Traveling to Italy in 2022? We asked you what you wanted to know about travel to Italy, and our friend, Operations Coordinator, and Italian resident, Bethany, answered your questions with her local perspective. She gives an inside look at what it’s like to travel to Italy and what you can expect, from what to eat to current Covid restrictions.

Is it easy to find gluten-free options in Italy?

Plate of pasta on table with drinks and people in the background

Yes, it’s very easy to find gluten-free options when ordering pizza and pasta. One important thing to note is that if you are Celiac make sure to make that distinction with the waiter or waitress before your meal.

What is the best restaurant in La Spezia, Italy?

My favorite restaurant is Osteria de Bartoli. It’s located in the center of La Spezia and offers amazing seafood dishes including seafood pasta, which is my favorite dish.

What to pack when traveling to Italy in the summer?

Because of the humidity, I highly recommend packing a hand fan, really good walking shoes and sandals, and flowy lightweight pants that are easy to pair with a variety of tops.

What’s public transportation like in Italy? Is there Uber in Italy?

Public transportation in Italy is great! Highspeed and region trains connect the entire country and our bus system is also great for getting around. Uber is not a thing in Italy but you can get a taxi in certain places. You can find Uber in Rome and Milan but it looks very different than Uber in the United States.

What is the best time of year to visit Italy?

The best months to visit Italy are June and September because you’ll have really nice weather and you can still swim but you’ll beat the big crowds and the heavy heat of July and August.

The coast of Italy as seen from the ocean

Do you have to wear a mask in Italy? Do you have to social distance in Italy?

Currently, you can do whatever you prefer and are comfortable with outside. However, masks are required when using public transportation, in restaurants before you sit down, and in shops. Those regulations might change for the summer and I’m pretty sure they will but we don’t know exactly what the rules will be in the summer. If you are concerned about your trip to Italy, I recommend purchasing travel protection and consulting the Centers for Disease Control for updated information.

Can I order milk alternatives in Italy? What milk alternatives do they have in Italy?

Yes, you can order milk alternatives in Italy. There is soy or “soia” in Italian. You might also be able to order ait, almond, or rice milk depending on the bar. However, you can find all these milk alternatives at the supermarket.

What are hidden gems in Italy I shouldn’t miss?

Italy is full of hidden gems and it depends a little bit on what you’re looking for whether something near the mountains or the sea. My favorite region that goes undiscovered a lot is Puglia.

Written by Bethany Petek, Operations Coordinator

If you’re looking for an effortless and unforgettable trip to Italy where you don’t have to plan a thing, join our Heart of Italy Trip and eat your way around the country with us.

If you’re traveling to Italy on your own and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our customized travel coaching and optional booking service.

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No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - who offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy.

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