Our guide to Italy

Europe
Travel guide

Written on31.01.25

Discover Italy, a country with an exceptional cultural heritage, where each region reveals sublime landscapes, renowned gastronomy and fascinating history. This guide will help you organize your trip and make the most of your stay in Italy.

Find out more about Italy

Italy, at the heart of the Mediterranean, is famous for its art cities, villages, landscapes and unmissable cuisine. Each region offers an experience combining historical heritage and dolce vita. Here are a few must-see destinations:

Rome, the eternal city

The capital of Italy, Rome is a veritable open-air museum. From the Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain, from the Vatican to the Sistine Chapel, the city is brimming with historical and architectural treasures.

Florence and Tuscany

Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is home to artistic masterpieces such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Duomo. Nearby Tuscany offers rolling countryside, famous vineyards and medieval villages such as San Gimignano and Siena.

Venice and its canals

One of a kind, Venice is a romantic city of gondolas on the Grand Canal. Don't miss St. Mark's Square, the Rialto Bridge and the islands of Murano and Burano.

Naples and the Amalfi Coast

Naples is the birthplace of real pizza and a gateway to Vesuvius, Pompeii and the spectacular Amalfi Coast, where colorful villages like Positano and Ravello nestle between sea and cliff.

Northern lakes

Lake Como, Lake Maggiore and Lake Garda are ideal destinations for relaxing by the water, surrounded by mountains and elegant villages.

Sicily and Sardinia

These Mediterranean islands offer heavenly beaches, ancient sites such as the Valley of the Temples in Sicily, and rich culinary traditions.

A few things you need to know

How do I get there?

From Paris, a flight to Rome, Milan or Venice takes around 1h30 to 2h. Round-trip air tickets cost on average 100 to 300 euros, depending on the period and airline.

Discover all our flights and our best prices directly on our flight booking platform.

How long would you ideally like to spend there?

To discover Italy in depth, we recommend at least a week, depending on the regions you wish to explore. A trip of 10 to 15 days allows you to combine cultural visits with moments of relaxation.

What documents do I need to get there?

For European Union nationals, a valid ID card or passport is sufficient.
No visa is required for a short-term tourist stay.

To communicate on the spot...

Italian is the official language, but English is understood in major cities and tourist spots. Here are some useful expressions:

Buongiorno : Hello
Grazie : Thank you
Per favore : Please
Quanto costa? : How much does it cost?
Il conto, per favore : The bill, please

The currency

Italy is part of the euro zone (EUR), which makes payments easier for travelers coming from France. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry a little cash for small shops and tips.

When is the best time to visit Italy?

Italy enjoys a Mediterranean climate with distinct seasons:

Spring (April to June) : Ideal for visiting cities and enjoying mild temperatures.
Summer (July-August) : Hot, touristy season, perfect for beaches, but the big cities can get crowded.
Fall (September-October): Pleasant climate, fewer tourists and beautiful scenery.
Winter (November-March): Ideal for sightseeing without the crowds and enjoying the Alpine ski resorts.

What are Italy's culinary specialities?

Italian cuisine is world-renowned for its authentic flavors and fresh produce. Here are a few must-tries:

Pastas : Carbonara (without cream!), bolognese, cacio e pepe, pesto...
Pizzas : Neapolitan, margherita, quattro formaggi...
Risottos : Creamy and fragrant, especially in Lombardy.
Antipasti: Cold meats, cheeses and bruschettas.
Desserts: Tiramisu, panna cotta, Sicilian cannoli.
Wine and coffee: Don't leave without trying an espresso or cappuccino in the morning!

Time difference with France

Italy is in the same time zone as France (GMT+1 in winter, GMT+2 in summer). No adaptation necessary!

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Italy!

Whether you're passionate about history, gastronomy, picturesque landscapes or lazing by the sea, Italy is sure to seduce you.

Happy travels, and don't hesitate to share your experience with us by mentioning us on social networks or using the hashtag #atcroutesdumonde!