Italian escorted rail holidays

When to travel

Italy is known for its warm weather and Mediterranean climes throughout the year. In summer, head to the Tuscan hills, the shores of the great lakes or the beaches of the Italian Riviera, where fresh breezes help to keep things cool. Spring and autumn are best for visiting the big cities when the crowds are smaller, and the famous art galleries and museums aren't so busy. In winter, the Dolomites and Alps provide a wintry backdrop to some of the country's chicest resorts.

What to pack

What to pack depends largely on where you go and when. If you're travelling at the hottest time of year (June-August), you'll want to make sure you've got plenty of loose, preferably linen, clothes as well as suncream, sunglasses and a hat. If you're visiting places of worship, make sure not to wear shorts (men and women), while ladies will need to ensure they have something that can cover their shoulders. A waterproof in case of inclement weather and a light jacket or two for cooler evenings are also recommended; don't forget your swimsuit if you want to cool off with a swim! If you're travelling in the shoulder months, then layers are a good idea as they leave you prepared for whatever the weather has to throw at you, and a sturdy pair of water-resistant shoes will keep you comfortable on excursion days.

Local customs and cultures

Religion, food and family are some of the most important traditions across Italy. The country is predominantly Catholic and modest dress is required for men and women when you visit any of its places of worship. While eating out, don't expect the high turnover of tables that you see in many restaurants in the UK; meals here are meant to be savoured, with adults and children alike choosing from the same menu. While there are a few exceptions, even in the big cities, most eateries focus on traditional Italian food, so if you feel like you need a carb break, it's worth doing a bit of research about the different cuisines available in the destinations you'll be visiting. This will also help you ensure you try the specialities of each region you travel through. Coffee drinking has some fundamental rules in Italy, with lattes, cappuccinos and any other milky coffee reserved for breakfast time only, espressos, however, are acceptable any time of day, or night! You'll have no problem being understood speaking English pretty much anywhere you go in Italy, but like most countries, they do appreciate a little bit of the local lingo, so be sure to brush up on the basics before you go.