Europe

Welcome to Italy

Benvenuto in Italia

Nestled boot-like in southern Europe, Italy is an alluring destination filled with beauty and spirit. Capital Rome was, for centuries, the cornerstone of Western civilisation and Italy bears all the hallmarks of a great nation: from its classical architecture and rich cultural heritage to the stunning scenery of its countryside and coastlines, and the unrestrained passion of its people.

At a glance

Visa & passport

Australian citizens holding a valid passport may stay up to 90 days without a visa.

Local customs

Conservative clothes are required when visiting religious buildings. Beachwear should be confined to the beach.

Italians are guided by first impressions, so it is important that you demonstrate propriety and respect when greeting people, especially for the first time.

Languages

Italian, English, French & German

are spoken in the large cities.

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Electricity

220V 50Hz

Travellers’ Secrets

Italian Fare

When it comes to food it’s not just pizza and pasta. Each region of Italy has its own proud culinary traditions, so be sure to savour some authentic Italian cuisine: in Sicily try Tonno alla palermitana, a tuna dish marinated in white wine and lemon juice; in Campania don’t miss Mozzarella in carrozza, fried Mozzarella sandwich; in Tuscany order up Bistecca alla fiorentina, Florentine-style T-bone steak; and on the Riviera enjoy a hearty Buridda seafood stew.

Carnevale fever

If you’re in Venice in the ten days leading up to Lent, you’ll be witness to the exclusive, world-famous spectacle that is Carnevale. Dating back to the 14th century, Carnevale today is an endless parade of masked and costumed party-goers who pose in the piazza by day and head to glittering parties at night.

If you want to get in on the action, head to the marquee at Campo San Maurizio for mask-making demonstrations and a variety of designs for sale.

Lovers of art

Italy is home to some of the finest, and most famous, pieces of artwork in the world, but where can you see what? Milan’s Santa Maria delle Grazie is home to Leonardo da Vinci’s famous mural, The Last Supper. Wildly popular, make sure you book well in advance, up to a month in the summer. The Vatican Museums in Rome house Raphael’s Stanze and Michaelangelo’s stunning ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, and Florence’s Uffizi has Botticelli’s Birth of Venus among many other fabulous pieces.

Eat in the Trastevere District

Italy is well known for its delicious and exhaustive menus, but top chefs from all over the country have declared this district in Rome as their home. Ask strangers in the street for their favourite restaurant in Trastevere and you are likely to get a hundred different answers…why not try a few?

Favourites

Gourmet Favourites

Touring

Delight your senses with these epicurean indulgences...

1. Tastes of Italy

A fun way to combine some of the many highlights of Italy with the flavours and tastes of regional cuisine.

2. Gourmet Tour

Discover the home of some of Italy’s most famous products on this tour; parma ham, parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar, Perugia chocolate and the Ferrari museum.

Activities

Discover the connoisseur in you...

1. Cooking Courses in Rome & Florence7

Where better to learn how to cook Italian food than in Italy itself?

2. Chocolate and Wine Tasting in Florence

A great way to combine wine tasting with a visit to a traditional chocolate maker, where you can truly indulge your taste buds.

3. Gastronomic Tour of Friuli

If you love Italian food and wine, then you will love this tour.

Outdoor Favourites

Touring

Experience the beauty of the Italian countryside...

1. Lake Garda to Milan Cycle Tour

Cycle through stunning scenery from the Lakes District to Milan, the city that sets trends.

2. Tuscan Cycle Path

Discover the unforgettable beauty of Tuscany as you cycle through olive groves and vineyards.

3. Cinque Terre Short Break

Explore the spectacular scenery of this region at your own pace.

Activities

See the sights...

1. Bike tour of Florence

A fun and unique way to discover Florence.

2. Horseback Riding in Tuscany

Ride through vineyards, olive groves and villages before enjoying a delicious Tuscan farmhouse meal.

3. Venice Running Tour

Forget the gym and discover Venice, with a fun 5km run through the city.

Luxury Favourites

Accommodation

Indulge yourself in history and luxury...

1. St George, Rome

A new 5-star luxury boutique hotel with contemporary chic interior design.

2. Relais Santa Croce, Florence

Luxury and refinement are the predominant features of this meticulously restored 18th-century palazzo.

3. Town House Galleria, Milan

The only hotel located in the historical Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and the only 7-star hotel in Italy.

Historical Favourites

Activities

1. Angels & Demons

Lovers of Dan Brown’s book will enjoy this exciting romp through the ‘Eternal City’. The movie will be released in 2009.

2. Monuments of Ancient Rome

A great way to discover some of the wonders of ancient Rome.

3. Uffizi and Vasari Corridor Tour page 39

Discover the private passageway of the Medici and retrace their footsteps along the secret corridor connecting the Uffizi and Pitti Palace.