ABOUT ITALY

Italy, a captivating destination in Southern Europe, is celebrated for its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, making it one of the world's most beloved places to visit. From the ancient monuments of Rome to the Renaissance art in Florence, Italy seamlessly intertwines centuries of history with a lively, modern atmosphere. Whether you're drawn to iconic art, delicious cuisine, or stunning scenery, Italy promises a diverse array of experiences for every type of traveller.

Rome, the country’s capital, is a haven of ancient wonders. The Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon stand as monumental reminders of the Roman Empire's grandeur. Within the city, Vatican City offers a spiritual experience, where visitors can admire St. Peter’s Basilica and gaze upon Michelangelo's masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel. After a day of exploration, you can savour authentic Roman dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe at a cosy trattoria.

Florence, known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, is an art lover’s paradise. The Uffizi Gallery showcases masterpieces by da Vinci, Botticelli, and Michelangelo, while the city’s skyline is dominated by the majestic Duomo. As you stroll through Florence’s historic streets, you’ll find countless shops, boutiques, and cafes offering local Tuscan flavours. Nearby, the Chianti region invites wine lovers to sample its famous vintages in the heart of rolling vineyards. Venice, with its winding canals and ornate palaces, offers a uniquely enchanting experience. A gondola ride along its famous waterways, alongside visits to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, immerses you in the grandeur of Venice’s past. Iconic spots like the Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco are perfect for soaking in the city’s one-of-a-kind ambience.

Travelling north, Milan is Italy’s fashion hub, celebrated for its luxury shopping districts like Via Montenapoleone and world-renowned fashion events. Milan also preserves its historic treasures, from Da Vinci’s The Last Supper to the grand Duomo di Milano, one of Europe’s most stunning cathedrals.

For relaxation and scenic beauty, the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre offer dramatic cliffs, colourful coastal towns, and sweeping sea views. The islands of Sicily and Sardinia are equally enticing, with pristine beaches, unique cultural traditions, and fascinating historical sites. Sicily's Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest active volcano, and the ancient ruins in Agrigento offer unique experiences for history and nature enthusiasts alike.

Italy’s northern regions, such as the Dolomites and the Italian Alps, provide outdoor adventures year-round. In winter, you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding, while summer brings hiking, cycling, and some of the most stunning mountain views on the continent.

Italian cuisine is a major attraction, with each region offering its specialties. The north is known for risotto and polenta, while central Italy serves up beloved pasta dishes like spaghetti alla carbonara and bistecca alla Fiorentina. The south is famous for Naples' iconic pizza and Sicily's seafood and sweet treats, like cannoli.

Italy’s festivals and traditions add even more allure to its cultural landscape. From the Venice Carnival to the Palio di Siena, and countless food and wine festivals throughout the year, Italy’s calendar is filled with events that showcase its vibrant heritage.

Whether wandering through the art-filled streets of Florence and Rome or soaking in the scenic beauty of Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast, Italy offers travellers an unforgettable journey. With its rich history, diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and world-famous cuisine, Italy is a destination that captivates and leaves a lasting impression.

Entry requirements for Italy

If you’re a citizen of an EU country, travelling to Italy is straightforward. As part of the Schengen Zone, Italy allows EU citizens to enter without a visa or passport—an ID card from your home country is all you need.

Currency information

Italy uses the euro (€) as its official currency. Most shops and restaurants accept major credit and debit cards from international networks. However, if you plan to rent a car, be sure to bring a credit card, as debit cards are typically not accepted for car rentals. ATMs are widely available, but it’s best to use those operated by banks to avoid high fees, as private ATMs, such as Euronet, can charge up to €10 or 10% per withdrawal.

Electricity and plugs

The standard electrical current in Italy is 230 V AC at 50 Hz, similar to most of continental Europe. Plugs in Italy are typically type C, featuring two round pins, so you may need an adapter if you’re travelling from a country with different plug types.

Mobile services in Italy

Italy’s major mobile providers include TIM, Vodafone, Wind Tre, and Iliad, offering easy access to SIM cards at airports, mobile shops, and kiosks with an ID. EU/EEA citizens benefit from "Roam Like at Home" regulations, using their home mobile plans in Italy without extra charges. Travellers from outside the EU/EEA should check international roaming rates with their providers or consider a local SIM card for more favourable terms. Italy offers extensive 4G LTE coverage, with 5G expanding in larger cities. If you need data and don’t have an EU-based SIM, apps like Airalo provide convenient eSIM options.

Important numbers

• Country Code: +39
• Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 112
• Fire Brigade: 115
• Medical Emergency: 118
• Roadside Assistance (ACI - Automobile Club d'Italia): +39 803 116
• Imola Hospital (S. Maria della Scaletta): +39 0542 662111
• Taxi Service Imola: +39 0542 28122

Fascinating Facts about Italy

Birthplace of the Renaissance
Florence is where the Renaissance began, influencing European art, science, and culture from the 14th to the 17th century.

UNESCO World Heritage Leader
With over 55 UNESCO sites, Italy has more than any other country, including landmarks like the Colosseum, Venice, and the historical centres of Florence and Rome.

Pioneers of Modern Banking
Italy is home to Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena, the world’s oldest still-operating bank, established in 1472 during the Renaissance.

Iconic Cuisine
Italian dishes like pasta, pizza, and gelato have earned worldwide fame, with each region showcasing unique culinary traditions.

Vatican City
As the smallest country, the Vatican serves as the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church and the Pope’s residence.

Legendary Vehicles
Italy is known for luxury cars like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati, and iconic motorcycles like Ducati.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa
This famous structure began tilting during its 12th-century construction due to unstable soil, and although it has been stabilised, it still leans today.

Opera’s Origin
Italy birthed opera in the late 16th century, and the country remains an opera hub with renowned theatres like Milan’s La Scala.

Mount Etna
Located in Sicily, Mount Etna is Europe’s tallest and most active volcano, with eruptions dating back over 2,500 years.

Italy’s Boot Shape
Italy’s distinctive boot-shaped outline makes it one of the most recognizable countries on the map.