Italy : Safety by City
For many reasons, Italy’s boot-shaped peninsula extending into the Mediterranean Sea needs little introduction.
Bordered by France, Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia and with a history spanning over 3,000 years, it was home to the Roman Empire, the Renaissance, and countless cultural movements that shaped Western civilization.
Its ancient ruins, medieval towns, and artistic masterpieces attract 60 million visitors every year.
Italy is one of the world’s top travel destinations.
People come for its world-famous cities—Rome for its ancient ruins, Florence for Renaissance art, Venice for its canals, and Milan for fashion.
The country’s diverse landscapes range from the stunning Amalfi Coast and rolling Tuscan hills to the Dolomites’ dramatic peaks and Sicily’s volcanic terrain.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, cuisine, or luxury, Italy has something for everyone, making it one of the most beloved destinations on the planet.
And that’s despite some of the safety risks that reside even near the most sacred and historic places on Earth.
Let’s look at how to stay safe while exploring this expansive country filled with attractions.
Warnings & Dangers in Italy
OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
Stay sharp in busy tourist areas. The medium risk is due to historical crime trends but also recent upticks in major tourist spots. You can't afford to get distracted in Italy, or someone might be waiting to take advantage of you.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
Public transport is reliable but a prime hunting ground for pickpockets. This is a medium risk and a high risk during busy times of the year. Buses, metro stations, and trains—especially in Rome and Milan—are where you’ll get targeted. Taxis are safe if you use official ones, but some drivers try to overcharge tourists. Uber exists but is mostly just high-end black cars.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
The risk here is so high that if you're in a crowd, assume there’s a pickpocket nearby. They love metros, markets, and major sights like the Colosseum. The trick? They work in teams—one distracts, the other grabs. Keep bags zipped, hands on your phone, and don’t leave your stuff unattended at restaurants.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
Italy gets the occasional earthquake, and Venice floods regularly. If you're visiting in summer, wildfires in the south can disrupt travel. The good news? Major cities aren’t usually affected. Just check local weather updates, especially if you’re headed to rural areas or the mountains.
MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
This is a medium to high risk, as recent reports (as of 2025) were creating headlines of "100 Muggings a Day" in Rome. The risk includes pickpocket attempts where the victim fights back, leading to a violent mugging or assault.
TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
Italy hasn’t seen major attacks recently, but like any big European destination, security is tight in places like train stations and tourist sites. In fact, terrorism is the main reason countries like the U.S. elevated the travel advisory for Italy. Because of that, we have to give this a medium risk. It’s more of a "stay aware" situation than something you can avoid. If you see something off, report it, and stay away from large demonstrations.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
Street scams are a dime a dozen. People will try to “give” you a bracelet and then demand payment. Fake petitions, overpriced taxis, and sketchy ATMs are common, too. Rule of thumb: if someone approaches you out of nowhere, they probably want something. Politely (but firmly) say no and walk away.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Women need to use extra precautions due to the risk of crime, robbery, violence, and sexual assaults. The Italian government takes sexual assaults or stalking seriously. You can learn more about the website 1522.eu. It's a program that offers emergency phone help for victims of gender-based violence. Don't let your guard down, and don't go to a private place with someone you just met. Never accept a drink from a stranger.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
Italy’s tap water is safe everywhere, and in cities, it’s great. Public fountains marked "acqua potabile" mean drinkable water—bring a reusable bottle to save money. Some rural areas prefer bottled water due to taste, but it's not a safety issue.
Safest Places to Visit in Italy
The Italian Ministry of Tourism operates the website “www.italia.it,” which is the official tourism site.
Use the Information and Plan Your Trip headers for the most practical advice.
From beaches to the mountains to the countryside to urban centers, Italy is overflowing with things to do.
The tourism website breaks the country down into 21 regions.
Here’s a summary of each.
Abruzzo
A rugged gem known for its mountains, Abruzzo offers skiing in the Apennines, stunning national parks, and medieval villages.
The coastline has charming seaside towns like Vasto, while inland, you’ll find the incredible Rocca Calascio castle.
Wine lovers can enjoy Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, and outdoor enthusiasts can hike the trails of Gran Sasso National Park.
Aosta Valley
Italy’s smallest region, Aosta Valley, is paradise for mountain lovers.
Home to Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn, it’s a hotspot for skiing, hiking, and alpine scenery.
Visit ancient Roman ruins in Aosta, explore medieval castles, and unwind in thermal spas.
In winter, hit the slopes at Courmayeur or Cervinia.
Basilicata
Basilicata is most famous for Matera, a UNESCO-listed city of cave dwellings.
Beyond that, explore Pollino National Park’s dramatic landscapes or hit the Tyrrhenian coast at Maratea.
The region is less touristy, making it perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path Italian experience with medieval villages and delicious rustic cuisine.
Calabria
The toe of Italy’s boot, Calabria has stunning beaches, rugged mountains, and ancient Greek ruins.
Tropea is the highlight, with its dramatic cliffside views and turquoise waters.
Visit Scilla for its picturesque fishing village charm or explore the wild Aspromonte National Park.
Calabria is also famous for spicy ‘nduja and bergamot.
Campania
Home to Naples, the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and Capri, Campania is packed with must-see spots.
Eat the best pizza in the world in Naples, hike Mount Vesuvius, or take a boat to the stunning island of Capri.
The Amalfi Coast offers jaw-dropping coastal views, charming villages, and incredible seafood.
Emilia Romagna
Food lovers, this is your place—home to Parma ham, balsamic vinegar, and fresh pasta.
Bologna is famous for its historic porticoes and delicious ragù, while Modena attracts car enthusiasts with Ferrari and Lamborghini museums.
Rimini has lively beaches, and Ravenna boasts stunning Byzantine mosaics.
Friuli Venezia Giulia
A lesser-known region with alpine landscapes, beautiful beaches, and a mix of Italian, Slovenian, and Austrian influences.
Trieste is a cultural hub with a stunning seafront, while Udine has charming piazzas and great wine.
Visit the Dolomite foothills for skiing or explore the vineyards of the Collio wine region.
Lazio
Rome dominates Lazio, but there’s more to explore.
The region has beautiful hill towns like Civita di Bagnoregio and ancient ruins at Ostia Antica.
Tivoli’s Villa d’Este and Villa Adriana showcase Renaissance beauty.
Lazio also has beaches, lakes like Bracciano, and rich culinary traditions beyond the capital’s famous pasta dishes.
Liguria
The Italian Riviera at its finest.
Cinque Terre’s colorful cliffside villages are the highlight, but don’t miss Portofino’s luxe charm, Sanremo’s beaches, or Genoa’s underrated historic center.
Pesto originated here, so be sure to try trofie pasta with fresh basil sauce.
The coastline is perfect for hiking and boat trips.
Lombardy
Italy’s economic powerhouse, Lombardy is home to Milan’s fashion, Lake Como’s glamorous villas, and Bergamo’s medieval beauty.
The lakes—Maggiore, Garda, and Iseo—offer incredible scenery, while the Alps provide top-tier skiing.
The region also boasts UNESCO-listed sites like Mantua and Cremona, making it a great mix of culture and nature.
Marche
A quieter alternative to Tuscany, Marche offers stunning countryside, seaside resorts, and historic towns.
Urbino is a Renaissance gem, while Ascoli Piceno’s travertine piazzas are breathtaking.
The Conero Riviera has beautiful beaches, and the Frasassi Caves are some of Europe’s most impressive underground formations.
Molise
Italy’s most underrated region, Molise has ancient Samnite ruins, unspoiled beaches, and picturesque mountain villages.
Campobasso and Isernia showcase medieval history, while Termoli is a charming seaside escape.
The region is also known for truffle hunting and traditional cheese-making, making it a great spot for slow travelers.
Piedmont
Wine, truffles, and Alpine landscapes define Piedmont.
Turin blends grand architecture with a rich café culture, while the Langhe region is a paradise for Barolo wine lovers.
In winter, head to the Alps for skiing in Sestriere.
Don’t miss the royal palaces and chocolate-filled cafés that make this region elegant yet cozy.
Puglia
Famous for its whitewashed towns and stunning coastline, Puglia has it all—Alberobello’s trulli houses, Lecce’s baroque beauty, and Polignano a Mare’s cliffside views.
The beaches are among Italy’s best, and the food is simple but incredible, from orecchiette pasta to fresh burrata cheese.
Sardinia
Sardinia has some of Europe’s best beaches, with Caribbean-like waters at Costa Smeralda and La Pelosa.
Inland, the rugged mountains and ancient Nuragic ruins show a different side of the island.
Cagliari’s historic district and Alghero’s Catalan influence make Sardinia culturally unique beyond its jaw-dropping coastline.
Sicily
A mix of Greek, Arab, and Norman influences, Sicily is packed with history, food, and nature.
Palermo’s street markets, Mount Etna’s volcanic landscapes, and Taormina’s stunning Greek theater make it a fascinating destination.
Don’t skip the Valley of the Temples or the island’s world-famous cannoli.
South Tyrol
A mix of Italian and Austrian culture, South Tyrol is all about dramatic alpine landscapes and charming mountain towns.
Bolzano and Merano offer a blend of Mediterranean and alpine vibes, while the Dolomites provide world-class skiing and hiking.
The region is also famous for its apple orchards and wine.
Trentino
Nestled in the Dolomites, Trentino is perfect for outdoor lovers.
Skiing, hiking, and lake adventures define this region, with Lake Garda’s northern shores offering windsurfing and mountain views.
Trento, the capital, has Renaissance architecture and great local cuisine.
It’s a great escape for nature enthusiasts year-round.
Tuscany
One of Italy’s most famous regions, Tuscany is all rolling vineyards, historic cities, and Renaissance art.
Florence, Siena, and Pisa are cultural powerhouses, while the Val d’Orcia offers postcard-perfect landscapes.
Chianti wine, hilltop villages, and thermal spas make Tuscany a dream for slow travelers and food lovers.
Umbria
Often called the “green heart of Italy,” Umbria is a quieter, more rustic alternative to Tuscany.
Assisi is a major pilgrimage site, Perugia offers medieval charm, and the rolling hills are dotted with vineyards and olive groves.
The region’s black truffles and hearty cuisine make it a foodie haven.
Veneto
Venice may be the star, but Veneto has so much more—Verona’s romantic charm, the Prosecco wine region, and the stunning Dolomite mountains.
Padua and Vicenza offer great day trips, while Lake Garda is a favorite for outdoor lovers.
In winter, hit the slopes in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Places to Avoid in Italy
The challenging part about this section of the article is that the riskiest places tend to be some of the most popular.
Pisa and Rome, for example, faced concerning crime rates in 2024 and that trend was continuing during the Holy Year of 2025 across Italy.
“This summer we had gangs of South Americans targeting our clients, at both inside and outside tables,” Massimiliano Marucci, a restaurant owner, told The Telegraph.
“They go anywhere where they find crowds or chaos.”
Many tourists take the train to get around Italy, but the Metro line is also one of the major pickpocketing and mugging spots.
The top locations were St. Peter’s Square and the Vatican area.
Police started doing random stops in 2024, leading to nearly 700 arrests (and counting).
At the peak, Rome was seeing up to 100 muggings a day.
To be honest, I’ve seen government agencies give elevated warning risks about this type of crime.
It’s worth checking with your embassy to see if the advisory level has been raised or lowered.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Italy
- Italy has several police forces. The Carabinieri (112) handle serious crimes, while the Polizia di Stato (113) covers general law enforcement. Some cities have tourist police, often speaking English. In an emergency, dial 112 for all services, including police, fire, and medical help.
- Travelers can sign up for alerts from their embassy (like the U.S. STEP program) and check Italy’s Civil Protection Department for updates on weather, strikes, and natural disasters. Apps like Alert Italia and Google’s SOS feature can also provide real-time warnings.
- Tourists can drive in Italy, but you must have an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your home country’s license. Rental car companies often won’t ask for it, but the police will, and fines for not having one are steep.
- If police stop you for a traffic violation, you may have to pay the fine on the spot in cash. If you can’t, they can confiscate your car.
- Fishing in Italy often requires a permit, even for tourists. Boating rules vary, especially in protected areas. If you’re renting a boat, check local regulations—some zones ban motorized boats or require special licenses.
- Italy’s beaches use a flag system for water safety: Red means no swimming (dangerous conditions), yellow means caution (strong currents), and green means safe. Pay attention—ignoring a red flag can lead to fines or even lifeguards refusing to help if you get into trouble.
- That cheap “designer” bag from a street vendor? If it’s fake, you could be fined up to €7,000 or even detained. Italy has strict anti-counterfeiting laws, and undercover police sometimes target buyers, not just sellers. Stick to legitimate shops.
- Smog can be an issue in cities like Milan and Turin, especially in winter. Air quality apps like Plume Labs or IQAir help track pollution levels. Trash can also pile up in some cities, leading to noxious fumes. Check the European Environment Agency for more information.
- If you need to bring prescription medication with you, check the Italian Ministry of Health’s website. There are specific rules about types of drugs, drug containers, and drug limits that every traveler needs to know. Avoid using pillboxes and keep medication in the original containers from the pharmacy.
- Many places won’t accept cards for purchases under €10 due to transaction fees. Always carry a little cash for coffee, small shops, or public restrooms. ATMs are common, but avoid standalone ones in tourist areas—they charge high fees.
So... How Safe Is Italy Really?
There’s a bit of a mixed bag of travel advisories for Italy.
Most governments, like the U.S. and the U.K., issue advisory levels from one to four, with one being the lowest and four being synonymous with “Avoid All Travel.”
As it pertains to Italy, the U.S. and Canada put Italy at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution/Exercise a High Degree of Caution.
However, the Australian government sees no reason to elevate the advisory and has Italy at Level 1: Exercise Normal Safety Precautions.
The United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FDCO) doesn’t offer a warning level but also doesn’t advise against traveling there.
By and large, the UK’s advice is the same as for any other country with a low risk.
While the elevated-risk countries claim there’s a risk of terrorism causing the increased level, the UK only goes as far as to say, “Terrorist attacks in Italy cannot be ruled out.”
It’s worth checking recent headlines before you plan a trip to Italy.
For example, in early 2025, the city of Pisa set up “red zones” due to skyrocketing crime rates.
As noted earlier, Rome is seeing a surge in muggings.
“Now we are receiving between 80 and 100 reports a day of muggings, thefts, and pickpocketing in the bars and restaurants of central Rome,’’ said Claudio Pica, who heads Fiepet Confesercenti, an association representing thousands of eateries.
Use extra caution when getting off and on trains, as that’s where criminals lie in wait looking to scam people or steal items.
Will the crime concerns get better or worse?
Time will tell, but you can’t afford to say uninformed.
How Does Italy Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Italy | 77 |
| Morocco | 54 |
| Denmark | 94 |
| Poland | 84 |
| Lithuania | 79 |
| Belgium | 70 |
| Iceland | 95 |
| Ireland | 83 |
| Serbia | 77 |
Useful Information
Visas
When the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) goes into effect in (expected) mid-2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the U.S. and Canada, must apply online for a €7 pre-travel authorization valid for three years to enter Italy and other Schengen countries. Your passport must be valid for at least three months past departure.
Currency
The euro is the only currency that works in Italy. Skip airport exchanges—they charge high fees. ATMs (preferably inside banks) offer the best rates, but use a travel-friendly debit card to avoid extra withdrawal fees.
Weather
Italy’s climate varies. Summers are hot, especially in Rome and the south. Spring and fall are ideal for mild temperatures and smaller crowds. Winter brings snow to the Alps and rainy, chilly days elsewhere. Always check the forecast—Venice floods and Sicily’s summer heat can be brutal.
Airports
Rome (FCO) and Milan (MXP) handle most long-haul flights. Venice (VCE), Florence (FLR), and Naples (NAP) are good for regional connections. Budget airlines often fly to smaller airports like Bergamo (BGY) or Ciampino (CIA), so double-check locations before booking. Train connections from airports are generally reliable.
Travel Insurance
At a minimum, get medical evacuation coverage—it’s not expensive and could save you a fortune if you need to be flown home for treatment. You'll want protection against delays, cancelations, and theft, too.
Italy Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 12 | 13 | 16 | 20 | 24 | 29 | 31 | 31 | 27 | 22 | 16 | 12 |
| Low °C | 3 | 4 | 6 | 10 | 13 | 17 | 20 | 20 | 17 | 13 | 6 | 3 |
| High °F | 54 | 55 | 61 | 68 | 75 | 84 | 88 | 88 | 81 | 72 | 61 | 54 |
| Low °F | 37 | 39 | 43 | 50 | 55 | 63 | 68 | 68 | 63 | 55 | 43 | 37 |
Italy - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Bari | 74 |
| Bologna | 56 |
| Cagliari | 64 |
| Catania | 71 |
| Florence | 70 |
| Genoa | 54 |
| Milan | 66 |
| Naples | 66 |
| Palermo | 58 |
| Perugia | 60 |
| Pisa | 61 |
| Rimini | 62 |
| Rome | 64 |
| Sorrento | 60 |
| Turin | 42 |
| Vatican City | 72 |
| Venice | 74 |
| Verona | 65 |
Taxis WILL try to cheat you
The site needs to be updated regarding taxi scams. I visited in 2017 and went to Florence, Rome, Naples and Sorrento. Out of about 20 taxis I took, only about 2 were honest. The vast majority tried to cheat me either by overcharging; speeding away without giving change; offering insufficient change; or taking an excessively long route to my destination. The drivers were never aggressive but I had to call the police twice – I always got my money before the police showed up.
If you use a taxi in an Italian city, expect to be cheated. Insist on a meter, establish the cost before setting off, and pay while you are still inside the taxi so the driver cannot speed away. When you end up getting cheated, make efforts to call the police and you will get your money.
“It is best to stay alert and aware of your surroundings in Italy, since its neighbors, France and Belgium, have been victims of terrorist attacks.” BELGIUM?? NEIGHBOR OF ITALY?? LOOK AT THE MAP, MAN!
Italy safe country
Who wrote this article has never been in Italy.
This is a safe country 100%
as in all the countries of the world it is good not to leave bags unattended (not the Italians to steal)
Not totally agree
Italy is not so safe. Rapes in Milan and Rome are getting quite common, and recently near Como there was an armed robbery in a house with family inside.
Not safe like other countries.
100% of security in Italy, is not fair. Or you are in other century or perhaps an italian.
Great country, very historic
My fiance and I went to Italy recently and both really loved it. It is one of the most beautiful places and culturally rich countries we have been to in some time. We are already planning to go back. I never once felt uneasy or unsafe. I loved the food too!
Italy is not a safe country
Ur dumb Syrian dude
Are u Syrian ur dumb
YOU ARE A HIGHLY IRRESPONSIBLE AND TOTALLY UNRELIABLE BUNCH OF IDIOTS
HOW DARE YOU BE SO PATHETIC AND IRRESPONSIBLE ??
What? Who is irresponsible?
Fantastic country
I love southern italy better climate lovely people a great atmosphere. I have been 3x in 18 months .when the covid is under control I would reccomend going .serrento is a beautiful place. God bless italy now!
SOUTH ITALY = MAFIA
If you haven’t already realised no hate but SOUTH ITALY = MAFIA. I have heard that north Italy is definitely more safe, like Milan and places.
You heard it wrong
@Nick WIlson
“north Italy is definitely more safe”
Not really. Just take a trip to the Duomo or in Venice and tell me.
Italians are too busy to acknowledge the crime ongoing in OUR country due to ITALIANS and the people of other countries, which prospers thanks to ITALIANS.
The mafia isn’t going to bother with tourists. Been to southern Italy many times and it’s totally safe, beautiful and less expensive than the north. The people are warm and friendly.
-
Mafia is hidden to tourists
corona thats all I have to say
well dont go there unless you want corona especially in the northern parts of Italy
Agreed. The Southern part of Italy, where its nice and warm -Palermo, Sicily, no problems, no Corona.
I love that country, very beautiful, delicious food, a lot of places to vistit. And I felt safe there
Compare to other countries its safe
When in Italy don’t go near other foreigners stick staying with Italians.
Not safe
I visited Italy with my family in 2004 and we were fearful of our safety, especially after 6pm. We witnessed some fights in restaurants and groups of people were hurt.
Fear
maybe you are just a fearful person
Don't get scammed
In 2018 my family and friends went to Italy to enjoy the history they have.
Very beautiful place to visit never felt unsafe where we were but had a bad experience with two taxi drivers that we were taking after visiting the Trevi fountain. We were looking for a taxi out on the street near the fountain, so half of us went on one taxi and the other half in the other taxi which was parked right behind the first one we took.
We asked how much would they charge to go to the hotel that was no more than 15 minutes away in the car. The taxi driver said $20 per taxi. We agreed. What was strange to me is he was asking questions about how long we had been there and from where did we come.
It seemed kind of odd since they hardly talk. Well once we got to the hotel I reached into my wallet and got the $20 Euros my wife had given me, so as I was about to leave the taxi I handed the $20 to the driver plus tip and as I started to turn and walk out the driver said, excuse me you gave me a $10 so in my mind, I swear I gave him a $20, but what I did notice as I turned as he did a quick hand movement but did not think much of it. I said hold on went to the back taxi to ask my wife what she had given me and she said hold on.
So I did. She was having the same issue but didn’t know till I asked her for another $20 and I came back paid the driver again, and as soon as I paid they rush off. We talk about it and find out she had gone through the same issue. We both got scammed by two white taxis waiting by the streets near Trevi fountains.
It’s recommended if you are getting a taxi to go and ask in a restaurant or store to call for one so you won’t be scammed as we did. Hope this helps I usually don’t write comments, but hope it helps anyone traveling to Italy. One more thing. Before paying drivers to count out the money in front of them and your family or friends.
A 10 stars-country with so much to visit and explore!
Italy is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, home of many art masterpieces, wonderful landscapes and a big piece of world history. It’s a place where you can find pretty much anything and everything you’d ever want to see, visit or experience. Italy has it all. Is it a super safe place? No, because of its many tourists, this of course attracts a lot of pickpockets and thieves so you need to be careful at all times.
You risk getting your goods stolen on the street even in day time (they go for your phones or anything they can get in a hurry). You need to pay attention to your surroundings and to shady people approaching you for sweet deals which are scams or just a diversion so someone else can steal from you (your watch, wallet, phone, bags, etc). Be very careful in crowded places where pickpockets like to hang out as it’s harder to feel when someone has their hands in your pockets.
As for what to visit, where do I even start? I have been to Italy 8 or 9 times already and I had the chance to visit most of the big attractions but I would need years to visit everything I find interesting and exciting in this country. I saw the imposing Colosseum (even now after all this time) and took a hundred pictures outside it and in it. It’s amazing how well this has stood the test of time.
Then how about the Florence Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore. Such an exquisite cathedral, that makes you feel like you are in another time and age. The dome is one of the most beautiful I’ve seen, ever. Then there’s Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, the leaning tower of Pisa, Lake Como (how beautiful this place is, such serenity can be found here), the Amalfi coast, Cinque Terre, Vatican City, St. Mark’s Basilica, the Pantheon. And the list can go on and on and on. Like I said, you’d need years to explore everything Italy has to offer.
Beware pickpockets
We were at a train station in Pisa and as we were getting on the train some people getting off assisted us with our bags. Or so we thought.
The three women robbed us while they were helping us! Very light-fingered as we didn’t feel a thing! We reported our loss and we were reunited with some of our possessions including a passport and bank cards but we lost a phone and cash. We have learned to be wary of a helping hand… and that losing a phone is losing access to anything that requires 2-step verification so next time passport, phone etc. will be kept in a money belt.
Apart from that, we enjoyed our trip.
Italy should be experienced
Looking for good pasta and gelato? Italy is the place, Rome is overrated in my opinion but Milan is great!
Very bad people in a countrywho is helping them to survive.
Being at Milan, last June, I need to park my car in center area to pick up keys from apartment. Because Caos that day, I was directed to Olmetto Garage at Via Olmetto. I was received by a latinamerican male and a woman. He order me to let car keys with him, not allowing to park by myself. I don’t like that and and didn’t like that person but I was in a hurry. I took 2 carry on with me and let in trunk 2 more luggages. As soon as possible I returned to garage. My car was drived by one of them and stop at entrance. Five minutes later I parked at other place and took a look at trunk. Both laggges broken, both locks broken and al content open and in disorder. They were looking for values not capable of tracing. They in their condition of refugees or inmigrants are not working, just robbing your goods. This was the only problem of that issue, driving in Svizzera, Osterreich, Germany, Spain and France.
Venice
I traveled to Italy a long time ago, early 80s and I was a preteen. We stayed in Venice for three days and visited Florence for a day trip. This was a big trip – we went to several EU countries. My experience was that I found everything to be inflated pricewise. My can of coke was $5 (converted from Lire). I asked for ice. The waiter came back five minutes later with one ice cube. Maybe that’s why my soda was expensive. Or it might have been because I was sitting in the Plaza in Venice? Also, we bought two coral necklaces on the Plaza from a vender. (I still have them btw and never wore them) I forget how much we spent but recall my mom saying it was a lot. Years later I talked with someone who said I was supposed to haggle for a better price. Well I’m an American. You say its a certain price, I pay that price. So we paid more for things because we didn’t understand cultural differences. Also, I ordered pepperoni pizza and it was disappointing. Our hotel had no ac. This was May and it was hot. We had just stayed at the Intercontinental Hotel in Zurich so I was expecting better I suppose. And the shower situation was confusing. Turns out I was supposed to take a bath the way things were set up. I didn’t hate my visit to Italy but it wasn’t as, how should I say, ‘comfortable’ as the other places we went to.
Better than before
Not as bad as it used to be