How to Travel Like You Mean It: 10 Tips for a More Authentic Italian Adventure

Italy has a way of getting under your skin—in the best possible way. Whether you’re dreaming of wandering the cobbled streets of Tuscan hill towns or sipping espresso in a Venetian piazza, a little planning (and a lot of curiosity) can make all the difference. Here are a few tried-and-tested tips to help you travel with intention—and avoid the rookie mistakes.

1. Travel with the Seasons in Mind
Every season in Italy brings its own charm. Spring bursts into bloom with wildflowers and fewer crowds, while autumn dazzles with golden vineyards and mellow sunshine. Summer is glorious but hot—and busy, especially by the coast. Winter? Think Alpine ski towns or quiet strolls through Florence and Rome without the high-season hustle.

2. Learn a Little Italian
A simple grazie (thank you) or per favore (please) goes a long way. Locals love it when you try—even if your accent’s a little off. Bonus points for dov’è il bagno? (Where’s the bathroom?) when you’re in a pinch.

3. Pack with Purpose
Leave the heels at home. Cobblestones and hilltop towns are no joke—opt for comfortable shoes. Layers are key too; temperatures shift dramatically between north and south, day and night. And if you’re planning to step inside a church, cover your shoulders and knees out of respect.

4. Time Your Meals Right
Lunch is usually served from 12:30 to 2:30pm, and dinner rarely starts before 8pm. Many restaurants shut between lunch and dinner, so don’t get caught out wandering hungry. Aperitivo, anyone?

5. Eat Like a Local
Italy’s food scene is fiercely regional. Order tagliatelle al ragù in Bologna, real-deal pizza in Naples, and arancini or cannoli in Sicily. Always ask for the house wine—it’s usually excellent and brilliantly priced.

6. Validate That Train Ticket
If you’re hopping on a regional train, stamp your ticket at the little machines on the platform first. Miss this step and you risk a fine, even if your ticket’s paid for.

7. Embrace the Night
Italians don’t rush their evenings. Join them for la passeggiata—the early evening stroll—and enjoy the buzz of late-night gelaterias and bars. It’s all part of the experience.

8. Say No to Bottled Water
Italy’s tap water is clean, fresh, and free. In cities like Rome and Florence, you’ll find public fountains (called fontanelle) everywhere. Carry a reusable bottle and fill up as you go.

9. Skip the Tourist Menus
That charming trattoria in the main square? It might not be your best bet. Instead, wander down a side street and follow the locals. If there’s no menu in English, even better.

10. Slow Down
Italy wasn’t made to be rushed. Pick a few places and really sink into them—whether it’s the sunlit streets of Cortona or the markets of Palermo. Let yourself be surprised, inspired, and occasionally lost. That’s the beauty of la dolce vita.