FAQs

Question

What are the travel documents needed for Italy?

Answer

A US Passport that is valid a minimum of 3 MONTHS AFTER TRAVEL.

Question

Do I need to know Italian to travel to Italy?

Answer

No. The majority of people in major cities speak some level of English. It's when you get into smaller villages that English is harder to come by. We recommend knowing the basics: hello ("ciao" or "buongiorno"), goodbye ("ciao" or "arrivaderci), thank you ("grazie"), please ("per favore"), and you're welcome ("prego").

Question

Should I exchange my money?

Answer

Yes, if you want to pay for things in cash. You will save money by paying in euros. You can ask for your tab to be converted to dollars, but it will usually be at a higher price than it should be. The current exchange rate is 1 Euro to $1.07. NOTE: DO NOT exchange money at an actual exchange rate place in the airport or train station. You will get MAJORLY screwed over. We recommend taking ALL of your cash out of an ATM and only paying one fee one time.

Question

Can I use my credit card?

Answer

Yes, but make sure you are using a card that does not have foreign transaction fees. You should also notify your bank (usually you can do this within your bank account app) that you will be out of the country so you are not flagged for identity theft.

Question

Can I use my cell phone in Italy?

Answer

Check with your carrier's plan to see if international data is included. Most plans include free texts and limited data in Europe, but calls will usually come at a cost. We recommend using Facebook or WhatsApp to make calls when connected to WiFi (which exists in many places).

Question

Do I leave tips at restaurants?

Answer

Usually, no. Most restaurants include an automatic service charge, which should be noted on your bill. If you do feel like you want to tip, 10% is customary.

Question

How should I dress when traveling in Italy?

Answer

There are no "rules", but if you want to blend in and not look like a total tourist, we recommend dressing well everywhere you go. This means no ripped jeans or Old Navy flip flops. Lean toward quality, light fabrics, classy looks, and bright colors. Men: linen shirts, light button-downs, trousers and trouser shorts, creams, beiges, and navy Ladies: flowy dresses, classy blouses and shorts, wedge shoes or very nice sandals

Question

How much walking will I do?

Answer

It depends on how much you want to see! But definitely plan for a LOT of walking. Sorrento and Positano are walkable cities, and it's the best way to get where you're going. Wear shoes that are classy yet comfortable.

Question

Do I need to worry about pick-pocketing?

Answer

Don't worry about it, but do stay vigilant. Pick-pocketing does happen all across Europe, especially for tourists who seem confused. We recommend cross-body bags and keeping small valuables in front pockets instead of back ones. Be smart, stay in tourist areas, and don't carry more cash than you need.

Question

What are some packing essentials?

Answer

PASSPORTS that are valid a minimum of 6 MONTHS AFTER TRAVEL, copy of birth certificate for any babies you are bringing, portable phone chargers, plug adapters (you will need the European plug as they have their own outlets), sunscreen, swimsuit, tissues (they are weirdly hard to come by) and good walking shoes!

Question

Are the beaches free?

Answer

Public beaches are free but rarely include things like beach chairs/umbrellas. If you want these amenities, you have to pay for them through a beach club. Do some general pricing research for a particular beach in your area to get an idea of pricing before you go. They may try to upsell you if they realize you are a tourist. NOTE: Italy has PEBBLE beaches. You will rarely find soft sand beaches. So dress accordingly. See our "Things to Do" page for more information.

Question

What will the weather be like?

Answer

Weather on the coast is warm but manageable in September with highs in the mid-80s and lows in the low-70s.

Question

How do I get around on trains?

Answer

Trains are the best way to get from city to city in Italy! It is affordable, safe, and often pretty quick. You do not need to book train tickets ahead of time, although if you know you have a long-haul journey on Tren Italia and want seats together, you might want to. FR indicates trains that are the fastest and REG indicates regional trains which are often cheaper but have more stops. DO NOT FORGET TO VALIDATE YOUR TICKETS ON THE TRAIN PLATFORM BEFORE BOARDING!

Question

Should I rent a car?

Answer

We do NOT recommend renting a car or driving on the coast. The streets are very narrow, winding, and confusing with many pedestrians, vespas, and hills. Rental cars are often manual transmission and very small. Take public transportation!

Question

Are there holidays or restrictions I should be mindful of?

Answer

Yes. In 2025, Italy will be hosting the "Jubilee Year," a special holy year in the Catholic Church, primarily centered in Rome and Vatican City, where millions of pilgrims are expected to visit for spiritual renewal and celebration, starting on Christmas Eve 2024 and ending on the Feast of the Epiphany (January 6th) in 2026. If you are planning to visit Rome, we suggest avoiding Vatican City completely and only using Rome to pass through.