Yes, starting in 2025 the EU will require visitors to fill out an ETIAS European Travel Information and Authorization System form. Please visit https://etias.com/etias-application for more information.
Florence has its own airport, however there are no direct flights from the US. If you prefer a direct flight, Milan is the closest airport that offers direct flights from the US. Rome is another great option as it has many direct flight options, although it is a bit further from Florence. Coming from Milan or Rome, you could take a train directly into Florence.
Your passport! A passport must be valid for at least 6 months post travel. Make sure your passport doesn't expire until at least 6 months from when you plan to fly back home. Be sure to pack an EU Outlet Converter as they differ from US Outlets.
Water is not free at restaurants. Very few restaurants may offer you tap water but typically they will ask "still" or "sparkling" and provide a bottle for the table. In Italian, they will ask "naturale" (still) or "frizzante" (sparkling). If you don't plan on getting a data plan or eSim card, make sure your phone is set on airplane mode & data turned off to avoid any roaming fees. Most places will have WiFi to use. A great way to make calls while abroad is via using WhatsApp. If you want to go shopping in Italy & most places in Europe, if you spend over 70€ on one receipt you are entitled to submitting a VAT tax refund. Ask the store about the VAT.
Yes, however, Uber is more expensive than taxis. We suggest using the Taxi Move app for lower rates.
Yes, there will be transportation to/from a centralized location in Florence to Villa il Garofalo.
Ciao! - Hello Grazie (Mille) - Thank you (so much)! Prego - You're Welcome Per favore - Please Szuci - Excuse me Buongiorno - Good morning Buonasera - Good evening Buonanotte - Goodnight Molto bene - Very good Mi dispiace - I'm sorry Parla Inglese - Do you speak English? Quanto Costa? - How much is it? Dov'e il bagno? - Where is the bathroom?
Villa il Garofalo is about a 15-minute drive from central Florence. Located high above the city, you will be able to see panoramic views of Florence.
Yes! We will be hosting a Welcome Pizza Party on August 18th, 2025, at 6 PM at Citrarium di Villa la Fontanelle in Fiesole. Join us for dinner, drinks, and a chance to mingle with everyone before the big day. We’ll also be providing welcome bags at the party, so be sure to come by! If you are unable to attend, no worries! This is optional and a great way to kick off our wedding!