Exploring Italy: Essential tips and destination highlights

Author

Kasia Chojecki
September 01, 2024

Hello September!

Whether you subscribed a long time ago or just recently, I am very happy that you’re here. My goal has always been to help people make the most of their trips to Italy. After living here for a few years, I am better positioned to do so now, so I’ve decided to restart this newsletter. If this is something you’re no longer interested in, no problem. If you still want tips and ideas to make the most out of your trip to Italy, stick around.

It's been a scorching summer in Italy, with record temperatures and record numbers of visitors. So far, the heat is still here, but the crowds are slightly thinning out. I say slightly because I don't think there is such a thing as an off-season in Italy anymore. September and October are great months to visit Italy as you can still enjoy the warm weather, summer vibes and more chill atmosphere. It's also my favourite time to explore.

Enjoy this month's highlights, including a featured destination that might be cliche, but it's likely where you'll start your Italian adventure. It's also a must-see place to visit, and it's one of my favourite cities in Italy. Andiamo!

Resources guide:

Useful tools for helping you plan your trip:

*Includes affiliate links

Travel news
Italy is considering an increase and extension of the tourist tax

The Italian government is considering extending the tourist tax to all municipalities in 2025. This would allow them to apply the tax to all accommodations, which means the cost could increase next year even in less touristy areas. The talks are set to continue in September. | Read full article

Italy’s launching sleeper trains from Rome to dreamy mountain and sea destinations

Italy has launched new sleeper train routes connecting Rome with the Dolomites, Puglia, and soon, Piedmont. These overnight trains are part of the Treni Turistici project and offer a chance to travel on a refurbished vintage train. With modern comforts, including sleeper cabins and dining cars, it’s an appealing option for seeing Italy. | Read full article

Travel tips and advice
How Rome’s Jubilee 2025 will affect your travel

Next year is Rome's Jubilee year. This religious event, held every 25 years, is expected to attract 35 million pilgrims and tourists to the city. So, what does it mean for you? | Read full article

  • Rome has been undergoing extensive renovations. This means even now, construction is everywhere, and many monuments are boarded up as they are getting cleaned.

  • If you plan on travelling to Rome in 2025, expect significant crowds, especially around major religious sites like St. Peter’s Basilica.

  • With millions of pilgrims attending the events, finding accommodation will be difficult and expensive. This means they are booking (or have already booked) their accommodations in advance. You should do the same.

Driving In Italy: Useful tips for epic road trips

One of my favourite ways of seeing Italy is by car. It's a great way to explore off-the-beaten-path villages, vineyards and scenic landscapes often inaccessible by public transportation. You also don't have to rely on train or bus schedules, so you can take impromptu detours, linger in newly discovered spots, and discover hidden gems at your own pace.

Discover tips for driving in Italy, learn about the driving requirements and my tips for navigating the rules of the road. Spoiler: Driving in Italy is easier than you think.

Useful Italian phrases for travellers

One of the questions I get asked frequently is whether English is widely spoken in Italy. The answer is that it depends on where you are. In large, touristy cities like Rome, Milan or Venice, you'll find many English speakers, especially those who interact with tourists. It’s not as common in smaller towns and the countryside.

Don’t let that discourage you from ditching the large tourist spots and exploring Italy off the beaten path. Knowing even a handful of Italian phrases can go a long way to make your trip to Italy an even better experience. Use this handy guide to basic Italian phrases for your next trip.

Featured Destination 
Rome, the Eternal City

Parco degli Aranci

Rome is by far my favourite city in Italy. It is like a massive outdoor museum filled with culture, history and art. But, it's also a big and busy city that can be overwhelming for many first-time visitors. One of my most important tips for visiting Rome is to avoid cramming in as much as possible in a short time. You'll end up exhausted and most likely won't enjoy your visit.

If you have only a few days in Rome, I recommend taking an organized tour. It's a great way to discover Rome, get priority access to major attractions and skip the lines. Some tours also include transportation between attractions, and all come with a licensed guide to explain what you’re seeing. 

Here are a few recommendations for a fun way to explore Rome:

Recommended reading on the blog:

Podcast 
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S2 E6: Visiting Rome: First-Timer’s Guide to the Eternal City

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I hope you’ve enjoyed this issue of the Amongst Romans newsletter. Got questions or topics you’d like to be covered in future issues? Get in touch.

Alla prossima!

Kasia