Exclusive Travel Guide

Everything You Need to Plan Solo Trips to Italy!

I first started traveling to Italy in 2009, and I haven’t been able to stop since. I’ve hit all the famous spots—Rome, Florence, Milan, Naples—but I’ve also wandered through smaller towns like Polignano a Mare and Monopoli, discovering the side of Italy most tourists miss.

A lot of my travels to Italy have been solo, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that Italy is one of the best places to explore on your own.

Italy has a way of pulling you in—with its history, culture, and the kind of food that ruins you for life (because let’s be honest, nothing ever tastes the same after eating pasta in Italy). From the grand Colosseum to the ridiculously picturesque Amalfi Coast, this country is full of those pinch-me moments.

This guide is here to help you experience the best of Italy—whether you’re an art lover, a foodie, a history nerd, or just someone who wants to soak up the magic of this place!

Table of Contents

What you’ll find here

To best navigate this page, I created a table of contents below:

Destination guides Things to Do Best Time to Visit My Travel Tips
Google Maps Common Questions Best Travel Apps Travel books

Hi, I’m Melissa

Your go-to girl for all things solo travel

I’ve been solo traveling through Europe since 2009, with Italy being one of the places I return to again and again. Now in my 40s, I’ve explored iconic cities and hidden gems, learning how to navigate, stay safe, and embrace the freedom of solo travel. I even host small group trips! If you’re curious about traveling Europe solo, check out my guide.

solo travel Europe
Melissa with shoulder-length brown hair walks down a cobblestone street in Rome, Italy, bathed in warm sunlight. She wears a flowing white button-up shirt and a long blue skirt, carrying a woven straw hat in one hand and a black tote bag over her shoulder. Her gaze is directed to the side, with the breeze gently tousling her hair. Behind her, an old brick building with a small religious shrine featuring an ornate metal grate, flowers, and an 'Ave Maria' plaque is visible. The surrounding buildings have rustic charm with aged facades, wooden shutters, and traditional Roman architecture.
Ciao!

The Best of Italy

Foods to Try

Cacio e pepe, arancini

Drinks to try

Aperol Spritz, Limoncello

Best Spots to Relax

Saturnia hot springs

Best Beaches

Baia delle Zagare in Puglia

Hidden Gems

Civita di Bagnoregio

Best Ways to Get Around

Trains

Must-Have Experiences

Truffle hunting in Umbria

Historic Landmarks to See

Valley of the Temples in Sicily

When to Visit Italy

  • Spring: Delightfully mild and pleasant. Southern Italy enjoys temperatures between 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F), while the north experiences a range from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F).
  • Summer: Warm to hot across the country. Southern Italy sees temperatures from 22°C to 35°C (72°F to 95°F), often tempered by coastal breezes. In the north, temperatures vary from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F).
  • Autumn: Mild to warm, perfect for witnessing the fall foliage. In the south, temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), whereas in the north, they range from 13°C to 20°C (55°F to 68°F).
  • Winter: Cool and occasionally rainy. In the southern regions, temperatures range from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F). In the northern regions, expect colder weather with temperatures from 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F).

Travel Tips For Italy

Scams

Beware of scams in Italy, especially in the south and Sicily. Always confirm prices before ordering, especially for fish or meat by weight. Check your bill, as extra charges may be added.

Safety

I never felt unsafe in Italy, but I was always mindful of my belongings. Pickpocketing is common, especially in big cities like Rome, Milan, Naples, and Florence, particularly in tourist hotspots and public transport.

Cash & Card

Credit cards are widely accepted in Italy, but cash is still preferred in small shops, markets, and local restaurants. Always carry some euros, especially in smaller towns or for tips.

Grab the Google Map

Bologna

Milan

City of Verona from above

Verona

This image depicts a beautiful coastal scene, with a small cove featuring clear turquoise water and a beach nestled between rocky cliffs. The beach is populated with sunbathers, and the surrounding area has traditional white and beige buildings, likely part of a historic town. The overall atmosphere suggests a Mediterranean coastal location, perfect for swimming and relaxation.

Puglia

A peaceful garden next to a historic church in Catania, Italy, featuring a statue of a religious figure holding a cross. The manicured greenery, palm trees, and classic architecture, including the domes and ornate details of the church, create a serene and picturesque atmosphere under a bright blue sky.

Catania

Historic old church in Taormina old town.

Taormina

Exclusive Travel Guides for Italy

Here, you’ll find my best Italy guides, tips, and itineraries to help you plan your trip with ease and confidence.

Exclusive Guides

Bari

Exclusive Guides

Bologna

Exclusive Guides

Milan

Exclusive Guides

Monopoli

Exclusive Guides

Naples

Exclusive Guides

Rome

Exclusive Guides

Sicily

Exclusive Guides

Sirmione

Exclusive Guides

Venice

Exclusive Guides

Verona

Questions Everyone Always Asks…

Yes! Tap water in Italy is safe to drink in most places, including cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan. In fact, you’ll find free-flowing public fountains (called nasoni in Rome) where you can refill your bottle with fresh, clean water.

However, in some rural areas or older buildings, locals may prefer bottled water due to taste or old plumbing. If you’re on an island or in the countryside, it’s always good to check with your accommodation.

Pro Tip: If you see a sign that says “Acqua Non Potabile,” that means the water isn’t safe to drink. Otherwise, drink up and save on bottled water!

In my experience, you are going to be limited when it comes to vegan options in Italy. Big cities like Rome and Florence have a lot more options, but in the smaller cities, dairy is very present. You can always get pasta with red sauce, and salads.

In Italy, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a service charge might be included in the bill, but if it is not, rounding up the total or leaving a few euros is a courteous gesture.

Florence, Bologna, Verona, Turin, and Trento are among the safest cities for solo female travelers. They are walkable, well-lit, and have a welcoming atmosphere. As always, stay aware of pickpockets in tourist areas.

No, but it helps! In major cities and tourist areas, many people speak English. However, learning a few basic Italian phrases can make interactions smoother and show respect for the local culture.

Trains are the best option! Italy’s high-speed trains connect major cities quickly and comfortably, while regional trains and buses make smaller towns accessible. In cities, walking is ideal, but public transport and taxis are available. Renting a car is great for countryside exploration but not necessary for most trips.



Best Travel Apps for Italy

  • Google Maps- For navigation and finding your way around cities and rural areas. Don’t forget to download offline maps.
  • Trenitalia– The official app for Italy’s regional train services, as well as other nearby countries.
  • Duolingo -A language learning app with games and quizzes to pick up basic Italian phrases.
  • XE Currency– For easy currency conversion, helping you keep track of your expenses.
  • The Fork – To discover the best local restaurants and make reservations.

Italy Travel Resource Books

Rick Steves

Italian Phrase Book

SHOP NOW

Rick Steves

Itay for Food Lovers

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Dk Eyewitness

Europe By Train

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A lively group of travelers poses joyfully in front of ancient Greek ruins under a vibrant blue sky. Their energy and smiles reflect the excitement of exploring historical landmarks together.

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