Documents & Flight Commitments

Passport Validity: Please double-check your passport right away! The US recommends at least 6 months validity and requires a minimum of 3 months validity beyond your planned departure date. To ensure entry requirements have not changed, visit www.travel.state.gov.

Keep Backup Copies: Take a clear photo or scan of your passport and save it on your phone or cloud storage in case of loss while traveling.

Flight Dates: Please make sure to book your airline tickets for the exact dates previously agreed upon. Once dates are set, we begin locking in your accommodations and tours, making date changes very difficult.

Driving in Italy: If you plan on renting a car, you will need an International Driving Permit. You can easily obtain one through AAA (Automobile Association of America) before leaving the US.

Packing & Luggage Guidelines

Luggage Policy: We strictly suggest taking no more than one checked bag per person (and avoid oversized suitcases).

Keep Dimensions in Mind: Cars, vans, and train luggage racks in Europe are significantly smaller than what you are used to in the USA. A standard checked bag should measure no more than 62 linear inches (length + width + height). You may incur an extra charge if your luggage does not fit in transport vehicles.

Comfortable Footwear: Make sure to pack comfortable walking shoes. Italian cities feature historic cobblestones, steps, and long walks—you will be walking a lot!

Motion Sickness Prep: Many roads in Italy (especially along the Amalfi Coast and Tuscan hills) are narrow and winding. If you are prone to motion sickness, bring your preferred medication along.

Money, Tipping & Local Fees

Hotel City Taxes: Guests are responsible for paying the local city tax directly at each hotel check-out. This tax ranges from €2 to €10 per person, per day, depending on the city and hotel rating.

Tipping Guidelines: While tipping is not strictly mandatory in Italy, it is deeply appreciated for exceptional service. Here is a helpful guide:

• Taxi Drivers: Round up or leave €2.
• Transfers & Drivers: €10 – €20 for private transfers.
• Tour Guides: €20 – €50 for half-day tours; €50 – €100 for full-day tours.
• Restaurants: Unlike the US, a service charge (coperto) is usually added to the bill. If you enjoyed your meal and service, a 10% gratuity is generous and sufficient.
• Café Seating Fees: Before sitting down at a café or gelateria, check if there is an extra charge for table service versus standing at the bar.
•  

Tours, Dress Codes & Beat the Heat

Vatican & Church Dress Code: Strict dress codes apply at religious sites. Men must wear pants. Women’s skirts or dresses must extend past knee length. Shoulders must be covered for everyone, and no flip-flops are permitted.

Tour Duration & Meals: Half-day tours last 3 to 5 hours; full-day tours last 6 to 8 hours. Sometimes, tours are scheduled right after a transfer between cities. If you get hungry, grab a quick sandwich (panino) or slice of pizza on the go—please do not sit down for a full restaurant meal during tour hours, as guides run on tight, scheduled itineraries.

Summer Heat & Hydration: Italy gets very hot in the summer! A great strategy is to venture out early in the morning, rest during peak early-afternoon heat, and head back out in the cooler evening.

Water & Air Conditioning: Public fountains (nasoni) in major Italian cities offer fresh, safe drinking water to refill your bottle. Also, note that European air conditioning is designed to cool gently, so it will feel milder than American AC.

Italian Coffee Culture & Mindset

Coffee Etiquette 101: Italians drink espresso (caffè normale), typically enjoyed standing at the bar counter. You will rarely find large “American-style” coffee in to-go cups.

• Golden Rule: No cappuccinos after 11:30 AM (they are strictly for breakfast!).
• Pro Tip: If you order a “double espresso,” you may just get two separate cups of coffee. If you want a milder, longer drink, order a caffè lungo.

Pack Your Patience: Italy is one of the most beloved destinations in the world, and popular sites can be crowded. Embrace the slower, gentler rhythm, savor every moment, and enjoy the beauty of the experience!