Things to do in Italy 🇮🇹: Guide to discover the best of the country

Why visit Italy: the eternal charm of the Bel Paese

Italy is one of those destinations that steals your heart from the very first step. Its ancient history, mouth-watering gastronomy, and cinematic landscapes make it a classic impossible to ignore. As a couple of travelers from Argentina, we have toured it several times with the thrill of experiencing its architecture, delicious food, villages, and that “dolce far niente” that is so enjoyable.

From the Roman Colosseum to the rolling hills of Tuscany, passing through Venetian gondolas or the beaches of Amalfi, Italy has that blend of beauty, chaos, and passion that makes you feel alive. If you are planning a European adventure, this Italy travel guide is the ideal starting point to organize your route and make the most of every corner.

Preparations for your trip to Italy

Traveling to Italy is easier than it seems, but some details are worth keeping in mind before you head out.

Documentation and visa for Argentines

Argentines do not need a visa to enter the Schengen area if the stay is less than 90 days. Only a valid passport (with more than six months of validity) is required. Starting in 2025, the ETIAS system will be implemented, an electronic authorization prior to travel, similar to the ESTA of the United States. It is advisable to process it online before flying.

Best time to travel to Italy

Italy can be enjoyed all year round, but each season has its charm. In spring (April to June), the weather is perfect and the landscapes bloom. Summer (July and August) brings heat, festivals, and crowded beaches. Autumn (September and October) is ideal for those who prefer fewer tourists and to explore or taste wines. Winter, especially in the north, invites you to skiing and Christmas markets.

Budget and currency

The Euro is the official currency. Italy is not cheap, but you can travel well with planning. An average daily budget is around €80-120 per person. To save money, it is best to combine budget accommodation with local meals (trattorias are a great find!).

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Transport within the country

Trains are king. Trenitalia and Italo connect almost all cities. For more freedom, renting a car in Tuscany or Sicily is a great idea. Buses like FlixBus offer good rates for long distances.

Things to do in Italy: Travel guide by region

Italy is made up of 20 regions, each with its own identity, dialect, and gastronomy. Exploring them is understanding why this country is so fascinating.

Rome and the Vatican: living history

Rome is an open-air museum. The Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon tell stories of over two thousand years. Don’t miss the Trevi Fountain, ideal for tossing a coin and making a wish. The Vatican, with the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica, is a spiritual and artistic gem.

Florence and Tuscany: art and dreamlike landscapes

The cradle of the Renaissance, Florence dazzles with Michelangelo’s David, the Duomo, and the Ponte Vecchio. But Tuscany goes further: villages like Siena, San Gimignano, or Montepulciano seem to be frozen in time. Ideal for a road trip through vineyards and sunsets.

Venice: the city of canals

Few places are as photogenic as Venice. Gondola riding along the Grand Canal, getting lost in its alleys, or admiring St. Mark’s Square is a unique pleasure. A tip: get away from the tourist routes and explore the Dorsoduro or Cannaregio districts.

Milan and Northern Italy: fashion, lakes, and the Alps

Milan combines elegance and design. The Duomo, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” are unmissable. A few hours away, Lake Como and Lake Garda offer dreamlike landscapes among mountains and luxury villas.

Naples, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast

Southern Italy vibrates differently. Naples is pure authenticity and the birthplace of pizza. From there, you can visit Pompeii and Herculaneum, or travel along the spectacular Amalfi Coast, with Positano, Vietri Sul Mare, Amalfi, and Ravello hanging over the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Sicily and Sardinia: islands with their own soul

Sicily mixes volcanoes, Greek temples, and turquoise water beaches. Sardinia, on the other hand, is a natural paradise with hidden coves. Both islands are ideal for those looking for sun, history, and authenticity.

Unique experiences to do in Italy

Italy is experienced beyond its monuments. Here are some experiences you can’t miss.

Eat like a local

Taste fresh pasta in Rome, Neapolitan pizza, risotto in Milan, or artisanal gelato on any corner. Each region has its flavor. And yes, coffee is drunk standing at the bar.

Wine and olive oil routes

The Tuscan hills and Piedmont are ideal for wine tourism. You can visit family wineries, taste wines, and learn about olive oil production.

Festivals and cultural events

From the Venice Carnival to the Limoncello Festival in Amalfi, Italy is full of celebrations. In summer, open-air music festivals abound.

Practical tips for traveling around Italy

How to save on transport and accommodation

Booking trains in advance, using Airbnb or agriturismos, and taking advantage of regional passes can reduce costs. Apps like Omio and Booking are perfect allies.

Safety and local customs

Italy is safe, but in tourist areas, you should look after your bags and wallets. Italians value courtesy: a “buongiorno” opens many doors.

Connectivity and SIM cards

In Italy, companies like Iliad or Vodafone offer SIMs with unlimited data for less than €20. You can also opt for an eSIM (link with a 5% discount) if your phone allows it.

Stories, photos, videos, places, tips, and advice for traveling to Italy

🇮🇹 Stories: Things to do in Italy 🇮🇹

Cinque Terre

Greve in Chianti

Milan

Portofino

Siena

Videos in Italy

Cinque Terre:

Florence:

Lecco – Lake Como:

Lido of Venice:

Frequently asked questions about Things to do in Italy

What should you not miss in Italy?

The Colosseum in Rome, Tuscany with its vineyard landscapes, Venice and its canals, the Amalfi Coast, Florence with its Renaissance art, northern lakes like Como and Garda, and the island of Sicily. Each region has something unique to offer.

How many days are needed to get to know Italy?

It depends on the route, but for a first visit, we recommend between 10 and 15 days.

What are the 7 wonders of Italy?

The 7 wonders of Italy are considered to be: the Roman Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, Piazza San Marco in Venice, the Cathedral of Florence, the Ruins of Pompeii, and the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento (Sicily).

Which is the most beautiful ancient city in Italy?

Rome is the most beautiful and impressive ancient city in Italy due to its history, Roman monuments, and ancient remnants. However, Florence and Matera are also ancient gems with great historical and visual value.

Is it expensive to travel around Italy?

Compared to Spain or Portugal, a little more, but there are options for all budgets.

Can you drive with an Argentine license?

Yes, but you must have the international driving permit.

What typical foods should you try?

EVERYTHING! Neapolitan pizza, carbonara pasta, Bolognese lasagna (all pastas), delicious vegetables (caponata), tiramisu, cannoli, and artisanal ice cream (gelatoooo 🤤).

Is it safe to travel by train?

Yes, the rail system is efficient and reliable. Just look after your belongings in large stations.

Conclusion: why Italy always leaves a mark

Italy is not just visited, it is experienced. Every city, every dish, and every conversation with a local leaves a mark. As a couple of travelers, we would return a thousand times more: there is always a new corner to discover.

If you are planning your adventure, this travel guide on Things to do in Italy is the perfect starting point. And if you want to keep getting inspired, at Recalculando Viajes we have more articles about Italian destinations that will help you build your dream route. 🇮🇹💕

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— Nanu & Facu 🌎 | Recalculando Viajes 💜