Italy Insider Tips: Bel Paese Uncovered…

A guide to exploring the popular cities of Italy, the shopping, dining and places of interest...

Museums, monuments and scenery:

A visit to Tuscany’s Leaning Tower of Pisa is at the top of every tourist hotspot list. Try to purchase your ticket before you get to Pisa to avoid long queues and make sure you remember your allocated time. The 300 piece staircase can be physically demanding for some visitors. It is advised not to embark on the climb if you are claustrophobic or suffer with dizziness as the helical stairway has small dimensions. Be aware that entry is not allowed for children aged below 8 years. Photography is allowed so don’t forget your cameras.

A visit to the Coliseum when in Rome goes without saying. The world renowned tourist attraction is an iconic symbol of imperial Rome. With thousands of tourists each day, avoid the abundance of people and try to visit this attraction early, the doors open from 9am. Before you take photos with the gladiator impersonators, be aware they are expecting a fee in return. Like most tourist hot spots, be aware of pickpockets and keep valuables in a safe place.

The Sistine Chapel is visibly one of the greatest world-renowned art forms of our time. Four years of Michelangelo’s painting, frescoed panels and wall hangings of silver and gold create an overwhelming famed interior. No matter what time of day you visit, expect hundreds of tourists visiting the Chapel. Entrance on the last Sunday of each month is free; but apart from this you can expect very high prices. Remember to dress appropriately, skirts must be below the knee, shorts are not permitted and you must cover your shoulders.

Penne, Bolognese and tiramisu:

Dining in Italy is a leisurely time to relax and enjoy the company of friends and family. Italian cuisine is recognized for its regional differences, of course Italy is famed for exquisite pizza and pasta but you can expect so much more.

When in Venice you will find risotto served with fresh fish and sea food are all over the place. Lombardy is popular for rice and risotto and when in Rome, you can expect to taste the best carbonara in Italy as well as many other international dishes. Try the finest Mozzarella in Campania where the milk of water buffalo is highly prized.

lowcostholidays recommend you take advantage of the unique dishes found in each region as you’re unlikely to come across them at home. With so much to offer you will be spoilt for choice, don’t rush any decisions, and take your time as dining out in Italy is unhurried.

Italians generally never leave more than a 5% tip, in most establishments tipping isn’t even an option, so don’t waste money unless you received an amazing service. In low-priced establishments, it’s fine to round up to the nearest euro or two.

Espresso coffee…

Espresso coffee machines were first introduced in Milan Italy, so there’s no surprise the city is full of flawless coffee houses. Milan boasts highly decent crushed coffee beans; you will find the best grounded coffee in traditional Italian coffee houses, an average coffee will be priced just €2.

You won’t see many cappuccinos after noon, in Italy it’s strictly a breakfast drink but of course you can drink one if you can find one.

Money:

The local currency is the euro. As Italy is a developed country you can assume traveller’s cheques and foreign money will be exchanged in banks, airports and major hotels. MasterCard, American Express and Visa are also widely accepted and there is an abundance of ATM’s around the country.

Holiday snaps:

General tourist photography is allowed in Italy but we would advise making sure cameras are permitted in major attractions before you start snapping away. Photography is not allowed in the Sistine Chapel but, most churches, museums and attractions will sell photos so you can take the memories home with you.

Try the water; it’s safe and healthy…

Italy is the main consumer of drinking water. Why waste money on bottled water? Tap water is drinkable everywhere; you can even drink the water from Rome’s many fountains as the water comes straight from mountain springs. There are plenty of places to fill your bottle up as public watering places are very safe.

Do I need sun cream?

Italy’s climate varies per region, so pack according to where you’re travelling to. Summer temperatures in the south are far hotter than in the north, lowcostholidays recommend you take sun protection with you, especially if you plan on seeing the outdoor sites. The wettest area is in the North but Italy is typically a temperate destination to visit year round. For the warmest and most consistent weather, visit Italy between April and June, when the tourist season is buzzing.

Luxury shopping:

Italy is a renowned destination for shopping. Rome, Milan, Venice and Florence are perhaps the best cities for shopping depending on what you’re looking for. These cities are home to some of the biggest fashion labels in the world. You’re sure to find leading producers of luxury clothing and accessories; Gucci, Valentino and Armani are just a hint of what to expect so, be prepared for an expensive spending spree.

Milan is the heart of luxury shopping. Although this famous fashion hub is home to the most prestigious boutiques and showrooms in the world you can expect to find various goods for a range of budgets.

The open air markets are definitely worth a visit on your holiday in Italy. Flea markets, food markets and antique markets are ideal for those looking for a unique bargain. Be careful, the crowed stalls are an ideal spot for pickpockets; make sure you zip up your bags and keep your values in a safe place.

Other useful tips:

• Make sure you pick up a good map before you arrive, or soon after you get there so you can visualize how far apart the sights on your to-do list are.
• Remember your plug adapters, the 3 pin plug is what you will need.

-Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain to guarantee your return to Rome.