Italian Holidays

The official currency of Italy is the Euro (€), abbreviated as EUR. The euro is used across 19 of the 27 European Union countries, making it one of the most widely used currencies in the world. If you are travelling to Italy, ensure you have euros for transactions, although credit and debit cards are also widely accepted.

The main language spoken in Italy is Italian. Italian is the official language and is used in all government, legal, and educational contexts. While regional languages and dialects such as Sicilian, Neapolitan, and Sardinian are also spoken, Italian is universally understood and used across the country. If you are travelling to Italy, knowing some basic Italian phrases can be very helpful, although many Italians, especially in tourist areas, also speak English.

The capital of Italy is Rome. Rome, known as "Roma" in Italian, is not only the political and administrative centre of the country but also a city rich in history, culture, and architecture. It is home to iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Vatican City, and the Roman Forum. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Rome offers a blend of ancient history and modern vibrancy, making it a major destination for tourists and a central hub for Italian life.

Italy follows Central European Time (CET), which is GMT+1. During daylight saving time, from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October, Italy switches to Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is GMT+2. This means that Italy is one hour ahead of GMT during standard time and two hours ahead during daylight saving time.

Travelling by rail from Rome to Turin typically takes between 4 to 5 hours on high-speed trains such as the Frecciarossa or Italo. These trains offer direct services with minimal stops, providing a fast and convenient option for travel between these two major cities. Slower regional or intercity trains may take longer, potentially up to 7 or 8 hours, depending on the number of stops and the specific route.

The average flight time from the UK to Italy varies depending on the departure and arrival cities. Generally, direct flights from London to major Italian cities such as Rome, Milan, or Venice take approximately 2 to 3 hours. For other UK cities, the flight duration might be slightly longer, typically ranging from 2 to 4 hours.

The best time to visit Italy depends on the regions you plan to explore and the experiences you seek.

Spring (March to May): Spring offers pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time to visit. Tourist crowds are smaller compared to summer, making sightseeing in cities like Rome and Florence more enjoyable. Tuscany is particularly beautiful during this time, with its landscapes and wine festivals.

Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, ideal for coastal areas like the Amalfi Coast and Sicily. However, cities can be hot and crowded. This is the best time for beach holidays and enjoying Italy's vibrant coastal life.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn brings mild weather and fewer tourists. It's an excellent time for visiting cities, exploring the countryside, and enjoying harvest festivals in regions like Tuscany and Umbria. The fall colours add a picturesque charm to the landscapes.

Winter (December to February): Winter is the off-season for most of Italy, except for the Alpine regions, which are popular for skiing and winter sports. Cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice have fewer tourists, offering a more relaxed experience, though the weather can be cold and wet.

Packing for a trip to Italy depends on the time of year and the regions you plan to visit. Here are some general recommendations:

Spring (March to May): Light layers, a mix of short and long-sleeved tops, a light jacket or sweater, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella.

Summer (June to August): Light, breathable clothing, shorts, T-shirts, a sun hat, sunglasses, swimwear, sandals, and sunscreen. Don't forget a light scarf or shawl for visiting religious sites.

Autumn (September to November): Layers such as long-sleeved tops, sweaters, a medium-weight jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella. The weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for both warm and cool days.

Winter (December to February): Warm clothing, including a heavy coat, sweaters, long pants, a hat, gloves, and a scarf. Waterproof shoes or boots are recommended, especially if you plan to visit northern regions.

General items for all seasons: A universal power adapter, toiletries, a reusable water bottle, travel guidebooks, and important documents such as your passport, travel insurance, and copies of your itinerary. Packing cubes can help keep your luggage organised.

Italy is rich in cultural traditions and customs. Handshakes are common greetings, while friends and family often exchange kisses on both cheeks. At meals, it is customary to say "Buon appetito" before eating, and it is polite to finish everything on your plate without requesting changes to the menu. Italians tend to dress stylishly, and it is important to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting churches. While punctuality is expected in professional settings, social events often start later than scheduled. Italians use expressive gestures and maintain eye contact during conversations.

Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated; leave a small tip in restaurants and round up for taxis. Many businesses close in the afternoon, typically from 1 PM to 4 PM, for a siesta. Maintaining good manners and avoiding loud conversations in public places are also important aspects of Italian culture. Respecting these customs will enhance your experience and show appreciation for Italian culture.

While it is not necessary to speak Italian when visiting Italy, knowing some basic phrases can greatly enhance your experience. In major cities and tourist areas, many people speak English, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions. However, in smaller towns and rural areas, English may be less commonly spoken. Learning simple phrases like "hello" (ciao), "please" (per favore), "thank you" (grazie), and "excuse me" (scusi) can help you navigate daily interactions and show respect for the local culture. Italians appreciate any effort made to speak their language, even if it's just a few words.

Great Rail Journeys is a market leader when it comes to small group tours. We're proud of being pioneers in our approach to group sizes and have become the leading operator for escorted holidays. Our group sizes vary between tours, but are our ranges are usually a good indicator of what to expect.

For our Discoveries range, you'll be in groups with an average of 30-35 travellers and a maximum of 40. If opting for our Classic collection, you'll be in groups with an average of 20-25 travellers and a maximum of 30*. Our Landmark holidays are where you'll find our smallest group sizes, starting from as low as 16 travellers and an average of 22, to a maximum of 30.

*Scandinavian and Worldwide tours are on average 30-35 and a maximum of 40.