What to Expect in Italy: Transportation and Accommodations

Italy is a romantic, richly historical country that has been intriguing world travelers for centuries. In addition to its fine wines and world-class cuisine, Italy offers its tourists a variety of wonderful sites, including picturesque landscapes and breathtaking historical monuments.

With so much to see and experience in Italy, those planning to visit this country should do a bit of research and planning to make their trip as worthwhile as possible. Knowing what to expect can help reduce your possible stress of being in a foreign environment.

Italian Traveling Resource

When you are planning your visit to Italy and don't speak Italian well, carry a portable Italian language dictionary and a reliable travel guide with you wherever you go. These two resources will make it so much easier for you to navigate throughout Italian cities and to communicate with native Italians.

For additional help getting around Italy, consider hiring an Italian interpreter or tour guide for the first few days of your trip. With the help of an Italian interpreter, you can enjoy the wonders of Italy and get inside tips about unique local hotspots.

Getting Around in Italy: Public and Private Transportation Options

Like many popular destinations, Italy has many different transportation options to offer the adventurous tourist. Here is a brief look at some of the most popular transportation options in Italy:

• Bus: Public buses or subways are inexpensive ways to travel about larger Italian cities. Keep in mind, however, that these modes of public transport usually stop a number of times, which can significantly add to your travel time. Learn more with this complete listing of Italian buses.
• Cab: Taxicabs are quick, reliable options for Italian traveling. While they may cost more money than a bus or subway, cabs can save you tremendous time and the headache of having to navigate a foreign transport system on your own. To catch a cab in Italy, head to one of the main piazzas. Most Italian cabs, which are always white, will wait for riders in main piazzas.
• Rental Cars: Renting a car is a good idea for any traveler who wants to explore the country on his own. Remember, however, you will need to obtain (and be able to follow) directions, comply with local driving regulations and pay for gas (which can be significantly more expensive) if you decide to rent a car. For the best rates, be sure to book your rental car in the U.S. about two weeks before your trip. Get more information on Italian car rental rates.
• Train: Riding the train in Italy can save you money, expose you to the Italian countryside and make traveling easy, as you won't be forced to navigate directions when riding the train. Italy offers a vast network of train routes, making it convenient to reach most large and small Italian cities across the peninsula.
• Plane: If you are visiting Italy from further distances, you will likely need to fly into an Italian airport. Since Italy has a number of different airports, plan your flight around your chosen destination.

Italian Currency

Like most other countries of the European Union, Italy has adopted the euro as its national currency. In fact, euro coins and banknotes replaced the Italian Lira in 2002. Today, travelers can exchange their currency for euros at airports, hotels and banks throughout Italy.

Get an up-to-date calculation of Euro exchange rates.

Best Places to Stay in Italy

When it comes to places to stay, Italy offers its tourists a vast number of choices that range from being inexpensive to opulent. The best accommodations for you depend on your budget and preferences, as well as the budgets and preferences of your travel companions.

Here is a look at popular accommodation options within Italy:

• Castles: Like many European countries, Italy has a number of breathtaking castles that can serve as fun alternatives to more traditional accommodations. Because castles have limited rooms and are popular options, be sure to make your reservations months in advance if you want to stay in an Italian castle. Search for available Italian castle accommodations.
• Hostels: While hostels are known for being economical, communal accommodations, in Italy, hostels have the added of charm of being in villas or other charming buildings. Students, solo travelers or tourists on a strict budget are best suited for Italian hostels. View a comprehensive listing of Italian hostels.
• Hotels: These traditional accommodations can vary in price, location and luxury. Anyone looking for more privacy and comfort should consider staying in an Italian hotel. Search for a range of Italian hotel options and book your stay now.

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