Homeric Tours is a distinguished leader in travel to Italy, and there are a few tips to know when traveling in this amazing country.
PASSPORT
You don't need a visa to travel to Italy from the United States but, obviously, you do need a passport. Be sure your passport has at least six months of validity when traveling abroad. Many countries are leery of visitors whose passports are expiring around the time of the trip's conclusion.
CURRENCY
Italy is still a member of the European Union and, thusly, uses the euro as its currency. Coinage is available in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, as well as coins worth 1 and 2 Euros. Paper money comes in units of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 Euros. Homeric suggests you exchange your money in a bank, as opposed to the hotel, in order to get the best exchange rate. Note, however, this is Europe and banks and restaurants and retail stores and other establishments have unique hours. Banks are open from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., close for 90 minutes, and re-open for an hour from 3 to 4 p.m. Banks are open Monday to Friday.
MUSEUMS AND HISTORIC SITES
See above. If you're thinking about taking a late afternoon stroll over to one of the great museums of Rome, don't. Museums are generally open from 9 a.m. to 1 or 2 p.m., and closed on Mondays, although hours do vary. Check first.
[READMORE]READ MORE: Make It A Bucket List Item To Visit Mykonos[/READMORE]
ELECTRICAL CURRENT IN HOTELS
Varies from city to city. It is best to travel with dual current appliances with plug adapters.
DINING OUT
You thought we were kidding about the whole schedule thing, didn't you? If you're thinking of an early-bird special, don't. Many Italian restaurants do not even open until 7 p.m. Also, Italians consider it somewhat rude if you pull a Meg Ryan and ask for numerous changes to an item on the menu or to have things 'on the side.' Stick to the description on the menu. Italians also believe in long, slow, conversation-filled meals. They won't bring the check to you until you are done and ready to leave the restaurant and ask for it.
LANGUAGE
Take a few days prior to your trip to learn some basic Italian phrases. Unlike snobbish France, the Italian people will appreciate it.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
