Traveling to Italy?

Question

I am a female traveling to Italy, with a couple of friends. Has anyone been to Italy, and can you tell me what to expect?

Answer 1

I went by myself to Italy earlier this year and the people are lovely, as long as you try to speak italian - even just asking (in italian) if they speak english.

take the trains - don't bother with a car.  Watch out for pickpockets and crazy drivers in the larger cities.  I totally recommend reading rick steves' Italy guide - good info.  or just check out his website for some cool city tours.

Answer 2

You will be absolutely amazed at all the ruins and outstanding works of art everywhere in in almost everything! Depending on what cities you go to I would have to say that Rome and Florence stick out the most but venturing to the coastal regions is all-inspiring too...Venice,Pompeii,and so many others....so much sights to see and its like walking through a History book! The people are friendly and personable and the shops and food are mouthwatering to your taste buds! Of course while here the great wines of Italy are everywhere and the customs from region to region are splendid!! While in Rome....a must visit is to the Vatican & Sistine Chapel.....even if your a non-believer you will definetely feel something after viewing the incredible frescos and structures of the Vatican city!! The nightlife is electric with clubs and such ....the small shops and cozy cafes that line the main and side streets are great.....bring lots of money with to get all the stuff you want....especially the ladies shops for your handbags,jewelry, etc....tons of hand-made things from silver and gold to custom leather goods....wow!!! When you can look into tours of special sights or events and also try to have travelers cheques to in different values etc...bottomline if you are here for a month you will never have enough of seeing and experiencing Italy.....its remarkable!!

Answer 3

I went to Rome and Venice years ago when I was in my 20's.  I didn't have any problems in general.  Venice is nice and safe. Rome however,  does have some crime.  Mostly you need to be aware of the gypsys.  Groups of children hang around the tourists places like the forum, collesiom, etc and they will try to pick your pocket if you are offgaurd.  Protect your passport and money by carrying it close to your body,  not in your purse or backpack.  Beware of things that are done to distract tourist.  One gypsy through her baby at a crowd of tourist, who naturally raised their hands to catch the baby  as most of us will raise our arms if something is tossed towards us,  while the tourists were distracted,  her companion was picking the pockets of the tourists.  The will do stuff to distract you,  while another robs you,  be aware at all times.

Answer 4

I lived in Turin (Torino) for two years and visited lots of places: Milan, Verona, Venice, Ravenna, Bologna, Naples, Ischia, Amalfi, Sorrento, Salerno, Paestum, etc.  A great idea is to give yourself an extra day or two that you can use to further explore a city you've visited, or just hop off the train in some small town and wander around.  I had a fantastic visit to a little town called Bra, where I attended the world's biggest cheese festival!  Also, don't do a whirlwind tour on your first visit.  Give yourself three full days in Rome and two full days in Florence, plus at least two full days anywhere else you want to visit.  You'll get soooo much more from the experience than  if you're constantly moving from place to place.

Answer 5

I have spent a lot of time in Italy, having gone to college there as well as visiting every year. It's a wonderful country. People are warm and friendly as long as you are the same. It doesn't hurt to keep your phrase book handy. People are more than helpful when you're trying but many people don't speak English, at least not much of it. If you need to contact me offline for more information on places to visit, I'm open to telling you more. Have a great trip! You're about to fall in love with Italy!

Answer 6

If none of you speak any Italian, would be a good idea to pick up at least a little bit.

Your experiences will probably depend a lot on what part of Italy you go to.  

Drivers are real daredevils, especially in Rome, so avoid driving if you can.  Train service was good.

There's a lot to see.  Enjoy.

Answer 7

I lived in Italy for three years.  Keep an open mind and be ready to experience wonderful foods as long as you stay away from the restaurants that are near all the local touristic areas.

SHOP IN FLORENCE!  I envy you!  I would live there if I could!

Also, like 90% of the Italians speak or at min understand English.  When you're trying to negotiate a price on an item, don't let them fool you.  They understand!

Above all..... HAVE FUN!  Hug and kiss (on the cheek!) a cute Italian guy for me!