Italy
General Italy Tourism Information
Most people don't need to be told why Italy is worth visiting. However, the following sites provide a useful overview for anyone wanting a taste of la dolce vita, including the country's most beautiful cities and regions, and of course, the cuisine.
Dulcinea's Insight
- August is the month when Italians go on vacation, and (for understandable reasons) most of them stay within their national borders. Hotels fill up and many shops and restaurants close. Plan your trip for another month if you can.
- Venice is high up on many a traveler's to-do list. However, central Venice gets very crowded in the summer. Because its architecture, galleries, and romantic ambiance aren't dependent on the seasons for their appeal, consider visiting at another time of year. (Some canals get a little pungent in the summer heat, which is another reason to go in the off-season.)
- In pricey restaurants, you ought to leave the kind of tip that's customary in America: around 15-20 percent of the check. But the staff in less costly establishments won't expect a gratuity.
- The Rome City Break Feature in our Netcetera section covers the attractions of Italy's capital, providing the resources you need to make the most of the Eternal City.
Dulcinea's Picks
Travel Requirements for Italy
Here you'll find links to sites providing practical information on the more mundane aspects of ... read more »
Getting to Italy
If you're coming from the United States, you'll probably fly to Italy, although if you're already ... read more »
Getting around Italy
As slowly as possible is one answer. You'll have more time to enjoy the view when you travel by ... read more »
Italy Hotels
Italy's architecture and countryside are perhaps its two greatest assets. Depending on which of ... read more »
Books and Travel Blogs on Italy
Reading the accounts of other travelers' explorations is a great way to add an extra dimension to ... read more »








