Before-You-Go Travel Tips for Italy

Weather in Southern Italy
Home to such remarkable tourist destinations as scenic Naples, fairytale Amalfi, and sun-kissed Bari, as well as many others, the south of the country is among the most visited regions in Italy for the fans of the beach holidays as well as sightseeing enthusiasts alike.

Southern Italy's weather boasts rather high temperatures, regardless of the coast you are planning to travel to. During the summer months, an average temperature is 25-30°C (77-86°F), so if you don't withstand the heat very well, we recommend planning your holiday for the late spring or early autumn, when the average temperature is about 24°C (75°F) and rarely climbs higher than 27°C (80°F).

The winters in Southern Italy are rather chilly with an average temperature of 10°C (50°F), the days are mostly bright and sunny. Although the rainy season in Italy falls on late autumn - early spring, the winter days in Souther Italy can sometimes bring rains as well (rarely snowfalls), so it's better to pack a couple of warm sweaters and an umbrella if you are planning to visit the region in winter.

Northern Italy Weather
Every year thousands of people choose the region of Northern Italy as a setting for their perfect holiday. Housing some of the renowned Italian cities, the northern part of the country boasts milder weather compared to Southern Italy's climate. In summer, the Northern Italy temperature boasts an average of approximately 25°C (77°F).

But don't let an average temperature fool you. In July, the temperature can rise over 30°C (85°F), which, combined with a high level of humidity, can make sightseeing during the day very challenging.

The late spring and early autumn, on the other hand, boast an average temperature of 22°C (77°F), close to none rainy days, and much fewer people than during the peak of the tourist season. The nights tend to be cooler than during the summertime, although not enough to pack your winter pajamas for the trip.

Northern Italy's climate in winter boats the average temperature of 2°C (36°F), so although it's not the most comfortable season to explore the sights of Italy, it's a great time to plan a trip to Italian Alps if you are a skiing enthusiast.

Weather in Sicily & Sardinia
The two magnificent islands, nestled on the far south of the country, boast the most comfortable winter weather conditions in the country. The average temperature in January there is approximately 12°C (53°F), and the citizens can enjoy about 4-5 hours of sunshine a day!

During the summer, the islands are a paradise for the sun worshippers with an average temperature of 30°C (86°F), barely any rains, and 11 hours of sunlight.

What is the present currency of Italy?
Are you already planning all the details regarding your unforgettable tour of Italy? If you were looking for more information about currency in Italy, you’ve come on the right page. As in the majority of European Union countries, the Euro (EUR) serves as the official currency in Italy. If you are wondering what was Italy’s money before the Euro, the Italian Lira was used as official currency across the land till January 1st, 1999. Today there are banknotes in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 Euros available as well as coins that go from 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents to 1 and 2 Euros.

How to exchange currency in Italy?
You can easily exchange cash in one of the official currency exchange offices or local banks. We would like to pay your attention that you may be charged an extra commission for the operation. Small tip: don’t rush to get some cash right at the airport upon arrival as the exchange rates are often worse than if you buy Euros in the city center.

What to Know About Electricity in Italy
Impossible to argue with the fact that a well-organized holiday in Italy is an unforgettable experience. But before you can set off on your grand adventure in this sun-kissed country, there is something very important you need to take care of first, pack your suitcase. And although this obligation is definitely a pleasant one, a foretaste of what lies ahead, it can cause a bit of trouble if not done right. And that's why it's important to research the question of Italy's electric plugs beforehand.

The most important thing to know is that Italy plugs differ from the ones in the United States. They are of European standard (with round pins), boasting the 220V voltage. So if, for example, your smartphone charger has an American plug (with flat pins) for 120V, you need to use a power adapter to be able to charge it in Italy. Of course, you can always buy one upon arrival, but to avoid unnecessary stress, we advise to get one in advance.

Tipping Etiquette in Italy's Restaurants
Italy is famous for its outstanding cuisine. The list of "must-try" national dishes is so extensive that one holiday might not be enough to cross out them all. And there is no better way to explore the mouthwatering world of local delicacies than checking out the local restaurants in every Italian city you visit.

Well, it's hard to imagine a more magical way to spend an evening than enjoying a delicious dinner with your loved one, accompanied by a glass of local wine and spectacular views. But if you have never been to Italy before, you might want to know what is the tipping etiquette there.

First of all, keep in mind that the tip might already be included in your bill (look for the "Servizio" line in the receipt). If it's not the case and you would likу to thank the waiter for the provided service, feel free to leave a tip of 5-10% by bill amount.

Tipping Tour Guides in Italy
Let's talk about another situation when you might want to leave a tip, an escorted tour. If you've enjoyed the excursion, learned a lot of interesting facts, and seen plenty of amazing things (and it's always the case when you travel with Firebird), you are welcome to express your gratitude by leaving 10-euro tip to a tour guide. If you would like to thank the driver as well, a 5-euro tip would be much appreciated.