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Can I go to Italy? The rules for travelling from the UK

By Abigail Malbon and Becky Lucas

International travel is officially back. Since Monday 17 May 2021, travelling abroad from the UK for non-essential reasons has been legal again, albeit with some rules in place. Italy is not on any UK travel red list , but what does that mean if you’ve booked a trip there for the coming weeks?

What rules are in place for those returning to the UK from Italy right now? 

As of 18 March 2022, all Covid travel rules in the UK have been lifted, which means that travellers do not need to test, quarantine or fill in a passenger locator form upon return from Italy, regardless of their vaccination status. 

What are the entry requirements for Italy?

On 1 June, all Covid rules for travel were lifted in Italy. This means that Italy does not require any proof of vaccination, a negative test result or a Covid-19 recovery certificate to enter the country, regardless of your vaccination status.

However, all passengers entering Italy by plane, ferry, train or coach must still wear an FFP2 mask in order to enter the country.

Since Sunday 1 May 2022, those visiting Italy no longer have to fill out a passenger locator form, or be in possession of a Health Pass in order to enter restaurants, bars and other venues. A Green Pass, showing proof of vaccination, a negative test result or recent Covid recovery, is still required in order to enter the country, as well as to access hospitals and other healthcare settings (children aged 11 and under are not required to present a Green Pass). The NHS Covid Pass digital certificate with QR code is accepted as a Green Pass. 

What type of mask do I need to fly to Italy?

Those who have flown to Italy recently will be aware that a specific type of mask is required before you can board a flight; an FFP2 mask . This will be required to fly until at least Wednesday 15 June 2022. 

Certified FFP2 masks come with instructions on how to wear them by the manufacturer and feature multiple layers of non-woven material and a nose wire to ensure a proper fit with no leaks. 

What are the restrictions in Italy right now?

Domestic and international travel is permitted in Italy. Since Sunday 1 May, a Super Green Pass is no longer required in order to enter services or businesses within Italy. Face masks are now only required in some settings, such as on public transport, in all health care facilities and in cinemas, until at least Wednesday 15 June 2022.

We recommend always checking the rules on the UK government website before travelling, sticking closely to health guidelines and being sure to buy travel insurance with Covid cover . 

Where to stay: For sunshine and beaches, a relaxing trip to Sicily can’t be beaten. If you’re looking for a city break, Milan ’s Hotel Principe di Savoia is an institution. What to do : How about a dreamy road trip around Italy ? Whether you want to cruise along the Amalfi Coast or travel cross-country through the Alps, these are the very best road trips in Italy to plan.

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Entry requirements and visas for british citizens from 1 january 2021.

• Data pubblicazione: 17 Dicembre 2020
• Tipologia: News

Short Stay visas

In accordance with the provisions of the EU Regulation 2019/592, starting from 1 January 2021 (the end of the transition period) the United Kingdom will be added to Annex II of the EU regulation 2018/1806.

British citizens will therefore not need a Schengen short-stay visa to spend up to 90 days in Italy within a period of 180 days.

This exemption also applies to the following categories of British citizen:

• ”British National Overseas”; • “British Overseas Territories Citizen”(BOTC) – including Anguilla, Bermuda, Gibraltar, Cayman Islands, Falkland Islands, South Georgia Island, South Sandwich Islands, Pitcairn Islands, Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha, Turks and Caicos Islands, British Virgin Islands, British Antarctic Territory and British Indian Ocean Territory; • British Overseas Citizen (BOC); • British Protected Persons (BPP); • British Subjects (BS).

The exemption from the requirement for a short-stay visa will also apply in cases where British citizens enter Italy to perform paid work, subject to reciprocal arrangements for Italian citizens in the U.K. In the case of British citizens entering Italy to undertake paid work, there is a separate requirement to apply for a residence permit within eight working days of entering Italy.

Other Schengen visa exemption under ex art. 6 Reg 2018/1806 will be applied to the following traveller’s categories:

• Third country nationals subject to visa requirement, residing in the UK, travelling as part of a school trip as members of a group of school pupils accompanied by a teacher from the school in question; • Recognized refugees and stateless persons, resident in the UK in possession of a travel document issued by the British authorities.

Long Stay visas

Starting from 1 January 2021, British citizens planning to stay in Italy for more than 90 days (‘long stay’) within 180 days, will be subject to National visas requirements according to the Italian immigration rules applied to third country nationals.

Starting now, British citizens may submit a Long Stay visa application for entry on 1 January 2021 or later, if applying for the following purposes:

• Study • Religious purposes • Mission • Elective residency

The submission of applications for National visas subject to the “Nulla Osta” (entry clearance) from the “Sportello Unico per l’Immigrazione” (Unified Immigration Desk) will be possible exclusively after the 1st January 2021.

The above mentioned procedure applies for Long stay visas for the following purposes: – work (including sport related activities and research) – family reunion and adoption – investors and start-up – conversion of residence permits originally issued for study or traineeship purposes.

To get more information, please visit the website of the Italian Minister of Interior. https://www.interno.gov.it/it/temi/immigrazione-e-asilo/modalita-dingresso/sportello-unico-limmigrazione

British and EU Family Member resident in the UK

As of 1 January 2021, EU free movement law no longer applies apply to and in the UK, including for EU citizens and their family members residing in the UK.

Third Country National family members of UK nationals will have to fulfil all the rules of the Visa Code applicable to third‑country nationals.

If they are not holding a visa and they intend to apply in order to travel as of 1 January 2021, they must apply for a short stay visa under the general rules applicable to third-country nationals in accordance with the Visa Code. If they already have a visa issued, they will need to fulfil, in addition, the entry conditions applicable to third-country nationals.

Third Country National family members of EU citizens residing in the UK will have to apply for a visa if they intend to travel to Italy. Please note:

• Residence cards issued by the UK under Directive 2004/38/EC to family members of EU citizens residing in the UK will no longer have visa exempting effect • Residence cards issued by the UK under the EU Settlement Scheme to family members of EU citizens residing in the UK do not have visa exempting effect.

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What you need to know about traveling to Italy right now

Aug 23, 2021 • 6 min read

Tourists return to the Teatro Antico in Taormina, Sicily as Italy relaxes border and domestic restrictions © Fabrizio Villa/Getty Images

Italy has gradually relaxed border controls and most restrictions as travelers return to one of the world's most popular destinations. And while there are plenty of new attractions to enjoy, from newly-opened secret tunnels in the Colosseum to recent discoveries in Pompeii , it isn't business as usual. Italy is still in a state of emergency and some pandemic-related restrictions apply, including the requirement of a green pass to enter indoor venues and large events.

With the ongoing threat of the Delta variant, travelers are warned that increased measures could be enforced with little notice. If you're planning a trip to Italy this year, here's what you can expect.

Can I travel to Italy from the EU?

Italy has adopted the EU digital COVID certificate which facilitates the return of free movement across the bloc. It's a digital or paper certificate that indicates the holder meets the conditions for travel: is fully vaccinated (the last dose administered at least 14 days before departure), or has recovered from COVID-19, or holds a negative COVID-19 result from a PCR or antigen test taken within 48 hours of travel.

Read more: Planning your perfect trip to Italy's Amalfi Coast

You will need to present this cert to enter Italy, regardless of where you are traveling from in the EU. That's because Italy does not classify risk areas in accordance with the EU's recommendations and currently no country is classified as low risk. So even if you are coming from an EU country that is classified green (low risk) in the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control’s traffic light system, you are still required to present a digital COVID cert to travel to Italy.

Can I travel to Italy from a non-EU country?

Italy applies border restrictions on travelers depending on the COVID situation in the country they are departing from. Most countries are on the C and D list and quarantine restrictions apply to all of them except for the US, Canada, Japan and Israel . People arriving from those countries are permitted to skip quarantine provided they present proof of vaccination, proof of recovery from COVID-19, or a negative result from a test taken no more than 72 hours before traveling to Italy, using official vaccination or medical documents issued in either of those countries.

Those arriving from the UK will have to undergo a five-day quarantine upon arrival with mandatory testing until at least August 30.

Entry restrictions for individual countries can be found here .

What vaccines does Italy accept?

Italy requires that travelers are fully vaccinated with both doses of an EMA-approved vaccine: Pfizer, Moderna, or AstraZeneca; or with the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

Do children need to be vaccinated to enter Italy?

Children under six-years-old are exempt from all vaccine, testing or quarantine requirements in Italy. However, children between the age of six and 18 are required to present a negative COVID-19 test result before arrival.

What else is required?

All arrivals are required to fill in a passenger locator form before arrival, regardless of their COVID status or point of departure.

Do I need a green pass in Italy?

Yes, if you want to enjoy most of Italy's cultural attractions, you'll need a green pass. The pass proves that the holder has been vaccinated, has recovered from COVID-19 or has recently tested negative for the virus. People need to present it to enter indoor spaces such as museums, football stadiums, gyms, theme parks, spas, swimming pools and theaters. It's also required to sit indoors at bars and restaurants; and from September 1, it will be required to board public transport in Italy.

Anyone traveling from another EU country, can present their EU digital COVID cert wherever the green pass is required. People traveling from a Schengen Zone country can present their official health documents too.

The Italian government confirmed that it will accept official COVID documents that were issued in Canada, the US, the UK, Japan and Israel from tourists too in place of a green pass. This was later extended to cover all official vaccination certificates that are compliant with Italian or EU guidelines. In order for it to be accepted in lieu of the green pass, the certificate must be in Italian, English, Spanish or French and contain the following information: type of vaccine (Pfizer, Moderna, J&J or AstraZeneca), date of doses and lot number, as well as the person's name and the name of the medical authority issuing the certificate.However, despite the guidelines, some tourists have reported difficulty with having their certificates accepted at venues.

If you're not vaccinated, you'll need to be tested via a PCR or antigen test within the previous 48 hours.

Read more: Italy has expanded the use of it 'green pass' - here's what travelers need to know

Can I get tested in Italy?

Many countries, including the US, require passengers to present a negative COVID-19 test result before boarding their flight home from an international trip. Fortunately, tests are widely available across Italy in pharmacies, labs and testing centers. Antigen tests cost approximately €20, while PCR tests are generally around €65.

The Red Cross has pop-up testing sites in train stations across Italy , including Roma Termini, Milano Centrale, Venice Santa Lucia and Florence Santa Maria Novella for antigen tests. On-site testing is available at Italy's major airports too, and most offer both antigen and PCR tests but check the website of the airport you are traveling through in advance for details.

Read more: Italy visa requirements

What's open in Italy?

Italy is home to many of the world's greatest works of art, architecture and gastronomy, and has more Unesco World Heritage cultural sites than any other country. Among its popular attractions are Pompeii , where visitors can walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans, and Ravenna , home to glittering Byzantine treasures. The gondolas of Venice take in the famous Rialto Bridge , while Rome is home to St Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum, as well as the iconic Trevi Fountain.

Thankfully, you can experience these sites with relative ease as all Italian regions are now classified as "white zones". Italy classifies its regions into colored areas based on the epidemiological risk; different restrictions apply, depending on the color. White zones are very low-risk zones. Most restrictions have been lifted but social distancing guidelines remain in place in public areas, as do mask requirements in crowded outdoor places, on public transport and in indoor public spaces.

Indoor dining has returned to Italy's restaurants, cafes, bars, ice-cream parlours and pastry shops. Some capacity limits apply but the general rule is no more than six people per table. Anyone who wishes to eat inside will need to show proof of vaccination, recovery from COVID-19 or a recent negative test. Hotels, spas and swimming pools are open, as well as beaches but visitors must keep at least one meter apart when setting up towels, deck chairs or umbrellas.

Museums and cultural attractions are open for walk-ins with capacity limits Monday to Friday and for those with pre-booked tickets on weekends. Cinemas, theaters and concert halls are generally open at 50% capacity. Again, remember to bring your vaccination card if you're planning to visit any museum or cultural attraction in Italy.

For a full breakdown of restrictions per region, see here .

This article was first published on May 5 and updated on August 23, 2021.

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Can I travel to Italy? The entry requirements explained

Find out what tests you need to take, which forms you need to fill in and whether you need to be vaccinated to go on holiday in italy.

T he land of la dolce vita has been readier than most to put in Covid-related restrictions, but as long as you can travel there without quarantine, you’ll find a country that never fails to enchant even in the most difficult times. Furthest north is snow-capped Alpine peaks and wooden chalets, while in the south Sicily serves dishes that show kinship with not-so-distant North Africa. In between these goalposts, the whole Italian game plays out, where you could find yourself driving a classic car to a villa at the end of a line of cypress trees, taking a motorboat across the lakes, or enjoying aperitivi on a piazza right out of the Renaissance.

But how easy is it to go to Italy right now? Here’s everything you need to know about pre-departure testing, entry requirements and travel restrictions.

Main photo: Vernazza, on Italy’s Ligurian coast (Getty Images)

What are Italy’s travel restrictions?

From June 1, Italy has relaxed all of its travel rules around Covid. All travellers now don’t need to present any evidence of vaccination, certificate of recovery or negative test result, bringing it in line with other European nations.

However, one key restriction remains: all passengers entering Italy via ferry, train or coach must wear a FFP2 mask until at least September 30. The requirement for those arriving by plane to wear a FFP2 mask has been scrapped.

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It is still recommended for all visitors over the age of five to wear masks in all indoor public spaces.

For other details about Italy, see the UK Foreign Office’s Italy travel advice section .

Can I visit if I’m unvaccinated?

Yes. All restrictions were dropped from June 1, and all inbound travellers aren’t required to show proof of vaccination.

What are the Covid rules once there?

Having been the first European country to be badly hit by Covid, Italy has been understandably strict in its ongoing requirements to use face masks indoors. In many indoor settings, including flights to and from Italy, face masks must be FFP2/N95 standard, not surgical or cloth masks. This is set to continue until at least June 15.

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United Kingdom

Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

United kingdom - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in the United Kingdom due to terrorism.

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in the United Kingdom. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

There is also a risk of isolated violence by dissident groups in Northern Ireland, focused primarily on police and military targets.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to the United Kingdom.

If you decide to travel to the United Kingdom:

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and Twitter.com/Travelgov
• Review the  Country Security Report  for the United Kingdom.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel and return to the United States.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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Must be valid for the duration of your stay in the United Kingdom   (If you have onward travel to countries outside the United Kingdom, you should check the passport validity requirements for each additional country on their respective information pages.)

Must have at least one page

Not required for stays less than six months.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy london.

33 Nine Elms Lane London, SW11 7US United Kingdom Telephone: +(44)(20) 7499-9000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(44)(20) 7499-9000 Fax: +(44) (20) 7891-3845 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Edinburgh, Scotland 3 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 5BW Scotland Telephone: 013-1556-8315 / from the United States: 011 (44)(13) 1556-8315 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  020-7499-9000 / from the United States: 011 (44)(20) 7499-9000 Fax: 0131-557-6023 /from the United States: 011 (44) 131-557-6023 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Belfast, Northern Ireland Danesfort House, 223 Stranmillis Road, Belfast BT9 5GR Northern Ireland, United Kingdom Telephone: 028-9038-6100 / from the United States: 011 (44)(28) 9038-6100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 01253-501106 / from the United States: 011 (44) 1253-501106 Fax: 028-9068-1301 / from the United States: 011 (44)(28) 9068-1301 Email: [email protected]

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Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

• To enter the United Kingdom, your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your planned stay.
• Starting June 2019, U.S. passport holders will be able to use the ePassport Gates upon arrival in the United Kingdom. U.S. citizens who had previously registered for the UK’s Registered Traveller Service (RTS) should now also use the ePassport Gates on arrival in the UK.
• If you are planning onward travel after departing the UK, note that many other countries require at least six months’ remaining validity on your passport to enter. If you are bound for Continental Europe, please see our  U.S. travelers in Europe page for additional details.
• Visas for specific categories of visitors must be obtained prior to travel. Visit the  UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website to determine if you need a visa to enter the United Kingdom. We cannot intervene on your behalf when you apply for a UK visa, nor can we advocate for your admission into the UK if you are denied entry.
• Students and prospective students should visit the  UKVI website  to determine if they need a visa.
• For some U.S. travelers, especially students, an entry stamp is required.  Please consult this website  for more information.
• Unpaid and paid workers, interns, volunteers, charity workers, and temporary workers can find information about obtaining a visa on the  UKVI website .
• Visitors traveling to the United Kingdom to get married, even if they do not plan to reside there, must obtain a visa in advance. See the  UKVI website  for visa information.
• Surcharges apply to certain categories of visas, generally those involving work, study, or residency for more than six months. More information is available on the  UKVI website  and in our Health section below.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of the United Kingdom.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible near-term attacks in Europe. The UK Security Service publishes specific reasons for any changes in the threat level and recommended actions for the public via its  UK threat levels website .

There is the potential for  isolated violence  related to the political situation in Northern Ireland. The Police Service of Northern Ireland assesses there is a continued threat of violence from dissident groups in Northern Ireland, focused primarily on police and military targets, and may involve the use of  firearms  and  explosives . Tensions may be heightened during the summer marching season (April to August), particularly on and around the July 12 public holiday.

Avoid areas of demonstrations  if possible, and be careful within the vicinity of demonstrations. Demonstrations occur frequently in and around city centers and areas where tourists frequent. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate to violence.

The phone number for  police/fire/ambulance emergency services  is  999  in the United Kingdom and  112  in Gibraltar. You should also use these numbers to report security threats or suspicious packages. Also see information for  contacting police from abroad .

• Be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
• Be vigilant, as  pickpocketing ,  mugging,  and “snatch and grab” theft of mobile phones, watches and jewelry can occur.
• Do not leave bags unattended in restaurants, pubs, hotel lobbies, and parked cars.
• Be alert to other criminal schemes, such as  impostors  posing as undercover police officers and “fining” tourists for bogus minor offenses. A legitimate Metropolitan Police Services officer will never demand an immediate cash payment.
• Use only licensed Black Cabs or pre-ordered car services (minicabs) . Unlicensed taxis or private cars posing as taxis may offer low fares, but in some instances, travelers have been  robbed  or  sexually assaulted  while using these cars. See Transport for London for additional information on cabs and car services .
• Avoid using ATMs that look temporary in structure or location  or are located in isolated areas – they may not be legitimate. Use ATMs located inside a bank branch.

Scams : Before sending any money to individuals you have never met in person, visit the  Embassy London website  for more information about  internet financial scams  and how to protect yourself.

See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime : Report crimes to the local police at 999 (United Kingdom) or 112 (Gibraltar) and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(44) (20) 7499-9000.

• Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide our information on  victim compensation programs in the United States
• The Victim Support website  is maintained by an independent UK charity to help people cope with the effects of crime
• A Northern Ireland-based independent charity maintains a similar  victim support website
• In Scotland, victims of crime should contact  Victim Support Scotland
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support if you are destitute
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. 

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

• You will be arrested if you bring pocket knives, blades, mace or pepper spray canisters, or any part of a gun into the United Kingdom . Please refer to the UK government publication  Travelling to the UK , which details the items visitors are prohibited from bringing into the United Kingdom.
• Penalties against  alcohol-related  and other  in-flight  crimes committed aboard aircraft to and from the United Kingdom are stiff and are enforced with  prison sentences . Please also see  our information on U.S. customs regulations  covering your return to the United States.
• Controlled Substances: UK law prohibits possession and trafficking of controlled substances and narcotics, including some substances that may be legal to possess under the law of certain U.S. states. More information on controlled substances is available here . Individuals who violate UK drug laws may face penalties including fines or prison sentences.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained in the United Kingdom, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Special Circumstances:

• The legal drinking age in the United Kingdom is 18. Parents and organizers of school trips should read our  Students Abroad website  to help plan a safe and enjoyable experience.
• Scotland’s “drink drive limit” law was amended to a lower level (roughly .05 BAC) and is stricter than the rest of the United Kingdom (roughly .08 BAC). This means that  driving after even one drink  can result in a charge of driving under the influence.
• The United Kingdom has very strict gun control laws, and importing firearms is extremely complicated.  Information on applying for a firearm and/or shotgun certificate can be found on the  London Metropolitan Police Firearms licensing webpage .  Licenses from England or Wales may not be valid in Scotland; please check with the appropriate authorities.  For firearms certificates for Scotland, please check with  Police Scotland .

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in the United Kingdom.

See our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:

• UK law requires that all public service providers (except in the transportation sector) make “reasonable adjustments” to ensure their services are available to persons with disabilities.  Nevertheless, code exemptions permit many older buildings to have steps up from the street.
• Getting around in cities may be difficult at times because sidewalks can be narrow and uneven.
• Most London Underground and UK National Rail System stations are not readily accessible for people with disabilities.  Many stations do not have elevators, and have stairways and long corridors for changing trains or exiting to the street. Many UK buses are equipped with lowering platforms for limited-mobility or sight- or hearing-disabled travelers.
• Many taxis have swivel-entry seats or retractable ramps to ease entry.
• Disabled parking permits (known as “blue badges”) are issued by local government councils throughout the country. Visit the  UK government website  for contact information. Some councils may not offer permits to temporary visitors.

The  Transport for London  and  National Rail  websites provide information for passengers with disabilities.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  women travelers .

While medical services are widely available,  free medical care  under the National Health System (NHS) is allowed only for UK residents, certain EU nationals, and some visa holders.

An NHS surcharge is assessed on certain visa applicants at the time of application.  Tourists and short-term visitors will not be assessed the surcharge, but will be charged 150 percent of the cost of any medical treatment they receive from the NHS. Unpaid balances of £1,000 or more can result in being barred from return to the United Kingdom.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills, and U.S. Medicare is not valid overseas.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides  coverage overseas . Most care providers overseas only accept  cash payments . See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas.

• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Carry  prescription medication  in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Traveling with sufficient supplies to last the duration of your trip is recommended. Mailing prescriptions is prohibitive and may be delayed or rejected by British customs.

Certain prescriptions available in the United States are classified as a "controlled drug"  in the United Kingdom and cannot be brought into the country without applying for and obtaining a prior license. This includes prescriptions for medical marijuana or products containing CBD and THC.  Please visit the https://www.gov.uk/travelling-controlled-drugs for additional information. 

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended for international travel by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Road conditions in the United Kingdom can differ significantly from those in the United States.

• In contrast to the United States, UK traffic drives on the left.  Read the  Highway Code  before driving.
• Emergency call boxes  (orange telephone booths with “SOS” printed on them) are found at half-mile intervals along motorways. White and blue poles point in the direction of the nearest call box. Call boxes dial directly to a motorway center. Use these phones rather than a personal cell phone, because motorway center personnel will immediately know your exact location.
• Generally,  pedestrians do not have the right of way  and should not expect vehicles to stop for them.

Many U.S. citizen pedestrians are injured, some fatally, every year in the United Kingdom, because they forget that oncoming  traffic approaches from the opposite direction  than in the United States.  Exercise extra care when crossing streets; remain alert and look both ways before stepping into the street.

Traffic Laws: 

• UK penalties for driving under the influence of  alcohol  or  drugs  are strict and often  result in prison sentences .
• Using a  hand-held cell phone  or similar device while driving is  illegal  in the United Kingdom. Only hands-free phones may be used. You will be  fined , or in the case of an accident,  arrested  and serve time in  prison .
• The speed limit on highways/motorways in the United Kingdom is 70 mph, or lower when posted.
• You will be  detained  and  arrested  if you cannot provide a UK address to receive a subpoena or are about to depart the United Kingdom and have to be brought to court quickly for a motoring offense.
• In Central London, a congestion charge is levied on all drivers who pass through the congestion zone. You will be  fined  or  arrested  if you do not pay the charge. See  Transport for London  for more information about driving in London.

Public Transportation:  Public transport in the United Kingdom is extensive.

• Information on disruptions to London transportation services can be found on the  Transport for London  website.
• Information about the status of National Rail Services can be found on the  National Rail Enquiries  website.
• Bus and train service information in Northern Ireland can be found on the  Translink  website.
• Bus and train service information in Scotland can be found on the  Traveline Scotland  website.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. For specific information concerning UK driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance, refer to the  UK Department for Transport  website or the  Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency  website.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of the United Kingdom’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of United Kingdom’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to the United Kingdom should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at  www.marad.dot.gov/msci . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website and the NGA broadcast warnings website (select “broadcast warnings”).

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in the United Kingdom . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

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Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

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What is  green travel?

• Mar 4, 2022

How to travel from the UK to Italy without flying

There are several ways to travel to Italy from the UK without flying thanks to Eurostar's service from London connecting with a variety of high-speed train services from either Paris or Lille/Lyon and to northern Italy. The good news is that you can reach cities such as Turin and Milan as well as lakes Como and Garda in the north of Italy within a day from London. The following morning you can then whizz down by train to further destinations in Italy , including Rome, Florence and Naples, to the Amalfi Coast, and across by ferry to the islands of Sardinia and Sicily.

There is also a slower route to Italy by ferry from Harwich in the East of England to Rotterdam in The Netherlands and then onward by train to Italy, or alternatively, if you live in the North of England or Scotland, you could take the ferry from Newcastle or Hull to The Netherlands an then onward by train to Italy. For detailed information to how to take public transport to the UK's ferry ports, see Green Traveller's Guide to travelling as a foot passenger from the UK to Europe .

Our team has tried and tested many of these routes and so we have tried to summarise all the available options in this post based on our experience. On arrival in Italy, there are plenty of options at rail terminals for onward travel by rail and bus.

It's a lovely journey by train to Italy. Photos: Eurostar and Wix Media

By train from the UK to Italy

Route 1: via paris.

It is possible to travel by train to Italy in a day from the UK. The fastest route is to take the Eurostar from London St Pancras International Railway Station then change in Paris to catch one of the many high speed TGV trains to Turin and Milan in northern Italy. For instance, you could catch the 10.22am Eurostar and reach Turin at 9.18pm and Milan at 10.07pm. You could also take any Eurostar to Paris and stay overnight in the French capital and then catch one of the high-speed TGV trains to Italy the following day.

See our detailed guides for sample departure and arrival times and transfers in Paris:

Train from London to Milan (the arrival station is 'Milan Porta Garibaldi')

Train from London to Turin ('Torino Porta Susa')

Train tickets provided by Trainline:

In Paris, you have to change stations in Paris from Gare du Nord to Gare de Lyon, which can take about half an hour on the Paris RER line (it's only two stops, though we recommend you leave at least 50 minutes for the entire transfer - you have about an hour and a half to get the connection, though you could get an earlier train and spent a bit more time in Paris, e.g. have lunch at the wonderful Train Bleu Restaurant in Gare de Lyon). At Gare de Lyon, you board a TGV high speed train to Torino Porta Susa station, which continues to Milan Porta Garibaldi .

See our guide to How to transfer between train stations across Paris .

Stopover hotels to break the journey in Paris

If you want to break the journey en route (either on the outward journey and/or on the way back) and stay overnight to see a bit more of Paris, there are lots of lovely places to stay in Paris conveniently near both Gare du Nord and Gare de Lyon. Here are some examples of hotels that are conveniently near these stations:

Hotels near Gare du Nord, Paris (where Eurostar arrives from London)

Hotels near Gare de Lyon, Paris (for your departing train to Italy the following day)

Return journey back from Italy to the UK via Paris As with the outward journey via Paris, you can travel back from Italy to the UK in a day by train via Paris. For instance, you could take the 6.00am train from Milan or the 7.39am from Turin to Gare de Lyon, transfer across Paris to Gare du Nord to catch the Eurostar and arrive back in London at 4.37pm.

Route 2: Via Lille and Lyon

If you prefer not to cross Paris to change trains, then the option of simply changing trains in Lille could be for you. It requires a simply same-station change of train in Lille down to Lyon where you stay overnight (there are plenty of hotels very close to the station in Lyon - see below), and then in the morning you can take a ' Frecciarossa' high-speed train to Turin and Milan. These Frecciarossa trains are run by Trenitalia (the Italian railway operator).

Hotels near the railway station in Lyon ( for your departing train to Italy the following day)

Onwards by train through Italy from Turin and Milan

There are onward trains from Turin and Milan to destinations throughout Italy. It's just a short onward journey to both Lake Como (Como San Giovanni) and Lake Garda (there are two stations on Lake Garda (it's a big lake!): Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione and Peschiera del Garda). In fact, both lakes can reached in the same day from London – just take the onward train from Turin or Milan –Lake Como is just 50 minutes from Milan and Lake Garda is about an hour and half from Milan.

See our guides to how to travel to the following destinations, with sample schedules and transfers, all the way from London:

Train from London to Rome

Train from London to Florence

Train from London to Naples

Return journey back from Italy to the UK via Lyon and Lille As with the outward journey via Lille and Lyon, you can travel back from Italy to the UK by train via Lyon and Lille (you can actually do the return journey in one day). For instance, you could take the 6.25am train from Milan or the 7.11am from Turin to arrive in at Lyon at 11.08 then take the 11.35am train to Lille arriving at 3.48pm to catch the 4.48pm Eurostar and arrive back in London at 5pm – or if that's a bit tight (remember you'll have the 45-60min check in time for Eurostar), you could catch the 7.35pm Eurostar arriving in to London at 7.57pm.

By ferry and train from the UK to Italy

There are three options to go by ferry:

i. From Harwich in the East of England to The Netherlands and then onward by train to Italy. The ferry service is Stenaline's integrated Rail & Sail initiative, which combines a rail ticket to Harwich with the cost of the overnight ferry over to Hoek van Holland (Rotterdam). The joy of this trip is that as well as the excellent on board facilities on the ferry (including restaurants and cabins) it's just a short walk from Harwich railway station on to the ferry, and also on arrival off the ferry at Hoek van Holland to the departing train. On arrival at Hoek van Holland you can take the train to Amsterdam and then onwards to Munich (arriving in the early evening) and then catch any number of trains to Italy, including an overnight sleeper train to Venice (from where you can take trains to Florence, Rome and Naples).

ii. From Hull to The Netherlands and then onward by train to Italy. P&O operates an overnight cruise ferry from Hull to Hoek van Holland (Rotterdam) from where you can take the train via Amsterdam and the sleeper from Munich to Venice (see above).

Tickets provided by P&O ferries:

iii. From Newcastle to The Netherlands and then onward by train to Italy. DFDS Seaways run an overnight cruise ferry from Newcastle to IJmuiden (Amsterdam) from where you can take the train to Munich and then the sleeper to Venice (see above).

Tickets provided by DFDS Seaways:

The slow route to Europe, by overnight ferry from Harwich, Hull or Newcastle to The Netherlands

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Please note : The information on this page aims to give you a reasonable idea of train and ferry routes, times and tickets, in order that hopefully there’s enough detail to know what's available, how to plan a journey and where to book tickets. The information was up to date at time of publication, but services do change from time to time and we cannot take responsibility for any errors or inaccuracies we provide. Always confirm details when you book with the relevant travel operator. If you are aware of any inaccuracies, we'd really appreciate being informed via our contact page so we can make the relevant changes to the information provided for the benefit of other travellers.

• Flight-Free Route Guides

Related Posts

How to travel to and from Ireland without flying

How to travel from Scotland to Europe without flying

How to travel from the UK to Spain without flying

Italy Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Italy

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces and public transportation.

Italy entry details and exceptions

Ready to travel, find flights to italy, find stays in italy, explore more countries on travel restrictions map, destinations you can travel to now, dominican republic, netherlands, philippines, puerto rico, switzerland, united arab emirates, united kingdom, know when to go.

Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know.

Can I travel to Italy from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Italy.

Can I travel to Italy if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Italy without restrictions.

Can I travel to Italy without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Italy without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Italy?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Italy.

Can I travel to Italy without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Italy?

Mask usage in Italy is not required in public spaces and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Italy?

Restaurants in Italy are open. Bars in Italy are .

WhatPlug.info

Guide for the traveller with plugs

How to use plugs from United Kingdom in Italy

Plugs, sockets, adapters and other information needed for travelling from United Kingdom to Italy in this page. If you want a report for other countries, re-start the wizard to find to electric adapters for your trip here .

Quick Chart at-a-glance

If you are electrical savvy, perhaps the previous chart is all you need. If this is not the case, you can continue reading and discover what the chart is saying!

Plugs and Sockets at each country

In United Kingdom the following plugs are used: (includes London, Bath, Oxford, Cambridge, Brighton.)

Considerations for the United Kingdom

It is likely you will only find plugs-type "G" in the UK. Plugs type "D" and "M" are considered "old" and not common. They are are still used nowadays to differentiate low-power lighting circuits. So please don't try to use an adapter on them for high-power equipments like hair-dryer or even battery chargers. We keep "D" and "M" plugs in our database as we don't know your exact destination and you might find one next to a bed table. As a rule of thumb , you will probably be fine with the type "G" in hotels and big cities.

... and in Italy you will use: (includes Rome, Venice, Florence, Milan, Naples, Palermo, Turin.)

Cinque Terre

We have a post " Plugs & Travel Adapters for your next trip to Europe ", maybe you want to read it.

Exact voltage

Perfect! This is very good! You will not need any sort of voltage adapter (they are always big, heavy and they can't handle too much energy. i.e. might have problems with hairdryers). You can plug your devices to the electric network grid in Italy without requiring a voltage adapter.

Different plug systems

Sorry, none of the plugs used in both countries are common. You will definitelly need plug adapters, please continue reading for more information.

Lists of adapters you can use in your travel:

Adapter: generic

This adapter allows you to use plugs type: A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N into outlets type: E, F.

This adapter allows you to use plugs type: A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N into outlets type: L.

This adapter allows you to use plugs type: A, B, D, G, I, M into outlets type: C, E, F, L.

This adapter has a safety protection so you don't plug only one terminal into the adapter while touching the other with your finger, because it is generic, when you buy it pay attention to this safety mechanism. Overall a good adapter that has the earth connection pass-though (notice the metallic connector on the side.)

Adapters you can buy

You can buy the following multi-purpose adapters from Amazon. Please also take a look at the recommended gadgets for your trip.

Equal Hertz

This is the perfect situation. You will not have any clock shift issue with the same Hertz.

Spain, France, Italy, Greece and Portugal Foreign Office advice before travelling

Guidance is regularly updated to ensure travellers remain safe

• 13:45, 26 APR 2024

If you're looking to travel abroad throughout the summer, you should familiarise yourself with the travel guidelines for the country you're planning on travelling to

With the summer fast approaching, many will be jetting off abroad for some rest and relaxation. Popular destinations include Spain, France, Greece, Italy and Portugal. To avoid any issues on your travels make sure to check any rules.

The Foreign Office regularly updates its guidance on what tourists need to know in advance of heading out of the country. Below, we've pulled out some of the key bits of advice including passport requirements,

READ MORE: Jet2 issues alert for customers about 2024 holiday prices

READ MORE: Third UK airport scraps 100ml liquid rule for hand luggage

Passport requirements:

For all of the above destinations, passport rules are largely the same. Before you are allowed to jet off, your passport must be:

• issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
• valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

Check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before October 1, 2018, then extra months may have been added to its expiry date.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel. The authorities in the country you are visiting set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the local embassy or consulates in the UK.

Do I need a visa?

You can typically travel to Spain, Portugal, France, Italy and Greece without a visa. The countries fall into what is known as the Schengen area of the EU which grants travel for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa.

This applies if you travel as a tourist, to visit family or friends, to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events, or for short-term studies or training. The area covers 26 countries in total which are all listed on the GOV.UK website.

Vaccination requirements:

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Italy. Advice for Spain, Portugal, France, and Greece all state: "Countries may restrict travel or bring in rules at short notice. Check with your travel provider for changes."

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• Most Recent

• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Italy vs. the UK for Museums & Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

• Pros & Cons
• Museums & Attractions
• Culture & History
• Small Towns
• Christmas Markets
• National Parks
• Adventure & Outdoor Activities
• Watersports
• Outdoor Activities
• Backpackers
• Transportation
• More time in Italy or the UK?
• Which is Cheaper, Italy or the UK?
• When to Visit Italy or the UK?
• Weather: Italy vs. the UK

Should you visit Italy or the United Kingdom?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Italy and the UK can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

We'll start with a quick overview, and below we will go into all of the details.

Italy is a cultural, captivating, and scenic country. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and water sports.

Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. This is no surprise considering it offers world-famous sights and attractions, delicious food, beautiful scenery, abundant history, and gorgeous architecture.

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is a traditional, prosperous, and beautiful country. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, theater, history and culture, and nightlife.

The United Kingdom, also commonly referred to as Great Britain, offers visitors a diverse set of experiences and attractions throughout the large cities, small town, and countryside. Consisting of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, travelers can explore a deep and rich history and culture along with modern attractions and beautiful, diverse landscapes. From cities such as London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, and Belfast, it's easy to get out into the smaller towns and countryside to explore the mountains, coastline, and agricultural regions of this island nation.

Italy and UK: Pros and Cons

• Popular museums and historical sights
• Great culture, history, and arts
• Popular beach
• Known for Christmas markets
• Popular for skiing
• Good for hiking
• Beautiful national parks
• Plenty of watersports
• Great road trips
• Family-friendly
• Good for couples and romance
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Impressive beauty
• Less attractive beach
• Less popular for Christmas markets
• Less popular for skiing
• Not as many national parks
• Less adventure activities
• Less watersports
• Less popular with couples

How is Italy different from the UK?

Which is better for a holiday.

Below we will examine the differences and similarities between Italy and the UK. With this information, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Italy or the UK?

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both The UK and Italy .

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Italy has many famous sights for visitors. The major cities offer a unique combination of art, history, and cultural museums that are unmatched anywhere else in the world. From the famous art museums in Florence and Venice to the historical center of Rome, it's hard to find another country that offers as many museums as Italy.

Rome : The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

Florence : Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

Venice : The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

Pompeii : Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

See also Florence Activity Guide , The Ultimate Rome Travel Guide , and Cheap Tours and Activities in Rome, Italy .

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in The UK that are not to be missed. Visitors will find some terrific museums not just in London, but all over the country. For starters, the British Museum is world famous, but York also has the Railway Museum. The smaller town of Bath has its Baths, and you'll find plenty of art galleries all over such as Kelvingrove in Glasgow or the McManus in Dundee.

London : The city has so many iconic sights that we can't list them all, but some of the most famous include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the British Museum. You can fill many days exploring the treasures found at each of the venues.

Edinburgh : The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

Bath : The main draw to Bath is the rich history and most sights are focused on the area's spa city past. The Roman Baths are a highlight of a trip to the city, but other not to be missed places include Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, and Pulteney Bridge.

Is Italy or the UK Better for Culture, Arts, and History?

Italy and The UK both offer a fairly similar amount of great history and culture for visitors.

For those interested in history, art, and culture, Italy is not to be missed. It's hard to find another country as proud of its heritage, culture, and history. In Italy, all of these are mixed together as the historical architecture and cuisine are constant reminders of the rich history and artistic contributions throughout the centuries. From the ancient Roman civilization up to the Renaissance to modern times, it's all on display here in the cities and the countryside.

See also How to Buy Tickets to the Colosseum , Rome Activity Guide , and The Ultimate Florence Travel Guide .

The UK offers world-famous historcal and cultural sights and attractions. This is one of the main reasons why so many people come here every year. Thousands of years of history is on display all over the U.K. With historical destinations such as London, Stonehenge, Edinburgh, Cardiff, numerous castles, and historical small towns, history lovers will find plenty to do here.

See also Free and Cheap Things To Do in Belfast , and The Castles of Scotland .

Is Italy or the UK Better for Big City Activities?

Italy offers more big cities to explore than The UK.

Visitors will also find so much to do in Italy , as the large cities offer many sights and attractions. With numerous world-famous cities, this country offers a special city vibe many times over. From the bustling streets of Rome and Milan to the historic centers of Florence, Venice, and Naples, visitors will find no shortage of sights, attractions, nightlife, restaurants, and museums to explore in the big cities of Italy.

See also Milan: The Ultimate Travel Planning Guide , Naples: The Ultimate Travel Planning Guide , and The Ultimate Venice Travel Guide .

The UK has large cities with plenty of activites for visitors as well. London is the first name that comes to mind when thinking of large cities in Great Britain, and rightly so as this huge global city attracts visitors from everywhere because of its history, museums, theatre, nightlife, food, and monuments. After London, the U.K. has many large cities with their own atmosphere and cultural experiences to offer. Liverpool, Manchester, Cardiff, Edinburgh, and Belfast all have terrific attractions, nightlife, and cuisine for visitors.

See also 1 Day in London On A Budget , and The Best Things to Do in Glasgow .

Is Italy or the UK Better for Small Towns and Villages?

Italy offers more villages and small towns to explore than The UK.

Italy also offers a huge number of beautiful small towns with plenty of sights and activities. If quintessential small towns are what you seek, then you will find them here. Along the coastline as well as inland, Italy is home to numerous charming small towns with colorful buildings and gorgeous landscapes. Many of these towns offer great views of the surrounding countryside or coastlines, a maze-like selection of narrow alleyways, and quaint cafes to while away the afternoons.

See also Amalfi Coast's Seaside Towns , The Best Day Trips from Venice , and Things to Do in Cinque Terre .

The UK is a great destination to visit small towns and villages just waiting to be explored. Some of the most popular and scenic small towns in England include St. Ives, Bath, Castle Combe, Bibury, and Shaftesbury. And in Scotland, don't miss Tobermory, Anstruther, Linlithgow, St. Andrews, and others. In Wales, you'll find beautiful scenery in Tenby, Solva, Rhossili, and others. Outside of Belfast in Northern Ireland, you'll find small town charm in Bangor, Kilkeel, and Portstewart. All of these towns across the nation offer that traditional quaintness that visitors seek from a typical town in the countryside. You'll find pubs, historic architecture, the occasional ruins of castles and churches, farms, and more.

Is the Food Better in Italy or the UK? Which Country Has the Best Restaurants?

Italy has a longer list of notable local restaurants than The UK.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Italy is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The food here is world-famous, as you probably already know. In fact, the food is one of the main attractions. Pasta, pizza, seafood, and gelato are only just the beginning. Many regions of Italy have their own culinary specialties, too. So, be prepared to eat your way through this gourmet country.

Rome : Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

Milan : The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

Naples : As the birthplace of pizza, the city has a well known food reputation. Many local dishes, including an authentic Napoli pizza, use simple flavors such as olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. The dishes are lighter than their northern counterparts and tomatoes are a very popular ingredient. In addition to the pizza, you should try Lasagna Al Forno Napoletana and Spaghetti Alla Vognole. Also check out a pizza making class.

Florence : Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Bologna : Foodies will appreciate the city's well earned culinary reputation. Some people even consider Bologna to be a food capital in Italy. There are cooking classes and food tours around town, as well as many great restaurants that serve up local dishes. Visitors should try Tagliatelle with Ragu (now famously known around the world as Bolognaise), Tortellini in broth, and Mortadella (salami).

See also Make Your Own Pizza in Naples, Italy .

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, The UK makes for a great culinary experience. In the last few decades, the food scene in Great Britain has taken off as world-class chefs have opened restaurants featuring menus from all corners of the globe. When visiting the U.K., you'll be pleasantly surprised by the quality and creativity of the food. That being said, traditional British food itself is not particularly famous. Fish and Chips, meat pies, black pudding, bangers and mash, and "toad in the hole" (sausage in batter) tend to be first on people's lists of interesting foods to try when visiting. But they are not the final say in modern British cuisine anymore.

York : Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

Is Italy or the UK Better for Nightlife?

Italy has the better options when it comes to nightlife.

Italy is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The major cities of Rome, Milan, Florence, and Naples offer plenty of nightlife for every type of person. From bars and clubs to restaurants and theatre, the larger and even the smaller cities have plenty of options.

Rome : You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

Milan : The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

See also Party Hostels in Florence , and Party Hostels in Rome .

The people in The UK know how to have a good time. London is one of the most popular cities in the world for nightlife. From bars and clubs to theatre shows, the activity in the city is always pulsing. Liverpool, Manchester, Edinburgh, Belfast, and other large cities also have plenty of nightlife options, too, with active nightclubs, varied music scenes, and theatre productions.

London : Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife are Camden, West End, Soho, and Shoreditch. There are many festivals, concerts, and shows worth checking out and the nightlife scene is diverse enough that there really is something for everyone.

Glasgow : The city has some of the best nightlife in the entire country. There are clubs, bars, techno warehouses and more. Some of the best clubs include Sub Club, The Berkeley Suite, and The Garage.

See also London's Party Hostels .

Is Italy or the UK Better for Beaches?

Italy is considered to be a more popular beach destination than The UK.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Italy . Many of the beaches along the coastline offer fantastic scenery and stunning beauty, and consist of coves with dramatic rock formations with clear blue waters. While not as sandy as in other countries, they still attract plenty of visitors. The southern regions, and Sicily, offer flatter beaches with more sand if you're looking for better swimming.

See also The Ultimate Amalfi Coast Travel Guide .

The UK is a good spot to see the beach. The southern coastline of Britain has a variety of beach areas, some with wide sandy beaches lined with restaurants, boardwalk shops, and other fun activities. While the water is generally cold, the summer months are still quite popular. Some of the more visited spots include St. Ives, Brighton, Newquay, Bournemouth, and West Wittering. This is just a few, and many more areas are favorites with locals, too.

Is the Shopping Better in Italy or the UK?

Italy usually beats out The UK for shopping.

Italy is a world class destination for shoppers. From Milan to Florence to Rome, this country offers some terrific fashion and shopping experiences. The big cities and the smaller towns can provide unique opportunities to find new clothes, fun souvenirs, and interesting crafts.

Rome : For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

Milan : Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

Venice : There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

Como : The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

The UK is an extremely popular place for shoppers. London offers plenty of shopping experiences all over the city, and has various neighborhoods with different styles, trends, and vibes. Other large cities also have their own shopping districts where locals and travelers alike can find anything they want from clothes to gifts to locals artisan crafts.

London : With so much iconic shopping around town, it's hard to decide where to go. Head to Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Piccadilly Circus for a quintessential British shopping experience.

Is Italy or the UK Better for Christmas?

Italy usually beats out The UK for activites during the Christmas season.

Italy is a world class destination for shoppers. Rome is a very popular destination at Christmas, especially since it is home to the Vatican. The city is fantastically decorated for the season. But it's not the only one, as other larger cities and smaller towns also put on large holiday displays with huge Christmas trees, ice skating rinks, and theatre shows. Many of the towns in the northern regions of Italy also put on markets and decorate large areas of their public squares.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in The UK. While London is an easy choice for the holiday season, as it decorates major landmarks and offers fun winter activities, plenty of other locations around the country are also worth visiting. Edinburgh has a festive atmosphere as well with large trees, festivities, and decorations. Bath, Cardiff, York, and Bournemouth all put on their own activities, too.

London : There's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, outdoor ice skating, and beautiful Christmas lights throughout the city. You can also listen to Christmas Carols in Trafalgar Square or see a classic Christmas show.

Is Italy or the UK Better for Christmas Markets?

While The UK and Italy both have Christmas markets, overall Italy is more well-known.

Italy is a popular destination to visit Christmas markets. Many of the smaller towns in northern Italy host Christmas markets in their central areas. A few of the best include Bolzano, Trento, Merano, Bressanone, and Arezzo. Florence also puts on a large market during the holidays. And in Milan, families and kids will love the Village of Wonders which offers plenty of activities, as well as a market in the heart of the city.

The UK is a good spot to see some Christmas markets. Visitors over the holidays can find Christmas markets in London, Bath, Bournemouth, Cardiff, and Edinburgh, among others. In addition to shopping, many of these markets offer fun activities, ice skating, shows, Santa encounters, and delicious holiday cuisine.

London : The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Is Italy or the UK Better for Skiing?

While The UK and Italy both offer snow skiing, overall Italy has more to offer.

Italy is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. In the northern mountainous areas of Italy visitors will find the Alps and the Dolomites. Here, a number of world-class ski resorts draw visitors from all over Europe and the rest of the world.

While skiing is available in The UK, for many travelers it is not the primary purpose of their visit. Aberdeenshire in Scotland offers a handful of ski resorts such as Glenshee and Lecht. Also nearby you'll find Cairngorm mountain and Glencoe. A few more ski resort areas can be found in Cumbria, and a few more around the mountainous areas of central Britain. However, the skiing at these resorts does not compare to those in mainland Europe, but they are still fun for the locals or anyone who wants to make a short and quick trip for some downhill runs.

Is Italy or the UK Better for Hiking?

While Italy and The UK both offer hiking, overall The UK is considered to have more to offer.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting The UK. Hiking and "walks" are very popular ways to experience and explore the beautiful landscapes of the U.K., as a number of long routes weave their way through the countryside and along the coastline. It's quite popular to do a multi-day walk with stopovers in quaint towns, especially as many of these walks are on routes with easy elevation and clearly defined paths with good signs. Some of the more popular routes include the Hadrian’s Wall Path, The Cleveland Way, Norfolk Coast Path, and Cotswold Way. If it's more strenuous mountain hiking that you're after, definitely visit one of the national park areas such as Cairngorms, Peak District, Lake District, or Snowdonia, as they all offer mountain trails with gorgeous scenery.

Isle of Skye : Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

Snowdonia National Park : There are approximately 1,500 miles of walking paths and hiking trails in the area. You can hike to waterfalls, along beaches, or to the top of Mt. Snowden. Aber Falls is a popular trail or you could explore lakes and try to see wild ponies along the Llyn Idwal Trail. For a particularly strenuous and adventurous trail, head to Glyder Fawr or The Snowdon Horseshoe Circular Walk.

Outer Hebrides : The islands offer some of the area's best hiking. You'll pass by stunning beaches, see unique wildlife, and enjoy a remote and tranquil setting. Follow the Hebridean Way, which covers the full length of the archipelago. It spans 156 miles and goes through 10 islands with 2 ferry trips.

Lake District National Park : There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

Italy offers some nice hiking trails. The northern regions around the Dolomites and the Alps offer plenty of hiking trails, as do some of the central inland areas where the terrain is higher and rugged. Plenty of coastal trails can be found with stunning views of the Mediterranean, too. Check out the trails around the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre, for example. Also, one of the most famous hikes is the historic walk along the Appian Way.

Cinque Terre : The five towns are part of Cinque Terre National Park and there are 120 kilometers of hiking trails in the park. Most people hike along the trails that follow the coastline and connect the towns. There are fees for the most popular stretch of trails which connect Monterosso to Vernazza and then go from Vernazza to Corniglia. All other hiking is free in the area.

See also A Hiking Guide to Cinque Terre , and Tours and Hiking Trips to Mt. Vesuvius and Pompeii .

Is Italy or the UK Better for its National Parks?

Italy usually beats out The UK for its wide range of national parks.

Many visitors go to Italy to see the national parks. While not necessarily famous for its national parks, here you'll still find plenty of absolutely gorgeous regions to explore. From the Dolomites in the north to the beautiful stretches of coastline, Italy has plenty of park areas to explore. Don't miss Cinque Terre with its colorful villages and vineyards, or Gargano in the south with its clear waters and white cliffs.

The UK is a good destination to visit the national parks. A few of the most popular national parks in the U.K. include Snowdonia, Peak District, Lake District, Cairngorms, and Loch Lamond. Most of these parks offer beautiful mountain scenery, rivers, camping, lakes, and outdoor experiences for the whole family.

Is Italy or the UK Better for Adventure Travel?

Italy generally offers more adventure travel options for travelers than The UK.

Italy has some adventurous travel experiences that often attract visitors. If thrills are what you're after, you can find a number of adventure sports here. From skiing in the north to scuba diving in the south, you can find it here. Visitors can also find plenty of hiking and paragliding in the mountains, as well as canyoning in many of the central regions of Italy.

The UK is a good destination for those who seek adventure travel experiences, as there are a few options to explore. Some of the more popular areas to participate in adventure sports are in the more wilderness regions and national parks of the nation. Zip lines, rock climbing, kayaking, paragliding, river rafting, and canyoning are all popular in the mountainous areas. Surfing is sometimes found along the coast, too.

Is Italy or the UK Better for Visiting the Mountains?

While The UK and Italy both have beautiful mountain areas, overall Italy is considered to be better for visitors.

Italy has some beautiful mountain areas that attract visitors. While not known for mountains as much as some of its neighbors, this country has its fair share in the northern regions where you'll find the Alps and Dolomites. Plenty of mountain villages can be found here, along with winter skiing, summer hiking, scenic lakes, and more.

The UK is a good destination to visit the mountains, as there are some fun activities. Many of the national parks in Britain offer gorgeous mountain scenery with hiking, horseback riding, adventure sports, camping, and more. Snowdonia, Peak District, Lake District, Cairngorms, and other parks have plenty of mountain adventures waiting for visitors. Also, the northern areas of Scotland are rugged and mountainous. The Hebrides for example, offer amazing natural landscapes where the mountains meet the sea to the north.

Is Italy or the UK Better for Watersports?

While The UK and Italy both have plenty of watersports, overall Italy is considered to be better for travelers seeking these activities.

The watersports in Italy attract many visitors. As a coastal nation, it's no surprise that visitors can get out on the water here. From boating to surfing to fishing, it's quite easy to find plenty of activities. Scuba diving and snorkeling are especially popular in the southern regions of Italy where the water is clear and warm.

The UK is a good destination to participate in watersports, as there are some fun activities. Surfing is popular in some areas of the coastline such as Cornwall and in Snowdonia National Park. It's also possible to find a few river rafting outfitters around the country, too. Kayaking, fishing, and boating are all quite popular along the shore, too.

Is Italy or the UK Better for Outdoor Activities?

You can find a fairly equal amount of great outdoor activities in both Italy and The UK .

Outdoor activities in Italy are quite popular with travelers. Hiking, snow skiing, boating, kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, and more are all popular activities here. One of the main reasons is that the natural beauty is everywhere, and that most of the country's outdoor areas are so accessible to the larger cities.

The UK has some outdoor activities that attract visitors. Outdoor activities in Great Britain include hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, adventure sports, camping, and more. It's easy and accessible to get out into nature here from the big cities, and a diverse array of activities can be found.

Is Italy or the UK Better for a Road Trip?

The UK is usually considered to be a better destination to explore on a road trip than Italy.

Taking a road trip through The UK is very good way to see the countryside and smaller destinations. The roads in the U.K. are great, and with plenty of small villages, national park areas, seaside destinations, and historical sites, a road trip is a great way to see the country.

Italy is a great place to take a road trip. If you're looking to drive through the countryside from city to city, or even just through the small towns, you'll find some great roads in Italy. Take a drive down the coast from Rome to see a diverse set of coastlines, towns, and historical sights. Or, drive through the mountains in the north interspersed with gorgeous lakes. And don't forget about Tuscany where you can explore the small towns among the vineyards and wineries.

Is Italy or the UK Better for Families?

Both Italy and The UK are great to visit with kids.

Italy is an extremely popular country to visit for families. With plenty of diverse activities for children and adults, here you'll find large cities with famous attractions, beautiful beaches on stunning coastlines, small towns with great food. Plenty of amusement parks, outdoor activities, and water sports are also available.

Lake Garda : The nearby amusement parks, including Gardaland, make this a popular destination for families. The area also has many places to swim, trails to explore, and castles to experience. Kids and adults alike will love this amazing kid-friendly area.

See also Cinque Terre: The Ultimate Travel Planning Guide , and Hostels in Palermo, Sicily for Couples, Women, Families & Solo Travellers .

With a huge array of activities for kids, The UK is very family-friendly. From the big cities to the countryside, if you're traveling with kids you'll find something great to do. London has family-friendly museums and attractions such as science museums, the Tower of London, and amusement parks. Plenty of beach resort areas are found along the coastline, too, such as in Blackpool, Cornwall, the Isle of Wight, or Paignton. Head north to Snowdonia for hiking and watersports, or to Scotland for the lakes, historic railways, and castles. Kids of all ages, and parents also will love if.

London : Whether you do a Harry Potter Tour, take a ride on the London Eye, or enjoy afternoon tea, there are plenty of activities for kids around town. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is fun for everyone, but should be booked well in advance as it sells out. Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy catching a musical in West End and sampling dim sum or a hot pot in Chinatown. There are often Wednesday matinee showings that are perfect for kids with early bedtimes.

York : The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

Is Italy or the UK Better for Couples?

Italy offers a wider variety of romantic activities for couples than The UK.

Italy has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Known for its romantic destinations, couples will have a hard time simply deciding which destination to choose first. From world-famous cities full of charm, romance, and cuisine to gorgeous beaches to small colorful towns, Italy has everything a couple would want for a honeymoon or a romantic getaway.

Florence : Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Venice : With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

Como : Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

Siena : With its impressive beauty and long running history, this is a truly romantic city. The atmosphere is relaxed and there are plazas and neighborhoods that are great for exploring. There are also many great restaurants, superb wine, and world class sights that are not to be missed.

Sorrento : This beautiful romantic destination is one of the world's top honeymoon areas. It's a small city that offers access to the many nearby destinations, so it makes a good base or gateway city for visiting places like Capri and the Blue Grotto as well as the Amalfi Coast. You can enjoy romantic hikes full of stunning views, explore by kayak, dine at romantic restaurants, or experience a one-of-a-kind farm tour. If you base yourself in Sorrento, you'll likely be doing a lot of day trips.

See also Hostels in Palermo, Sicily for Couples, Women, Families & Solo Travellers , and Hostels in Bologna for Solo Travellers, Female Travellers, and Couples .

The UK is a nice destination for couples. Plenty of destinations in Great Britain are great for couples. London for starters has many nice hotels, restaurants, and romantic spots around town. Or, head to the countryside of Scotland or Wales for castles, beautiful natural scenery, lakes, and more. If you're looking for an active trip, check out some of the national park or wilderness areas such as Lake District, Snowdonia, or Cairngorms. Also, many of the beach destinations have nice resort areas for couples, too.

London : With every type of entertainment that you can imagine, this city is the ultimate couple's getaway. There are world class musicals, evening concerts, and restaurants of every style, cuisine, and budget. It's easy for couples to fill days in this vibrant city.

Bath : With its beautiful architecture and fascinating history, this city is perfect for couples. Take a canal cruise or wander through the scenic areas to enjoy a romantic trip.

Snowdonia National Park : Explore the beautiful outdoor scenery by taking one of the many hikes in the park. There are many diverse walking routes or you can head to the top of Mt. Snowden. There are also waterfalls and castles that couples can explore.

See also Hostels in Liverpool for Solo Travellers, Groups, & Couples .

Is Italy or the UK Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Most people consider Italy to be better for backpackers than The UK.

Italy is a very popular country to visit for backpackers. Plenty of affordable and budget-friendly options are available here which allow backpackers to spend less on a trip. From hostels to street food to free attractions, it's possible to explore the cities and countryside of Italy without breaking the bank.

Rome : Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

Florence : The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Sorrento : Because its a small city with accessible transportation, you'll find a decent number of hostels that make it an affordable base for exploring the area. You can hit many nearby sights as day trips or use this as a first stop off point as you make your way along the coast.

See also Best Hostels in Rome , Florence's Best Hostels , and Party Hostels in Florence .

Backpackers come from all over to visit The UK. The overall price of travel in the U.K. can be quite high, so backpackers and budget travelers will need to plan ahead to find affordable accommodations and entertainment options. London in particular offers plenty of hostels and budget accommodation options, but they are still priced higher than in many other cities. Smaller cities, towns, and destinations in the countryside can usually be more affordable. Prices aside, the overall amenities and infrastructure for budget travelers and backpackers are everywhere and very frequent. It's easy to find lower-priced options everywhere, along with plenty of free and cheap activities, so don't let the overall costs dissuade you from visiting.

London : Although the city is very expensive, it has tons of hostels, affordable restaurant options, and great public transit. There's a huge backpacker network here and it's easy to meet other travelers. The nightlife scene is also second to none.

Edinburgh : The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

Lake District National Park : There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

See also Hostels for Solo Travellers, Female Travellers, & Couples in London, England , London's Party Hostels , and London Hostels Near Kings Cross .

Is Italy or the UK Better for Students?

While Italy and The UK are both good for students, overall The UK is genreally more popular.

The UK is a very popular country for students. Students will find not only a huge number of universities in the U.K., but also a large support network on top of affordable travel opportunities. Many of the major universities around the country are in locations with fun activities, vibrant nightlife, and affordable sights and attractions.

London : The city has a number of universities and is a popular study abroad destination. It's also a very diverse city, so international students will feel right at home.

Birmingham : With world class academic institutions and a very diverse and international population, this is a popular place for international students to study.

Oxford : At its heart, Oxford is a college town and students are at the heart of the city and its culture.

Cambridge : The town is home to more than 25,000 students who come from 140 different countries. This is one of the most iconic university towns in the world, and there's really no better place for students to visit or reside.

St. Andrews : At its heart, this is a university town with a long standing history in teaching. You'll find the town's population doubles when students are in town.

See also Hostels in Glasgow, Scotland for Students, Backpackers, and Solo Travellers , Hostels in England for Backpackers and Students , and Hostels in Scotland for Backpackers and Students .

Many students visit Italy. As the home of many study-abroad programs and major universities, students will feel right at home here. Plenty of academic and budget-travel options are available in the major cities as well as some of the smaller towns.

Rome : The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

Milan : It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.

Florence : Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Bologna : It's a top study abroad destination in Italy and is home to a few great universities including the well ranked University of Bologna. There are many great activities for students and a variety of fun places to explore.

Venice : Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

See also Hostels in Genoa for Solo Travellers, Backpackers, and Students , Affordable, Safe, and Quiet Hostels in Naples, Italy for Students and Backpackers , and Affordable and Safe Hostels in Milan for Backpackers and Students .

Is Italy or the UK Easier for Transportation? Which is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

The UK generally offers better transportation than Italy.

The UK has a great public transit system. Public transit in the cities, combined with the national railway system makes it very easy for travelers to move around the country without their own car. London as well as other major cities are also hubs for airlines with connections abroad. Also, as an island nation, a huge number of ferry services connect Britain to Ireland as well as mainland Europe. The smaller islands just offshore are also connected by regular ferry routes, too.

• Traveling by train is extremely popular.
• It's possible to travel by bus.
• It's possible to travel by car.
• Travel by airplane is possible.

Public transit in Italy is fairly effecient and thorough. Nationally, the major cities and smaller towns in Italy are connected with a terrific rail system, and high-speed trains connect major destinations. Furthermore, the cities have terrific public transit systems that include subways, trams, and buses. Getting around Italy is quite easy.

See also Transportation in Venice , and Transportation in Rome .

• It's very easy and convenient to travel by train.
• Travel by bus is possible.
• Traveling on cruise ships and excursions is very common and fairly easy.
• It's quite common to travel by car.
• It's possible to travel by airplane.

Is Italy or the UK more Comfortable for a Trip?

Italy and The UK are both modern and comfortable places to visit.

Italy is a very comfortable and luxurious destination with plenty of hotels, restaurants, and activities. This is a country with a huge infrastructure for tourists and travelers. With a wide range of nice hotels and luxurious resorts, a great public transit network of high-speed trains, fine-dining and casual restaurants, nightlife, and modern conveniences, Italy can be extremely comfortable for travelers.

Generally, The UK is considered to be a comfortable and luxurious place to visit. Whether you're traveling on a budget or looking for higher-end luxurious accommodations, Great Britain offers a high-standard of living and travel for visitors. As a modern, affluent nation, tourists will find comfortable amenities at any price point along with an extensive network of transportation to get around the country. Nice restaurants, delicious food, and an abundant supply of professional tour operators and entertainment venues make a trip to the U.K. very easy, convenient, and comfortable.

Is Italy or the UK more Touristy?

Italy usually has many more tourists than The UK.

Italy is often swarmed with visitors, so sometimes this might be a challenge. This is one of the most visited countries in the world for tourists. Its major cities such as Rome, Venice, Florence, and Milan host millions of visitors every year because of their world-famous attractions, cuisine, and history. Even some of the smaller towns and rural areas see plenty of tourists. Whether you're visiting the coastline or an inland region, it can be hard to escape other travelers.

The UK sees a large number of visitors. London, Edinburgh, various castles, seaside resorts, and some of the national parks can be heavily touristy, especially in the peak summer months. Some of the smaller popular cities and towns for visitors also include Stratford upon Avon, Bath, Cambridge, Inverness, Stonehenge, and more. Despite the number of tourists, these destinations are still very manageable if you're on a trip and wish to see everything. It's also quite easy to avoid the crowds by escaping the larger cities or travel during non-peak seasons.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Italy , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy , The Best Historical Tours in Italy , The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy , The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy , The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy , The Best Adventure Tours to Italy , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy , The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy , The Best Walking Tours in Italy , The Best Luxury Tours to Italy , The Best Budget Tours to Italy , The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy , The Best Contiki Tours to Italy , The Best G Adventures Tours to Italy , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome , The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome , The Best 2-Week Tours from Rome , The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom , The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom , The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom , The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom , The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom , The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom , The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom , The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom , The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom , The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom , The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh , The Best 3-Day Tours from London , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh , The Best 10-Day Tours from London , The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh , The Best 2-Week Tours from London , and The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh .

Should I spend more time in the UK or Italy?

How long in italy or the uk.

Italy and the United Kingdom both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. In our opinion, Italy has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Italy than the United Kingdom . In general, 7-14 days is a good amount of time for Italy, and 5-14 days is enough time in the United Kingdom.

Families should spend more time in Italy than the United Kingdom. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Italy, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Italy than the United Kingdom. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Italy that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Italy than the United Kingdom if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Italy.

• How many days should I spend in Italy or the UK? Ideal Length of Stay --> Italy 7-14   UK   5-14

A weekend in Italy or the UK?

Italy is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in the UK. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Italy or the UK?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Italy. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, five days is probably not enough time to see everything. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The UK is a fun place to experience. In the UK, many people enjoy the nightlife, live music, and food that this destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Italy or the UK?

Many travelers enjoy the adventure travel, national parks, and history and culture when visiting the historical destination of Italy. This country offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In the UK, many people enjoy the live music, food, and hiking that this prosperous destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Two weeks in Italy or the UK?

Many travelers enjoy the adventure travel, national parks, and history and culture when visiting the historical destination of Italy. This country offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have two weeks, this is a great place to go. With all of its activities, you can easily fill two weeks here.

In the UK, many people enjoy the live music, food, and hiking that this prosperous destination offers. Plenty of people spend two weeks in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. This would be the perfect place to spend two weeks, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Which country is cheaper, the UK or Italy?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Italy Prices UK Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Italy € 167 UK € 178

The average daily cost (per person) in Italy is €167, while the average daily cost in the UK is €178. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each country. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Italy and the UK in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Italy € 85 UK € 89
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Italy € 170 UK € 178

Compare Hotels in Italy and the United Kingdom

Looking for a hotel in Italy or the United Kingdom? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Italy

Hotels in the United Kingdom

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Italy € 26 UK € 34

Typical Local Transportation prices in Italy

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Italy:

• Metro Ride (for Two) € 2.00
• Venice 12 Hour Transport Pass € 16
• Train to the Airport € 15
• Taxi Ride Within City € 8.00
• Train to Airport € 7.00
• Vaporetto Ride € 6.50
• 1 Day Travel Card € 18
• Taxi from Airport € 25
• In City Parking (Full Day) € 30
• Bus Pass (Full Day) € 5.00
• 7 Day Transport Card (for Two) € 101
• Malpensa Airport Train (for Two) € 22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Italy

Also for Italy, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• Aurora car service Transfers from Sorrento to Naples / viceversa: $83
• Fiumicino Airport Rome (FCO) to Florence - Arrival Private Transfer: $224
• Florence to Pisa Airport (PSA) - Departure Private Transfer: $74
• Malpensa Airport (MXP) to St Moritz, Switzerland - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $293
• Malpensa Airport (MXP) to Zermatt, Switzerland - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $280
• Malpensa Milan Airport (MXP) to Verona - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $275
• Milan to Bergamo Airport (BGY) - Departure Private Transfer : $46
• Milan to Como hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $107
• Private One-way Airport Transfer (Florence Airport To/From Florence Hotels): $65
• Private Transfer Malpensa Airport (MXP) to Venice, Piazzale Roma: $212
• Private Transfer from Fiumicino Airport to Civitavecchia Cruise Port: $207
• Private Transfer from Florence to Milan: $216

Typical Local Transportation prices in the UK

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in the UK:

• Taxi Ride € 17
• Heathrow Express € 21
• Luggage Storage € 9.33
• Local Bus € 4.20
• Rail to Airport € 13
• London Map € 1.50
• Oyster Card € 42
• 24 Hr Bus Passes (for 2) € 23
• Ferry to Isle of Wight € 18
• Parking € 2.33
• Toll Way - Mersey tunnel € 1.98
• City bike hire Liverpool € 7.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in the UK

Some specific examples of transportation prices in the UK:

• Windsor Castle to/from Central London | Private Transfers: $68
• Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $320
• Windsor Castle - Private Transfer - Pickup & Return: $291
• Warner Bros. Studio Tour London The Making of Harry Potter with return transfers: $125
• Warner Bros. Studio London: Tour with Bus Transfers: $147
• VIP Airport Transfer: $139
• Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in London HTL - APT (LGW,STN): $135
• Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in London APT-HTL(STN,LYC): $116
• Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in Edinburgh HTL-APT (EDI): $150
• Trump Turnberry Hotel Resort Luxury Transfer: $227
• Transfers between Southampton and London via famous attractions: $152
• Transfer in private car from Central London - London Airport (LGW): $96

Is it cheaper to fly into Italy or Italy?

Prices for flights to both the UK and Italy change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Italy € 45 UK € 43

Typical Food prices in Italy

For Italy, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:

• Casual Lunch (for Two) € 14
• Panini Sandwich € 4.00
• Gelato € 6.00
• 4 Ice Cream Sandwiches € 2.99
• Artichoke & Mushroom Pizza € 7.90
• Dinner € 75
• Cheese € 3.10
• Pizza € 14
• Dinner for Two at a Pub € 60
• Gelato € 2.20
• Dinner at Pizzeria (for 2) € 24
• Gelato and Coffee € 7.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Italy

For Italy, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Rome: Award-Winning Roman Food Tours: $15
• Palermo Street Food Tour including Market and City Centre: $21
• Milan: PYT Milano Dinner Show with Live Music and DJ Set: $21
• Florence: Walking Food Tour at Sunset with Tastings: $23
• Florence Street Food Tour: Market & City Center: $25
• Hard Rock Cafe Florence with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
• Milan: Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $29
• Venice: Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $29
• Wine Tasting and Dinner/Lunch or Aperitivo in Franciacorta Winery: $32
• Rome Food Tour with Wine Tasting and Farmers Market in Prati Area: $32
• Food Tour of the Vatican with Farmers Market and Wine Tasting: $32
• Vatican and Trionfale Farmers Market Food tour and Wine tasting : $32

Typical Food prices in the UK

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in the UK:

• Lunch at Starbucks € 15
• Tea € 7.00
• Morning Tea € 2.91
• Ice Cream € 3.50
• A Quick Snack € 4.66
• Dinner € 26
• Breakfast € 9.91
• Dinner at Filling Station € 12
• Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason € 46
• Lunch € 17
• Morning Tea € 7.40
• Pastry € 5.83

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in the UK

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in the UK.

• Borough Market Food Tour - Self Guided: $6.47
• Dinner and Live DJ at A Fancy Restaurant: $16
• (Thur 7pm) Comedy Magic Show includes 1x Pizza & 2 glasses of Prosecco: $25
• Manchester: Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $29
• Edinburgh: Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $31
• Hard Rock Cafe Manchester with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $33
• London: Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $34
• Pistachio LOVERS Italian Dinner Experience: $35
• Picadilly Circus: Hard Rock Cafe Set Menu Lunch or Dinner: $36
• Tea and Doughnuts: Borough Market Walking Food Tour: $44
• Breakfast Food Tour in York: $51
• London: Pizza Making Cookery Class: $52

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Italy € 26 UK € 32

Typical Entertainment prices in Italy

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Italy's activities, tours, and tickets:

• Venice Boat Ride € 15
• Bell tower of St. Mark Entrance Fee € 8.00
• Gondola Ride (for Group) € 80
• Admission to Uffizi € 11
• Phone Booking Fee for Uffizi € 4.00
• Firenze Card (for Two) € 100
• Rome Museum Vaticano (for 2) € 69
• Coliseum Tickets (for Two) € 33
• Audioguides at Uffizi (for Two) € 20
• Roma Pass € 30
• Hop on Hop Off Bus (All Day) € 20
• Segway Tour € 75

Tours and Activities in Italy

For Italy, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

• The Best tour in Florence: Renaissance and Medici Tales: $0.02
• Cagliari: Train ticket to travel between airport and city: $1.59
• Torino: Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $1.92
• Venezia: Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $2.13
• Florence: Dark Mysteries and Legends Guided Walking Tour: $2.66
• Florence: Renaissance and Medici Tales Guided Walking Tour: $2.66
• Catania: One-way tickets to travel between airport and city: $2.69
• Genoa: First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
• Turin: First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
• Siena: First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
• Bergamo Old Town: Discovery Walk & Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
• Bologna: First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20

Typical Entertainment prices in the UK

Here are a few typical costs in the UK for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:

• Two Tickets to a Concert € 97
• Show Tickets € 37
• Movie Tickets € 9.33
• London Symphony Orchestra € 40
• Movie Tickets for Two € 14
• Donation for Storytellers € 7.00
• Bike Rentals (for 2) € 23
• Newspaper € 0.99
• Luss Highland Games Entrance Fee (for 2) € 14
• Two Bike Rental € 40
• Thermal Bath Spa € 41
• Warwick Castle (2) € 69

Tours and Activities in the UK

Here are a few actual costs in the UK for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

• Belfast A Music and StreetArt Experience. Small Gr Walking Tour : $25
• Belfast The Troubles cab tour Adventure 2hrs personal guide : $113
• Boogie Shoes Christmas Silent Disco Walking Tours London : $32
• Boogie Shoes Silent Disco Walking Tour Camden: $63
• DAY TOUR; loch Ness, Coo's,Drams,Battles &Stones,from INVERNESS : $163
• Dorset Pint Glass Explore Breweries and Orchards Tour : $164
• Edinburgh's Landscapes Tours with a Local Guide: Private & Personalized: $152
• Food Walking Guided Tour of Perth: $82
• Fully Guided Bath Ghost Tours: $20
• Guided Historic Walking Tour of Cambridge with Guide and Peek: $25
• Historical Private Tour in Belfast : $76
• Inverness Tour-Cawdor Castle,Culloden Battlefield,Clava Cairns : $139
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Italy € 17 UK € 15

Typical Alcohol prices in Italy

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Italy:

• Two Beers € 5.00
• Bottle of Wine € 15
• 1/2 Litre of wine € 9.00
• 2 Glasses of Wine € 7.00
• Beer with Dinner (for 2) € 4.00
• 2 Glasses of Wine € 8.60
• 1/2 Liter Wine € 5.20
• Glass of Chianti € 4.20
• Bottle of Wine € 7.50
• Bottle of Wine € 6.50
• Pint of Beer € 6.34
• Beer € 4.90

Sample the Local Flavors in Italy

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Italy:

• Organic wine tasting: $13
• Pub Crawl Palermo: $16
• Naples: Guided Pub Crawl in the Old Town: $16
• Lucca: Wine Tasting Experience - Tenuta Adamo Winery: $16
• Wine Tasting by CarusVini in San Casciano in val di Pesa: $16
• Food and Wine Tour: visit to the oil mill with tasting: $17
• Visit among vineyards and wine cellar with wine tasting in Nizza Monferrato: $17
• Mastio Brewery Private Tour With Beer Tasting: $17
• Wine tasting and visit to the wine cellar: $20
• Tenuta Mareli - Wine Tasting in Tuscany: $21
• Private Wine Tasting in Mezzane di Sotto: $21
• Lucca: Guided Winery Tour with Wine Tasting: $21

Typical Alcohol prices in the UK

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in the UK:

• A Couple Beers € 10
• Beers at pub € 6.30
• Beers at Pub € 7.11
• Beers € 5.83
• Beers € 9.33
• Beer & Wine € 17
• Drinks at the Pub (for 2) € 8.80
• Pitcher of Pimms € 17
• Drinks at the Walnut Pub (for 2) € 12
• Bottle of Wine € 14
• Ciders at Kilted Skirlie € 4.08
• Half Pint at Tollbooth Tavern € 1.92

Sample the Local Flavors in the UK

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in the UK:

• Bristol’s Best Brewery Taprooms: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
• Edinburgh: Pub Crawl with Free Shots & Discounts: $11
• Historic Pub Walking Tour of London: $13
• Belfast Pub Crawl: $15
• Edinburgh Bar Crawl: 5+ Venues, Free Shots, Free Club Entry: $19
• Guided Distillery Tour in South Wales: $19
• 1 Hour Folklore Group Tour Through The Stirling Distillery: $19
• Pub Crawl in Edinburgh: $19
• FunnyBoyz Liverpool - Drag Shows, Tributes, Brunches & Bar Crawls: $19
• Tayport Distillery Tour & Tastings: $19
• London: 2-Hour Haunted Pub Walking Tour: $20

When comparing the travel costs between Italy and the UK, we can see that the United Kingdom is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

When is the best time to visit Italy or the UK?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Italy is a peninsula in the Mediterranean Sea, and thus has a much warmer climate than most of its European neighbors. The southern regions can be especially warm year-round, and very hot in the summer. The northern regions are home to a more mountainous landscape, so they can have cold and snowy winters. But in general, any time of the year is a great time to visit.

As an island nation in the north, the U.K. experiences cold winters and mild summers. It's common for it to rain most of the year, although it's not usually a pour, but more of a drizzle most of the time. In Scotland and Northern Ireland in particular it can be more rainy than in the southern areas, but not by much. Despite the cold and rain, it does not snow very frequently except for in the mountain areas. When visiting, prepare for cooler weather and rain, even in the summer months.

Should I visit Italy or the UK in the Summer?

Both the UK and Italy during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Italy for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to the UK because of the beaches, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Rome is a little warmer than London in the summer. The daily temperature in Rome averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and London fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Rome. In the summer, Rome often gets more sunshine than London. Rome gets 338 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while London receives 195 hours of full sun.

Rome usually gets less rain in July than London. Rome gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while London receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Summer Average Temperatures July Rome 25°C (77°F)   Rome   18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Italy or the UK in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Italy and the UK. The autumn months attract visitors to Italy because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to the UK this time of year.

In the autumn, Rome is a little warmer than London. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Rome in October average around 17°C (63°F), and London averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Rome usually receives more sunshine than London during autumn. Rome gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while London receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Rome usually receives more rain than London. Rome gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while London receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

• Autumn Average Temperatures October Rome 17°C (63°F)   Rome   12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Italy or the UK in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Italy as well as the UK. The skiing, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Italy this time of year. Also, many travelers come to the UK for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in London. In January, Rome is generally much warmer than London. Daily temperatures in Rome average around 8°C (47°F), and London fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Rome often gets more sunshine than London. Rome gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while London receives 52 hours of full sun.

Rome usually gets more rain in January than London. Rome gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while London receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Winter Average Temperatures January Rome 8°C (47°F)   Rome   4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Italy or the UK in the Spring?

Both the UK and Italy are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Italy for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to the UK in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Rome is much warmer than London in the spring. The daily temperature in Rome averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and London fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rome. Rome usually receives more sunshine than London during spring. Rome gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while London receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Rome usually receives more rain than London. Rome gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while London receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

• Spring Average Temperatures April Rome 14°C (57°F)   Rome   9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for London and Rome

Related articles for italy, related articles for the uk.

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• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

Train drivers will stage a fresh wave of strikes and overtime bans in May, causing disruption to the rail network.

The strikes are part of a long-running dispute over pay.

Members of Aslef union at 16 rail companies will walk out on different days from 7 to 9 May.

Additionally, all members will refuse to work any overtime from 6 May to 11 May.

Here is a full list of the services affected by strikes and when.

Rail strike dates

Tuesday 7 May

Strikes will affect c2c, Greater Anglia, GTR Great Northern Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern, Gatwick Express and South Western Railway.

Wednesday 8 May

Strikes will affect Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Great Western Railway and West Midlands Trains.

Thursday 9 May

Strikes will affect LNER, Northern Trains and TransPennine Express.

Overtime ban dates

From Monday 6 May to Saturday 11 May union members will not work overtime.

Overtime bans, an action short of a strike, means some services may not be running or may be reduced as drivers refuse to work their rest days.

People are advised to check before they travel, as some areas may have no service.

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

How do strikes and overtime bans affect services?

Strikes tend to mean services on lines where members are participating are extremely affected or cancelled entirely, whereas overtime bans often lead to reduced services.

Are there strikes on the Tube too?

There have been regular strikes on London Underground too recently, and while there aren't any planned walkouts for drivers, customer service managers are set to walk out on Friday 26 April in a dispute over terms and conditions.

There will also be an overtime ban for the customer service managers on the following days:

Monday 29 April

Tuesday 30 April

Wednesday 1 May

Tuesday 2 May

Wednesday 3 May

Thursday 4 May

Friday 5 May

The Transport Salaried Staffs' Association (TSSA) says the action by its members is likely to cause Tube stations to close at the last minute, including on the Saturday following the strike (27 April), while TfL has said on its website "some stations may need to close at short notice".

Despite the warning, a TfL spokesperson has said they aren't expecting significant disruption.

This action follows strike action taken by the same workers on 10 April, which the TSSA said had a "real impact" with "many stations shut at short notice".

They say they are "extremely concerned" about TfL's 'Stations Changes' proposals.

"We have made it clear that our union will not accept the continued threats to our members' roles, locations, terms, and conditions to stand unchallenged," a TSSA spokesperson said.

"We will continue to take sustained action until London Underground is prepared to negotiate with us in good faith."

Commenting on the impending strikes, a TfL spokesperson said: "We are disappointed that TSSA is continuing with this strike action following a consultation process.

"While we don't expect this action will cause significant disruption, we urge TSSA to continue to work with us to help find a resolution.

"There are no planned job losses as part of these vital changes which will improve the service we provide to customers at our stations."

How can I stay in the loop?

You can use the National Rail's journey planner to see when trains are running.

Be sure to check it close to when you plan to travel, as it will be updated regularly.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

Why are the strikes still happening?

Aslef rejected a two-year offer of 4% in 2022 and another 4% this year, saying it is way below inflation, and is linked to changes in terms and conditions.

Aslef said train drivers have not had an increase in salary for five years, since their last pay deals expired in 2019.

The union said after its members voted overwhelmingly in February to continue taking industrial action, it asked the train operating companies to hold talks.

General secretary Mick Whelan said the year-old pay offer of 4% and another 4% was "dead in the water".

Related Topics

• London Underground
• Rail strikes

News | Health

Newborn baby flown from UK to Italy in military plane for life-saving treatment

A one-month-old boy with a congenital heart condition has been airlifted from an NHS hospital to Rome to undergo life-saving surgery.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni personally intervened so the child could travel, it has been reported.

Photos of the transfer show an Italian ambulance on board a military cargo plane, reported to have been sent to collect the boy from Bristol Royal Hospital for Children.

The child’s parents said doctors told them crucial treatment was not available in this country, The Times reported.

Hospital staff reportedly agreed to allow the boy to be moved after seeing plans for his transfer and treatment.

A lawyer representing the baby’s family thanked “all those who worked hard to transfer the little [boy]”, a translation of a post on his X account said.

“A big thank you from the family to all those who worked hard to transfer the little [boy], less than a month old, from the United Kingdom to Rome,” said Simone Pillon.

“Italians are like that: they love life,” he added.

The baby’s Italian father told The Times: “My wife and I are very happy and relieved… [Meloni and the Italian authorities] actively took action to make the transfer of our son possible.”

The father also thanked the British medical team “for smoothly authorising and supporting us and our son through this process”.

A University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust spokesperson confirmed: “We worked with Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital to support the safe transfer of a newborn patient to Rome.

“Due to patient confidentiality, it would not be appropriate to go into specific details regarding a patient’s care.”

The Bambino Gesù hospital, which is controlled by the Vatican, is the same hospital offered to treat a British baby girl with a rare mitochondrial disease last year.

Eight-month-old Indi Gregory was at the centre of a legal fight before her life-support treatment was withdrawn and she died at a hospice.

James Cleverly: Italian bid to stop migrant boats ‘mirrors’ UK effort

James Cleverly to discuss curbing illegal migration on Italy visit

Allman Brothers Band guitarist Dickey Betts dies aged 80

Celebrate Art of London’s collaborations with women artists

Her parents Dean Gregory and Claire Staniforth lost legal bids in the High Court and Court of Appeal for specialists to keep treating her.

The couple also failed in a bid to transfer Indi to the Rome hospital for specialist treatment, with the Italian government later offering to pay for Indi’s funeral.

UK home secretary to visit Italy to discuss stopping migrants arriving on boats

LONDON — Britain’s Home Secretary, James Cleverly, is visiting Italy as part of the U.K. government’s efforts to crack down on migrants arriving by small boats.

Cleverly will meet his Italian counterpart, Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi, and discuss how Italy and Britain can expand their joint work to stop migrants in north Africa from making often perilous journeys across the Mediterranean Sea, officials said Tuesday.

Cleverly will also visit Lampedusa , the southernmost island of Italy which receives the majority of migrants arriving in the country. In September, some 7,000 people arrived from Tunisia on the tiny island in a span of roughly 24 hours, overwhelming the local migrant reception center.

The visit comes as British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stepped up his calls for the U.K. Parliament to approve his plan to deport some asylum-seekers to Rwanda.

Sunak signed a deal with the east Africa nation two years ago and insisted that his deportation plan is a key deterrent that will help “stop the boats” — small unseaworthy vessels carrying migrants across the English Channel. But the proposal has been repeatedly blocked by court rulings and human rights campaigners who say it is illegal and inhumane.

British officials say the U.K. and Italy are both “global leaders in forging bold and novel solutions to illegal migration.”

“Our countries have shown we are willing to challenge the status quo and use innovative solutions to tackle the issues, while ferociously going after the people-smuggling gangs,” Cleverly said in a statement.

His office referred to a five-year deal recently agreed between Italy and Albania that will see Albania — which is not part of the European Union — house up to 3,000 migrants in two centers for Italy while their asylum requests are being processed.

Like Sunak’s Rwanda plan, that deal was also widely criticized by rights groups.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 118 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

For more information, read our guidance on healthcare when travelling in Europe .

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccination recommendations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Italy guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Italy, including the Alps and the Dolomites. More information about altitude sickness is available from TravelHealthPro .

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne disease, dengue fever, in Italy. You should take appropriate precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes  .

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

TravelHealthPro explains best practice when travelling with medicines .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

Health insurance cards

Apply for a free UK Global Health Insurance Card ( GHIC ) before leaving the UK. If you already have a European Health Insurance Card ( EHIC ) it will still be valid as long as it remains in date.

The GHIC or EHIC entitles you to state- provided medical treatment necessary during your trip. Any treatment provided is on the same terms as Italian nationals. If you don’t have your EHIC with you or you’ve lost it, contact the NHS Overseas Healthcare Team .

It’s important to take out appropriate travel insurance for your needs. A GHIC or EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance and you should have both before you travel. A GHIC or EHIC does not cover all health-related costs, for example, medical repatriation, ongoing medical treatment and non-urgent treatment. Read more about what your travel insurance should cover .

You can find details of English-speaking doctors in Italy on our list of healthcare providers .

GHIC and or EHIC cover state healthcare only, not private treatment. You will be responsible for the cost of any treatment provided by a private doctor or private clinic.

Pharmacies and doctors

Unlike in the UK, you will need to go to a pharmacy to get most over-the-counter medicines. Pharmacies are widely available and are usually identified by a green cross. UK prescriptions are not accepted, though you may be able to buy an equivalent medication from the pharmacy. Alternatively, you can visit an Italian GP to obtain a local prescription. Prescription medicines are not free in Italy, but with an EHIC or GHIC , and an Italian prescription, you will pay a reduced rate.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also guidance on TravelHealthPro .

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Rugby Union

Autumn Internationals 2024: Fixtures, schedule and kick-off times for England, Wales, Ireland, Scotland and more

When are the rugby Autumn Internationals? Who do England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales play and where? Key dates, fixtures and full schedule as Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Argentina all travel to the Northern Hemisphere for Tests in the Autumn Nations Series

Tuesday 23 April 2024 12:41, UK

The full schedule has been confirmed for rugby's Autumn Internationals, with the giants of the Southern Hemisphere once again coming to take on the Six Nations teams in a busy month of rugby.

England will have Tests against New Zealand and Australia before hosting world champions South Africa, a repeat of their World Cup semi-final, before completing their run of fixtures against Japan.

Six Nations champions Ireland have Friday night matches against New Zealand and Argentina ahead of further games against Fiji and Australia, while the All Blacks' autumn tour also contains trips to France and Italy.

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South Africa also take on Scotland and Wales during their three-Test tour, with Scotland having further games against Fiji, Portugal and Australia during a busy November. Wales' meeting with the Springboks follows matches with Fiji and Australia.

Autumn Internationals: Fixtures and UK kick-off times

Saturday november 2.

3.10pm England vs New Zealand, Twickenham Stadium

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5.40pm Scotland vs Fiji, Murrayfield

Friday November 8

8.10pm - Ireland vs New Zealand, Aviva Stadium

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Saturday November 9

3.10pm England vs Australia, Twickenham

5.40pm Italy vs Argentina, TBC

8.10pm France vs Japan, Stade de France

Sunday November 10

1.40pm - Wales vs Fiji, Principality Stadium

4.10pm Scotland vs South Africa, Murrayfield

Friday November 15

8.10pm - Ireland vs Argentina, Aviva Stadium

Saturday November 16

3.10pm Scotland vs Portugal, Murrayfield

5.40pm England vs South Africa, Twickenham

8.10pm France vs New Zealand, Stade de France

🏉 Here are your 2024 #AutumnNationsSeries Fixtures 🙌 pic.twitter.com/S8GUhS2bw5 — Autumn Nations Series (@autumnnations) April 22, 2024

Sunday November 17

1.40pm - Italy vs Georgia, TBC

4.10pm - Wales vs Australia, Principality Stadium

Friday November 22

8.10pm France vs Argentina, Stade de France

Saturday November 23

3.10pm - Ireland vs Fiji, Aviva Stadium

5.40pm - Wales vs South Africa, Principality Stadium

8.10pm - Italy vs New Zealand, TBC

Sunday November 24

1.40pm Scotland vs Australia, Murrayfield

4.10pm England vs Japan, Twickenham

Saturday November 30

3.10pm - Ireland vs Australia, Aviva Stadium

Watch every game of the 2025 British and Irish Lions tour of Australia, including all three Test matches against the Wallabies, exclusively live on Sky Sports . Also stream with NOW .

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