Italy is the cradle of European civilization and the most visited country in the world by tourists. Every year, several million people arrive in Rome alone, the local cuisine has acquired legends, and the traditions of the Italians have influenced the culture of many countries, including Russia. And it is not surprising that this country, despite the crises, continues to lead in terms of the number of tickets sold, both in winter and in summer.
So, if you are wondering where to relax, Italy will be a great place that combines the richest excursions and outdoor activities.
Pros and cons of Italy
Despite the huge popularity, holidays in Italy have many positive and negative sides, which you should know about in advance.
Advantages
- A huge historical heritage, the architecture of antiquity, the richest museums of world importance.
- Variety of relief: active recreation is possible both in summer on the sea coast and in winter in the mountains.
- Possibility of rest with children – in each resort town there are children’s entertainment areas.
- Unique traditions of cuisine and winemaking.
- The one and only Venice is the pearl of the Italian north.
- It is Italy that the whole world is grateful for Milan – the capital of world fashion.
- The Vatican is the smallest state in the world and at the same time the residence of the Pope.
- The cultural life of Italy is known throughout the world for its vibrant festivals and holidays.
- Italian Sicily is not only the birthplace of the mafia, but also a unique beach resort.
Disadvantages
- You need a Schengen visa to travel.
- Life “inside” popular tourist routes is very expensive – from accommodation to cafes and entertainment.
- Italians are not only temperamental, but also very principled – less than 40% of the population speaks a foreign language. You will need to bring a phrase book with you.
- Large cities have a very high level of pickpocketing and street crime in general.
- In summer, there are kilometer-long queues in front of the main attractions.
Important: Despite some significant drawbacks of the holiday, Italy can be called one of the best European countries for tourists. In summer it is the main world excursion center, and in winter the country is ideal for celebrating Christmas and New Year, as well as ski tours to the legendary Alpine resorts.
Climate
According to toppharmacyschools.org, most guides characterize the climate of Italy as subtropical Mediterranean, but those who have lived in the country for more than a month and have traveled to all regions know that weather conditions are varied even in summer. But in general, Italy is a warm European country, reliably protected by the Alpine ridge from northern winds, cold winters and a lot of precipitation at any time of the year.
Sicily, together with Palermo, is rightfully considered the hottest region in Italy – the average maximum summer temperature can reach +36 ° C in the shade.
Frequently asked Questions
Question:
Where is the cheapest place to eat in Italy?
Answer:
There is only one advice here – avoid cafes and restaurants near the main tourist streets. Almost certainly, prices there will be 3-4 times higher than in an institution in a neighboring yard. A good indicator is the absence of tourists in the hall and the menu is only in Italian.
Question:
Is there free Wi-Fi everywhere in Italy?
Answer:
No, not everywhere. Even in luxury hotels, you sometimes have to pay extra for the possibility of wireless Internet access. Not so long ago, the social program “Provincia Wi-Fi” was launched in the country, according to which all attractions and museums provide free access to the Internet on their territory. It works, but not everywhere yet.
Question:
How profitable is it to buy things in outlets in Milan and other cities? Are there any discounts?
Answer:
The very policy of any outlet is the sale of last year’s collections of clothes and accessories, so the discount is initially included in the price. But even they have sales days. Such days are announced a maximum of a couple of days in advance, so as not to cause crush and excitement at the box office. Therefore, most often getting on a discount is a matter of luck.
Question:
What is the best way to buy train tickets in Italy? In the stations themselves or not on the site?
Answer:
The easiest way is at the station, if only because there are trained cashiers who speak several languages. The vast majority of Italian sites selling train tickets are not even translated into English.
Question:
How is tourist tax collected in Italy?
Answer:
This tax, introduced relatively recently, is already included in the cost of accommodation for foreigners in every hotel, regardless of region. If your tour operator insists on any additional fees, chances are they are trying to scam you.
Question:
Are all beaches in Italy free?
Answer:
No, as in any resort in any country, in Italy there are so-called VIP sections of the coast, where even entry fees are charged. As a rule, such sectors are fenced with a low fence, and there is a booth at the entrance where you can buy a ticket and pay for equipment rental.
