Italy

Capital: Rome

Population: 58,870,762 (2023)

Language: The official language of Italy is Italian, spoken by the vast majority of the population. There are also regional languages and dialects, including Sicilian, Neapolitan, and Venetian, as well as recognised minority languages such as German, French, and Slovene in specific regions.

Currency: Euro (EUR)

Citizens of certain countries do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period in Italy and the Schengen Area. These include the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and many European countries. However, it is always advisable to check the latest visa requirements before travelling.

From May 2025, travellers from visa-exempt countries will need to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) approval before entering Italy. This is not a visa but a travel authorisation valid for three years or until passport expiration. The process is online, costs €7, and should be completed at least 96 hours before departure.

Those who require a Schengen visa must apply in advance at the nearest Italian embassy or consulate. Visa applications usually require a valid passport, a completed application form, a recent passport-size photo, proof of travel arrangements, and proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay.

It is always advisable to check the latest visa requirements and regulations before travelling to Italy. The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website provides up-to-date information on visa policies and entry regulations.

Italy experiences four distinct seasons, and the best time to visit depends on your interests, budget, and preferred activities.

Spring (March to May):

Spring is one of the best times to visit, with pleasant temperatures, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds than summer.

Temperatures range from 12°C to 22°C, perfect for exploring cities, vineyards, and coastal areas.

Popular destinations like Rome, Florence, and Venice are lively but not yet overrun with tourists.

April and May bring festivals, outdoor dining, and colorful countryside.

Summer (June to August):

Summer is the peak tourist season, with hot temperatures and crowded attractions, especially in major cities.

Temperatures often exceed 30°C, particularly in Rome and southern Italy.

Ideal for beach destinations like the Amalfi Coast, Sicily, and Sardinia.

Many cultural festivals take place, but hotel prices are at their highest.

Autumn/Fall (September to November):

Autumn offers mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and stunning fall colours, making it a great time to visit.

September and October are perfect for wine harvest season, with festivals in Tuscany and Piedmont.

Temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C, cooling down in November.

A great time for food lovers, as truffle season begins, and markets are filled with fresh produce.

Winter (December to February):

Winter is coldest in the north but offers a different kind of charm, especially for skiing and festive celebrations.

Alps and Dolomites are top spots for winter sports.

Cities like Rome and Florence are less crowded, with cheaper hotel prices.

December brings Christmas markets, while Venice’s Carnival in February is a major highlight.

The best time to visit Italy depends on what you want to experience — spring and autumn are ideal for sightseeing, summer for the coast, and winter for festive charm and skiing.