Before our first trip to Italy, I spent so much time researching itineraries, tips & tricks, restaurants, and activities. While much of this set us up very well for our trip, there were a few things that could only be learned through the course of our travels. Italy travel tips
The tips I have compiled in this guide are the key lessons we learned on our trip that will genuinely enhance our return trip to Italy. Italy travel tips
Lesson 1: Visit Fewer Places Than You Think You Should
This is a lesson I have learned about traveling in general. While it can be enticing to squeeze in as many places as possible in a short amount of time, it usually makes a trip more stressful than fun. Italy travel tips
I built a realistic, fast-paced Italy itinerary that enabled us to see so much of Italy in two weeks. We did it. It’s absolutely possible and was a wonderful trip.
A Realistic 2 Week Italy Itinerary for First Time Visitors
Even so, it is really a valuable lesson to learn when traveling to slow down and thoughtfully enjoy fewer places rather than rush through a multitude of locations.
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Lesson 2: Build Free Time Into Your Itinerary
Related to visiting fewer places that you think you should is making sure you leave flexibility in your itinerary. Trust me, I have a tendency to plan my days down to the minute. This philosophy has often extended to my travel planning. This can be effective in ensuring you see a lot, but the quality of the time spent at each stop may not always be the best because you’re always thinking about what’s next. I have found that leaving breathing room in your plans often leads to some of the most special moments. Italy travel tips
Lesson 3: Don’t Underestimate Travel Days
Traveling between cities is fairly simple in Italy. Despite this, there can be unexpected delays that can interrupt plans. My recommendation is to leave a travel day allocated just for getting from point a to point b. This relieves any stress from having to rush to a booked time slot and leaves time to walk and get your bearings to the city. Italy travel tips
Lesson 4: Wake Up Earlier Than You Normally Would
I’m not saying you have to get up at the crack of dawn, but even getting up at 6 a.m. to be out the door at 7 a.m. means you are out before the majority of people. This leads to quiet moments wandering streets and absorbing the ambiance without the pressure of crowds. Italy travel tips
Lesson 5: Learn the Train System Before You Go
The train system is fairly easy to use, but knowing the tips and tricks ahead of time helps the trip go more smoothly. Italy travel tips
I put together a complete guide How to Use Trains in Italy: A Practical Guide for First-Timers. Italy travel tips
Lesson 6: Prioritize Experiences Over Attractions
Italy boasts many attractions that are very much worth the visit. That said, I found that allocating time to experiences made the trip even more enjoyable. For example, we did a pasta making class in Florence that was so much fun and left a strong impression that lasted well after we had left Italy. Italy travel tips
Lesson 7: Some of the Best Moments Cost Almost Nothing
There are so many charming moments in Italy that happen naturally and cost very little. Wandering the winding streets admiring the architecture is free. A shot of espresso standing at a cafe costs 2 euros. Enjoying a glass of wine at a street-side cafe while people-watching is 5 euros. There are so many wonderful moments that surface just by slowing down and enjoying the space you’re in. Italy travel tips
Lesson 8: Don’t Try to See Everything
The reality is you can’t see everything. Even if you had a full week in one city, the likelihood of you being able to see all the attractions and museums, and doing all the activities the city has to offer is low. Therefore, evaluate the must-sees, decide what appeals to you the most, and arrange your itinerary accordingly. Italy travel tips
Lesson 9: Embrace the Rhythm of Italy
Indulge in Apertivo. Enjoy a two hour dinner. Stand at the counter to drink espresso. Immerse yourself in the culture of Italy and let each moment breathe.
What Coffee Culture in Italy Reveals About Everyday Life
The Wrap-Up
There is so much to enjoy in Italy. All of these lessons learned will ensure your trip is well-balanced and exciting. The main takeaway is to leave plenty of space to enjoy the little moments while still planning for all things you want to see. It is possible to have a mix of activity and ease if planned well and opportunity for flexibility is given. Italy travel tips
Plan your trip with ease using the Italy Planning Ecosystem: Italy travel tips
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