How to save money in Italy when visiting for an extended period.?

Question

I am taking my family to Italy in August. I have a friend there that says high season is in Apr. May. June & July. Then again at Christmas. My Question is that we will be there for an extended period as we want to soak in as much as possible. I am thinking to rent an apt. for the time as it seems to be more affordable than hotels...also how do we save on travel & food? Am I on the right track with this? As much info as possible will be appreciated. Oh & Currency exchange! my daughter told me to buy euros at the bank here before we leave as the service charges are enormous abroad.

Answer 1

August is the vacation period here in Italy, but it is still a part of the peak tourist season. You can save on food by cooking for yourself in your apartment. Shop in the local markets. If you go out to eat stay away from the tourist areas as much as possible - not only is the food cheaper, but it's generally better. If you stop for a coffee, don't sit down - you'll have to pay the coperto (cover charge) and service. Most places have menus posted - check what's available and prices and pick something within your budget.

For travel, you can get day passes for the bus and metro system, but it's not that difficult to walk Rome. If you're going on the train, look for the Amica fare - it's a 20% discount on the higher speed trains. You need to buy the ticket at least the day before you go and up to 60 days in advance. These seats sell out pretty fast - they're not always available. There's also a family fare - you can have 3 to 5 people. At least one has to be 12 or younger and at least one adult. The child needs a proof of age. This is a 50% discount for children 12 or less and 20% for the adults.

The rates are cheaper at banks if you exchange in either there or here. However, you can also use your ATM card to withdraw money in euros - an ATM here is called a Bancomat. If your bank reimburses you for out of network fees, like mine does, this is a very good way to go.

Answer 2

an apartment is a good idea - having your own cooking facilities will bring bills down, as you can shop as you would at home and save money on eating out etc

also see if there are transport season tickets in the area (eg tourist passes that last for a month or something)