FAQs

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Accommodation

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There are several accommodation options surrounding our wedding venue. Search for Villa Olimpia on Google Maps to see the accommodation options. A few include: Borgo Rapale Tenute di Mansalto - Podere Cortinova Marrocco Mansalto - Podere Palazzuolo Vecchio Fortilizio di Campiglia Castello di Gargonza Castel Monastero Resort

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International bank card

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While travelling through Europe last year, we found 'UP Bank' to be the most user-friendly card with the best exchange rates. Simply apply for the card, load your money, and tap away.

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Getting around Italy

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Travelling by Train: Travel by train to enjoy views of the stunning Italian countryside. You can buy a paper ticket at the station, online through Italian train companies like Trenitalia or Italo, or via the Trainline website/app. Note: If purchasing a paper ticket at the station, be sure to validate it before boarding, as these tickets are not date-specific. Online tickets do not require validation—just hop on and enjoy the ride. Travelling by Taxi: Taxis can be found around bus and train stations. If you call for a taxi by phone, the meter will usually start running when you place the call, not when you are picked up. Taxi drivers in major tourist destinations do not have a great reputation; make sure to ask in advance about the rate and whether you can pay by card, and check that the meter is turned on. Rideshares are limited in Italy. At the moment, services like Uber cannot legally operate in Italy as they do in many other European countries Travelling by Private Transfer: These can be booked online. 'Get Your Guide' is a reliable company we used many times while travelling through Italy in 2024. Travelling by plane: Internal flights are best for longer distances as Italy’s train and bus networks are both affordable and reliable. Hiring a Car: Drivers must generally be 21 or older and hold both a valid home-country driver’s license and an International Driving Permit. Insurance covering personal and material damage is required to drive in Italy.

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Speak like a local

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Download 'Duolingo' – it’s a fun and interactive app to learn some basic Italian phrases. For now, here are some common Italian phrases you might find helpful: Ciao — Hello or Hi (informal) Ciao — Goodbye (informal) Arrivederci — Goodbye (formal) Sì — Yes No — No Grazie — Thank you Per favore — Please Prego — You’re welcome Scusa — Sorry Quanto costa — How much does it cost?

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Dining in Italy

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If you're dining at a sit-down restaurant, especially in tourist areas, expect to see a “coperto” (cover charge) added to your bill - this is normal and usually ranges from €1 to €3 per person. Coffee culture is different, too: cappuccinos are typically enjoyed in the morning. After lunch or dinner, Italians usually go for an espresso. Ordering a “latte” will get you a glass of milk - so ask for a “caffè latte” if that’s what you’re after!

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Shopping in Italy

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In Italy, Value Added Tax (VAT) is included in the price of most goods and services, which means the price you see is the price you pay. However, if you're a non-EU resident, you can often get a VAT refund on certain purchases, making shopping even more enjoyable! How VAT Refunds Work for Non-EU Shoppers: If you're visiting Italy as a tourist and plan to take items home with you, you can claim a VAT refund on purchases made at participating stores. Here’s how it works: 1. Shop at stores offering VAT refunds: Look for the "Tax-Free Shopping" signs in stores. You’ll need to spend a minimum amount (typically around €155.01) at participating retailers. 2. Ask for a VAT refund form: When you make a purchase, request a Tax-Free Shopping form (also known as a Global Refund Form). You’ll need to show your passport as proof of non-EU residency. Get your form stamped at customs: When you’re leaving Italy (or the EU), take your purchases, receipts, and VAT refund forms to the customs desk at the airport or border. Customs will stamp your form to confirm that the goods are leaving the EU. Claim your refund: After the customs stamp, you can either claim your refund at the airport or mail the forms back to the retailer or VAT refund company. Refunds can typically be processed via cash, credit card, or bank transfer. Tips: - Keep receipts: Always ask for a receipt and ensure it matches the details on your VAT refund form. - Allow extra time at the airport: Customs checks can take a little while, especially during peak travel times.