From the ancient Roman Empire to the heights of the Renaissance, Italy has been a hub of culture and knowledge. Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Marco Polo, Francis of Assisi – Italian alumni read like a who’s who of history. It has more world heritage sites than any country on the planet; yet far from resting on its laurels, cities such as Milan and Rome remain capitals of art and fashion, inspiring Giorgio Armani, Luciano Pavarotti, Sophia Loren and Enzo Ferrari among others.
Italians themselves place a high value on intuition. Putting some effort into a good first impression can reap rewards in the long run. Get to know the country and be open in your admiration – for there is plenty to admire.
In Rome, tour the Sistine Chapel, gaze at the heavens from the Pantheon or lose yourself in the eerie underworld of the Catacombs. Try an evening gondola or a sunset tango in Venice, or witness the sheer power of nature at the ruins of Pompeii, one of the most striking archaeological sites in Europe. Join the fashionistas in Milan and wander through the city’s endless boutiques, before experiencing the pure passion of the local football derby.
When you’re done, try a Via Ferrata in the Dolomites or cool off skiing in the Alps. The mountains in the north, like the gorgeous Mediterranean coastline, display an altogether more peaceful, meditative side to this beautiful country.
Getting there
International airports are located at Rome, Milan, Pisa and Venice, among others. Alpine trains and buses connect to a variety of European countries, while ferries are available from numerous Mediterranean ports.
Getting around
Train, bus and ferry can get you almost anywhere in Italy; trains in particular are good value. Driving and parking is expensive and stressful and makes road travel unappealing.
Local information
Language: Italian
Time: UTC +1
Climate: Mediterranean. Hot dry summers and cool wet winters. Temperature: Max 31°C (July), Min 5°C (January). Rainfall: Max 130mm (October), Min 10mm (July).
Currency: Euro
Business etiquette: Suits should be worn and appointments made in advance. It is not possible to meet with government officials in the afternoon. Italians prefer to do business with those they trust; building a relationship is important and a third party introduction can be useful.
Tipping: Tipping is not usually required.
Duty free: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco; 1l of spirits or 2l of beers, wines or cider; 50g of perfume; 250ml of eau de toilette; 500g of coffee; 100g of tea; medication for personal use.
Safety: Petty crime in cities is common, particularly near major tourist spots. Thieves often work in groups to provide distraction.
Laws: It is illegal to drink in some public places. Heavy penalties are incurred for drug offences. Littering is illegal in Venice and Florence.
Healthcare: Vaccination for tetanus required. Excellent medical facilities available, European citizens get free healthcare with an EHIC card. Non-EU travellers may be charged and should have full health insurance.
Socket type: Type C, Type L
