What You Need to Know Before Your Solo Trip to Italy

Italy is a popular boot-shaped solo travel destination in the world. And for all the right reasons! From art treasures, high fashion, and spectacular landscapes to passionate people and top-class cuisine, Italy lures travellers year-round.

No matter what time you visit Italy, you are in for a treat. I love how every city in Italy feels like a new adventure. You can check my blogs on solo travel across Italian cities to curate a perfect Italian itinerary.

Things to do in Italy

Row in a Gondola during sunsets in Venice.
Take a tour of the iconic Vatican Museums.
Devour pizzas at its birthplace.
Go for a taste test of the finest wines in the Tuscan countryside.
Go boating inside the glowing cave, Blue Grotto.
Experience the beauty of Lake Como on a day trip.
Shop like a diva in Milan.
Hike the spectacular landscapes of Cinque Terre.
Get a dose of history in Rome.
Walk into secluded museums.
Schedule time to attend local shows.
Book a hydro massage for the ultimate relaxation.
Invest in a cooking class to learn Italian Cuisine 101.
Grab gelatos to treat the taste buds.
Explore Italy’s UNESCO heritage mountain group, the Dolomites.

Travel Expenses: What to Budget

Accommodation – Although hostels are comparatively cheaper than hotels in Italy, it still costs around $30 – $40 to get a bed in a dormitory based on the season and neighbourhood.
Food – When in Italy, eat like an Italian. There is no doubt you will have a gala time hogging on pizzas and pasta. And it doesn’t stop there! That’s why you need to budget your food. Breakfasts are cheaper than lunch and dinner in Italy, so you can expect to spend around $20 for food in a day without alcohol.
Transportation – Unless you are taking day trips in Italy, it won’t cost you much daily as Italian cities are walkable. Buses are the cheapest mode of transportation to travel between cities. Some major transfers cost $3 – $13. Train journeys can cost up to $10 – $30. And, daily transport cost in Italy is around $12 at max.

Recommended Daily Budget

Overall, as a budget traveller, you can easily survive on $60 – $70 per day. Meanwhile, for a mid-range traveller, it can cost up to $150 – $170 with fine dining experiences and private accommodations.

Proven and Tested Money-Saving Tricks!

Book flights in advance.
Select hostels in a cheaper neighbourhood.
Invest in a travel credit card or travel pass.
Skip guided tours in Italy.
Carry a water bottle and re-fill it on the go.
Walk as much as you can or opt for public transport.
Keep your eyes open to grab offers on booking activity tickets online.
Never tip at restaurants as they include coperto and servizio charges.
Instead of renting a car, renting a Vespa in Italy is cost-effective.
Use Uber over taxis wherever available.

In a Nutshell, What Awaits You in Italy?

Italy feels like home. And one lifetime is not enough to cover all Italy has in store for us. Of all, do you know the best part? Soaking in the Italian culture transforms you into a better person. It teaches us to always appreciate the good things in life.

Where else will you find such experiences? Italy is not limited to certain cities, renaissance architecture, quaint countrysides, coastlines, Alps, and ruins. It is a country with deep roots – Italy is a living museum. You must explore Italy at least once during your solo travel ventures.