204. Tips for your first trip to Italy and/or a refresh!
Author: Kimberly Holcombe
January 21, 2026
Duration: 31:04
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In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso share essential tips for a smooth first trip to Italy. They offer advice on everything from arrival to transportation and local etiquette. This episode helps travelers avoid common mistakes and enjoy their Italian experience.
Key Points for First-Timers:
Arrival and Taxis:
When you arrive at the airport, look for official white taxis with city emblems or company names.
Do not accept rides from unauthorized individuals offering cheaper fares.
Have your hotel address ready and practice the correct pronunciation beforehand to tell it to the driver. Using translation apps can help.
Hotel Expectations:
Be ready for smaller hotel rooms, beds, and cars compared to what you might expect.
Air conditioning may not be as strong or as flexible as in other countries. It might have temperature limits or seasonal availability.
Coffee Culture and Etiquette:
To order coffee, pay at the “Cassa” (cash register) first, get a receipt, then take it to the barista.
A “latte” in Italy is mostly steamed milk. Research coffee options like espresso, macchiato, ristretto and cappuccino.
Avoid ordering milk-based coffees like lattes or cappuccinos after 11:00 AM. Italians believe milk after this time slows digestion.
Standing at the coffee bar is common and often cheaper than sitting at a table. Do not bring a laptop to work if you sit down.
Train Travel:
Italian trains are generally timely, reliable, and clean. Book seats in advance due to high visitor numbers.
If you buy a paper ticket at the station, validate it at a freestanding machine before boarding. Failure to do so can result in a fine.
Online tickets come with a QR code. Have it ready when you pass through electronic gates to the track.
Choose the correct train number, not just the destination, to avoid getting on the slow regional trains.
Travel with small carry-on suitcases or backpacks. Large suitcases should be stored at the end of each car.
Rental Cars and Driving:
Obtain an International Driver’s License before your trip. Most rental agencies require it.
Rent from known companies like Europcar, Hertz, or Avis. Avoid cheaper, lesser-known options.
Before driving off, video record the entire car to document any existing damage. Kimberly and Tomasso share a story about this.
Be aware of ZTL (Zona Traffico Limitato) signs, which restrict traffic in historic city centers. Driving in these zones can lead to high fines.
Parking is indicated by colored lines: white for free, blue for paid (use kiosks), and yellow for reserved spaces.
General Etiquette and Recommendations:
Be polite and patient. A simple “Buongiorno” or “Buonasera” with a smile goes a long way.
Dress appropriately. Italians pride themselves on fashion, so avoid casual attire like t-shirts and flip-flops in cities.
Embrace later dinner times. Locals typically eat later, so dining at 6:00 PM will likely mean you will be dining only with other tourists.
Remember that staff members deal with many tourists daily, all season long. Be understanding and thankful.
