Italy Solo Travel
In this article
Are you thinking of traveling solo to Italy? Chances are that if you're to travel solo for the
first time, fear of the unknown will try to stop you. On the other hand, if it isn't your first
solo trip, you may become doubtful because you need to know what to expect.
For a start, Italy is a great place to be–especially if you love beautiful architecture,
ancient history, great food, and many more! It is one country where you will find amazing
beaches, fascinating city life, beautiful mountains, hidden picturesque villages, and many
other great tourist attractions.
So, Italy has a lot to offer travelers and tourists. And in this article, you will know what to
expect and how to adequately prepare as a solo traveler to Italy.
Why Is Italy a Great Travel Destination for Solo Travelers?
There are over a hundred plus reasons why you should visit Italy. It's a country of romance.
From the hilltop Tuscan towns to the serenading Venetian gondoliers, Italy has the magic.
Italy has something for every traveler. The landscape is also incredible. Considering the lines
of cypress trees hugging the Tuscan hills, the cliffs of Amalfi Coast, the lakes of Lombardy, etc.
What about its artistic legacy to the world? You'll see a display of Renaissance paintings in
cities such as Sienna, Urbino, and Florence. The food is also great; it's to die for, quoting
the popular clique. Even the smallest establishment guarantees the first-grade meal.
While all these are great, the big question is, are these things set for a solo traveler to enjoy?
Why should you go on a solo trip to Italy? Here are some salient reasons:
Italy Has a Well-Established Infrastructure for Tourism
Italy has been a popular travel destination for centuries, reaching its peak during the Grand Tour
of the 17th and 18th Centuries. As a result, it has had plenty of time to put its house in order
regarding the tourist infrastructure.
Therefore, there are several lodging options, including hostels in historic buildings, five-star
hotels, AirBnBs, etc. As a nation with such a great culinary legacy, Italy has restaurants in every
neighborhood to fit every budget.
Also, you will not have communication barriers because English is widely spoken in Italy, especially
by young people and in tourist hotspots.
Traveling Is Easy in Italy
It is easy to travel and move around Italy with its vast bus and train network. You can cover most of
the major destinations in Italy by train, including high-speed trains.
In cases where a train may not be able to take you to where you intend to go, then buses will
undoubtedly be available for that destination. Therefore, you will easily get to where you need to be.
The bus and train services are easy to find. Tickets and stations are also relatively easy to buy and
locate. The same goes for the bus services. You can ask around in case you need clarification
about anything.
There Is a Popular Tourist Route
Italy's infrastructure and transportation options support a well-planned tourism route. The locals
are welcoming and always willing to attend to the needs of a solo traveler and even more
accommodating to those who don't speak Italian.
Stay on the popular tourist route if this is your first time traveling alone to Italy. Unless you
don't want to associate, you will find other solo travelers you can roll with. In subsequent trips,
you can then explore other options.
Italy Is a Safe Place to Travel
Because tourism is one of the significant sources of revenue for the nation of Italy, security is
high. Besides, locals are happy to receive people from around the world, and the crime rate is low.
While Italy also has its share of crimes and insecurity, just like every other country, it's at the
bare minimum in Italy.
Italy Will Appear to Be a Familiar Place
The food you're used to ordering in your home country is the one you'll most likely find in Italy.
That's because Italian food and restaurants have widespread popularity. Ordering pasta or pizza
should come naturally.
11 Popular Solo Travel Destinations in Italy
Italy is a big country. You may only be able to visit some destinations on your first trip. Even
if you want to stay for a few months, there's no guarantee you'll be able to see it all. However,
while you visit per time, there are some major cities you may want to add to your bucket list.
Some of these places are great for first-time travelers—especially solo travelers because they
are easier to navigate, have more tourist visitation, etc. So, you can use these places to get
accustomed to the Italian way, and then it'll be easier to explore other locations on
subsequent visits.
These best and most popular solo traveler destinations include:
Dolomite Mountains
The dolomite Mountains located in the north of Italy are charming places with stunning scenery.
You'll find the pinnacles, meadows, and sheer cliffs in this region, as well as the Ritten earth
pyramids—the natural phenomenon with steep pyramidal shapes. This region is a UNESCO Natural
World Heritage Site because of its alpine scenery, glaciers, and valleys.
For adventurous activities in Italy, this region is well-liked by those who are daring and love
hiking, skiing, and rock climbing. But you can be adventurous to enjoy this mountainous region.
In Puez-Geisler, you can ride the funicular to the cliff of the mountain to take in the views
from the terrace or visit Val Gardena and the world-famous wood carvers.
The Italian Riviera
Cinque Terre, a collection of five Italian cities, is located along the Italian Riviera and is a
haven for hikers. To truly appreciate the breathtaking vistas as you gaze back along the coastline,
you must take one of the walking trails from one coastal town to another. The second town, Monorola,
is less populated by tourists but has a more picturesque landscape.
To get to some of the towns, take the train, which runs about every 30 minutes, or go on a hike. To
taste the regional wine, stop at one of the Monterosso wineries along your journey.
You can also make a pit stop at Portofino, a chic fishing village on the Italian Riviera. If you have
the time, walk to Rapallo along the coast or take the ferry.
Rome
For lone travelers, all roads do lead to Rome. That's the nation's capital and ought to be at the apex
of your list of Italian destinations.
Rome, one of Italy's historic locations, is immersed in the past as the ancient imperial capital
of the Roman Empire. Therefore, the city is full of Renaissance, modernity, and ancient treasures
to explore. You could easily spend days seeing this city at your speed, taking everything from the
Colosseum to the Pantheon, Vatican, and Trevi Fountain.
The Trevi fountain is the most well-known of the Piazza Novona's three substantial fountains. You
can toss a coin into the water and make a wish. Also, stroll along the Tiber River while discovering
the cobblestone streets. Then proceed to Villa Borghese to take in the beautiful
park's shady splendor.
Rome is the ideal location for experiencing a historical time warp, especially in the Colosseum,
a giant amphitheater built in 72 AD where you may visualize scenes from the Gladiator movie.
Join a food escapade and taste your way across the city if you want companionship. You should make
multiple restaurant stops and sample some of Rome's best pasta, pizza, and gelato while enjoying a
few glasses of wine.
Bologna
Superb food, that's Bologna's trick card. Ragù alla Bolognese—the meal that inspired numerous
Bolognese-inspired dishes worldwide, including the typical spaghetti Bolognese. This region is
where many of Italy's most famous delicacies are produced–speaking of treats such as; prosciutto
and mortadella, balsamic vinegar (DOP Balsamic di Modena), world-class parmesan
(DOP Parmigiano Reggiano), fresh stuffed tortellini, and local wines, including Lambrusco,
Pignoletto and Barera. For a more memorable experience, you might want to take cooking class
or try wine tasting.
But Bologna offers much more than delicious food. It's also an excellent site to stop for the
historical solo in Bologna, Italy. Visit the Two Towers and other historic towers from the Middle
Ages, or explore Renaissance architecture. At the same time, you spend some quality time
people-watching from one of the many cafés.
Consider Bologna's central Piazza Maggiore, and visit the Basilica di San Petronio before ascending
Asinelli Tower for sweeping views of the city.
Venice
Venice is a lagoon city in northern Italy. It's the most romantic city in Italy, and you'll feel every
bit of the romance even if you are alone. Do you know Venice is a floating city built from over 100
islands and connected by waterways?
Piazza San Marco (St. Mark's Square) is the most frequented square. It is the location of the
Gothic-styled Doge's Palace, the former palace of the Doge of Venice. But much of the fun of visiting
Venice is walking around without purpose on its streets and finding corners of the city to hide away
from the sometimes overwhelming tourist droves.
A single traveler's ideal pastime is meandering around art galleries and museums, and Venice is filled
with both. The Doge's Palace is the largest and most opulent of these, while the Museo Della
Fondazione Querini Stampalia is smaller and more personal.
Florence
With Renaissance art, shopping, galleries, and countless museums, Florence is one of the nation's
most stunning cities and a well-liked single visit in Italy. You won't ever feel lonely or disturbed
by anyone in this touristy city.
Florence solo travel is ideal whether you wish to travel alone for a few days or enjoy meeting new
people. You can quickly get lost in the beautiful streets while discovering various city areas.
The city is the ideal location for those who like art, architecture, and history. Visit Palazzo Pitti
and Uffizi Gallery, and it should be on your list. However, catch Palazzo out of all the places you
should see in Florence. To see sculptures in Florence, visit the Orsanmichele Church, Galleria
dell'Accademia, and the Bargello Museum.
Sicily
At the foot of Italy, off the coast of Malta, lies the island of Sicily. It is referred to as the most
diversified region in the nation and the most oversized island on the Mediterranean Coast. You can
hike to the crater of Mount Etna, the island's active volcano, from there.
Valle Dei Templi is an archaeological site and national monument in Italy where you can learn about
1000 years of history. Discover the holy places and temple remains of the goddesses and gods,
including the greatest preserved temple, Concordia.
The little settlement of Linguaglossa and Mount Etna National Park are ideal destinations for
nature enthusiasts.
Amalfi Coast
Amalfi Coast may be Italy's most stunning region. It is a 34-mile beach with spectacular scenery
and the best food you've tasted. The Amalfi Coast is so stunning that UNESCO has designated it as
a World Heritage Site.
To get to the Amari Coast, you have two options: either go by boat from Naples, Capri, Salerno,
or Paestum or by bus. Remember to visit the Blue Grotto—a naturally lit sea cave located on the
Italian island of Capri.
If you only have a little time, this location is fantastic because you can see places like Naples,
Sorrento, Pompeii, and Herculaneum in two days and get around quickly between them.
Be sure to visit Arienzo Beach Club in Positano for some leisurely beach time. Also, enjoy lemon
sorbet made from fresh lemons at Covo Dei Saraceni, and don't forget to enjoy yourself while
shopping at the many stores lining the town's main street.
Orvieto
Orvieto has over 20,000 residents and is the ideal small city to explore on foot without becoming
lost or overwhelmed.
In Orvieto, you'll find One San Giovenale—one of the city's earliest churches, built in 1004.
Explore the city walls and ascent Vicolo Malcorini Ripa Serancia for breathtaking views of the
town, which resembles a genuine "presepe."
Take advantage of the opportunity to descend St. Patrick's Well, which has two ramps arranged
in a double helix. This stunning location, designed by one of Italy's foremost High Renaissance
architects, has 248 steps and 70 windows illuminated today, giving it a perfect spot for pictures.
You can discover the foundations of Orvieto, made of volcanic tufa rock, by taking a leisurely trek
up the Anello della Rupe. This route takes between 60 and 90 minutes to complete as it travels around
the town's perimeter. Along the walk, you will pass by rock churches and see Orvieto's Etruscan
necropolis close to the Porta Vivaria entrance.
Milan
Milan is a city for enthusiasts in fashion and shopping. This northern city is regarded as Italy's
fashion capital. It's a great location, especially if traveling solo since you can spend more time
discovering Milan's boutiques, even if you are only window shopping.
Although Milan is relatively large, it has an excellent metro system to take you around. You can
also do the free walking tour and if you have a few days, choose your adventure carefully because
there is a lot to see.
The Duomo Milan should be at the apex of your list of fun things to do in Milan. It's the most
breathtaking piece of architecture in the city. Therefore, this cathedral is a must-see when visiting
Italy. There are many exciting locations, such as the San Siro stadium, where David Beckham formerly
played for AC Milan.
Verona
The city of Verona is next to Lake Garda, it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you enjoyed Romeo and
Juliet, you must visit Verona, Italy, as it was the backdrop for one of the most tragic love tales.
You’ll get to see the emblems for modern love stories; Juliet's balcony, the lover's wall, and the
padlocked hearts, all in Verona. Due to the area's proximity to vineyards, it is also a fantastic
location for wine get-togethers.
Aside from these well-known attractions, there are
hidden gems in Italy worth exploring if you’re
curious by nature or just want to experience this magnificent country in a more personal way.
Solo Travel to Italy: Useful Advice
By now, you probably can't resist the urge to visit these places. But, before you take off, there are
some things you need to know. Also, as you pack your travel bag, some items are essential for your
Italy tours. You need these items and the tips for your journey to be fun and filled. So,
what are they? They are:
Take a Water bottle and a Multi-purpose Bag
You need a water bottle for your proper hydration as you travel around the city of Italy.
You also need a good crossbody bag to hold the water bottle in! It should be big enough also
to hold other items such as your credit cards, cash, keys, etc.
Have a Map of Italy
It's highly essential for proper navigation as you solo travel Italy. Many years ago,
tourists—especially those traveling solo—would have to carry a paper map and stop at intervals
to check. Today, all you need is a Google map or another electronic map on your phone.
Learn a Thing or Two About the Local Transportation
While the transport network is relatively easy to catch, you may need to find out which train, bus,
or whatever means of transportation is essential to take. Your Google map may sometimes assist with
that, but if not, ask the locals.
Cover-up in Churches and Religious Sites
As a female solo traveler, you must cover up your head at any Italian religious site. You may only
fancy this tip once you land in Italy and find yourself in one of the religious sites. You may be
compelled to buy a scarf on the spot and expensively at that. So, why spend that much when you can
go with a scarf you already own?
There are other simple but cogent tips. They are:
- Get a local sim card to use your phone at a cheaper cost.
- Travel with an EU adapter so that you can keep charging.
- Go with an extra debit card, for when one card doesn't work, you can use the other.
- Buy and pay for things using the local currency; it's cheaper because it's free of conversion charges.
- Learn key phrases in Italian.
- Meet friends! That you traveled solo doesn't mean you should tour alone or not make friends.
- Go with a great camera. Most people use their phones these days, but if you can get a portable camera, it'll do more.
Currency
The only legal tender in Italy is the Euro, in line with the rest of the EU. It will either
be written as "EUR" or "€."
Tipping: Is It Required in Italy?
First off, leaving a tip is neither expected nor mandatory in Italy, but if you do, the action clearly
shows that you were pleased with the service.
Even though many of us enjoy tipping or are, at the very least, used to doing so, it's essential to
remember that different customs may apply based on the service provider.
Many restaurants in Italy offer bread and oil to their customers in exchange for what is known as a
coperto or cover payment. Note that not your particular waitress, but the restaurant receives the
coperto.
While eating breakfast, lunch, or dinner in Italy, if you decide to leave a tip, the amount will
be determined by the terms of your receipt. If the service was good and improved your experience,
you should round your amount up to the nearest tens. That way, locals frequently leave this as a
monetary tip for their waitress in such circumstances.
The Best time to Visit Italy
The ideal months to visit Italy are May, June, September, and October. They are also the most
expensive and crowded times to travel, with summertime still being very busy in the north.
Despite the crowds, these months offer peak season convenience and good weather.
Keep in mind that winter in Italy is worth experiencing too.
There are several winter attractions
to see and winter sports to enjoy, in addition to perks like fewer tourists and lower prices.
Etiquette Inside Churches and Religious Sites
Italian churches are revered religious buildings with strict yet uncomplicated dress standards.
In all churches in Italy, you must wear shoes and cover your shoulders and knees. These rules
cannot be debated.
The last thing a woman wants to do in the summer in Rome, which can become pretty hot, is cover
the neck and knees. However, wear shorts and a tank top if the temperature is extremely high
(usually in August). But come along with a scarf to cover up.
Is It Safe to Travel to Italy?
Like many other European countries, Italy is relatively safe. There are hardly any reports of
violent assaults or armed robberies from tourists and citizens. The only high-chance crimes you
may encounter as a tourist are spiking drinks unattended at bars, light and fraud tourist scams,
petty theft, pickpocketing at crowded places, public transport, and taxis.
Solo Female Travel to Italy: Cities to Avoid
The majority of Italy is relatively safe; therefore, there aren't many areas you need to avoid.
The smaller villages and Southern cities in Italy may be best avoided if you are new to solo
travel because the locals there don't speak English very well.
That would be regions where English is not widely spoken, such as Puglia (a fantastic place
to visit). Additionally, we would only advise visiting towns like Naples and Palermo if you have
previous solo travel experience because they may be a little imperfect.
Traveling Solo to Italy: Do You Need a Visa?
Depending on your nationality, you might require an Italian visa to go to Italy. All other Schengen
countries are permitted to travel without a visa for a maximum of 90 days because Italy is a member
of the Schengen region.
The same is true for nationals of the EU/EEA, Switzerland, and a few other nations that do not require
a visa. However, If you intend to stay more than 90 days, there are other rules. You need a different
kind of visa.
Foreign visitors to Italy may enter using a variety of visas, including some of the following:
short-stay visas, tourist visas, and long-term visas. It is also recommended you get your travel
insurance before embarking on the trip.
On the other side, eligible non-Europeans will have to
get ETIAS to enter Italy. The European Travel Information and
Authorization System visa waiver will be active starting in 2023. Visitors to Italy can
apply online and get their authorization swiftly and with
the least amount of hassle.
FAQs
1. Is Italy good for Solo Travellers?
Italy is a terrific location for someone new to solo travel because there are many unique places to explore, foods to sample, and things to visit there. Italy offers a wealth of sights and activities and provides the ideal transition from a complete solo travel novice to a seasoned solo traveler.2. Is Italy safe for solo female travel?
Yes. Italy is safe for solo female travelers. There are hardly any violent crimes; pickpockets and minor thieves are common crimes. So, just follow all safety precautions and tips and you will be fine.As in any large city, keeping an eye on your bags and locking up your luggage is crucial. You can check out our Italy’s safety travel advice.
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