Whether you’ve never been or you’re looking to visit again, there’s never a shortage of experiences in Italy. While the main tourist towns continue to be popular, lesser known areas are beginning to attract more attention. Here’s some food for thought to consider for your 2023 trip to Italy.
When To Visit & How Long To Stay
Some may argue that there’s no bad time to visit Italy, and we tend to agree. But there are some factors to mull over before choosing your travel dates.
Choosing when to visit Italy depends on a number of factors, including weather, crowds, budget, and your ideal itinerary.
Did it feel like everyone on social media was in Italy this summer? Because they definitely were. High season (May-September) is great for weather, but not great for avoiding crowds and high prices.
If you’re less interested in the coast and more interested in the wine regions, visiting in spring and fall will yield a better experience.
If budget is the driving force behind your travel dates, and you’re not overly concerned with having perfectly sunny warm weather everyday, winter is a fantastic time to visit cities like Rome and Florence.
If you’ve checked off the major “first-time visitor” cities, consider exploring smaller towns and villages for a new perspective and fewer crowds.
If you’re hoping to visit multiple areas of Italy, 10 nights is a great starting point.
What to Know: The Highlights
Passports are required for entry, though visas are not required for U.S. travelers.
Most first time itineraries include stops in Rome, Florence, and along the Amalfi coast, but Italy has much more to offer, especially for those who are repeat visitors.
It’s not all history and wine – Italy is a perfect fit for travelers looking for a unique itinerary. Truffle hunting in Siena, gondola rides in Venice, skiing in the Dolomites, boating on Lake Como, olive oil tasting in Puglia… the list goes on and on.
While spontaneous wandering sounds romantic and exciting, having most tours and activities pre-planned will enhance your experience throughout your itinerary.
Prepare to dine late into the night – most restaurants don’t open until 7pm or later for dinner service, so plan accordingly.
When to Begin Planning
For such a diverse and complex destination, the earlier you begin planning your Italian getaway, the better. If popular spots, such as the Amalfi coast, are on your wish list, 6-12 months in advance is a good timeframe to begin planning.
Why You Need An Advisor for Italy
Just because “everyone” goes to Rome or Tuscany, that doesn’t mean you should. Matching a client’s wish list and interests to the perfect location in Italy is incredibly important for a good experience. Furthermore, there are dozens of hidden gems and off-the-beaten path experiences that many travel blogs and friends of friends won’t mention – and shouldn’t those be on your itinerary?