Solo Travel In Italy – The Essential Guide

Hostelworld App / Solo Travel / Solo Travel In Italy

TLDR:

This guide to Solo Travel in Italy is focused on helping you navigate the beautiful country of Italy with ease and enjoyment, turning your solo trip into an unforgettable adventure.

Highlights

Solo travel in Italy offers a highly personalized and enriching experience with options for diverse activities, from fashion and history to culinary and wellness retreats.
Italy is a safe, easy-to-navigate country with a rich cultural heritage, ideal for solo travelers looking to explore its historic cities, stunning landscapes, and indulge in world-renowned cuisine.
Planning for solo travel in Italy includes choosing the right time to visit for good weather and prices, selecting comfortable accommodations, and utilizing various transport options to explore this beautiful country.

About Italy

Italy’s history dates back to the Etruscan civilization around 900 BCE, progressing through significant periods such as the Roman Republic, Roman Empire, and the Renaissance. Its unification in the 19th century and influential roles in the World Wars have contributed to Italy’s incredibly rich historical and cultural heritage today, making it a great destination for any solo traveller.

Before arriving in this stunning country, it’s good to know:

- The currency is the Euro
- The average daily cost for food and accommodation is €130
- The best times to visit are April to May or September to October to enjoy mild weather and avoid peak tourist seasons
- Italy is a safe and welcoming environment, offering a diverse range of experiences that appeal to all types of travellers.

Benefits of Solo Travelling Around Italy

Italy is notably secure and simple to navigate, making it a top choice for solo travel. It’s home to some of the world’s most famous Renaissance art, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts. Plus, if you plan ahead and make smart budgeting choices, Italy can be surprisingly affordable for solo travellers.

Joining a solo tour in Italy, such as those offered by Just You and G Adventures, is a great way to meet like-minded travellers. Apart from exploring the country’s rich history and culture, you’ll have the opportunity to form lasting friendships and have built-in photographers to capture the precious moments of your journey.

How to get to and from Italy

Italy boasts major international airports in Rome (Fiumicino), Milan (Malpensa), and Venice (Marco Polo). And for those flying in from Australia, Qantas provides direct flights to Italy, ensuring a smooth and convenient journey. Reserving your international flight to Italy and any specific tours or activities at least six months in advance will contribute to a superior travel experience. The average cost of a round-trip flight to Italy from the United States ranges from $500 to $1500, depending on the time of year, airline, and departure city, making it quite reasonable for most travellers.

Planning Your Solo Trip Around Italy

Planning your solo trip around Italy can leave you wondering where to start! To help you out, here are some important pieces of advice to take into consideration.

Researching Destinations and Attractions

From the iconic Colosseum in Rome to off-the-beaten-path destinations like Monopoli and Santa Severina, Italy offers a wealth of exciting tourist attractions and historical sites perfect for solo travellers. Before your trip, it’s a good idea to research these attractions and make a list of the ones that interest you the most.

Whether it’s immersing yourself in vibrant cultural events and festivals, or exploring stunning natural sights, having a clear idea of what you want to see and do will make your trip more fulfilling.

Choosing Accommodation

The type of accommodation you choose can greatly influence your travel experience. From hostels and hotels to Airbnb and agriturismo, Italy offers a variety of options for solo travellers. Some hostels, like Ostello Bello Colosseo and Relais Monti Hotel, even offer features specifically designed for solo travellers, such as private rooms, air conditioning, and options for female-only rooms.

Transportation Options

Italy offers a variety of transportation options for getting around, including trains, buses, and car rentals. Taking the train is the most popular and convenient way to travel, with high-speed services offered by companies like Trenitalia and ItaloTreno.

However, for exploring smaller towns or regions with limited public transport, renting a car can provide more flexibility.

Cultural Etiquette and Local Customs

Understanding and respecting the local customs and etiquette is crucial when travelling to a new country. In Italy, this means waiting until everyone is served before eating, covering shoulders in churches, and using formal titles when addressing older family members.

Knowing a few Italian phrases can also go a long way in making your trip more enjoyable and in connecting with locals.

Food and Dining

Italian cuisine is world-renowned and trying it is a must when visiting the country. Whether it’s Spaghetti Carbonara in Rome, Cacio e Pepe in Tuscany, or Cannoli in Sicily, there’s a wealth of delicious dishes to try.

When dining solo, it’s a good idea to call ahead and request a less conspicuous seat, which can make your dining experience more comfortable.

Budget Tips

If you plan ahead and make the right budgeting choices, Italy can be quite affordable for solo travellers. This can help you make the most of your trip without breaking the bank. Here are some ways to appreciate Italy without overspending:

Savour discounted drinks and buffet-style meals at local bars and cafes
Treat yourself to cost-effective focaccia or pizza slices from local bakeries
Look for reasonable accommodation costs in cities like Naples, Palermo, Sicily, Puglia, and Umbria

By following these tips, you can enjoy Italy without worrying about your budget.

Emergency Information

Keeping essential emergency information readily available can offer tranquillity and enhance your trip’s safety. In Italy, the emergency number is 112 and there are many reputable hospitals in major cities that provide a range of medical services. It’s also good to know some key phrases in Italian to use during an emergency.

Lastly, it’s a good idea to have travel insurance that covers health emergencies. Here are several options available:

CoverForYou Standard
Cedar Tree Classic Plus Single Trip
Admiral Gold
Coverwise Select Silver Plus
Puffin Gold Medical Single Trip

Itinerary Route Ideas For Solo Travel Around Italy

Creating an itinerary for your trip is one of the most exciting parts of travel planning. Whether you’re planning for 2 weeks, 1 month, or 2 months, having a clear itinerary can help you make the most of your time in Italy. In the subsequent parts, we will present proposed itineraries corresponding to each of these durations, from exploring the top destinations to uncovering hidden gems.

2 Weeks

For a two-week itinerary, consider starting your adventure in:

Venice
Verona
Bergamo
Milan
Pavia
Cinque Terre
Pisa
Florence

This route gives you a balance of historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and that famous European city life.

Remember, the beauty of solo travel is the freedom to modify your itinerary as you go along, allowing you to spend more time in places you love and move on from those that don’t resonate with you as much, especially for solo female travellers and others travelling alone.

1 Month

With a month at your disposal, you can take a deeper dive into Italy’s rich history and culture. Start with the must-visit cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, then venture off to the picturesque Tuscan countryside, the dramatic cliffs of the Cinque Terre, and the stunning Amalfi Coast. A month is a perfect time to truly visit Italy and experience all it has to offer.

This itinerary gives you ample time to immerse yourself in each location, truly experiencing the essence of Italy.

2 Months

For a two-month itinerary, you have the luxury of time to explore Italy in depth. Here is a suggested itinerary:

Explore the beautiful Italian Lakes for a week.
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Rome.
Venture south to Salerno for a delightful three-night stay.
Experience the charm of Palermo in Sicily for two nights.
Discover the enchanting canals and historic sites of Venice for two nights.
Enjoy a memorable stopover in Trento for one night.

Top Destinations for Solo Travellers in Italy

Italy is home to a wealth of destinations that are perfect for solo travellers. From the fashion capital of Milan to the historic city of Rome, the romantic canals of Venice, and the stunning landscapes of southern Italy, each city offers a unique experience.

In the subsequent parts, we will go into these cities in greater detail, highlighting the attractions and experiences that make each one a must-visit destination on your solo adventure.

Milan

As Italy’s fashion and financial capital, Milan is a city that’s always buzzing with energy. Apart from the iconic Duomo Milan, solo travellers can explore the vibrant Brera Art district and enjoy the city’s rich culture and numerous activities.

Some fantastic accommodation options for solo travellers in Milan include Milano Ostello and Hotel Glam Milano, which offer a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for meeting fellow travellers.

Rome

Rome, Italy’s capital, is a city that’s steeped in history and culture. From the Colosseum, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, to the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill, there’s plenty to explore. And who can forget the iconic Trevi Fountain? It’s a must-visit for any solo traveller, offering a slice of Rome’s rich history and tradition. Not to mention, Vatican City, an independent city-state and the spiritual center of the Catholic Church, is just a stone’s throw away.

Venice

Venice, known for its romantic canals and gondola rides, is a city that’s sure to captivate any solo traveller. The main waterway, Canal Grande, offers a unique experience of the city from its waters. Not only that, but the city is also home to traditional Venetian masks, which make for perfect keepsakes.

For the foodies, Dal Moro’s is a must-visit for some delicious takeaway pasta.

Getting Around Italy As A Solo Traveller

When it comes to getting around Italy as a solo traveller, you have a variety of options at your disposal. From trains and buses to car rentals, each mode of transport offers a unique way to experience the country.

In the subsequent parts, we will go into each of these options in greater detail.

Train

Italy’s extensive train network makes it easy to get around the country. Whether you’re travelling from Rome to Florence or Venice to Milan, the train is a convenient and efficient mode of transportation. Plus, with services operated by Trenitalia and ItaloTreno, you can get from city to city in no time.

When it comes to buying tickets, you can easily do so online or from automated ticket machines at train stations.

Bus

Buses offer another convenient and affordable way to travel around Italy. With companies like Flixbus and Baltour, you can easily reach your destination, whether it’s a major city or a small town. Plus, long-distance buses in Italy often offer facilities such as toilets, WiFi, and food and beverage options, making your journey comfortable.

Car rental

For those who prefer the freedom of driving, renting a car is a great option. This can be especially useful when exploring smaller towns or regions with limited public transport. You’ll need to be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver’s license, along with an International Driving Permit. And with companies like TravelPerk, Maggiore, and Europcar, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.

Accommodation Options for Solo Travellers in Italy

Choosing the right accommodation can significantly impact your travel experience. In Italy, you’ll find a wide range of options to suit your preferences and budget. Some popular options include:

Hostels
Hotels
Agriturismo (farm stays)
Bed and Breakfasts

There’s something for everyone.

Some hostels in Italy even cater specifically to solo travellers, offering private rooms, air conditioning, and options for female-only rooms. As for prices, they can range from €29–€46 per night for a hostel bed to €90–€170 for a private hotel room, with apartment rentals varying based on location.

How to make friends while solo travelling in Italy

One of the delights of solo travel is the chance to encounter new people and form friendships throughout the journey. In Italy, you can make use of digital platforms like Meetup.com, Facebook Events, and friend-making apps like Tinder and Bumble to connect with locals and other travellers.

Joining group activities like Vespa and bike tours in Tuscany can also be a great way to meet other travellers and make your trip more enjoyable.

Italy solo travel safety

Regarding safety, Italy is an excellent destination for solo travellers. With a bit of vigilance, you can easily navigate common scams and petty theft. If you do encounter aggressive behaviour, such as someone saying ‘Ciao Bella’ as they pass by, it’s best to ignore it and continue enjoying your trip.

However, it’s always good to stay aware and take standard safety measures for a worry-free experience. This includes being mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like train stations in Cinque Terre and night markets in Palermo. And of course, always have travel insurance that covers health emergencies.

Apps and Technology for Solo Travellers

Thanks to today’s technology, it’s easier than ever before for solo travellers to stay safe while travelling around Italy – or anywhere

Time to leave

Italy is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re exploring the Italian Riviera, taking a dip in Lake Maggiore, or immersing yourself in the local culture by joining a group tour, solo travel in Italy offers an enriching experience like no other. So, why not pack your bags and embark on a solo adventure in Italy? Trust us, it’ll be an experience you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Referenced: