Planning a trip to Italy can be exciting, delicious (we all know why), and sometimes a bit messy! With so much to see and do, from historic landmarks to mouthwatering gelato stops, it's easy to feel like you're wandering through a maze of options. Finding reliable information can be as challenging as mastering the perfect pasta twirl—sometimes you end up with a mess on your fork.
But it doesn’t have to be that way. In this quick guide to Italy, I’ll walk you through the statistics, essential dos and don'ts, safety tips and more, that’ll help you understand the Mediterranean Gem. Whether you're dreaming of gondola rides in Venice, hunting down the best trattoria in Florence with an Italy tour guide, or simply soaking in the sun along the coast, get ready to turn your Italian adventure into ‘amore at first sight’
All Roads Lead To Italy: A Look At The Nation’s Tourism Statistics
Although it was the 4th most visited country in the world in 2023, Italy has kept the world’s travelers under its spell for decades, with its cultural, social and historic influence. So, how many tourists visit Italy annually? Well in 2023, over 57.3 million tourists arrived across Italy, and despite the nation being deeply affected by the global pandemic in 2020, Italy has remained a staple in the tourism industry. Here's a quick breakdown of yearly visitors from 2018 to 2023.
International Tourist Arrivals To Italy By Year
- 2018 - 61.6 million arrivals
- 2019 - 64.5 million arrivals
- 2020 - 25.2 million arrivals
- 2021 - 26.9 million arrivals
- 2022 - 49.8 million arrivals
- 2023 - 57.3 million arrivals
Tourist Favorites: The Country’s Top Visitors & Cities
Okay, so a lot of travelers have Italy on their ‘must travel’ list, which is no surprise. So let’s check out who visits Italy the most, and where they go. I bet you can guess the latter quite easily.
Italy's Top Visitors By Country
So, which nationality visits Italy the most? In 2023, Germany was the greatest source of international travelers to Italy, with around 12.5 million visitors coming from Deutschland. Compared to 2019’s 13.9 million travelers, it’s a little less, but Germany has continued to be a top visitor for 2020 and 2021. Here are the other top 5 countries for 2023;
- Germany - 12.5 million travelers
- France - 11.2 million travelers
- Austria - 7 million
- Switzerland - 6.4 million
- United Kingdom - 6.2 million
The Eternal Cities: Italy’s Most Visited Regions
In a country with the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world (59 so far), Italy’s cities are teeming with endless wondrous sites. So what part of Italy has the most tourism? As the Italians say, all roads lead to Rome, with over 29 million overnight stays in 2022. Here are the cities that closely follow.
- Rome - 29 million overnight stays
- Venice - 10.9 million overnight stays
- Milan - 10.4 million overnight stays
Italy Tourism Quick Facts
- 57.3 million - The number of international visitors that came to Italy in 2023
- 10.5% - The overall economic output (GDP) that tourism and travel contributed to Italy’s economy in 2023.
- 4th - The position Italy holds on the list of ‘most visited countries in the world’.
- 35th - The position Italy holds on the global list for English proficiency (moderate score), one of the lowest positions in Europe.
Facing Forward: Future Predictions & Recovery For The Beautiful Country
Known as Bel Paese (the beautiful country), Italy has a beautiful future when it comes to tourism. Despite not fully recovering from the pandemic (pre-Covid numbers show a 60 million yearly average), Italy is not far from reaching these numbers yet again. It’s continued to be a popular destination in 2024, with January’s visitors growing by 7.4%, from 4.77 million in 2023 to 5.1 million in the same month of 2024!
So what rank is Italy when it comes to tourism? Italy holds a strong 4th position, just behind the United States, Spain and of course, the most visited country in the world, which is France.
It’s clear to see that international travel is a big deal, but why is tourism so important in Italy? Well, it’s a strong economic pillar, with the travel and tourism industry contributing €215 billion, making up 10.5% of the nation's economic output, and employing 2.97 million people in 2023. So what is the tourism outlook in Italy? Pretty optimistic, though honestly speaking, not without some major issues to overcome.
I’ll give both sides of the tourism coin. On one side, the travel and tourism industry is set to increase the economic contribution to €223.1 billion, and monthly visitors for 2024 are already beating 2023’s numbers. Jobs will also increase by 100,000, but there are some negatives and in the spirit of honest traveling, let’s check those out.
Travel Truth: Overtourism & Local Frustration
You don’t get to be the fourth most traveled destination in the world without having some overtourism problems. Much like Kyoto, Thailand and Paris, here is how massive tourist numbers are frustrating locals and giving Italian officials a lot to deal with.
- Environmental Decay: Venice is severely impacted by overtourism, with large cruise ships and boat traffic contributing to water pollution and erosion of the city’s foundations, adding to its sinking problem. This environmental strain also affects the city's unique ecosystem.
- Housing Crisis: In cities like Florence, short-term rentals have driven up housing prices, pushing locals out of their homes.
- Cultural Erosion: Over catering to tourist palettes, which are quite different from locals, has led to a shift in local economies toward tourism-related businesses, often at the expense of traditional crafts and local culture/food. For instance, in Venice, the local population has halved over the last few decades, and the city risks becoming more of a theme park than a living community.
- Strain on Infrastructure: Popular tourist destinations like Rome and Venice face overcrowding, which puts immense pressure on infrastructure and public services. This also damages historical sites and reduces the overall visitor and local experience.
Responsible Travel Tips For Touring Italy
Okay, so how can you not be part of the problem? These tips are a great starting point.
- Stay in Locally-Owned Accommodations: Opt for family-owned hotels, long-term rental apartments or traditional hotels instead of short-term rentals like Airbnb. This helps support the local economy without contributing to the housing crisis.
- Travel Off-Season: Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) to avoid the peak tourist crowds. This helps remove pressure on local infrastructure and provides a more enjoyable experience. Seriously, boiling in the August heat isn’t fun for anyone.
- Respect Local Customs and Environments: This is universal, but do not litter, follow local regulations, and show respect for cultural norms. For instance, do not swim in Venice's canals or engage in loud, disturbing behavior. Do as locals do.
- Use Sustainable Transportation: Walk, bike, or use public transportation whenever possible. This reduces your carbon footprint and helps lessen the traffic congestion that plagues many tourist-heavy cities.
- Explore Lesser-Known Destinations: Instead of sticking to famous landmarks, explore less crowded areas and smaller towns. This helps distribute tourist numbers more evenly and supports a wider range of local businesses. You can also support a local and gain access to hidden gems at the same time by using a local private tour guide!
All About Italia: The Cities, Foods & Culture That Make Us Fall In Amore
Okay, now to the joys of traveling this unique ‘Boot’. For anyone wondering, why is Italy so popular? The answers are more than I can stuff into this little article, but the destinations, food and history are just the tip of the Italian iceberg (or maybe pizza?).
Rome: Welcome to Rome, the Eternal City! Now, we all know the greatest attractions Rome has to offer. The Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and so on. So let’s take a look at some lesser known spots that still offer the same magic (a little more if you’ve got a local helping you along).
- Coppedè District: A fairy-tale neighborhood featuring whimsical architecture that blends Art Nouveau, Baroque, and Medieval styles. It's a tranquil escape from the busy city center.
- Basilica of San Clemente: This lesser-known basilica offers an intriguing journey through time, with layers of history from a 12th-century church down to a 1st-century Roman house.
- Aventine Hill: Home to the Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) and the famous keyhole view of St. Peter’s Basilica at the Knights of Malta gate.
- Quartiere Garbatella: A charming residential area with picturesque, tree-lined streets and beautiful early 20th-century buildings, offering a glimpse of authentic Roman life.
Venice: There’s simply no other city in the world like Venice. A floating wonder. While famous sites like St. Mark's Square and the Grand Canal are key for a quintessential Venetian experience, for quieter moments, escape to these sites.
- San Francesco del Deserto: A peaceful island monastery in the Venetian Lagoon, accessible only by boat and offering serene gardens and stunning views.
- Torreselle: An ancient, picturesque village in the Venetian countryside, away from the typical tourist paths.
- Libreria Acqua Alta: A quirky bookstore where books are stacked in bathtubs, gondolas, and waterproof bins to protect them from Venice’s frequent flooding.
- Squero di San Trovaso: A small, traditional boatyard where you can watch gondolas being made and repaired, providing a unique glimpse into Venetian craftsmanship.
Florence: Dive into the Renaissance heartland. After you’ve admired Michelangelo's David at the Galleria dell'Accademia, and seen the Florence Cathedral, the Uffizi Gallery and the Ponte Vecchio, check out the quieter corners.
- San Miniato al Monte: A beautiful Romanesque church on a hilltop with breathtaking views of Florence.
- Bardini Gardens: A peaceful, beautifully landscaped garden with fewer crowds than the more famous Boboli Gardens.
- Le Murate: A former prison turned cultural complex with cafés, restaurants, and art exhibitions, offering a unique blend of history and modernity.
- Stibbert Museum: An eclectic museum with a vast collection of arms, armor, and art, set in a picturesque villa surrounded by a lovely park.
Travel Q&A: What is the number one attraction in Italy? That crown goes to the Colosseum, with 9.8 million visitors in 2022!
Naples: A city of contrasts, where ancient history blends with vibrant street life. Once you explored the archaeological wonders of Pompeii, and the bustling Spaccanapoli street, venture to these locales.
- San Lorenzo Maggiore: A church with an underground archaeological site featuring ancient Roman and Greek ruins, less crowded than the more famous sites.
- Pignasecca Market: An authentic, bustling market where you can experience the local Neapolitan lifestyle and taste delicious street food.
- Parco Vergiliano a Piedigrotta: A tranquil park and cemetery where the poet Virgil is said to be buried, offering lovely views and a serene atmosphere.
- Catacombs of San Gennaro: Extensive underground catacombs, offering fascinating insights into early Christian history and burial practices.
Travel Q&A: What is the most walkable city in Italy? That title goes to none other than Florence, aka the City of Lilies! In fact, Florence has consistently been named the most walkable city in the world, winning the title again in 2024. If you’re headed to the Tuscan jewel, carry your most comfortable pair of shoes and start exploring!
Now THAT’S A Good Pizza: Italian Foods You Have To Try!
From the aromatic simplicity of a perfect pizza to the decadent layers of freshly made pasta, Italian cuisine captivates the senses and satisfies the soul. Beyond the classics, Italy also offers daring gastronomic adventures for the curious palate, showcasing a range of unique flavors and textures. Here are six culinary delights and four shockingly tasty foods to try:
Culinary Delights
- Pizza Margherita: A Neapolitan classic featuring a thin, crispy crust topped with vibrant tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves.
- Pasta Carbonara: Indulge in creamy spaghetti tossed with crispy pancetta, Pecorino Romano cheese, and a generous grind of black pepper.
- Gelato: Italy's artisanal answer to ice cream, boasting intense flavors like pistachio, stracciatella, and fragola (strawberry) served in creamy perfection.
- Risotto alla Milanese: Savor the creamy richness of saffron-infused risotto, a specialty of Milan, complemented by Parmesan cheese and a hint of white wine.
- Cannoli Siciliani: Delight in crispy pastry tubes filled with sweetened ricotta cheese and dotted with candied fruits or chocolate chips.
- Tiramisu: Indulge in layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa powder, creating a luscious dessert that embodies Italian sophistication.
For The Adventurous Eater:
- Lampredotto: A Florentine specialty featuring the fourth stomach of a cow, simmered in a savory broth and served in a crusty roll with green sauce.
- Casu Marzu: Hailing from Sardinia, this cheese is infamously known for containing live insect larvae that ferment the cheese, giving it a unique pungent flavor.
- Sanguinaccio Dolce: Found in southern Italy, this sweet delicacy is made from pig's blood, chocolate, sugar, and sometimes cinnamon, creating a unique pudding-like dessert.
- Baccalà Mantecato: A Venetian dish of whipped dried salted cod, olive oil, garlic, and parsley, served as a creamy spread on crusty bread.
Travel food tip: Try out regional delights!
Okay, we all know pizza and gelato are a staple in Italian cuisine, but one thing I urge you to keep in mind is Italy’s diversity! The regions (20) have their own signature dishes, so resist the urge to order pizza everywhere you go, and dig int regional specialties.
Living La Dolce Vita: How To Enjoy Your Time In Italy
With dreams of gelato, lampredotto, Pompeii hidden gems and more in your mind, it’s time to discover how you can make the most of your Italy travels with these daily and seasonal travel tips.
Watching The Weather: When To Travel To Italy & What To Do
I’ll just add one disclaimer here before we dive into things. Italy is HUGE and thanks to its volcanic roots, Italy’s weather and overall landscape is dramatically different (think Amalfi Coast v.s the Dolomites). So make sure you check weather and activities for your specific destination.
Summer (June to August)
Summer in Italy is sizzling and vibrant. From sun-soaked beaches to bustling piazzas, it’s a feast for the senses.
- North: Warm to hot, great for hiking and lake activities.
- Central: Hot and sunny, with temperatures often reaching the 30s°C (90s°F).
- South: Very hot, perfect for beach lovers but intense for city sightseeing.
- Crowds: High. This is peak tourist season, especially in July and August.
Things to Do
Do: Enjoy outdoor festivals, beach days in the south, and boat rides on northern lakes.
Avoid: Major tourist attractions around midday. Also, steer clear of unshaded ruins in the heat of the day unless you enjoy feeling like a baked lasagna.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is Italy’s golden season, with stunning foliage, cooler temperatures, and harvest festivals galore.
- North: Cool and crisp, great for wine tasting and scenic drives.
- Central: Mild and comfortable, perfect for exploring historic cities.
- South: Still warm, with fewer tourists and ideal swimming conditions.
- Crowds: Moderate to low. September sees some tourists, but by October, it’s much quieter.
Things to Do
Do: Visit vineyards during harvest, enjoy truffle hunting in Piedmont, and explore coastal towns with fewer crowds.
Avoid: Hiking in the north without checking the weather; it can get chilly fast.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in Italy is a time for cozying up with a good book and a cup of cioccolata calda. It’s less crowded, colder, but oh-so-charming.
- North: Cold, with snowfall in the Alps, perfect for skiing and winter sports.
- Central: Cool and wet, great for museum visits and indoor activities.
- South: Mild, with occasional rain, ideal for off-season exploration.
- Crowds: Low. Except around Christmas and New Years, when festive markets and celebrations draw more visitors.
Things to Do
Do: Hit the ski slopes in the north, visit museums and historical sites in the center, and explore the quieter coastal towns in the south.
Avoid: Beach trips in the north and center—unless you enjoy icy dips!
Best Time to Visit
When to Go: Late spring (April to early June) and early autumn (September to early October). These periods offer mild weather and manageable crowds across all regions.
When to Avoid: Mid-summer (July and August) if you dislike heat and large crowds. Also, be cautious around Christmas and New Year’s if you prefer quieter travels. Pack according to the season and region, plan wisely, and enjoy Italy’s diverse and enchanting offerings all year round!
Getting Around The Boot: The Best Transport Methods In Italia
Navigating Italy is an adventure in itself, with each mode of transport offering its own unique charm. Here’s how to move around like a savvy traveler and make the most of your Italian escapade:
Walking:
Best for: Exploring charming city centers, discovering hidden gems, and working off all that gelato.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes. Cobbled streets are picturesque but murder on your feet if yo have flip flops, high heels, or shoes that don’t support your arches and ankles.
Buses and Trams:
Best for: Getting around cities and reaching those out-of-the-way spots.
Tip: Always validate your ticket. Those little machines are the guardians of public transport order.
Metro
Best for: Zipping through major cities like Rome, Milan, and Naples.
Tip: Avoid rush hour unless you enjoy being a sardine.
Trains:
Best for: Traveling between cities and soaking in the scenic countryside.
Tip: Book in advance for the best prices and consider high-speed trains for longer journeys—they're a game changer.
Biking:
Best for: Exploring smaller towns and countryside routes.
Tip: Always use designated bike paths and wear a helmet. Italian drivers are, let’s say, enthusiastic.
Scooters:
Best for: Feeling like a local in cities like Rome or Florence.
Tip: Only for the brave! Italian traffic can be a wild ride.
Private Car and Tour:
Best for:The best way to travel with a car in Italy is by leaving it to the professionals! Driving is wild otherwise! A personalized, stress-free exploration of Italy's finest is the way to go with a hired car.
Tip: Let GoWithGuide handle the driving and itinerary. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as a local guide reveals Italy’s best-kept secrets.
Italy’s Social Ecosystem: Dos & Don’ts For A Pleasant Stay
I can’t say this enough. Whatever stereotype you have of Italian people, leave it at the airport terminal when you land here. Italy is diverse, and so are its social rules. These can help you start things on the right foot.
Dos:
- Do Remember Italy is Diverse: Italy is a patchwork of regions, each with its own unique culture, cuisine, and traditions. Don’t expect the same experience in Venice as you would in Naples. Embrace the variety!
- Do Embrace Aperitivo Culture: When in Italy, do as the Italians do—enjoy an aperitivo. It’s the perfect pre-dinner ritual of drinks and snacks. Think of it as your cultural duty to sample as many spritzes and olives as possible.
- Do Expect Constant Scaffolding: Major attractions like the Colosseum and the Leaning Tower of Pisa often have scaffolding due to continuous upkeep. Consider it a sign that they’re loved and cared for, and take your pictures creatively.
- Do Travel by Train: The train system in Italy is efficient and scenic. Sit back, relax, and let the countryside roll by. Plus, it’s a great way to avoid the stress of driving in bustling city centers.
Don'ts:
- Don’t Expect Perfect Punctuality: Italians are known for their relaxed approach to time. Trains might be late, and dinner reservations are more of a guideline. Just go with the flow and embrace the dolce vita.
- Don’t Forget to Validate Your Ticket: When taking the train or bus, make sure to validate your ticket before boarding. Those little yellow or green machines are your friends—ignore them at your own risk (and wallet).
- Don’t Rush Your Meals: Eating in Italy is an experience, not a pit stop. Savor each course, sip your wine slowly, and linger over coffee. Fast food is a travesty in the land of culinary art.
- Don’t Expect Free Water: Unlike some places, water isn’t automatically free in Italian restaurants. Be prepared to pay for bottled water, and embrace the local habit of asking for “acqua frizzante” (sparkling) or “acqua naturale” (still).
Embrace these dos and don’ts, and your Italian adventure will be delightful and rewarding. Buon viaggio!
Okay, now that you know what you need to know to get the most out of your Italy trip planning phase, it’s time for the real gem. Making it all easier by hiring a local Italian guide to ease the process.
Beyond the well-trodden paths, Italy hides a tapestry of stories, flavors, and history waiting to be uncovered. Whether you're navigating the busy streets of Rome or savoring the culinary delights of Florence, a guide can turn your journey into an easy-going adventure with;
- Insider Knowledge: You’ll gain access to hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions that only locals know about.
- Historical Context: Italy’s history can be overwhelming. With a local, you’ll understand the rich history behind iconic landmarks with expert commentary.
- Cultural Immersion: You’ll dive deeper into Italian culture through personalized recommendations for dining, shopping, and local experiences.
- Time Efficiency: You shouldn’t spend most of your travel day trying to navigate/ Maximize your time by skipping lines at popular attractions and navigating efficiently through bustling cities with a locals' knowledge.
- Safety and Comfort: Travel with peace of mind knowing you have a knowledgeable companion who speaks the language and understands local customs, places to avoid, and safe routes.
Conclusion
Ready to discover Italy like never before? Book a tour with an Italy tour guide today and embark on a journey filled with history, culture, and unforgettable moments!
