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Picture of Italy

Travel Guide for
Italy

Italy

Mediterranean, alpine in north, hot summers

Introduction

Italy, located in southern Europe, is a peninsula surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea and known for its beautiful landscapes, from rolling Tuscan hills to the dramatic Amalfi Coast. With a rich history dating back to the Roman Empire and the Renaissance, Italy is full of fascinating ancient ruins and world-famous art cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice.

The culture is warm and family-oriented, with delicious cuisine and lively festivals suitable for all ages. Italy offers affordable options, such as pizza in Naples or exploring charming villages, making it perfect for families looking for memorable, budget-friendly vacations.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleFamily friendly

DatesNot specified

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel, apartment or house

Interests and Activities:

gastronomyarts and culturefamily activities

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Picture of Italy

Key Facts

Location

Southern Europe

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Religion

Roman Catholicism

Population

59,000,000

Language

Italian, regional languages

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, types C, F, L

Time zone

UTCCET (UTC+1)

Country code

+39

Internet access

Widespread, high-speed, affordable

Climate

Mediterranean, alpine in north, hot summers

See More Italy Facts

Language:

Italian

  • hello

    ciao (chow)

  • goodbye

    arrivederci (ah-ree-veh-DER-chee)

  • yes

    (see)

  • no

    no (noh)

  • how much

    quanto costa? (KWAN-toh KOH-sta)

  • please

    per favore (pehr fah-VOH-ray)

  • thank you

    grazie (GRAHT-see-eh)

  • excuse me

    mi scusi (mee SKOO-zee)

Map

Logistics

Most travelers reach Italy by air, with major airports in Rome, Milan, and Venice offering numerous international flights. Families on an average budget should compare flights from major hubs and consider flying into different cities for the best deals. When traveling within Europe, trains are a flexible and scenic option, connecting Italy to neighboring countries like France, Switzerland, and Austria.

Long-distance buses—such as FlixBus—are budget-friendly and serve many Italian cities. For a unique experience, ferries connect Italy with Greece, Croatia, and other Mediterranean destinations, though schedules can vary by season and weather. Book transportation in advance during peak seasons to secure seats and the best prices for your family.

Weather

Italy has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters, especially in the south and along the coasts. Northern regions, like Milan and the Alps, experience colder winters and occasional snowfall, while spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant throughout the country.

The best times to visit are late April to early June and September to October, when temperatures are comfortable and popular sites are less crowded. These seasons are ideal for exploring art, cuisine, and family activities. July and August can be very hot and crowded, especially in tourist hubs—many locals also vacation during August, leading to some closures.

Food & Drink

Italian cuisine is famous for its pizza, handmade pasta, gelato, and espresso. Don’t miss regional dishes such as Tuscan ribollita, Neapolitan pizza, and Sicilian arancini. Family-run trattorias and osterias offer authentic, affordable experiences, while bustling local markets, like Florence’s Mercato Centrale or Rome’s Campo de’ Fiori, are great places to sample fresh produce and street food.

Cafés (bars) are perfect for a quick cappuccino and pastry, and gelaterias are a must for sweet treats. In most restaurants, tipping is not required—service is often included, but you can leave small change for great service. Many eateries accommodate dietary needs, but it’s helpful to confirm vegetarian or allergy-friendly options in advance.

Keep in mind that Italians typically dine later than some families may be used to, and meal pace is relaxed. Booking ahead is wise in popular cities. Enjoy discovering the diverse flavors and friendly hospitality that Italian food culture offers!

A picture of Pizza

Pizza

Pizza is one of Italy's most famous and beloved foods. It features a thin, crispy crust topped with...

A picture of Lasagna

Lasagna

Lasagna is a classic Italian pasta dish consisting of layers of wide flat pasta, rich tomato sauce, creamy...

A picture of Risotto

Risotto

Risotto is a creamy and comforting Italian rice dish cooked with broth until it reaches a velvety consistency....

A picture of Tiramisu

Tiramisu

Tiramisu is a luscious and decadent Italian dessert made from layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone cheese, and...

A picture of Ossobuco

Ossobuco

Ossobuco is a traditional Milanese dish featuring braised veal shanks cooked with white wine, broth, and aromatic vegetables....

Accommodation

Italy offers excellent family-friendly hotels and apartments, especially in cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice. Look for central neighborhoods such as Rome’s Trastevere, Florence’s San Lorenzo, and Venice’s Cannaregio for easy access to attractions, restaurants, and public transport. These areas typically feature both comfortable hotels and modern vacation rentals with flexible amenities.

Booking.com and Airbnb are reliable sites for securing family-friendly apartments and hotels across Italy. Popular mid-range hotel chains like NH Hotels and Starhotels offer spacious family rooms. For a more authentic experience, consider renting an Italian “agriturismo”—a countryside apartment or house that provides both comfort and a taste of rural life, ideal for families seeking peace and space.

Itinerary

Ease into your Italian journey by enjoying authentic local cuisine, bonding as a family, and experiencing the warm hospitality of Italy's vibrant cities.

Gelato-Making Workshop for Families

Kick off your Italian adventure with a hands-on gelato workshop in Rome. Kids and adults alike will learn the secrets behind Italy’s favorite sweet treat, sample fresh flavors, and bond as a family in a fun, interactive environment. Great for easing into the culture!

Evening Piazza Navona Stroll & Family Photo Session

Take a gentle stroll through Piazza Navona’s vibrant square. Enjoy buskers, artists, and fountains, and capture beautiful family moments with a relaxed photo session amid the baroque architecture. Perfect for soaking in the city’s warm welcome.

Family Dinner at a Traditional Roman Trattoria

Enjoy a hearty Italian dinner at a local trattoria where you can taste homemade pasta and pizza. Many trattorias welcome families and offer kid-friendly menus, ensuring a warm hospitality experience for all ages.

Venetian Carnival Mask Making Class in Venice, Italy

Venetian Carnival Mask Making Class in Venice, Italy

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

If you want to live a real experience in the heart of Venice that's the right choice! A Venetian Master Artisan will explain to you, in 1 hour course, the traditional art of decorating a mask, an artistic personal event which will make you live the preparation for the Venetian Carnival. Create your own unique masterpiece and following your artistic streak, a special memory of an amazing experience and keep your artistic creation of the most emblematic icon of Venice!     An unconventional and handcrafted moment to live with your family or friends!

4.6 (474 reviews)

From $70 USD

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Attractions

4.6 (474 reviews)
Venetian Carnival Mask Making Class in Venice, Italy

Venetian Carnival Mask Making Class in Venice, Italy

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

If you want to live a real experience in the heart of Venice that's the right choice! A Venetian Master Artisan will explain to you, in 1 hour course, the traditional art of decorating a mask, an artistic personal event which will make you live the preparation for the Venetian Carnival. Create your own unique masterpiece and following your artistic streak, a special memory of an amazing experience and keep your artistic creation of the most emblematic icon of Venice!     An unconventional and handcrafted moment to live with your family or friends!

From $70 USD

View Details
4.9 (434 reviews)
Boat Tour in Capri Italy

Boat Tour in Capri Italy

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

... for us traveling means knowledge and excitement. Our tours are emotional experiences able to involve all the senses; there are three different levels of experience based on your needs and preferences: • Classic: for those who have little time, but are eager to get to know the island. • Relaxation: for those who love to enjoy the journey, without renouncing sun and sea. • Intensive: for lovers of intense travel and for those who want to spend a whole day immersed in nature and fun. The tour starts ONLY from Capri. Please note: waiting times for the Blue Grotto are very long (about one hour and a half). The ticket is not included and can only be purchased at the entrance, in cash. The waiting time will be removed from the duration of the tour, so we recommend booking at least the 4 hour tour (Relaxation).

From $373 USD

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4.4 (9 reviews)
Wine and Food Tasting in Naples Italy

Wine and Food Tasting in Naples Italy

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Taste the flavors of southern Italy through the eyes of a local. Visit a traditional family-owned winery and get to know the owners. Enjoy a wine tasting in the heart of the historic center of Naples. Immerse yourself in local culture by trying homemade Neapolitan food. Savor wines and delicacies at a 60-year-old bar in the city center.

From $59 USD

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5.0 (14 reviews)
Every Day Cooking Class in Lucca Italy

Every Day Cooking Class in Lucca Italy

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

If you want to try real Lucca’s flavors you are in the right place. We will make everything together and at the end we will eat what we cooked with a good glass of wine as accompaniment. Also kids can cook with us and actively participate to the cooking class. It is an excellent opportunity to learn how Italian grandma’s cook. We are here to learn and have fun by cooking together! We will cook pasta and tiramisù together, two very typical italian dishes and in the meanwhile we drink local wine or aperitivo! Vegetarian, vegan and no dairy options.

From $156 USD

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4.9 (28 reviews)
Micromosaic Jewelry Workshop in Rome, Italy

Micromosaic Jewelry Workshop in Rome, Italy

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Make your own unique and timeless piece of silver jewelry using the original Roman micromosaic technique and learn about the history and craftsmanship of this intricate art form.

From $143 USD

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FAQ

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