First Time in Italy? Here Are Some Tips on How to Fully Enjoy Your Vacation

Italy is a country that has, in many ways, shaped world history. Without Rome, who knows where we would be today?  If you are intending on visiting, then there is a lot more for you to do than just browse Roman ruins however, there is also a rich culinary scene, beautiful classical architecture, and incredible outdoor spaces.

If it’s your first time going there, then you are no doubt a little confused, and not quite sure what you should see first. Don’t worry though, this post’s got you covered. Here is how you can make the most out of your vacation:

Historical Sites

Italy has some incredible historical sites,  like the Colosseum in Rome. If you do plan on visiting, then Rome is one of the best places to go to, because of its abundance of ancient structures and monuments. You can explore the highlights of Rome with the Roma pass, which will give you access to places like the Colosseum and the Roman forum. You may also want to visit the Vatican City, where you can see Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel.  There are many places that you don’t need a pass to see, too. Constantine’s Arch, the Milvio Bridge, and the Trevi Fountain are all free places you can visit. Don’t forget the Spanish Steps, either. There are many other equally as interesting sites spread throughout the country, but Rome is definitely the first place that you should visit if history interests you.

Booking Accommodation

Rome is popular all year round. It’s not really somewhere that experiences a shoulder season, especially now that European budget airlines offer low-cost flights there. If you plan to visit, you should book your accommodation in advance. This is so that you can guarantee there are availabilities at the time that you want to travel. It is also worth noting that by booking early, you may be able to save money. You can book a hotel online, or through a travel agent.

Planning Activities

You should always plan out your activities before you travel. If you wait until you arrive, then there is no way that you will fit everything in. Create a travel itinerary, so you know exactly what each day of your trip holds. It is especially important to create an itinerary if you are going to somewhere like Rome, where there are hundreds of things for you to see. One effective way of seeing everything without creating your own itinerary is to pay a professional company to take you on a tour. That way, they will create the itinerary for you.

Eating Out

Italian food is famous all over the world. What’s the point of visiting Italy if you aren’t going to eat out? A lot of people seem to think that eating out in Italy is expensive, but this is not at all true. Yes, if you go to a restaurant that overlooks the Vatican City, or the Colosseum, then you will have to pay a lot of money. However, if you visit a restaurant in one of the city’s quieter districts, frequented more by locals than tourists, then you will be able to eat for a very reasonable price. Plus, in such places, the food is tastier and more authentic.

Renting Car

When visiting Italy, you have two options: you can take public transport or you can rent a car. If you intend on staying in a large city like Rome, then public transport is a better option. If however, you will be visiting more remote, rural areas, then renting a car is the best option. The reason for this is that despite Italy’s thriving economy, many of the nation’s more rural areas have very bad transport links. Also, it is impossible to drive a car through Rome’s more central districts; there is too much traffic.

Going Hiking

Finally, be sure to explore Italy’s outdoor spaces. A lot of people just visit cities like Rome, without ever going hiking or appreciating what else Italy has to offer. Be sure to do your research and plan out your route if you intend on going hiking so that you don’t get lost. Italy is quite a large country, so it’s not that hard to get lost in its forests or outdoor spaces.  Make sure that you activate your phone’s GPS (and remember to take it with you) just in case you do get lost.

Italy has something for everybody. No matter what you are interested in, you’ll find something that suits you there. However,  it is important to plan out your trip before leaving for the airport. The more planned it is, the more easier it’ll be to unwind and have fun.

Hey there! My name is Wojtek and I am very happy that you came to my travel blog. I've been traveling the world for a few good years now and I still want more.

On my website I describe the adventures that have happened to me, you will also find here a collection of valuable tips for tourists and travelers. If you liked this article, be sure to leave a comment and read some more!