Italy travel Tips
Travelling in Italy is relatively hassle-free and Italy is well known for its excellent bus and rail system, which are favoured by many as a relaxing and scenic way to see the country and its incredible array of sights and attractions.
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Italy is at its best in spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November). During these seasons, the scenery is beautiful, the temperatures are pleasant and there are relatively few crowds.
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Italy is famous for its shopping, as well as its strictly enforced shopping etiquette. Make sure you greet the storeowner as this sets a pleasant mood. Never touch anything in the window display; you’ll be severely chastised otherwise. Eating, drinking and smoking in shops are generally frowned upon.
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Italy has one of the highest rates of motor vehicle accidents in the European Union. Also, the number of robberies from cars, at rest stops and service stations on the motorways, is on the increase. If you do drive, remember that it is obligatory to use dipped headlights during the day while travelling outside cities.
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Banks in Italy are open Monday through Friday from 08:35 to 13:35 and from 15:00 to 16:00. In many tourist areas they are open non-stop from 08:30 to 16:00. ATMs are common throughout the country.
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Passports are not stamped upon arrival, so for people entering as tourists, the standard three-month allowable length of stay can be interpreted with a certain flexibility.
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Making an effort to speak a few words of Italian goes a long way, and you’ll find new friendships and opportunities present themselves as a result.
Useful travel tips resources
Footprint Guides - Italy
Excellent resource covering travel in Italy from this well-known travel guide publisher.
http://www.footprintguides.com/
Italian Tourist Board
Official site of the Italian government’s tourist board, packed with helpful information.
http://www.italiantourism.com/
In Italy
Around since 1993, this site offers a wealth of information as well as unique tips and advice.
http://www.initaly.com/
More topics on this site…
Italy travel information
Italy health and safety
Italy maps and geography
Essentials
Visas: Not required for most nationals, 90-day tourist stays
Season: April-May, October-November
Money: Euro – ATMs widely available
Language: Italian
Emergency #: Ambulance 118, Police 113, Fire 115