Italy, with its rich history, stunning landscapes and “La Dolce Vita” lifestyle is a dream destination for many. But what surprises most people is how affordable this iconic destination can be. With some savvy planning and budget-friendly strategies, you can experience the magic of Italy without draining your savings. Here’s our favorite tips on how to travel to Italy on a budget.
Be Flexible : Travel in the off-peak season
High season, from June to August, sees higher prices as most people choose to travel during this time. Popular destinations become filled with tourists, which combined with scorching heat can make for a frustrating and uncomfortable experience. For a more affordable option, consider traveling in shoulder seasons such as spring (April to June) or autumn (September – October). These months are still a fabulous time to travel as the weather is still fantastic and deals can be found on flights, accommodations and excursions. For even deeper savings, consider traveling in winter. While many of the beach destinations may close for the winter months, the major cities are great options for winter travel. The Italian Alps are also popular in the winter season, and are much more affordable than their popular neighbor Switzerland.
Be on the Hunt: Search for deals on airfare and accommodations
The two largest budget items for many travelers are the cost of airfare and accommodations. Use fare comparison websites to track airfare prices and set price alerts. Consider flying into surrounding cities that may have airfare deals and then arrive to Italy by train or low cost airlines. Arrive in major European hubs rather than smaller regional airports that may be right near your destination.
Expand your accommodation search to include hostels, vacation rentals or an agriturismo (Italy’s version of a rural bed and breakfast). Consider staying outside popular tourist neighborhoods in the cities.
Eat like a local
Prevent overspending by avoiding eating in restaurants that cater to tourists, such as establishments located right beside famous attractions. Dine where the locals do, in trattorias and osterias out of the way from main squares. Another budget option is the local street food scene or you can grab a few items from a grocery store and enjoy a picnic in a nearby park.
If a sit down meal is more your thing, avoid restaurants with menus that feature an extremely large amount of dishes or pictures of every dish. These typically cater to tourists and charge higher prices.
Booking a vacation rental with a kitchen is also a great idea for families or large groups. Groceries in Italy are extremely affordable, fresh and delicious. You can stock up on items for breakfast, lunch or just to have some snacks on hand so you aren’t forced to eat at a restaurant for every meal.
Sightseeing and Attractions
Attempting to see all that Italy offers culturally could take a lifetime, so do your research on which museums and attractions are most interesting to you. History lovers will find an abundance of Roman and Etruscian ruins, art lovers will have plenty of museums to choose from and architecture enthusiasts will marvel at the beauty and diversity of the buildings in each region.
Many cities offer museum cards that can offer discounts on multiple attractions such as Roma Pass in Rome. If you are a student or have children, many attractions offer free or discounted passes to youths. There are also many lesser known but free attractions, so research what each place you are visiting has to offer and for popular attractions be sure to get your tickets early.
Stay Safe
Nothing ruins a lovely trip like being a victim of pickpocketing. Unfortunately this is a widespread issue in Europe that affects many tourists every year. Be sure to always be aware of your surroundings especially in busy crowded areas such as trains or metro stations. Do not flaunt excess wealth such as an excessive amount of designer items, expensive watches or jewelry.
Purses are a common target, thieves are so skilled and quick many do not even realize they have been victimized. Use a cross body strap and select a purse with a closure such as a zipper. Be sure to keep your bag in front of you when you walk and keep a hand on all valuables in crowded areas. Never leave bags, cameras or phones unattended in restaurants.
The key to travel Italy on a budget is ensuring you come home with amazing memories, not unexpected bills from having to replace valuables.
Conclusion: How to Travel Italy on a Budget
It is no wonder that Italy is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, but don’t let this countries popularity fool you into thinking you can’t enjoy all Italy has to offer on a budget. With careful planning and these tips, you can enjoy an amazing vacation without breaking the bank!
