Italy is one of the most popular travel destinations. Regardless of the season, travelers come here to visit the beautiful sites, enjoy the good food and relax in the country side. No matter how hard you try, it’s impossible to visit the entire country during a single (short) vacation…so you’ll definitely have enough reasons to come back.
>>If you are visiting Italy for the first time, make sure to read this Italy First Time Visitor Visitor Guide and get to know the country a little bit before departing.
Planning your budget
The popularity is always followed by expensive rates and Italy, unfortunately, makes no exception. However, there are ways to “trick” the system and find a reasonably priced Italy vacation package . First of all, you need to be willing to sacrifice the time of the year. We know that most people want to come to Italy during summer but summer is the most expensive period (not to mention the most crowded). The next best choice is autumn. The shoulder season is perfect for those looking for a bargain. The hotels are struggling to get visitors now so they have various offers available. Better yet, if you feel adventurous, you can try looking for some last minute packages, which are always the best priced.
During autumn and especially in November, it is easy to create your own package as well. Should you need the flexibility to visit different places or just don’t have enough days off to get a package, then you can book the airfare and hotels separately. Cheap flights to Italy are easy to find now and you should try to fly into one of the major airports: Milan, Rome or Venice. They receive a lot of international flights and the fares are cheaper than if you would fly into a smaller airport.
Although Italy does have a reputation of being an expensive travel destination, cheap hotels in Italy can be found in pretty much any city. You can also consider setting a “base” in Rome or Milan and then take day trips to other cities you want to visit.
Things to do in Italy
Italy is alive and kicking no matter when you come here. There are festivals taking place all over the country and November is the White Truffles month so be prepared for a lot of fairs.
November 1 marks the All Saints Day, which is a national holiday in Italy.
The Alba White Truffle Festival takes place in the town of Alba (Piedmont region) and is one of the biggest truffles festivals in the country.
During the last two weekends of November, the San Miniato Truffle Fair takes place in San Miniato (Tuscany). You can enjoy the good food and check out the craft stands. There’s also entertainment at the fair.
>>Read more about Holidays & Festivals in Italy
Where to stay
Whether you plan to visit Italy for the food, festivals or sights, you need a place to stay, which is both affordable and in a good location. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Rome: Diocleziano B&B is a B&B located in Rome, near Termini Station. There’s free wi-fi within the hotel. Breakfast is included in the room price. Room rates start at €57.60 per night for a double room (bathroom ensuite).
Florence: Hotel Garden is located close to the train station (10 min walk). It has been recently renovated and all rooms have private bathroom and TV. Breakfast is included in the room price. Room rates start at €26.20 per night for a double room (bathroom ensuite).
Venice: B&B Rota is located in the heart of the city, in a 500 years old building. Breakfast is included in the room rates; there’s free wi-fi within the property. The guests can use the shared kitchen. Towels and linen are provided. The restaurant offers a cheap backpackers menu for only €8. Room rates start at €31.40 per night in a double room (bathroom ensuite).
Milan: Hotel San Tomaso is located in the city center. The city’s sights, restaurants and shops are within easy reach. There’s free wi-fi within the hotel. Room rates start at €34.55 per night in a double room (bathroom ensuite).
Naples: Fabric Hostel & Club is located in Portici, a small neighborhood south of Naples downtown. It offers a common room and free wi-fi within the property. The linen and towels are included in the room rates. Room rates start at €20.70 per night in a double room (shared bathroom).
Photos by Jessica Spiegel and may not be used without permission.
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