Useful Tips

When to Go

Italy is at its best in spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November). During these seasons, the scenery is beautiful, the temperatures are pleasant and there are relatively few crowds. Try to avoid August, as this is the time that most Italians take their vacations, and many shops and businesses are closed as a result. The ski season generally lasts from December to late March; swimming is best between June and September; and July and September are the best months for walking in the Alps. The further south you go, the longer you can linger into November and December without feeling the pinch of winter. Italy's multitude of festivals and traditional events may be a factor in planning your visit; Easter, in particular, is celebrated fervently, and every second town has a festive Saint's day.


Service Charge & Tips

Service charges are included in your restaurant bill, so you are not expected to tip. It is common practice, however, to leave a small amount. In bars, Italians will usually leave any small change as a tip, but this is by no means obligatory. Be aware that prices in Italian bars double (sometimes even triple) if you sit down. Tipping taxi drivers is not common practice, but your hotel porter will expect a little something.


Greeting

It is considered very flattering to attempt a little Italian, so try 'buon giorno' (good day) if you feel linguistically inclined. On formal occasions, shaking hands is a well-understood greeting and is quite sufficient. Don't address someone by their first name unless you know them well, however, as this could be seen as rude.