts of Rome is the independent Vatican City, seat of the Pope and the location of the famous St Peter’s Basilica and Sistine Chapel. The influence of the Holy Catholic Church on the people of Italy is still evident today, with holy festivals, carnivals, and parades in almost every city, town and village.
From the twisting canals of Venice to the beaches of the Riviera, and the rocky crags of the Alps to the slopes of the Dolomites and Apennines, Italy offers unique experiences to every kind of tourist.
Key Facts
- Language:
- The official language of Italy is Italian. English is understood in the larger cities but not in the more remote parts of the country.
- Passport/Visa:
The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries. All foreign passengers to Italy must also hold visible proof of financial means to support themselves while in the country, return or onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. Visitors may be refused entry, either for public security, tranquillity, order or health reasons. Extensions of stay in Italy are possible by applying to local authorities. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passport have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
The euro (EUR) is the official currency, which is divided into 100 cents. Those arriving in Italy with foreign currency can obtain euros through any bank, ATM or bureau de change. ATMs are widespread; credit cards are accepted in upmarket establishments and shops around the cities. Banks are closed on weekends but tend to have better rates than foreign exchange houses.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current in Italy is 230 volts, 50Hz. A variety of plugs are in use, including the European-style two-pin plug.
Overview
Littered with more than 3,000 years of history, Italy is a sightseer’s paradise. Visitors can spend some time in Rome taking in famous sites such as the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps, as well as the Pantheon. With artworks on display from the likes of Da Vinci, Caravaggio and Botticelli, it’s a visual buffet of the highest order.
Those who head north can indulge in the wonderful shopping in the fashion capital of Milan. A little further south is the magical city of Florence, which teems with culture and Italian flair. Continuing south past Rome, Naples is graced with the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, both of which were destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. The active volcano can be seen standing sentinel over the city.
Italy takes a lifetime to explore properly because there is so much on offer for visitors. From the gondola-lined canals of Venice and the white sandy beaches of San Remo to the iconic Alps, Dolomites and Apennines, Italy has everything from beach holidays to luxury mountain ski resorts and a whole lot more in between.
The most popular time of year to visit Italy is during the summer months when most of the country can be enjoyed slowly like a fine Italian vintage. A trip to the rolling hills of Tuscany is a must to sample some fine wine and olive oil, as well as plenty of old Italian cuisine, while taking in the scenery of cypress trees, lush vines and olive groves. The more adventurous travellers can head to the Italian Alps and visit the resorts of Courmayer and Brevil Cervinia for some world-class skiing.
Climate in Italy
Italy has a largely temperate climate with regional variations. In summer, the northern parts of Italy are warm with occasional rainfall, the central region is somewhat stifled by humidity and the south scorches under the dry heat. In winter, conditions in Milan, Turin and Venice are dominated by cold, damp and fog and Tuscany’s winter temperatures approach freezing, while temperatures in the south of the country are more favourable, averaging 50 to 60F (10 to 20C). Most people visit Italy in the summer months between June and August; but the best and cheapest time to visit is in spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is good and there are fewer tourists. The sea is warm enough for swimming between June and September. Visitors should note that most Italians take their vacation in August and many shops and restaurants are closed during this period. It also means that during August the coastal resorts are crowded with locals. The ski season runs between December and April and the best time to walk in the Alps is between June and September. The best time to visit Italy will vary depending on region and desired activities.
Health Notes when travelling to Italy
There are no specific health risks associated with travel to Italy and visitors should be able to travel without special vaccinations and medications. Medical facilities in Italy are good but travel insurance is still recommended for non-EU citizens, as medical attention can be expensive. EU citizens can make use of Italy’s health services provided they have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), with UK citizens using their Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). The GHIC replaced the EHIC for UK citizens and allows UK citizens access to state healthcare during visits to the EU. The GHIC is not valid in Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland, nor is it an alternative to travel insurance. Although it should be possible to get most medication in Italy, travel authorities always suggest taking any prescribed medication in its original packaging with a signed and dated letter from a doctor.
Safety Notes when travelling to Italy
Tourists are vulnerable to pickpocketing in the bigger cities, particularly on public transport, in crowded areas and around tourist sites. It’s advisable to be careful when carrying large amounts of cash and valuables. Travellers should be particularly careful around Termini, which is the main train station in Rome. Visitors should be wary of groups of children, some of whom will distract attention while the others try to steal what they can. Strikes by transport workers take place regularly throughout Italy and delays are possible.
Customs in Italy
In Italy, it’s an offence to sit on steps and in courtyards near public buildings, including the main churches in Florence; eating and drinking in the vicinity should also be avoided. Shorts, vests or any other immodest clothing should not be worn inside churches.
Duty Free in Italy
Travellers over 17 years from non-EU countries do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco. Nor do they have to pay duty on 4 litres of wine, 16 lires of beer or 1 litre of spirits over 22 percent volume, or 2 litres of alcoholic beverages less than 22 percent volume. Other goods up to the value of €430 are also permitted (reduced to €175 for children under 15).
Travellers from EU countries travelling within the EU are limited to 110 litres of beer, 90 litres of wine, 10 litres of fortified wine, 10 litres of spirits and 1kg of tobacco, 800 cigarettes, 200 cigars or 400 cigarellos. Prohibited items include narcotic drugs, medicinal products, arms and weapons, explosives and protected animal and plant species.
Doing Business in Italy
Italians can be very formal and old fashioned, but are also warm and welcoming. Face to face communication is best and often a third party introduction can speed initial negotiations. Business attire is formal and stylish, and handshakes are the norm, with first impressions counting a lot in Italy. Business cards are used. Visiting business people should also expect plenty of gesticulating, interruptions or people talking over each other. Unfortunately the bureaucracy in Italy can slow down deal-making. Business hours are usually 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, but can vary according to season and region.
Communication in Italy
The international access code for Italy is +39. Hotels, cafes and restaurants offering free WiFi are widely available; as international roaming costs can be high, purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option.
Tipping in Italy
Tipping is customary in Italy and 10 to 15 percent of the bill is acceptable in restaurants, unless a 15 percent service charge has already been added to the bill. Hotels add a service charge of 15 to 18 percent, but it is customary to tip the service staff extra. Italians rarely tip taxi drivers but a 5 to 10 percent tip is always appreciated.
Passport/Visa Note
The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries. All foreign passengers to Italy must also hold visible proof of financial means to support themselves while in the country, return or onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. Visitors may be refused entry, either for public security, tranquillity, order or health reasons. Extensions of stay in Italy are possible by applying to local authorities. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passport have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay in Italy. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay in Italy. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay in Italy. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond their intended stay in Italy. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Italy. No visa is required.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand citizens must have a passports valid for three months beyond period of intended stay in Italy. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond their intended stay, and a valid Schengen visa, to enter Italy.
Tourist Offices
http://www.enit.it
Italy Embassies
- In the United States:
Italian Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 612 4400.
- In Canada:
Italian Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 232 2401.
- In the United Kingdom:
Italian Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7312 2200.
- In Australia:
Italian Embassy, Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6273 3333.
- In Ireland:
Italian Embassy, Dublin, Ireland: +353 (0)1 660 1744.
- In New Zealand:
Italian Embassy, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 (0)4 473 5339.
- In South Africa:
Italian Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 423 000.
Foreign Embassies in Italy
- American Embassy
United States Embassy, Rome: +39 06 46741.
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian Embassy, Rome: +39 06 85444 2911.
- British Embassy
British Embassy, Rome: +39 06 4220 0001/ 4220.
- Australian Embassy
Australian Embassy, Rome: +39 06 852 721.
- Irish Embassy
Irish Embassy, Rome: +39 06 585 2381.
- New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand Embassy, Rome: +39 06 853 7501.
- South African Embassy
South African Embassy, Rome: +39 06 852 541.
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
