The best time to visit Italy is during the shoulder seasons in April-May and September-October. These months bring gorgeous, mild weather perfect for exploring Italy’s coastlines, countryside and historic sites without the summer crowds. Plus, the beaches are still warm enough for a relaxing day by the sea.  

Winter also holds a unique charm, especially in the northern regions. While it can be chilly in December, and snow may fall, it's a beautiful season to experience Italy's magical Christmas markets. Added perks to the low season are reducing your impact on over-tourism and paying a wee bit less for those flights!

Learn more about the best time to visit Italy  

Sharing borders with Switzerland, France, Slovenia, and Austria, Italy also encompasses the independent territories of San Marino and Vatican City, including the islands of Sicily and Sardinia.

Home to mountains, volcanoes, islands, beaches, spectacular cliffs and expansive stretches of coastline, the natural landscapes of Italy provide dramatic scenery as well as popular places to explore and relax for travellers. This diversity runs from the icy peaks of the Alps in the north to sun-drenched beaches along the Mediterranean. The major cities of Italy, although industrialised, still retain buildings, churches and relics from the past. It's quite common to see modern shops housed in historic cobblestone streets and new Vespas perched beside piazzas.

In smaller cities and more isolated areas, rural life is a whole lot slower. Permaculture remains popular, with many Italians growing fruit and vegetables in their backyards. The traffic and frenetic pace of the cities give way to idyllic olive groves, vineyards and farmhouses.

1. Venice

Oh, Venice. The city of romance, gondolas, Piazza San Marco and an endless maze of canals. With plenty of free time to eat, drink, shop and stroll, you’ll lose all sense of direction – but remember, getting lost in Venice is the whole point! Don't forget to sample a big slice of tiramisu (coffee-soaked sponge cake), the region’s specialty.

2. Cinque Terre

The footpaths between the villages on the enchanting Cinque Terre were once the only way to travel in the region. Hike along the rugged clifftops and discover olive groves, vineyards, breathtaking vistas and five pastel villages perched on the coastline – each more colourful than the last. If hiking isn’t your thing, don’t worry – just jump on the train

3. Amalfi Coast

Discover southern Italy’s dazzling coastline of cliffside villages and rugged terrain by land and sea. You might like to hike the famous Walk of the Gods, sip Campari in Sorrento, or tuck into traditional pizza in Naples – the birthplace of pizza.

4. Tuscany

There's much more to Tuscany than Florence's impressive Renaissance art and architecture – though there'll be plenty of time to explore this! From rolling hills and fruitful vineyards to charming fortified towns with their relaxed vibes, the Tuscan countryside is the Italy that continues to draw you back, the one you fall in love with.

5. Rome

Italy’s enduring capital, the epicentre of the fierce Roman Empire – Rome is a living, breathing history book. Dive deep into the city’s most iconic sites – the Forum, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps – and stumble upon the country within a city: the Vatican. Or simply sip espresso at one of the tiny streetside cafes and watch life go by.

6. Sicily

Sitting under the watchful eye of moody Mt Etna, Sicily is a taste of authentic Italy. Surrounded by a sea of turquoise speckled with volcanic islands, Sicily boasts diverse landscapes of rocky mountains, rural pastures, ancient ruins and villages seeped in history.  

7. The Dolomites

Carpeted in wildflowers in summer and a blanket of snow in winter, the Dolomites are a breathtaking sight in any season. Whether you’re hiking the trails or just taking in the views with a gourmet picnic in Ampezzo Dolomites Natural Park, you’ll soon realize why this destination has a mighty reputation.  

Things to try in Italy

Antipasto
If any country knows its way around cured meat and vegetables, it’s Italy. Discover salami, olives, artichokes, anchovies, cheeses, grissini and more, with each board changing depending on what region you find yourself in.

Pizza
If you were asked to describe Italy in one word, chances are someone would yell ‘pizza’. This carby dish is found all over, with regional specialities everywhere you go. And if you’re vegan? No stress – just ask for one of the vegetarian pizzas ‘senza formaggio’ (without cheese) and you’ll be set.  

Pasta
Different shapes, different sauces and different preparations make this one of the world’s most versatile dishes. From a fiery penne arrabbiata and a creamy spaghetti cacio e pepe to a baked gnocchi alla romana, you really can’t go wrong.

Gelato
Traditional Italian flavours like bacio (chocolate hazelnut), amarena (sour cherry) and limone (lemon) are the perfect accompaniment to sightseeing on a hot summer's day. Stack the gusti (flavours) up on a cono (cone) or in a copetta (cup) for a quick snack.

Wine
Italy produces some of the world's best wine, so savour a glass (or three) of Chianti or Sangiovese with dinner. Most regions of Italy produce their own wine, but the area that everyone talks about is the one and only Tuscany.

Aperitivo
A classic Italian pastime, aperitivo hour calls for two things: to find a local restaurant or bar in the early evening, and to order yourself a drink. This is usually a light and dry tonic, but can be wine or a cocktail. It’s usually accompanied by some complimentary snacks.

Learn more about what to eat in Italy

Learn more about what to drink in Italy

Italy’s history and culture are as rich as its food. From the rise of the Roman Empire around 750 BC, the civilization has captivated scholars, artists and travellers for centuries. With its intricate architecture, groundbreaking political systems and military prowess, Rome set the stage for what would later become the world’s most influential societies. Fast-forward to the Renaissance in the 15th and 16th centuries, and Italy was bustling with artists, scientists and innovators who transformed Europe and paved the way for the modern world.

Today, Italy is a lively republic, deeply proud of its heritage and passionate about its culture. Family and food form the bedrock of Italian society – meals aren’t just about eating; they’re daily celebrations of connection and conversation. Italians are known for living with gusto, savouring the simple pleasures and sharing them with loved ones. This zest for life is on full display at events like Natale di Roma, Carnevale and the Verona Opera Festival.

Learn more about festivals in Italy

The official currency of Italy is the Euro (EUR).

Major credit cards are widely accepted by stores in cities and tourist areas. Smaller cafes, shops and markets may not accept credit cards and smaller museums and galleries may charge an entry fee in cash only. In Italy, cash is king!  

ATMs are common in Italy, so finding one shouldn’t be a problem in most towns and cities. It’s best practice to carry enough cash, just in case.