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France has raised its terror alert warning to the highest level. Expect high-level security measures to be in place throughout the country, including at schools, places of worship, shopping centres and landmarks. Be aware of your surroundings, monitor local media, and follow the advice of the local authorities. If you plan to travel to France to commemorate Anzac Day, understand the risks and plan ahead.

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Italy Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from Australia 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.

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Can I travel to Italy from Australia?

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Italy.

Can I travel to Italy if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from Australia can enter Italy without restrictions.

Can I travel to Italy without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from Australia can enter Italy without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Italy?

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

Can I travel to Italy without quarantine?

Travellers from Australia 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 .

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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Covid-19: travel information

Considering the epidemiological situation, Italy has foreign travel restrictions in place depending on where you are travelling from/to. 

An interactive questionnaire is available from https://infocovid.viaggiaresicuri.it  to check the rules currently in force regarding travel to and from Italy.

Please find below a list of other useful web pages:

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Italy has been hit hard by the global pandemic. The land of pasta and sunshine was the first European country to experience an outbreak of COVID-19 in February 2020, and the first to go into lockdown, sending a ripple of shock across the globe. 

Over the past 18 months, Italy has navigated a rocky pathway of staged openings, sudden outbreaks, colour coded systems and regional shutdowns. Winter was long and tough, and their vaccination program painfully slow to get going. 

But by the end of May 2021, they were finally ready to swing their doors open again to tourists.

First EU residents were allowed to visit, provided they were vaccinated or recently tested. Then eventually the welcome was extended further to tourists from the US, UK and Australia. 

See also: Italy bucket list: 7 pasta dishes you must try once

See also: Italy opens borders after two-month shutdown

As an Australian currently in France, I was lucky enough to be one of the first tourists to come through the door when Italy reopened – and I was surprised by what I discovered. I expected them to be stressed and anxious, and indeed many people were clearly impacted by the restrictions. 

But now they are finally back in business. The terraces and beaches are buzzing once again. Restaurants are serving delicious meals and museums have reopened to the public. As a result, the locals are all happy and relaxed – especially after the national team won the Euro cup football final. 

They’re relieved to be through the hard times and thrilled to be open again to tourists. And they can’t wait to welcome Aussies back. Time and again I was told by the locals how much they miss their Australian visitors, and how much they are looking forward to seeing them again. Most people I spoke to had a family member or a friend back in Australia they were eager to see. And everyone spoke fondly of Aussie tourists in general. 

Meanwhile, most covid restrictions have been dropped across Italy, except for masks in some places and strict cleaning protocols for accommodation. Although the covid numbers have started to creep up a little recently, due to the insidious spread of the Delta strain, this isn’t enough to dampen the Italian spirit.

We found the locals extremely attentive and patient, embracing a slower pace and very happy to give assistance and personalised service to us. Travelling around the country felt intimate and very local, a bit like I imagine it might have been back in the 70s or 80s, when tourism was much more relaxed. And I definitely had the feeling that the locals would like it to stay that way, with the recent banning of cruise ships in Venice hopefully a sign of a turning of the tide. 

It was incredible to gaze upon the Trevi fountain without having to first battle through a crowd just to get a glimpse. To wander down the main street of Positano with only a handful of other people around, rather than rubbing shoulders with sweaty hordes. To sit in the empty piazza in front of Florence’s Santa Croce church and soak up the hum of locals going about their day. To wander alone among the magical trulli houses in Alberobello in Puglia without the distraction of other visitors. 

If anything, the global pandemic has given Italy a chance to rediscover its spirit, strengthen its essence and become even more beautiful and special. 

It’s anyone’s guess when exactly Aussies will be able to get back to Italy again, but there’s no doubt it WILL happen. When it does, you’d better believe, the Italians are waiting and ready to welcome you back with open arms. 

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101 Essential travel tips for Italy

This article may contain compensated links. See our full disclosure here

Buon giorno! Whether you are visiting Italy for the first or tenth time, it’s always exciting. 

Before you depart, let’s make sure you are ready.

After countless trips to our favorite country, we compiled this bumper list of things you should know when traveling to Italy.

Our travel tips for Italy include advice on Italian culture and etiquette as well as practical information about transport, accommodation and much more for your trip. 

What's in this article

Italy is a big and diverse country

Italian language tips, italian culture tips, food and eating in italy, transport and getting around in italy, money in italy, accommodation, internet access, attractions and museums, best souvenirs from italy.

From the alps in the north to the rocky shores of Sicily and all the magnificent cities in between, there are so many different landscapes and cultures to explore in Italy.

Not so long ago, you needed to catch overnight trains to cross the country. Don’t underestimate how long it will take to travel from north to south if you are straying from the major cities. 

Italy only became a unified country in 1871. Prior to that, the area we know as Italy today was made up of several kingdoms who each had their own identities, culture, food and language. 

These differences continue today, so much so that Italians from the north may not be able to understand southerners when they speak in their local dialect.

However, in most situations these days everyone speaks standard Italian. 

While many people, particularly in tourist areas, speak and understand English it is the polite thing to do to try and learn some basic Italian phrases.  People always appreciate it when you make an effort with their language.

Always greet people when you enter a shop, restaurant or attraction. Saying Buon Giorno! (good morning) to everyone you meet is an essential part of Italian culture and it is considered rude if you don’t make this small effort.

Learn a few words

Here are the most basic phrases you should know:

These days there are many tools to help you learn how to use and pronounce words. We like Duolingo  a free online tool that can help you to learn Italian at your own pace. 

If you want to get up to speed quickly, this Italian language course for travelers has great reviews. 

While on the road you can’t beat Google Translate  – it even helps you with pronunciation.

If you are traveling with kids, Italians love it when your children call out Buon Giorno! and Grazie!  Our children quickly learnt that this was a sure fire way to score a few treats – extra scoops of gelato and lollipops 

Communicating isn’t just about words

Watching people speak to each other in Italy is so entertaining. Italians use their faces and hands to communicate as well as words. Decoding the signals takes some practice so here’s a fun video to get you started.

I’ve also learnt over the years, especially being married to someone from an Italian background, that speaking loudly and in what I consider to be an angry tone does not necessarily mean the other person is angry or picking a fight. 

It’s just part of the communication process. 

Out of bounds topic

Thanks to books and movies, many people are fascinated with the Italian mafia and their impact on daily life. This is not a subject you should raise in Italy. 

The mafia are a series of organised crime groups that operated mainly in the south and in Sicily. People in the north are not interested and find the topic distasteful. In the south, you don’t know whose toes you might tread on. It’s a subject best avoided.

If you are stuck for conversation topics, just talk about food. Italians love talking about what, where and with whom they are eating.

Despite their differences, Italians have some cultural norms you should be aware of when you visit. Italy is a conservative Catholic country and loud raucous behaviour, and particularly drunkenness is not well received. 

In fact, there are now laws in place to fine tourists who disrespect national monuments like the Trevi Fountain in Rome and Piazza della Signoria in Florence by going for a swim or using them as a toilet. Which is as it should be.

Italians have an essential concept in their culture known as “ bella figura ” meaning – the beautiful figure. It refers to presentation and how one is perceived.

Bella Figura drives the Italian way of dressing and their attention to grooming but it also refers to behaviour. Knowing how to behave and showing good manners is an important part of this concept. 

How to dress in Italy

Italians are snappy dressers and will always make an effort to be well groomed and look sharp. They wear fitted, pressed clothing (even jeans) and wear classic styles and neutral colors. You rarely see Italians in sports clothes on the street and I have never seen anyone wearing flip flops.

What not to wear

If you don’t want to stand out as a tourist in Italy then you should follow the following rules:

• don’t wear sports clothes, yoga pants or sweats unless you are exercising
• flip flops are for the beach only and will not support your feet over cobblestones
• if you must wear sneakers make them stylish – like these ones
• avoid very bright colors and big logose
• very tiny shorts and skirts are not recommended

Instead, wear this in Italy

Stick to neutrals (navy, black, white, grey) and well fitted clothes. Then accessorize for the season. Your sunglasses and a scarf will get you through most situations. 

Above all, bring comfortable shoes. 

More information on how to dress in Italy including a capsule wardrobe and packing list in our Italy packing guide .

Visiting churches

You are sure to be visiting at least one church on any trip to Italy. After all, they are the cultural hub of every town and village in the country.

Be respectful and make sure you cover up. That means no bare shoulders or knees. So tank tops, short skirts and shorts should not be worn. You must also remove your hat.

While in a church, try to remain silent or use a very low tone of voice if you need to speak. Refrain from eating, drinking and chewing gum inside churches.

Afternoon walk or “La Passeggiata”

One of my favorite traditions in Italy is their afternoon walk known as La Passeggiata. Italians of all ages take a leisurely early evening walk or stroll, just to socialize and catch up on all the local news.

Between the hours of 5 and 7pm across the country, from the smallest towns and villages to the grand piazzas of Rome and Florence, locals mingle and stop for a chat with friends and family before dinner. 

Join in the fun but be sure to make an effort with your presentation ( bella figura ) and take it slow, stopping for a pre dinner drink or gelato as the sun sets. 

You can’t talk about Italian culture without talking about food. Italians love their food  – talking about what they are going to eat and what they have eaten is one of their favorite pastimes.

For example, my Italian mother-in-law has an ongoing conversation with her best friend about how to make a certain type of cookie. That discussion has been ongoing for over 50 years! 

Note that Italian food is really something only foreigners discuss. Italian cuisine is regional, each area has its own local traditions, cooking methods and dishes.

For example, Milan and the Lombardy region are famous for risotto while pizza was invented and is most traditional in the south. While in Venice they enjoy small bites called cicchetti that are a bit like Spanish tapas.

Read our food guides: Rome , Venice , Brescia and Sicilian desserts

Must try experience – a local Italian food festival – sagra

When you are in Italy, embrace this culture, taste the local dishes and enjoy every last bite. I don’t know why pasta and gelato taste better in Italy, they just do!

Meal times in Italy

Mealtimes in Italy are quite different to what you are probably used to.

Breakfast (collazione) is eaten between 8am and 11am and is usually very light – a coffee and perhaps a small pastry (cornetto) or some fruit. 

Lunch (pranzo) is served between 12:30pm and 2pm and usually includes pasta and/or protein with salad or vegetables

Aperitivo – a light pre dinner snack eaten between 5pm and 8pm – see below

Dinner (cena) is not served until at least 8pm until 10:30pm and follows the same structure as lunch. 

Most Italians will make either lunch or dinner their main meal and have a panino (sandwich), salad (insalata) or even a pizza for the other meal.

Gelato may be eaten at any time of day. In Sicily they eat it for breakfast in summer! Not all gelato is great however.  Learn how to find the best gelato here

Many restaurants close on Mondays

Italian menu tips

So you know how to order from the menu in Italy, here is the basic structure of an Italian menu

• Antipasti – light starters such as cured meats and olives 
• Primo piatto – first course – pasta or rice ( risotto) 
• Secondo piatto – second course – usually meat or fish
• Contorni – side dishes such as vegetables ( vedure) or salad ( insalata)
• Dolce – dessert such as cake or gelato

Do NOT feel obligated to eat a full 3 or 4 course meal. It is not necessary  – unless you want to of course!

Tourist menus are likely to be quite ordinary and are best avoided.

The menu will indicate if there is a cover charge (coperto) – a standard charge  of a couple of euros for your seat and bread (even if you don’t eat it). It is non negotiable.

There may also be a service charge (servizio) of 10% particularly in tourist areas.

Tipping is not expected (especially when there is a service charge). You leave your change to the nearest dollar if you like.

Drinking water

Italian tap water is safe to drink.  You will also find drinking fountains in the major cities. Rome, Florence and Venice all have perfectly safe, clean and free drinking water in town squares. You can take your own bottle  and fill it up unless there is a sign reading ‘ acqua non potabile ‘.

We recommend these collapsible water bottles  – perfect for staying hydrated during a long day sightseeing.

At restaurants tap water is not common. You can order still ( naturale ) or sparkling ( frizzante ) water and it usually comes in a 1 litre bottle.

Lost in translation – Italian food quirks you should know

Some foods we think of as Italian are really versions or adaptations of dishes for our tastes and palates. Here are some food items you might find confusing:

• Insalata verde directly translates as green salad and if you order it you will get a bowl of lettuce
• Spaghetti and meatballs is not a dish you will easily find in Italy
• Fettucine Alfredo is an Americanized version of a very simple pasta dish ‘pasta in bianco’ that you won’t find on any menu
• Bread is not a pre dinner snack – it is there to wipe up the juices left on your plate
• Bread is not served with oil and vinegar or butter as general rule (see above)

Click to learn more about Italian food culture

Coffee culture

Italy has the best coffee in the world. Do not expect a giant Starbucks style latte as you won’t get it. What you will get is a strong and aromatic brew. Italians drink coffee throughout the day and into the night.

Coffee types

• Un caffé – 20 – 25ml of espresso coffee. This is what will be served if you ask for a coffee
• Cappuccino – one third espresso, one third steamed milk, one third froth – considered a breakfast drink
• Caffé latte – hot milk mixed with a dash of coffee – breakfast drink
• Caffé americano – espresso coffee with added hot water served in a larger cup. Also known as a long black in Australia
• Caffé macchiato – espresso coffee with a drop of milk
• Caffé doppio – double espresso

The rules on coffee

• At most coffee bars you need to pay at the till, get a ticket and then repeat your order to the server behind the bar
• Cappuccino and caffé latte are considered breakfast drinks and not consumed after 10:00am – drinking lots of milk after this time is considered to be bad for digestion
• You pay a surcharge to sit down at a cafe and consume anything (including water). This does not apply when standing at the bar

I love aperitivo! Served between 5 and 8pm, aperitivo is a tradition that began in Milan. At its most basic, aperitivo is a drink such as wine or a cocktail, such as the classic Aperol Spritz, served with bar snacks such as chips or olives. They are included in the price of your drink.

These days the concept has evolved into something more elaborate. Some bars now offer a buffet for aperitivo or higher class snacks. 

Italian wine

Wine is taken very seriously in Italy and is always accompanied by a meal or as an aperitif. As a general rule, Italians do not drink to get drunk and this practice is considered rude – see bella figura above.

Table wine or house wine is generally quite acceptable (and cheap if you are on a budget). Just ask for a glass (bicchiere) or bottle (bottiglia) of vino bianco (white wine) or vino rosso (red wine).

Sometimes house wine is served in a tumbler at more humble establishments. If you get a wine glass it will be served half full as standard practice.

If you are taking your wine drinking a little more seriously (and why not!), Italy has 15 major wine producing regions and over 1 million wine growers. You are spoilt for choice.

Some favorite and famous Italian wines are:

• Prosecco – a light sparkling white wine from the Veneto region
• Chianti – red wine made from 80% sangiovese grapes from Tuscany
• Barolo – Italy’s most expensive red wine from the Piedmont region
• Pinot grigio – a crisp white wine from Lombardy 

If you want your sommelier to help you choose your wine, ask for

• Vino rosato – rosé wine
• Vino secco – dry wine
• Vino abboccato – semi-dry wine
• Vino corposo – full-bodied wine
• Vino dolce  – sweet wine

Look out for enotecas  – wine bars. They are the best places to try local wines. 

Food allergies and preferences

If you are managing food allergies and preferences you might be surprised to learn that they are easily accommodated in Italy.

Gluten intolerance in particular is a health issue for Italians, so many restaurants offer a gluten free alternative to their standard pasta dishes. 

Vegetarians and vegans are well catered for too. There are many amazing vegetarian dishes from a basic pasta with tomato sauce to more elaborate creations. My favorite is melanzane parmigiana (eggplant parmigiana)

If you are lactose intolerant or vegan, you should be able to get your daily cappuccino with soy milk. Try asking for ‘un cappuccino con latte di soia per favor’. 

Many pizzas come without cheese too. If you are in any doubt ask for  your pizza senza formaggio (without cheese).

Look for some of the bigger gelato chains like Grom in the major cities as they offer dairy free gelato. 

A special note on seafood allergies – we learnt the hard way that even if you are far from the sea, anchovies are sometimes hiding in delicious olive tapenade. 

Pork is eaten widely in Italy. Be on the lookout if you don’t eat it as this meat is preferred to chicken and is widely eaten especially at lunchtimes.

Tips on dining with kids in Italy

There really are none except that you will rarely see a kids menu. Just order a half serve from the main menu.

It’s an absolute pleasure dining out as a family in Italy. Kids are so well catered for.

Restaurant staff will ensure they are fed and have a drink before you on most occasions. Meals arrive quickly and there’s usually some pencils for drawing. Our kids have sometimes been given little presents too.

Public restrooms can be difficult to find in Italy. 

More often than not, when you do find one, you need to pay a small charge to visit the restroom in public spaces in Italy. This charge could be from 50 euro cents to €1.50. You can expect these facilities to be cleaner than standard public restrooms in your country.

While you are visiting museums use the facilities – you just never know when you are going to get another opportunity. They also usually have decent changing facilities for children and babies which is a rarity in Italy.

If there is no public facility close by then duck into the nearest cafe or restaurant and ask for ‘il bagno per favore’. We always try to buy something small for their trouble.

Always carry toilet paper or tissues. Always.

If you are traveling with small children bring a foldable change mat.

The best way to travel between the cities of Italy is by train. You can buy tickets easily at the station but if you prefer to book in advance using an English language site we recommend Omio (formerly GoEuro) or Italiarail .

Tickets are usually cheaper when booked in advance if you can commit to a set day and time of travel.

Most city centres in Italy are very walkable but if you need to use public transport then the system is pretty standard across the country.

Buy bus or tram tickets from a nearby tabaccaio or street kiosk and train tickets at the closest station. Tickets are generally valid for a set time unless you buy a day pass and you must validate your ticket once on board . In Rome, for example, a single €1.50 ticket is valid for 75 minutes.

Warning – you must validate your train ticket for it to be considered usable. Big fines apply if you do not

There are often no lifts or escalators in train stations so be prepared to haul your luggage up a couple of flights of stairs

Taxis and Uber

Taxis are generally a little expensive but they are controlled by the government and are a professional service. Look for white or yellow cars with a taxi sign on the roof.

Hailing taxis is not common. You need to find a taxi stand and wait for one to arrive or enter the first car on the stand.

If you need to call a taxi use the My Taxi app

Surcharges apply at airports and major train stations like Rome Termini

Tipping is not usual although you may give a euro or two if the driver has been particularly helpful

Uber is available in larger cities like Rome and Milan. You can use your app just as you would at home. 

Airport transfers

If you are traveling in a group of more than 3 with large luggage we recommend booking an airport transfer. Taxis are not able to accommodate large parties.

We recommend Suntransfers and Black Lane  for airport transfers in Italy and Europe for their reliable service and affordable prices.

Detailed transfer information:

• Rome airports to city center – read here
• Venice Marco Polo airport to the city – read here

Driving in Italy

The Italian countryside is so beautiful and the best way to explore the small towns and villages is by car. Italian drivers have fearsome reputations though don’t they?

Don’t worry, driving in Italy is not as difficult as you think. We wrote a full guide with our Italy driving tips – you can read that here  

Make sure to bring your International Driving Licence if you are traveling from outside Europe

We use and recommend Car Rental by Booking.com  to rent cars in Italy.

The currency in Italy is the Euro €.

Italy is a modern country with the financial services you would expect at home. You will find ATMs (called bancomat in Italian) that use the Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus and Maestro systems everywhere.

Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, shops and autostrada tollbooths. Where you might come unstuck is relying on American Express and Diners Club which are not widely accepted

It’s always wise to carry a small amount of cash for small cafes, pizzerias and restaurants (trattorias), some transport and taxis

Read: why you need travel insurance for Italy

Tipping in Italy

Tipping in Italy is not expected. This applies to all situations.

A service charge (servizio) may be added to your restaurant bill (in addition to the coperto cover charge). In this case tipping is absolutely not required. 

If there is no service charge you could leave a few euros or add 10% for a smart restaurant. Many people leave small change when ordering a coffee at a bar

Tipping is not required for taxis or services at most hotels although is commonplace at luxury 5* hotels

We have always felt extremely safe traveling in Italy. Police known as carabinieri are highly visible and have an extra strong presence at the main attractions and in city centres. 

The general emergency number in Italy is 112. You can also call these numbers for:

• Police – 113
• Fire – 115
• Medical – 118

The usual rules apply however. Avoid being alone in dark places at night time, particularly if you are a solo female traveler.

Pickpockets

Unfortunately where there are crowds you will find pickpockets. Petty thieves do target tourists in busy areas such as train stations and tourist attractions in Italy.

To keep your belongings safe, stay alert and keep an eye on your belongings at all times. I carry a crossbody bag so I can keep a firm grip on it when in crowds. 

Do not go sightseeing with valuable and  keep your passport in your hotel safe. You can read our full guide to avoiding pickpockets in Italy here .

Tourist scams

In general, if someone is trying to give you something for free, it really isn’t and they want cash in return. As in any country with large numbers of tourists there are enterprising individuals at all of the major sights ready to make a quick buck.

My favorites are – people dressed up in Roman soldier costume ready to pose for your vacation snaps (there is a fee – we fell for this one), guys with small gifts for your children – animal carvings, bracelets etc (there is a fee), ladies with little bouquets of flowers they would just love to give you (there is a fee). 

Always buy tickets and tours from licensed vendors. If you are stuck in a line at one of the major attractions it is tempting to try and jump the queue when you are offered skip the line tickets, bear in mind they may not be genuine.

Instead, be organized and book your tickets in advance. We use GetYourGuide  to book tickets, tours and attractions in advance throughout Italy and Europe – you can read our full review here .

One of the most delightful things about traveling in Italy is you can stay in historic buildings and old palazzos.

What could be more romantic than waking up staring at a beautiful fresco and opening shuttered windows out onto a piazza?

Take note, rooms with views are more romantic, rooms without views are cheaper.

Hotels, apartments, villas.. and more!

There is a broad range of accommodation in Italy. From upscale and boutique hotels to city apartments and bed and breakfasts and country villas.

We mainly use Booking.com to find and book accommodation in Italy as you can search through almost all accommodation options to find the one that best suits your needs. 

One type of accommodation you may not be familiar with are agriturismi – a great option if you want to explore the Italian countryside.

At its most basic, an agriturismo is a farm stay – local farmers rent out their rooms for additional income and your room rate usually includes a (delicious) home cooked meal. 

You can also find luxury farm stays that a more like mini resorts with a pool, restaurant and gardens. We have used this option several times now and recommend them to everyone we know.

Check this site for agriturismi around Italy. We find the site a bit clunky for booking purposes however and you can usually find the same properties on Booking.com

Practical things to check

Make sure you check for the following things when booking accommodation in Italy: 

• Do you need a lift? Many hotels and apartments, do not have lifts so you may need to negotiate several flights of stairs to get to your room
• Do you feel the heat? Air conditioning is not as standard as you might hope in a country that experiences very hot temperatures in summer 
• Read reviews to understand room sizes as these can be quite small in Italy
• Need a hearty breakfast? Breakfast is usually a very light meal in Italy so look for hotels that offer an American style breakfast

The fine print

Many Italian cities charge a city tax of 1 to 5 Euros per person, per night. Often, this charge is payable in cash so make sure to read the terms and conditions before booking. Some hotels may include this in their daily rate, others won’t.

Check the booking engine you are using for the fine print on payment. Many apartments require cash payment in Euros in arrival.

Wifi and wireless mobile is widely available in Italy at reasonable speeds. Public free wifi is usually slower and less reliable however.

If you traveling from outside Europe (where charges are limited by European law) and are going to be in Italy for a couple of weeks, you may want to consider buying a local SIM card so you can avoid paying data roaming charges.

Local SIM cards are easily purchased throughout Italy. Note – You will need an unlocked cell phone to do this and you will need to show proof of identity eg your passport, to buy one

We prefer to buy a prepaid SIM prior to departure and recommend OneSimCard  who offer prepaid international SIMs with up to 85% savings on roaming charges and fast shipping so you can be organized prior to departure – click here for more information

Stores are generally open from 09:00am to 13:00pm and from 16:00pm to 20:00pm. There is a break in the early afternoon for riposo (a traditional mid afternoon break)

Many stores close on Sundays and Monday morning although this is less common 

The main supermarket chains in Italy are Carrefour and Conan – you can find small branches open 24×7 in the big cities.

When selecting fresh produce at supermarkets – use the plastic gloves provided, then weigh your goods and collect the printed sticker with the price from the scale before proceeding to the checkout.

At markets, the vendors will select the produce for you – do NOT handle the goods

Most pharmacies are open from 8:30 to 12:30 in the morning and from 15:30 to 19:30 in the afternoon. You may find some pharmacies that open at night, holidays and Sundays, but this is the exception not the rule

American Express and Diners Club are often not accepted in Italian shops

Bring your own shopping bag or expect to pay a 5 to 15 cent fee per bag – plastic bags were banned in Italy in 2011 

Many museums and churches traditionally shut on Mondays so it is wise to check in advance whether they will be open during your visit.

Italy’s main attractions are incredibly popular and it is not uncommon to wait in lines for up to 3 hours to buy a ticket. For this reason we recommend booking skip the line entrance tickets in advance.

You will also need to pass through strict security checks. Do not big large bags or backpacks with you.

Here is a list of the main attractions and where to buy tickets using online booking engine Get Your Guide which we find much easier to use than trying to navigate the Italian museum sites.

• Colosseum (includes Roman Forum and Palatine Hill) – book tickets here or a guided tour here
• Vatican museums – book tickets here or a guided tour here

Click here for our guide to recommended tours in Rome

• Uffizi Gallery timed priority entrance – book tickets  here  or a guided tour  here
• Accademia Gallery for Michelangelo’s David – book tickets  here
• Milan cathedral and rooftop tickets – click  here
• Da Vinci’s Last Supper tickets – click  here  (must book at least 2 months in advance)
• St Mark’s Basilica – book tickets  here  or a guided tour  here
• Doge’s Palace – book tickets  here  or a guided tour  here

In my opinion, the best souvenirs from Italy are food products. I only found out quite recently how easy it is to bring food stuffs back within the EU and to the United States and Canada. Sorry Australians, our quarantine laws make this impossible!

Stores across the country are used to vaccuum sealing cheeses and meat products so they stay fresh for a long time. You can also buy pasta, herb mixes and other delicacies like truffle salt to bring with you.

Glassware from Murano, carnevale masks from Venice and paper goods and leather from Florence are popular too. Italian craftsmanship is highly regarded due to the skills they have developed over many centuries. Do check the products are made locally though and not cheap imports.

I loved the vibrant ceramics from the Amalfi Coast and Sicily. In that region you can also buy extremely well made leather sandals. 

But having said all that, my favorite souvenir from Italy is a cliché tea towel with pictures of different pasta varieties on a map of the boot. You can get those anywhere, and they are light!

I hope you enjoyed reading our travel tips for Italy. If you have any other questions be sure to let us know!

Disclaimer –  Untold Morsels assists our readers with carefully chosen product and services recommendations that help make travel easier and more fun. If you click through and make a purchase on many of these items we may earn a commission. All opinions are our own – please read our  disclosure  page for more information.

The creator, writer and photographer behind Untold Morsels , Katy has been travelling and tasting the world since she was a teenager.

Now the proud mum of twins, she hopes they grow up to share her passions of great food, wine and travel. Favourite destination: Italy

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33 Italy Travel Tips That Will Save You Time, Money and Disappointment

Avoid tourist traps and have authentic experiences with these top italy travel tips.

With over 50 UNESCO world heritage sites, 3 active volcanoes, over 1500 lakes, excellent food, top-notch wines and the smallest restaurant in the world (that’s right: it can only seat two people!), Italy is one of the most popular destinations for travellers around the world. Despite being a relatively small country, Italy really has something for everyone: gorgeous beaches, stunning cities, archaeological sites, art, countryside and mountains.

It’s not uncommon to experience so-called culture shocks , which are nothing more than cultural diversities, customs or local peculiarities that can cause visitors to feel in over their heads. Sometimes this can lead to scams, paying too much, and general disappointment or confusion.

There’s so much to know about Italy and consider before planning a trip, but don’t worry: whether you’re a first-timer or a returning visitor, here’s everything you need to know before travelling to Italy!

In this guide, you’ll find 33 Italy travel tips and hacks divided into categories which will help you make the most of your time and avoid possible challenges you’ll run into while visiting Italy. Knowing these things will ensure you have a safe and enjoyable stay on each one of your trips. Want more tips? Get my complete guide to 101 Italy travel tips here.

Tips for getting around, travelling and transport in Italy

• Pack light. Steps, inclines, cobblestones, narrow hotel staircases: getting around Italian cities can be a struggle with lots of suitcases and heavy luggage. Whatever your travel style, choose appropriate bags to make sure your arrival and your stay go smoothly. If you’re visiting places like Venice , you will also need to be able to carry your luggage on waterbuses and up flights of stairs as lifts/elevators are very rare.
• Wear comfortable shoes. For the same reason mentioned above, you’ll make your life a lot easier by wearing comfortable shoes when you’re out and about. If you plan to visit Venice, don’t forget you might need a pair of stivali di gomma , rubber boots, when high water occurs in lower-lying parts of the city such as sound Piazza San Marco.
• Validate your train ticket. If you’re travelling by train in Italy, make sure you validate your ticket before getting on the train. Italy doesn’t have turnstiles at its train stations, it is up to you to validate your ticket in the machines (usually green or yellow) located near the entrance to each platform. Hefty fines apply to those travelling with an unvalidated ticket! Emergency tip: If you can’t find a machine, it doesn’t work, or you’re in a hurry, the next best thing you can try is to write on the ticket the time it was last used. This might just be enough to convince a ticket conductor on board that you intended to do the right thing.
• Book high-speed trains in advance. High-speed trains in Italy are called “frecce”, like Freciarossa, Frecciabianca, Frecciargento . Bookings usually open 120 days before your trip. It’s always a good idea to buy tickets in advance to ensure you get a cheaper price. You can get your tickets on the Trenitalia website which is the official Italian rail network ticket provider. There is also Italo , the official private seller of the Italian high-speed train company.
• Beware of transportation strikes. One word sciopero (pronounced: shoh-peh-roh ) this is the Italian word for strike and a must-know term. Strikes have become part of daily life in Italy so don’t be shocked if there’s a strike of some sort that may affect your travel plans. Be prepared and pay attention to signs, especially in train stations. Usually, strikes are announced ahead of time so you have the chance to think of a plan B or C.
• Be aware of parking lines. Before parking your car, always check the colour of the lines. White means it’s a free or time-restricted free parking (in this case you need to display a disco orario , that is, a parking disc or clock disc showing the time at which the vehicle was parked). Yellow parking lines mean that the space is reserved for residents in that area or street and it’s forbidden to park there unless you have a permit. Areas marked with blue lines mean you need to pay to park. This normally applies on weekdays and Saturdays but not on Sundays and public holidays, but it’s always better to check the signs. Just like for the motorways, bring some coins, as some parking machines do not accept cards.
• Only use official taxis. All taxis in Italy are white with official markings. Standard prices are listed inside the taxi and on the door. Remember to check these to avoid being scammed. I’ve seen this happen a lot in Rome. Often at airports, you will see people trying to convince unassuming tourists to get a ride with them. Unless the car is white and a marked taxi, don’t risk it.

Food and drink tips

• No cappuccino after breakfast. Ordering a cappuccino together with your meal for lunch or dinner is definitely frowned upon in Italy! Italians normally have a cappuccino (or milk or caffellatte ) for breakfast, which often comes with sweet (and not savory) food such as biscuits, pastries, croissants or cereals. This is why you typically don’t order un cappuccino or any other beverage containing milk after 11 am. It’s quite common though to have an espresso , a macchiato (black coffee with a few drops of milk) or a corretto (black coffee with a tiny bit of grappa or other liquor) after a meal. Check out my guide on how to order food and drink in Italian.
• Ask for the bill. In Italy, when dining in a restaurant, you need to ask for il conto (the bill) or go to the cash register to pay. It’s considered rude for the waiter to give you the bill before you’ve asked for it as they just don’t want to rush you. Mealtime is precious in Italy 🙂
• Drink from water fountains. Water fountains are found in many Italian cities. In Rome, these are called “nasoni” (literally, “big noses”) and provide fresh, cool water. So there’s no need to pay for bottled water. These aqueducts have been supplying Rome with its water for thousands of years! If it’s good enough for the emperors it’s good enough for me 🙂 Bring an empty bottle and fill it up as you explore the city.

Tips for Eating out in Italy

• Dinner is eaten late. Italians typically eat late, from 9 pm, especially in southern Italy. A restaurant serving dinner around 5-7 pm is catering to tourists and therefore the quality of food is often lower. Normally, good restaurants don’t open before 7 pm, unless they’re establishments that also serve aperitivo , a drink (alcoholic or not) that comes with crisps and other nibbles. This can be a good solution to “calm” your hunger while waiting for dinnertime or to stimulate your appetite.
• Italy doesn’t have a tipping culture. No one will judge you if you don’t tip the waiter/waitress. Although, in highly touristic areas it’s become kind of usual and some might even expect it, especially if the service was attentive and punctual, the food tasty and the overall experience pleasant. Italians will only ever leave up to 1-2 euros per person. Learn the dos and don’ts when it comes to tipping in Italy with my complete guide.
• Learn how to express your dietary requirements. Even though in touristic cities people may understand or speak some English, don’t always take it for granted. Learning how to order your meal , your favourite dish and how to express any dietary requirements (e.g. I’m vegetarian, I’m gluten intolerant, I’m allergic to peanuts) in Italian is essential and will ensure that your lunch or dinner runs smoothly.
• Don’t ask for tap water. Even though it’s common in many countries to ask for tap water in restaurants, you will get a disapproving look in Italy. It’s just not common in Italy so if you want to drink water it will be bottled. Just specify if you want it naturale (still) or frizzante/gassata (sparkling).

Italy Sightseeing tips

• Some businesses take a break during the day. In Italian cities, very rarely you’ll find a 24/7 store, let alone in small towns. While in some large shops it has become more common to have an orario continuato (non-stop working hours), generally every Italian store or venue closes right after lunch (12 pm or 1 pm) and then reopens at 3 pm or 4 pm, after the riposino (nap, rest), which is the equivalent of the Spanish siesta . Monday is usually a day off for shops, mini-markets, restaurants, hairdressers and beauty salons. Make a note of business hours, just in case.
• Check public holidays. Public holidays can affect your travel plans and the ability to visit attractions. The most important ones to know are: 1st (New Year’s Day) and 6th (Epiphany) January, Easter and Easter Monday, 2nd June (Republic Day), 15th August ( Ferragosto ), 1st November (All Saints), 8th (Immaculate Conception), 25th (Christmas) 26th (Saint Stephen/Boxing Day) December. Individual cities also have local festivities. Check the opening hours of each individual attraction if travelling during these times.
• Avoid queues. Book private tours and skip the line tickets in advance for major attractions to avoid disappointment. It’ll be a huge time saver! My favourite go-to service for finding the best-guided tours is Viator .
• Dress appropriately when visiting religious places. You will need to cover your shoulders and your knees before going into religious buildings, like churches and cathedrals or you could be turned away. Avoid carrying large backpacks as they will be denied entry or you will have to use the cloak.

Italy Safety tips

• Beware of pickpockets. Pickpockets can be terrible in some tourist areas and especially on the buses, metros and trains. Avoid the number 64 and 40 bus in Rome when travelling to the Vatican from Termini station. These lines are notorious.
• Never leave your credit card out of your sight. Don’t let your credit card unsupervised when paying for anything. I’ve heard stories of waiters taking their card to swipe using a machine “out the back” of the restaurant. Thirty minutes later, the card had been cloned and they had apparently bought 3,000 Euros worth of jewellery, paid for a taxi, purchased 500 Euro worth of sports equipment and 200 Euros of groceries all over Italy in a span of an hour.
• Always have your ID with you. In Italy, it is required by law to carry your personal ID with you. You may be asked to show it if stopped by police officers on duty.
• Learn Italian emergency numbers. Should you have an emergency while in Italy, you can call 112 (European Emergency number) for general emergencies, 113 for polizia (National Police), 115 for firefighters and 118 for health emergencies.
• Learn some basic Italian. Even though Italy is a highly touristic country, don’t expect everyone to understand or speak English. It’s a good idea to learn some basic Italian phrases for everyday situations but also in case of emergency – God forbid!

• Know where to find public toilets. To access public toilets in Italy you will often need to pay a euro or two. However, the law requires bars and restaurants to give access to their facilities for free. Common practice is to make a small purchase or to take a quick espresso drunk at the counter. Local city apps, like Veritas in Venice , will help you find public restrooms.
• Bring a plug adaptor. Check the voltage before using your appliances (remember that most hotels provide things like hair dryers anyway) and make sure you have the right adaptor for Europe and Italy. For Italy, there are three plug types, types C, F and L. Plug type C has two round pins, plug type F has two round pins with two earth clips on either side and plug type L has three round pins in a row. Italy’s supply voltage is 230V and 50Hz.

Italy Accommodation tips

• You need to pay city tax. Each person must pay city tax or tourist tax. This is not included in your bill and must be paid separately once you arrive at your accommodation. This fee is set per person per night, it must be paid in cash and is usually around 2 euros. Visiting Rome? From the Spanish Steps to the Pantheon , don’t miss my guide to the best hostels and neighbourhoods in Rome. For more tips, don’t miss my guide on the best time to travel to Italy.
• Don’t expect air conditioning everywhere. Double-check that your hotel or car rental has air conditioning, as this is not standard and usually it’s not available unless specified. When there is air-conditioning, expect it to be weak. If you are used to the US air-con standard, you will notice that Italian air-conditioned spaces feel significantly warmer than those back home.

Types of establishments in Italy

• Use plastic gloves when handling baked goods, fruit and vegetables at the supermarket. It’s a common thing in Italy to wear plastic gloves which are found near the scales. Once you pick your items, you’ll also have to weigh them yourself, enter the product code, print the sticker, and put it on the plastic bag. This can’t be done at the checkout and you’ll be sent back.
• Learn about Italian farmacie . Pharmacies in Italy are run by real pharmacists (and not just shop assistants), who give medical advice and strictly sell pharmaceutical products and health articles. Even things like aspirin are kept behind the counter. The business hours of pharmacies are typically 8 am to 8 pm and they generally have a lunch break from 1 pm to 4 pm. However, in case of an emergency, there is always a pharmacy open. You can find the address and phone number of the farmacia di turno (pharmacy on duty) written on all pharmacy doors. Pharmacies are marked by large green crosses lit by LED lights.
• Go to the tabaccherie . Tabaccherie are newsagents that sell almost anything from cigarettes and tobacco to magazines and newspapers, candy/sweets, snacks and local transport tickets. They can easily be identified by their signage: a large white “T” on a black or blue background.

Travelling with children in Italy

• Most restaurants don’t have a kid’s menu. Kids menus are not very common in Italy but this doesn’t mean a restaurant is not child-friendly. You can easily ask for a simple pasta dish or a mezza porzione (smaller portion) of whatever is on the menu, they will be happy to do that.
• Car seat for children. Not all rental companies have the full equipment for children. If you’re travelling with a baby who needs a rear-facing car seat, consider bringing your own car seat and make sure it complies with the EU safety standards.

Want more Italy travel tips? Get my complete guide which features 101 Italy Travel Tips that will save you more time, more money and disappointment .

I wish you many wonderful and memorable trips to come. Buon viaggio! (Have a wonderful trip)

Don’t be treated like a tourist. Learn Italian with my 80/20 method

Travelling to Italy? Don’t be treated like a tourist! Live your best travel experiences and learn Italian for less than the cost of eating at a tourist trap restaurant or a taxi driver who has “taken you for a ride”. I’ve made it easy for you to master the Italian language so you can create lifelong memories as you mingle with locals , get local tips , avoid tourist traps , and make new friends . Who knows, you may even be invited over for afternoon tea by a lovely Sicilian family like I was! Read all about how speaking Italian changed my life and check out my online Italian video course here.

Here’s what my students are saying:

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Don’t miss my Italy travel guides

• Best Time to Visit Italy // PLUS Tips to Avoid Crowds and SAVE $$$
• 29 Amazing Day Trips from Rome By Train, Car & Guided Tour
• 21 Unique Things to Do in Venice You Should Try at Least Once
• Where to Stay in Rome | Best Hotels and Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Rome
• 20 Top Hotels Near the Pantheon in Rome for Every Budget
• 12 BEST Things to do in Burano, Italy (Tips from a Local Guide)
• Top 7 Authentic Tours and Experiences in Rome [Run by Locals]
• Domus Aurea: Why You Should Visit Rome’s Secret Hidden Palace
• Rome Tips and Tricks: 27 Things You Should Know Before You Go to Rome
• Top 10 Absolute Best Views of Rome That Will Blow Your Mind
• Self-Guided Trastevere Walking Tour: Where to See Rome’s Most Beautiful Streets
• 26 Absolute Best Things to do in Verona, Italy
• Lakes, Mountains & Castles: 21 Best Things to do in Trento, Italy
• 36 Wonderful Things to do in Umbria, Italy (PLUS Map of Umbria)
• Italy Fun Facts: 126 Unique Things You Didn’t Know About Italy

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Over to you!

Have you visited Italy before? What other tips would you add to this list? Let me know using thecomments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

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Michele creates language learning guides and courses for travel. What separates her from other instructors is her ability to explain complex grammar in a no-nonsense, straightforward manner using her unique 80/20 method. Get her free guide 9 reasons you’re not fluent…YET & how to fix it! Planning a trip? Learn the local language with her 80/20 method for less than the cost of eating at a tourist trap restaurant Start learning today!

21 Unique Things to Do in Venice, Italy (A NON-Touristic Guide)

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How many months do I need left on my UK passport before I travel?

Many countries across the world require you to have a few months left on your passport at the time of travel – here are the main holiday destinations to watch out for, article bookmarked.

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You might think that you can just hop on a plane with an in-date passport and travel the world. In fact, many countries demand that visitors have months left on their passport before it expires.

Some – including Australia , Canada and the US – only require your travel document to be in date for the duration of your trip.

But others give a more restrictive time frame, with no real pattern from region to region – while most of Asia requires six months on your passport, for example, different Caribbean islands demand different time frames.

In some destinations, you can also be caught out for not having enough space left in your passport for new immigration stamps.

Here are the key passport validity rules for British passports for the world’s top holiday destinations.

• Barred from Europe: 2.4m Brits caught in post-Brexit passport chaos
• When do I need to renew my passport for travel to Europe?
• This is the best time to renew your passport to save money

Valid for the duration of your stay

These countries only ask that your passport is valid until the day you leave the country.

*While this is technically the rule for Canada, if you have six months or less on your passport, it may take longer for you to get through immigration.

Valid for one day

Costa Rica requires Britons to have one day’s validity from the day of their departure.

Valid for three months

All EU countries, plus those in the Schengen Area (excluding Ireland) require you to have three months left on your passport from the day you plan to leave. Your passport must also be less than 10 years old on the day you enter the country. This is true for the following countries:

• Republic of Cyprus
• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Vatican City

These non-European countries also require three months’ validity on your day of departure:

• British Virgin Islands
• French Polynesia
• New Zealand
• South Korea

Valid for six months

In most cases, this means valid for six months from the date you arrive in the country, but it’s worth checking the Foreign Office’s individual entry requirements for the country you’re visiting to make sure.

• Antigua and Barbuda
• The Bahamas
• Dominican Republic
• Ecuador (& Galapagos Islands)
• Madagascar*
• Philippines
• South Africa*
• United Arab Emirates

*South Africa, Madagascar, Kenya also require you to have two blank pages left in your passport; Namibia requires one blank page.

Valid for 180 days

India requires a more specific 180 days of validity from the date you arrive. It also asks visitors to have two blank pages available for their visa.

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