Italy was everything we hoped for and more, but as first-time visitors, my husband and I definitely did a few things wrong, so here are some lessons we learned that could have saved us time, money, and some unnecessary stress.
Overpacking for every scenario
Traveling with two huge suitcases trying to lug them up and down cobblestone streets in Rome was not an experience we anticipated. It became sort of a joke between us: How much stuff do you really need? Spoiler alert: Not a lot. Pack clothing that can be mixed and matched, shoes you can walk in, and leave room for souvenirs. Trust me, your back (and sanity) will thank you.
Skipping advanced bookings
We decided we’d just “show up” at the Vatican Museums and buy tickets. That was a big mistake. After waiting in line for over two hours, we vowed to always pre-book. Skip-the-line tickets are worth their weight in gold, particularly at the Colosseum and the Uffizi Gallery. Always book ahead. It’ll give you more time exploring and less time waiting in lines.
Eating near tourist attractions
Hungry after seeing the Leaning Tower of Pisa, we stopped at the first restaurant we saw. The food was uninspired, expensive and clearly catered to tourists. Lesson learned: walk a few blocks away from the main tourist attractions. The best meals we had were at tucked-away, family owned trattorias that our hosts recommended.
Trying to do too much
In our excitement, we crammed Florence, Rome, Venice & the Amalfi Coast into one visit. On the fourth day, we were tired and hardly able to digest anything. Italy is best savored slowly. Choose fewer places and spend time at each. And you’ll appreciate the culture and pace so much more.
Ordering cappuccinos after noon
We didn’t even know cappuccinos are a breakfast-only specialty in Italy. When we ordered them after lunch, the waiter smirked and nodded. We’ve clearly broken an unwritten rule here. Limit yourself to espresso after 11 am. It’s quick, delicious, & Italian.
Assuming everyone speaks English
English is spoken by most in the big cities, but this was not always true in the smaller ones. It only took some elementary Italian, such as “Grazie” (thank you) and “Scusi” (“excuse me”), to make a difference. Locals liked the effort – it was much easier to interact with them.
Underestimating the siesta
In Siena, we had planned to have lunch at 3 pm. But most restaurants were closed for the afternoon. There are siesta hours in smaller towns. Make your plans to eat accordingly, or you’ll end up starving like us.
Forgetting to validate train tickets
On our first train ride, we didn’t know we had to validate our tickets in the little machines on the platform. Thank goodness a kindly stranger helped us avoid a fine. When you take a regional train, check your ticket at the train platform before you board. It’s a simple thing, and so easy to miss.
Not carrying cash
We assumed cards worked everywhere. It was a mistake on our part. We couldn’t buy a pizza from a small pizzeria in Naples. They only accepted cash. If you visit local markets and small boutiques, have cash. Most small shops, markets, and cafés accept it.
Wearing the wrong shoes
Rome taught us a lesson about cobblestones. My husband’s sneakers were stylish, but not sturdy enough for all that walking. Blisters were inevitable. Put on supportive, good shoes as you’ll walk more than you realize.
Underestimating the heat
We came in July, thinking we could handle the hot summer. Nope. It was sweltering, especially in Rome and Florence. Drink plenty of water, dress light, and arrange indoor activities during the hottest times of day. Try to avoid the peak of summer.
Skipping travel insurance
Do we really need travel insurance? We debated this and ended up deciding we could live without it. Guess what happened? My husband’s bag got delayed. And we had spent our own money on multiple trips to the store to buy various necessities. Travel insurance can be annoying, but if something happens, you’ll be thankful you got it.
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